System and Method for Positioning a First Structure Relative to a Second Structure

Abstract

A system is described for positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the system including a suspension element securable to the second structure, and a moving device having a portion for supporting the first structure and a part for engaging the suspension element, wherein the part for engaging the suspension element is configured for effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

The invention relates to a system for positioning a first structure relative to a structure, and to a method for the same. The invention relates, in particular, but not exclusively, to a system for use in positioning modular units in relation to an underside of a structural member, e.g. a soffit, by raising and holding the units in position.

In the building construction industry prefabricated modular units are commonly installed to provide pipes and wiring in a preconfigured arrangement. The use of modular units saves on both installation time and cost, and allows a uniform configuration of wiring and pipes to be easily used throughout a building. In the process of installing the units, a lifting device such as a Genie™ lifting device or a scissor lift, has been used to lift and then support the unit in position relative to a soffit, whilst engineers attach the unit to the soffit. The modular unit is therefore suspended from the soffit.

In the past, modules typically weighed approximately 100 kg, and had dimensions in the order of 6 m×1 m×0.25 m (depth). However, as the popularity of modular unit installation has increased, the scope of the method, and the size of the units to be installed has also increased. It is now common for modules to weigh between 500 kg and 750 kg, and for the dimensions of a unit to be in the order of 6 m×3 m×1 m (depth). This increase in the weight and dimensions of the modular units has meant that traditional methods of lifting and supporting the units are no longer suitable for the purpose, and in the case where traditional methods are still being used, this causes potential safety issues. There is a real danger that, when using more than one forklift device or scissor lift device to lift a large modular unit, one or more of the devices may become unbalanced. This may lead to the modular unit being dropped, which is likely to cause damage to the unit itself, to the structure of the building, and to the lifting devices. Furthermore, the safety of the engineers operating the equipment may be put at risk.

Due to the increasing use, size and weight of prefabricated modules, improved methods for raising the units into position are required.

According to an aspect of the invention, we provide a system for positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the system including a suspension element securable to the second structure, and a moving device having a portion for supporting the first structure and a part for engaging the suspension element, wherein the part for engaging the suspension element is configured for effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element.

According to another aspect of the invention, we provide system for positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the system including a suspension element securable to the second structure, a holding part for holding the first structure relative to the suspension element, and a moving device having a portion for supporting the first structure and a part for engaging the suspension element, wherein the part for engaging the suspension element is configured for effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element.

According to another aspect of the invention, we provide a system for positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the system including a suspension element securable to the second structure, a means for cutting the suspension element, and a moving device having a portion for supporting the first structure and a part for engaging the suspension element, wherein the part for engaging the suspension element is configured for effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element wherein

According to another aspect of the invention, we provide a system for positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the system including a suspension element securable to the second structure, a moving device having a portion for supporting the first structure and a part for engaging the suspension element, and a means for measuring usage data representing the usage of the moving device, wherein the part for engaging the suspension element is configured for effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element, and wherein usage data represents at least one of: the number of times the moving device has been operated, and the duration of time over which the moving device has been operated.

According to another aspect of the invention, we provide a system for positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the system including a suspension element securable to the second structure, a moving device having a portion for supporting the first structure and a part for engaging the suspension element, and position detecting means for determining the position of the moving device, wherein the part for engaging the suspension element is configured for effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element.

According to another aspect of the invention, we provide a system for positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the system including a suspension element securable to the second structure, a moving device having a portion for supporting the first structure and a part for engaging the suspension element, and a remote control unit and wireless communication means for sending and receiving data between the remote control unit and the moving device, wherein the part for engaging the suspension element is configured for effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element, and the control unit is operable to control the operation of the moving device in response to data received from the moving device.

The moving device may include a receiving formation for receiving the suspension element.

The moving device may include an engagement formation having a rotatable element for rotation about an axis, the rotatable element being supported on a support part, wherein the rotation of the rotatable element effects movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element.

The engagement formation may be configured for engaging a portion of the suspension element with a peripheral surface of the rotatable element.

The suspension element may include a plurality of linkages which are rotatably connected to one another, and the peripheral surface of the rotatable element may include formations for engaging the linkages in the suspension element.

The engagement formation may include a plurality of rotatable elements and a plurality of support parts, wherein each rotatable element is supported on a respective support part.

