A PRE-FORMED INSERT BODY

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an insert for altering the shape or size of an existing aperture through a panel, more particularly, though not solely, to a pre-form to be used as an insert into an existing aperture through a building panel.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

Various solutions have been proposed for reducing the size of an aperture through a panel, such as a ceiling or wall panel. In particular, problems exist where for example an existing aperture of a certain size has been made to accommodate, say a lighting fixture or a conduit to pass through the panel, but then that fixture or conduit is to be replaced with a smaller size which no longer needs the existing aperture size.

Indeed, where the aperture size for the replacement fixture or conduit or any other such device extending through an aperture is smaller than the existing aperture, there becomes a problem as to how to adequately reduce the aperture whilst also ameliorating the gap between the existing aperture side wall and the size of the device to extending through the panel.

Typically an existing aperture may be in-filled by using a piece or pieces of the same (or different) panel material. However, the jointed region between such in-fill materials and the panel itself may be weak or may weaken of fail over time. For example, where there is an existing circular aperture through a ceiling panel and that existing aperture is to be reduced in size, an annular ring of material may be cut to be inserted into the existing aperture to provide the new aperture size. The joint between the outer surface of the annular ring and the panel may be connected to each other using joint tapes and layers of concealing material (e.g. plaster). However such a solution still presents problems as the joint region may fail or weaken, leading to problems of cracked concealing material (plaster) or other finishing materials (e.g. paints).

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide for altering the shape or size of an existing aperture through a panel and/or which will go at least some way towards addressing the foregoing problems or which will at least provide the public with a useful choice.

In this specification where reference has been made to patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources of information, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically stated otherwise, reference to such external documents is not to be construed as an admission that such documents, or such sources of information, in any jurisdiction, are prior art, or form part of the common general knowledge in the art.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect there is provided an insert for receivable engagement with a body, said insert comprising :

a front face, the front face having at least one reference rim,

the at least one reference rim extending as a projection of the front face, said reference rim providing for a reference surface to be referenced relative to a first face of a panel, the reference rim defining at least an edge of a recessed region,

a side wall extending between the front face and a rear face, the side wall comprising at least one engagement feature for engagement with a corresponding feature of a said body.

One or more of: the reference rim, an inwardly extending ledge, or the side wall of the insert may define inwardly an aperture through or of the front face of said insert.

At least one engagement feature of said insert comprises one or more of:

a screw thread,

one or more lugs or projections for reciprocal engagement with a body, - one or more male or female portions receivable by reciprocally shaped female or male portions of a said body,

a click-tight, push-fit or snap-fit type system for engagement with the body to which said insert is receivable,

a frictional fit, or a tapered fit between the insert and the body to which said insert is receivable.

Said at least one engagement feature may be adjustably located relative to a said body to which the insert is to be engaged

Said at least one engagement feature may allow for height adjustability of the insert relative to a said body.

The insert may be height adjustable relative to a said body to which the insert is engagable by rotation of the insert relative to said body. Said at least one engagement feature of the insert may comprise an external edge region comprising at least two cut-outs, each cut-out sized to be equal or longer in length and width than a corresponding engagement feature (optionally a lug) of a said body.

Said at least one engagement feature may be a screw thread, located on said side wall of the insert for threaded engagement with an inner wall of a said body.

Said screw thread of the insert may be located on one or more of: an internal surface or internally facing surface of said side wall of the insert and/or an external or outer surface of said side wall of the insert.

Said side wall of the insert comprising said screw thread may be about 1mm to about 20mm in height.

Said side wall of the insert comprising said screw thread may be about 5mm to about 10mm in height.

Said screw thread of the insert may be formed across substantially the entire height of said side wall of the insert.

The reference rim may extend from one or more of:

- the side wall of the insert,

an inwardly extending ledge of the insert,

a platform extending from an inner side wall of the insert.

The reference rim may extend inward.

Said recessed region may be defined at least in part by one or more of:

the panel,

a support surface of a body to which said insert in engageable, an outer surface of the side wall of the insert,

a side wall of an aperture through the panel to be resized,

an outward or outer surface of said reference rim.

The recessed region may receivable of a material, such as a settable material.

The material may be one or more of:

a settable material

a filler material

a concealing material

an adhesive material a decorating material.

Said insert may comprise a plurality of reference rims, and optionally wherein one or more of the reference rims is/are detachable from the insert.

One or more reference rims may define at least an edge of a recessed region associated with said one of more reference rims, and wherein a said associated recessed region may be defined at least in part by a gap between an outward or an outer surface of a more inner reference rim, and an inward or an inner surface of a more outward reference rim, optionally the more outward reference rim may be positioned more outwardly of said inner reference rim.

One or more of a plurality of reference rims may be connected to each other or the insert via one or more region(s) of weakness or frangible connection(s).

Said insert may comprise a plurality of reference rims, said reference rims being arranged substantially concentrically on the front face of the insert.

One or more inner reference rim(s) of said concentric arrangement may be detachable from the insert to define different aperture sizes to be formed.

A or each said reference rim may comprise at least one ledge extending inwardly therefrom.

A or each said ledge may extend from a reference rim forms or defines at least part of a said recessed region or a said associated recessed region.

At least a first reference rim and its associated recessed region may be disconnectable from a second reference rim and its associated recessed region via one or more frangible connection(s) located between the first reference rim and the ledge extending inwardly from the second reference rim.

A or each reference rim and an associated ledge may be detachable or disconnectable from the insert, or detachable or disconnectable from an adjacent reference rim and/or the at least one ledge of an adjacent reference rim.

Said at least one ledge may be recessed from said reference rim of the insert.

The at least one ledge extends from one or both of: an inner surface of said reference rim of the insert, and/or the side wall of the insert.

Said ledge may be substantially continuous along the entire inner surface of the reference rim of the insert.

Said ledge may extend along a plane substantially perpendicular to said inner surface of said reference rim. Said inner side wall of the insert may comprise two or more inwardly extending ledges, spaced around the inner surface of the reference rim of the insert.

When said insert is positioned, in use, on said panel, or in engagement with a said body, said ledge(s) of the reference rim of the insert may retain a fitting or fixture inserted or located within the aperture defined by the insert.

Said ledge of the inner side wall may be continuous along the entire inner side wall of the insert.

The ledge may extend along a plane substantially perpendicular to said inner side wall of insert.

Said reference rim of the insert may comprises two or more inwardly extending ledges, spaced along the height of the inner side wall.

When said insert is positioned in use on said panel, or in engagement with a said body, said ledge(s) of the inner side wall of the insert may retain a fitting or fixture inserted or located within the aperture defined by the insert.

Said ledge may provide a mount or support surface for receiving a fitting or fixture thereon.

The ledge may be configured such that the fitting or fixture is retained so as to be flush with the reference rim and/or the first surface of the panel when installed.

The ledge may be configured such that the fitting or fixture is retained in a proud or recessed configuration relative to the reference rim and/or the first surface of the panel when installed.

Said at least one ledge, or the side wall of the insert may comprises a ramped surface, ramped in a direction from the front face of the insert to the rear face of the insert.

The ramped surface may extend from or to a most inward point of said at least one ledge (optionally from or to a rear face of said at least one ledge).

The ramped surface may extend from or to an inner surface of the side wall of the insert.

The ramped surface may extend as a protrusion from the at least one ledge, or the side wall of the insert

The ramped surface may comprise one or a plurality of ramped regions, each region having a different gradient.

There may be two ramped regions, a first ramped region being located more towards the first face than a second ramped region. The ramped surface may provide for a decreasing or progressively reducing inner diameter of an aperture through or of the front face of the insert, decreasing or reducing in a direction extending from the rear face toward the front face of said insert.

The first ramped region may have a first tapering decrease of the inner diameter, or the diameter of the aperture to be formed of the insert, and the second ramped region provides for a second tapering decrease of the inner diameter, or the diameter of the aperture to be formed of the insert.

The first tapering decrease may provide for a smaller the inner diameter, or the diameter of the aperture to be formed of the insert, than that provided for by the second tapering decrease.

A gradient (defined with respect to the front face) of the first ramped region may be greater than a gradient (defined with respect to the front face) of the second ramped region.

A gradient (defined with respect to the front face) of the second ramped region may be greater than a gradient (defined with respect to the front face) of the first ramped region.

The ramped surface (or a portion of the ramped surface) may have an angle of about 15 to about 4 degrees, with respect to an axis extending perpendicular to the front and/or the rear face.

The ramped surface (or a portion of the ramped surface) may have an angle of about 6 or about 10 degrees, with respect to an axis extending perpendicular to the front and/or the rear face.

The outer surface of the side wall may be ramped in a direction from the front face to the rear face.

The insert may comprise at least one platform extending substantially inwardly from an inner side wall of the insert, and wherein said at least one reference rim extends from said platform of the insert.

An aperture to be formed through or on the front face of the insert and/or the reference rim is substantially circular, or oval or elliptical, rectangular, square, parallelogram or quadrilateral.

The insert may comprise a locating feature, the locating feature providing a locating surface or surfaces to locate at least part of a fitting or fixture to be inserted or located within an aperture defined by the insert through or of the front face.

The locating feature may extend from one or more of:

- an inner side wall of the insert, the reference rim of the insert,

a or said ledge extending from the side wall of the insert.

The locating feature may be one or more of: a locating rim, or a plurality of protrusions.

The plurality of protrusions may provide for a locating surface to locate at least part of a fitting or fixture.

The protrusions may extend inwardly and/or towards the front face of the insert.

The locating feature may comprise an inwardly concentric rim or set of protrusions.

The locating rim may provide for a rim surface to locate at least part of a fitting or fixture.

The locating surface may a projection extending to a projected height being the same or less that a height of said reference surface.

The locating features, or a said ledge, or the side wall may comprise one or more positioning feature(s), to position or orient at least a part of a fitting or fixture within the insert.

The one or more positioning feature(s) may comprise at least one tab extending substantially radially inward, optionally there are four substantially equally spaced tabs.

The at least one tab may extend in one of:

a plane substantially parallel to the front face and/or the rear face

a plane extending substantially perpendicular to the front face and/or the rear face.

The one or more positioning feature(s) may comprise 2 or more tabs extending substantially radially inward.

The one or more positioning feature(s) may comprise between 3 and 6 tabs extending substantially radially inward.

The one or more positioning feature(s) may comprise 3 tabs extending substantially radially inward, optionally 4 tabs extending substantially radially inward.

