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Title:
ELEVATION DEVICE FOR SUPPORTING AN ELEVATED SURFACE AND METHOD FOR INSTALLING AN ELEVATED SURFACE
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2013/189498
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
The invention describes an elevation device for supporting an elevated surface elevating the elevated surface above an additional insulation layer by forming a distance between said elevated surface and said beam; said elevation device being a plate-like member; said member comprising a top edge for supporting an elevated surface and a bottom edge for resting on a beam where said bottom edge comprises at least two open-ended first slots; where said at least two open-ended first slots are adapted for fitting over a beam and fixating said elevation device on said beam and where said open-ended first slots are arranged at a mutual distance allowing said open-ended first slots to be arranged onto the same beam.

Inventors:
BONNEN JESPER (DK)
Application Number:
PCT/DK2013/050198
Publication Date:
December 27, 2013
Filing Date:
June 17, 2013
Export Citation:
Click for automatic bibliography generation   Help
Assignee:
BONNEN JESPER (DK)
International Classes:
E04B5/12; E04B5/14; E04F15/00
Foreign References:
US4557086A1985-12-10
CA1224317A1987-07-21
US3283459A1966-11-08
US20110225910A12011-09-22
Other References:
See also references of EP 2861806A4
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
PATRADE A/S (Aarhus C, DK)
Download PDF:
Claims:
CLAIMS

1. An elevation device (601) for supporting an elevated surface (639) elevating the elevated surface (639) above an additional insulation layer by forming a distance (615) between said elevated surface (639) and said beam (637); said elevation device (601) being a plate-like member; said member comprising

- a top edge (603) for supporting an elevated surface (639); and

- a bottom edge (605) for resting on a beam (637);

characterised in that

- said bottom edge (605) comprises at least two open-ended first slots

(607a,b); where said at least two open-ended first slots (607a,b) are adapted for fitting over a beam (637) and fixating said elevation device (601) on said beam (637); and

- where said open-ended first slots (607a,b) are arranged at a mutual distance (114) allowing said open-ended first slots (607a,b) to be arranged onto the same beam (637).

2. The elevation device according to claim 1 characterised in that said elevation device (601) is flexible being adapted for manually shaping for said open-ended first slots to be fitted to the same beam (637).

3. The elevation device according to claim 1 characterised in that said elevation device (601) is pre-shaped into a shape allowing said open-ended first slots to be fitted to the same beam (637).

4. The elevation device (601) according to any of the claims 1-3 characterised in that said elevation device (601) further comprises at least one open-ended second slot (617a,b,c,d) being adapted for engaging with said elevated surface (639). 5. The elevation device (601) according to any of the preceding claims characterised in that said open-ended first slot (607a,b) and/or said open-ended second slot (617a,b,c,d) is provided with at least one spike (633,635).

6. The elevation device (601) according to claim 5 characterised in that said at least one spike (635) is arranged at at least one side (613a,b, 623a,b,c,d) of said open- ended first slot (607a,b) and/or said open-ended second slot (617a,b,c,d), where said spike (635) is a beard; said beard (635) having an inclined side (741) and a substantially perpendicular side (743) in relation to said sides (613a,b,623a,b,c,d), and where said inclined side (741) slopes towards the open end (611a,b, 621a,b,c,d) of said open- ended first slot (607a,b) and/or said open-ended second slot (617a,b,c,d). 7. The elevation device (601) according to any of the preceding claims characterised in that said elevation device (601) comprises at least one perforation (625a,b).

8. The elevation device (601) according to any of the preceding claims characterised in that said elevation device (601) is made from a profiled plate material.

9. The elevation device (601) according to any of the preceding claims characterised in that said elevation device (601) comprises, at least in the situation of use, at least one bend (627), where said at least one bend (627) extends from said top edge (603) to said bottom edge (605).

10. The elevation device (601) according to any of the claims 1-9 characterised in that said plate-like member of said elevation device (601) is folded as a closed structure being hollow and said elevation device (601) preferably is open at said top edge (603). 11. A method for installing an elevated surface (639) where a plurality of elevation devices (601) as described in any of the claims 1-10 is fitted over beams (637), where each beam (637) comprises an outer surface (645) and where said elevation device (601) is fitted over said outer surface (645) of said beam (637); where said elevation device (601) elevates the elevated surface (639) above an additional insulation layer by forming a distance (615) between said elevated surface (639) and said beam (637); said elevation device (601) comprising a top edge (603) for supporting an elevated surface (639); and a bottom edge (605) for resting on a beam (637); where said bottom edge (605) comprises at least two open-ended first slots (607a,b); where said at least two open-ended first slots (607a,b) are adapted for fitting over a beam (637) and fixating said elevation device (601) on said beam (637), where said open-ended first slots (607a,b) are arranged at a mutual distance (114) allowing said open-ended first slots (607a,b) to be arranged onto the same beam (637).;

- where said open-ended first slots (607a,b) are fitted over said beam

(637) aligning the bottom (609a,b) of said open-ended first slots (607a,b) with said outer surface (645) of said beam (637); and

- where an elevated surface (639) is fitted over the top of a plurality of elevation devices (601) arranged on adjacent beams (637).

