Field of the Invention

[1] The present invention relates to a batten and in particular to a single-web batten. The invention also relates to a batten assembly, a method of installing a batten assembly and methods of manufacturing a batten.

[2] The present invention further relates to a cladding support assembly having at least two single-web battens; and at least one bracing member; and wherein, in use: the at least two battens are spaced apart; and the at least one bracing member extends between and fixedly connects the at least two battens.

[3] The invention comprising the batten, batten assembly, method of installation and manufacture, and cladding support assembly, has been primarily developed with regard to a batten configured to be positioned between a first member and a second member. And more particularly, the invention has been developed with regard to a batten configured to be positioned between a cladding member (or similar material), and a structural member, and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.

Background of the Invention

[4] Battens have widespread application in construction and related industries. In construction, they may be used to attach material (e.g., strips or sections of material, often comprising an external or outer surface) to structural members of a building. Battens are frequently used to maintain the attached material in aligned, consistently spaced arrangements, and to provide an anchor for attachment means to connect the material.

[5] Battens may be used to provide an additional layer of material on a building, which may be useful for protecting the building in adverse weather conditions or to change the external visual appearance of a building. Battens may also be used as spacers, sometimes called furring, to raise a surface of building, or as secondary framework onto which material may be fixed.

[6] As an example, roof battens can be used to provide a fixing point for roofing materials such as tiles or slates. Roof battens may be used so that an external roofing material can be attached to a roof sheathing structure or applied over an existing roof structure. Alternatively, a batten can be directly attached to support framing.

[7] Wall battens may be used to fix siding materials (for example, cladding, shingles, tiles, or panels) to wall structural members (for example, a support frame, an inner wall, or a weather resistant barrier). [8] It will be understood that battens may be used in a variety of contexts, including batten trim, flooring, or batten doors. The batten may also be used to be used with fiber cement sheets. It will also be understood that the siding, roofing, or other material may be solid and/or include non-solid structural elements (e.g., a honeycomb structure).

[9] In some installations, the use of battens has led to negative results and/or problematic conditions, some of which are described below.

[10] Installed battens can restrict airflow and/or circulation of air in the space occupied by the batten (i.e. , the space between a cladding or other material and a structural member). Such restriction of air leads to moisture entrapment that can lead to faster deterioration of the structural member, or cladding or other material (e.g., due to rust, wood-rot, etc.), or potentially unhealthy living/working environments.

[11] Restricted airflow may also create heat entrapment that can impact degradation of building materials, and in particular siding or roofing material that may be subject to higher temperatures. Heat entrapment may be amplified by the siding or roofing material being exposed to the sun and radiating heat within a gap spanned by a batten connecting siding or roofing material to the structural member.

[12] Such deterioration or degradation can be substantial where the heat or moisture entrapment is localised, such that greater entrapment at certain locations causes localised damage to siding or roofing material. This may be particularly problematic, for example, where it results in the siding or roofing losing its consistent external appearance due to the localised damage.

[13] In some applications, battens have limited ability to flex or move due to their design and the materials out of which they are manufactured (e.g., rolled steel). While the inflexibility of a batten may assist in providing an anchor to connect the material (e.g., siding, roofing, or flooring) to the structure, a rigid connection can produce undesirable outcomes where the fixing point of one batten to the material moves relative to the fixing point of other battens to the material; such relative movement may result in distortion of the material.

[14] Problems associated with distortion of the material (e.g., siding, roofing, orflooring) are not limited to negative impacts on the aesthetics or appearance of the fagade, roofing, or flooring. It also may compromise the performance, durability or longevity of the fagade, roofing or flooring. Excessive movement on the materials (e.g., cladding) may put undue stain on the material, batten, attachment means and fixing points of the structural member. This may result in the weather-seal / weather-tightness being compromised due to the formation of unexpected gaps (e.g., in and around seams and overlaps). The emergence of gaps provides leakage points enabling ingress of moisture, as well as debris (e.g., dirt) or other contaminants. [15] Excessive and/or repeated buckling or distortion of the material may also compromise the protective coating layer(s) on the material, leading to premature failure.

[16] Further, attachment points where anchoring (i.e., a fixing point) engages the cladding or other material can experience excessive strains and forces resulting in localised distortions of the material that may facilitate the pull-over of the material overthe fastener or the loosening of the connection and subsequent loss of preload on the fixing connection, weakening the loading capacity of the connection.

[17] Excessive movement of the fastener may also result in weakening of the engagement between the actual fastener and the batten that may result from the potential opening-up of the hole space in the batten created during installation by the fastener being driven and fixed into position - fasteners in thinner gauge materials are generally considered to be more prone to loosening over time and with prolonged exposure to dynamic loading and fatigue.

[18] The present invention seeks to provide a batten, which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide a useful alternative.