The system may include a plurality of suspension elements, each being securable to the second structure, and a plurality of moving devices each having a portion for supporting a respective portion of the first structure and a part for engaging a respective suspension element.

According to another aspect of the invention, we provide a method of positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the method including the steps of securing a suspension element to the second structure, positioning a moving device such that a portion thereof supports the first structure and such that a part thereof engages the suspension element, and effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element so as to cause the first structure to move relative to the second structure.

According to another aspect of the invention, we provide a method of positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the method including the steps of securing a suspension element to the second structure, positioning a moving device such that a portion thereof supports the first structure and such that a part thereof engages the suspension element, effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element so as to cause the first structure to move relative to the second structure, and holding the first structure relative to the suspension element, thereby holding the first structure relative to the second structure.

According to another aspect of the invention, we provide a method of positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the method including the steps of securing a suspension element to the second structure, positioning a moving device such that a portion thereof supports the first structure and such that a part thereof engages the suspension element, effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element so as to cause the first structure to move relative to the second structure, holding the first structure relative to the suspension element, thereby holding the first structure relative to the second structure, and removing the moving device from the suspension element once the first structure is held relative to the suspension element.

According to another aspect of the invention, we provide a method of positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the method including the steps of securing a suspension element to the second structure, positioning a moving device such that a portion thereof supports the first structure and such that a part thereof engages the suspension element, effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element so as to cause the first structure to move relative to the second structure, receiving at a control unit data transmitted from position detecting means, and controlling the moving device in response to the data received by transmitting a signal to the moving device from the control unit, wherein the control unit controls the moving device by determining whether one or more of the data has exceeded a predetermined limit and determining the signal to transmit accordingly.

According to another aspect of the invention, we provide a method of positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the method including the steps of securing a suspension element to the second structure, positioning a moving device such that a portion thereof supports the first structure and such that a part thereof engages the suspension element, effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element so as to cause the first structure to move relative to the second structure, securing a plurality of suspension elements to the second structure, positioning a separate moving device relative to each suspension element such that a portion of each moving device supports the first structure, and effecting movement of each moving device relative to its respective suspension element so as to cause the first structure to move relative to the second structure.

The method may include the step of cutting the suspension element so as to sever an unused portion of the suspension element disposed below the holding part once the first structure has been secured relative to the suspension element.

The predetermined limit may define a distance between the second structure and the moving device or the first structure.

The distance defined by the predetermined limit may indicate a target position of the first structure or moving device relative to the second structure.

The data received at the control unit from the position detecting means may be used to calculate the position of the moving device or first structure relative to the second structure.

The position detecting means may include a RFID transmitter and RFID receiver, wherein one of the RFID transmitter and RFID receiver is positioned on the moving device or on the first structure, and the other one of the RFID transmitter and RFID receiver is positioned on the second structure or at a known position relative to the second structure.

The position detecting means may include a GPS unit positioned on the moving device or on the first structure.

The method may further include: securing a plurality of suspension elements to the second structure, positioning a separate moving device relative to each suspension element such that a portion of each moving device supports the first structure, and effecting movement of each moving device relative to its respective suspension element so as to cause the first structure to move relative to the second structure.

The step of controlling each moving device may include determining the position of each moving device relative to at least one other moving device and transmitting a signal to that moving device accordingly.

Each movement device may be controlled until the first structure is supported in an approximately level orientation.

The method may include the step of positioning either a RFID transmitter or RFID receiver on the first structure adjacent to each moving device or on each moving device, and positioning the other of a RFID transmitter and RFID receiver in a known position, and using the signal (or signals) received by the RFID receiver (or receivers, respectively) to determine relative positions of each moving device.

The method may include the step of positioning a GPS unit on each moving device or on the first structure adjacent to each moving device, wherein positional information determined by the GPS units is used to determine the relative positions of the moving devices.

Further features for the various aspects of the invention are set out in the claims appended hereto.

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

FIG. 1 is a side view of the system of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the system as shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a moving device;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a moving device;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of yet another alternative embodiment of a moving device;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a further alternative embodiment of a moving device;

FIG. 8 is a series of four cross-sectional views showing an alternative embodiment of the system during steps of a method of operation, and

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a moving device.

