TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates a chute system and a method of erecting the chute system for use in construction, renovation or maintenance of a building. BACKGROUND ART

The use of rubbish bins and rubbish chutes for construction, renovation or maintenance of buildings is well known. Construction sites have large skip bins that when full are removed and replaced with an empty skip.

For multi-storey buildings, rubbish chutes are placed directly above a large skip bin, and are used to collect the rubbish in the one skip bin. Conventional rubbish chutes can take varying forms, although it generally consists of 44 gallon drums welded together, large cones that are fit into one another or made from plywood or sheet metal. In use, the chute may be accessed from multiple stories to collect rubbish in the skip bin at the bottom of the chute. Also known is the use of lift shafts for collecting rubbish in one place at the bottom, which an excavator picks up and puts in the skip bin.

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

In a first aspect, there is provided a chute system for use in construction, renovation or maintenance of a building, the chute system having at least one inlet and at least one outlet spaced from the inlet and having a perimeter wall extending in a longitudinal direction defining an interior passage interconnecting the at least one inlet and outlet, the perimeter wall comprising a plurality of panels that are releasably mounted together such that the chute can be assembled in a plurality of configurations with different cross-sectional areas of the passage. Advantageously, the perimeter wall of the chute system including panels is modular and as such can be modified depending on the use, the type of material being received in the interior passage of the chute system, and the number of levels in the multi-story building. Also, the containers or trucks used to collect the material after it exits the at least one outlet may come in various sizes and capacities. The chute system being modular can be configured to suit the size of the containers or trucks.

In some embodiments, each panel is generally rectangular. It is understood that rectangular also includes square. In some alternative embodiments, the panels may also be trapezoidal, rhombus or triangular or any suitable shape. The panels that are releasably mounted together may be different shapes to create different cross-sectional areas of the passage. For example, if four trapezoidal panels were mounted together along their angled sides, then a tapering cross-section would be formed with a narrower inlet than outlet or a narrower outlet than inlet. In some embodiments, each panel may include an internal face which defines the interior passage and an external face opposing the internal face. Each panel may also include an edge connection region and a face connection region configured to interconnect a panel to adjacent panels in an edge-to-edge configuration or an edge-to-face configuration. Depending on the type of securing connection between the panels, the edge-to-face configuration may be in the form of an edge- to-intemal face configuration or the edge-to-face configuration may be in the form of an edge-to-extemal face configuration. For example, in embodiments where the panels are connected directly to one another then an edge of one panel is secured to the internal face of an adjacent panel to form a comer. Alternatively, in embodiments where the panels are secured indirectly to one another, then the edge of one panel is secured to the external face of an adjacent panel to form a comer. This will be discussed in more detail below.

The edge connection region may not be continuous but may be generally formed along one to all of the four edges of each panel. Likewise, the face connection region does not need to be continuous. In some forms, the face connection region is in the form of the internal face connection region. In some forms, the face connection region is in the form of the external face connection regions. The edge connection regions and the face connection regions may be in the form of interlocking portions that include respective corresponding projections that fit together.

In some embodiments, the frame includes profiled frame members which form at least a part of the edge region and at least a part of the external face region so that the panel may be mounted with adjacent panels in the edge-to-edge configuration or the edge-to-face configuration. Advantageously, the frame increases the rigidity of the panel. In some embodiments, the frame members extend around the perimeter of the external face of the panel. It is understood that“profiled frame members” include any section where at least a portion of it has at least one bend, such as angled sections, channel sections, square sections, or a combination thereof etc. In some embodiments, the frame members are in the form of profiled members that may be in the form of an angled section or a hollow square section. The chute assembly is able to withstand rough use by workers or machinery because of its rigidity and stability, and in particular, profiled members increase the rigidity and stability of the panels. In some embodiments, the plurality of panels is in the form of either primary panels or secondary panels, wherein the primary panels are larger in dimension than the secondary panels. The primary panels may be twice the length of the secondary panels. The primary panels and the secondary panels are the same height. In some embodiments, the interior passage of the chute has a constant cross- sectional area along at least a substantial portion of its length. In another form, the interior passage may diverge at one its ends to the at least one inlet or the at least one outlet. In some embodiments, the interior passage has at least two portions of different cross-sectional area. One portion of interior passage having one cross-sectional area may transition to a second portion of interior passage with a different cross- sectional area. The transition may be of increasing or decreasing cross-sectional between the portions of passage, and may be made from panels that are a non- rectangular shape, such as triangular or trapezoidal to form a conical transition portion. Alternatively, the transition portion may be made as one piece between the two portions of different cross-sectional area.

