U.S. patent application number 11/364570 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-23 for portable enclosure in particular for sanitary purposes.
This patent application is currently assigned to RLT Design Limited. Invention is credited to Richard Leach Tagg.
Application Number | 20060260214 11/364570 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34430407 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060260214 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tagg; Richard Leach |
November 23, 2006 |
Portable enclosure in particular for sanitary purposes
Abstract
A portable enclosure for sanitary purposes includes upper and
lower retaining members and a plurality of support posts extending
therebetween. A plurality of wall panels also extend between the
respective retaining members. The side edges of the wall panels are
received in grooves of the support posts and upper and lower edges
of the wall panels are received in retaining means provided in the
upper and/or lower retaining members. The retaining means are
non-linear--preferably curved--ands preferably take the form of
grooves in the surface of the retaining members. The wall panels
thereby adopt a curved configuration which provides increased
compressive strength.
Inventors: |
Tagg; Richard Leach; (York,
GB) |
Correspondence
Address: |
TROUTMAN SANDERS LLP
600 PEACHTREE STREET , NE
ATLANTA
GA
30308
US
|
Assignee: |
RLT Design Limited
York
GB
|
Family ID: |
34430407 |
Appl. No.: |
11/364570 |
Filed: |
February 28, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
52/79.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04H 1/1216
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
052/079.1 |
International
Class: |
E04H 6/00 20060101
E04H006/00; E04H 1/00 20060101 E04H001/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 1, 2005 |
GB |
0504167.8 |
Claims
1. A portable enclosure for sanitary purposes comprising: i) an
upper retaining member and a lower retaining member; ii) a
plurality of support posts extending between the upper and lower
retaining members and adapted to cooperate with said retaining
members to maintain the retaining members in spaced apart relation;
and iii) a plurality of wall panels each comprising a web of
plastic material, wherein: the upper and lower retaining members
comprise post retaining formations which cooperate with respective
upper and lower ends of the support posts to maintain the support
posts in fixed relation to the retaining members; and at least one
of the upper and lower retaining members comprises wall panel
retaining formations by means of which respective upper and/or
lower edges of the wall panels are retained in fixed relation to
the respective retaining member.
2. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 1 wherein the wall
panel retaining formations comprise non-linear concave formations
in which respective upper and/or lower edges of the wall panels are
received.
3. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 2 wherein said wall
panel retaining formations extend between the post retaining
formations.
4. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 1 wherein both the
upper and lower retaining members comprise said wall panel
retaining formations.
5. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 2 wherein both the
upper and lower retaining members comprise said wall panel
retaining formations.
6. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 1 wherein the support
posts comprise wall panel retaining formations adapted to retain
side edges of the wall panels.
7. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 6 wherein the wall
panel retaining formations of the support posts comprise
longitudinally extending grooves into which side edges of the wall
panels are received.
8. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 1 wherein the wall
panel retaining formations comprise grooves formed in the surface
of the respective upper and or lower retaining members.
9. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 1 further comprising
fastening means for said retaining members, wherein said support
posts comprise internal bores and said fastening means cooperate
with said internal bores to attach the support posts to said
fastening members.
10. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 9 wherein the internal
bores are blind bores formed at the respective ends of the support
posts.
11. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 1 wherein said support
posts comprise through bores and the enclosure further comprises
fastening means including a through bolt passing through each
respective bore by means of which fastening means the support posts
and the upper and lower retaining members are attached.
12. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 11 wherein the
fastening means, when fastened, place the wall panels in
compression.
13. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 1 further comprising
at least one roof panel attached to an upper surface of the upper
retaining member.
14. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 9 further comprising
at least one roof panel wherein said roof panel is attached to an
upper surface of the retaining member by said fastening means.
15. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 11 further comprising
at least one roof panel wherein said roof panel is attached to an
upper surface of the retaining member by said fastening means.
16. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 13 further comprising
an inner roof panel and an outer roof panel.
17. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 13 wherein said at
least one roof panel includes ventilation means.
18. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 16 wherein said at
least one roof panel includes ventilation means.
19. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 18 wherein said inner
and outer roof panels are maintained in spaced apart relation and
ventilation means includes one or more apertures formed in said
inner roof panel.
20. A portable enclosure as claimed claim 1 wherein the wall panels
are operatively deformed from a substantially plane configuration
for retaining the upper and/or lower edges thereof in said wall
panel retaining formations.
21. A portable enclosure as claimed in claim 1 further comprising
hinge units and a door hingedly mounted on said hinge units, said
hinge units being mounted in said respective upper and lower
retaining members.
22. A kit of parts for assembling a portable enclosure for sanitary
purposes comprising: i) upper and lower retaining members; ii) a
plurality of support posts for extending in use between the
retaining members and adapted, on assembly of the enclosure, to
cooperate with the retaining members to maintain the retaining
members in spaced apart relation; and; iii) a plurality of
substantially planar wall panels each comprising a web of plastic
material, wherein: the upper and lower retaining means comprise
post receiving formations which, on assembly of the enclosure
cooperate with respective upper and lower ends of the support posts
to maintain the support posts in fixed relation to the retaining
members; and at least one of the upper and lower retaining members
comprises wall panel retaining formations by means of which
respective upper and/or lower edges of the wall panels are in use
retained in fixed relation to the respective retaining member.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of UK patent application
number 0504167.8, filed 1 Mar. 2005.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Technical Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to a portable enclosure in
particular for sanitary purposes. The present invention also
provides a kit of parts for constructing such an enclosure. The
portable enclosure according to the invention may be an enclosure
such as a cubicle, cabin, cabana or the like for a portable toilet,
wash-room, restroom, shower or the like.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Portable toilets or rest-rooms are often used to provide
facilities where such facilities would otherwise be unavailable
such as on building and construction sites and at concerts and
sporting events. Portable toilets and similar portable enclosures
therefore have to be able to be transported to sites where they are
required and stored when not required for use.