The tabs may be arranged equidistantly around the perimeter of the locating rim, or the ledge, or the side wall.

Said tabs may be biased radially inward for engagement with a fitting or fixture.

Said tabs may be spring loaded

Said positioning feature may be a thread, the thread configured to engage with a corresponding thread located on a fitting or fixture. The ledge may be recessed from a first face of the panel, when the assembly is installed.

The ledge may extend from the side wall of the insert at around 50% of the total height of the inner side wall.

The or a ledge may comprise at least one supplemental light source.

The supplementary light source may be a LED located on or extending through said ledge, a or said locating rim or said inner surface of the reference rim or side wall of the insert.

The insert may comprise at least one optically transparent, transmissive or display portion extending from the locating feature or an inner side wall or reference rim of the insert, optionally between the locating feature and the inner side wall or reference rim.

The at least one optically transparent, transmissive or display portion may provide for a graphical illumination or is engraved to allow for a selective transmission or an illumination or a graphic, shape or symbol.

An aperture to be formed and/or reference rim has a diameter greater than a diameter of the inner side wall of the insert or a said body which receives the insert.

A diameter or cross-sectional area of an aperture to be formed through or of the front face and/or by said reference rim, is of a greater diameter or cross-sectional area than a diameter or cross-sectional area of the inner side wall of the insert or an inner side wall of a said body which with the said insert is engageable.

The insert may comprise at least one partition member, the at least one partition member may separate an aperture to be formed through or of the front face into at least two sub-apertures.

Each sub-aperture may be configured to receive a fitting or fixture, or a part thereof.

There may be between 3 and 5 sub-apertures, optionally there are 3 sub-apertures, optionally there are 2 sub-apertures.

The at least one partition member may form at least part of at least one inwardly extending ledge recessed from said at least one reference rim of an inner side wall of the insert.

The at least two sub-apertures may be arranged in one of:

- a substantially straight line or linear relationship

- a substantially triangular relationship

The insert may comprise a partition member, separating the aperture to be formed into two quadrilateral sub-apertures, and optionally two rectangle or two square sub- apertures. The insert may comprises an inwardly extending ledge, formed at least in part by said partition member.

The insert may comprise a single aperture to be formed, the aperture to be formed being a quadrilateral (optionally a square or a rectangle), and the insert may comprise an inwardly extending ledge.

The insert may comprise a plurality of reference rims, each reference rim defining independently or separately an aperture to be formed through or of the front face.

The insert may further comprise a plurality of apertures to be formed, each aperture to be formed defined by an associated inner side walls.

The insert may comprise between 2 and 5 apertures to be formed, optionally, the insert comprises 3 apertures to be formed optionally, the insert comprises 2 apertures to be formed.

The at least one engagement feature of the insert may be configured to engage with a second engagement feature of an intermediate adapter, the intermediate adapter comprising a first engagement feature configured to engage with an engagement feature of a body to which said insert is to be engaged .

The front face of the insert may comprise a plug or substantially solid portion, optionally the plug or substantially solid portion comprises one or more perforations or cut outs.

The at least one engagement feature of the insert may be configured to engage with a second engagement feature of an intermediate adapter, the intermediate adapter comprising a first engagement feature configured to engage the body.

The first engagement feature of the intermediate adapter may be located on an outer surface of a side wall of the intermediate adapter, and the second engagement feature is located on an inner surface of a side wall of the intermediate adapter.

The apertures to be formed may be arranged in on of:

a substantially straight line or linear relationship

a substantially triangular relationship

A perimeter of the recessed region (optionally formed at least in part by a platform) of the insert may substantially circular or oval, and

wherein the insert comprises three apertures to be formed, each aperture to be formed having an associated inner side wall, the three apertures to be formed being substantially circular, and arranged in a substantially triangular arrangement, and wherein the inner side wall of each of the apertures to be formed terminates in an associated rim or rim surface, each rim surface being adjacent to or coincident with the associated rim surfaces of the other two apertures to be formed.

The perimeter of the recessed region of the insert may be substantially quadrilateral, (optionally rectangular or square), and

wherein the insert comprises 3 apertures to be formed, each aperture to be formed having an associated inner side wall, the 3 apertures to be formed being substantially circular and arranged in a substantially linear arrangement, and

wherein the inner side wall of each of the apertures to be formed terminates in an associated rim or rim surface, the 3 apertures to be formed being adjacent to or coincident with at least one other rim surface of the other two apertures to be formed.

Said existing aperture in said panel is circular, and

wherein a width dimension of said a said body is (or may be modified to be) equal to or less than a diameter of the existing circular aperture.

In a second aspect there is provided a body receivable of an insert, the body comprising : a support surface for supporting the body with respect to a panel,

wherein the body comprises an inner wall, the inner wall defining an aperture configured for receiving of an insert,

wherein the inner wall of the body comprises at least one engagement feature(s) for engageably receiving a said insert.

An insert may be detachably engageable to the inner wall of the body by said

engagement feature(s).

Said at least one engagement feature of said body may comprise one or more of:

a screw thread,

- one or more lugs or projections for reciprocal engagement with the insert, one or more male or female portions receivable by reciprocally shaped female or male portions of the insert,

a click-tight, push-fit or snap-fit type system for engagement with the insert receivable by the body,

- a frictional fit, or a tapered fit between the body and the insert receivable by the body.

Said at least one engagement feature may be adjustably located relative to the insert to which the body is to be engaged. Said at least one engagement feature may allow for height adjustability of an insert relative to the body.

The insert may be height adjustable by rotation of the insert relative to the body.

Said engagement feature may be a screw thread, located on said inner wall of the body for threaded engagement with a said insert.

Said screw thread of the body may located on one or more of: an external surface, or an externally facing surface of the inner wall of the body and/or an internal surface, or an internally facing surface of the inner wall of the body.

Said engagement feature of the inner wall of the body may comprises at least two inwardly extending lugs for supporting the insert when assembled, each lug contacting at least an external edge region of a front face of an insert when assembled.

Each lug may comprise an end-stop on one side to require uni-directional insertion of an insert into engagement with said inner wall of the body.

Said uni-directional insertion may be in one of a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction. One or more pairs of said lugs may be arranged substantially diametrically opposite each other on an inner surface of said inner wall of the body.

Said body may comprise more than two lugs, and wherein said lugs are spaced equidistant from each other on said inner wall of the body.

The inner wall of the body may further comprise one or more inwardly extending guide flange(s), positioned adjacent one or more said lug(s).

Said guide flange(s) may be positioned more rearward than said lug(s) on said inner wall of the body, the guide flange and lug forming a guide path for guiding insertion of said insert onto the body.

At least part of the support surface may be configured to engage or to be provided to rest or contact on one or more of: the second face (optionally a rear face) of the panel or the first face (optionally a front face) of the panel.

A panel to which said body is to be provided may comprise a recessed region on the first face of the panel, to receive the support surface of the body, optionally the recessed region on the first face of the panel, is of a depth the same or greater than the thickness of the support surface of the body.

At least part of the support surface may be configured to receive a material, such as a settable material.

At least part of the support surface may be configured to receive a material, such as a settable material. At least part of the support surface may be configured to receive a material.

The material may be one or more of:

- a settable material,

- a filler material,

- a concealing material,

- an adhesive material,

- a decorating material.

The at least one support surface is substantially quadrilateral, (optionally rectangular or a square), a parallelogram, a truncated circle or oval, or substantially circular.

The at least one engagement feature of the body may be configured to engage with a first engagement feature of an intermediate adapter, the intermediate adapter comprising a second engagement feature configured to engage with an engagement feature of a said insert.

The first engagement feature of the intermediate adapter may be located on an outer surface of a side wall of the intermediate adapter, and the second engagement feature is located on an inner surface of a side wall of the intermediate adapter.

The support surface may comprise one or more flanged portions or lateral extensions extending outwardly (optionally, radially or laterally outwardly) from the body, optionally there are two substantially opposing flanged portions.

The support surface may comprise at least one (optionally two) substantially opposing cut-off side(s).

The support surface may be a flange extending around substantially the entire perimeter of the aperture for receiving of an insert.

The support surface may comprises a plurality of cut-outs.

A said insert may be defined the first aspect of the invention.

In a third aspect there is provided an assembly for defining an aperture to be formed in a panel, wherein the aperture to be formed is of a varied geometry (such as a reduced size or altered shape) relative to an existing aperture through a panel, the panel having a thickness defined between a first face and a second face, and the panel having an existing aperture side wall as defined by the existing aperture and extending between the first and second faces of the panel,

the assembly comprising a body and an insert,

the body of the second aspect, and the insert of the first aspect.

The assembly may further comprise an intermediate adapter, to facilitate engagement between the body and the insert, the intermediate adapter may comprise:

at least a first engagement feature for engagement with the body, and

at least a second engagement feature for engagement with the insert.

The first engagement feature of the intermediate adapter may be located on an outer wall is located on an outer surface of a side wall of the intermediate adapter, and the second engagement feature is located on an inner surface of a side wall of the

intermediate adapter.

In a fourth aspect there is provided a body defining an aperture to be formed in a panel, the panel having a thickness defined between a first face and a second face, the body comprising :

a support surface for supporting the body with respect to the panel,

a side wall extending between the front face and a rear face

the front face having at least one reference rim,

the at least one reference rim providing for a reference surface relative to the first face of the panel, the reference rim defining at least an edge of a recessed region.

In a fifth aspect there is provided a body defining an aperture to be formed in a panel, the panel having a thickness defined between a first face and a second face, the body comprising :

a front face, the front face having at least one reference rim,

the at least one reference rim extending as a projection of the front face, said reference rim providing for a reference surface to be referenced relative to a first face of a panel, the reference rim defining at least an edge of a recessed region,

a side wall extending between the front face and a rear face

a support surface for supporting the body with respect to a panel.

One or more of: the reference rim, an inwardly extending ledge, or the side wall of the body may define inwardly an aperture through or of the front face of said body.

The reference rim may extend from one or more of:

- the side wall of the body,

an inwardly extending ledge of the body,

a platform extending from an inner side wall of the body. The reference rim may extend inward.

Said recessed region may be defined at least in part by one or more of:

the panel,

a support surface of a body,

- an outer surface of the side wall of the body,

a side wall of an aperture through the panel to be resized,

an outward or outer surface of said reference rim.

The recessed region may receivable of a material, such as a settable material.