In some embodiments, adjacent panels are secured together through one or more connectors that is mounted to the edge region of adjacent panels in the edge-to- edge configuration or the edge connection region and the face connection region in the edge-to-face configuration. The face connection region may be in the form of the external face connection region. In this way, the connectors may be positioned external the perimeter wall. In this way, the connectors are able to indirectly connect and secure the panels while also enhancing the rigidity of the perimeter wall. The connectors may connect both the edge connecting region and the exterior face connecting region to secure the panels together.

In some embodiments, the edge connecting region and the face connecting region (in some forms, the interior face connection region and in some forms, the exterior face connection region) include preformed holes and the connector includes corresponding pre-formed holes to the frame members for securing the panels together by a mechanical fastener in either the edge-to-edge configuration and/or the edge-to-face configuration.

In some embodiments, the connections in the edge-to-edge configuration and the edge-to-face configuration between the edge connecting region, the exterior face connecting region and the connectors are individually releasable to allow for selective demounting of individual panels from the chute system and reuse of the panels. In some embodiments, an opening may be formed in the perimeter wall by the absence of a panel. The panel may be selected and removed without disassembly of the chute system. In some embodiments, at least one door is attached along at least one edge of the opening defined in the perimeter wall to cover the opening. The door may be pivotally attached along the at least one edge. The door may be slidingly attached along the at least one edge. The door may be in the form of an overhead rolling door mounted on either vertical or horizontal tracks. Two doors may be pivotally mounted along two edges. The whole opening does not need to be covered, but a portion of the opening may be covered for safety reasons.

In some embodiments, the panels are arranged in an array similar to a stretcher bond arrangement in brickwork (i.e., in repeating patterns), especially where edges are not contiguous. In this way, panels the joins of adjacent rows or panels are offset. Offsetting the joins of the mounted panels in adjacent rows strengthens the chute system as a whole.

In some embodiments, the internal face of each panel is uninterrupted such that the internal passage is continuous. Advantageously, this allows the material to pass through the interior passage by gravity and not get caught on anything on the way through the passage. If material gets caught it could create a bottleneck and eventually a blockage. In some embodiments, the internal face may be lined to increase the continuity of the passage. In some embodiments, portions of the internal face of each panel may be lined.

In some embodiments, at least one of the connectors may be in the form of an elongate connector. The elongate connectors enhance the rigidity of the chute system.

In some embodiments, the chute system provides sufficient rigidity for the chute system to be self-supporting. In some embodiments, ties secure the chute system to the building. In some forms, brackets may be secured to the base of the chute system. The ties and/or brackets may be secured to a concrete pad or similar or to a building edge. According to a second aspect, a method of erecting a chute system is disclosed for use in construction, renovation or maintenance of a building. The chute system may have at least one inlet and at least one outlet spaced from the inlet and having a perimeter wall extending in a longitudinal direction defining an interior passage along a substantial portion of its length interconnecting the at least one inlet and outlet, the method comprising: selecting a configuration for the perimeter wall from a plurality of configurations having different cross sectional areas of the interior passage; mounting a plurality of panels adjacent one another to form the perimeter wall, such that the selected cross sectional area for the interior passage is formed.

In some embodiments, each panel is generally rectangular. As discussed above, rectangular includes square. In alternative embodiments, at least some panels may be a different shape, such as trapezoidal, rhombus, diamond, triangle, or any suitable shape, etc. Mounting together panels of different shapes can increase flexibility of the shape and size of the cross-sectional area of the interior passage.

In some embodiments, each panel includes an internal face which defines the interior passage and an external face opposing the internal face, and each panel also includes an edge connection region and a face connection region configured to interconnect a panel to adjacent panels in an edge-to-edge configuration or an edge-to-face configuration. The edge connection region may not be continuous but may be generally formed along one to all of the four edges of each panel. Likewise, the face connection region does not need to be continuous. In some forms, the face connection region is in the form of the internal face connection region. In some forms, the face connection region is in the form of the external face connection regions. The edge connection regions and the face connection regions may be in the form of interlocking portions that include respective corresponding projections that fit together. In some embodiments, the method includes securing the panels in either the edge- to-edge configuration or the edge-to-face configuration with at least one connector.

In some embodiments, the method includes positioning the at least one connector external to the perimeter wall. The method may also include connecting the at least one connector to both the edge connecting region and the exterior face connecting region to secure adjacent panels together. In this way, the edge-to- face configuration forms a comer of the perimeter wall.

In some embodiments, the method includes interconnecting one panel of the plurality of panels to adjacent panels in the edge-to-edge configuration and/or the edge-to-face configuration such that the perimeter wall forms a closed section.

In some embodiments, the method includes selecting the number of panels for the closed section to define the cross-sectional area of the passage.

In some embodiments, the method includes positioning a plurality of panels on top of the section of panels in the edge-to-edge configuration to form one or more sections to further define the perimeter wall of the chute system.