[0006] Portable toilets and similar enclosures must have strength
and durability to withstand day-to-day use, environmental factors
such as adverse weather and to avoid damage in transit. Ideally,
the portable enclosure should occupy a minimum volume when in
transport or storage, to minimize transport and storage costs. The
construction of the portable enclosure must be as simple as
possible to facilitate assembly and disassembly, preferably with a
minimum of component parts. Ideally a basic portable enclosure
design should be adaptable to different requirements and
configurations, depending on for example the particular facilities
with which it is to be provided. These various requirements are
often at odds with each other and prior art portable toilet
enclosures often address adequately only one of the above
problems.
[0007] Conventional portable toilet enclosures typically include
walls comprising molded thermoplastic materials which are typically
secured to thermoplastically molded base and roof structures. One
of the walls typically includes a door frame with a door connected
thereto to provide access to the interior of the enclosure. The
resulting enclosure is difficult and time consuming to assemble
requiring a number of complex fastenings and the major components
are bulky and not easily stored.
[0008] Portable toilet enclosures are typically factory assembled
and transported in an assembled condition to the site where they
are to be used, or to a supplier's depot, for example. The portable
toilet, when no longer required at the site, is picked up and
transported on a vehicle whilst still assembled. The toilet is then
stored in its assembled state when not in use.
[0009] Since many prior art portable toilet enclosures are
relatively large in size, the number of assembled units that can be
transported in a given load is limited. Thus, shipping costs of
conventional types of portable toilet enclosures are often very
high. These conventional portable toilet enclosures often cannot be
moved manually, and require dedicated machinery to lift them into
and out of the desired location.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The portable enclosure of the present invention seeks to
alleviate or overcome the problems set out above. It is easily
transportable and storable whilst also being strong and durable.
The portable enclosure of the present invention also provides the
advantage of being relatively quick and easy to assemble and
disassemble and is also suitable for manual assembly.
[0011] The present invention provides an improved portable
enclosure, in particular for sanitary purposes. The term
"enclosure" may include; but is not limited to, cabins, cubicles,
cabanas, chambers, portable toilets or other portable hygiene
arrangements such as portable washrooms, rest rooms, showers and
the like. The portable enclosures of the invention are primarily,
but not exclusively, intended for use as portable toilets
(lavatories, WCs etc). Such portable toilet enclosures may
preferably also include washing facilities, at least for the hands,
comprising a water supply and washbasin or the like.
[0012] According to a first aspect of the present invention there
is provided a portable enclosure for sanitary purposes
comprising:
[0013] i). upper and lower retaining members;
[0014] ii). a plurality of support posts extending between the
retaining members and adapted to cooperate with said retaining
members to maintain the retaining members in spaced apart relation;
and
[0015] iii). a plurality of wall panels each comprising a web of
plastic material,
[0016] wherein:
[0017] the upper and lower retaining members comprise post
retaining formations which cooperate with respective upper and
lower ends of the support posts to maintain the support posts in
fixed relation to the retaining members; and
[0018] at least one of the upper and lower retaining members
comprises wall panel retaining formations by means of which
respective upper and/or lower edges of the wall panels are retained
in fixed relation to the respective retaining member.
[0019] In a particularly preferred embodiment the wall panel
retaining formations comprise non-linear concave formations in
which respective upper and/or lower edges of the wall panels are
received. Suitable concave formations are grooves or channels. Most
preferably said wall panel retaining formations extend between the
post retaining formations. Where the post receiving formations are
recesses formed in the upper or lower retaining members
respectively, the wall panel retaining formations may be in
communication with said recesses.
[0020] Preferably, both the upper and lower retaining members
comprise said wall panel retaining formations. In this way, the
wall panels are retained in position at both the upper and lower
edges.
[0021] In further preferred embodiments the support posts comprise
wall panel retaining formations in which side edges of the wall
panels are retained. Preferably the wall panel retaining formations
of the support posts comprise longitudinally extending grooves
formed in the support posts in which said side edges are
retained.
[0022] In another preferred embodiment, the portable enclosure of
the invention further comprises fastening means for said retaining
members, and said support posts comprise internal bores whereby
said fastening means cooperate with said internal bores to attach
the support posts to said fastening members. The internal bores
may, for example, be blind bores formed at the respective ends of
the support posts. The blind bores may include an internal thread
which engages a corresponding external thread of the fastening
means. Alternatively, the fastening means may comprise self-tapping
screws or bolts which engage the inner surfaces of the blind
bores.
[0023] In a further preferred embodiment, the support posts
comprise through bores and the enclosure further comprises
fastening means including a through bolt passing through each
respective bore by means of which fastening means the support posts
and the upper and lower retaining members are attached. Thus the
fastening means may comprise a through bolt having an external
thread at one or both of its ends which cooperates with an internal
thread of a suitable nut or the like. Where the through bolt has
only one threaded end, the other end thereof may, for example, have
an enlarged end portion to engage the retaining member.
Constructions including a through bolt are especially advantageous
in providing compressive strength to the portable enclosure.
[0024] In one embodiment, the through bolt comprises an eye at one
end, wherein the eye facilitates lifting of the enclosure when
assembled for use.
[0025] It is preferred that the fastening means, when fastened,
place the wall panels in compression. This is easily achieved by
means of the through bores and through bolts described above.
[0026] In another preferred arrangement, the portable enclosure
further comprises at least one roof panel attached to an upper
surface of the upper retaining member, preferably by said fastening
means.
[0027] Most preferably, the portable enclosure further comprises an
inner roof panel and an outer roof panel.
[0028] Preferably said at least one roof panel includes ventilation
means.