[19] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

Summary of the Invention

[20] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a batten is provided a single-web batten configured to be positioned between a first member and a second member, the batten including: a first flange portion; a second flange portion and a single-web portion extending between the first flange portion and the second flange portion; wherein the single web portion includes one or more apertures therethrough.

[21] The first flange portion may be configured to be attachable to the first member, and the second flange portion is configured to be attachable to the second member.

[22] The first member may be a cladding member.

[23] The second member may be a structural member.

[24] The first flange portion may be parallel to the second flange portion when the batten is not under load. Alternatively, it may substantially parallel, or at a different angle.

[25] The batten may be a ‘Z’ batten. Alternatively, it may a ‘C’ batten, or a T batten or have a different configuration.

[26] The first flange portion, second flange portion and/or single-web portion may be integrally formed.

[27] The batten may be formed from a sheet metal material. Preferably, the batten may be formed from a high gauge sheet metal material. [28] The single-web portion may be adapted to flex and/or move under load.

[29] The one or more apertures may be adapted to provide flexibility in the batten.

[30] The one or more apertures may preferably be adapted to provide flexibility in the singleweb portion of the batten.

[31] The one or more apertures in the single-web portion may preferably be adapted to provide flexing and/or movement of the single-web portion relative to the second flange portion when the batten is under load.

[32] The one or more apertures in the single-web portion are preferably adapted to provide movement of the first flange portion when the batten is under load.

[33] Flexing and/or movement of one or more of the portions of the batten may operate to reduce stress forces transferred to the first member when the batten is under load.

[34] The one or more apertures may preferably be configured to allow air and/or moisture therethrough.

[35] The one or more apertures may be configured to allow hot air upwardly therethrough, when the batten is installed in a horizontal arrangement such that a longitudinal axis of the single-web portion is arranged horizontally.

[36] The one or more apertures may be spaced apart from each other.

[37] Each of the one or more apertures may be separated from the next aperture by a segment of the single-web portion in a range between approximately 5 millimetres (mm) and 200 millimetres (mm).

[38] Each of the one or more apertures may be separated centre-to-centre from the next aperture by a distance in a range between approximately 25 millimetres and 200 millimetres.

[39] The one or more apertures may comprise circle-shaped (or oval-shaped) apertures having a diameter (or major axis diameter) in a range of between approximately 15 mm to 25 mm.

[40] Each of the one or more apertures may have an area in a range of between approximately 175 mm ² and 500 mm ² .

[41] The one or more apertures may comprise one or more rows of apertures extending along a longitudinal axis of the single-web portion.

[42] The one or more apertures may comprise two parallel offset rows of apertures extending along a longitudinal axis of the single-web portion.

[43] The one or more apertures may comprise one or more, or any combination of, slotshaped, louver-shaped, circle-shaped, and/or triangle-shaped apertures.

[44] The batten is preferably made from a material, or combination of materials, comprising roll formed metal. [45] The batten may be manufactured by a process including roll-forming a sheet of formable metal to form the batten portions.

[46] The batten may be manufactured by a process including applying a metal sheet folding machine to form the batten portions from a sheet of formable metal.

[47] The formable metal is preferably high tensile steel. The high tensile steel may be G550 or G500.

[48] The batten may be manufactured by a process including extrusion of a mouldable material. The mouldable material may comprise aluminium

[49] The batten may be manufactured by a process including fusion of materials. Preferably, one or more of the fused materials comprises a non-conductive material to inhibit thermal bridging between the first member and the second member. It is particularly preferred that the single-web portion is formed from the non-conductive material.

[50] The batten may be manufactured by a process including punching out the one or more apertures in the single-web portion in an in-line process.

[51] The batten may be manufactured by a process including punching out the one or more apertures in the single-web portion in a sequential staging process.

[52] The batten may be manufactured by a process including incision and deformation of a sheet to create the one or more apertures in the single-web portion.

[53] The batten may be manufactured by a process including repositioning of deformed material to create the one or more apertures, or a part of the one or more apertures.

[54] Preferably, one or more of the portions comprising the batten are covered with a protective coating.

[55] The protective coating may be a zinc-aluminium alloy or a galvanised coating.

[56] The protective coating may be a protective paint (e.g., polyester, exterior acrylic, PVDF etc.).

[57] According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a batten as described herein.

[58] According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a batten assembly including: a plurality of battens in accordance with the first aspect of the invention; a plurality of first members; a second member; a plurality of attachment components, wherein: the first members are attached to the first flange portions of the battens using one or more of the plurality of attachment components; and each of the battens are attached to the second member by their respective second flange portion using one or more of the plurality of attachment components. [59] The plurality of battens may be attachable to the structural member in a horizontal arrangement such that hot air and/or moisture is allowed to move upwardly through the one or more apertures of each of the plurality of battens.