The material may be one or more of:

a settable material

a filler material

a concealing material

an adhesive material

a decorating material.

At least part of the support surface may be configured to engage or to be provided to rest or contact on one or more of: the second face (optionally a rear face) of the panel or the first face (optionally a front face) of the panel.

A panel to which said body is to be provided may comprise a recessed region on the first face of the panel, to receive the support surface of the body, optionally the recessed region on the first face of the panel, is of a depth the same or greater than the thickness of the support surface of the body.

At least part of the support surface may be configured to receive a material, such as a settable material.

At least part of the support surface may be configured to receive a material.

The material may be one or more of:

- a settable material,

- a filler material,

- a concealing material,

- an adhesive material,

- a decorating material. Said body may comprise a plurality of reference rims, and optionally wherein one or more of the reference rims is/are detachable from the body.

One or more reference rims may define at least an edge of a recessed region associated with said one of more reference rims, and wherein a said associated recessed region may be defined at least in part by a gap between an outward or an outer surface of a more inner reference rim, and an inward or an inner surface of a more outward reference rim, optionally the more outward reference rim may be positioned more outwardly of said inner reference rim.

One or more of a plurality of reference rims may be connected to each other or the body via one or more region(s) of weakness or frangible connection(s).

Said body may comprise a plurality of reference rims, said reference rims being arranged substantially concentrically on the front face of the body.

One or more inner reference rim(s) of said concentric arrangement may be detachable from the body to define different aperture sizes to be formed.

A or each said reference rim may comprise at least one ledge extending inwardly therefrom.

A or each said ledge may extend from a reference rim forms or defines at least part of a said recessed region or a said associated recessed region.

At least a first reference rim and its associated recessed region may be disconnectable from a second reference rim and its associated recessed region via one or more frangible connection(s) located between the first reference rim and the ledge extending inwardly from the second reference rim.

A or each reference rim and an associated ledge may be detachable or disconnectable from the body, or detachable or disconnectable from an adjacent reference rim and/or the at least one ledge of an adjacent reference rim.

Said at least one ledge may be recessed from said reference rim of the body.

The at least one ledge extends from one or both of: an inner surface of said reference rim of the body, and/or the side wall of the body.

Said ledge may be substantially continuous along the entire inner surface of the reference rim of the body.

Said ledge may extend along a plane substantially perpendicular to said inner surface of said reference rim.

Said inner side wall of the body may comprise two or more inwardly extending ledges, spaced around the inner surface of the reference rim of the body. When said body is positioned, in use, on said panel, or in engagement with a said body, said ledge(s) of the reference rim of the body may retain a fitting or fixture inserted or located within the aperture defined by the body.

Said ledge of the inner side wall may be continuous along the entire inner side wall of the body.

The ledge may extend along a plane substantially perpendicular to said inner side wall.

Said reference rim of the body may comprises two or more inwardly extending ledges, spaced along the height of the inner side wall.

When said body is positioned in use on said panel, or in engagement with a said body, said ledge(s) of the inner side wall of the body may retain a fitting or fixture inserted or located within the aperture defined by the body.

Said ledge may provide a mount or support surface for receiving a fitting or fixture thereon.

The ledge may be configured such that the fitting or fixture is retained so as to be flush with the reference rim and/or the first surface of the panel when installed.

The ledge may be configured such that the fitting or fixture is retained in a proud or recessed configuration relative to the reference rim and/or the first surface of the panel when installed.

Said at least one ledge, or the side wall of the body may comprises a ramped surface, ramped in a direction from the front face of the body to the rear face of the body.

The ramped surface may extend from or to a most inward point of said at least one ledge (optionally from or to a rear face of said at least one ledge).

The ramped surface may extend from or to an inner surface of the side wall of the body.

The ramped surface may extend as a protrusion from the at least one ledge, or the side wall of the body.

The ramped surface may comprise one or a plurality of ramped regions, each region having a different gradient.

There may be two ramped regions, a first ramped region being located more towards the first face than a second ramped region.

The ramped surface may provide for a decreasing or progressively reducing inner diameter of an aperture through or of the front face of the body, decreasing or reducing in a direction extending from the rear face toward the front face of said body.

The first ramped region may have a first tapering decrease of the inner diameter, or the diameter of the aperture to be formed of the body, and the second ramped region provides for a second tapering decrease of the inner diameter, or the diameter of the aperture to be formed of the body.

The first tapering decrease may provide for a smaller the inner diameter, or the diameter of the aperture to be formed of the body, than that provided for by the second tapering decrease.

A gradient (defined with respect to the front face) of the first ramped region may be greater than a gradient (defined with respect to the front face) of the second ramped region.

A gradient (defined with respect to the front face) of the second ramped region may be greater than a gradient (defined with respect to the front face) of the first ramped region.

The ramped surface (or a portion of the ramped surface) may have an angle of about 15 to about 4 degrees, with respect to an axis extending perpendicular to the front and/or the rear face.

The ramped surface (or a portion of the ramped surface) may have an angle of about 6 or about 10 degrees, with respect to an axis extending perpendicular to the front and/or the rear face.

The outer surface of the side wall may be ramped in a direction from the front face to the rear face.

The body may comprise at least one platform extending substantially inwardly from an inner side wall of the body, and wherein said at least one reference rim extends from said platform of the body.

An aperture to be formed through or on the front face of the body and/or the reference rim is substantially circular, or oval or elliptical, rectangular, square, parallelogram or quadrilateral.

The body may comprise a locating feature, the locating feature providing a locating surface or surfaces to locate at least part of a fitting or fixture to be inserted or located within an aperture defined by the body through or of the front face.

The locating feature may extend from one or more of:

- an inner side wall of the body,

the reference rim of the body,

a or said ledge extending from the side wall of the body.

The locating feature may be one or more of: a locating rim, or a plurality of protrusions. The plurality of protrusions may provide for a locating surface to locate at least part of a fitting or fixture.

The protrusions may extend inwardly and/or towards the front face of the body.

The locating feature may comprise an inwardly concentric rim or set of protrusions.

The locating rim may provide for a rim surface to locate at least part of a fitting or fixture.

The locating surface may a projection extending to a projected height being the same or less that a height of said reference surface.

The locating features, or a said ledge, or the side wall may comprise one or more positioning feature(s), to position or orient at least a part of a fitting or fixture within the body.

The one or more positioning feature(s) may comprise at least one tab extending substantially radially inward, optionally there are four substantially equally spaced tabs.

The at least one tab may extend in one of:

a plane substantially parallel to the front face and/or the rear face

a plane extending substantially perpendicular to the front face and/or the rear face.

The one or more positioning feature(s) may comprise 2 or more tabs extending substantially radially inward.

The one or more positioning feature(s) may comprise between 3 and 6 tabs extending substantially radially inward.

The one or more positioning feature(s) may comprise 3 tabs extending substantially radially inward, optionally 4 tabs extending substantially radially inward.

The tabs may be arranged equidistantly around the perimeter of the locating rim, or the ledge, or the side wall.

Said tabs may be biased radially inward for engagement with a fitting or fixture.

Said tabs may be spring loaded

Said positioning feature may be a thread, the thread configured to engage with a corresponding thread located on a fitting or fixture.

The ledge may be recessed from a first face of the panel, when the body is installed.

The ledge may extend from the side wall of the body at around 50% of the total height of the inner side wall.

The or a ledge may comprise at least one supplemental light source. The supplementary light source may be a LED located on or extending through said ledge, a or said locating rim or said inner surface of the reference rim or side wall of the body.

The body may comprise at least one optically transparent, transmissive or display portion extending from the locating feature or an inner side wall or reference rim of the body, optionally between the locating feature and the inner side wall or reference rim.

The at least one optically transparent, transmissive or display portion may provide for a graphical illumination or is engraved to allow for a selective transmission or an illumination or a graphic, shape or symbol.

An aperture to be formed and/or reference rim has a diameter greater than a diameter of the inner side wall of the body or a said body which receives the body.

A diameter or cross-sectional area of an aperture to be formed through or of the front face and/or by said reference rim, is of a greater diameter or cross-sectional area than a diameter or cross-sectional area of the inner side wall of the body or an inner side wall of a said body which with the said body is engageable.

The body may comprise at least one partition member, the at least one partition member may separate an aperture to be formed through or of the front face into at least two sub- apertures.

Each sub-aperture may be configured to receive a fitting or fixture, or a part thereof. There may be between 3 and 5 sub-apertures, optionally there are 3 sub-apertures, optionally there are 2 sub-apertures.

The at least one partition member may form at least part of at least one inwardly extending ledge recessed from said at least one reference rim of an inner side wall of the body.

The at least two sub-apertures may be arranged in one of:

- a substantially straight line or linear relationship

- a substantially triangular relationship

The body may comprise a partition member, separating the aperture to be formed into two quadrilateral sub-apertures, and optionally two rectangle or two square sub- apertures.

The body may comprises an inwardly extending ledge, formed at least in part by said partition member. The body may comprise a single aperture to be formed, the aperture to be formed being a quadrilateral (optionally a square or a rectangle), and the body may comprise an inwardly extending ledge.

The body may comprise a plurality of reference rims, each reference rim defining independently or separately an aperture to be formed through or of the front face.

The body may further comprise a plurality of apertures to be formed, each aperture to be formed defined by an associated inner side walls.

The body may comprise between 2 and 5 apertures to be formed, optionally, the body comprises 3 apertures to be formed optionally, the body may comprise 2 apertures to be formed.

The front face of the body may comprise a plug or substantially solid portion, optionally the plug or substantially solid portion comprises one or more perforations or cut outs.

The apertures to be formed may be arranged in on of:

a substantially straight line or linear relationship

a substantially triangular relationship

A perimeter of the recessed region (optionally formed at least in part by a platform) of the body may substantially circular or oval, and

wherein the body comprises three apertures to be formed, each aperture to be formed having an associated inner side wall, the three apertures to be formed being substantially circular, and arranged in a substantially triangular arrangement, and

wherein the inner side wall of each of the apertures to be formed terminates in an associated rim or rim surface, each rim surface being adjacent to or coincident with the associated rim surfaces of the other two apertures to be formed.

The perimeter of the recessed region of the body may be substantially quadrilateral, (optionally rectangular or square), and

wherein the body comprises 3 apertures to be formed, each aperture to be formed having an associated inner side wall, the 3 apertures to be formed being substantially circular and arranged in a substantially linear arrangement, and

wherein the inner side wall of each of the apertures to be formed terminates in an associated rim or rim surface, the 3 apertures to be formed being adjacent to or coincident with at least one other rim surface of the other two apertures to be formed.