[0029] For providing said ventilation means, preferably said inner
and outer roof panels are maintained in spaced apart relation and
ventilation means includes one or more apertures formed in said
inner roof panel. In this way, an air flow path is provided from
the interior of the enclosure through said apertures into the space
between the inner and outer roof panels and thence to the exterior
of the enclosure. In a preferred arrangement the roof panel is
constructed as a means to prevent excessive heating of the
enclosure by sunlight. In this respect, the gap between the inner
an outer roof panels is effective and also the outer roof panel may
be made reflective to some extent on its outer surface.
[0030] In a preferred construction of the invention, the wall
panels are operatively deformed from a substantially planar
configuration for retaining the upper and/or lower edges thereof in
said wall panel retaining formations. Thus, the wall panels may be
manufactured in an essentially planar configuration. This is cost
effective and relatively simple. The wall panels are deformed into
a curved configuration on assembly of the portable enclosure.
Preferably, the wall panels are formed from a resilient material
and are retained in their non-planar configuration by the wall
panel retaining means.
[0031] In a particular embodiment, the portable enclosure further
comprises at least one hinge unit and a door hingedly mounted on
said hinge unit(s). The hinge units are mounted in either the upper
retaining member or lower retaining member or both the upper and
lower retaining members. In this way the door for the enclosure can
be mounted without the need for a separate door frame. This further
simplifies the construction of the enclosure and reduces
manufacturing costs. The door may preferably be provided with
locking means which cooperate with one of the support posts to lock
the door.
[0032] According to a second aspect of the invention there is
provided a kit of parts for assembling a portable enclosure for
sanitary purposes comprising:
[0033] i) upper and lower retaining members;
[0034] ii) a plurality of support posts for extending in use
between the retaining members and adapted, on assembly of the
enclosure, to cooperate with the retaining members to maintain the
retaining members in spaced apart relation; and;
[0035] iii) a plurality of substantially planar wall panels each
comprising a web of plastic material,
[0036] wherein:
[0037] the upper and lower retaining means comprise post receiving
formations which, on assembly of the enclosure, cooperate with
respective upper and lower ends of the support posts to maintain
the support posts in fixed relation to the retaining members; and
at least one of the upper and lower retaining members comprises
wall panel retaining formations by means of which respective upper
and/or lower edges of the wall panels are in use retained in fixed
relation to the respective retaining member.
[0038] In another preferred embodiment, the enclosure also
comprises a separate floor panel which is retained by the lower
retaining member. In another preferred arrangement, the lower
retaining member may be provided with a pallet base, either
integrally or as a separate component. The pallet base may comprise
a series of ridges which enable the enclosure to be lifted while
fully or partially assembled by known lifting means for example a
fork-lift vehicle.
[0039] In some embodiments according to the invention it may be
desirable for ease of manufacture for the upper and lower retaining
members to be substantially similar. However, although this may be
convenient, it is not essential.
[0040] In a preferred form, the portable enclosure of present
invention may be used to enclose a single toilet unit, optionally
also with hand-washing facilities. A portable enclosure of present
invention may also be used to enclose a plurality of toilet units
or shower facilities. The portable enclosure of the present
invention may be provided with a waste storage tank. Alternatively,
the enclosure may include means for connection an external waste
storage or treatment system. The interior of the enclosure may be
provided with a hot water tank facility, which is able to provide
hot water to a user via a faucet (or tap) and sink, washbasin or
shower unit.
[0041] The portable enclosure of the present invention has several
advantages over the prior art. Because the wall panels are
constructed as flat resilient panels they can be flat packed for
transportation, so reducing the volume required. This allows many
more units to be transported in a given volume (e.g. in a standard
shipping container) in comparison to conventional portable toilet
enclosures. Also, individual components of the enclosure are also
more easily replaced if damaged.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0042] For a better understanding of the invention and to show how
the same may be carried into effect, reference will be made, by way
of example only to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0043] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of one example of a
portable enclosure of the present invention;
[0044] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the portable enclosure of
FIG. 1, as assembled;
[0045] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of one alternative construction
of a portable enclosure according to the invention;
[0046] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a portable
enclosure similar to the enclosure of FIG. 3;
[0047] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another alternative
construction of a portable enclosure according to the
invention;
[0048] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portable enclosure,
excluding the panels, according to the invention.
[0049] FIG. 7a is a perspective view of one example of an upper
retaining member according to the invention;
[0050] FIG. 7b is a perspective view of one example of a lower
retaining member according to the invention;
[0051] FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-section through a part of an
enclosure of the invention showing an example of a roof
structure;
[0052] FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-section through a part of an
enclosure of the invention showing an alternative example of a roof
structure;
[0053] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-section through a lower portion
of an enclosure according to the invention;
[0054] FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-section through an alternative
lower portion of an enclosure, according to the invention;
[0055] FIG. 12 is a schematic cross section through a typical
support post and a panel of the invention;
[0056] FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-section through a lower portion
of an enclosure according to the invention showing an example of a
lower retaining member when connected to a floor panel;
[0057] FIG. 14 is a schematic cross-section through an alternative
support post and panel of the invention;
[0058] FIG. 15 is a schematic cross-section through an alternative
lower portion of an enclosure, according to the invention;
[0059] FIG. 16a is a perspective view of a typical outer roof panel
of an enclosure of the invention;
[0060] FIG. 16b is a perspective view of a typical inner roof panel
of an enclosure of the invention;
[0061] FIG. 17 is a partially exploded view of a partially complete
portable enclosure according to the invention;
[0062] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an enclosure according to
the invention illustrating typical air through flow paths;
[0063] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a typical floor panel for
an enclosure of the invention;
[0064] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a typical pallet base for
an enclosure of the invention;
[0065] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the typical waste tank
suitable for use with the enclosure of the present invention;
and
[0066] FIG. 22 is an exploded view of the waste tank of FIG.
