This invention relates to a seam device and more specifically, but not exclusively, this invention relates to a seam device for providing a seam, dam or seal between surfaces for inhibiting ingress of materials, such as fluid and/or solid waste therebetween.

Work surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms or water closets are often covered by a hard wipeable protective coating such as a laminated coating of melamine resin. This type of coating is often applied to a low cost material, such as medium density fiber-board (MDF) or chipboard. However, the coating is usually applied only to the areas of the chipboard that are visible in use in order to save cost and to enable fixing of support and attachment members to the uncovered areas of the work surface.

Waste materials are sometimes directed accidentally toward unprotected regions of such work surfaces, for example where spillages occur and fluids seep between the work surface and a surface against which, or adjacent to which, it is mounted. This surface is often fitted with tiles, splashbacks and/or upstands, either for decorative or functional reasons. The part of a work surface normally abutting a wall is generally uncoated, and so water may come into contact with the underlying material, i.e. chipboard or MDF. This material is liable to expand on contact with water, thus causing irreversible damage to the work surface as the coating, liable to stretch, bubble and crack.

It is common practice when fitting such work surfaces to seal the joint between the work surface and the wall, tiles, splashback or upstand with a bead of silicone caulking. However, this process requires a great deal of care and skill in order to produce a seam that blends consistently the adjacent surfaces. Over time, the materials can expand, contract, bow or bend, which may also cause the silicone bead to stretch and/or split.

Another solution is proposed by WO9609783, which discloses an upstand mounting assembly including an elongate upstand member and an elongate mounting member having a pair of orthogonal mounting flanges for attachment to a wall and a workshelf respectively along their junction. Each flange includes a longitudinal lip to receive and retain the upstand member, wherein the lip on the horizontal flange acts as a dam for inhibiting ingress of fluid. Silicone caulking is also used to seal other joints, for example between the edges of uPVC windows, between bath tubs and adjacent tiled walls or between urinals and the walls to which they are mounted, which may also include tiles and/or splashbacks fitted thereto. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the arrangement of WO9609783 is not suitable for such applications.

There is therefore a need for an alternative arrangement for providing a seam, dam or seal between surfaces for inhibiting ingress of fluids and/or solid waste.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided an elongate seaming device comprising a deformable longitudinal lip or edge and an attachment means for attaching the seaming device along a join between two adjacent surfaces, wherein the lip or edge is configured to deform, in use, against a surface adjacent a join along which the device is attached to provide a substantially continuous seam.

Thus, the invention provides a seaming device that enables a seam to be provided along a join between two adjacent surfaces through simple attachment. For the avoidance of doubt, the term "join" as used herein means the coming together of the two surfaces, but does not mean that these surfaces are in contact with one another. Indeed, embodiments of the seaming device are intended to maintain a seam between such surfaces that are movable relative to one another, for example the join between a bath tub surface and a wall. Moreover, the term "seam" encompasses an aesthetic seam and a functional seam that could, but need not, function as a dam or seal for preventing or at least inhibiting ingress and/or egress of fluids and the like.

The device may comprise a pair of longitudinal lips or edges, each of which may be configured to deform, in use, against a respective surface that may be adjacent and/or on each side of a join along which the device is attached, e.g. to provide a substantially continuous seam. The or each longitudinal lip or edge may comprise a sharp or relatively sharp edge that may contact the or the respective surface.

The device may comprise an elongate seam element, which may be flexible and/or may comprise a member or body or bead. The seam element may comprise the longitudinal lip(s) or edge(s), or the longitudinal lip(s) or edge(s) may be connected thereto or integral therewith. The seam element may comprise first and second surfaces. The first and second surfaces may be configured to extend along and/or parallel to, and optionally in contact with, a respective one of the two adjacent surfaces of the join. The first and second surfaces of the seam element or member may comprise mounting surfaces.

For clarity, the term "mounting surface" will be used hereinafter when referring to the first and second surfaces, but such term may be replaced with "surface" in the claims or elsewhere.

The or each lip or edge may comprise a longitudinal lip extending along an edge of the device or of the seam element. In some embodiments, the or each lip or edge extends from the seam element, for example at an angle relative to the or one of the first or second mounting surface, e.g. so as to deform as the device is attached along the join. The or each lip or edge may be wedge shaped and/or may comprise a strip or flipper or flap or wedge element. Preferably, the or each lip or edge is tapered or comprises a tapered lip. The or each lip may taper to provide a sharp edge.