Said existing aperture in said panel is circular, and

wherein a width dimension of said a said body is (or may be modified to be) equal to or less than a diameter of the existing circular aperture. The support surface may comprise one or more flanged portions or lateral extensions extending outwardly (optionally, radially or laterally outwardly) from the body, optionally there are two substantially opposing flanged portions.

The support surface may comprise at least one (optionally two) substantially opposing cut-off side(s).

The support surface may be a flange extending around substantially the entire perimeter of the aperture to be formed in the through or on the front fact of the body/

The support surface may comprises a plurality of cut-outs.

In another aspect, the present invention broadly consists in a body defining an aperture to be formed in a panel, the body comprising :

an inner surface,

an outer surface,

a front face, and

a rear face,

the aperture to be formed being of a varied geometry (such as a reduced size or altered shape) relative to an existing aperture through a panel,

wherein the inner surface provides for an inner side wall of the aperture to be formed, the panel having a thickness defined between a first face and a second face, and the panel having an existing aperture side wall as defined by the existing aperture and extending between the first and second faces of the panel,

the outer surface comprising an outer side wall of the, or at least a part of the, aperture to be formed and/or of the existing aperture to be varied in geometry, the outer side wall to be, at least in part, located substantially adjacent to the existing aperture side wall when the body is positioned in use on said panel,

the rear face comprising one or more projections, each projection extending from the rear face towards the front face of the body to terminate at a support surface, the distance between the support surface and the front face defining a spacing distance, wherein the at least one support surface is to be located upon a region or regions of the second face of the panel surrounding the existing aperture when the body is positioned in use on said panel,

wherein the inner surface terminates with at least one rim on the front face, the front face comprising one or more recessed regions and each rim having a rim surface, the rim surface being a surface projected from at least one of the one or more recessed regions so as to provide a reference surface, referenced relative to the first face of the panel.

The spacing distance may be substantially the thickness of the panel.

The spacing distance may be less than or greater than the thickness of said panel.

The spacing distance may substantially match the thickness of the panel through which the body is to extend.

The spacing distance may substantially match the thickness of the panel through which the body is to extend, such that when the at least one support surface is located upon a region or regions of the second face of the panel, said rim surface is substantially planar with said first face of the panel.

The support surface may be a discontinuous surface.

More than one support surface may contact the second face of the panel when said body is positioned in use on said panel.

The rear face may comprise at least one set of projections.

The at least one or a or each set of projections may comprise one of:

a) two projections,

b) three projections,

c) four projections,

d) more than four projections,

and wherein all the projections of the at least one set extend the same distance from the rear face to define the same spacing distance.

The rear face may comprise one of:

a) two sets of projections,

b) three sets of projections,

c) four sets of projections,

d) more than four sets of projections,

and wherein the spacing distance defined by the projection(s) of one set is different from the spacing distance defined by the projection(s) of another set.

The support surfaces of all the projections of one set may contact the second face of the panel when the body is positioned in use on said panel.

One or more of the projection(s) may be separately or jointly, disconnectable, removable, or detachable from the rear face. One or more projection(s) may comprise(s) region(s) of weakness that allows for disconnection or removal or detachment of said projection(s) from the body.

The one or more projection(s) may comprise(s) at least one frangible connection with the rear face.

The one or more projection(s) may be integrally formed with the body.

Disconnecting, removing or detaching the projection may leave an aperture in the rear face.

The one or more projection(s) may be cut or filed off from the body prior to positioning the body on said panel in use.

All the projections of the at least one set may be disconnected, removed, or detached from the rear face prior to positioning the body on said panel in use.

All projections except for the projections of one set may be disconnected, removed, or detached from the rear face prior to positioning the body on said panel in use.

All projections may be disconnectable, removable, or detachable from the rear face, and wherein if all projections are disconnected, removed or detached from the rear face, said rear face may define a support surface that contacts the second face of the panel when the body is positioned in use on said panel.

One or more projections may be provided as separate members from that of the body, said separate members being connectable or attachable or engageable with the rear face to define one or more support surfaces spaced from the rear face.

The projections of one set may be arranged serially about the rear face.

The projections of one set may be arranged in reflective symmetry on said rear face.

The projections of one set may be arranged in rotational symmetry on said rear face.

The projections of one set may be spaced equidistant from each other.

The projections of one set may be spaced equidistant from each other around the perimeter of the aperture to be formed.

The projections of one set may be spaced equi-angularly about a centre of the rear face.

The body may comprise more than one set of projections, and wherein one projection from a set may be located in substantially the same region of the rear face as one projection from the other set(s), to form a group of projections in said region.

The body may comprise more than one set of projections, and wherein one projection from each set may be located adjacent to one projection from the other set(s), to form a group of projections. The body may comprise two or more groups of projections, wherein said groups may be spaced equidistant from each other around the perimeter of the aperture to be formed.

The body may comprise two or more groups of projections, wherein said groups may be spaced equi-angularly about a centre of the rear face.

The difference in projection height between one set of projections and the set of projections next closest in height may be between or about 1mm to about 10mm.

The difference in projection height between one set of projections and the set of projections next closest in height may be between or about 2mm to about 5mm.

A first set of projections may comprise projections extending a distance of between or about 1mm to about 5mm from the rear face.

A second set of projections may comprise projections extending a distance of between or about 2mm to about 15mm from the rear face.

A third set of projections may comprise projections extending a distance of between or about 3mm to about 25mm from the rear face.

A fourth set of projections may comprise projections extending a distance of between or about 4mm to about 35mm from the rear face.

A first set of projections may comprise projections defining a spacing distance of between or about 3mm to about 35mm.

A second set of projections may comprise projections defining a spacing distance of between or about 2mm to about 25 mm.

A third set of projections may comprise projections defining a spacing distance of between or about 1mm to about 15 mm.

A fourth set of projections may comprise projections defining a spacing distance of between or about 0mm to about 5 mm.

The body may comprise a multi-part projection which defines multiple support surfaces, wherein at least a portion of said projection forming a support surface is disconnectable, removable, or detachable from the rear face or the projection, while one or more other portion(s) of the projection remains attached to the rear face.

One or more region(s) of weakness or frangible connection(s) may be provided between said portion(s) of the projection and one or more other portion(s) of the projection.

One or more region(s) of weakness or frangible connection(s) may be provided between said portion(s) of the projection and the rear face.

The multiple support surfaces defined by the projection may be of different heights such that each support surface defines a different spacing distance. The body may comprise two or more said multi-part projections.

Said multi-part projections may be spaced equidistant from each other around the perimeter of the aperture to be formed.

Said multi-part projections may be spaced equi-angularly about a centre of the rear face. he body may be formed of one or any combination of: fibrous plasters such as

compositions comprising gypsum, polymers, metals, compositions comprising fibrous reinforcement, including cementitious fibre reinforced materials, fibre-glass materials.

The body may be formed of a polymer, such as, but not limited to: theromplastics, thermosetting polymers, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene

terephthalate (PET), or others which have suitable characteristics as may be desired for a particular use or installation situation.

The body may be formed of materials or treated, so as to be, or comprises of: an electrically conductive component, an anti-static component, an electrically insulating component, a fire resistant component, a fire retardant component, or a self- extinguishing component material.

The support surface(s) of the projection(s) may comprise(s) adhesive for adhesively engaging the support surface(s) with the panel.

The support surface(s) may include(s) removable backing protecting said adhesive, which upon removal exposes said adhesive.

Said existing aperture in said panel may be circular, and may have a width dimension of the rear face that is (or may be modified to be) equal to or less than a diameter of the existing circular aperture.

Said at least one support surface may be provided by the rear face that is or may comprise one or more flanged portion(s) extending outwardly from the outer surface, and wherein along said width dimension of the rear face:

a) said rear face is devoid of flanged portion(s),

b) flanged portion(s) may be removed,

c) flanged portion(s) are hingingly connected to the rear face.

Said width dimension may be substantially equal to the diameter of said outer side wall. Said rear face may be provided with one or more flanged portion(s) along said width dimension, said flanged portion(s) being removable from the rear face via one or more region(s) of weakness or frangible connection(s).

Said rear face may be provided with one or more flanged portion(s) along said width dimension, said flanged portion(s) being hingingly connected to the rear face via one or more hinge arrangements positioned at or directly adjacent said outer surface, such that said flanged portion(s) may be hinged inwardly to reduce said width dimension to be equal to or less than the diameter of the existing circular aperture.

The inner surface may comprise at least one inwardly extending ledge recessed from said rim of the inner surface.

The ledge of the inner surface may be continuous along the entire inner surface of the body.

The ledge may extends along a plane co-planar with one or more of said recessed regions.

Said inner surface may comprise two or more inwardly extending ledges, spaced along the height of the inner surface.

When said body is positioned in use on said panel, said ledge(s) of the inner surface may be configured to retain a fitting or fittings of a component to be inserted or located within the aperture defined by the body.

Said front face may comprise a plurality of recessed regions each associated with a rim, each rim having a rim surface, the rim surface being a surface projected from a respective associated recessed region so as to provide a reference surface, referenced relative to the first face of the panel, and each rim being associated at least in part with an associated inner side wall or a part of an inner side wall, and wherein each rim- associated inner side wall comprises at least one ledge extending inwardly therefrom.

Said ledge extending from each inner side wall may form at least part of each rim- associated recessed region.

At least a first rim and its associated recessed region may be disconnectable from a second rim and its associated recessed region via one or more frangible connection(s) located between the first rim and the ledge extending inwardly from the second rim- associated inner side wall.

In another aspect, the present invention broadly consists in assembly for defining an aperture to be formed in a panel, wherein the aperture to be formed is of a varied geometry (such as a reduced size or altered shape) relative to an existing aperture through a panel, the panel having a thickness defined between a first face and a second face, and the panel having an existing aperture side wall as defined by the existing aperture and extending between the first and second faces of the panel, the assembly comprising a body and an insert, wherein the body comprises:

an inner wall defining an aperture for receiving the insert,

an outer surface, and a rear face,

wherein the inner wall of the body comprises one or more engagement feature(s) for receiving the insert,

wherein the outer surface of the body comprises an outer side wall of the, or at least a part of the, aperture to be formed and/or of the existing aperture to be varied in geometry, the outer side wall to be, at least in part, located substantially adjacent to the existing aperture side wall when the body is positioned in use on said panel,

wherein the rear face of the body provides for at least one support surface to be located upon a region of the second face of the panel surrounding the existing aperture, and

wherein said insert comprises an inner side wall which defines an inner side wall of the aperture to be formed when said assembly is positioned in use on said panel.

