TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to construction. In particular, the present invention relates to devices and systems for use when screeding concrete flooring and bedding mixes.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] When preparing floors in wet areas, such as bathrooms, the floor must generally be graded to the waste. This ensures that any water on the floor flows to the waste, rather than flowing elsewhere or pooling.

[0003] This grading is generally performed by screeding concrete or bedding mix prior to tiling. In many cases, a fall of at least 1 :100 is required, meaning that for each metre away from the waste, the screed height shall increase by 10mm. This is generally performed manually using levels and measuring devices.

[0004] A problem with such screeding is that it can be technically challenging, particularly in large areas. If a fall is too large, it may cause height problems away from the waste. If a fall is too small, or inconsistent, water may pool. As such, screeding is generally performed by skilled workers, and is costly and time consuming.

[0005] Certain tools exist which simplify the process of creating a proper fall when screeding. These tools include height pins, which may be adjusted to a desired screed height prior to screeding.

[0006] A problem with such tools is that while they may simplify the screeding process somewhat, they are generally difficult to properly set up. As a base floor is not necessarily flat, it cannot be used as a true flat reference point, meaning that levels and measuring tools are required to set up the height pins in generally the same manner that a skilled person would perform traditional screeding.

[0007] It is clearly desirable to be able to simplify the screeding process further, to enable faster and more efficient work, and/or enabling less skilled labour to be used.

[0008] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country. SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0009] The present invention relates to screed devices and systems, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

[0010] With the foregoing in view, the present invention in one form, resides broadly in a screed grading device comprising: a base, for being positioned on a substrate; and a platform, coupled to the base by one or more spacing members, the platform configured to provide a reference surface when screeding on the substrate; wherein a height of the platform relative to the base is adjustable.

[0011] Advantageously, screed grading devices may be positioned on a floor and adjusted to suitable heights, to simplify the process of grading the floor when screeding and reduce the likelihood of error. The platform may support a level or straight edge, simplifying the process of measuring and configuring the screed grading devices.

[0012] Preferably, the base and platform are coupled by a threaded spacing mechanism. The height of the platform may be adjustable relative to the base by rotation of the platform relative to the base.

[0013] Preferably, a first threaded member extends upwardly from base, and a second threaded member extends downwardly from platform.

[0014] The first and second threaded members include inwardly and outwardly threaded spacing members. The outwardly threaded spacing member may be configured to be received in, and engage with, the inwardly threaded spacing member.

[0015] Preferably, the platform comprises a substantially planar upper surface. Preferably the platform is substantially planar.

[0016] Preferably, the platform is circular in shape. Alternatively, the platform may be rectangular, or any other suitable shape.

[0017] Preferably, the platform includes a screw drive, enabling the platform to be rotated by a tool. The use of a tool may significantly increase the speed in raising and lowering the platform, which is particularly relevant when many devices are used.

[0018] Preferably, the platform includes one or more notches for supporting string. Suitably, the platform includes notches around a periphery of the platform.

[0019] Preferably, the base includes a substantially planar lower surface. Suitably, the base is substantially planar.

[0020] Preferably, the base includes an adhesive on a lower surface thereof. Suitably, the base includes double sided tape on a lower surface thereof.

[0021] In some embodiments, the platform is pivotable relative to the base.

[0022] In some embodiments, the base includes one or more supports, for supporting rebar above the substrate.

[0023] Preferably, the device is formed of plastic. The device may comprise an upper member, unitarily formed of plastic, and a lower member, unitarily formed of plastic. Any suitable material may, however, be used.

[0024] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[0025] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0026] Various embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0027] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of a screed grading device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 2 illustrates a top view of the screed grading device of Figure 1 , according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 3 illustrates a side exploded view of the screed grading device of Figure 1 , according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 4 illustrates an upper perspective view of the screed grading device of the screed grading device of Figure 1 , according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 5 illustrates an exploded view of a screed grading device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 6 illustrates an exploded view of a screed grading device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 7 illustrates a top view of a screed grading device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 8 illustrates a top view of a screed grading device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 9 illustrates a side view of first and second screed grading devices of Figure 8, illustrated being configured with a level.