In some embodiments, the attachment means is comprised in and/or extends along and/or is associated with one, e.g. only one, of the first and second mounting surfaces. The attachment means may comprise an attachment member or layer, such as an adhesive layer or strip, which may comprise a tape, e.g. a double face tape, or glue or a layer or strip of glue. The adhesive layer or strip may be covered by a release liner, which may be removable, in use, e.g. prior to attachment to one of the surfaces of the join. The attachment means may extend along and/or be associated with one, e.g. only one, of the first and second mounting surfaces and/or may be mounted thereon. Preferably, the lip or edge is associated with the other of the first and second mounting surfaces. More preferably, the device comprises a pair of longitudinal lips or edges, each of which is associated with a respective one of the first and second mounting surfaces.

Providing an attachment means that is associated with one of the first and second mounting surfaces, and associating the longitudinal lip or edge with the other, permits relative movement between the adjacent surfaces of the join whilst maintaining a seam or seal therebetween. In alternative embodiments, the attachment means extends along and/or is associated with both of the first and second mounting surfaces. The seam element may comprise a mounting side, which may comprise the first and/or second mounting surfaces. The first and second mounting surfaces preferably extend at an angle relative to one another, e.g. an angle that corresponds to an angle between the two adjacent surfaces of the join. In some embodiments, the mounting side of the seam element is triangular or substantially triangular in shape or in cross section, for example it may comprise a truncated triangular shape or other modified triangular shape. The first and second mounting surfaces may comprise sides of the triangle and/or the or each longitudinal lip or edge may be at or adjacent an outer edge of the triangle, for example an outer edge of the base of the triangle, and/or extend therefrom. In embodiments, the or each lip may extend from one or a respective one of the first and second mounting surfaces, for example from one or a respective one of the outer edges of the triangle, for example an outer edge of the base of the triangle.

Additionally or alternatively, the device may comprise a spine, which may extend along and/or from the seam element, for example intermediate its longitudinal edges. In some embodiments, the seam element may comprise or be provided by the spine. In embodiments, the spine may comprise or provide the attachment means. The attachment means or spine may be configured to be received and retained, in use, within a gap between the two adjacent surfaces, for example such that the seam element or member contacts and/or deforms against each of the adjacent surfaces, e.g. to provide a substantially continuous seam therebetween.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided an elongate seaming device for providing a seam along a join between two adjacent surfaces, the device comprising an elongate flexible seam element or member and a spine extending along and from the seam element or member intermediate its longitudinal edges, wherein the spine is configured to be received and retained, in use, within a gap between two adjacent surfaces such that the seam element or member contacts and/or deforms against each of the adjacent surfaces to provide a substantially continuous seam therebetween.

The seaming device may be configured for providing a seam along a join between two adjacent surfaces that are at an angle with respect to one another. The adjacent surfaces may be at an acute or right or obtuse or reflex angle with respect to one another, preferably an angle of less than 180°, more preferably 150° or less, for example 120° or less, e.g. between 75° and 105°, such as approximately orthogonal or substantially 90°. The seam element or member may be configured to deform, in use, against each of the adjacent surfaces to provide a curved, e.g. concave, seam or dam or seal therebetween.

The seaming device is preferably configured to provide, in use, a substantially continuous dam that at least inhibits, more preferably prevents, ingress of fluids and/or solid waste. Most preferably, the seaming device is configured to provide, in use, a substantially continuous seal between the two surfaces. The seam or dam or seal is preferably provided by virtue of the close contact between the deformed seam element or member and the surfaces.

In some embodiments, the seam device comprises a substantially T-shaped cross section, for example wherein the spine comprises a stem portion of the T-shaped cross section, while the seam element or member comprises a flange portion thereof. The spine or stem portion may be orthogonal or perpendicular or may be skewed with respect to the seam element or member or flange portion.

Additionally or alternatively, the spine may extend at an angle with respect to the seam element or member, for example orthogonal or perpendicular or at any other angle with respect thereto. More preferably, the spine extends at an obtuse or acute angle with respect to the seam element or member, for example between 15° and 75°, preferably between 20° and 70°, more preferably between 25° and 65°, most preferably between 30° and 60°, for example between 40° and 50°, e.g. approximately 45°. Where the portion of the seam element or member from which the spine extends is curved, the aforementioned angles may be with respect to a tangential direction thereof. Where the portion of the seam element or member from which the spine extends forms an acute or right or obtuse or reflex angle, the spine may extend therefrom at half the angle formed by the seam element or member, but preferably the spine extends therefrom at an angle other than half the angle formed by the seam element or member, for example at an angle that is substantially one quarter of the angle formed by the seam element or member.