[60] The plurality of first members may be attached to the battens in a vertical arrangement.

[61] The plurality of first members may be a plurality of cladding members and the second member is preferably a structural member.

[62] The second member may be a vertical wall member.

[63] According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of installing an assembly, including the following steps: attaching a plurality of battens of the invention as described herein in a horizontal arrangement to a second member; and attaching to the plurality of battens a plurality of first members in a vertical arrangement.

[64] The method of installing may be a method of installing a cladding assembly, where the plurality of first members is a plurality of cladding members and the second member is a structural member.

[65] According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a single-web batten configured to be positioned between a first member and a second member, the batten including: a first flange portion; a second flange portion and single-web portion extending between the first flange portion and the second flange portion, wherein the single-web portion includes one or more hinging elements adapted to provide flexing of the single-web portion.

[66] The one or more hinging elements may comprise one or more, or a combination of, apertures, cut-outs, or thinner or narrowed regions (e.g., regions having a lesser dimension than) in the single-web portion.

[67] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a cladding support assembly comprising: at least two single-web battens; and at least one bracing member; wherein, in use: the at least two battens are spaced apart; and the at least one bracing member extends between and fixedly connects the at least two battens.

[68] In an embodiment, each batten may be a single-web batten comprising: a first flange portion; a second flange portion; and a web connecting the first flange portion and the second flange portion.

[69] In another embodiment, in use, the first flange portion of each single-web batten may be attached to a structural support and the second flange portion of each single-web is attached to at least one cladding member.

[70] In another embodiment, the at least two battens may be configured, in use, to attach to the structural support in a linear arrangement.

[71] In another embodiment, in use, the at least one bracing member may be positioned between the at least two battens and at the least one cladding member. [72] In another embodiment, the cladding member may be substantially planar.

[73] In another embodiment, the at least one bracing member may be configured, in use, to bias the at least one cladding member at least partially substantially radially away from the at least two battens.

[74] In another embodiment, the at least one bracing member may be substantially triangular in cross section.

[75] In another embodiment, in use, a base of the at least one bracing member may be adjacent the at least two battens.

[76] In another embodiment, in use, an apex of the at least one bracing member may be adjacent the at least one cladding member.

[77] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a structure comprising a cladding support assembly, the cladding support assembly comprising: at least two battens; and at least one bracing member; wherein: the at least two battens are spaced apart; and the at least one bracing member extends between and fixedly connects the at least two battens.

[78] In an embodiment, each batten may be a single-web batten comprising: a first flange portion; a second flange portion; and a web connecting the first flange portion and the second flange portion.

[79] In another embodiment, the first flange portion of each single-web batten may be attached to a structural support and the second flange portion of each single-web may be attached to at least one cladding member.

[80] In another embodiment, the at least two battens may be attached to the structural support in a linear arrangement.

[81] In another embodiment, the at least one bracing member may be positioned between the at least two battens and at the least one cladding member.

[82] In another embodiment, the cladding member may be substantially planar.

[83] In another embodiment, the at least one bracing member may bias the at least one cladding member at least partially substantially radially away from the at least two battens.

[84] In another embodiment, the at least one bracing member may be substantially triangular in cross section.

[85] In another embodiment, a base of the at least one bracing member may be adjacent the at least two battens.

[86] In another embodiment, an apex of the at least one bracing member may be adjacent the at least one cladding member.

[87] In another embodiment, the structure may be selected from the group consisting of a fence, a frame, a roof, and a wall. [88] The features described in relation to one or more aspects of the invention are to be understood as applicable to other aspects of the invention.

[89] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[90] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[91 ] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional side view of a prior art top hat batten assembly;

[92] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional side view of a prior art single web batten assembly;

[93] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional side view of a batten assembly in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[94] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional side view of a batten in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[95] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional side view of a batten in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[96] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional side view of a batten in accordance with further preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[97] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional side view of a batten in accordance with further preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[98] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional side view of a batten in accordance with further preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[99] Figure 9 is a top view of a section of a batten in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[100] Figure 10 is a top view of a section of a batten in accordance with further preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[101] Figure 11 is a top view of a section of a batten in accordance with further preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[102] Figure 12 is a top view of a section of a batten in accordance with further preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[103] Figure 13 is a top view of a section of a batten in accordance with further preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[104] Figure 14 is a top view of a section of a batten in accordance with further preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[105] Figure 15 is a first cross-sectional view of the section of batten depicted in Figure 14;

[106] Figure 16 is a second cross-sectional view of the section of batten depicted in Figure 14; [107] Figure 17 is a perspective partial cut-away view of a batten assembly in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

[108] Figure 18 is a perspective partial cut-away view of a cladding support assembly in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

[109] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of a bracing member in accordance with the embodiment illustrated in Figure 18, and

[110] Figure 20 is a top view of a cladding support assembly in accordance with the embodiment shown in Figure 18.