In some embodiments, the method includes selecting panels and configuring the panels in relation to one another such that the cross-sectional area of the passage is constant. In some embodiments, the method includes selecting panels and positioning the panels in relation to one another such that the interior passage has at least two portions of different cross-sectional area. There may be a transition portion between the two portions of different cross-sectional areas.

In general, the chute assembly may be erected using a scaffolding assembly, or may be erected by hoisting the panels with a crane, and arranging the panels in the desired configuration. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a chute system according to the disclosure herein;

Fig. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a chute system according to the disclosure herein;

Fig. 3 is a perspective internal face view of an embodiment of a panel;

Fig. 4 is an external face view of the embodiment of the panel of Fig. 3;

Fig. 5 is a side view of the embodiment of the panel of Fig. 3;

Fig. 6 is an end view of the embodiment of the panel of Fig. 3;

Fig. 7 is a magnified end view of the embodiment of the panel of Fig. 6;

Fig. 8 is a perspective internal face view of an embodiment of a panel;

Fig. 9 is an internal face view of the embodiment of the panel of Fig. 8;

Fig. 10 is a side view of the embodiment of the panel of Fig. 8;

Fig. 11 is an end view of the embodiment of the panel of Fig. 8;

Fig. 12 is a perspective rear/extemal view of the embodiment of the panel of Fig. 8;

Fig. 13 is a rear/extemal of the embodiment of the panel of Fig. 8;

Fig. 14 is a perspective internal face view of an embodiment of a connector;

Fig. 15 is an internal face view of the embodiment of the connector of Fig. 14; Fig. 16 is a side view of the embodiment of the connector of Fig. 14; Fig. 17 is an end view of the embodiment of the connector of Fig. 14;

Fig. 18 is a perspective internal face view of an embodiment of the connector;

Fig. 19 is an internal face view of the embodiment of the connector of Fig. 18;

Fig. 20 is a side view of the embodiment of the connector of Fig. 18

Fig. 21 is an end view of the embodiment of the connector of Fig. 18;

Fig. 22 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a chute system comprising a single chute section;

Fig. 23 is a perspective exploded view of an embodiment of a chute system comprising multiple chute sections;

Fig. 24 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a chute system comprising a single chute section;

Fig. 25 is a perspective exploded view of an embodiment of a chute system comprising multiple chute sections;

Fig. 26 is a plan view of the embodiment of the chute system according to Fig. 25;

Fig. 27 is a close-up plan view of the embodiment of the chute system according to Fig. 26;

Fig. 28 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a chute system comprising a single chute section;

Fig. 29 is a perspective exploded view of an embodiment of a chute system comprising multiple chute sections;

Fig. 30 is a side and partially exploded view of the embodiment of the chute system shown in Fig. 2; and

Fig. 31 is an end and partially exploded view of the embodiment of the chute system shown in Fig. 30. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to accompanying drawings which form a part of the detailed description. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, depicted in the drawings and defined in the claims, are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilised and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated in this disclosure.

Fig. 1 and 2 illustrate embodiments of a partially erected chute assembly 10, 100 for use on a building under construction, or for use in renovation or maintenance of a building. In general, the illustrated chute systems 10, 100 include at least one inlet 12, 112 and at least one outlet 14, 114. Both illustrated chute systems 10,

100 include one inlet 12, 112 spaced from one outlet 14, 114, but it is understood that that any number of inlets and outlets may be incorporated into the chute system. The chute system 10, 100 has a perimeter wall 16, 116 defining an interior passage 18, 118 along a substantial portion of its length interconnecting the inlet 12, 112 and the outlet 14, 114. In general, the interior passage of the chute is accessed via one of the at least one inlets which designed to accommodate waste material (or any other type of material). The material falls through the interior passage by gravity and be discharged out the at least one outlet. The waste material (or other material) may be filtered into separate waste containers by the at least one outlet.

The perimeter wall 16, 116 is made up of components that allow the chute system 10, 100 to be assembled in a number of different configurations. The

configurations may include an interior passage with one or more cross-sectional areas. The perimeter wall 16, 116 includes a plurality of panels 20, 120 that are releasably mounted together an edge-to-edge configuration, or an edge-to-face configuration. In the illustrated embodiments, the perimeter wall includes connectors 22, 122 for releasably mounting the panels together 20, 120.

Fig. 1 illustrates one configuration of the assembled chute system 10 using one size of panel 20. Different configurations may be assembled by using different size panels, more than one size of panel and arranging the panels in alternative configurations. In Fig. 1, square panels are used and assembled in a square configuration to form a section 38 around one or more waste containers. The chute is then built-up by arranging the next section 38i of panels on top of the first section 38 ₂ , and so on 38 _n . The height of the chute system may be built as high as required by adding sections to service any multiple storey building. The portion of the perimeter wall 16 illustrated defines a portion of the interior passage 18 and has a constant cross-section. Alternatively, two portions of interior passage of different cross-sectional areas may be connection by a transition region. Further alternatively, a portion of the interior passage may change in cross-sectional area, for example, the interior passage may taper in cross-sectional area from the inlet to the outlet. This may facilitate passing materials through the chute.