Additionally or alternatively, the spine may extend from a central or substantially central portion of the seam element or member. However, in some embodiments, the spine extends from a portion of the seam element or member that is adjacent to, e.g. but spaced from, one of the longitudinal edges thereof. The seam element or member preferably comprises a first portion or side, for example from which the spine extends and/or a second side, e.g. configured to form a visible portion of the seam in use. The shape of the seam element or member, e.g. the shape of the first side thereof, is preferably selected to provide a predetermined degree of deformation, in use, of the seam element or member when it is received and retained within the gap. For example, the first side of the seam element or member may comprise the portion of the seam element or member that contacts and/or deforms against each of the adjacent surfaces. The first side of the seam element or member may form an acute or right or obtuse angle or be substantially concave, e.g. for a relatively large degree of deformation. Alternatively, the first side of the seam element or member may form a reflex angle or be substantially convex, e.g. for a relatively small degree of deformation. Alternatively, the first side of the seam element or member may form a substantially straight angle, e.g. for an intermediate degree of deformation.

The seam element or member may further comprise a second portion or side, which may be an opposite side thereof from the first portion or side. The second side may be selected to provide a substantially continuous seam having a predetermined shape and/or appearance in use, for example a flat or chamfered or curved or concave or convex shape or fillet radius.

The seam element or member may further comprise first and second longitudinal edges, at least one of which may be sharp and/or formed by intersecting surfaces extending at an acute angle relative to one another. In some embodiments, the longitudinal edges are formed by first and second major surfaces, for example at a respective intersection thereof, e.g. wherein the first portion or side comprises the first major surface and/or the second portion or side comprises the second major surface.

In some embodiments, the seam element or member or first portion or side or second portion or side further comprises one or more lateral surfaces, for example wherein the or each lateral surface extends between the first and second major surfaces, e.g. wherein at least one of the longitudinal edges is formed by a lateral surface and one of the first and second major surfaces, e.g. at a respective intersection thereof. The seam element or member may comprise first and second lateral surfaces, wherein the first lateral surface extends between the first and second major surfaces and forms a first of the longitudinal edges, while the second lateral surface extends between the first and second major surfaces and forms a second of the longitudinal edges. In some embodiments, the first lateral surface forms the first longitudinal edge with the first major surface and the second lateral surface forms the second longitudinal edge with the second major surface. In other embodiments, the first and second lateral surfaces each form a respective one of the first and second longitudinal edges with the first major surface. In yet further embodiments, the first and second lateral surfaces each form a respective one of the first and second longitudinal edges with the second major surface.

The seam element or member may comprise a strip or band, which may comprise one or more major surfaces, for example the first and second major surfaces, e.g. wherein the first portion or side comprises the first major surface and/or the second portion or side comprises the second major surface. At least one of the major surfaces may be substantially flat in an unstrained or unflexed or pre-installation condition. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the major surfaces may be curved, e.g. concave or convex, in an unstrained or unflexed or pre-installation condition.

In some embodiments, one major surface is substantially flat and another major surface is curved or concave or convex in an unstrained or unflexed or pre-installation condition. The spine may extend along and from a first, substantially flat major surface of the seam element or member. A second major surface, which may be on an opposite side of the seam element or member, may be curved or concave or convex.

In some embodiments, both major surfaces are substantially flat in an unstrained or unflexed or pre-installation condition. In other embodiments, the first major surface is substantially flat in an unstrained or unflexed or pre-installation condition surface, e.g. wherein the spine extends along and from the first surface, while a second major surface may be curved or concave or convex in unstrained or unflexed or pre-installation condition. In yet further embodiments, both major surfaces may be curved or concave or convex in unstrained or unflexed or pre-installation condition, for example a first major surface may be convex while a second major surface may be concave. Where both major surfaces are curved or concave or convex, the spine may extend along and from a concave major surface, for example where a relatively large degree of deformation of the seam element or member is desirable. Alternatively, the spine may extend along and from a convex major surface. The seam device may comprise a bracket or mounting element or member, which may comprise or provide the spine. In some embodiments, the bracket or mounting element or member comprises a pair of flange portions extending at an angle, for example orthogonally or perpendicularly, with respect to one another. A first of the flange portions may comprise or provide the spine, for example wherein the seam element or member may be located or incorporated or mounted or secured along a free edge of the first flange portion, e.g. to define a recess between at least part of a second of the flange portions and at least part of the seam element or member.