[0036] Figure 10 illustrates a side view of the first and second screed grading devices of Figure 8 with a string extending therebetween, and a third screed grading device therebetween.

[0037] Figure 11 illustrates a side view of a lower member of a screed grading device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 12 illustrates a side view of a screed grading device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 13 illustrates a perspective view of an upper member of a screed grading device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 14 illustrates a perspective view of a lower member of the screed grading device.

[0041] Figure 15 illustrates a perspective view of a screed grading device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0043] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of a screed grading device 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 illustrates a top view, Figure 3 illustrates a side exploded view, and Figure 4 illustrates an upper perspective view of the screed grading device 100, according to embodiments of the present invention. Several screed grading devices 100 may be positioned on a floor (substrate) and adjusted to appropriate heights to assist in grading the floor when screeding.

[0044] The screed grading device 100 includes upper and lower members 100a, 100b, which may be engaged with each other at various spacings, thereby enabling the height of the screen grading device 100 to be adjusted. In particular, the upper and lower members 100a, 100b are threadedly engaged with each other.

[0045] The lower member 100b comprises a planar base 105, from which an internally threaded spacing member 110 upwardly extends. The upper member 100a similarly comprises a planar platform 115, from which an externally threaded spacing member 120 downwardly extends.

[0046] The internally and externally threaded spacing members 1 10, 120 engage with each other in a threaded arrangement, such that the externally threaded spacing member 120 is received in, and engages with, the internally threaded spacing member 110. The height of the planar platform 115 may be adjusted by rotation of the upper and lower members 100a, 100b relative to each other.

[0047] The lower member 100b includes an adhesive in the form of double-sided tape 125 attached to an underside of the planar base 105. The adhesive enables the lower member 100b to be attached to a floor (substrate). The skilled addressee will readily appreciate that the lower member may be mechanically fixed to the substate in any suitable way, including being set in adhesive paste, using a concrete anchor, nails or the like.

[0048] In use, multiple screed grading devices 100 will be adhered to a floor (substrate) at various locations and varying heights such that they are graded down towards a waste, channel or outlet. In particular, the platforms 115 are set to heights corresponding to a level of screed that would achieve the desired grading.

[0049] The platforms 1 15 are configured to support devices such as straight edges and levels, simplifying the process of configuring the screed grading devices 100. In particular, the platforms 1 15 enable straight edges and levels to be supported while the system is being used, simplifying the process of configuration by a single worker.

[0050] As the screed grading device 100 is easily configured by rotation of the upper member 100a relative to the lower member 100b, it may be also easily adjusted after installation, e.g. if fine-tuning or adjustment is required.

[0051] Once the screed grading devices 100 are installed across the floor (substrate) screeding may then be performed on the floor (substrate), using the platforms 115 as height guides. This enables the concrete mixture to be laid more rapidly and accurately, as the worker has height guides, rather than continually needing to check and measure. As the platforms 115 are relatively large and thus easily identifiable, the risk of mistakes is also reduced. This enables relatively unskilled labour to be used to at least initially lay the concrete or screed mix.

[0052] In large areas, and areas with uneven substrates, the heights of different screed grading devices 100 may vary significantly. In some embodiments, it is desirable to provide devices of varying different heights.

[0053] Figure 5 illustrates an exploded view of a screed grading device 500, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The screed grading device 500 is identical to the screed grading device 100, but wherein the internally and externally threaded spacing members 110’, 120’ are about half the height of the internally and externally threaded spacing members 110, 120.

[0054] This enables the screed grading device 500 to be about half the height of the screed grading device 100.

[0055] Figure 6 illustrates an exploded view of a screed grading device 600, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The screed grading device 600 is identical to the screed grading device 500, but wherein the internally and externally threaded spacing members 110”, 120” are about half the height of the internally and externally threaded spacing members 110’, 120’.

[0056] This enables the screed grading device 600 to be about half the height of the screed grading device 500.