The inner side wall of the insert may terminate with at least one rim on a front face of the insert, said front face of the insert comprising one or more recessed regions and each rim having a rim surface, the rim surface being a surface projected from at least one of the one or more recessed regions so as to provide a reference surface, referenced relative to the first face of the panel in use.

The insert may be detachably engaged to the inner wall of the body.

The insert may comprise a plurality of rims, and wherein one or more of the rims is/are detachable from the insert.

Said one or more detachable rims may be connected via one or more region(s) of weakness or frangible connection(s) to the insert.

Said rims may be arranged concentrically on the front face of the insert.

One or more inner rim(s) of said concentric arrangement may be detachable from the insert to define different aperture sizes to be formed.

Said engagement feature of the inner wall of the body may comprise at least two inwardly extending lugs for supporting the insert when assembled, each lug contacting at least an external edge region of a front face of the insert when assembled.

Each lug may comprise an end-stop on one side to require uni-directional insertion of the insert into engagement with said inner wall of the body.

Said uni-directional insertion may be in one of a clockwise or an anti-clockwise direction.

One or more pairs of said lugs may be arranged substantially diametrically opposite each other on an inner surface of said inner wall of the body. Said assembly may comprise more than two lugs, and wherein said lugs are spaced equidistant from each other on said inner wall of the body.

The inner wall of the body may further comprise one or more inwardly extending guide flange(s), positioned adjacent one or more said lug(s).

Said guide flange(s) may be positioned more rearward than said lug(s) on said inner wall of the body, the guide flange and lug forming a guide path for guiding insertion of said insert onto the body.

An external edge region of the insert may comprise at least two cut-outs, each cut-out sized to be equal or larger in length and width than each said lug of the body.

Said engagement feature of the inner wall of the body may be a screw thread.

The insert may comprise an outer side wall, said outer side wall comprising a screw thread for threaded engagement with said inner wall of the body.

Said threaded engagement may allow for adjustability of the position of the insert relative to the rear face of the body.

Said screw thread of the body may be on an external surface of the inner wall of the body, and said screw thread of the insert may be on an internal surface of the outer side wall of the insert.

Said screw thread of the body may be on an internal surface of the inner wall of the body, and said screw thread of the insert may be on an external surface of the outer side wall of the insert.

Said outer side wall of the insert may be between or about 1mm to about 20mm in height.

Said outer side wall of the insert may be between or about 5mm to about 10mm in height.

Said screw thread of the insert may be formed along substantially the entire height of the outer side wall of the insert.

The insert may comprise at least one inwardly extending ledge recessed from said rim of the inner side wall of the insert.

Said ledge of the inner side wall may be substantially continuous along the entire inner side wall of the insert.

The ledge may extend along a plane co-planar with one or more of said recessed regions of the insert.

Said inner side wall of the insert may comprise two or more inwardly extending ledges, spaced along the height of the inner side wall. When said assembly is positioned in use on said panel, said ledge(s) of the inner side wall of the insert may retain a fitting or fixture or fittings of a component inserted or located within the aperture defined by the insert.

Said front face of the insert may comprise a plurality of recessed regions each associated with a rim, each rim having a rim surface, the rim surface being a surface projected from a respective associated recessed region so as to provide a reference surface, referenced relative to the first face of the panel in use, and each rim being associated at least in part with an associated inner side wall or a part of an inner side wall of the insert, and wherein each rim-associated inner side wall comprises at least one ledge extending inwardly therefrom.

Said ledge may extend from each inner side wall of the insert and may form at least part of each rim-associated recessed region.

At least a first rim and its associated recessed region may be disconnectable from a second rim and its associated recessed region via one or more frangible connection(s) located between the first rim and the ledge extending inwardly from the second rim- associated inner side wall.

Said existing aperture in said panel may be circular, and a width dimension of said body is (or may be modified to be) equal to or less than a diameter of the existing circular aperture.

Said at least one support surface may be provided by the rear face of the body is may comprise one or more flanged portion(s) extending outwardly from the outer surface, and wherein along said width dimension of the body:

a) there is no flanged portion,

b) flanged portion(s) may be removed,

c) flanged portion(s) are hingingly connected to the body.

Said width dimension may be substantially equal to the diameter of said outer side wall of the body.

Said body may be provided with one or more flanged portion(s) along said width dimension, said flanged portion(s) being removable from the body via one or more region(s) of weakness or frangible connection(s).

Said body may be provided with one or more flanged portion(s) along said width dimension, said flanged portion(s) being hingingly connected to the body via one or more hinge arrangements positioned at or directly adjacent said outer surface, such that said flanged portion(s) may be hinged inwardly to reduce said width dimension be equal to or less than the diameter of the existing circular aperture. Said insert may comprise a central recessed region to provide a plug closure for said existing aperture when the assembly is positioned in use on said panel.

Said central recessed region may be detachable from a rim of the insert.

The rear face of the body may comprise one or more projections, each projection extending from the rear face towards a front face of the insert (when said insert is inserted into the body) to terminate at a support surface, the distance between the support surface and the front face of said insert defining a spacing distance.

Said body and/or projection(s) may comprise(s) one or more further features as described in any one or more of the preceding aspects or embodiments.

The inner side wall of the insert may comprise at least one hinging arm, said arm being hingingly movable in a direction towards the an outer surface of the insert for reversibly accommodating and engaging a part of a fitting to be inserted into said insert when installed,

the inner side wall of the insert further comprising a guiding feature adjacent said arm for guiding movement of said part of the fitting into engagement with said arm.

Said inner side wall of the insert may comprise one or more further features as described in any one or more of the following aspects or embodiments.

In another aspect, the present invention broadly consists in a body comprising :

an inner surface,

an outer surface,

a front face, and

a rear face,

the aperture to be formed being of a varied geometry relative to an existing aperture through a panel,

wherein the inner surface provides for an inner side wall of the aperture to be formed, the panel having a thickness defined between a first face and a second face, and the panel having an existing aperture side wall as defined by the existing aperture and extending between the first and second faces of the panel,

the outer surface comprising an outer side wall of the, or at least a part of the, aperture to be formed and/or of the existing aperture to be varied in geometry, the outer side wall to be, at least in part, located substantially adjacent to the existing aperture side wall when the body is positioned in use on said panel,

the rear face provides for at least one support surface to be located upon a region of the second face of the panel surrounding the existing aperture, the inner surface terminates with at least one rim on the front face, the inner surface comprising at least one inwardly extending ledge recessed from said rim,

the front face comprising one or more recessed regions each associated with a rim, each rim having a rim surface, the rim surface being a surface projected from a respective associated recessed region so as to provide a reference surface, referenced relative to the first face of the panel, and each rim being associated at least in part with an associated inner side wall or a part of an inner side wall,

wherein each rim surface is substantially planar with the first face of the panel, and each said recessed region is a surface recessed from the first face of the panel and recessed relative to an associated the rim surface, when said rear face of the body is located upon the second face of the panel.

The ledge of the inner surface may be substantially continuous along the entire inner surface of the body.

The ledge may extend along a plane co-planar with one or more of said recessed regions. One or more of the plurality of associated recessed regions and/or the associated rim, or an associated recessed region and an associated rim, may be separately connectable to or disconnectable from the body.

The body may comprise at least one ledge extending inwardly from each rim-associated inner side wall.

Each said ledge may extend from each inner side wall and may form at least part of each rim-associated recessed region.

At least a first rim and its associated recessed region may be disconnectable from a second rim and its associated recessed region via one or more frangible connection(s) located between the first rim and the ledge extending inwardly from the second rim- associated inner side wall.

The at least one inwardly extending ledge of the inner surface may be recessed from the first face of the panel when said rear face of the body is located on the second face of the panel, said ledge configured to retain a flange or part of a lighting fixture in use.

In another aspect, the present invention broadly consists in a light fitting assembly for installing into a panel, the panel having a thickness defined between a first face and a second face, and the panel having an existing aperture side wall extending between the first and second faces of the panel, the assembly comprising :

a body as described in any one or more of the preceding aspects or

embodiments, and

a lighting fixture, wherein, when positioned in use on said panel such that the rear face of the body is located on the second face of the panel surrounding the existing aperture, said rims of the body are substantially co-planar with the first face of the panel, and

wherein, when said lighting fixture is inserted into said body in use, the lighting fixture is retained by said ledge(s) of the inner surface of the body, such that a front face of the lighting fixture is substantially co-planar with or recessed from one or more of: a) the first face of the panel,

b) the rim of the inner surface of the body.

It is further contemplated that where a light fitting or fixture is described, said light fitting may be substituted with any other fitting or component to be installed into a panel, such as, speakers, furniture, ducts, piping, components of alarm or safety systems (e.g., smoke detectors, gas detectors, infrared motion detectors) or any other outlet, utility or appliance.

In another aspect, the present invention broadly consists in a body defining an aperture to be formed in a panel, the body comprising :

an inner surface,

an outer surface,

a front face, and

a rear face,

the aperture to be formed being of a varied geometry (such as a reduced size or altered shape) relative to an existing aperture through a panel,

wherein the inner surface provides for an inner side wall of the aperture to be formed, the panel having a thickness defined between a first face and a second face, and the panel having an existing aperture side wall as defined by the existing aperture and extending between the first and second faces of the panel,

the outer surface comprising an outer side wall of the, or at least a part of the, aperture to be formed and/or of the existing aperture to be varied in geometry, the outer side wall to be, at least in part, located substantially adjacent to the existing aperture side wall when the body is positioned in use on said panel,

the rear face provides for at least one support surface to be located upon a region of the second face of the panel surrounding the existing aperture, and

wherein the inner side wall terminates with at least one rim on the front face, the front face comprising one or more recessed regions and each rim having a rim surface, the rim surface being a surface projected from at least one of the one or more recessed regions so as to provide a reference surface, referenced relative to the first face of the panel,

wherein a width dimension of the rear face is (or may be modified to be) equal to or less than a largest width dimension of the existing aperture.

In one embodiment, the existing aperture is circular.