Description of Embodiments

[111] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional illustration of a prior art batten assembly including a ‘top hat’ batten 50 that has two web portions, 52A and 52B, the batten 50 being attached to first (cladding) member 30 via fixing point 54A, and to second (structural) member 20 (e.g., a vertical wall made out of precast concrete, brick/masonry, structural steel frame, or infill panel) via fixing points 54B and 54C. The batten 50 remains inflexible under movement of the cladding 30, and the fixing points remain rigidly in the same position. The movement of the cladding, over time, results in deformation of the cladding 30 (not shown) as the cladding 30 itself absorbs the stresses and strains associated with cladding movement. Movement of the cladding 30 is understood in the context of the present invention to include expansion and contraction of the cladding 30 under changing environmental conditions; it also includes translational movement of the cladding 30. To illustrate this significance of this point, where multiple cladding components are installed in an overlapping or contiguous arrangement such as where a first cladding component is adjacent a second cladding component, movement of the former may cause movement, and potentially deformation of the latter (or vice-versa).

[112] Figure 2 is cross-sectional illustration of a prior art batten assembly including a Z batten 60 that has a single-web portion 62, the first flange 61 of batten 60 is attached to first (cladding) member 30 via fixing point 64A, and the second flange 63 of batten 60 is attached to second (structural) member 20 via fixing point 64B. The first flange 61 of batten 60 flexes slightly under movement of the cladding 30, at an angle a to the norm (where the first flange 61 would extend perpendicular to the singe-web portion 62 when the batten 60 is not under load). The flexing of the batten 60 is minimal.

[113] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional illustration of a batten assembly according to the invention including a Z batten 70 that has a single-web portion 72 which includes two rows of apertures 75A and 75B, the first flange 71 of batten 70 is attached to first (cladding) member 30 via fixing point 74A, and the second flange 73 of batten 70 is attached to second (structural) member 20 via fixing point 74B. The singe-web portion 72 flexes substantially under movement of the cladding 30, so that first flange 71 of batten 70 (which itself is able to flex relative to the single- web portion 72) runs at an angle b to the norm (where the first flange 71 would extend perpendicular to the singe-web portion 72, and the single-web portion 72 would be perpendicular to both the first and second flanges 71 , 73, when the batten 70 is not under load). The flexing of the batten 70 is therefore quite substantial, and significantly more than the flexing of batten 60 of the prior art depicted in Figure 2.

[114] By analogy, the single-web portion 72 of batten 70 may be understood to operate like a hinge (e.g., a living hinge) and the rows of apertures 75A, 75B operate to produce zones of reduced stiffness that allow the flexing of the single-web portion 72 illustrated in Figure 3. In this way, the apertures 75A, 75B provide flexibility in the batten, and in particular in the singleweb portion 72 of the batten 70; and apertures 75A, 75B in the single-web portion 72 provide flexing and/or movement of the single-web portion 72 relative to the second flange portion 73 when the batten 70 is under load (e.g., lateral load imposed by the cladding material).

[115] The one or more apertures 75A, 75B further provide increased flexing and/or movement of the first flange portion 71 (compared to first flange portion 61 in batten 60 without apertures of Figure 2) when the batten is under load.

[116] The flexing and/or movement of the batten 70 thereby reduces stress forces transferred to the cladding member when the batten is under load.

[117] It will be understood that the flexing of the single-web portion 72 and first flange 71 comprises out of plane distortion. This provides the ability of the batten 70 to flex and move while keeping the cladding 30 constrained in plane but allows for thermal expansion of the cladding 30.

[118] Figures 4 to 8 are cross-sectional side views of batten embodiments in accordance with the invention, each having a different shape.

[119] Referring to Figure 4, there is depicted a cross-sectional view of a Z batten 10A according to the present invention. The batten includes one row of apertures 12-1 on the single web portion 12A, and a first flange 11 A and a second flange 13A, where the flanges 11 A, 13A are parallel to each other, and are each perpendicular to the single-web portion 12. The depth of the batten, labelled ‘x’ on Figure 4, is 35 mm. Alternatively, it may have a depth of 25mm, or 40 mm, or depths that are greater or lesser than these depths. Generally, the batten depth will be governed by with the regulatory requirements governing the jurisdictions where the batten is used.

[120] The height of the batten, labelled ‘y’ on Figure 4, is 50 mm. Alternatively, it may have a height of 70 mm, or 35 mm, or heights that are greater or lesser than these. The flanges 11 A, 14A of batten 10A extend the same height away from the single-web portion 12A.