FIG. 1 of the drawings shows a system for positioning a first structure 10 (hereinafter referred to as a modular unit) relative to a second structure 12 (which is in this case a soffit of a structural member of a building). The system includes a moving device 16 positioned on a suspension element 14, such that a portion of the moving device 16 supports the modular unit 10, and such that a part 20 of the moving device 10 engages a portion of the suspension element 14. The system as described below includes a single suspension element 14 and a single moving device 16. However, the system may operate with a single suspension element 14 and a single moving device 16, or it may include a plurality of suspension elements 14 and a respective number of moving devices 16, wherein one moving device 16 is positioned on each suspension element 14.

The system shown in FIG. 1 includes two moving devices 16, each being positioned on a respective suspension element 14, and each moving device having a portion supporting a part of the modular unit 10. It is envisaged that a modular unit of typical weight and dimensions could be positioned using six moving devices and respective suspension elements.

The suspension element 14 is an elongate element of high tensile strength, such as a steel wire. Alternatively, the suspension element 14 may be a threaded metal rod. In use, one end of the suspension element 14 is secured (by any appropriate means) to the soffit 12 so that it extends downwardly therefrom.

FIGS. 2 and 3 of the drawings show the moving device 16 supporting the modular unit 10. Moving device 16 includes a housing 18, containing a part 20 for engaging the suspension element 14 (hereinafter referred to as “engagement part” 20). In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the engagement part 20 comprises a pair of rotatable elements 22, each being supported on, and rotatable relative to, a respective support part located within the housing 18. The rotatable elements 22 are spaced from one another by a distance equal to or slightly less than the diameter of the suspension element 14, so as to allow the suspension element 14 to fit therebetween for engagement with both rotatable elements 22. The rotatable elements 22 are disposed within a housing 18, which prevents external interference to the rotation of the rotatable elements 22.

The suspension element 14 enters the moving device 16 through a receiving formation in the upper surface of the housing 18, and is engaged between the rotatable elements 22. The rotatable elements 22 and/or support parts may be spring-biased inwardly, towards the suspension element 14, to improve the engagement therebetween. At least one motor and a battery (both not shown) for powering the motor(s) are disposed within the housing 18 for providing rotational drive to the rotatable elements 22. As indicated in FIG. 3, the rotatable elements 22 are configured to rotate in opposing directions. As the rotatable elements 22 rotate, the suspension element 14 is pulled between them, thereby effecting movement of the support parts, and consequently the whole moving device 16, in an upwardly direction relative to the suspension element 14.

The portion of the suspension element 14 that is disposed below the engagement part 20 is effectively an “unused” portion, as it bears none of the weight of the moving device 16 or modular unit 10. This unused portion of the suspension element 14 extends out of the housing 18 through an exit formation, to hang below the moving device 16.

The modular unit 10 is typically supported within or on a frame, wherein the frame includes a receiving formation 26 through which the suspension element 14 is threaded. The receiving formation 26 acts as a guide to ensure that the suspension element 14 and the modular unit 10 are not separated during use. Where more than one suspension element 14 is used, a receiving formation 26 is provided for each suspension element 14.

A holding part 24 is provided between the receiving formation 26 of the modular unit 10 and the moving device 16, for holding the modular unit 10 in position relative to the suspension element 14. Preferably, the holding part 24 is a non-return device, configured to allow the suspension element 14 to pass through an aperture in the non-return device in a first direction, and to prevent the suspension element from passing through the aperture in a second, opposite, direction. Non-return devices of this type are known, and any suitable device may be used for this purpose.

The system also includes a means for cutting the suspension element 14, which may be disposed within the housing 18 of the moving element, or may form a part of the holding part 24. When the modular unit 10 is in its desired position relative to the building structure 12, and is secured in position by the holding part 24, the portion of the suspension element 14 that is unused is cut from the portion that is still under tension, thereby releasing the unused portion of the suspension element 14. This unused portion may then be collected by a user, and used to form a further suspension element for use with another system.

The system may include a means for measuring usage data representing the usage of the moving device 16. The means for measuring usage data may be a counter, which records counter data representing the number of times the moving device 16 has been deployed in a system, or may be a clock for recording clock data representing the time over which the motor(s) of the moving device 16 have been operated, or a combination of these features. This clock and/or counter data may be displayed to a user by way of an indication on the moving device 16, such as an audio or visual signal. Alternatively, an alarm may be displayed if one or either of the counter data and clock data exceeds a predetermined value. This alerts a user to the fact that the moving device may be due for servicing to ensure that all of its components are still operating correctly. This feature may save significant time by alerting users to potential device failures, so that replacements can be obtained, and also provides an important safety feature to avoid devices failing whilst in use.