The first flange portion may comprise a weakened or thinned or frangible portion or region or line, for example at a location or position between the second flange portion and the free end or seam element or member. The weakened or thinned or frangible portion or region or line may comprise a recess or depression in or on one or both of the major surfaces of the first flange portion. The thickness of the weakened or thinned or frangible portion or region or line is preferably 75% or less of the thickness of at least a portion of the first flange portion, e.g. the rest of the first flange portion. More preferably, the thickness of the weakened or thinned or frangible portion or region or line is 60% or less of the thickness of at least a portion of the first flange portion, e.g. the rest of the first flange portion. Most preferably, the thickness of the weakened or thinned or frangible portion or region or line is 55% or less, for example approximately 50% or less, of the thickness of at least a portion of the first flange portion, e.g. the rest of the first flange portion.

Additionally or alternatively, the weakened or thinned or frangible portion or region or line is preferably narrow relative to the width of the first flange portion, e.g. thereby to provide a line along which the seam device may be severed. Preferably, the weakened or thinned or frangible portion or region or line is 50% or less, for example 40% or less, e.g. 30% or less of the width of the first flange portion. More preferably, the width of the weakened or thinned or frangible portion or region or line is 25% or less, e.g. 20% or less, of the width of the first flange portion. Most preferably, the width of the weakened or thinned or frangible portion or region or line is 15% or less of the width of the first flange portion.

The spine may comprise a different, for example stiffer, material than the seam element or member. For example, the seam element or member may comprise a resilient and/or flexible and/or elastic and/or elastomeric material, whereas the spine or first flange portion of the seam device may comprise a stiffer and/or more rigid and/or high or higher impact material. Preferably, the seam element or member and the spine or first flange portion both comprise a plastics and/or polymeric material. In some embodiments, the seam element or member and the spine or first flange portion each comprise a different grade or compound of the same or a similar plastics or polymeric material. For example, the seam element or member may comprise a flexible polyvinylchloride (PVC) material and/or the spine or first flange portion may comprise a high impact PVC material. Alternatively, the seam element or member may comprise a different resilient or flexible material, for example a silicone or natural rubber material and/or the spine or first flange portion may comprise a PVC or some other material, which need not be a plastics material.

In another class of embodiments, the seam element or member and the spine or first flange portion may comprise the same material, which is preferably a resilient and/or flexible and/or elastic and/or elastomeric material. For example, both the seam element or member and the spine or first flange portion may comprise a flexible polyvinylchloride (PVC) material.

The spine and the seam element or member may be formed integrally with one another and/or may form an integral or unitary structure. Where the spine and seam element or member are formed of dissimilar materials, one of the spine and seam element or member may be moulded or overmoulded onto the other of the spine and seam element or member. Preferably, the seam device is an extruded section and/or formed by an extrusion process and/or comprises a substantially uniform cross-section.

The spine may comprise one or more formations, for example engaging or retaining or fastening formations. The one or more formations may comprise one or more depressions or projections in or on an external surface of the spine. In some embodiments, the spine comprises two or more depressions or thinned portions on or in or of and/or extending along one or each major surface thereof. The thicker portion or portions of the spine between the depressions and/or between at least one of the depressions and the terminal end of the spine may be configured to be compressed, in use, on insertion into a gap between the two adjacent surfaces, e.g. thereby to provide an interference fit with the gap. Additionally or alternatively, the seam device may be configured for installation with an adhesive or filler or silicone caulking within one or more of the depressions. In some embodiments, the seam device may comprise one or more projections or ribs or spikes or barbs, which may be elongate and/or may extend from the spine, for example at an angle, e.g. toward the seam element or member. The or each projection or rib or spike or barb may extend perpendicularly or orthogonally with respect to the spine, but preferably they extend at an acute angle with respect thereto, e.g. toward the seam element or member. The acute angle may comprise any angle less than 90°, but preferably comprises an angle of between 15° and 75°, more preferably between 30° and 60° and most preferably between 40° and 50°, e.g. approximately 45°. The or each projection or rib or spike or barb may comprise a tapered cross-section, e.g. thinning from the spine to its free end.