[0057] In use, the screed grading devices 100, 500 and 600 will be used together on different parts of a substrate when the screed thickness varies significantly.

[0058] In other embodiments, a telescopic mechanism may be used to enable a single device to be used having a wide range of heights. As an illustrative example, a telescopic mechanism may be provided comprising threaded members, which are nested within other threaded members to providing a telescoping arrangement. In such case more than two threaded members may engage with each other, including at least some members which are both internally and externally threaded.

[0059] While the screed grading devices 100, 500 and 600 have been illustrated with a circular platform 115, the skilled addressee will readily appreciate that the platform 115 may take other shapes, and may include notches for supporting string. [0060] Figure 7 illustrates a top view of a screed grading device 700, which includes a circular platform 715, similar to the platform 115, but with a plurality of notches 705 provided in its periphery.

[0061] The notches 705 enable string to be attached between adjacent screed grading devices 700, as outlined in further detail below.

[0062] The screed grading device 700 further includes a screw drive 720, much like an enlarged screw head, which enables a tool, such as a screwdriver (or electric driver), to be used to turn the platform 715. The screw drive 720 is generally cross shaped, but any suitable shape or size of drive may be used. As an illustrative example, a Phillips drive, a slot drive, a hex drive, a square drive, a Torx drive, or any other suitable drive may be used.

[0063] Figure 8 illustrates a top view of a screed grading device 800, which includes a square platform 815, similar to the platform 1 15, but square in shape and with a plurality of notches 705 provided in its periphery.

[0064] The skilled addressee will, however, readily appreciate that any suitably shaped platform may be used.

[0065] Figure 9 illustrates a side view of first and second screed grading devices 800 being configured with a level 905. The grading devices 800 may be adjusted to an appropriate height through rotation.

[0066] Once a number of screed grading devices 800 are configured, intermediate screed grading devices may be provided therebetween, and configured using string.

[0067] Figure 10 illustrates a side view of the first and second screed grading devices 800 of Figure 8 with a string 1005 extending therebetween. The string may then be used to set a third grading device 800 positioned therebetween.

[0068] The skilled addressee will readily appreciate that several screed grading devices 800 may be positioned between the first and second screed grading devices 800 with the string 1005 extending therebetween.

[0069] In some embodiments, the lower member may be configured to support reinforcing (rebar) in the concrete. This is particularly useful when large areas are being screeded, to prevent cracking in the concrete.

[0070] Figure 11 illustrates a side view of a lower member 1100b of a screed grading device, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The lower member 1100b is similar to the lower member 100b, but wherein the base 105 includes rebar support member 1105.

[0071] The rebar support member 1105 comprise cross members that extend upwardly from the base, and include semi-circular receiver portions for receiving the rebar and supporting the rebar above the substrate.

[0072] This alleviates the need for other rebar supports to raise the rebar from the substrate.

[0073] Finally, as the screeding process generally involves a fall to a waste or similar, the platforms of the grading devices may be able to pivot.

[0074] Figure 12 illustrates a side view of a screed grading device 1200, which is similar to the device 100, but with a pivotable platform 1205.

[0075] The pivotable platform 1205 includes a pivot member 1210 at a base thereof, pivotally coupled to an upper end of the externally threaded spacing member 120. This enables the platform to be sloped according to a gradient of the floor.

[0076] The pivotable platform 1205 is also useful in scenarios where the substrate is angled or uneven, as it enables the substrate and platform to be angled relative to each other.

[0077] While the above illustrate the upper members having an externally threaded member, and the lower members having an internally threaded member, the skilled addressee will readily appreciate that such configuration may be reversed.

[0078] When the internally threaded member is provided in the upper member, the internally threaded member of the lower member may extend through the upper member. Such configuration alleviates the need for a long internally threaded

[0079] Figure 13 illustrates a perspective view of an upper member 1300 of a screed grading device, and Figure 14 illustrates a perspective view of a lower member 1400 of the screed grading device. The screed grading device is similar to the devices 100, 700, but with an externally threaded lower member 1400 and an internally threaded upper member 1300.