Fig. 2 illustrates another configuration of the assembled chute system 100 using two different size panels 20, 120 and the cross-sectional area has a rectangular configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the panels 20, 120 are arranged in an array similar to a stretcher bond arrangement in brickwork (i.e., in repeating patterns), especially where edges are not contiguous. One section 38i or row is laid around one or more waste containers, and then a second section 38 ₂ is laid on top of the first section 38i up to the desired height (38 _n ) to service a multi-storey building. One size of panel 20 shown is square, and the other size of panel 120 shown is rectangular. Both panels 20, 120 are the same height and the rectangular panel has a greater length than the square panel. In the illustrated form, the rectangular panel is twice the length of the square panel. It is understood that many different size panels may be used provided they are able to be arranged to form the perimeter wall. For example, panel sizes may be 1. lm by 2.2m, or 2.2m by 4.4m, etc.

Now turning to Figs. 3 to 21, the components of the chute system 10, 100 are illustrated and each will be described separately. Figs. 3 to 7 illustrate one embodiment of a panel 20 used solely to construct the chute systems 10 illustrated in Fig. 1, and Figs. 28 and 29.

The illustrated panel 20 is generally rectangular in the form of a square (i.e. having four equal sides) The panel includes an internal face 24 which, in use, defines the interior passage 18 and an external face 26 opposing the internal face 24. The panel 20 has an edge connection region 28, an internal face connection region 29 and an external face connection region 30. When assembled, the panels 20 are arranged to be mounted along the edge region in an edge-to-edge configuration. The edge-to-edge configurations can include panels 20 mounted side-by-side to form the section 38 _n , or can include panels 20 mounted on top of each other to mount one section 38 _n+i on top of the section 38 _n . When assembled, the panels 20 may also be arranged to be mounted in an edge-to-face

configuration. For example, this configuration may be when the panels 20 are mounted at right angles to each other. In embodiments where the panels are mounted directly to one another, they are secured in an edge-to-intemal face configuration. In embodiments where the panels are mounted indirectly to one another, they are secured in an edge-to-extemal face configuration.

The panel 20 includes a frame 32 extending around the edge of the panel 20 that is configured to interconnect one panel 20 to adjacent panels 20. The frame 32 forms at least part of the edge region 28 of the panel 20 and the frame 32 forms at least part of the exterior face region 30 of the panel 20. The frame 32 may not need to be continuous. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 32 includes frame members 34 that extend about the perimeter of the panel 20. The frame members 34 are profiled, and in the illustrated embodiment, the frame members 34 are formed as a square hollow members. In alternative embodiments, the profile of the frame members may be formed of one angled section. Further, the surfaces of the frame members may be angled in relation to one another. For example, there may be two frame member surfaces that are at 90° to one another, or there may be three frame member surfaces that are at 60° to one another. In further embodiments, the frame member surfaces may be angled in the range of 45° to 135°, and there may be any suitable number of frame member surfaces provided the panels are able to be securely interconnect. Each profiled frame member 30 may have at least two frame member surfaces 36 which form at least part of the edge region 28 and at least part of the external face region 30. In the illustrated embodiment, there are four frame members 34. The edge region 28 is formed of four respective frame member surfaces 36 from one of the four frame members 34 extending along the edge of the panel 20. The external face region 30 is similarly formed from four respective frame member surfaces 36.

The panel 20 may be mounted with adjacent panels 20 by abutting respective edge connection regions 28 of adjacent panels (edge-to-edge configuration), or by abutting an edge region 28 of one panel with a face connection region of another panel (edge-to-face configuration). The edge-to-edge configuration includes arranging the panels side-by-side and one on top of the other. The edges of the panels do not necessarily need to be contiguous when they are mounted one on top of the other, and the edges may be offset to form a repeating pattern as in brickwork. The edge-to-face configuration includes panels being arranged at an angle from an adjacent panel, and in particular at right angles to one another to form a comer. As a result, the edge region 28 of one panel abuts the interior edge of the interior face of the adjacent panel, which may be known as the interior face connection region 29. The edge-to-face configuration may be made secured directly between the panels or indirectly through a connector. This will be discussed in more detail below. The internal face 24 of the panel 20 is uninterrupted (i.e., may be textured but has no substantial protrusions) so that, when assembled into the chute system, the interior surface 24 defines a continuous interior passage 18. In one form the internal face of the panel is made from checker plate steel sheeting. In this way, when material is received in the interior passage 18, it will not catch on protrusions during its travel to the waste container at the outlet 14. The continuous interior passage 18 (and uninterrupted internal surfaces 24) maintains and allows for clear and efficient passage of the material through the chute.