[121] It will be appreciated that, from a manufacturing point of view, costs will be less (i.e., a desirable outcome) if the depth and/or height of the batten is reduced, however in that case the batten will have increased stiffness so the arrangement/number of the apertures would be modified for optimum flexibility while remaining within the regulatory or otherwise acceptable requirements governing the structural purpose of the batten.

[122] With reference to Figure 5, there is depicted a cross-sectional view of a Z batten 10B according to the present invention. The batten includes one row of apertures 15B on the single web portion 12B, and a first flange 11 B and a second flange 13B, where the flanges 11 B, 13B are parallel to each other, and are each substantially perpendicular to the single-web portion 12B. The second flange 13B of batten 10B extends in height approximately twice as far as away as the first flange 11 B from the single-web portion 12B.

[123] Referring to Figure 6, there is depicted a cross-sectional view of a C batten 10C according to the present invention. The batten includes two rows of apertures 15C on the single web portion 12C, and a first flange 11 C and a second flange 13C, where the flanges 11 C, 13C are parallel to each other, and are each perpendicular to the single-web portion 12C. The second flange 13C of batten 10C extends further away in height further from the single-web portion 12C than the first flange 11 C.

[124] Referring to Figure 7, there is depicted a cross-sectional view of a T batten 10D according to the present invention. The batten includes two rows of apertures 15D on the single web portion 12D, and a first flange 11 D and a second flange 13D, where the flanges 11 D, 13D are parallel to each other, and are each perpendicular to the single-web portion 12D. In Figure 7, the first flange 11 D extends upwardly away from the single-web portion 12D. By comparison, Figure 8, which depicts an inverted T batten 10E, including a first flange 11 E that expends downwardly from the single-web portion 12E.

[125] Figures 9 to 14 depict sectional top views of the single-web portion of batten embodiments in accordance with the invention, each batten having a different arrangement of apertures.

[126] Figure 9 illustrates a section of single-web portion 12F including a single row of circular apertures 15F. Circular apertures 15F have a diameter, labelled ‘b-T on Figure 9, of approximately 16 mm and are spaced at centres of approximately 100 mm, labelled ‘a-T on Figure 9.

[127] Figure 10 illustrates a section of single-web portion 12G including two offset rows of oval shaped apertures 15G. Oval apertures 15G have a major axis diameter, labelled ‘b-2’ on Figure 10, of approximately 30 mm and the ovals in each of the two rows are spaced at centres of approximately 50 mm, labelled ‘a-2’ on Figure 10.

[128] Figure 11 illustrates a section of single-web portion 12H including one row of grouped circular shaped apertures 15H. The circular apertures are arranged in groups of three, and the row extends along the longitudinal axis of the single-web portion 12H. [129] Figure 12 illustrates a section of single-web portion 121 including one row of alternating adjacent circular apertures 151-1 and rectangular apertures 151-2.

[130] Figure 13 illustrates a section of single-web portion 12J including one row of alternating inverted adjacent triangular apertures 15J-1 ,15J-2. The triangles defining the triangular apertures 15J-1.15J-2 are equilateral triangles having a side length, labelled ‘b-3’ on Figure 13, of approximately 25 mm and are spaced at centres of approximately 30 mm, labelled ‘a-3’. In an alternative form (not shown), the vertices of the triangle may be rounded.

[131] Referring to Figures 14 to 16, there is illustrated a section of single-web portion 12K including one row of louver shaped apertures 15K, where the louver shaped apertures 15K include a hooded portion 16 that extends upwardly from the upper face 17 of the single-web portion 12K. The hooded portion 16, having reference to cross-sectional views along A-A and B-B shown in Figures 15 and 16, respectively, provides a covering above the aperture 15K. The louvered (hooded) style of aperture allows air movement through the aperture 15K yet also serves as a canopy over the aperture/void to shed water droplets (e.g. liquid moisture).

[132] Figure 17 depicts a cut-away portion of a batten assembly 100, the assembly including two battens 110A, 110B, each including one row of circular apertures. The assembly further includes two first (cladding) members 130A, 130B. The cladding members 130A, 130B overlap and inter-engage along raised portion 131. The cladding members 130A, 130B are each attached to a two second (structural) members 120A and 120B. The structural members 120A, 120B are vertical steel studs having a flexible membrane 121 attached thereto. A plurality of attachment components comprising panhead metal screws (only one of which is visible, and labelled 104) attach the cladding members 130A, 130B to the battens 110A, 110B via their respective second flange portions (only one of which is visible, and labelled 131 A).