Description:
ELEVATION DEVICE FOR SUPPORTING AN ELEVATED SURFACE AND METHOD FOR INSTALLING AN ELEVATED SURFACE

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an elevation device for supporting an elevated surface, which elevates the elevated surface above an additional insulation layer for example at an attic.

Background of the Invention

As a part of the global warming and actions for reducing the C0 2 outcome, there is an increasing demand for better insulation of existing and new houses. In attics of existing houses new insulation is often arranged on top of the existing insulation in order to increase the insulation layer thickness and thereby obtain an efficient layer of insulation.

The attic often comprises a footbridge with a width of 60-80 cm. The footbridge is normally used for inspection of the roof and household installations. Furthermore, the attic is often equipped with shelves and room for storage which is often a necessity for many households.

Placing the storage at the footbridge is inexpedient as the space for placing the storage is very small, and it makes the inspection in the attic difficult. Thus, in order to keep the storage in the attic, it is to be arranged next to the footbridge. However, arranging the storage on top of the insulating material compresses the material and reduces the isolation properties of the insulation. Hence, a storage plate is often arranged above the isolating material resting on the top of the floor joists.

In Denmark, the insulating material is recommended to be between 300 mm and 400 mm, but often the insulating material is about 200-250 mm. In order to fulfil the recommended amount of insulating material, new insulation is added to the existing insulation or new and thicker isolation replaces the old insulation material in the attic. Hereby, the thickness of the insulation often exceeds the height of the floor joists present in the attic. Arranging a storage plate on top of the insulation material will compress the insulation material, a compression which is further aggravated when arranging storage on top of the storage plate. Hereby, the insulation material is compressed and its insulating properties severely reduced and thermal bridges are created. Overall, the insulation capability of the insulating layer is reduced. US 4,299,509 describes a connector of a structural part such as a beam with another structural member. The connector comprises a load transmitting plate and a support plate. The members of the connector are fastened in different structural members, and a hook-like projection of the load transmitting plate is fitted into a corresponding release of support plate. Hereby, the structural member comprising the load transmitting plate and the structural member comprising the support plate are connected.

WO 2010/0133216 describes a storage system for storage of household goods and articles in an unfinished attic with additional insulation placed above the top surface of the joists. The platform device of the application does not interfere with additional insulation and will allow additional storage space without the need for expensive building materials and/or a support structure to preserve the integrity of the additional insulation. The storage system as described in this application comprises platforms that can be raised above the additional insulation by a multiplicity of legs by combining a plurality of components.

EP2388384 describes an apparatus for providing a platform area in an attic having a plurality of generally parallel joists, the apparatus comprising a plurality of legs, each leg having a joist mounting at one end and a platform support at, or in the region of, the opposite end, and a plurality of boards, the apparatus being arranged, in use, to provide a raised platform over adjacent joists with boards mounted on legs connected to different joists.

US4557086 describes a grain bin floor support system that uses short posts, each formed by appropriately bending a piece of sheet metal into a V-shape, such that the legs of the post diverge from one another and can be gripped and resiliently bent toward one another as by hand. Notches, which are cut into the top edge of the diverging legs of the post are aligned and of such a width that the outer channel of a floor panel can be gripped and accommodated in a binding fit in the two notches. A plurality of these posts is attached to the floorpanel and a series of these panel and post assemblies forms a grain bin floor.

In the attic, the space is often narrow, especially along the sides close to a sloping roof. Thus, in order to improve the working environment, it is advantageous that the storage surfaces can be installed in a quick and simple manner. Furthermore, it is important that the storage surface is stable when sliding, pushing, and keeping storage on the top of the storage surface.

In the non-published patent application PCT/DK2011/050518 filed by the same applicant, an elevation device is described comprising a first plate member and a second plate member, which plate members are arranged substantially perpendicular to each other. In one embodiment, the first plate member comprises an open-ended slot, which is adapted for fitting over a horizontal joist and where the second plate member rests on the surface of the horizontal joist perpendicular to the first member.

However, this elevation device needs two plate-like members arranged perpendicular to one another in order to form a stable elevation device. Thus, the making of the elevation device according to PCT/DK2011/050518 demands time and manpower either at the fabrication process of the elevation device or before installation, in order to assemble the two members into one elevation device.

Object of the Invention

It is the object of the present invention to provide a simple elevation device, which can be quickly, easily and safely installed. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an elevation device, which is able to establish a distance between two surfaces independent of the position of the surfaces.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an elevation device which ena- bles storage space to be re-established after additional insulation is arranged, or when the thickness of the insulation layer is increased, without reducing the insulating properties of the isolating material and creating thermal bridges. Description of the Invention

This object is achieved by an elevation device for supporting an elevated surface elevating the elevated surface above an additional insulation layer by forming a distance between said elevated surface and said beam; said elevation device being a plate-like member; said member comprising

- a top edge for supporting an elevated surface and

- a bottom edge for resting on a beam;

where said bottom edge comprises at least two open-ended first slots; where said at least two open-ended first slots are adapted for fitting over a beam and fixating said elevation device on said beam; and

where said open-ended first slots are arranged at a mutual distance allowing said open- ended first slots to be arranged onto the same beam.

