The present invention relates to cavity wall insulation and in particular to cavity wall insulation structures for placing between an inner skin and an outer skin of a cavity wall.

Many buildings are constructed using cavity walls. Cavity walls comprise an inner skin and an outer skin, typically constructed from masonry such as bricks, concrete blocks or timber, separated by a hollow space or cavity. The inner skin forms the interior of the building and the outer skin forms the outside of the building. Typically, in the United Kingdom (UK) the hollow space or cavity between the inner skin and the outer skin of the cavity wall is about 100mm. The inner skin and outer skin of the cavity wall are typically tied together with walls ties which are positioned at spaced intervals and span the hollow space or cavity.

It is known to fill the hollow space or cavity of such cavity walls with an insulating material in order to improve the thermal insulation thereof. For example, the hollow space or may be filled or part filled with fibreglass or foam sheets, such as polyisocyanurate, polyurethane or phenolic foam sheets. However, there are problems with known insulation systems.

It is an object of aspects of the present invention to provide one or more solutions to one of the above mentioned or other problems.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a cavity wall insulation structure for inserting between an inner skin and an outer skin of a cavity wall, the cavity wall insulation structure comprising; a frame having a first surface, and

at least one channel on the first surface of said frame, wherein, in use, the at least one channel is operable to be arranged adjacent to the outer skin of the cavity wall to thereby define a void operable to allow air to flow therethrough, and wherein the frame is formed from a semi-rigid material.

The frame is formed from a semi-rigid material. Suitable examples of semi-rigid materials include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: plastics, such as polyethylene; polypropylene; polyethylene terephthalate; or combinations thereof. Suitably, the frame may be formed from polyethylene. Advantageously, the use of a semi-rigid material enables the frame to be easily inserted between the inner skin and the outer skin of a cavity wall such that a tight fit therein can be formed. Advantageously, the use of a semi-rigid material enables the frame to be easily inserted between the inner skin and the outer skin of a cavity wall without the need for further fixing means.

In certain embodiments, the frame may be formed from a plastic which comprises an antioxidant. Suitable examples of antioxidants include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: hydrogen-donating antioxidants, such as hindered phenols and secondary aromatic amines; benzofuranones; phosphites; thioethers; carbon antioxidants; proprietary antioxidants; and combinations thereof. Advantageously, the use of plastic comprising an antioxidant may delay the degradation of the frame such that it has improved longevity.

In certain embodiments, the frame may be formed from a material which is substantially resistant to reaction with building materials such as, for example, cement mortar. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that resistance to building materials such as, for example, cement mortar may be provided inherently by the material from which the frame is formed, may be provided in the form of an additional cover layer or may be provided by a combination thereof. Advantageously, the use of materials which are substantially resistant to reaction with building materials such as, for example, cement mortar may delay the degradation of the frame such that it has improved longevity. Advantageously, the use of materials which are resistant to reaction with building materials such as, for example, cement mortar may make the frame simpler to install because, for example, a builder may not need to ensure that said building materials do not come into contact with the frame.

The frame has a first surface. The first surface may be any suitable shape. For example, the first surface may be substantially square or substantially rectangular in shape. Suitably, the first surface may be substantially rectangular in shape.

The first surface may have any suitable form. Suitable forms include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: one or more substantially parallel struts; a hexagonal grid; a cartesian grid; a rectangular grid; or combinations thereof. Suitably, the first surface may be a hexagonal grid.

The frame may be any suitable size. The frame may be of any suitable width and length. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the frame may be of a size suitable to fit between the wall ties which tie together the inner skin and outer skin of a cavity wall. In certain embodiments, the frame may have a width of about 1 ,000mm, suitably about 800mm, such as about 600mm or even about 450mm. In certain embodiments, the length of the frame may be about 2,000mm, suitably about 1 ,500mm, such as about 1 ,200mm, or even about 900mm. In certain embodiments, the frame may have a width x length of about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm. Suitably, the frame may have a width x length of about 450mm x 1 ,200mm.

For the avoidance of doubt, the term "width" as used herein, unless specified otherwise, refers to the shortest dimension of the face, i.e. the first surface, of the frame which, in use, runs substantially vertically. For the avoidance of doubt, the term "length" as used herein, unless specified otherwise, refers to the longest dimension of the face, i.e. the first surface, of the frame which, in use, runs substantially horizontally. However, it will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the width and length of the frame may be equal.

The frame may be of any suitable depth. In certain embodiments, the frame may have a depth from about 20mm to 150mm, suitably from about 30mm to 120mm, such as from 50mm to 100mm, or even from about 50mm to 80mm. In certain embodiments, the frame may be about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 20mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 20mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 20mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 20mm. Suitably, the frame may be 450mm x 1 ,200mm x 20mm. In certain embodiments, the frame may be about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 30mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 30mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 30mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 30mm. Suitably, the frame may be 450mm x 1 ,200mm x 30mm. In certain embodiments, the frame may be about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 50mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 50mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 50mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 50mm. Suitably, the frame may be 450mm x 1 ,200mm x 50mm. In certain embodiments, the frame may be about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 80mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 80mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 80mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 80mm. Suitably, the frame may be 450mm x 1 ,200mm x 80mm. In certain embodiments, the frame may be about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 90mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 90mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 90mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 90mm. Suitably, the frame may be 450mm x 1 ,200mm x 90mm. In certain embodiments, the frame may be about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 100mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 100mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 100mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 100mm. Suitably, the frame may be 450mm x 1 ,200mm x 100mm.