The projections or ribs or spikes or barbs may be located or positioned on and/or extend from and/or along one or each major surface of the spine. The seam device may comprise a plurality of projections or ribs or spikes or barbs and/or at least two of the projections may have a different shape or configuration or length. Advantageously, the projections or ribs or spikes or barbs may comprise an alternating shape or configuration or length, for example alternating between long and short. The one or more projections or ribs or spikes or barbs may be configured to deform and/or compress, in use, on insertion into a gap between the two adjacent surfaces, e.g. thereby to provide an interference fit with the gap. Additionally or alternatively, the seam device may be configured for installation with an adhesive or filler or silicone caulking adjacent, on or between the one or more projections or ribs or spikes or barbs.

Another aspect of the invention provides an upstand assembly, which may comprise a seam device as described above. The upstand assembly preferably comprises an upstand member, which may be principally made of a compacted material, for example a medium density fibreboard material or chipboard or plywood, and/or may comprise a protective coating on at least a portion thereof.

Another aspect of the invention provides an upstand assembly, for example as described above, mounted on a work surface. When a protective coating is provided on the upstand member, the same protective coating may be provided on the work surface. Preferably, the upstand member is made from the same material as the work surface. The upstand member may be the same as the front edge of the work surface, and, for example, may be out from a sheet of the same material as the work surface.

Another aspect of the invention provides an elongate seaming element, e.g. for use in an elongate seam device as described above. The element may comprise an elongate body and/or a deformable longitudinal lip, e.g. wherein the edge is configured to deform, in use, against a surface adjacent a join along which the device is attached to provide a substantially continuous seam. The element may comprise any one or more features described above.

Another aspect of the invention provides a kit of parts for assembly into an elongate seam device, e.g. as described above. The kit may comprise an elongate seaming element, e.g. as described above, and/or an attachment means, such as an adhesive strip.

Further aspects of the invention provide a seam device, e.g. as described above, specifically adapted for use in filling a gap between a window frame and window sill and/or specifically adapted for use in providing a seam between sanitary ware, such as a toilet or urinal, and a wall or floor and/or specifically adapted for use in providing a seam between one or more parts of a bath or shower and a wall or floor. Yet further aspects of the invention provide a window assembly incorporating the seam device and/or a sanitary ware item, such as a toilet or urinal assembly, incorporating the seam device and/or a shower or bath assembly incorporating the seam device.

A further aspect of the invention provides a method of producing or preparing a seam along a join between two adjacent surfaces, the method comprising attaching along a join between two adjacent surfaces a seam device with a deformable longitudinal lip or edge such that the lip or edge deforms against a surface adjacent a join along which the device is attached to provide a substantially continuous seam.

The method may comprise attaching the attachment means, which may comprise an adhesive strip, to the seam device prior to attaching the seam device along the join. The method may further comprise removing a release liner from the attachment means.

A yet further aspect of the invention provides a method of producing or preparing a seam along a join between two adjacent surfaces, the method comprising the steps of providing a seam device comprising an elongate flexible seam element or member and a spine extending along and from the seam element or member intermediate its longitudinal edges, installing the spine within a gap between the two adjacent surfaces such that the seam element or member contacts and/or deforms against each of the adjacent surfaces to provide a substantially continuous seam therebetween.

The method may further comprise filling the gap with an adhesive or filler or caulking, e.g. silicone caulking, before, during or after installation of the spine therein.

For the avoidance of doubt, any of the features described herein apply equally to any aspect of the invention. For example and more specifically, method features or steps that would be apparent to the skilled person from one or more features of the device described above are expressly envisaged and may be incorporated into the claims.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a section view of an elongate seaming device according to a first embodiment of the invention for use with an upstand;

Figure 2 is a section view of an elongate seaming device according to a second embodiment of the invention also for use with an upstand;

Figure 3 is a section view of a part seaming device severed from the seaming device of Figure 1 ;

Figure 4 is a partial section view of an upstand assembly mounted to a work surface and incorporating the seaming devices of Figures 2 and 3;

Figure 5 is a section view of an elongate seaming device according to a third embodiment of the invention;