21;
[0067] FIG. 23a is a front view of a door for an enclosure
according to the invention;
[0068] FIG. 23b is a top view of a door for an enclosure according
to the invention;
[0069] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view through a support post,
including a through bolt, for an enclosure according to the
invention.
[0070] FIG. 25 is a partial front view of a door for an enclosure
of the present invention;
[0071] FIG. 26 is a schematic perspective view of a door hinge of a
door for an enclosure according to the invention.
[0072] FIG. 27 is a schematic perspective view of a door hinge of a
door for an enclosure according to the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0073] Throughout the description and claims of this specification,
the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise
requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the
specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as
well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.
[0074] Features, integers, characteristics, compounds, described in
conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the
invention are to be understood to be applicable to any other
aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless incompatible
therewith.
[0075] Throughout the description and claims of this specification,
the words "comprise" and "contain" and variations of the words, for
example "comprising" and "comprises", mean "including but not
limited to", and are not intended to (and do not) exclude other
moieties, additives, components, integers or steps.
[0076] Referring now, in particular to FIGS. 1 to 5, in which
identical or similar components have been given like reference
numbers, an enclosure 1 is illustrated which is primarily suitable
for providing a portable (relocatable) toilet or, alternatively, a
washroom or shower facility.
[0077] The enclosure 1 comprises a lower retaining member 5 and an
upper retaining member 7. The enclosure 1 also comprises at least
two support posts 9, 9'. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and
5 the enclosure has four support posts 9. The embodiment shown in
FIGS. 3 and 4 has six support posts 9. Other embodiments (not
shown) may comprise a differing number of support posts. The
enclosure according to the invention also comprises a plurality of
panels 3 which form the walls of the enclosure 1. In preferred
embodiments, an enclosure comprising n support posts 9, 9' will
comprise n-1 wall panels 3. Thus in FIGS. 1, 2 and 5 there are
three wall panels 3 and in FIGS. 3 and 4 there are five wall panels
3. As will be described below, this construction allows for the
provision of an entry and exit door to the enclosure. In FIG. 1
ghost lines 3' and arrows 3'' indicate the deformation of the wall
panels 3 on assembly from an initial substantially planar
configuration to a curved configuration.
[0078] The lower retaining member 5 preferably comprises upper and
lower surfaces indicated generally at 5a and 5b respectively, outer
side surfaces 21, 23, 25, 27 and inner side surfaces 22, 24, 26, 28
so that the lower retaining member defines an internal void 33 (see
FIG. 7b). The inner side surfaces 22, 24, 26, 28 may together
define an essentially circular shape, or a rounded square shape as
shown in FIG. 7b, or any other suitable shape. The lower surface 5b
may be substantially planar or include substantially planar regions
on which the enclosure 1 can rest stably on a supporting surface
such as the ground. The upper surface 5a may generally be shaped as
desired (e.g. for aesthetic considerations) but must include a
plurality of post retaining formations 17 for engaging and
retaining the lower ends of the posts 9, 9'. Preferably the upper
surface 5a comprises a number of bores or recesses 17 into which
the lower end of the support posts 9, 9' are inserted in use. As
can be seen in FIGS. 8 and 9, the recesses 17 preferably comprise a
through bore with a shoulder 17s against which lower ends of the
posts 9, 9' lie. In the illustrated embodiments, the number of
recesses 17 in the lower retaining member is equal to the number of
support posts 9, 9' making up the enclosure. In alternative
embodiments, a greater number of recesses 17 may be provided to
allow flexibility in the location of posts 9, 9', for example to
accommodate different sizes of panels 3. The lower ends of the
support posts fit into the respective recesses 17 such that the
support posts 9, 9' are positioned substantially vertically upright
during use.
[0079] In one particular arrangement, the lower and upper retaining
members 5, 7 are of broadly similar size and shape, the upper
retaining member 7 being arranged in use in a planar orientation
opposite to that of the lower retaining member 5. The upper
retaining member 7 comprises a plurality of post retaining
formations 18 which correspond to the formations 17 of the upper
retaining member 7. The post retaining formations are preferably
recesses and all for accommodating upper ends of the support posts
9, 9', and the upper ends of the support posts are located and
retained in these recesses 18 in the assembled enclosure. The
recesses 18 preferably comprise through bores, the upper open ends
of which are shown at 31 in FIGS. 1 and 4 and 7a, 8 and 9, the
bores 18 including a shoulder 18s against which the upper end of
the respective support post 9, 9' rests.
[0080] The shape of the lower and upper retaining members 5, 7 as
defined by the external side surfaces may generally be selected as
desired, for example, in accordance with aesthetic considerations.
In the embodiment of FIGS. 1, 2 5 and 7b the external side surfaces
comprise two opposed curved sides 25 and 27 and two opposed
straight sides 21 and 23. In the region of the straight side 21,
the lower retaining member 5 may preferably be shaped to provide a
step 29.
[0081] In alternative embodiments of the invention, the upper
retaining member 7 and the lower retaining member 5 may differ in
size and/or shape. For example, the outer perimeter of the lower
and upper retaining members may be essentially circular.
Alternatively, the retaining members 5, 7 may have an outer
perimeter which is square or octagonal in shape, or approximately
hexagonal, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. Equally, the inner side
surface of the retaining members 5, 7 may define a void which may
be, for example, square, hexagonal or octagonal or irregular in
shape.