Said at least one support surface provided by the rear face may be or may comprises one or more flanged portion(s) extending outwardly from the outer surface, and wherein along said width dimension of the rear face:

a) said rear face is devoid of flanged portion(s),

b) flanged portion(s) may be removed,

c) flanged portion(s) are hingingly connected to the rear face.

Said width dimension may be substantially equal to the diameter of said outer side wall.

Said rear face may be provided with one or more flanged portion(s) along said width dimension, said flanged portion(s) being removable from the rear face via one or more region(s) of weakness or frangible connection(s).

Said rear face may be provided with one or more flanged portion(s) along said width dimension, said flanged portion(s) being hingingly connected to the rear face via one or more hinge arrangements positioned at or directly adjacent said outer surface, such that said flanged portion(s) may be hinged inwardly to reduce said width dimension be equal to or less than the diameter of the existing circular aperture.

Said inner side wall may comprise at least one inwardly extending ledge recessed from said rim.

Said body and/or inwardly extending ledge may comprise(s) one or more further features as described in any one or more of the preceding aspects or embodiments.

In another aspect, the present invention broadly consists in a body defining an aperture to be formed in a panel, the body comprising :

an inner surface,

an outer surface,

a front face, and

a rear face,

the aperture to be formed being of a varied geometry relative to an existing aperture through a panel, wherein the inner surface provides for an inner side wall of the aperture to be formed, the panel having a thickness defined between a first face and a second face, and the panel having an existing aperture side wall as defined by the existing aperture and extending between the first and second faces of the panel,

the outer surface comprising an outer side wall of the, or at least a part of the, aperture to be formed and/or of the existing aperture to be varied in geometry, the outer side wall to be, at least in part, located substantially adjacent to the existing aperture side wall when the body is positioned in use on said panel,

the rear face provides for at least one support surface to be located upon a region of the second face of the panel surrounding the existing aperture,

the inner surface terminates with at least one rim on the front face,

the inner surface comprising at least one hinging arm, said arm being hingingly movable in a direction towards the outer surface of the body for reversibly

accommodating and engaging a part of a fitting to be inserted into said body when installed,

the inner surface further comprising a guiding feature adjacent said arm for guiding movement of said part of the fitting into engagement with said arm,

the front face comprising one or more (or a plurality of) recessed regions each associated with a rim, each rim having a rim surface, the rim surface being a surface projected from a respective associated recessed region so as to provide a reference surface, referenced relative to the first face of the panel, and each rim being associated at least in part with an associated inner side wall or a part of an inner side wall.

Each rim surface may be substantially planar with the first face of the panel, and each said recessed region is a surface recessed from the first face of the panel and recessed relative to an associated the rim surface, when said rear face of the body is located upon the second face of the panel.

A pivot axis of said hinging arm may be substantially parallel to a direction extending from the rear face to the front face of the body.

The hinging arm is connected to the body via a living hinge.

A free end of said hinging arm may comprises one of a protrusion and a recess for engaging a complementary feature on said part of the fitting.

Said hinging arm may be biased against movement in the direction towards the outer surface of the body. Said guiding feature may comprise a channel for receiving and guiding a lug of said part of the fitting and an end stop at one end to abut against said lug and prevent further movement of said part of the fitting relative to the body.

Said body may comprise two said hinging arms positioned substantially diametrically opposite each other on the inner surface.

In another aspect, the present invention broadly consists in a light fitting assembly for installing into a panel, the panel having a thickness defined between a first face and a second face, and the panel having an existing aperture side wall extending between the first and second faces of the panel, the assembly comprising :

a body as described in any one of the preceding aspects or embodiments for inserting into said existing aperture, and

a light fitting,

wherein said light fitting is inserted into the body in use and guided into engagement with said hinging arm via the guiding feature,

wherein a part of said light fitting pushes said hinging arm in the direction towards the outer surface of the body during at least a part of the guided movement, wherein the light fitting is reversibly retained in said body by engaging with said at least one hinging arm.

Said hinging arm of the body may comprise one of a protrusion and a recess, for engaging one of a complementary recess or protrusion respectively on the light fitting at the end of said guided movement.

Said guiding feature of the body may comprise a channel for receiving and guiding a lug of the light fitting, and said guiding feature further comprises an end stop at one end of said channel to abut against said lug and prevent further movement of the light fitting relative to the body.

Said reversible connection between said body and said light fitting may be a bayonet type connection.

Said part of the light fitting may comprise an adaptor mounted to an outer wall of the lighting fixture.

Said adaptor may be retrofitted to said light fitting and mounted to said outer wall via a mechanical fastener.

It is further contemplated that where a light fitting or fixture is described, said light fitting may be substituted with any other fitting or component to be installed into a panel, such as, speakers, furniture, ducts, piping, components of alarm or safety systems (e.g., smoke detectors, gas detectors, infrared motion detectors) or any other outlet, utility or appliance.

It is further contemplated that any such fittings or components or systems to be installed may be retrofitted with suitable adaptors for installing into a body or assembly as described in any one of the preceding aspects or embodiments.

In another embodiment, the rear face of the body comprises one or more projections, each projection extending from the rear face towards the front face of the body to terminate at a support surface, the distance between the support surface and the front face defining a spacing distance.

In another embodiment, said body and/or projection(s) comprise(s) one or more further features as described in any one or more of the preceding aspects or embodiments.

In another embodiment, a width dimension of the rear face is (or may be modified to be) equal to or less than a largest width dimension of the existing aperture.

In another embodiment, said rear face of the body comprises one or more further features as described in any one or more of the preceding aspects or embodiments.

It is further contemplated that an assembly may comprise the body as described herein, and in particular with reference to any one or more of the preceding aspects or embodiments.

The invention described herein provides for both single piece products and multi-piece assembly products providing for a system in which a reference surface provided by a reference rim is height adjustable with respect to a body and with respect to a surface of a panel onto which the product is to be affixed or mounted.

For the purposes of this specification, reference to "size" of the aperture, whether existing or that as formed by the inner surface of the body encompasses at least the area defined by the opening of the aperture at the surface of the first face of a panel.

It will be appreciated the body of this invention may also be utilised for use in altering or reducing or amending the shape or dimension of other aspects of an aperture through a panel, for example the body may provide for a greater thickness defined by the inner side wall of the body defining the aperture, compared to say the thickness of an existing aperture through a panel, where the thickness may be that of a side wall as defined by thickness between a first face and a second face of the panel.

The term "comprising" as used in this specification means "consisting at least in part of". When interpreting each statement in this specification that includes the term

"comprising", features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprises" are to be interpreted in the same manner. This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

The invention consists in the foregoing and also envisages constructions of which the following gives examples only.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described by way of example only and with reference to the drawings, in which :

Figure 1 illustrates a panel with an existing aperture into which the body or assembly of this invention may be inserted,

Figure 2 illustrates one embodiment of a body of the present invention,

Figure 3 illustrates another embodiment of a body comprising projections,

Figure 4 illustrates another embodiment of a body comprising projections,

Figure 5 shows a top view of the embodiment of Figure 4,

Figure 6 shows a side view of the embodiment of Figures 4 and 5,

Figures 7a-7f schematically illustrate various embodiments of connectable projections, Figures 8a and 8b schematically illustrate top and cross-sectional views of a multi-part projection according to one embodiment,

Figures 9a schematically illustrates a top view of a multi-part projection according to another embodiment,

Figures 9b and 9c schematically illustrate cross-sectional views of two examples of the multi-part projection of Figure 9a,

Figure 10 illustrates an embodiment of an assembly of the present invention,

Figure 11 illustrates the body component of the assembly of Figure 10,

Figure 12 illustrates another embodiment of an assembly,

Figure 13 illustrates one embodiment of an insert that may be used with the assembly of Figure 10,

Figure 14 illustrates another embodiment of an insert that may be used with the assembly of Figure 10, Figure 15 illustrates another embodiment of an insert that may be used with the assembly of Figure 10,

Figures 16a and 16b illustrate other embodiments of an assembly of the present invention,

Figure 17 illustrates one embodiment of an insert that may be used with the assembly of Figure 16,

Figure 18 illustrates another embodiment of an insert that may be used with the assembly of Figure 16,

Figure 19 illustrates another embodiment of an insert that may be used with the assembly of Figure 16

Figures 20a-20d illustrate a series of side views of the assembly of Figure 16,

Figure 21 shows another embodiment of a body of the present invention,

Figure 22 shows another embodiment of a body of the present invention,

Figure 23 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view through an installed body or assembly in an existing aperture,

Figure 24 shows another embodiment of a body of the present invention, including a light fitting,

Figure 25 shows the body of Figure 24,

Figure 26 shows the light fitting of Figure 24,

Figure 27 shows an embodiment of an assembly of the present invention with a light fixture inserted, to show the "trimless" fit,

Figure 28 is an exploded view of Figure 27.

Figure 29 shows an assembly comprising the body of Figures 32A-32D.

Figure 29A shows an exploded view of the assembly of Figure 29.

Figures 29B and 29C shows other views of the assembly of Figure 29.

Figures 30A-30C show an assembly comprising an insert, a body and an intermediate adapter.

Figure 31 - 31A show various views an embodiment of an insert of the present invention.

Figure 32 - 32B show various views an embodiment of an insert of the present invention. Figures 32C and 32D show the insert of figures 32-32B comprising with a fixture installed.

Figure 33 and 33A show various views an embodiment of a body receivable of an insert. Figure 34 and 34A show an embodiment of a body receivable of an insert.

Figure 35 and 35A show an embodiment of a body receivable of an insert.

Figure 36 shows an embodiment of a body of the present invention.

Figure 37 shows an embodiment of a body of the present invention which is mountable of the first (or front face) of a panel.

Figure 37A shows the body of Figure 37 located in a panel, and with a fixture installed.

Figure 37B shows the body of Figure 37 located in a panel without a fixture installed.

Figure 37C shows a panel, without a body installed.

Figure 38 shows an embodiment of a body of the present invention which is mountable of the first (or front face) of a panel.

Figure 38 - 43 shows various embodiments of a body of the present invention which is mountable of the second (or rear face) of a panel.

Figure 44A - 44C show an embodiment of a body of the present invention which is mountable of the first (or front face) of a panel, Figure 44A shows the body in a panel. Figure 45 shows an embodiment of a body of the present invention.

Figures 45A and 45B show cross-sections of the body of Figure 44B.

Figures 45D and 45C show cross-sections of a ramped region of a body.