Figure 6 is a section view of an elongate seaming device according to a fourth embodiment of the invention; Figure 7 is a section view of an elongate seaming device according to a fifth embodiment of the invention;

Figure 8 is a section view of an elongate seaming device according to a sixth embodiment of the invention;

Figure 9 is a section view of an elongate seaming device according to a seventh embodiment of the invention;

Figure 10 is a section view of an elongate seaming device according to an eighth embodiment of the invention;

Figure 1 1 is a section view of an elongate seaming device according to a ninth embodiment of the invention;

Figure 12 is a section view of an elongate seaming device according to a tenth embodiment of the invention;

Figure 13 is a plan view of a window fitted within a window sill and including a seaming device according to the seventh embodiment of the invention;

Figure 14 is a part section view along line A-A of Figure 13;

Figure 15 is a plan view of a urinal mounted on a wall and including a seaming device according to the seventh embodiment of the invention;

Figure 16 is a part section view along line B-B of Figure 15;

Figure 17 is a section view of an elongate seaming device according to another embodiment of the invention;

Figure 18 is a part section view of a join between a bath tub and a wall to which the seaming device of Figure 17 has been attached;

Figure 19 is a section view of a variation to the seaming device of Figure 17; and Figure 20 is a section view of another variation to the seaming device of Figures 17 and 19.

Referring now to Figure 1 , there is shown an elongate seaming device 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention for providing a seam along a join between an upstand 5 and a work surface 6. The seaming device 1 according to this embodiment includes an L- shaped mounting bracket 10 with first and second orthogonal flanges 1 1 , 12 and a dam element 13. The first flange 11 extends horizontally and the dam element 13 extends along and upwardly from its free edge such that a recess is defined between the dam element 13 and the second flange 12 for receiving the upstand 5. In this embodiment, the dam element 13 is formed of a flexible polyvinylchloride (PVC) material and the mounting bracket 10 is formed of a high impact PVC material. The seaming device 1 is formed integrally by an extrusion process.

The first flange 11 includes a thinned or frangible portion 11 a between the second flange

12 and the free end or dam element 13. In this embodiment, the thinned or frangible portion 11 a is provided by a recess or depression 11 a in an upper major surface of the first flange 11. The recess 1 1a is slightly off-centre, is located on the dam element 13 side of the first flange 11 and it has a thickness of approximately half of the remainder of the first flange 1 1 and a width that is roughly 15% of the width of the first flange 11 .

The recess 11 a enables the seaming device 1 to be severed therealong to provide a seam device 1 ' with a spine 1 1 b but without the bracket 1 1 , 12. This may be beneficial, for example, where it is necessary to provide a seam between the upstand 5 and one or more tiles 7, as shown more clearly in Figure 4.

The dam element 13 in this embodiment includes a first, substantially straight or flat rear side or surface 14a, a second, concavely curved front side or surface 14b, a flat upper lateral side or surface 15a and a flat lower lateral side or surface 15b. The dam element

13 also includes an upper longitudinal edge 13a defined by the intersection between the first surface 14a and the upper lateral surface 15a and a lower longitudinal edge 13b defined by the intersection between the second surface 14b and the lower lateral surface 15b. Each of the intersections forming the longitudinal edges 13a, 13b of the dam element 13 is formed by an acute angle between the surfaces 14a, 15a and 14b, 15b, thereby providing relatively sharp edges 13a, 13b.

The free end of the first flange 11 is connected to the first side 14a of the dam element 13 intermediate its longitudinal edges 13a, 13b, but nearer the lower longitudinal edge 13b. The angle between the first side 14a of the dam element 13 and the first flange 1 1 is acute, which provides an interference fit between the seam device 1 and the upstand 5.

Referring now to Figure 2, there is shown an elongate seaming device 2 according to a second embodiment, similar to the seaming device 1 of Figure 1 , wherein like references depict like features which will not be described further. The seaming device 2 according to this embodiment differs from that of Figure 1 in that the first flange 211 of the bracket 210 is wider than the flange element 1 1 of the seaming device 1 of Figure 1 in order to accommodate a wider upstand member.

In use and as shown in Figure 4, the seaming device 2 is fastened to a work surface 6 in a position in which it abuts an adjacent wall 8 using an adhesive on the underside of the first flange 211 along its length. This operation deforms the lower portion of the dam element 13 between the first flange 1 1 and the second longitudinal edge 13b against the work surface 6. Similarly, a severed seam device V is also fastened to an upper surface of the upstand 5 using an adhesive on the underside of the spine 11 b along its length, which also deforms the equivalent portion of its dam element 13 against the upper surface of the upstand 5.