The system also includes position detecting means for determining the position of the moving device 16 and/or the modular unit 10. The position detecting means may include one or more GPS devices for sending and receiving information regarding the location of the device 16/unit 10. Alternatively, or additionally, the position-detecting means may include one or more RFID transmitters and one or more RFID receivers. Positional data regarding the location of the moving device 16 and/or the modular unit 10 may be used to determine whether or not the modular unit 10 has reached its target position, close to the soffit of the building. The positional data may alternatively, or additionally, be used to determine whether the orientation of the modular unit 10 is approximately flat whilst it is being moved. Further details of how the positional data is collected, and used to achieve these purposes, is provided below.

The system includes a remote control unit (not shown in the drawings), and wireless communication means for sending and receiving data between the remote control unit and the moving device. The control unit may be operated by a user to control the moving device 16 by sending a signal to the moving device 16 that causes the motor(s) to drive the rotatable elements 22, thereby effecting movement of the moving device 16 relative to the suspension element 14. This movement, in turn, causes the modular unit 10 which is supported by the moving device, to move upwardly towards the building structure 12. A further signal may be sent to the moving device 16 to stop the motor, thereby halting movement of the device 16.

The remote control unit may also operate remotely the holding part 24 of the moving device 16, and the cutting means for cutting the suspension element 14.

The remote control unit receives data from the moving device 16 including positional data generated by the GPS device or from the RFID components. The remote unit may also receive usage data from the moving device 16, including counter and/or clock data. Control over the movement of the moving device may be conducted automatically, whereby signals are sent to control the operation of the motor(s) of the moving device 16 in response to positional data. For example, if data from the GPS device or from the RFID components exceeds a predetermined threshold, indicating that the moving device has reached a desired position, then the motor(s) is stopped. If the threshold is not exceeded, then the signal is sent to operate the motor or to maintain operation thereof.

The remote control unit may prevent operation of the moving device if usage data indicates that the device is due to be serviced. The remote control unit may be operable to display data, including usage data and positional data, to a user. The data may be displayed via a display. The user may interact with the control unit, so as to set thresholds for positional data and/or usage data, or to manually operate the moving device, by inputting commands via an interface. The interface may be provided via the display, in the form of a touch-sensitive display.

The moving device 16 may include means for measuring properties of the suspension element 14, such as its diameter and/or ferrous content. Only certain types of material are suitable for constructing an appropriate suspension element; a high tensile strength is required, and diameter and ferrous content are indicators of whether the material is suitable. If the measured properties of the suspension element indicate that it is not formed from a suitable material, then a warning signal may be displayed or sounded by the moving device. Additionally, or alternatively, an indication may be displayed to a user of the remote control unit to signal that the suspension element is not fit for purpose, and should be replaced.

The moving devices 16 are positioned so that a part of each device supports a portion of the modular unit. In this context, supporting a portion of a modular unit is intended to mean supporting at least a portion of the weight of the modular unit, and is not intended to mean that the moving device must physically engage a part of the modular unit. It is also intended that, if the modular unit is supported within or on a frame, the frame may be supported by the modular device.

Typically, the moving devices 16 are positioned at regular intervals around the periphery of the modular unit 10, or are positioned at the corners of the unit, so as to support the weight of the modular unit 10.

The suspension elements 14 should be secured to the soffit 12 at positions approximately above the positions of the moving devices 16, to enable each suspension element 14 to assume an approximately upright position between its respective moving device 16 and the soffit 12. The lower ends of the suspension elements 14 are threaded through receiving parts 26 of the modular unit 10, or of the frame in or on which the modular unit 10 is supported. The lower ends of the suspension elements are then fed through the holding part 24, and through a receiving portion disposed in the upper surface of the housing 18 of a respective moving device 16.

The engagement part 20 of the moving device 16 engages a portion of the suspension element 14, such that the one or more rotatable elements 22 of the part are engaged with the portion of the suspension element 14. A lower, unused portion of the suspension element 14 is then either coiled within the housing 18 (as shown in FIG. 7), or extends through an exit formation in the housing to hang below the moving device 16.