The panel 20 also includes a reinforcing rib 42 positioned on the external face 26. The reinforcing rib 42 provides support, rigidity and stability to each panel 20.

Each panel 20 includes the frame 32 which are provided with pre-formed holes 40. This allows adjacent panels to be interconnected with a combination of bolts and nuts, or other suitable mechanical fasteners. At least some of the pre-formed holes 40 may be used for securing the panels together. Alternatively, the panels may be secured together by welding, or by adhesive etc. In one form, the pre formed holes are l8mm in diameter (see Fig.7), with the corresponding bolts having a shank diameter of l6mm. This advantageously provides a degree of tolerance to the overall chute system 1. The pre-formed holes may be any suitable size or shape for securable connection. The pre-formed holes do not need to be equally spaced apart and do not need to extend the entire length of the respective face.

The panel 20 may be formed by welding a steel plate 44 and the frame 32 together. The panels 120 may be made in l. lm x l . lm, 2.2m x 2.2m, 3.3m x 3.3m sizes. The steel plate 44 may be 3mm, 6mm or 8mm thick. In the illustrated embodiment, the detail at the comer of the panel 20 including the frame 32 is shown in Fig. 7, where the steel plate 44 is welded to the frame 32 in the form of an angle frame 32.

Figs. 8 to 13 illustrate a second embodiment of the panel 120. Fike reference numerals are used for like features, but the prefix‘ G is included to indicate the second embodiment. The panel 120 in combination with the first embodiment of the panel 20 are used to construct the chute system 100 shown in Figs. 2, 30 and 31.

The illustrated panel 120 is generally in the form of a rectangle. In the illustrated form, the panel 120 in the form of the rectangle is the same height as the panel 20 in the form of the square, but is double the length of the square panel 20. These relative dimensions of the panels 20, 120 assist in arranging the panels 20, 120 in repeating patterns when constructing the rows or the sections of the chute system 100. As discussed above, the panel 120 includes the internal face 124 which defines the interior passage 18 and the external face 126 opposing the internal face 124. The panel 20 has the edge connection region 128 and the face connection region 129, 130 arranged for mounting the panels 20, 120 together in the edge-to-edge configuration or the edge-to-face configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the panel 120 includes the frame 132 extending around the edge of the panel 120 that is configured to interconnect one panel 120 to adjacent panels 20, 120. The adjacent panels may be in the form of the square panel 20 or the rectangular panel 120. In alternative embodiments, the chute system may be constructed solely from the rectangular panels 120. The advantage in constructing the chute system from both the square panel 20 and the rectangular panel 120 is that the edges of the panels 20, 120 are purposely offset to disperse the areas of weakness over the entire chute system 100. The chute system is stronger, more rigid and more stable when the edges of the panels are offset because then the joints between the panels are not aligned between adjacent sections. The frame 132 forms at least part of the edge connection region 128 of the panel 120 and the frame 132 forms at least part of the face region 129, 130 of the panel 120. The frame 132 may not need to be continuous and may be formed of portions that are spaced apart. The face connection region may be in the form of an interior face connection region 129, or may be in the form of an external face connection region 130.

The internal face 124 of the panel 120 is relatively uninterrupted so that, when assembled into the chute system, the interior surface 124 defines the continuous interior passage 18. It is understood that the internal face 124 of the panel may be textured and still be relatively uninterrupted. In alternative embodiments, the internal face or a portion of the internal face of the panel may be lined to enhance the continuity of the panel.

The panel 120 also includes reinforcing ribs 42 positioned on the external face 126 of. The reinforcing ribs 142 provide support, rigidity and stability to each panel 120. The reinforcing ribs 142 are equally spaced apart on the external face 126 of the panel 120. The reinforcing ribs 142 also extend in the direction of the shorter side of the rectangular panel, but may extend in the direction of the longer side or may be transverse to one another depending on the requirements of the chute system and the required stability of the panels.

The frame 132 also includes pre-formed holes 40 for securing the panels 120 together as they are assembled in the chute system 100. The edge connection region 128 may include pre-formed holes 40, and the face connection region 129, 130 may include pre-formed holes 40. The face connection region may include the interior face connection region 129 and/or the external face connection region 130. In the illustrated embodiment, mechanical fasteners may be used to releasably secure the panels together. In this way, individual panels 120 may be dissembled from the chute assembly 100.

In alternative embodiments, different size panels may be used. For example, the panels 120 may be made in l. lm x 2.2m, l . lm x 3.3m, 2.2m x 3.3m sizes etc. As discussed above, the panels 120 may be constructed by welding the steel plate together with the frame in the form of angled sections.