In certain embodiments, the frame may be cut to size after manufacture. The cavity wall insulation structure may be any suitable size. The cavity wall insulation structure may be of any suitable width and length. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the cavity wall insulation structure may be of a size suitable to fit between the wall ties which tie together the inner skin and outer skin of a cavity wall. In certain embodiments, the cavity wall insulation structure may have a width of about 1 ,000mm, suitably about 800mm, such as about 600mm or even about 450mm. In certain embodiments, the length of the cavity wall insulation structure may be about 2,000mm, suitably about 1 ,500mm, such as about 1 ,200mm, or even about 900mm. In certain embodiments, the cavity wall insulation structure may have a width x length of about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm. Suitably, the cavity wall insulation structure may have a width x length of about 450mm x 1 ,200mm.

The cavity wall insulation structure may be of any suitable depth. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the cavity wall insulation structure may be of a depth that is substantially equivalent to the size of the hollow space or cavity between the inner skin and outer skin of a cavity wall. In certain embodiments, the cavity wall insulation structure may have a depth from about 50mm to 200mm, suitably from about 75mm to 200mm, such as from 90mm to 150mm, or even from 90mm to 120mm. Suitably, the cavity wall insulation structure may have a depth of about 100mm.

In certain embodiments, the cavity wall insulation structure may be about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 50mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 50mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 50mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 50mm. Suitably, the cavity wall insulation structure may be 450mm x 1 ,200mm x 50mm. In certain embodiments, the cavity wall insulation structure may be about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 90mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 90mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 90mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 90mm. Suitably, the cavity wall insulation structure may be 450mm x 1 ,200mm x 90mm. In certain embodiments, the cavity wall insulation structure may be about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 75mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 75mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 75mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 75mm. Suitably, the cavity wall insulation structure may be 450mm x 1 ,200mm x 75mm. In certain embodiments, the cavity wall insulation structure may be about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 100mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 100mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 100mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 100mm. Suitably, the cavity wall insulation structure may be 450mm x 1 ,200mm x 100mm. In certain embodiments, the cavity wall insulation structure may be about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 120mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 120mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 120mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 120mm. Suitably, the cavity wall insulation structure may be 450mm x 1 ,200mm x 120mm. In certain embodiments, the cavity wall insulation structure may be about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 150mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 150mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 150mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 150mm. Suitably, the cavity wall insulation structure may be 450mm x 1 ,200mm x 150mm. In certain embodiments, the cavity wall insulation structure may be about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm x 200mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm x 200mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm x 200mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm x 200mm. Suitably, the cavity wall insulation structure may be 450mm x 1 ,200mm x 200mm. In certain embodiments, the frame may optionally comprise a plurality of substantially parallel frame members. The frame may comprise any suitable number of substantially parallel frame members. For example, the frame may comprise between 2 and 20 substantially parallel frame members, suitably from between 4 and 16 substantially parallel frame members, such as from between 6 and 10 substantially parallel frame members, or even from between 6 and 8 substantially parallel frame members. Suitably, the frame may comprise 7 substantially parallel frame members. The substantially parallel frame members may be any suitable distance apart. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the substantially parallel frame members may be arranged at a suitable distance apart according to the total number of substantially parallel frame members present in the frame. For example, the distance between each of the substantially parallel frame members may be between 20mm and 2,000mm, suitably between 50mm and 1 ,000mm, such as between 50mm and 600mm, or even between about 100mm and 500mm.

The substantially parallel frame members may have any suitable form. In certain embodiments, the substantially parallel frame members may be substantially solid, may be in the form of a grid, such as a square, rectangular or hexagonal grid, or may be formed from a plurality of struts. Suitably, the substantially parallel frame members may be in the form of a plurality of struts.

In certain embodiments, the substantially parallel frame members, in use, may run substantially vertically or substantially horizontally. Suitably, the substantially parallel frame members, in use, may run substantially vertically. In certain embodiments, the substantially parallel frame members may run parallel with the width of the frame. Advantageously, when the substantially parallel frame members run substantially vertically the frame may be filled with an insulating material after it has been inserted between the inner skin and the outer skin of a cavity wall.

The cross-section of the substantially parallel frame members may have any suitable shape. In certain embodiments, the cross-section of the or each substantially parallel frame member may be substantially rectangular or may be substantially T-shaped. Suitably, the cross-section of the or each substantially parallel frame member may be substantially T-shaped. For the avoidance of doubt, the "cross-section" of the substantially parallel frame members refers to, unless otherwise specified, the cross section through the shortest dimension of the said substantially parallel frame member. Advantageously, the use of T-shaped substantially parallel frame members provide, in use, an increased area of contact between the substantially parallel frame members and the inner and/or outer skin of the cavity wall thus reducing the pressure exerted at a given point thereon. The substantially parallel frame members may be connected to any suitable part of the first surface of the frame. Suitably, the substantially parallel frame members may be attached between the channels of the first surface of the frame. The term "between the channels" as referred to herein, unless specified otherwise, means that the substantially parallel frame members are positioned between two channels such that they run parallel with the direction of said channels.

In certain embodiments, the first surface of the frame and the or each substantially parallel frame member(s), when present, may be formed as a single entity or may be made from a plurality of parts which are subsequently assembled. For example, the first surface of the frame and the or each substantially parallel frame member(s), when present, may be manufactured individually and subsequently assembled. Suitably, the first surface of the frame and the or each substantially parallel frame member(s), when present, may be formed as a single entity. The frame may be made by any suitable method. In certain embodiments, when the frame is formed from plastic, the frame may be injection moulded.

The first surface of the frame may further comprise an optional surface layer. The surface layer, when present, may comprise any suitable material. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: plastic, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate; foil, such as aluminium foil or other metal foils; or a combination thereof. Suitably, the surface layer, when present, may be substantially water-proof. Advantageously, the provision of an additional surface layer may provide a water-proof barrier which prevents any moisture which may be present from penetrating the cavity wall insulation structure. Advantageously, the provision of an additional surface layer allows the insulating material to be held within the frame.