[133] The battens 110A, 110B are attached to the structural members 120A, 120B in a horizontal arrangement such that hot air and/or moisture is allowed to move upwardly through the circular rows of apertures of each of the two battens 110A, 110B enabling airflow and flow of heat/moisture in the volume of airspace between the cladding members 130A, 130B and the flexible membrane 121. In alternative embodiments (not shown), the flexible membrane 121 may comprise a rigid membrane, or inner lining; and in further alternative embodiments, the battens 110A, 110B may be fixed directly to the inner structure (e.g., inner wall) or frame of a building.

[134] Referring to Figures 9 to 14, it will be appreciated that the rows of apertures in each of those illustrations extend along the longitudinal axis of the respective single-web portions 12F- 12K.

[135] Alternatively (not shown), the one or more apertures comprise ring-shaped apertures, and the one or more ring-shaped apertures may optionally overlap. In further alternative arrangements (also not shown), the one or more apertures comprise slot-shaped apertures. In yet further alternative arrangements (also not shown), the apertures may comprise irregular shapes (e.g., star, cross, or wave), or a combination of one or more irregular and/or one or more regular shapes.

[136] It will be appreciated that the spacing between any two apertures, whether offset, or adjacent in a row, should be above a minimum threshold (e.g., 2.5 or 5 mm) that ensures the apertures do not weaken the batten so as to make it unfit for its structural purpose. It will also be appreciated that some aperture arrangements may include overlapping apertures (e.g. overlapping rings), where the same structural purpose limitations apply. Where the aperture (e.g. slot and/or louver-shaped apertures) has a longitudinal axis, that aperture axis may run parallel to, perpendicularto, or at another angle to, a longitudinal axis of the single-web portion.

[137] Apertures comprising circular perforations (holes) are preferred in some embodiments of the invention due to ease of production, and functionality. It will be understood that punch- formed holes may have a small lip, that may or may not be removed depending on the desired flexibility in the single-web portion (noting that a lip may increase stiffness of the single-web portion).

[138] The apertures in the battens 70 and 10A-10E in Figures 3 to 10, and those depicted in Figures 9 to 16 are configured to allow air and/or moisture therethrough (in particular, allowing hot airto travel upwardly therethrough), which will be understood as important for management of temperature and environmental conditions between the first (e.g., cladding) member and the second (e.g., structural) member.

[139] Referring to the battens 10A-10G depicted in Figures 4 to 10, the length of each batten (i.e., from one edge to the opposing edge along the longitudinal axis of the batten) may be that length to which they are conventionally made or requested to be cut (e.g., 3 metres or 6 metres, a specific length requested by a purchaser.

[140] Each of the battens 10A-10E depicted in Figures 4 to 10 are integrally formed: flanges 11A-11 E, flanges 13A-13E and single web portions 12A-12E are, respectively, integrally formed. The battens 10A-10E are formed from a high gauge sheet metal material, namely 0.95 mm (BMT) structural steel (and in particular, GalvaspanTM G550). Alternatively, the battens may be formed from lower gauge steel, or other metals such as aluminium, or other materials such as plastic (e.g., if combustibility is not a concern), as known to the skilled addressee to have adequate rigidity and strength. Similarly, the thickness of the material (e.g., steel) may vary, and may be in a range between a lower bound of approximately 0.35 mm and an upper bound of approximately 1 .2 mm.

[141] In alternative arrangements (not shown), the batten the subject of the invention may be non-integral (e.g., a fusion of two or more batten portions consisting of the first flange, second flange, and single-web portion, where each batten portion comprises a similar or different material to the other batten portion).

[142] In further alternative arrangements (also not shown), the apertures may be replaced with and/or complemented by modifications to the single-web portion that operate in a similar manner to the apertures (e.g., to produce a hinge-like effect) to provide flexing and/or movement in the single-web portion, and thereby flexing in the batten. Such modifications may include narrowing the thickness of, or cutting (e.g., by laser cutting) out sections of, the singleweb portion in certain locations in a patterned or repeating configuration (e.g., narrowing at locations such as those occupied by the apertures identified elsewhere in this application, and narrowed segments in the form of shapes similar to apertures set out elsewhere in this application).

[143] It will further be appreciated that the number of apertures and the proportion of the overall surface area of the single-web portion occupied by the apertures, is dependent on a number of factors (at least some of which are interrelated). Therefore, battens having a range of different aperture arrangements (e.g., different aperture shaping, spacing, grouping, etc) are necessarily encompassed by the invention. The factors influencing aperture arrangements include, but are not limited to: the manufacturing cost (e.g. increased number of apertures is likely to increase cost), the depth of the batten (which may depend on the particular type of cladding or other material to which the batten is to attach), the thickness of the batten (e.g. thickness of roll formed steel sheet forming the batten), the grade of the material(s) forming the batten, the environmental conditions (e.g. humidity and/or temperature ranges in which the batten is to operate; noting also that environmental conditions impact how much the cladding or other material expands and contracts due to temperature change in said conditions); and the impact that the apertures have on the structural purpose of the batten (i.e. not so many apertures so as to render the batten too weak to be fit for purpose).