The beam onto which the elevation device can be arranged in order to introduce a dis- tance between the beam and the elevated surface includes for example horizontal joists, floor joists, ceiling joists, end joists in general, studs, rafters, the main beams of a truss frame etc.

The top edge of the elevation device is adapted for supporting an elevated surface. A single elevated surface is commonly supported by multiple elevation devices. The elevated surface can be for example a plate or a top beam. A plate may then afterwards be connected to the top beam and a surface is created upon which for example storage can be arranged. By elevated surface is to be understood a surface upon which storage can be arranged or an elevated surface, which forms new walls and/or ceilings after an additional layer of insulation is arranged. By elevated is to be understood that the elevated surface is elevated by means of the elevation device(s) above the insulation for example at the attic. The elevation devices enable an elevated surface to be generated, whereby addi- tional isolation can be arranged beneath the elevated surface and/or sufficient circulation can be obtained in order to avoid thermal bridges and moisture formation. Hence, the elevation device creates a distance between the beam upon which the elevation device is arranged and the elevated surface, where the distance is dependent upon the size of the elevation device i.e. the distance between the bottom of the first open-ended slot and the top edge.

The elevation device can be arranged at the top or bottom surfaces of horizontal beams as well as the elevation device can be fitted over beams arranged at an inclined or vertical position. Thus, the elevation device can be used in connection with addition of additional insulation between an outer and an inner roof, between an exterior wall and an interior wall as well as for creation of attic rooms and storage space for example at an attic where additional insulation is demanded.

The elevation device comprises at least two open-ended first slots, where the open- ended first slots open towards the bottom edge of the elevation device and in use are in the lower part of the elevation device. The open-ended first slots are arranged at a mutual distance allowing the open-ended first slots to be fitted over the same beam. Arranging the beam into at least two open-ended first slots stabilises the elevation device from tilting. Thus, a stable elevated surface can be created.

In one embodiment, the elevation device is reversibly fixated to the beam. Hereby is to be understood that the elevation device can be removed from one beam and refitted onto another beam.

In one embodiment, the elevation device is made as a plate enabling the elevation device to be shaped into a form enabling the open-ended first slots to both engage with the beam.

In one embodiment, the width of the open-ended first slots is adjusted to fit to the width of the beam. Hereby, the beam can be arranged into the open-ended first slots in a press-fit connection which further stabilises the attachment of the elevation device to the beam. It is implicitly to be understood that the open-ended first slots can assume different widths in order to fit to beams of different dimensions, and, furthermore, that the width of the open-ended slot can be larger than the width of the beam onto which it is installed. The length of the open-ended first slot is advantageously 1 :2-1 : 10 of the entire length of the elevation device, preferably 1 :3-1 :5, more preferred 1 :4. However, the length of the open-ended first slot can be of any length suitable for stabilising the elevation device.

The elevation device can be made of for example wood, plastic or metals such as stainless steel.

In a further advantageous embodiment, said elevation device is flexible being adapted for manually shaping for said open-ended first slots to be fitted to the same beam.

The flexibility enables at least two open-ended first slots to be arranged onto the same beam by manually bending the elevation device when fitting the open-ended slots over the same beam. The elevation device is hereby under tension and thereby remains in position with regard to the beam.

In a further embodiment, the flexibility of the material is increased by at least one perforation in the elevation device. In a further advantageous embodiment, said elevation device is pre-shaped into a shape allowing said open-ended first slots to be fitted to the same beam. Hereby, the elevation device can be made from a non-flexible material since it is not to be manually shaped when fitting the open-ended first slots over the same beam. On the contrary, the elevation device is pre-shaped into a shape allowing the elevation device to be arranged onto the same beam.

In a further advantageous embodiment, at least a part of said elevation device is, at least in the situation of use, U-shaped. The U-shaped form can be achieved by either pre-shaping the elevation device into a U-shaped form. Alternatively, the U-shaped form is not achieved before the elevation device is in use and manually bends in order for the open-ended first slots to be fitted over the same beam. In one embodiment, the elevation device comprises two open-ended first slots, which both engage with the beam.

In a further embodiment, the elevation device comprises two, three or more U-shaped parts between open-ended first slots, all of which engage with the beam. The U-shaped parts are then arranged alternately on one and the other side of the beam.

In a further advantageous embodiment, said elevation device further comprises at least one open-ended second slot being adapted for engaging with said elevated surface.

Thus, the top edge of the elevation device includes the second sides and the second bottom of the open-ended second slot.