Once the system has been configured in this way, the remote control device is used to control the moving devices 16, to effect movement of each moving device relative to its respective suspension element so as to lift the modular unit to towards its desired position relative to the building structure. The remote control unit may control the moving devices automatically, according to predetermined thresholds stored by the control unit. If positional data received from a moving device 16 indicates that the device has reached its desired position, then the remote control unit prevents the moving device 16 from further movement relative to its suspension element 14.

In more detail, at least one RFID transmitter may be positioned on each moving device 16, and at least one RFID receiver disposed in proximity to the soffit 12, for determining whether the moving device 16 is within a predetermined distance of the soffit 12. It should be apparent that the RFID transmitter and/or receiver may be placed in other locations so as to obtain the same outcome (the receiver could be placed on the soffit 12 and the transmitter on the modular unit 10, for example). It should also be apparent that the positions of the RFID transmitters and receivers may be swapped, such that the RFID receivers are positioned on the moving devices 16 (or modular unit 10), and the transmitters placed in proximity to the soffit 12. Alternatively, one or more GPS devices could be positioned on the modular unit 10 or moving devices 16 in order to generate the required positional data. If the control unit determines that one of the moving devices 16 is higher than the other moving devices (or that one corner of the modular unit 10 is higher than the other corners), the control unit may prevent the moving device 16 from further movement until the other moving devices 16 have reached the same height as that device, or until the modular unit 10 is level. This enables the remote control unit to perform “self-levelling” of the modular unit 10, to ensure that it is lifted evenly so as to maintain an even distribution of weight between the suspension elements 14.

Positional data for performing self-levelling of the modular unit 10 may be gathered by positioning a number of RFID transmitters (preferably at least three) at a known spacing from one another and at positions within transmitting range of the unit 10. RFID receivers are located either on the modular unit 10 itself or on the moving devices 16 which are being used to lift the unit 10. Preferably, an RFID receiver is located at each corner of the modular unit 10. Each RFID transmitter is positioned on the unit 10 at the same height relative to a selected plane of the modular unit which must be horizontal when the unit is installed (e.g. a bottom or top surface of the unit 10). The proximity of each RFID transmitter to the RFID receivers can be determined by the control unit, at any time during lifting of the unit 10, and in so doing, the control unit can determine the position of each RFID receiver in three dimensions, and therefore the position of each corner of the modular unit 10. This data may be used by the control unit to control the moving devices 16 so as to control upward/downward movement of the moving devices 16 until the unit 10 is horizontal.

It should be understood that the positioning of the RFID transmitters and the RFID receivers could be reversed, such that the RFID transmitters are located on the modular unit 10 or moving devices 16, and the RFID receivers located in on the building where the unit 10 is being installed. Alternatively, positional data relating to each moving device 16 and thus “self-levelling” of the unit 10 could be achieved by using GPS devices either located in various positions on the unit 10 (e.g. at or near the corners thereof) or on the moving devices 16.

When each moving device 16 has reached its desired position, a signal may be sent from the remote control unit to operate the respective holding part 24 corresponding to the appropriate suspension element 14. Once activated, the holding part 24 holds the modular unit 10 to the suspension element 14, so that the modular unit 10 is supported by the suspension element 14.

A signal may then be sent by the remote control unit to the cutting means so as to sever the unused portion of the suspension element 14 disposed below the holding part 24. If or when all moving devices 16 have reached their desired positions and the holding parts 24 have all been activated to hold the modular unit 10 in position, the remote control unit may send signals to cause the unused portions of the suspension elements 14 to be cut simultaneously. The moving devices 16 may then be removed from the suspension elements 14.

Alternative embodiments of the engagement part 20 of the moving device 16 are shown in FIGS. 4 to 7. FIG. 4 shows a configuration of an engaging part 20a that includes three rotatable elements 22a, 22b. One rotatable element 22a, having a relatively large diameter, is disposed next to two rotatable elements 22b having a smaller diameter, wherein the two smaller rotatable elements 22b are disposed one above the other. The suspension element is fed between the large rotatable element 22a and two smaller rotatable elements 22b, and is gripped between the rotatable elements 22a, 22b. The elements 22a, 22b are caused to rotate so as to pull the element 14 therepast.

FIG. 5 shows a configuration of the engaging part 20b in which the suspension element 14 is entrained around the peripheral surface of a single rotatable element 22. The suspension element 14 is wrapped around the rotatable element 22 at least once, so as to achieve a large area of frictional contact therebetween to assist in lifting.