The upstand 5 is then inserted into the recess between the second flange 12 and the dam element 13 and is retained therein by an interference fit. It may also be desirable to include an adhesive (not shown) between the upstand 5 and the wall 8 to fix the upstand in place. The tiles 7 are then affixed to the wall 8 by spreading an adhesive 80 onto the wall and/or the tiles 7 and inserting the tiles 7 into a recess defined between the dam element 13 of the severed seam device V and the wall 8.

Turning now to Figure 5, there is shown a seam device 100 according to a further embodiment of the invention. The seam device 100 according to this embodiment includes an elongate flexible seam member 1 13 and a spine 1 11 extending along and from a central portion of the seam member 113 at an angle of approximately 45°. The shape of the seam member 113 according to this embodiment is similar to the shape of the dam element 13 of the first embodiment, wherein like references depict like features which will not be described further. The spine 111 according to this embodiment includes two thinned portions defined by two pairs of depressions 1 11 a, 1 11 b on opposite sides of the spine 111.

In Figure 6, there is shown a seam device 200 according to a yet further embodiment of the invention. The seam device 200 according to this embodiment includes an elongate flexible seam member 213 with a first, convex rear side or surface 214a from which a spine 211 extends along a central portion there. The spine 211 in this embodiment extends at an angle of approximately 45° with respect to a tangential direction of the convex rear side or surface 214a. The spine 21 1 includes a plurality of projections along its length having spike-shaped cross-sections extending at an angle of approximately 45° relative to the spine 21 1 and inclined toward the seam member 213 to form a plurality of elongate barbs 211 a. The seam member 213 also includes a second, concave front side or surface 214b having a larger radius of curvature than the first surface 214a, wherein the first and second surfaces intersect at the top and bottom of the seam member 213 to define relatively sharp edges 213a, 213b

Figure 7 illustrates a seam device 300 according to a yet further embodiment of the invention. The seam device 300 according to this embodiment includes a seam member 113 similar to that of the embodiment of Figure 5 in combination with a spine 211 similar to that of the embodiment of Figure 6, wherein like references depict like features which will not be described further.

Figure 8 illustrates a seam device 400 according to another embodiment of the invention, similar to the seam device 300 of Figure 7, but where the flat upper lateral side or surface 415a of the seam member 413 forms an upper longitudinal edge 413a with the second surface 14b, rather than with the first surface 14a. This seam member 413 provides a more continuous radius along the seam when fitted.

Figure 9 illustrates a seam device 500 according to another embodiment of the invention, similar to the seam device 300 of Figure 7, but where the flat lower lateral side or surface 515b of the seam member 513 forms a lower longitudinal edge 513b with the first surface 14a, rather than with the second surface 14b. This seam member 513 provides a seam having a pair of shallow ridges when fitted.

Figure 10 shows a preferred seam device 600 according to another embodiment of the invention. The seam device 600 according to this embodiment includes an elongate flexible seam member 613 with a first, substantially straight or flat rear side or surface 614a from which a spine 61 1 extends along and from a central portion thereof at an angle of approximately 45°. The seam member 613 also includes a second, convex front side or surface 614b. The spine 61 1 includes a plurality of projections along its length having spike-shaped cross-sections extending at an angle of approximately 45° relative to the spine 611 and inclined toward the seam member 613 to form a plurality of elongate barbs 61 1a, 611 b of two different lengths. The array of barbs 611 a, 61 1 b alternates between long barbs 61 1a and short barbs 611 b, wherein the long barbs 61 1a are roughly double the length of the short barbs 611 b.

Figure 11 illustrates a seam device 700 according to yet another embodiment of the invention similar to the seam device 200 of Figure 6, but where the spine 21 1 extends orthogonally with respect to the seam member 213.

Figure 12 illustrates a seam device 800 according to yet another embodiment of the invention with a spine similar to the spine 211 of the seam device 200 of Figure 6 and an elongate seam member 813 similar to the seam member 613 of the seam device 600 of Figure 10. However, the spine 211 in this embodiment extends orthogonally with repsect to the seam member 813 and the radius of the curved second side or surface 814b of the seam member 813 is smaller than the seam member 613 of the seam device 600 of Figure 10 to provide more pronounced bead in use.