The open-ended second slot is adapted for fitting with for example a top beam, which can be arranged into the open-ended second slot. The elevated surface in the form of a top beam is engaged with the elevation device and more easily kept in place. A plate can then be attached to the top beams, and an elevated surface for storage, for formation of new walls or ceilings, which does not move, is easily created. In one embodiment, the width of the open-ended second slot is adjusted to fit to the width of the top beam. Hereby, the top beams can be arranged into the open-ended second slot in a press-fit connection which further stabilises the attachment of the elevation device to the top beam. It is implicitly to be understood that the open-ended second slot can assume different widths in order to fit to top beams of different dimensions, and, furthermore, that the width of the open-ended slot can be larger than the width of the top beam onto which it is installed. By at least one open-ended second slot is to be understood that the number of second slots can be one, two, three, four, five, six etc. per elevation device. In one embodiment, the number of open-ended second slots is equal to the number of open-ended first slots. This embodiment is advantageous for arranging top beams parallel with the beams. In a further embodiment, the number of open-ended second slots is less than the number of open-ended first slots. This embodiment is advantageous for arranging top beams crosswise to the beams.

In a further embodiment, the number of open-ended second slots is more than the number of open-ended first slots. This embodiment is advantageous for arranging more top beams with one elevation device.

It is to be understood that during use, the open-ended second slot(s) need not all be occupied with top beams. As one example, even though the elevation device comprises open-ended second slot(s), a plate can be arranged on part of the top edge not being the second sides and the second bottom, hereby creating an elevated surface.

In a further advantageous embodiment, said open-ended first slot and/or said open- ended second slot is provided with at least one spike. In a still further advantageous embodiment, said at least one spike is substantially perpendicular to said first and/or second bottom of said open-ended first and/or second slot. In a still further advantageous embodiment, said at least one spike is arranged at at least one of the sides of said open-ended first slot and/or said open-ended second slot, where said spike is a beard; said beard having an inclined side and a substantially perpendicular side in relation to said sides, and where said inclined side slopes towards the open end (611a,b, 621a,b,c,d) of said open-ended first slot (607a,b) and/or said open-ended second slot (617a,b,c,d).

The at least one spike is advantageous during installation of the elevation device onto the beam or when arranging a top beam into the open-ended second slot, since the spike can be pressed or forced, e.g. by a hammer into the beam or top beam. Hereby, the attachment of the elevation device or top beam is further stabilised and is not easily detached from its position. The at least one spike can be arranged at the first bottom of the open-ended first slot or at the second bottom of the open-ended second slot. The at least one spike is preferably substantially perpendicular to the first or second bottom. Hereby, the at least one spike is easily driven into the material of the beam during installation or the top beam when arranging it into the open-ended second slot.

Additionally or instead of the at least one spike being arranged at the first and/or second bottom of the open-ended first and/or second slot, the at least one spike can be arranged along the sides of the first and/or second open-ended slot. In this manner, the material of the elevation device or parts of the elevation device is elastic or flexible enabling the open-ended first and/or second slot to be widened during mounting of the elevation device to the beam or top beam. As an alternative, the at least one spike can be arranged non-perpendicular to the first and/or second sides of the open-ended first and/or second slot and forced into the beam or top beam during mounting.

In an alternative embodiment, the at least one spike is a beard enabling the open-ended first slot to be easily engaged with the beam and/or the top beam to be easily engaged with the open-ended second slot, but preventing the beam and the top beam from being easily removed. This is obtained by the beard having an inclined side, which slopes towards the open end of the first and/or second slot and another side, which is substantially perpendicular to the first and/or second side. Hereby, the top beam or beam is pushed along the inclined side of the beard when engaging with the open-ended second or first slot, respectively. Thus, the beard stabilises the engagement of the top beam or beam with the elevation device and prevents detaching of the top beam and/or the beam from the elevation device. One or more beards can be arranged on one of the two first sides, one of the two second sides, on one of the two first sides and on one of the two second sides, on two of the two first sides and on one of the two second sides, on one of the two first sides and on two of the two second sides, on two of the two first sides, on two of the two second sides, or on two of the two first sides and two of the two second sides.

By at least one spike is to be understood that the number of spikes can be one, two, three, four, five, six etc. per elevation device.

In a further advantageous embodiment, said elevation device comprises at least one perforation. By at least one perforation is to be understood that the number of perforations can be one, two, three, four, five, six etc. per elevation device.

A perforated material enables air to circulate through the elevation devices. Hereby, circulation of air is enhanced between the beams and the elevated surface. This pre- vents the formation of rot due to enhanced humidity as well as formation of thermal bridges.

Furthermore, perforations in the elevation device results in less material per elevation device. Thus, this embodiment is both advantageous with regard to economics and environment, since less material is to be used for each plate member.

In a further advantageous embodiment, said elevation device is made from a profiled plate material. A profiled plate material introduces new characteristics to the elevation device. Using a profiled plate material enables the thickness of the material used to be decreased without changing the strength of the elevation device. Thus, this embodiment is both advantageous with regard to economics and environment, since less material is to be used for each plate member.