The panels discussed above may be directly secured together using mechanical fasteners, for example bolts. Alternatively, to increase the strength, rigidity and stability of the chute system, the panels 20, 120 may also be secured together via connectors 22, 122, or a plate (not shown). A first embodiment of the connector 22 is shown in Figs. 14 to 17, a second embodiment of the connectors 122 is shown in Figs. 18 to 21, and the plate connector is not illustrated herein but will be discussed below.

Now turning to the first embodiment of the connector 22 and Figs. 14 to 17, the connector 22 is formed from steel and includes a body 46 extending between two ends 48, 50. The body 46 is made from two angled sections 52 that are welded together to form the connecting face 54, and two side faces 56. In use, the connecting face 54 abuts against either the edge region 28 or the exterior face region 30 of the panels 20 when the panels 20 are in their edge-to-edge configuration or their edge-to-face configuration.

The ends 48, 50 are welded to the angled sections 52 to form a rectangular three- dimensional box-like structure. The side faces 56 extend in the length direction and the height direction, and the ends 48, 50 extend in the width and height direction. The three-dimensional structure of the connector 22 enhances its rigidity and stability so that, in use, the connector 22 can further enhance the rigidity and the stability of the overall chute system 10. In particular, the side faces 56 and the ends 48, 50 act as reinforcing ribs to add rigidity and strength to the connector 22.

The connector 22 also includes pre-formed holes 40 that are spaced apart the same distance as the pre-formed holes 40 of the panels 20 such that a mechanical fastener is able to secure the connector to the panel via the corresponding pre formed holes 40. The pre-formed holes 40 are formed in the connecting face 54, the side faces 56 and the end faces 48, 50. The connector has a primary connecting face 56, but the side surfaces 56 and the end faces 48, 50 may also be used for connection purposes. In the illustrated embodiment, the side faces 56 and the connecting face 56 extend for a length that includes three pre-formed holes spaced apart, and the ends 48, 50 and the connecting face 56 extend for a width that includes two pre-formed holes spaced apart. The pre-formed holes do not need to be equally spaced apart and do not need to extend the entire length of the respective face. In one form, the pre-formed holes are l8mm in diameter which is the same as the pre-formed holes of the panels, with the corresponding bolts having a shank diameter of l6mm. This advantageously provides a degree of tolerance to the overall chute system 1.

Figs. 18 to 21 illustrate the second embodiment of the connector 122. The primary difference between the first embodiment of the connector 22 and the second embodiment of the connector 122 is that the second embodiment of the connector 122 has larger dimensions than the first embodiment of the connector 22

Like the first embodiment of the connector 22, the second embodiment of the connector 122 also includes two angled sections 152. The two angled sections 152 are welded to at least two connecting members 158 which space the angled sections 152 apart approximately the length of the connecting members 158. In the illustrated embodiment, five connecting members 158 are spaced apart along the length of the angled sections 152 from end to end. The end connecting members 160 are also in the form of angled sections but they are smaller in length. Part of the end connecting members 160 form the end faces 150. Two of the middle connecting members 162 are welded along their flat surface to the angled sections. One of the middle connecting members (e.g., the centre connecting member 164) is welded along its edge (extending in a plane that is at a right angle to the other middle connecting members 162). As discussed above, the angled sections 152 are welded together with the connecting members 158 form the connecting face 156. The side faces 154 of the angled sections 152 and the connecting members 158, although extending in different directions, act as reinforcing members to the connector 122.

As above, the connecting face 156, the side faces 154, and the end face 150 all include the pre-formed holes 40 spaced apart along either of their length. The pre- formed holes do not need to be equally spaced apart and do not need to extend the entire length of the respective face. In the illustrated embodiment, the side faces 154 and the connecting face 156 include fourteen pre-formed holes spaced apart along the length, and the end faces 150 and connecting face 156 include four pre- formed holes spaced apart along the width.

Figs. 22 to 31 show various embodiments of the chute system in the assembled configuration to illustrate the perimeter wall having different cross-sectional areas and different connectors. Like reference numerals are used for like features, and in some instances, a prefix‘G,‘2’,‘3’,‘4’,‘5’, or‘6’ has been included to indicate different embodiments .