[144] A further point to note is that including higher aperture numbers, or larger aperture shapes, that are surplus to flex / heat or moisture management requirements, may be provide a utility benefit in that some apertures could be occupied by other items used during construction (e.g., cables) and/or by potential settlement of debris. These benefits are, of course, to be offset by the increased cost associated with having more / larger than necessary apertures for the batten to provide the flexing or heat / moisture management functions as set out herein.

Operation

[145] In use, the apertures in the single-web portion of the batten the subject of the invention enable fluid movement (e.g., for management of airflow, moisture, or heat) through the batten and flexibility of the batten, without compromising structural purpose of batten member. Importantly, flexing of the batten allows for management of the movement of the cladding or other material, and in particular expansion or contraction resulting from increasing or decreasing of temperature, which may be caused by the absorbing of energy from sunlight or due to convection-based heat transfer resulting from air flow between the cladding or other material and the structural member. It is particularly noted that a cladding sheet or sheet of other material may expand when it gets hot and shrink when it gets cold, and when the sheet goes through such a process it transfers load to the batten (i.e. , via the fastener or attachment component for attaching the batten to the sheet). In this way, it will be understood that the batten the subject of the invention operates to lessen the load taken by the fastener and provides for improved management of cladding sheeting or other sheet material, in particular.

[146] The distortion (i.e., flexing and/or moving) of the batten allows the cladding or other material to move with greater freedom and subsequently reduces the stresses on the cladding at the attachment points. The ability forthe cladding to move more freely reduces and manages the stresses at the cladding attachment points and subsequently reduces the build-up of stresses in the cladding or other material itself which results in cladding distortion (a phenomenon generally referred to as oil-canning) which is regarded as an undesirable aesthetic/cosmetic blemish. Similarly, by flexing, the batten is able to accommodates changes in the dimension of the structural member. This may also assist with maintaining the appearance and integrity of the cladding or other material.

[147] It will be appreciated that, by comparison to a ‘top hat’ batten, the batten the subject of the invention provides substantial flexibility and improved performance. The flexibility in the batten the subject of the invention may be understood by considering the hinge-like operation of the single-web portion, which provides a range of movement forthe fastening point attaching a cladding or other material to the batten (compared to a ‘top hat’ batten with a fastening point that is rigid and non-moving.

[148] Figure 18 illustrates a cladding support assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. As mentioned previously, changes in a structure due to, for example, expansion or contraction of a slab in response to changes in temperature can stress parts of the cladding which is attached to the structure. Stress concentrations in the cladding can result in deformation in areas of the cladding i.e., oil-canning. Further, as each cladding member is typically attached at each end to other cladding members, stresses experienced by one cladding members is transferred to that of adjacent cladding members via the join, causing movement and eventual deformation of other cladding members.

[149] In particular, Figure 18 depicts a cut-away portion of a cladding support assembly 300, the assembly including two single-web battens 210A, 21 OB. [150] In other embodiments, the battens may have more than one web portion and be a multiweb batten such as a top-hat batten.

[151 ] The cladding support assembly 200 also includes one bracing member 220. As shown in Figure 18 the two single-web battens 210A, 210B are spaced apart and the bracing member 220 extends between and fixedly connects the at least two single web battens.

[152] Figure 18 shows two cladding members 230A, 230B. The cladding members 230A, 230B overlap and inter-engage along raised portion 231 . Each of the cladding members 230A, 230B can be substantially planar such as a sheet of aluminium. As shown in Figure 18, the two cladding members 230A, 230B are affixed to each of two single-web battens 210A, 210B with fasteners.

[153] Each of the single-web battens 210A, 210B are also fixed to a structural support 240. The structural support in this embodiment, comprises vertical steel frame members 240A, 240B.

[154] While the example illustrated in Figure 18 shows two single web battens 210A, 210B attached to a single sheet of cladding, it is envisaged that in other embodiments, the cladding assembly 200 can include more than 2 battens such as 3 or 4 battens.

[155] Each of the single web battens 210A, 210B can comprise a first flange portion, a second flange portion and a web portion connecting the first flange portion and the second flange portion. The single web battens 210A, 210B can be in accordance with any of the embodiments discussed above. For example, the single web battens 210A, 210B can include one or more perforations or apertures extending through the web portion to achieve the desired flexibility of the batten.

[156] When assembled, in use, as shown in Figure 18, the first flange portion of each singleweb batten 210A, 210B is attached to the structural support members 240A and 240B. The second flange portion of each single-web batten 210A, 210B is attached to a cladding member.