Thickness can be defined as the difference between the two surfaces of the elevation device. Preferably, the longitudinal direction of the profiles is arranged from the top edge to the bottom edge of the elevation device.

In a further advantageous embodiment, said elevation device comprises, at least in the situation of use, at least one bend, where said at least one bend extends from said top edge to said bottom edge.

If the elevation device comprises one bend, it will have a cross-section, which is formed as a V. This embodiment comprises two open-ended first slots, which are ar- ranged one on each side of the bend enabling the legs of the V each to engage with the beam.

In another embodiment, the elevation device comprises two bends and three open- ended first slots, which all engage with the beam. The elevation device comprises a first open-ended first slot, a first bend, a second open-ended first slot, a second bend and a third open-ended first slot. The elevation device thus crosses the beam three times and has a cross-section which is substantially N-shaped.

It is implicitly to be understood that the number of bends can be any number such as one, two, three, four, five, six etc.

In a further embodiment, the elevation device can comprise two bends, but only two open-ended first slots for engaging with the beam. The embodiment thus comprises three connected parts where only two parts comprise open-ended first slots. Preferably, the third part is a connecting part which connects the two parts - legs - having an open-ended first slot.

In a further embodiment, the elevation device comprises a bend at the end of one or both legs for further stabilisation of the elevation device.

In an advantageous embodiment, the elevation device is formed as a hollow structure. In a further advantageous embodiment, the hollow structure is open at said top edge. Advantageously, the hollow elevation device can be filled with insulating material after it has been arranged onto the beam.

Advantageously, the elevation device is open at the top edge allowing insulating mate- rial to be easily arranged into the elevation device.

In one embodiment, the elevation device comprises four bends, but only two open- ended first slots for engaging with the beam. In this embodiment, the cross-section of the elevation device is the circumference of a rectangle i.e. the elevation device is a closed structure being hollow.

In a further embodiment, the elevation device is formed as a tube having two open- ended first slots for engaging with the beam. This invention further describes a method for installing an elevated surface where a plurality of elevation devices as described above being fitted over beams, where each beam comprises an outer surface and where said elevation devices are fitted over said outer surface of said beam; where said elevation device elevates the elevated surface above an additional insulation layer by forming a distance between said elevated sur- face and said beam; said elevation device comprising a top edge for supporting an elevated surface; and a bottom edge for resting on a beam; where said bottom edge comprises at least two open-ended first slots; where said at least two open-ended first slots are adapted for fitting over a beam and fixating said elevation device on said beam, where said open-ended first slots are arranged at a mutual distance allowing said open- ended first slots to be arranged onto the same beam;

- where said open-ended first slots are fitted over said beam aligning the bottom of said open-ended first slots with said top surface of said beam; and

- where an elevated surface is fitted over the top of a plurality of eleva- tion devices arranged on adjacent beams.

A system comprising a plurality of elevation devices and at least one elevated surface can be installed in the following way: The elevation devices are fitted over the outer surface of the beams by arranging the beam into the open-ended first slot arranging the bottom of the open-ended first slot on top of the outer surface of the beam. More elevation devices are arranged on each beam in addition to arranging elevation devices onto adjacent beams. After the elevation devices are arranged, the elevated surface is placed on the top edge of the elevation devices. The elevated surface can be attached to the attic storage supports by arranging top beams of the elevated surface into open- ended second slots if present on the elevation devices and hereafter attach a plate to the top beams. By outer surface is to be understood the surface of the beam being available for engagement with the elevation device. For a horizontal beam such as a floor joist this would be the top surface of the beam.

The elevated surface can in one embodiment comprise one or more plates arranged adjacent on the top of a plurality of elevation devices.

The elevation devices are fitted over the beam in a manner which enables the load of the elevated surface and potential storage to be equalised in order to avoid the elevated surface to compress the insulation. Thus, more elevation devices are to be arranged if heavy storage is arranged on top of the elevated surface than when light storage is on the elevated surface.

Description of the Drawing

Figure 1 A illustrates a first embodiment of an elevation device;

Figure IB illustrates a three-dimensional view of a first embodiment of an elevation device;

Figure 1C illustrates a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of an elevation device;

Figure 2A illustrates a second embodiment of an elevation device;

Figure 2B illustrates a three-dimensional view of a second embodiment of an elevation device; Figure 2C illustrates a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of an elevation device;

Figure 2D illustrates a cross-sectional view of a thirteenth embodiment of an elevation device;

Figure 3 A illustrates a third embodiment of an elevation device;

Figure 3B illustrates a three-dimensional view of a third embodiment of an elevation device;

Figure 3C illustrates a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of an elevation device;

Figure 4 A illustrates a fourth embodiment of an elevation device;

Figure 4B illustrates a three-dimensional view of a fourth embodiment of an elevation device;

Figure 4C illustrates a cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of an elevation device;

Figure 5 A illustrates a fifth embodiment of an elevation device;