The surface layer, when present, may be bonded to the frame by any suitable method. For example, the surface layer may be attached to the frame by an adhesive.

In certain embodiments, the first surface of the frame may further comprise an optional lip portion. In certain embodiments, the optional lip portion may run between the channels of the first surface of the frame. Suitably, the optional lip portion may run between the channels of the first surface of the frame of the substantially parallel frame member(s) which, in use, is adjacent to the outer skin of the cavity wall. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the optional lip portion may run between one or a plurality of the channels of the first surface of the frame. The term "between the channels" as referred to herein, unless specified otherwise, means that the substantially parallel frame members are positioned between two channels such that they run parallel with the direction of said channels. The cross-section of the optional lip portion may have any suitable shape. For example, the cross section of the optional lip portion may be substantially circular or hemispherical. Advantageously, the provision of the lip portion as defined above allows the frame to be more easily inserted between the inner skin and the outer skin of the cavity wall because it provides a smoother surface such that the frame is less likely to be impeded (or to 'catch') on the outer skin of a cavity wall when it is being inserted between the inner skin and the outer skin of said cavity wall.

The first surface of the frame comprises at least one channel. The cross-section of the at least one channel may have any suitable shape. Suitable shapes include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: hemispherical; square; rectangular; triangular; rhomboid; or trapezoid. Suitably, the at least one channel may be substantially hemispherical. The frame may comprise any suitable number of channels. In certain embodiments, the frame may comprise from 1 to 50 channels, suitably from 5 to 40 channels, such as from 10 to 30 channels, or even from 10 to 20 channels.

The or each channel may be of any suitable depth. In certain embodiments, the or each channel may have a depth of about 30mm, suitably about 15mm, such as about 10mm, such as about 5mm, or even about 2mm. Suitably, the or each channel may have a depth of about 15mm. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the number of channels may be chosen so as to provide a suitable depth of the or each channel. Advantageously, the provision of the at least one channel adjacent to the outer skin of the cavity wall allows air to circulate such that the accumulation of moisture is prevented. Thus, advantageously, the use of the cavity wall insulation structure according to any aspect of the present invention reduces, or may even substantially prevent, the build up of damp caused by condensation.

In certain embodiments, the channels, in use, may run substantially vertically or substantially horizontally. Suitably, the channels, in use, may run substantially vertically. Advantageously, when the channels, in use, run substantially vertically the frame is simpler to install because the first surface of the frame is less likely to be impeded (or to 'catch') on the outer skin of a cavity wall when it is being inserted between the inner skin and the outer skin of a cavity wall. Advantageously, when the channels, in use, run substantially vertically any condensation which may be present is able to run down the channels such that moisture may be drained away. For the avoidance of doubt, the term "in use", or like terms, as used herein refers to the frame as inserted between the inner skin and the outer skin of a cavity wall unless otherwise stated. In certain embodiments, the frame may comprise an insulating material. Suitable examples of insulating material include, but are not limited to, the following: fibreglass; foam sheets, such as polyisocyanurate, polyurethane, polystyrene or phenolic foam sheets; foamed polyethylene; foamed plastic; bubble-wrap; polystyrene, such as polystyrene balls; hollow plastic balls; loose- fill materials, such as cellulose, fibreglass, perlite, vermiculite or icynene loose-fill; natural fibres, such as wool, wood fibre or cotton; spray foams, such as polyisocyanurate spray foams, closed- or open-cell polyurethane spray foam, urea foam, urea-formaldehyde foam or phenolic spray foam; straw; or a combination thereof.

In certain embodiments, the insulating material, when present, may be compressible or may be incompressible. Suitably, the insulating material, when present, may be compressible.

In certain embodiments, the insulating material, when present, may be attached to at least a portion of the first surface of the frame. Suitable examples of insulating material include, but are not limited to, the following: foam sheets, such as polyisocyanurate, polyurethane polystyrene or phenolic foam sheets; foamed polyethylene; foamed plastic; bubble-wrap; or the like; or combinations thereof. The insulating material may be attached to the frame by any suitable method. Suitably, the insulating material may be attached to the frame by an adhesive.

In certain embodiments, the frame, when at least two substantially parallel frame members are present, may be at least partially filled with an insulating material. The frame, when at least two substantially parallel frame members are present, may be at least partially filled with an insulating material during manufacture of the frame, before the frame has been inserted between the inner skin and the outer skin of a cavity wall or after the frame has been inserted between the inner skin and the outer skin of a cavity wall. Suitably, the frame, when at least two substantially parallel frame members are present, may be at least partially filled with an insulating material during manufacture of the frame or before it has been inserted between the inner skin and the outer skin of a cavity wall. Suitable examples of insulating material include, but are not limited to, the following: polystyrene, such as polystyrene balls; hollow plastic balls; loose-fill materials, such as cellulose, fibreglass, perlite, vermiculite or icynene loose-fill; natural fibres, such as wool, wood fibre or cotton; spray foams, such as polyisocyanurate spray foams, closed- or open-cell polyurethane spray foam, urea foam, urea-formaldehyde foam or phenolic spray foam; straw; or a combination thereof. Suitably, the frame, when at least two substantially parallel frame members are present, may be at least partially filled with polystyrene balls. Suitably, the frame, when at least two substantially parallel frame members are present, may be at least partially filled with polystyrene balls during manufacture of the frame. In certain preferred embodiments, the frame, when at least two substantially parallel frame members are present, may be substantially filled with an insulating material during manufacture of the frame, before the frame has been inserted between the inner skin and the outer skin of a cavity wall or after the frame has been inserted between the inner skin and the outer skin of a cavity wall. Suitably, the frame, when at least two substantially parallel frame members are present, may be substantially filled with an insulating material during manufacture of the frame. The frame, when at least two substantially parallel frame members are present, may be substantially filled with insulating materials as described above. Advantageously, the cavity wall insulation structure according to any aspect of the present invention allows the hollow space or cavity of a cavity wall to be at least partially filled with an insulating material such that the insulating material is not directly abutting to the outer skin of the cavity wall. Advantageously, the cavity wall insulation structure according to the present invention substantially prevents the build up of moisture in the hollow space or cavity of the cavity wall, in particular, it prevents the build up of moisture in the insulating material, when present.