Figure 46A and 46B show an embodiment of a body of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

This invention facilitates the alteration in the shape or size of an aperture opening through a panel, for example a building panel such as a ceiling or a wall. The following description is provided as exemplary of the invention, and is made with reference to the accompanying drawings.

This invention also provides for a relatively uncomplicated system for reducing the geometry, such as shape or size of an existing aperture, whilst as the same time provides a platform upon which materials, such as concealing compositions - e.g .

plaster, paint or other fillers or finishes, may be applied to conceal the joint region between the body and the surrounding panel.

It will also be appreciated the present invention may be utilised for improving or strengthening the aperture cut or made in a building panel to receive a fitting, such as a light fitting (or any other outlet or utility requiring an aperture through a building panel) or a wall socket (such as for electrical outlets or indeed any other outlet requiring an aperture through a building panel). For example, the existing aperture referred to here may be the aperture which is initially cut or made in a building panel to then receive a fitting. The insert body or assembly of the invention is then able to be inserted into the aperture made, and the body or assembly provides for a defined geometry of a final or finished aperture.

The body or assembly of the invention facilitates an improvement in the strength of the building panel and any finishes made about the aperture so cut or made, and in this way can help to minimise possible "break-out" in which the materials used around the aperture are compromised as to their structural integrity due to forces imposed upon them, for example by a light fitting imparting a force on a building panel about the aperture. "Break out" may result in cracking of plaster or paint or other unsightly effects in decorative finishes around the aperture.

Accordingly, in one embodiment of this invention as shown in Figure 2, there is provided a body 1 defining an aperture 2 to be formed in a panel 3. The body 1 comprises an inner surface 4, an outer surface 5, a front face 6 and a rear face 7. The inner surface 4 defines an inner side wall 8 of the aperture 2 to be formed, the aperture 2 to be formed being of a reduced size or altering the shape or geometry relative to an existing aperture 9 through a panel 3.

As shown in the example of Figure 1, the panel 3 has a thickness 10 defined between a first face 11 and a second face 12, and an existing aperture 9 side wall 13 as defined by the existing aperture 9 and which extends between the first and second faces 11, 12 of the panel.

The outer surface 5 of the body 1 comprises an outer side wall of the aperture 3 to be formed. The outer side wall is to be located substantially adjacent to the existing aperture side wall 13 when the body 1 is positioned in use on the panel 3. The rear face 7 provides for at least one support surface to be located upon the second face 12 of the panel 3, surrounding the existing aperture 9.

The inner side wall 8 of the body 1 terminates as a rim 16 on the front face 6. The front face 6 comprises a recessed region 17 and the rim 16, where the rim has a rim surface 18. The rim surface 18 projects from the recessed region 17 so as to provide a reference surface 19, referenced relative to the first face 11 of the panel 3, when the body is positioned in use on the panel 3.

As shown by Figure 1, a panel 3 may have an existing aperture 9 of a certain size. Where the geometry of that opening or aperture 9 is to be reduced or altered (for example in shape or size), then installation of the present invention can be used to achieve that means. It should be appreciated that whilst the figures show circular apertures, this invention can be applied to apertures which may be of rectilinear other shapes. The body 1 is to be located within the existing aperture 9 of the panel 3 for altering geometry, such as the shape or reducing the size, such as the size of the opening, of that existing aperture 9.

In one preferred form, the rim surface 18 is substantially planar with the first face 11 of the panel 3 when the rear face 7 of the body 1 is located upon the second face 12 of the panel 3. More particularly, the rim surface 18 can be a substantially planar surface - for example, providing a planar and/or level surface upon which a material can be

subsequently applied. The rim surface 18 is provided to receive a material.

The recessed region 17 is recessed relative to the rim surface 18. In this manner the recessed region 17 is a surface which is recessed from the first face 11 of the panel 3 when the rear face 7 is located upon the second face 12 of the panel 3. It will be appreciated location of the rear face 7 upon the second face of the panel facilitates location of the body with respect to the existing aperture and each of the first and second faces 11, 12 of the panel.

In various embodiments, such as those illustrated as Figures 3 to 5, the front face 6 can comprise of a plurality of associated recessed regions 17 (17a, 17b, 17d) each having an associated rim 16 (16a, 16b, 16c), each rim having an associated rim surface 18 (not labelled in the figures, but would be labelled as 18A, 18B, 18C), each of the associated rim surfaces 18 projecting from a respective associated recessed region 17.

Each rim surface 18 provides for a reference surface 19, which is to be referenced relative to the first face of the panel, or may be referenced to any another surface to which a desired finish material is wanted. In this way, the rim 16 can project to any desired gauge above the recessed region.

Each rim 16 is to be generally associated at least in part with an associated inner side wall 8 or a part of an inner side wall 8, for example the rim of 16A is associated with the inner side wall 8A, and the rim 16B is associated with the inner side wall 8B and so forth.

Advantageously, one or more of the plurality of associated recessed regions, e.g. 17a, 17b, 17d and/or the associated rims, e.g. 16a, 16b, 16c, or an associated recessed region and an associated rim, is/are separately connectable to, or disconnectable from, the body 1.

A connection system 20 can be provided between a first of an associated recessed region an associated rim (e.g. 17a and 16a) and a second of an associated recessed region and an associated rim (e.g. 17b and 16b). The connection system 20 can allow for a connection or disconnection to or from the body 1 of one or more of the associated recessed regions with an associated rim or one or more associated recessed regions. In this way, the body 1 can facilitate a variety of different aperture geometries to be achieved through use of a single body 1. The connection system 20 may be of any suitable form, but for example may be a snap- in or snap-out fit type arrangement.

In another embodiment, the connection system 20 may be a frangible connection or a series of frangible connection points (such as small teeth which may be broken on application of a force) provided, for example between a first of an associated recessed region and an associated rim (e.g. 17a and 16a) and a second of an associated recessed region and an associated rim (e.g. 17b and 16b). The frangible connection can allow for disconnection or removal of one or more recessed region(s) and rim(s) from the body 1. Frangible connection points may be a series of teeth, for example those shown in Figures 3, 4 and 5.

In a preferred arrangement, the frangible connection 20 can be located between an inner side wall of the first associated recessed region with the first associated rim and the second recessed region with the second associated rim. The at least one frangible connection allows for a disconnection or removal of at least one associated region and associated rim from another associated region and associated rim, thereby providing an end user of the body to customise the inner aperture geometry according to a desired sizing need.

Any sequence of sizings may be provided for the aperture to be formed by the inner side wall of the body, however some preferred circular sizings are: a large diameter of about 103mm and then a series of reduced diameters, such as for example, but not limited to those having an inner side wall diameter of about 93mm, or about 80mm.

As seen from the figures, where there is a plurality of associated recessed regions and/or associated rim, these together form the front face 6 of the body 1.

As mentioned, the connection system 20 can allow for a snap-in or snap-fit connection for connecting one or more associated recessed regions with an associated rim and an inner side wall to the body or to one or more associated recessed regions with an associated rim and an inner side wall. In this way, the front face may be constructed or deconstructed to have additional (or less) sets of recessed regions and rims, depending on the desired inner diameter of the aperture to be formed. The front face 6 can comprise of a series or sequence of sets of associated recessed regions and associated rims each with an associated inner side wall, whether removable from or connectable to the body, each set providing geometry (such as size or shape).

It will be appreciated various geometric forms can be taken, but in one example, the plurality of associated recessed regions and associated rims with associated inner side walls are concentric with each other. For example, there may be a concentric series of sets of associated recessed regions and associated rims with associated inner side walls. In yet another embodiment, the front face 6 of the body may comprise of an additional recessed region, such as that itemised as a central recessed region 17d in Figures 3, 4 and 5. Such a central recessed region may be optionally surrounded by a rim, such as 16a that is associated with a different recessed region, such as that of 17a.

In various embodiments, the centralised recessed region 17d allows the body 1 to be used as a plug for completely enclosing an existing aperture. The centralised recessed region 17d may be removed so as to provide for a body 1 which then defines an inner aperture. The recessed region 17d may be removed via use of frangible connection points 20 surrounding an outer perimeter of the region 17d, or each part of region 17d. In an alternative, it will be appreciated that the region 17d may be inserted or fitted into place with respect to the body 1 (e.g. a body 1 with one or a plurality of recessed regions and rims and inner side walls, can be configured to receive a further recessed region). In this manner, the further recessed region can provide for a plug of the inner aperture so formed and the body 1 can then be used to completely close or enclose an existing aperture through a building panel.

Where the recessed region 17d is to be removed via use of frangible connections, such frangible connections may be those as utilised between one or more of a plurality of associated recessed regions and associated rims and their respective inner side walls. For example, a series of teeth may be provided (for example as shown in Figures 3, 4 and 5) which can allow for the recessed region 17d to be pushed out from an in-situ connection.

In one embodiment as shown in Figures 3 to 6, rear face 7 may comprise one or more projections 50, each projection extending from the rear face 7 towards the front face 6 of the body to terminate at a support surface 51 of the projection. The height of the projection (i.e., distance of extension) is labelled with reference numeral 53.

The support surface 51 is to be located upon a region or regions of the second face 12 of the panel 3, surrounding the existing aperture 9, when the body is positioned in use on the panel 3. Accordingly, the support surface 51 of each projection may be substantially planar and continuous, so as to provide sufficient surface area for contacting and supporting the body 1 on second face 12 of the panel 3 when installed.

The projections 50 shown in Figures 3 to 6 are provided as substantially discrete units, positioned at specific locations around the rear face 7. In other embodiments, the projections 50 may be provided as circular formations (not shown) (or otherwise shaped substantially the same as the perimeter of the rear edge) at the outer edge of the rear face, which may substantially encompass the entire circumference of the rear face.

Accordingly, the projections according to this embodiment provides a larger and more stable support surface 51 on which to position the body 1 on the panel 3 when installed. In other embodiments, the support surface 51 of one or more of the projections 50 may be discontinuous, or may comprise surface texturing, e.g., ribs, ridges, protrusion, etc such that the support surface 51 is not substantially planar. Such surface texturing may provide increased surface area, for increased strength of the projection 51, and/or increased contact area between the projection 51 and the panel 3 and/or increased adhesion or bonding between the projection 51 and the panel 3.

One or more of the projections 50 may comprise adhesive (not shown) on the support surface(s) 51, for adhesively engaging with the panel 3. In some embodiments, the adhesive may be provided as an adhesive layer, optionally covered by a protective release backing.