[157] As shown in Figure 18, the single-web battens 210A, 210B are oriented horizontally and positioned in a linear arrangement along the length of the structural supports 240A, 240B.

[158] It is envisaged that the structural support can comprise a building structure such a building frame, a roof, or a wall. The structure can also be a fence or other similar structure.

[159] As shown in Figure 18, the bracing member is positioned between the battens and the cladding member 230A, 230B.

[160] Figure 19 illustrates a cross-section of a portion of the bracing member 220 in a preferred embodiment.

[161] The bracing member 220 comprises a base 221. The base 221 comprises two flange portions extending in opposition directions to each other. The battens 210A, 210B are attached to the bracing member 220 at each of the flange portions. [162] The bracing member 220 comprises a central spine 222. In this embodiment, the spine 222 has a V-shaped or triangular cross-section with an apex located away from the base 321 .

[163] Figure 20 is a top view of the cladding support assembly in use.

[164] The bracing member 220 is configured in use, to bias the at least one cladding member e.g., 230A at least partially substantially away from the at least two single-web battens 210A, 21 OB. As illustrated in Figure 20, the central spine of each bracing member 222 pushes against a rear surface of the cladding member 230A such that the cladding member curves outwardly. In this way the cladding member 230A is biased outwardly, pre-stressing and therefore, strengthening the cladding member, in use.

[165] In this embodiment, the bracing member 220 has a single contact point with the cladding member 230A across the cross-section. In other embodiments, the bracing member 220 can have more than one contact point with the cladding member 230A across the cross- section of the bracing member.

[166] It is envisaged that in other embodiments the cross section of the spine of the bracing member can be curved e.g., circular, or rectangular or another shape. For example, the cross- section of the spine could be W shaped with two points of contact with the cladding member.

[167] A building structure including a cladding support assembly can have multiple cladding members which are connected to each other at top and side edges in an overlapping arrangement as illustrated in Figure 20 such that multiple cladding members function as a whole or stress. Each cladding member can be attached to the building structure via two or more battens. The battens can be arranged in horizontal orientation linearly along the length of the structure and also arranged horizontally along the structure. The battens are spaced apart along the length of the structure. Each batten is attached to the cladding members.

[168] A bracing member is oriented perpendicularly to the battens and fixedly connects adjacent spaced apart battens. Hence, a network of battens and bracing members is formed. Hence, if the structure moves, associated stresses are borne by the network as forces are distributed to adjacent battens via bracing members. This prevents battens moving independently of each other in response to local stressors and creating areas of tension and compression in the cladding leading to out of plane movement or lateral distortion.

[169] If there are forces applied by the structure to the batten assembly, the network of battens and bracing member will move in unison, in response. In this way the battens do not move independently one another. The increased flexibility of the single-web battens together with the bracing members means that the cladding support structure is tougher or more resilient when subjected to loading. Thus, the cladding support structure acts as a stress shield. [170] Further, pre-tensioning the cladding prevents out of plane moment of the cladding in response to local forces. The curved shape of the cladding is more resistant to tangential and radial forces on the cladding.

[171] In this way “oil-canning” or areas of localized deformation of the cladding is minimized. Benefits

[172] Many advantages are achieved by the present invention, many of which will be well appreciated by a skilled person - and some of which are outlined below.

[173] Benefits of the single-web batten, single-web batten assembly and cladding assembly include: providing a reduced cross-sectional area works analogously to a hinge that enables greater movement of the cladding and reduction in the distortion effects of a rigid fixing; providing a hinge-like flexing to enable a greaterdegree of movement of the cladding assembly to overcome stresses induced by thermal movement (expansion and contraction) resulting from direct radiant heat and entrapped heat in the cavity space (as a result of limited airflow and resulting build-up of heat in the space between the cladding and building sub-structure); reducing the tendency for the cladding material to distort and buckle which results in a blemished appearance commonly referred to in industry as oil-canning, particularly when used as part of a cladding assembly with bracing members; accommodating dimension change in the cladding or other material (i.e., first member) and/or the structural member (i.e., second member) due to changes in the environmental conditions (e.g., due to changes in temperature and moisture); and reduced weight of the batten providing handling advantages and contributing to lower overall weight of the cladding system.

Interpretation

Embodiments

[174] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[175] Similarly, it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, Figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Description of Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Description of Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[176] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some, but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

Different Instances of Objects

[177] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.

Specific Details

[178] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

Terminology

[179] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar mannerto accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially", "peripherally", "upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

Ranges of values

[180] When any number or range is described herein, unless clearly stated otherwise, that number or range is approximate. Recitation of ranges of values herein are intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value and each separate subrange defined by such separate values is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. Comprising and Including

[181] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. , to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[182] Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements/features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising.

Scope of Invention

[183] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.

[184] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

Industrial Applicability

[185] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the building and construction industries.