The inner skin of the cavity wall may be formed from any suitable material. Examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: bricks; hollow clay bricks; concrete blocks; masonry blocks; natural stone; timber; or a combination thereof. Suitably, the inner skin of the cavity wall may be formed from masonry blocks or timber.

The outer skin of the cavity wall may be formed from any suitable material. Examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: bricks; hollow clay bricks; concrete blocks; masonry blocks; natural stone; timber; or a combination thereof. Suitably, the outer skin of the cavity wall may be formed from bricks or concrete blocks, more suitably, the outer skin of the cavity wall may be formed from bricks.

The hollow space or cavity between the inner skin and the outer skin of the cavity wall may be any suitable size. Typically, in the United Kingdom (UK), the hollow space or cavity between the inner skin and the outer skin of the cavity wall is at least about 100mm. In certain embodiments, the hollow space or cavity between the inner skin and the outer skin of the cavity wall may be from about 50mm to 200mm, suitably from about 75mm to about 200mm, such as from about 90mm to about 150mm, or even from about 90mm to about 120mm. Suitably, the hollow space or cavity between the inner skin and the outer skin of the cavity wall may be about 100mm. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the hollow space or cavity between the inner skin and the outer skin of the cavity wall may be determined according to the appropriate building regulations. Advantageously, it is not necessary to fix the cavity wall insulation structure of the present invention to the inner skin and/or outer skin of the cavity wall. Accordingly, the cavity wall insulation structure according to the present invention is simpler to use and, in particular, simpler to install than known cavity wall insulation.

The cavity wall insulation structure may further comprise one or more optional compressible layer.

In certain embodiments, the or each compressible layer, in use, may be arranged between the frame and the inner skin of the cavity wall or may be arranged between the frame and the outer skin of the cavity wall. Suitably, the or each compressible layer, in use, may be arranged between the frame and the inner skin of the cavity wall.

The or each compressible layer may be formed from any suitable material. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: bubble-wrap; foam, such as foamed polyethylene or foamed plastic; inflatable materials, such as materials that are inflatable by air, gas or by foam; or combinations thereof. Suitably, the or each compressible layer may be formed from bubble-wrap, inflatable materials or foamed polyethylene or foamed plastic. Suitably, the or each compressible layer may be formed from bubble-wrap. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that each compressible layer, when more than one compressible layer is present, may be formed from the same or from different materials.

In certain embodiments, the compressible layer may be insulating. In certain embodiments, the compressible layer may comprise an envelope. Suitably, the envelope, when present, may comprise a first surface and a second surface, said first and second surfaces being connected around their peripheries. The envelope, when present, may be formed from any suitable material. Suitably, the envelope, when present, may be formed from a gas impermeable material. By "gas impermeable" is meant that substantially no gas, such as air, is able to pass through the material. In certain embodiments, the envelope, when present, may comprise a plastic material. Suitable examples of plastics include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: polyethylene; polypropylene; polyvinyl chloride (PVC); or combinations thereof. For the avoidance of doubt, reference to the materials from which the envelope may be formed includes materials from which components of the envelope, such as, for example, the first and/or second surfaces, may be formed.

In certain embodiments, the envelope, when present, may comprise a single plastic material or may comprise two or more plastic materials. It will be appreciated that each of the components from which the envelope, when present, is formed, such as, for example, the first and second surfaces, may be formed from the same or different material(s). Suitably, the envelope, when present, has a first surface. The first surface may be any suitable shape. For example, the first surface may be substantially square in shape or may be substantially rectangular in shape. Suitably, the first surface may be substantially rectangular in shape. The first surface may be any suitable size. The first surface may be of any suitable width and length. In certain embodiments, the first surface may have a width of about 1 ,000mm, suitably about 800mm, such as about 600mm or even about 450mm. In certain embodiments, the first surface may have a length of about 2,000mm, suitably about 1 ,500mm, such as about 1 ,200mm, or even about 900mm. In certain embodiments, the first surface may have a width x length of about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm. Suitably, the first surface may have a width x length of about 450mm x 1 ,200mm.

For the avoidance of doubt, the term "width" as used herein with reference to the first surface, unless specified otherwise, refers to the shortest dimension of the first surface of the envelope, when present, which, in use, runs substantially vertically. For the avoidance of doubt, the term "length" as used herein with reference to the first surface, unless specified otherwise, refers to the longest dimension of the first surface of the envelope, when present, which, in use, runs substantially horizontally. However, it will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the width and length of the first surface may be equal. Suitably, the envelope, when present, has a second surface. The second surface may be any suitable shape. For example, the second surface may be substantially square in shape or may be substantially rectangular in shape. Suitably, the second surface may be substantially rectangular in shape. The second surface may be any suitable size. The second surface may be of any suitable width and length. In certain embodiments, the second surface may have a width of about 1 ,000mm, suitably about 800mm, such as about 600mm or even about 450mm. In certain embodiments, the second surface may have a length of about 2,000mm, suitably about 1 ,500mm, such as about 1 ,200mm, or even about 900mm. In certain embodiments, the second surface may have a width x length of about 1 ,000mm x 2,000mm, suitably about 800mm x 1 ,500mm, such as about 600mm x 1 ,200mm, or even about 450mm x 900mm. Suitably, the second surface may have a width x length of about 450mm x 1 ,200mm.