The seam device of each of Figures 5 to 12 is formed integrally by an extrusion process using a flexible PVC material.

Referring now to Figures 13 and 14, there is shown a uPVC window 9 fitted within a sill 90 with a gap 91 therebetween to allow for expansion of the frame of the window 9. The seam device 600 of Figure 10 has been fitted in the gap 91 to seal the gap 91 , while allowing for the expansion and contraction of the frame of the window 9. As is clear from the illustration, the spine 61 1 of the seam device 600 is inserted into the gap 91 and retained therein by an interference fit between the barbs 61 1a, 61 1 b and the walls defining the gap 91. Advantageously, the gap 91 may first be filled with filler or silicone caulking prior to the insertion of the spine 611 of the seam device 600.

Referring now to Figures 15 and 16, there is shown a urinal 900 fitted against a wall 901 having a gap 991 therebetween. The seam device 600 of Figure 10 has been fitted in the gap 991 to seal the gap 991. As is clear from the illustration, the spine 61 1 of the seam device 600 is inserted into the gap 991 and retained therein by an interference fit between the barbs 61 1 a, 611 b and adjacent portions of the urinal 900 and wall 901. The gap 991 may also be filled with filler or silicone caulking prior to the insertion of the spine 61 1 of the seam device 600.

Should the seam device 600 become dislodged or damaged in either of these two applications, it can be removed and replaced with ease, as would be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

Referring now to Figure 17, there is shown an elongate seaming device 3 according to another embodiment of the invention. The device 3 according to this embodiment includes an elongate body 30, an adhesive strip 31 and a pair of wedge shaped lips 32a, 32b with sharp edges 33a. The body 30 has a first, mounting side 34a and a second, visible side 34b. The mounting side 34a includes a first mounting surface 35a and a second mounting surface 35b extending perpendicular to the first mounting surface 35a, thereby creating a substantially triangular form.

The adhesive strip 31 is on the second mounting surface 35b and is in the form of a double face tape in this embodiment. The adhesive strip 31 may advantageously include a release liner for removal prior to installation of the seaming device 3. In this embodiment, the visible side 34b forms the base of the triangle and is curved to provide a concave centre with convex portions on either side of the concave centre leading to the lips 32a, 32b. The lips 32a, 32b each extend from the lateral edges of the body 30 at an angle with respect to a respective one of the mounting surfaces 35a, 35b.

In use and as shown in Figure 18, the seaming device 3 is placed onto a surface 38a, which is the upper surface 38a of a bath tub 38 in this embodiment, such that the adhesive strip 31 adheres thereto in order to attach the device 3. Attachment of the device 3 causes the lip 32b that extends from the second mounting surface 35b to deform against the surface 38b. In this embodiment, the lip 32b is configured to provide a seal that inhibits ingress of water into the join along the surface 38a.

With the bath tub 38 located adjacent or against a wall 39, the other lip 32a of the seaming device 3 deforms against the wall 39, thereby providing a seal that also inhibits ingress of water into the join along the wall 39. It will be appreciated that small amounts of relative movement between the bath tub 38 and the wall 39, which is known to occur in many installations, will simply result in movement of the lip 32a along the wall 39. This arrangement minimises the risk of failure of the seam or seal when such movement occurs, in contrast with traditional, caulked joints.

Figure 19 shows an elongate seaming device 36 that is a variation of the seaming device 3 of Figure 17, wherein like references depict like features that will not be described further herein. The seaming device 36 according to this embodiment differs in that the visible side 34c is completely concave, without the convex portions of the previous embodiment.

Figure 20 shows an elongate seaming device 37 that is a further variation of the seaming devices 3, 36 of Figures 17 and 19, wherein like references depict like features that will not be described further herein. The seaming device 36 according to this embodiment differs in that the visible side 34c is flat, without the concave or convex curved portions of the previous embodiments. It will be appreciated that, in use, the lips 32, 33 will deform and may cause the visible side 34c to assume a shallow concave shape.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that several variations to the aforementioned embodiments are envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the specific shapes, configurations and angles of each of the elements of the seam device may vary from the specific examples provided above.

It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any number of combinations of the aforementioned features and/or those shown in the appended drawings provide clear advantages over the prior art and are therefore within the scope of the invention described herein.