Figure 5B illustrates a three-dimensional view of a fifth embodiment of an elevation device;

Figure 5C illustrates a cross-sectional view of a fifth embodiment of an elevation device;

Figure 6A illustrates a sixth embodiment of an elevation device;

Figure 6B illustrates a sixth embodiment of an elevation device arranged over a beam and with a top beam arranged parallel to the beam;

Figure 6C illustrates a sixth embodiment of an elevation device arranged over a beam and with a top beam arranged crosswise the beam;

Figure 7A illustrates a seventh embodiment of an elevation device arranged over a beam;

Figure 7B illustrates a close-up of the interaction of the seventh embodiment of the elevation device with the beam;

Figure 8 illustrates an eight embodiment of an elevation device arranged over a beam;

Figure 9 illustrates a ninth embodiment of an elevation device arranged over a beam; Figure 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a tenth embodiment of an elevation device arranged over a beam;

Figure 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an eleventh embodiment of an elevation device arranged over a beam;

Figure 12 illustrates an attic with seven twelfth embodiments of elevation devices arranged on joists for obtaining additional insulation.

Detailed Description of the Invention

Figure 1A, IB and 1C illustrates a first embodiment of an elevation device 101 in a front view, a three-dimensional view and a cross-sectional view, respectively. The ele- vation device 101 is a flexible plate-like member comprising a top edge 103 and a bottom edge 105.

Two open-ended first slots 107a,b opens towards the bottom edge 105 and are adapted for fitting over a beam (not shown). Each open-ended first slot comprises a first bot- torn 109a,b opposite of a first open end 111 a,b and two first sides 113a,b connecting said first open end 11 la,b with said first bottom 109a,b. The two open-ended first slots 107a,b are arranged at a mutual distance 114 allowing the open-ended first slots 107a,b to be arranged onto the same beam.

The top edge 103 is adapted for supporting an elevated surface (not shown). Hereby the elevation device, in the situation of use, forms a distance 115 between said elevated surface and said beam.

The elevation device 101 further comprises two open-ended second slots 117a,b, which opens towards the top edge 103. The open-ended second slot 117a,b comprises a second bottom 119a,b opposite of said second open end 121a,b and two second sides 123a,b connecting said second open end 121a,b with said second bottom 119a,b.

The elevation device 101 further comprises a perforation 125. The perforation 125 among other things increases the flexibility of the elevation device 101. The flexibility of the plate-like member is seen in use, where the elevation device 101 forms a U-shape as illustrated. The plate-like material of the elevation device 101 and the U-shape is clearly visible in figure 1C. The U-shaped can be preformed from the producer or formed by the user at use.

Figure 2 A, 2B and 2C illustrates a second embodiment of an elevation device 201 in a front view, a three-dimensional view and a cross-sectional view, respectively. The elevation device 201 is a flexible plate-like member comprising a top edge 203 and a bot- torn edge 205.

Two open-ended first slots 207a,b open towards the bottom edge 205 and are adapted for fitting over a beam (not shown). Each open-ended first slot comprises a first bottom 209a,b opposite of a first open end 211a,b and two first sides 213a,b connecting said first open end 21 la,b with said first bottom 209a,b.

The top edge 203 is adapted for supporting an elevated surface (not shown). Hereby the elevation device, in the situation of use, forms a distance 215 between said elevated surface and said beam.

The elevation device 201 further comprises two open-ended second slots 217a,b, which open towards the top edge 203. The open-ended second slot 217a,b comprises a second bottom 219a,b opposite of said second open end 221a,b and two second sides 223 a,b connecting said second open end 221a,b with said second bottom 219a,b.

The elevation device 201 further comprises a bend 227. The bend 227 forms the elevation device 201 into a V-shape having a first and a second leg 229a,b. Each leg being provided with an open-ended first slot 207a,b and an open-ended second slot 217a,b. The plate-like material of the elevation device 201 and the V-shape is clearly visible in figure 2C. The V-shaped can be preformed from the producer or formed by the user at use. Figure 2D illustrates a thirteenth embodiment of an elevation device 1301 having a V- shape as described in figures 2A-2C with a bend 1327a and two legs 1329a,b. Compared with figures 2A-2C this embodiment further comprises a bend 1327b,c at the end of the legs 1329b,c. The bending of the ends of the legs 1329b,c stabilises the elevation device 1301 and makes it more robust.

Figure 3A, 3B and 3C illustrates a third embodiment of an elevation device 301 in a front view, a three-dimensional view and a cross-sectional view, respectively. The elevation device 301 is a flexible plate-like member comprising a top edge 303 and a bot- torn edge 305.

Two open-ended first slots 307a,b open towards the bottom edge 305, as described in figure 1A, IB, 1C, 2A, 2B and 2C, and are adapted for fitting over a beam (not shown).