For the avoidance of doubt, the term "width" as used herein with reference to the second surface, unless specified otherwise, refers to the shortest dimension of the second surface of the envelope, when present, which, in use, runs substantially vertically. For the avoidance of doubt, the term "length" as used herein with reference to the second surface, unless specified otherwise, refers to the longest dimension of the second surface of the envelope, when present, which, in use, runs substantially horizontally. However, it will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the width and length of the second surface may be equal.

Suitably, the first surface and the second surface of the envelope, when present, may have substantially the same shape.

Suitably, the first surface and the second surface of the envelope, when present, may be substantially the same size. For example, the first surface and the second surface may have substantially the same width and length.

Suitably, the first and second surfaces of the envelope, when present, are connected around their peripheries. Suitably, the first and second surfaces of the envelope, when present, may be connected around their peripheries so as to be substantially airtight. By "airtight", and like terms as used herein, unless specified otherwise, is meant that the first and second surfaces of the envelope, when present, are connected such that gases, such as air, are substantially unable to pass into the envelope. In certain embodiments, the first and second surfaces of the envelope, when present, may be directly connected together around their peripheries or may be connected together around their peripheries by means of a connecting portion. In certain embodiments, the first and second surfaces, when directly connected together around their peripheries, may be connected by any suitable method. Suitable examples of methods to connect the first and second surfaces, when directly connected together around their peripheries, include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: use of an adhesive; welding, such as welding using heat or solvents; or a combination thereof. In an alternative method, the first and second surfaces, when directly connected together around their peripheries, may be integrally formed. In certain embodiments, the first and second surfaces, may be connected together around their peripheries by means of a connecting portion. The connecting portion, when present, may be of any suitable form. The connecting portion, when present, may have any suitable length. In certain embodiments, the connecting portion, when present, may have a length which is substantially the same as the distance around the periphery of the first and/or second surfaces of the envelope, when present, or may have a length which is less than the distance around the periphery of the first and/or second surfaces of the envelope, when present,. Suitably, the connecting portion, when present, may have a length which is substantially the same as the distance around the periphery of the first and/or second surfaces of the envelope, when present. For the avoidance of doubt, the term "length" as used herein with respect to the connecting portion, unless specified otherwise, refers to the longest dimension of the connecting portion which, when the connecting portion is connected to the first and/or second surfaces, runs around, and may be connected to, the periphery of said first and/or second surfaces. The connecting portion, when present, may have any suitable width. In certain embodiments, the connecting portion, when present, may have a width from about 50mm to 200mm, suitably from about 75mm to 200mm, such as from 90mm to 150mm, or even from 90mm to 120mm. Suitably, the connecting portion, when present, may have a depth of about 100mm. For the avoidance of doubt, the term "width" as used herein with respect to the connecting portion, unless specified otherwise, refers to the shortest dimension of the connecting portion which, when the connecting portion is connected to the first and second surfaces, is equivalent to the distance between said first and second surfaces.

The connecting portion, when present, may be formed from any suitable gas impermeable material. Suitable gas impermeable materials are as described above. It will be appreciated that the connecting portion, when present, may be formed from the same gas impermeable material as the first surface and/or the second surface of the envelope, when present, or may be formed from a different gas impermeable material to the first surface and/or the second surface of the envelope, when present. The first and second surfaces, when connected together around their peripheries by means of a connecting portion, may be connected by any suitable method. Suitably, each of the first and second surfaces may be attached to the connecting portion. Suitable examples of methods to connect the first and second surfaces to the connecting portion include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: use of an adhesive; welding, such as welding using heat or solvents; or a combination thereof. In an alternative method, the first and second surfaces and the connecting portion may be integrally formed.

In certain embodiments, the envelope, when present, may comprise a foam located between the first and second surfaces of the envelope. Suitably, the foam may be an open-celled foam. By "open-celled foam", and like terms as used herein, is meant a foam material in which substantially all of the gaps or pockets located therein are connected to one another. It will be appreciated that an open-celled foam may comprise a portion of discrete gaps or pockets but that the majority of said gaps or air pockets are connected to one another. Suitably, the foam, such as open-celled foam, is located between the first and second surfaces of the envelope, when present. It will be appreciated, therefore, that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is located within the envelope, when present.

The foam may comprise any suitable foam. In certain embodiments, the foam may comprise an open-celled foam. Suitable examples include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: thermoplastic foams such as, for example, polyurethane foam, polyethylene foam, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) foam, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) foam or combinations thereof. Suitably, the foam may comprise polyethylene foam. Suitably, the foam may comprise open-celled polyethylene foam.

The envelope, when present, may comprise any suitable amount of foam, such as open-celled foam. In certain embodiments, the foam, such as open-celled foam, may substantially fill the envelope, when present, or may fill only a portion of the envelope, when present. In certain embodiments, the foam, such as open-celled foam, may substantially fill the envelope, when present, such that it exerts a positive pressure thereon.

In certain embodiments, the envelope, when present and comprising a foam, such as an open- celled foam, may be operable to be subjected to reduced pressure such that the foam, such as open-celled foam, is thereby substantially compressed. The term "reduced pressure" or like terms as used herein, unless specified otherwise, refers to any pressure which is lower than atmospheric pressure. For the avoidance of doubt, atmospheric pressure is 1 atm (=101 ,325 Pa). It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that when the envelope is subjected to a reduced pressure, a portion of the gas, such as air, or substantially all of the gas, such as air, present in the envelope has been removed.

In certain embodiments, the envelope, when present and comprising a foam, such as open- celled foam, may be operable to be subjected to a full or a partial vacuum. Suitably, the envelope, when present and comprising a foam, such as open-celled foam, may be operable to be subjected to a full vacuum.