FIG. 6 shows a configuration of the engaging part 20c in which the suspension element 14 is engaged between three rotatable elements 22c having a “lobed” cross-section (i.e. a generally triangular shape having rounded “points” and slightly concave edges). This lobed configuration, which is similar in function to the embodiment of FIG. 4, ensures that a greater portion of the suspension element 14 is engaged by the rotatable elements 22c, which provides increased grip between the moving device 16 and the suspension element 14.

FIG. 7 shows a configuration of the engaging part 20d in which the suspension element 14 is entrained around the peripheral surface of a single rotatable element, so that, in use, it coils around the rotatable element. The unused portion of the suspension element 14 is therefore retained within the housing 18.

An alternative configuration of a suspension element 14c is shown in FIG. 8. The suspension element 14c may comprise a first part which is a rod 28a, and a second part which is a wire 28b, wherein the rod 28a is a threaded rod which is secured to the second structure 12. The rod 28a and wire 28b are connected to one another by way of a threaded adaptor 30. Using a rod in this way for connection to building structure provides improved fire-resistant properties, as the rod is likely to take longer to deform and lose tensile strength under high temperatures than a wire.

FIG. 8 illustrates the steps involved in detaching the wire 28b from the rod 28a, once the module has been moved into position (part 26 is a part of the module). First, the moving device 16 moves upwards so that the threaded adaptor 30 engages with the receiving formation 32 in the upper surface of the housing of the moving device. Once the moving device is in this position, it has moved as far as it can, and must now be secured by way of a split nut 34, located by a user within the holding part 24a, as shown in the third part of FIG. 8. The split nut 34 comprises two threaded parts that lock together so as to engage the thread of the threaded rod 28a, to secure the holding part 24a to the rod 28a. Once the split nut 34 is secured in position, the threaded adaptor 30 may be unthreaded from the rod 28a, thus disconnecting the wire 28b from the rod 28a, and removing it from the suspension element.

FIG. 9 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention, in which the suspension element 14′ is a ‘chain’ formed of a plurality of linkages which are rotatably connected to each other. An upper end of the chain 14′ is secured to the soffit so that it extends downwardly therefrom. The engagement part 20′ comprises two cogged wheels 22′ (a single wheel or more than two wheels could be used), each having a plurality of peripheral teeth for engaging the chain 14′. Each cog 22′ is supported on, and rotatable relative to, a respective support part located within the housing 18′, with the support part being driveable by a motor (not shown). The chain 14′ is received between the wheels 14′ and is moved therebetween when the wheels 14′ are caused to rotate.

This embodiment of the invention functions in the same way as the embodiments described above in all other respects. It is envisaged that the cogged wheels 22′ and respective support parts can be arranged in any of the configurations described hereinabove, wherein the one or more cogged wheels 22′ rotate about their support parts, causing relative movement between the support parts and the chain 14′.

The following clauses set out various embodiments and features of the systems and methods described above.

1. A system for positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the system including a suspension element securable to the second structure, a holding part for holding the first structure relative to the suspension element, and a moving device having a portion for supporting the first structure and a part for engaging the suspension element, wherein the part for engaging the suspension element is configured for effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element.
2. A system according to clause 1, wherein the moving device includes a receiving formation for receiving the suspension element.
3. A system according to clause 1 or clause 2, wherein the moving device includes an engagement formation having a rotatable element for rotation about an axis, the rotatable element being supported on a support part, and wherein rotation of the rotatable element effects movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element.
4. A system according to clause 3, wherein the engagement formation is configured for engaging a portion of the suspension element with a peripheral surface of the rotatable element.
5. A system according to clause 4, wherein the suspension element includes a plurality of linkages which are rotatably connected to one another, and the peripheral surface of the rotatable element includes formations for engaging the linkages in the suspension element.
6. A system according to any one of clauses 3 to 5, wherein the engagement formation includes a plurality of rotatable elements and a plurality of support parts, wherein each rotatable element is supported on a respective support part.
7. A system according to any one of the preceding clauses, further including a means for cutting the suspension element.
8. A system according to any one of the preceding clauses, further including a means for measuring usage data representing the usage of the moving device, wherein usage data represents at least one of: the number of times the moving device has been operated, and the duration of time over which the moving device has been operated.
9. A system according to any one of the preceding clauses, further including position detecting means for determining the position of the moving device.
10. A system according to any one of the preceding clauses, further including a remote control unit and wireless communication means for sending and receiving data between the remote control unit and the moving device, wherein the control unit is operable to control the operation of the moving device in response to data received from the moving device.
11. A system according to any one of the preceding clauses, including a plurality of suspension elements, each being securable to the second structure, and a plurality of moving devices each having a portion for supporting a respective portion of the first structure and a part for engaging a respective suspension element.
12. A method of positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the method including the steps of:

• • securing a suspension element to the second structure,
  • positioning a moving device such that a portion thereof supports the first structure and such that a part thereof engages the suspension element,
  • effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element so as to cause the first structure to move relative to the second structure, and
  • holding the first structure relative to the suspension element, thereby holding the first structure relative to the second structure.
    13. A method according to clause 12, further including the step of cutting the suspension element so as to sever an unused portion of the suspension element disposed below the holding part once the first structure has been secured relative to the suspension element.
    14. A method according to clause 12 or clause 13, further including the step of removing the moving device from the suspension element once the first structure is held relative to the suspension element.
    15. A method according to any one of clauses 12 to 14, further including the step of receiving at a control unit data transmitted from position detecting means, and controlling the moving device in response to the data received by transmitting a signal to the moving device from the control unit, wherein the control unit controls the moving device by determining whether one or more of the data has exceeded a predetermined limit and determining the signal to transmit accordingly.
    16. A method according to clause 15, wherein the predetermined limit defines a distance between the second structure and the moving device or the first structure.
    17. A method according to clause 16, wherein the distance defined by the predetermined limit indicates a target position of the first structure or moving device relative to the second structure.
    18. A method according to clause 17, wherein the data received at the control unit from the position detecting means is used to calculate the position of the moving device or first structure relative to the second structure.
    19. A method according to any one of clauses 15 to 18, wherein the position detecting means includes a RFID transmitter and RFID receiver, wherein one of the RFID transmitter and RFID receiver is positioned on the moving device or on the first structure, and the other one of the RFID transmitter and RFID receiver is positioned on the second structure or at a known position relative to the second structure.
    20. A method according to any one of clauses 15 to 19, wherein the position detecting means includes a GPS unit positioned on the moving device or on the first structure.
    21. A method according to any one of clauses 12 to 20, wherein the method includes:
  • securing a plurality of suspension elements to the second structure,
  • positioning a separate moving device relative to each suspension element such that a portion of each moving device supports the first structure,
  • effecting movement of each moving device relative to its respective suspension element so as to cause the first structure to move relative to the second structure.
    22. A method according to clause 21 where dependent on clause 15, wherein the step of controlling each moving device includes determining the position of each moving device relative to at least one other moving device and transmitting a signal to that moving device accordingly.
    23. A method according to clause 21 or clause 22, wherein each movement device is controlled until the first structure is supported in an approximately level orientation.
    24. A method according to clause 23, further including the step of positioning either a RFID transmitter or RFID receiver on the first structure adjacent to each moving device or on each moving device, and positioning the other of a RFID transmitter and RFID receiver in a known position, and using the signal (or signals) received by the RFID receiver (or receivers, respectively) to determine relative positions of each moving device.
    25. A method according to clause 23, further including the step of positioning a GPS unit on each moving device or on the first structure adjacent to each moving device, wherein positional information determined by the GPS units is used to determine the relative positions of the moving devices.
    26. A system for positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the system including a suspension element securable to the second structure, and a moving device having a portion for supporting the first structure and a part for engaging the suspension element, wherein the part for engaging the suspension element is configured for effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element.
    27. A method of positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the method including the steps of:
  • securing a suspension element to the second structure,
  • positioning a moving device such that a portion thereof supports the first structure and such that a part thereof engages the suspension element, and
  • effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element so as to cause the first structure to move relative to the second structure.

When used in this specification and claims, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

Claims

1. A system for positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the system including a suspension element securable to the second structure, a holding part for holding the first structure relative to the suspension element, and a moving device having a portion for supporting the first structure and a part for engaging the suspension element, wherein the part for engaging the suspension element is configured for effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element.

2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the moving device includes a receiving formation for receiving the suspension element.