[0080] The lower member 1400 includes a base 1405, from which an externally threaded spacing member 1410 upwardly extends. The upper member 1300 includes an internally threaded aperture 1305, for receiving the externally threaded spacing member 1410.

[0081] As the internally threaded aperture 1305 extends through the upper member 1300, the externally threaded spacing member 1410 may extend through the upper member 1300. The externally threaded spacing member 1410 may then be cut to size, e.g. using a grinder or hand saw. Alternatively, the externally threaded spacing member 1410 may be cut to size prior to installation, or be provided in various lengths.

[0082] As will be readily appreciated by the skilled addressee, any of the embodiments outlined above may be combined. As an illustrative example, the rebar support member 1 105 of Figure 1 1 may be combined with the screed grading device of Figures 13 and 14.

[0083] Figure 15 illustrates a perspective view of a screed grading device 1500, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] The screed grading device 1500 is similar to the screed grading device of Figures 13 and 14, but includes a rebar support member 1505, similar to the rebar support member 1105 of Figure 11 .

[0085] The rebar support member 1505 may be integrally formed with the base 1405. Alternatively, the rebar support member 1505 may comprise a separate threaded member, that may be threaded onto the spacing member 1410. This enables the rebar support member 1505 to be selectively used by threading it onto the spacing member 1410 when desired.

[0086] While only one two or three devices 100, 500, 600, 700, 800 are illustrated together, the skilled addressee will readily appreciate that many devices 100, 500, 600, 700 and/or 800 will be used together on a floor, typically in a matrix across a length and width of the room.

[0087] While the embodiments are illustrated as being used together with manual tools such as levels and straight edges, the skilled addressee will readily appreciate that in other scenarios, laser scanners and the like may be used.

[0088] In one embodiment, a laser scanner is configured to scan a surface of the substate. A desired screed level is then either input or determined for the floor. Instructions may then be made for the placement of a variety of devices on the substrate at defined heights.

[0089] The laser scanner may then be used to rescan the surface with the devices, and identify a height of each of the devices and compared to the input ordetermined floor height. Instructions may then be made to adjust the height of one or more of the devices. This may be repeated until all of the devices are appropriately configured, upon which screeding may take place.

[0090] In some embodiments, the upper surface of the devices (i.e. the upper surfaces of the platforms) may include a code or identifiers (e.g. similar to QR codes) to simplify identification of devices and measurement thereof. [0091] In other embodiments, the devices may include sensors, microprocessors, or the like, to enable each device to determine its height. This height may then be provided to a portable computing device or the like. This may in turn be used to document an installation, verify that each device is appropriately configured, to generate digital (3D) maps for approval or certification, or calculate a volume of screeding material required.

[0092] The devices described above may be formed of any suitable material, such as plastic. The upper and lower members may be unitarily formed, e.g. by injection moulding. The material used may be recycled and/or recyclable. As an illustrative example, the material may comprise recycled plastic.

[0093] Similarly, the adhesive may comprise any suitable adhesive, including double sided tape adhesive, adhesive pastes, glues or the like. Alternatively, any suitable form of mechanical fastening may be used in place of the adhesive.

[0094] The device and adhesive may be formed of non-corrosive, stable materials, that may stay in the concrete without corroding, and without affecting moisture barriers, rebar or anything else of or associated with the floor.

[0095] Advantageously, the screed grading devices provide an efficient way of grading floors when screeding, which alleviates the need for constant measurement and thereby the need for skilled workers in this regard. The devices may be positioned on a floor and adjusted to suitable heights, prior to screeding, to simplify the process of grading the floor when actually screeding.

[0096] The relatively large platforms make the devices easy to see, which is particularly important when screeding, which is generally quite messy, and where small height pins (or similar) may not be easily visible. Being easily visible, the devices are also less likely to be damaged (e.g. by being stood on) when screeding.

[0097] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word ‘comprising’ and its derivatives including ‘comprises’ and ‘comprise’ include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[0098] 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, the appearance 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. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[0099] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.