The elevation device 301 further comprises two open-ended second slots 317a,b, which open towards the top edge 303, as described in figure 1A, IB, 1C, 2A, 2B and 2C. The elevation device 301 further comprises two bends 327a,b. The bends 327a,b form the elevation device 301 into three parts having a first and a second leg 329a,b connected by a connecting part 331. Each leg being provided with an open-ended first slot 307a,b and an open-ended second slot 317a,b. Figure 4 A, 4B and 4C illustrates a fourth embodiment of an elevation device 401 in a front view, a three-dimensional view and a cross-sectional view, respectively. The elevation device 401 is a flexible plate-like member comprising a top edge 403 and a bottom edge 405. Three open-ended first slots 407a,b,c open towards the bottom edge 405, as described in figure 1A, IB, 1C, 2A, 2B and 2C, and are adapted for fitting over a beam (not shown). The elevation device 401 further comprises three open-ended second slots 417a,b,c, which open towards the top edge 403, as described in figure 1A, IB, IC, 2A, 2B and 2C. The elevation device 401 is made from a flexible plate-like material as illustrated in figure 4C, illustrating the shape of the elevation device 401 when in use. The shape of the elevation device 401 can be preformed from the producer or formed by the user at use. Figure 5 A, 5B and 5C illustrates a fifth embodiment of an elevation device 501 in a front view, a three-dimensional view and a cross-sectional view, respectively. The elevation device 501 is a flexible plate-like member comprising a top edge 503 and a bottom edge 505. Three open-ended first slots 507a,b,c open towards the bottom edge 505, as described in figures 1A, IB, IC, 2A, 2B and 2C, and are adapted for fitting over a beam (not shown).

The elevation device 501 further comprises three open-ended second slots 517a,b,c, which open towards the top edge 503, as described in figures 1A, IB, IC, 2A, 2B and 2C.

The elevation device 501 further comprises two bends 527a,b. The bends 527a,b form the elevation device 501 into three parts having a first, a second leg and a third leg 529a,b,c being connected. Each leg being provided with an open-ended first slot 507a,b,c and an open-ended second slot 517a,b,c.

The elevation device 501 furthermore comprises three perforations 525a,b,c. Figure 6A illustrates a sixth embodiment of an elevation device 601 in a three- dimensional view. The elevation device 601 is a flexible plate-like member comprising a top edge 603 and a bottom edge 605. Two open-ended first slots 607a,b open towards the bottom edge 605 and are adapted for fitting over a beam (not shown). Each open-ended first slot 607a,b comprises a first bottom 609a,b opposite of a first open end 611a,b and two first sides 613a,b connecting said first open end 61 la,b with said first bottom 609a,b.

The top edge 603 is adapted for supporting an elevated surface (not shown). Hereby the elevation device, in the situation of use, forms a distance 615 between said elevated surface and said beam. The elevation device 601 further comprises four open-ended second slots 617a,b,c,d, which open towards the top edge 603. The open-ended second slot 617a,b,c,d comprises a second bottom 619a,b,c,d and two second sides 623a,b,c,d.

Two spikes 633 are provided at each first and second bottom 609a,b, 619a,b,c,d. The spikes 633 are substantially perpendicular to the first 609a,b or second bottom 619a,b,c,d. The spikes 633 help maintaining the beam (not shown) or a top beam (not shown) in place in the open-ended first slot 607a,b or the open-ended second slot 617a,b,c,d, respectively. Furthermore, beards 635 are provided on the first sides 613a,b and the second sides 623a,b,c,d of the open-ended first slot 607a,b and open-ended second slot 617a,b,c,d. The beards 635 help maintaining the beam (not shown) or a top beam (not shown) in place in the open-ended first slot 607a,b or the open-ended second slot 617a,b,c,d, respectively.

The elevation device 601 further comprises a bend 627. The bend 627 forms the elevation device 601 into a V-shape having a first and a second leg 629a,b. Each leg being provided with an open-ended first slot 607a,b and two open-ended second slots 617a,b,c,d.

The elevation device 601 furthermore comprises two perforations 625a,b. Figure 6B and 6C illustrates a sixth embodiment of an elevation device 601 as described in relation with figure 6A, where the elevation device 601 is fitted over a beam 637 and further engages with an elevated surface in form of a top beam 639. The beam 637 is fitted into the open-ended first slot 607a,b of the elevation device 601, hereby allowing the outer surface 645 of the beam 637 to come into contact with the first bottom 609a,b of the open-ended first slot 607a,b. The elevation device 601 is maintained in place due to the width of the open-ended first slot fitting to the size of the beam 637.

In figure 6B the top beam 639 is arranged into two open-ended second slots 617a,b,c,d and is arranged substantially parallel with the beam 637.

In figure 6C, the top beam 639 is arranged into one open-ended second slot 617a,b,c,d and is arranged crosswise to the beam 637.