3. A system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the moving device includes an engagement formation having a rotatable element for rotation about an axis, the rotatable element being supported on a support part, and wherein rotation of the rotatable element effects movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element.

4. A system according to claim 3, wherein the engagement formation is configured for engaging a portion of the suspension element with a peripheral surface of the rotatable element.

5. A system according to claim 4, wherein the suspension element includes a plurality of linkages which are rotatably connected to one another, and the peripheral surface of the rotatable element includes formations for engaging the linkages in the suspension element.

6. A system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the engagement formation includes a plurality of rotatable elements and a plurality of support parts, wherein each rotatable element is supported on a respective support part.

7. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, further including a means for cutting the suspension element.

8. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, further including a means for measuring usage data representing the usage of the moving device, wherein usage data represents at least one of: the number of times the moving device has been operated, and the duration of time over which the moving device has been operated.

9. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, further including position detecting means for determining the position of the moving device.

10. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, further including a remote control unit and wireless communication means for sending and receiving data between the remote control unit and the moving device, wherein the control unit is operable to control the operation of the moving device in response to data received from the moving device.

11. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, including a plurality of suspension elements, each being securable to the second structure, and a plurality of moving devices each having a portion for supporting a respective portion of the first structure and a part for engaging a respective suspension element.

12. A method of positioning a first structure relative to a second structure, the method including the steps of:

securing a suspension element to the second structure,

positioning a moving device such that a portion thereof supports the first structure and such that a part thereof engages the suspension element,

effecting movement of the moving device relative to the suspension element so as to cause the first structure to move relative to the second structure, and

holding the first structure relative to the suspension element, thereby holding the first structure relative to the second structure.

13. A method according to claim 12, further including the step of cutting the suspension element so as to sever an unused portion of the suspension element disposed below the holding part once the first structure has been secured relative to the suspension element.

14. A method according to claim 12 or claim 13, further including the step of removing the moving device from the suspension element once the first structure is held relative to the suspension element.

15. A method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, further including the step of receiving at a control unit data transmitted from position detecting means, and controlling the moving device in response to the data received by transmitting a signal to the moving device from the control unit, wherein the control unit controls the moving device by determining whether one or more of the data has exceeded a predetermined limit and determining the signal to transmit accordingly.

16. A method according to claim 15, wherein the predetermined limit defines a distance between the second structure and the moving device or the first structure.

17. A method according to claim 16, wherein the distance defined by the predetermined limit indicates a target position of the first structure or moving device relative to the second structure.

18. A method according to claim 17, wherein the data received at the control unit from the position detecting means is used to calculate the position of the moving device or first structure relative to the second structure.

19. A method according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the position detecting means includes a RFID transmitter and RFID receiver, wherein one of the RFID transmitter and RFID receiver is positioned on the moving device or on the first structure, and the other one of the RFID transmitter and RFID receiver is positioned on the second structure or at a known position relative to the second structure.

20. A method according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the position detecting means includes a GPS unit positioned on the moving device or on the first structure.

21. A method according to any one of claims 12 to 20, wherein the method includes:

securing a plurality of suspension elements to the second structure,

positioning a separate moving device relative to each suspension element such that a portion of each moving device supports the first structure,

effecting movement of each moving device relative to its respective suspension element so as to cause the first structure to move relative to the second structure.

22. A method according to claim 21 where dependent on claim 15, wherein the step of controlling each moving device includes determining the position of each moving device relative to at least one other moving device and transmitting a signal to that moving device accordingly.

23. A method according to claim 21 or claim 22, wherein each movement device is controlled until the first structure is supported in an approximately level orientation.

24. A method according to claim 23, further including the step of positioning either a RFID transmitter or RFID receiver on the first structure adjacent to each moving device or on each moving device, and positioning the other of a RFID transmitter and RFID receiver in a known position, and using the signal (or signals) received by the RFID receiver (or receivers, respectively) to determine relative positions of each moving device.

25. A method according to claim 23, further including the step of positioning a GPS unit on each moving device or on the first structure adjacent to each moving device, wherein positional information determined by the GPS units is used to determine the relative positions of the moving devices.

26. A system substantially as described herein and/or with reference to the accompanying drawings.

27. A method substantially as described herein and/or with reference to the accompanying drawings.

28. Any novel feature or novel combination of features described herein and/or in the accompanying drawings.