The envelope, when present and comprising a foam, such as open-celled foam, may be operable to be subjected to a reduced pressure by any suitable method. For example, the envelope, when present and comprising a foam, such as open-celled foam, may be operable to be connected to any suitable means for removing some or substantially all of the gas, such as air, present in the envelope. In certain embodiments, the envelope, when present and comprising a foam, such as open-celled foam, may be operable to be connected to a vacuum pump. In certain embodiments, the envelope, when present and comprising a foam, such as open-celled foam, may comprise a valve such that it is operable to be connected to any suitable means for removing some or substantially all of the gas, such as air, present in the envelope. Suitably, the envelope, when present and comprising a foam, such as open-celled foam, may comprise a valve such that it is operable to be connected to a vacuum pump. In certain embodiments, the envelope, when present and comprising a foam, such as open-celled foam, may comprise one or more valve(s), suitably one valve. The valve, when present, may be located on any suitable location of the envelope. Suitably, the valve, when present, may be located on one or more of the first surface of the envelope, on the second surface of the envelope or, on the connecting portion of the envelope, when present. For the avoidance of doubt, reference to removing some or substantially all of the gas, such as air, present in the envelope includes removal of some or substantially all of the gas, such as air, present in the gaps or pockets within the foam, such as open-celled foam, located therein.

In certain embodiments, the envelope, when present, may further comprise a means for subjecting the envelope to an increased pressure. Suitably, the means for subjecting the envelope, when present, to an increased pressure comprises a method for introducing a gas into the envelope. For example, the envelope, when present, may comprise a gas canister or may be operable to be connected to any suitable means for introducing a gas into the envelope. In certain embodiments, the envelope, when present, may be operable to be connected to a gas canister and/or an air pump. In certain embodiments, the envelope, when present, may comprise a valve such that it is operable to be connected to any suitable means for introducing a gas into the envelope. Suitably, the envelope, when present, may comprise a valve such that it is operable to be connected to a gas canister and/or an air pump. In certain embodiments, the envelope, when present, may comprise one or more valve(s), suitably one valve. The valve, when present, may be located on any suitable location of the envelope. Suitably, the valve, when present, may be located on one or more of the first surface of the envelope, on the second surface of the envelope or on the connecting portion of the envelope, when present. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the valve operable to be connected to a gas canister and/or an air pump may be the same or different to the valve operable be connected to any suitable means for removing some or substantially all of the gas, such as air, present in the envelope, such as a vacuum pump.

The gas may comprise any suitable gas. For example, the gas may comprise air, carbon dioxide, argon or combinations thereof. Suitably, the gas may comprise air, carbon dioxide or a combination thereof.

For the avoidance of doubt, reference to introducing a gas into the envelope, when present, above includes introducing a gas into an envelope having no foam, such as open-celled foam, therein or into an envelope having a foam, such as open-celled foam, located therein.

In certain embodiments, the method for introducing a gas into the envelope, when present and comprising a foam, such as open-celled foam, may be by forming a hole in the envelope. Forming a hole in the envelope, when present, may be done by any suitable method. For example a hole may be formed by piercing the envelope using a tool such as, for example, a knife or may be formed by tearing or ripping the envelope, for example, manually.

It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that, when introducing a gas into the envelope by forming a hole in the envelope, the gas will typically be air from the atmosphere. However, when introducing a gas into the envelope by forming a hole in the envelope, gas may alternatively be pumped into the envelope from, for example, an air pump or gas canister through the formed hole. In certain embodiments, when a hole has been formed in the envelope, the hole may be subsequently covered and/or resealed. The hole may be subsequently covered and/or resealed by any suitable method. For example, the hole may be subsequently covered and/or resealed using tape or an adhesive.

In certain embodiments, the or each compressible layer may optionally be attached to the frame of the cavity wall insulation structure during the manufacturing process. Suitably, the or each compressible layer is attached to the frame of the cavity wall insulation structure during the manufacturing process. In certain embodiments, the or each compressible layer may optionally be attached to the frame by an adhesive. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that when one or more compressible layer is optionally attached to the frame during manufacture, one or more additional compressible layers which are not attached to the frame may also be provided.

Advantageously, the use of at least one compressible layer allows the frame of the cavity wall insulation structure of the present invention to be easily inserted between the inner skin and the outer skin of a cavity wall whilst maintaining a tight fit once therein.

Therefore, according to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cavity wall insulation structure for inserting between an inner skin and an outer skin of a cavity wall, the cavity wall insulation structure comprising; a frame having a first surface,

at least one channel on the first surface of said frame, and

a compressible layer, wherein, in use, the at least one channel is operable to be arranged adjacent to the outer skin of the cavity wall to thereby define a void operable to allow air to flow therethrough, wherein the frame is formed from a semi-rigid material, and wherein, in use, the compressible layer is arranged between the frame and the inner skin of the cavity wall and is operable to allow the frame to be easily inserted between the inner skin and the outer skin of the cavity wall whilst maintaining a tight fit once therein. In certain embodiments, the cavity wall insulation structure according to any aspect of the present invention may further comprise one or more optional foil layer. Suitably, the foil layer, when present, may be selected so as to have low emissivity. "Low emissivity", and like terms as used herein, means, unless specified otherwise, that the foil layer should emit low levels of radiant thermal (i.e. heat) energy. Suitably, the foil layer, when present, may be selected so as to have high reflectivity at a wavelength of about 3 to 15 microns (μηι). "High reflectivity", and like terms as used herein, means, unless specified otherwise, that the foil layer should reflect high levels of radiant thermal (i.e. heat) energy, in particular at the specified wavelengths.