[0082] As noted above, the enclosure 1 comprises at least one
resilient panel 3. In the embodiment as shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 5,
the enclosure comprises three resilient panels forming respectively
three walls of the enclosure. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 4
the enclosure 1 comprises five resilient panels forming
respectively five walls of the enclosure. In other embodiments, the
enclosure of the invention may comprise more or fewer panels than
the embodiments illustrated. For example, one embodiment may
comprise seven panels to provide an enclosure which is generally
octagonal in shape.
[0083] For retaining the panels 3 in their position of use, the
posts 9, 9' are provided with wall panel retaining formations in
the form of oppositely directed longitudinal grooves 55 (FIG. 12
and FIG. 14), preferably along the entire length thereof. Side edge
portions of the panels 3 are received in and supported by the
grooves 55 of the posts 9, 9'. In preferred embodiments, the
grooves 55 are defined by opposed laterally extending flanges 61 in
conjunction with flanges 57 depending from the main body of the
posts 9, 9'. Clearly, the location of the recesses 17, 18 of the
retaining members 5, 7 in which the posts 9, 9' rest must be
selected in relation to the width of the panels 3 such that the
side edges of the panels are comfortably and securely retained in
the grooves 55.
[0084] The lower retaining member 5 comprises means for retaining
the panels in a substantially upright position during use. In the
preferred embodiment as illustrated, the means for retaining the
panels comprise a groove 13 formed in the upper surface of the
lower retaining member 5 so that the lower edge 31 of the panel is
received in use into the groove 13. The groove 13 most preferably
intersects the post retaining recesses 17. In alternative
embodiments, the lower retaining member may comprise, for example,
a shoulder, against which the lower edge of the panels 3 rests. The
groove 13 is non-linear, preferably being curved so that the panel
3 must adopt a correspondingly non-planar configuration in order to
be seated in the groove 13. Similarly, where alternative retaining
means for the panel are provided on the lower retaining member 5,
these are also constructed so that the panel 3 must adopt a
non-planar configuration. To allow them to adopt a curved
configuration, the panels 3 are made from a resilient material
which allows them to be deformed from their initially flat
configuration. Manufacture of the panels 3 in an initially flat
configuration has clear advantages for transport and storage of the
panels 3.
[0085] The upper retaining member 7 comprises corresponding means
for retaining the panels 3 in use. In the illustrated embodiment,
the upper retaining member 7 has a groove (not shown) running
therein on the lower (in use) surface 7b thereof which is
essentially similar to the groove 13 of the lower retaining member
5 and which groove in the upper retaining member receives the upper
edges of the panels 3. In alternative embodiments, the upper
retaining member 7 may comprise, for example, a shoulder, against
which the upper edge of the panels 3 rests.
[0086] Thus, when assembled, the panels 3 of the enclosure 1 of the
invention are supported at all four side edges thereof by receiving
the respective sides in appropriately formed grooves 13, 55 or
other formations. The shape of the grooves 13 dictates that the
panels 3 adopt a non-linear, preferably curved, configuration which
enhances the ability of the panels to withstand vertical
compressive forces in use. The panels 3 are also preferably formed
with corrugations which further enhance the strength of the panels
without significantly limiting their flexibility and resilience.
The panels may be formed of any suitable plastics material as may
easily be selected by a person skilled in the art.
[0087] Cross-sections of examples of a suitable support post are
shown in FIGS. 12 and 14. The support posts 9, 9' in this
embodiment are conveniently formed as extruded plastic or metal
(e.g. aluminum) sections and are preferably nominally the same
length as the panels 3. Depending on the relative depths of the
grooves 13 and the recesses 17, 18 the support posts 9, 9' may be
longer or shorter than the length of the panels 3. A bore 49
preferably runs longitudinally through the whole length of the post
9, 9'. In an alternative embodiment, the support post is provided
with blind bores situated within its respective ends. Blind bores
49A are shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 8, 10 and 13. In one
embodiment, the bore 49A accommodates thread cutting bolts 51, as
shown in FIGS. 8, 10 and 13 for securing the posts 9, 9' to the
upper and lower retaining members 5, 7. Alternatively, however, as
shown in FIGS. 9, 11, 14, 15 and 24, preferably a single through
bolt 510 is provided which runs through a bore 49 along the entire
length of the support post 9, 9', to provide compressive strength
to the enclosure. The through bolt is then provided with externally
threaded portions at its respective ends to which a securing nut
100 is attached for securing the bolt to the respective upper and
lower retaining members 7, 5. Alternatively, the through bolt 510
may have a threaded nut-receiving portion at one end only, in which
case an enlarged end portion is provided at the other end of the
bolt. In variations, the through bolt 510 may have internally
threaded bores at its ends which receive corresponding externally
threaded securing bolts.
[0088] As can be seen in FIG. 12, the support post 9 comprises
cavities 55a which receive the side edges 3s of the panel 3. The
cavity 55a has a narrow entrance 55b into which the edge 3s of the
panel fits. The entrance 55b is defined by end portions 61a of a
flange 61 and flanges 57. The support post 9 may desirably comprise
an inner face 59 and an outer face 67 which are generally flat.
[0089] FIG. 14 shows an alternative embodiment of the support post
9'. The support post 9' comprises alternative wall panel retaining
formations. The support post 9' is functionally similar to the
embodiment shown in FIG. 12 but includes a dome-shaped wall 101 in
section, which defines the external surface of the post 9'. The
dome-shaped wall 101 may provide additional strength to the wall
panel retaining formations of the support post 9'. Dome-shaped wall
101 is connected to opposed laterally extending flanges 61. The
support post 9' comprises cavities 55a which received the side
edges 3s of the panel 3. The support post 9' also comprises an
inner face 590 which is generally flat.