Fig. 24 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the chute system 200 comprising a single chute section, and Fig. 25 is a perspective exploded view of an embodiment of the chute system 200 comprising multiple chute sections. Figs. 24 and 25 are secured via the same connectors which will be discussed below. As discussed in relation to Fig. 1, the chute system 200 has at least one inlet 212 and at least one outlet 214 spaced from the inlet 212. In the illustrated embodiment, the chute system 200 includes one inlet 212 spaced from one outlet 214. The chute system 200 also has a perimeter wall 216 defining an interior passage 218 interconnecting the inlet 212 and the outlet 214. In the illustrated form, Fig. 22 includes four of the panels 20 shown in Figs. 3 to 7 and assembling them in a square configuration. The square configuration forms a single closed section 38i. The internal face 24 of the panels 20 defines the interior passage 218, which is relatively smooth so that the interior passage 218 is uninterrupted. The plurality of panels is releasably mounted together such that the chute 200 can be assembled in a plurality of configurations with different cross- sectional areas of the passage. As detailed above, each panel includes the frame 32 extending around the edge of each panel 20 which is configured to

interconnect the panels 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 32 includes hollow frame members 34. The frame members 34 have pre-formed holes and the plurality of panels 20 are releasably mounted together by mechanical fasteners designed to fasten the panels together directly through the frame members 34 via the pre-formed holes 40 at the edge connection region 28 and/or the interior face connection region 29 in either the edge-to-edge configuration or the edge-to-face configuration. Several fasteners may be used along the length of each frame member 34 to provide strength and rigidity to the interconnection.

Fig. 23 illustrates multiple sections 38 _n of the chute assembly 200 shown in Fig.

22 mounted on top of one another to further a further embodiment of the chute system 300. In particular, the first single section 38i is formed 38i, and then the second section 38 ₂ is mounted on top of the first section 381. Once the second section 38 ₂ is mounted, the third section 38 ₃ may be formed on top of the second section 38 ₂ . The same process is repeated for the fourth section 38 ₄ and so on in relation to further sections 38 _n of the chute assembly.

Figs. 24 to 27 illustrate the same configuration of panels to form the chute assembly as shown in Figs. 22 and 23 but also including the connector 22 as shown in Figs. 14 to 17 is used to secure the panels 20 together. Fig. 24 illustrates the chute assembly 400 including a single section 38i. Fig. 25 illustrates the chute assembly 10 including multiple sections 38 _n of the section 38i shown in Fig. 24. Fig. 25 is also the same embodiment as shown in Fig. 1. The external face 26 opposes the internal face 24, and each panel 20 also includes the edge connection region 28 and an external face connection region 30. In the illustrated embodiment, one of the panels 20 is mounted to the adjacent panels 20 in the edge-to-face configuration to form the perimeter wall 218.

As a result, the panels are able to be secured through multiple connectors 22 that are mounted to the edge connecting region of one panel 20 and the exterior face connecting region 30 of an adjacent panel 20 in the edge-to-face configuration.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connectors 20 are shown connecting panels which form a section 38 _n , and one section 38 _n to a further section 38 _n+i . The connectors are positioned external to the perimeter wall 416, 516. Although not shown additional connectors may be used to add strength, stability and rigidity to the perimeter wall of the chute system. As a result of the reinforcing ribs 42 on each panel and the connectors 22, the chute systems shown in Figs. 24 and 25 are able to be self-supporting. The connectors 22 are individually releasable to allow selective demounting of the individual panels 22 from the perimeter wall 316. In Fig. 25, a panel 20 has been demounted and an opening 366 is formed in the perimeter wall 316. The opening 366 may be used as an additional inlet 312 to service multi-storey buildings. In this way, there may be an inlet to allow passage of the material into the interior passage of the chute system from more than on level of the multi-storey building. Handrails are shown across the opening to increase safety for the workers using the rubbish chute by inhibiting the workers from falling into the interior passage. Alternative safety devices may be used to cover a portion of the opening, such as mesh, etc. Figs. 26 and 27 illustrate the position of the connectors to secure the panels to one another. As shown in Fig. 26 the connector 22 is used to releasably connect the edge connection region 28 to the face connection region. In Fig. 28, the face connection region is in the form of the external face connection region 30. In use, the edge and the external face are aligned such that the connector positioned on the outside can engage both.

Likewise, the connector 22 is used to releasably connect the edge connection region 28 to the edge connection region 28 of adjacent panels (either side-by-side or on top of one another). In use, the edges are aligned such that the connector positioned on the outside can engage both. Mechanical fasteners 370 are used to secure the connectors 22 to the edge connector region 28 and the external face connector region 30 of the panels 20 in the edge-to-face configuration. Any suitable size mechanical fastener 370 may be used provided it corresponds to the size of the pre-formed holes. The connectors may also be used to secure the panels together through welding or adhesive, etc. Figs. 28 and 29 illustrate the same configuration of panels to form the chute assembly as shown in Figs. 24 to 27 but including an alternative embodiment of the connector 122 as shown in Figs. 18 to 21 which is used to secure the panels 20 together. Fig. 28 illustrates the chute assembly 500 including a single section 38i. Fig. 29 illustrates the chute assembly 600 including multiple sections 38 _n of the section 38i shown in Fig. 28.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connector 122 is in the form of an elongate connector which extends length of one of the frame members 36 along the perimeter edge of the panel 20. The connectors not shown are connectors (in the form of either the connector 22 or the connector 122) which secure the sections 38 _n together on top of one another. This may be done by either securing connectors adjacent to the illustrated connectors 122 or securing connectors on adjacent panels not shown as including connectors in the edge-to-edge configuration. Alternatively, connectors may be connector to the illustrated connectors 122 to secure the sections 38 _n on top of one another.