The or each foil layer may be formed from any suitable material. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, the following: metal foil, such as aluminium foil or tin foil; plastic foil; or combinations thereof. Suitably, the or each foil layer may be a metal foil. In certain embodiments, the or each foil layer, in use, may be between the frame and the outer skin of the cavity wall, may be between the frame and the inner skin of the cavity wall, may be between the compressible layer, when present, and the outer skin of the cavity wall or may be between the compressible layer, when present, and the inner skin of the cavity wall. Suitably, the or each foil layer, in use, may be between the frame and the inner skin of the cavity wall or may be between the compressible layer, when present, and the inner skin of the cavity wall, more suitably between the compressible layer, when present, and the inner skin of the cavity wall. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that each foil layer, when more than one foil layer is present, may be formed from the same or from different materials. Advantageously, the provision of at least one foil layer, in use, may improve the thermal insulation of the cavity wall insulation structure. Advantageously, the provision of at least one foil layer, in use, may provide a water-proof barrier.

In certain embodiments, the or each foil layer may optionally be attached to the frame and/or the compressible layer, when present, of the cavity wall insulation structure during the manufacturing process. Suitably, the or each foil layer is attached to the frame and/or the compressible layer, when present, of the cavity wall insulation structure during the manufacturing process, In certain embodiments, the or each foil layer may optionally be attached to the frame and/or the compressible layer, when present, by an adhesive. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that when one or more foil layer is optionally attached to the frame and/or the compressible layer, when present, during manufacture, one or more additional foil layers which are not attached to the frame and/or the compressible layer, when present, may also be provided. Therefore, according to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cavity wall insulation structure for inserting between an inner skin and an outer skin of a cavity wall, the cavity wall insulation structure comprising; a frame having a first surface,

at least one channel on the first surface of said frame,

a compressible layer, and

a foil layer, wherein, in use, the at least one channel is operable to be arranged adjacent to the outer skin of the cavity wall to thereby define a void operable to allow air to flow therethrough, wherein the frame is formed from a semi-rigid material wherein, in use, the compressible layer is arranged between the frame and the foil layer and is operable to allow the frame to be easily inserted between the inner skin and the outer skin of the cavity wall whilst maintaining a tight fit once therein, and wherein, in use, the foil layer is arranged between the compressible layer and the inner skin of the cavity wall and is operable to provide an insulating layer.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided the use of a cavity wall insulation structure for inserting between an inner skin and an outer skin of a cavity wall, the cavity wall insulation structure comprising; a frame having a first surface, and

at least one channel on the first surface of said frame, wherein, in use, the at least one channel is arranged adjacent to the outer skin of the cavity wall and operable to thereby define a void to allow air to flow therethrough, and wherein the frame is formed from a semi-rigid material. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for insulating a cavity wall having an inner skin and an outer skin, the method comprising the steps of:

(a) inserting a cavity wall insulation structure between the said inner skin and outer skin of the cavity wall, wherein, the cavity wall insulation structure comprises a frame having a first surface, and at least one channel on the first surface of said frame; wherein, the at least one channel is arranged adjacent to the outer skin of the cavity wall to thereby define a void operable to allow air to flow therethrough,

and wherein the frame is formed from a semi-rigid material. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a cavity wall having an inner skin and an outer skin, wherein the cavity wall further comprises a cavity wall insulation structure inserted between the said inner skin and outer skin, the cavity wall insulation structure comprising; a frame having a first surface, and

at least one channel on the first surface of said frame, wherein, the at least one channel is arranged adjacent to the outer skin of the cavity wall to thereby define a void to allow air to flow therethrough, and wherein the frame is formed from a semi-rigid material.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a cavity wall insulation structure for inserting between an inner skin and an outer skin of a cavity wall, the cavity wall insulation structure comprising; a frame having a first surface, and

at least one channel on the first surface of said frame, wherein, in use, the at least one channel is operable to be arranged adjacent to the outer skin of the cavity wall to thereby define a void operable to allow air to flow therethrough.

All of the features contained herein may be combined with any of the above aspects and in any combination. For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how embodiments of the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a cavity wall insulation structure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 shows a plan view of a cavity wall insulation structure inserted between an inner skin and an outer skin of a cavity wall according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 shows a side view of a cavity wall insulation structure according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a cavity wall insulation structure according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 1 shows a cavity wall insulation structure (100) for inserting between an inner skin (102) and an outer skin (not shown) of a cavity wall. The cavity wall insulation structure (100) has a frame (104) made from polyethylene. The frame (104) has a width of 450mm, a length of 1 ,200mm and depth of 100mm. As can be seen in figure 1 , the frame (104) has a plurality of channels (106) which run vertically along the width of the frame (104) when the frame (104) is inserted between the inner skin (102) and the outer skin (not shown) of a cavity wall. The channels (106) have a hemispherical cross-sectional shape. The frame (104) further comprises a foil sheet (108) which is bonded to the frame (104) by an adhesive.