[0090] Preferably, as in the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 5, one or
more rails 63 are attached to the support posts, preferably after
the panels 3 have been placed in position. The rail 63, which may
be formed in sections, sits around the perimeter of the enclosure 1
and comprises several securing points, for example, screw holes by
means of which the rail 63 is attached to the support posts 9
during assembly of the enclosure by screws or other equivalent
fastening means. The rail 63 preferably comprises an extrusion
plastic or other suitable material (for example, a metal or
metallic material or a plastic/metal composite). In one particular
embodiments (FIG. 17), the rail 63 is formed from three separate
pieces that are fixed together to form a single rail. Different
embodiments may have different numbers of sections forming the rail
63. The rail 63 can provide added strength and support to the
enclosure structure and may also provide a handle or attachment
point which can be used during assembly or to move the enclosure
while in its assembled state.
[0091] In one embodiment of the upper retaining member 7 as
illustrated in FIG. 8, the upper retaining member 7 has a ridge 15
defining an upwardly directed surface 15a to which a roof panel 35
for the enclosure is secured.
[0092] As illustrated in FIG. 13, in one embodiment, the lower
retaining member 5 may have a generally similar shape to the upper
retaining member 7 of FIG. 8 but inverted with respect to the upper
retaining member 7 and consequently comprises a ridge 19 defining a
surface 19a which is lowermost in use. The surface 19a contacts the
ground when the enclosure is assembled and positioned in its use
position.
[0093] The roof panel 35 has bores 37 through which fastening means
51 be passed in order to secure the roof panel to the upper
retaining member 7. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 the same
screw passes through the roof panel 35, and the upper retaining
member 7 and into the bore 49A of the support post to secure all
these components together. In the alternative embodiment where a
single bolt 510 extends through the whole length of a bore 49 of
the support post 9, 9', this bolt may also be used to secure the
roof panel 35 (FIG. 9). This embodiment is also shown in FIG. 24.
These arrangements have the advantage of minimizing the number of
components required to produce the enclosure 1 of the invention.
However, in alternative arrangements the roof panel 35 may be
secured to the upper retaining member 7 by dedicated fastening
means such as screws which attach at points other than the bore 49
of the posts 9, 9'.
[0094] As shown in FIG. 24, the fastening means, in the illustrated
embodiment is a through bolt 510 may further comprise a lifting eye
80 at one end. In particular embodiments, the lifting eye 80 is at
an end of the fastening means which passes through the roof panel
35 and the upper retaining member 7. Preferably, the fastening
means is a single bolt 510 which extends through the whole length
of the bore 49 of the support post 9, 9'. The bolt 510 may secure
the lower retaining member 5, the base panel 58', the upper
retaining member 7 and the roof panel 35, 64, 68 together. Each
bore 49 of each support post 9, 9' of the enclosure 1 may comprise
a bolt 510 which extends the length of the bore 49. The provision
of a single through bolt 510 in one or more than one of the support
posts 9, 9' which extends from the base panel 58' to the roof panel
35 results in the panels of the enclosure being held in compression
when the enclosure 1 is assembled, which imparts rigidity to the
enclosure 1.
[0095] In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, 5, and 8,
the roof panel 35 and the upper retaining member 7 are constructed
to provide ventilation means for the enclosure 1. In particular,
the roof panel 35 is provided with flat lands 70 in the area around
the securing bores 37, the lands 70 having a lower surface 72. A
radially inward part 72a of the surface 72 provides the only point
of contact between the roof panel 35 and the ridge surface 15a on
which the roof panel 35 rests in use. Thus a gap, indicated
schematically by arrows "A" in FIG. 8 exists between the roof panel
35 and the ridge 15 (other than at parts 72a) which gap provides
for the passage of air into and out of the enclosure 1.
[0096] In an alternative embodiment shown in FIGS. 4, 6, 9, 16a,
16b, 17 and 18 the roof of the enclosure 1 comprises an inner roof
panel 68 and an outer roof panel 64. Outer roof panel 64 is similar
to roof panel 35 of FIG. 8 and is secured to upper retaining member
7 by suitable fastening means acting on lands 70, said lands 70
having a lower surface 72. The fastening means may preferably
cooperate with bores 49, 49A of support posts 9, 9'. Inner roof
panel 68 is disposed in use between the upper retaining member 7
and the outer roof panel 64 and is preferably secured by the same
fastening means as the outer roof panel 64, the fastening means
passing through bores 60 of the inner roof panel 68. In this case
lower surfaces 72 of the outer panel 64 lie against a peripheral
flange 69 of the inner roof panel 68. The inner and outer roof
panels 68, 64 are mounted in spaced apart relation so that a gap is
provided between the respective roof panels. Inner roof panel 68
preferably has a substantially gapless fit at its outer periphery
against upper retaining means 7, which may be provided by the
peripheral flange 69.
[0097] The inner roof panel 68 comprises one or more apertures 66
which provide ventilation means for the enclosure. In this
embodiment, the fastening means may be a bolt 510 as described
before. Thus, the inner roof panel 68 and outer roof panel 64 are
secured together via a bolt 510 which also secures the upper
retaining means 7, the lower retaining member 5 and the base panel
58'.
[0098] As illustrated in FIG. 19 and 20, the construction of the
inner and outer roof panels 68, 64 of this embodiment provides
ventilation for the enclosure 1 by allowing a flow of air through
the enclosure 1 indicated by arrows B, C, D, E and F of FIG. 18.
Relatively cooler air, indicated by arrows B enters a lower part of
the enclosure 1, for example under door 11. The air becomes
progressively warmer as it passes upwardly through the enclosure 1,
indicated by arrows C.sub.1, C.sub.2 and C.sub.3. As indicated by
arrows E, the air passes through the apertures 66 into the space
between the inner roof panel 68 and the outer roof panel 64 and
thence out of the enclosure 1 as shown by arrows F. Assuming (as is
usual) that there is movement of the ambient air outside the
enclosure 1 (i.e. there is a wind or breeze) air also enters the
gap between the respective roof panels 68, 64, indicated by arrows
D, and leaves as indicated by arrows F. This air flow also assists
in drawing air through the enclosure 1 (specifically through
apertures 66).