Figs. 30 and 31 illustrate the embodiment of the chute assembly 100 discussed above in relation to Fig. 2. As discussed above, two embodiments of the panels are used and indicated by references numerals 20, 120 and two embodiments of the connector 22, 122. These panels 20, 120 are assembled in a repeating pattern in sections so that the edges of the panels are not contiguous. This strengthens the perimeter wall by dispersing the areas of weakness which are formed at the joins between the panels. The connectors are also employed to connect the panels and to reinforce the perimeter wall to add strength and rigidity. Again, not all connectors are shown in Figs. 30 and 31, but some are illustrated for context. The panels 20, 120 also include reinforcing ribs on the external face of which increase the rigidity of the panels and as a result the overall perimeter wall structure. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing ribs extend in both the parallel and perpendicular directions in relation to the ground. Purposefully ensuring the reinforcing ribs extend in different directions also increases the rigidity and strength of the chute assembly. The direction of the reinforcing ribs may be changed by rotating or moving the position of respective panel in the perimeter wall. Alternatively, a further embodiment of panel may be included that includes a reinforcing rib which extends at a different angle (e.g., on the diagonal in relation to the panel).

Not only is the rigidity and strength of the chute assembly integral because it allows the chute assembly to be self-supporting, but also because the interior passage receives material, for example rubbish material. When material impacts the internal faces of the panels when passing though the interior passage, there is a load transfer at the point of impact. The chute assembly may also be impacted by a range of machinery and materials externally. In use, the chute assembly is able to withstand these forces (internal and external impact) while also being self- supporting through balancing the static forces in the chute assembly. The construction of the panels which include the frame, the placement of the frame in relation to each panel, the inclusion of the reinforcing ribs, the configuration of the panels in the perimeter wall, the use and type of connector all may have an impact on the integrity of the chute assembly.

Ties 172 are illustrated to securing the chute system 100 to the building, but ties may secure the chute system to any adjacent structure. Ties advantageously provide stability for the chute system relative to the other structure. Conversely, a chute system tied to a less stable structure may provide support to the less stable structure. Brackets 176 may also be included to secure the first section to the ground or base.

A waste container is shown in Fig. 31 and the perimeter wall 116 is built around and above it to form the chute assembly. More than one container may be used in relation to one chute assembly. Further, a filter may be incorporated into the chute assembly and more than one outlet to sort the material being disposed of in the waste containers. Openings 166 are be formed in the perimeter wall 116 by the absence of a few panels. Where there is an opening, a door 174 is attached along at least one edge of the opening defined in the perimeter wall to cover the opening. In the illustrated embodiment, a door 174 is pivotally attached via hinges along the edge of the opening 166. The doors 174 provide access to the interior passage 118 and also operate as an inlet 112 when in an open position.

The chute systems discussed herein may be erected by hoisting the panels with a crane, and arranging the panels in the desired configuration. Scaffolding may also be assembled to erect the panels in the form of the perimeter wall and also to secure the connectors to the perimeter wall.

The method of erecting the chute assembly comprises first selecting a

configuration for the perimeter wall from a plurality of configurations having different cross sectional areas of the interior passage. Thereafter, the method steps may include and may be performed in any order: · mounting a plurality of panels adjacent one another to form the perimeter wall, such that the selected cross sectional area for the interior passage is formed;

• interconnecting one panel of the plurality of panels to adjacent panels in the edge-to-edge configuration and/or the edge-to-face configuration such that the perimeter wall forms a closed section; selecting the number of panels for the closed section to define the cross- sectional area of the passage;

• positioning a plurality of panels on top of the section of panels in the edge- to-edge configuration to form one or more sections to further define the perimeter wall of the chute system;

• selecting panels and configuring the panels in relation to one another such that the cross-sectional area of the passage is constant; and/or • selecting panels and positioning the panels in relation to one another such that the interior passage has at least two portions of different cross- sectional area.

Variations and modifications may be made to the parts previously described without departing from the spirit or ambit of the disclosure.

For example, alternative size and/or shape panels may be used to suit the use and size of the interior passage required for the chute assembly. Many different types of connections may be used to interconnect and secure the panels together, described herein are the panels being directly connected together or connected indirectly via connectors. In particular, releasably connections are disclosed to allow for the reconfiguration and reuse of the panels. Many sizes of containers or more than one container may be used in combination with the chute assembly, and the size of the interior passage may be configured to suit the size of the container(s). The container may be moveable or on the back of a truck. 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” is 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.