The frame (104) is injection moulded from a single piece of plastic and has five (5) parallel frame members (1 10a-e). As can be seen in figure 1 , the parallel frame members (1 10a) and (1 10b) are connected by a support member (1 12) in the form of a hexagonal grid. Similarly, parallel frame members (1 10b) and (1 10c), (1 10c) and (1 10d) and (1 10d) and (1 10e) are also connected by a support member (not shown) in the form of a hexagonal grid. The support member (1 12) in the form of a hexagonal grid forms the first surface (1 14) of the frame (104) having the plurality of channels (106). Figure 2 shows a cavity wall insulation structure (200) which is inserted between the inner skin (202a) and the outer skin (202b) of a cavity wall. The hollow space or cavity between the inner skin (202a) and the outer skin (202b) of the cavity wall is 100mm. The cavity wall insulation structure (200) has a frame (204) made from polyethylene and is 450mm x 1 ,200mm x 100mm in size. The frame (204) has a plurality of channels (206) which run vertically along the width of the frame (204). The channels (206) are adjacent to the outer skin (202b) of the cavity wall providing a series of hollow spaces or gaps (207) between the frame (204) and the outer skin (202b) of the cavity wall. The provision of the series of hollow spaces or gaps (207) enables air to circulate within the cavity wall reducing the amount of damp caused by condensation. The frame (204) is injection moulded and has nine (9) parallel frame members (21 Oa-i). Each of the parallel frame members (21 Oa-i) are connected to the parallel frame members adjacent to itself by a support member (212) in the form of a hexagonal grid (not shown). The support member (212) in the form of a hexagonal grid forms the first surface (not shown) of the frame (204) having the plurality of channels (206). As shown in figure 2, the frame (204) is additionally filled with insulating material in the form of polystyrene balls (216) in order to improve the thermal insulation of the cavity wall. The frame (204) is filled with the insulating material in the form of polystyrene balls (216) during the manufacture of the frame (204). Although figure 2 shows that insulating material between parallel frame members (210b) and (210c) only, it will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the remainder of the frame also filled with insulating material (not shown).

The cavity wall insulation structure (200) as shown in figure 2 includes a compressible layer (218) adjacent to the frame (204) at the inner skin (202a) side of the cavity wall. The compressible layer (218) is made from a foamed polyethylene sheet and allows the frame (204) to be easily inserted between the inner skin (202a) and the outer skin (202b) of the cavity wall whilst maintaining a tight fit therein. The cavity wall insulation structure (200) also has a foil layer (220) between the compressible layer (218) and the inner skin (202a) of the cavity wall. The foil layer (220) provides a waterproof barrier. None of the frame (204), compressible layer (218) or foil layer (220) are attached to either the inner skin (202a) nor the outer skin (202b) of the cavity wall. Figure 3 shows a cavity wall insulation structure (300) for inserting between an inner skin (not shown) and an outer skin (not shown) of a cavity wall. The cavity wall insulation structure (300) has a frame (304) made from polyethylene. The frame (304) has a width of 450mm and a length of 1 ,200mm. As can be seen in figure 3, the frame (304) has a plurality of channels (306) which run vertically along the width of the frame (304) when the frame (304) is inserted between the inner skin (not shown) and the outer skin (not shown) of a cavity wall. The channels (306) have a hemispherical cross-sectional shape. The frame (304) is injection moulded from a single piece of plastic.

The cavity wall insulation structure (300) includes a compressible layer (318) adjacent to the frame (304). The compressible layer (318) is in the form of an envelope (322) having a first surface (324) and a second surface (326) which are connected around their peripheries by a connecting portion (328). Each of the first surface (324), second surface (326) and connecting portion (328) are formed from polyethylene which is gas impermeable. The frame (304) is attached to the first surface (324) of the envelope (322) by an adhesive. The envelope (322) is filled with an open-celled foam (not shown). Accordingly, the compressible layer (318) is insulating. The open celled foam is formed from polyethylene foam. The envelope (322) also has a valve (330) operable to be connected to a vacuum pump (not shown) and also operable to be connected to an air pump (not shown). The envelope (322) is subjected to reduced pressure, by virtue of having been connected to a vacuum pump (not shown), such that the open-celled foam (not shown) is compressed.

The compressible layer (318) of figure 3 allows the frame (304) to be easily inserted between the inner skin (not shown) and the outer skin (not shown) of the cavity wall because it has a reduced volume, i.e. a shallower depth than the distance between the inner skin (not shown) and the outer skin (not shown) of the cavity wall. This is by virtue of the fact that the open-celled foam (not shown) is compressed. Figure 4 shows a cavity wall insulation structure (400) for inserting between an inner skin (not shown) and an outer skin (not shown) of a cavity wall. The cavity wall insulation structure (400) has a frame (404) made from polyethylene. The frame (404) has a width of 450mm and a length of 1 ,200mm. As can be seen in figure 4, the frame (404) has a plurality of channels (406) which run vertically along the width of the frame (404) when the frame (404) is inserted between the inner skin (not shown) and the outer skin (not shown) of a cavity wall. The channels (406) have a hemispherical cross-sectional shape. The frame (404) is injection moulded from a single piece of plastic.

The cavity wall insulation structure (400) includes two (2) foil layers (420a, 420b) and a compressible layer (418). The first foil layer (420a) is located between the frame (404) and the compressible layer (418) and the second foil layer (420b) is located adjacent to the compressible layer (418) such, in use, it is located between the compressible layer (418) and the inner skin (not shown) of the cavity wall. Each of the components are attached to each other by an adhesive, as necessary.

The compressible layer (418) is in the form of an envelope (422) having a first surface (424) and a second surface (426) which are connected around their peripheries by a connecting portion (428). Each of the first surface (424), second surface (426) and connecting portion (428) are formed from polyethylene which is gas impermeable. The first foil layer (420a) is attached to the first surface (424) of the envelope (422) by an adhesive. The second foil layer (420b) is attached to the second surface (426) of the envelope (422) by an adhesive. The envelope (422) is filled with an open-celled foam (not shown). Accordingly, the compressible layer (418) is insulating. The open celled foam is formed from polyethylene foam. The envelope (422) also has a valve (430) operable to be connected to a vacuum pump (not shown) and also operable to be connected to an air pump (not shown). The envelope (422) is subjected to atmospheric pressure, by virtue of having been connected to an air pump (not shown), such that the open- celled foam (not shown) is in an expanded form. The compressible layer (418) of figure 4 allows the frame (404) to maintain a tight fit between the inner skin (not shown) and the outer skin (not shown) of the cavity wall without the need for additional fixing means by virtue of the fact that the open-celled foam (not shown) is in expanded form.

Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.