[0099] The outer roof panel 64 may provide heat shielding means for
the enclosure, such that the interior of the enclosure 1 is
shielded from overhead heat from the sun and heat is deflected away
from the main body of the enclosure 1. The gap between the
respective roof panels 64, 68 also assists in minimizing the
penetration of heat into the enclosure 1. The outer roof panel 64
may be made of a reflective material to reflect light from the sun
away and therefore reduce the heat inside the enclosure.
[0100] For access to the enclosure 1 of the invention, a door 11 is
provided disposed between two of the supporting posts 9, 9'. The
door 11 is desirably formed as a plastics molding, (e.g. by vacuum
forming) preferably comprising only a single skin. The door 11 is
provided with hinges 41 which are mountable respectively in the
lower and upper retaining means 5, 7. For example, the hinges may
comprise a plate portion attached to the door 11 and an upwardly or
downwardly directed cylindrical finger which is received in a
bearing cup. The bearing cup is in turn mounted in a bore 40 of the
respective upper or lower retaining member 7, 5. The fingers can
rotate with respect to their bearing cup about a common nominally
vertical axis so allowing the door to be opened and closed. The
hinges may be of self-closing construction or separate means, such
as a suitable spring, may be provided for urging the door 11 into a
closed position.
[0101] In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 23, 26 and 27, the
hinges do not comprise a plate portion attached to the door.
Instead, the hinge 41 comprises a tube-like structure or rod-like
structure which is situated in a through bore 84 accommodated in a
longitudinal edge 86 of the door 11 which is generally upright
during use. The longitudinal edge may have a curved surface, as
shown in FIG. 26.
[0102] In the illustrated embodiment, the structure is a hollow
tube 82 which sits inside the bore 84. In one embodiment, the door
is provided with a through bore at each longitudinal edge. In the
embodiment shown in FIG. 23, the door 11 is provided with a through
bore 84 at one longitudinal edge 86 whilst the opposing
longitudinal edge is provided with a reinforcing plate 88. The
reinforcing plate 88 may extend along substantially the entire
longitudinal length of the door 11. In one embodiment (not shown),
the reinforcing plate 88 is in the form of a hollow tube. The
reinforcing plate 88 may be made from any material which would be
apparent to the skilled person to be suitable to provide rigidity
to the reinforcing plate 88. For example, the reinforcing plate may
be constructed from, for example, metal such as steel or aluminum.
The reinforcing plate may rest on a surface of the support post 9,
9', as shown in FIG. 23b.
[0103] In particular embodiments, the hinge 41 comprises a bearing
cup 90 mounted within a bore 92 of the respective upper retaining
member 7 (not shown) or lower retaining member 5 (see FIG. 26).
Each of the lower retaining member 5 and the upper retaining member
7 comprise a bore 92.
[0104] A hinge pin 94 is situated within the hinge tube 82 adjacent
to each of the lower and upper retaining members 5, 7. The hinge
pin 94 may be made from, for example, plastic, nylon or any other
suitable material. The hinge pin 94 is accommodated within the tube
82 and also within the bearing cup 90 of each of the lower and
upper retaining members. The bearing cup 90 may be tapered. In this
instance, the bore is correspondingly tapered to ensure the bearing
cup fits securely within the bore 92. The hinge pin 94 is
preferably similarly tapered to ensure a secure fit within the bore
92 and the bearing cup 90. The bearing cup 90 may comprise a collar
96 at an end presented on the surface of the upper and lower
retaining members respectively. The hinge pin 94 may comprise a
corresponding collar 98 which abuts the bearing cup collar 96 and,
in the case of the lower part of the enclosure, rests on it during
use. An end of the hinge tube 82 abuts the collar 98 of the hinge
pin 94. In these embodiments, one end of the hinge tube 82 abuts
the collar of the hinge pin which is located in the lower retaining
member 5 and the other end of the hinge tube 82 abuts the collar of
the hinge pin which is located in the upper retaining member 7.
[0105] FIG. 26 shows the tube 82 extending only a short length
along the through bore 84 of the door 11. This is for ease of
reference and it will be appreciated that, in particular
embodiments, the tube extends along substantially the full
longitudinal length of the door panel. The hinge tube 82 in
particular embodiments, therefore, extends substantially the full
height of the door 11 of the portable enclosure 1.
[0106] In other embodiments, it is envisaged that the hinge tube 82
does not extend the full length of the through bore 84. In these
embodiments, the enclosure may be supplied with an upper hinge tube
and a lower hinge tube which are located in the through bore 84 of
the door.
[0107] FIG. 25 shows the longitudinal edge 86 of the door 11. FIG.
25 omits the upper retaining member 7 and thus shows the upper
bearing cup 90. In use, the upper bearing cup will be situated in a
bore in the upper retaining member 7.
[0108] A rivet 102 or plurality of rivets are provided to fix the
tube 82, the through bore 84, the longitudinal edge 86 of the door
and the hinge pin 94 together, as shown in FIG. 26.
[0109] The door 11 may further comprise a locking system. In this
embodiment, the locking system is a latch mechanism 62 which
cooperates with an adjacent support post 9 to retain the door 11 in
a closed condition.
[0110] The enclosure 1 of the invention most preferably also
comprises a floor panel 45. The floor panel in this embodiment is
typically approximately 10 to 20 mm, especially about 16 mm thick
and made of a suitable plastic material or of any equivalent
material, which is rigid and capable of bearing considerable weight
without damage.