More top beams 639 can be arranged in the remaining open-ended second slots 617a,b,c,d of the elevation device 601. Figure 7A illustrates a seventh embodiment of an elevation device 701 in a three- dimensional view. The elevation device 701 is a flexible plate-like member comprising a top edge 703 and a bottom edge 705. The elevation device 701 comprises two bends 727a,b and is substantially N-shaped. Three open-ended first slots 707a,b,c open towards the bottom edge 705 and are adapted for fitting over a beam 737. Each open-ended first slot 707a,b,c is provided with beards 735.

The three open-ended first slots 707a,b,c are fitted over a beam 737 and the beards 735 prevent the elevation device 701 from being displaced from its position. The elevation device 701 further comprises three open-ended second slots 717a,b,c, which open towards the top edge 703. The open-ended second slots 717a,b,c are provided with beards 735. The top edge 703 is adapted for supporting an elevated surface, in this embodiment in the form of a top beam 739. The top beam 739 is engaged with the open-ended second slots 717a,b,c and is kept in place due to the beards 735 on the second sides 713a,b,c. Hereby the elevation device 701, in the situation of use, forms a distance 715 between said elevated surface 739 and said beam 737.

Figure 7B illustrates a close-up of an open-ended second slot 717 engaged with a top beam 739. Two beards 735a,b,c,d are provided on each of the second sides 723a,b. The beards 735a,b,c,d comprise an inclined side 741 and a substantially perpendicular side 743, where the inclined side 741 slopes towards the second open end 721. Due to the inclined side 741 of the beards 735a,b,c,d, the top beam 739 is easily engaged with the open-ended second slot 717. However, due to the substantially perpendicular side 743, the top beam 739 is not as easily removed since the beards 735a,b,c,d will engage with the top beam 739 and prevent the top beam 739 from being moved. Figure 8 illustrates an eight embodiment of an elevation device 801 in a three- dimensional view. The elevation device 801 is a flexible plate-like member comprising a top edge 803 and a bottom edge 805. The elevation device 801 comprises two bends 827a,b and is substantially N-shaped. Three open-ended first slots 807a,b,c open towards the bottom edge 805 and are adapted for fitting over a beam 837.

The top edge 803 is adapted for supporting an elevated surface (not shown). Hereby the elevation device 801, in the situation of use, forms a distance 815 between said elevated surface (not shown) and said beam 837.

Figure 9 illustrates a ninth embodiment of an elevation device 901 in a three- dimensional view. The elevation device 901 is a flexible plate-like member comprising a top edge 903 and a bottom edge 905. The elevation device 901 comprises two bends 927a,b which separate the elevation device 901 into two legs 929a,b and a connecting part 931, where the legs 929a,b each are provided with one open-ended first slot 907a,b.

Two open-ended first slots 907a,b open towards the bottom edge 905 and are adapted for fitting over a beam 937. The top edge 903 is adapted for supporting an elevated surface (not shown). Figure 10 illustrates a tenth embodiment of an elevation device 1001 in a cross- sectional view. The elevation device 1001 is arranged over a beam 1037 and is a closed, hollow structure. The elevation device 1001 has four bends 1027a,b,c,d, two legs 1029a,b comprising an open-ended first slot and two connecting parts 1031a,b. The two connecting parts 1031a,b connect the two legs 1029a,b comprising the open- ended first slots and are arranged on either side of the beam 1037. The tenth embodiment thus forms the circumference of a rectangle when viewed in a cross-sectional view.

Figure 11 illustrates an eleventh embodiment of an elevation device 1101 in a cross- sectional view. The elevation device 1101 is arranged over a beam 1137 and is a closed, hollow structure. The eleventh embodiment of the elevation device 1101 is formed as a tube having two open-ended first slots at the bottom edge for engaging with the beam 1137. Figure 12 illustrates an attic 1247 provided with beams 1237a,b,c in the form of a horizontal joist 1237a and rafters 1237b, c. Three elevation devices 1201a,b,c are attached to the horizontal joist 1237a and two elevation devices 1201d,e,f,g are attached to each rafter 1237b, c. A top beam 1239a,b,c is inserted into the open-ended second slots 1221a,b. Additional insulation can be arranged in the space 1249a,b,c formed by the elevation devices 1201a,b,c,d,e,f,g between the beams 1237a,b,c and the top beams 1239a,b,c. The twelfth embodiment of the elevation devices 1201a,b,c,d,e,f,g as illustrated in this figure resemble the elevation device 201 as illustrated in figure 2a-c having two open- ended first slots 1207a,b and two open-ended second slots 1221a,b and a bend 1227 having a substantially V-shaped form.

However, in this embodiment the elevation devices 1201a,b,c,d,e,f,g are provided with beards 1235. The beards 1235 enable the elevation devices 1201a,b,c,d,e,f,g to remain in a given position preventing the elevation devices 1201d,e,f,g from detaching from the rafters 1237b,c and furthermore preventing the top beams 1239b,c from detaching from the elevation devices 1201d,e,f,g.

The beams 1237a,b,c are inserted into the open-ended first slots 1207a,b. In one elevation device 1201b, the part of the elevation device on the other side of the joist 1237a and the top beam 1239a is indicated by dotted lines 1251.