[0111] As shown in FIG. 13 and 19, for example, the floor panel 45
is shaped to have an extent at least equal to that of the internal
void 33 as defined by the inner side edges of the lower retaining
member 5. The lower retaining member 5 typically comprises a
plurality of bores 46 located radially inwardly of the ridge 19 and
which are adapted to accommodate fastening means 38 such as bolts
or screws for securing the floor panel to the lower retaining
member 5. As shown in FIG. 13, the floor panel has a rebate 47
around its outer edge to accommodate head portions of the fastening
means 38.
[0112] As shown in FIG. 20, an additional pallet base panel 58 may
be provided, which is attached to the floor panel 45 or to the
lower retaining member 5 and is situated underneath the floor panel
45 during use. The pallet base panel 58 is of a corresponding
peripheral shape to the floor panel 45. The pallet base panel 58
comprises ridges 48 on one of its surfaces 54. This surface can be
considered as a lower surface of the pallet base panel since it
contacts the ground once the enclosure has been assembled and is
ready for use. The ridges 48 are dimensioned such that known
lifting vehicles or machinery can lift and maneuver the enclosure 1
when fully or partially assembled.
[0113] FIGS. 11 and 15 show an alternative embodiment of the lower
retaining member 5'. The lower retaining member 5' has a floor
panel 45' which is integral with the lower retaining member rather
than being separate. A pallet base panel 58' may be provided, which
is attached to the lower retaining member 5' and situated
underneath the lower retaining member 5' during use.
[0114] The enclosure may also comprise a toilet facility 65, as
shown in FIGS. 21 and 22. The toilet facility 65 is disposed inside
the enclosure 1 once assembled and rests on the floor panel 45. The
toilet facility 65 may be formed from two separate components: a
receptacle or tank 158 and a lid 156. The lid 156 may be front
hinged (e.g. by hinges 157) to the receptacle 158. The lid has an
opening 154 to allow the waste to enter the receptacle. The
two-part construction of the toilet facility 65 allows the
respective components 156, 158 to be stacked, so minimizing the
space occupied by these components during transportation and
storage. In an alternative embodiment, the toilet facility need not
be hinged. In this embodiment, the two parts of the toilet facility
may be riveted together such that the interior of the toilet
facility cannot be easily accessed without removing the rivets.
[0115] It is envisaged that the enclosure may be fitted with other
types of waste disposal arrangements, where available, as is
generally known in the art. For example, the receptacle 158 may be
connected to an existing sewage system if available.
[0116] The enclosure 1 of the invention is usually, though not
essentially, initially transported in a disassembled state and
assembled at the site of use or at a supplier's depot, for example.
To assemble the enclosure of the invention, the support posts 9, 9'
are inserted into the recesses 17 of the lower retaining member 5.
The panels 3 are then mounted so that their side edges are received
in the grooves 55 of the support posts 9, 9' and their lower edges
are received in the grooves 13 of the lower retaining member 5. The
shape of the grooves 13 requires the panels 3 to flex so that they
form curved side walls. The flexed side walls 3 are more resistant
to forces such as compressive forces than straight side walls. The
upper retaining member 7 is then mounted so that the upper ends of
the support posts 9, 9' are received in the recesses 18 and the
upper side edges of the panels 3 are received in the grooves 13 of
the upper retaining member. The enclosure roof 35 (64, 68) may then
be fitted to the upper retaining member. The whole structure is
secured together using bolts or screws as described above. The
order of assembly may differ from that outlined above in particular
situations and embodiments. The door 11, support rail 63 and
interior fittings are added at a convenient time in the assembly
procedure.
[0117] The enclosure can be supplied with a variety of different
interior components, depending on the user's requirements. For
example, the enclosure may contain a single toilet facility or
multiple toilet facilities with appropriate separating screens.
[0118] Washing facilities including, for example a sink or
washbasin may be included. The sink may supply a user with hot and/
or cold water via a faucet, in which case fresh water storage means
and water heating means may be required.
[0119] In a further alternative use, the enclosure may also
accommodate a shower unit. Again, this embodiment may include its
own water provision facility in the form of a water tank and water
heater. Alternatively, the enclosure may comprise means to connect
the enclosure to an existing permanent water supply on site.
[0120] The present invention provides several advantages over the
prior art. The enclosure may be easily dismantled into its
components parts and transported in a dismantled state. This has
the advantage of enabling individual components to be stacked
within a transport container, which thus allows a greater number of
enclosures to be transported in a single container and reduces
transport costs.
[0121] For example, it is envisaged that a plurality of floor
panels 45 may be stacked vertically, one on top of the other and
transported. Thus, in a standard transport container, which is
approximately 2.7 m high, approximately 40 floor panels 45 may be
stacked in a single column. A plurality of roof panels 35 or inner
roof panels 68 may be stacked in columns in a transport container.
Similarly, in a standard transport container 2.7 m in height,
approximately 40 roof panels may be stacked in a single column. A
similar principle applies to the pallet base panel and outer roof
panel, wherein approximately 200 pallet base panels or outer roof
panels may be stacked in a single column 2.7 m high. The ease with
which the flat wall panels 3 and support posts 9, 9' may be stacked
is readily apparent.
[0122] The ease of stacking individual components of the enclosure
enables between 140 and 170 enclosures to be transported in a
single shipping container of standard size
(12.06.times.2.34.times.2.69 m). The enclosure of the present
invention may be transported in greater numbers than prior art
enclosures, thus reducing transport costs and increasing speed of
delivery. In particular embodiments, once assembled, the portable
enclosure is between 1800 mm and 2000 mm in height. In one
embodiment, the portable enclosure is between 1850 and 1900 mm in
height. Specifically, the portable enclosure is approximately 1870
mm in height.
[0123] The preferred features of the invention are applicable to
all aspects of the invention and may be used in any possible
combination.
* * * * *