The distance between the support surface 51 of the projection 50 and the front face 6 defines a spacing distance 52. Preferably, the spacing distance 52 of at least one projection 50 is substantially equal to the thickness 10 of the panel 3. That is, the spacing distance 52 is such that when the body is positioned on the panel, with the support surface 51 of the projection contacting the second face 12 of the panel, rim surface 18 of the front face 6 is preferably substantially planar with the first face 11 of the panel 3.

In other embodiments, the spacing distance 52 of one or more projections 50 may be less than or greater than the thickness 10 of the panel 3. For example, the body may comprise more than one projection 50, each having a different spacing distance, so that the same body 1 may be used on panels of different thicknesses. This embodiment is discussed in more detail below.

Alternatively, this providing a spacing distance 52 less than or greater than the thickness 10 of the panel 3 may allow for the rim surface 18 to be recessed or to extend from the surface 11 of the panel in use, if so desired.

Preferably, the body 1 comprises a plurality of projections 50, each defining a support surface 51, such that more than one support surface 51 contacts the second face 12 of the panel in use.

For example, as shown in Figures 3 to 6, the rear face 7 comprises at least one set 55 of projections. The set 55 comprises a plurality of projections, each extending substantially the same height 53 from the rear face 7, and therefore defining substantially the same spacing distance 52. In use, the support surfaces 51 of all the projections of the set 55 contact the second face of the panel when the body is positioned in use on said panel.

The projections within a set 55 may be spaced apart from each other, arranged serially about or around the rear face 7 of the body 1. For example, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the projections of set 55 are spaced apart from each other around the perimeter of the rear face. The projections of a set (e.g., set 55a) may be spaced substantially equidistant from each other around the perimeter of the aperture 2 to be formed.

In another example, if there are only two projections within the set, the projections may be arranged substantially diametrically opposite each other, in order to provide more balanced and stable support of the body on the panel. In other embodiments, the projections may be arranged in reflective or rotational symmetry on the rear face 7, to provide the stable support.

Additionally or alternatively, the projections may be spaced substantially equi-angularly from each other, about a centre 57 of the rear face. In the example shown in Figures 3 and 4, the projections of the set 55a and 55b are arranged substantially 90 degrees from each other relative to the centre 57.

In some embodiments, the body 1 may comprise more than one set 55 of projections. For example, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the rear face 7 comprises three sets of projections 55, 55a, 55b. The spacing distance defined by the projection(s) of one set is different from the spacing distance defined by the projection(s) of another set.

Preferably, each set comprises a plurality of projections, each projection within one set extending substantially the same height 53 from the rear face 7, but the projections from different sets extending different heights to define different spacing distances.

Each set may contain the same number of projections, or there may be more projections in one or more sets compared to other sets. These embodiments may allow the body 1 to be adapted to be used for different applications and/or different thicknesses 10 of panel 3, by disconnecting and/or connecting one or more sets of projection, as will be discussed in more detail below.

In one embodiment, the rear face 7 comprises a plurality of sets 55 (55, 55a, 55b) of projections, and each set comprises a plurality of projections 50. One projection from each set may be located in substantially the same region of the rear face as a projection from another set, to define a group 56 of projections. That is, the rear face may comprise a plurality of groups 56 (56, 56a, 56b, 56c) of projections, each group 56 comprising multiple projections each of a different height 53 and/or each projection defining a different spacing distance 52.

In an embodiment shown in Figures 3 and 4, one projection from each set may be located substantially adjacent a projection from another set, so that the groups 56 (56, 56a, 56b, 56c) of projections are arranged in substantially discrete arrays around the rear face 7 of the body.

The groups 56, 56a, 56b, 56c may be spaced substantially equidistant from each other around the perimeter of the aperture to be formed. Additionally or alternatively, the groups 56 of projections may be spaced substantially equi-angularly from each other, about a centre 57 of the rear face.

The body 1 may be more readily adapted or customised to suit various applications by providing projections 50 of different heights. As discussed, in the preferred embodiment, the body 1 comprises multiple sets 55 of projections, each set comprising projection(s) of the same height (or that define the same spacing distance), but of different height (or defining a different spacing distance) compared to the projections of another set.

In one embodiment, the difference in projection height 53 between one set of projections and the set of projections next closest in height is between 1mm and 10mm, more preferably between 2mm and 5mm. This height difference may apply to all the sets of projections (if more than two sets are provided).

In the example shown in Figures 3, 4 and 6, the rear face 7 comprises three sets of projections, 55, 55a, 55b. The first or shortest set of projections 55b may comprise projections extending a distance 53 of between 1mm and 5mm from the rear face. The second set 55a may comprise projections extending a distance 53 of between 2mm and 15mm from the rear face. The third set 55 may comprise projections extending a distance 53 of between 3mm and 25mm from the rear face. Further sets, such as a fourth set (not shown) may comprise projections extending a distance 53 of between 4mm and 35mm from the rear face.

In terms of spacing distance 52, the first or shortest set of projections 55b may comprise projections that define a spacing distance of between 3mm and 35mm, but preferably less than or equal to 13 mm. The second set 55a may comprise projections that define a spacing distance of between 2mm and 25 mm. The third set 55 may comprise projections that define a spacing distance of between 1mm and 15 mm.

It will be appreciated that the spacing distances may be customised depend on the specific application. For example, GIB® Standard plasterboard is available in 10 mm or 13 mm thicknesses. Accordingly, at least one set of projections preferably defines a spacing distance of 10 mm, and another set of projections may define a spacing distance of 13 mm. Further, for specific applications such as fire-rated systems, thicker panels, or multiple layers of panels may be required. This option may be accommodated by providing further sets of projections that define larger spacing distances.

Adapting the body 1 for different applications (e.g., for different panel thicknesses) by disconnecting and/or connecting one or more sets 55 of projections will now be described.

In one embodiment, one or more sets (55, 55a, 55b) of projections may be (separately or jointly) disconnectable, removable, or detachable from the rear face 7. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the projections 50 may be connected to the rear face 7 via one or more regions of weakness 60, e.g ., a manually frangible connection that may allow for quick and convenient detaching of one or more of the projections from the rear face 7. For example, the projection 50 may be connected to the rear face 7 via small teeth which may be broken on application of a force.

The projections 50 together with regions of weakness 60 or frangible connections may be integrally formed with the rear face 7. Alternatively, the regions of weakness 60 may be post-formed, e.g ., by cutting, crimping, perforating, creasing, thinning etc., after the body has been formed. Disconnecting the projections 50 may leave an aperture 61 in the rear face 7 of the body 1.

In other embodiments, e.g. as shown in Figure 3, the projections 50 may be cut or filed off the rear face prior to installation on the panel 3.

In an alternative embodiment, where the projections 50 are provided as circular (or perimeter-shaped) formations (not shown) at the outer edge of the rear face, multiple projections of different heights may be provided substantially concentrically along the outer edge of the rear face. These may be connected to each other via frangible connections, in order to facilitate disconnection of one or more projections which are unnecessary.

In use, the set(s) of projections that are disconnected or removed prior to installation depends on the spacing height required (which typically depends on the thickness 10 of the panel 3). All of the projections defining a spacing distance smaller than the required spacing distance may be removed prior to installation.

In some cases, all the projections from at least one set are disconnected, removed, or detached from the rear face prior to positioning the body on said panel in use. In other cases, all projections except for the projections of one set are disconnected, removed, or detached from the rear face prior to positioning the body on said panel in use. This will be case if the spacing distance required is defined by the set of projections containing the shortest projections on the rear face.

In an embodiment, all of the projections 50 are disconnectable, removable, or detachable from the rear face 7, and if all projections are disconnected, the rear face 7 defines the support surface for contacting the second face 12 of the panel when installed on the panel 3.

In some embodiments, some or all of the projections 50 may be selectively connectable and/or reversibly re-connectable to the rear face 7 of the body. For example, one or more projections 50 could be provided as separate members from that of the body. The projections may be connectable or attachable or engageable with the rear face 7 so as to define one or more support surfaces 51 spaced from the rear face. The body and the connectable/ re-connectable projections (whether separate from the body or initially attached to the body) could be provided as a kit of parts. Additionally or alternatively, the projections could be re-connectable onto the body 1 after being disconnected.

Accordingly, the user could reversibly connect and disconnect the projections 50, rearranging them according to any preferred arrangement.

The projections 50 may be attached to the rear face 7 in any suitable manner. For example, as shown in Figure 7b, the rear face could comprise one or more lugs 72 or other connecting formations, that could be received in one or more recesses 73 or other receiving formation in the body of the projection 50. It will be appreciated that the arrangement could be reversed such that the rear face comprises a receiving formation, while the projection comprises a lug or other complementary connecting formation.

In another example, as shown in Figures 7a, 7c, 7d, 7e, 7f, the rear face may be provided with one or more apertures, cut outs, or recesses 65 which act as a shoe to receive the body or foot 66 of projection 50. For example, as shown in Figure 7c, the projection 50 could be attached to the aperture 65 using adhesive 67, which could be applied by the installer during installation, or could be provided as a pre-applied adhesive layer, optionally covered by a protective release sheet.

In another embodiment as shown in Figures 7d and 7e, the foot or body of the projection 66 could comprise one or more flanges 68 which would fit into one or more slots 69 in the aperture 65 provided in the rear face 7. If more than one receiving slots 69 are provided along the height of the side wall of the aperture 65, this could allow for a single projection to be customised for different spacing distances 52.

Other embodiments for engaging the projection to the rear face 7 may be used, for example a screw thread engagement such as shown in Figure 7f. The rear face could be provided as a screw thread on the side wall of the aperture 65, which engages with a complementary screw thread formation 71 on foot or body 66 of the projection. This embodiment could also allow for customisation of the height/spacing distance provided by each projection.

Additionally or alternatively, one or more multi-part projections 75 could be provided. For example, as shown in Figures 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b and 9c, a multi-part projection 75 may define multiple support surfaces 51a, 51b, 51c. At least one portion 76a of the projection forming one of the support surfaces 51a is preferably disconnectable, removable, or detachable from the rear face 7 and/or the projection 75, while one or more other portion(s) (e.g., 76b, 76c) of the projection can remain attached to the rear face, to provide at least one support surface for positioning on the second face 12 of the panel 3. Preferably, the multiple support surfaces 51a, 51b, 51c defined by the projection are of different heights such that each support surface defines a different spacing distance. Accordingly, the body 1 may be adapted in-situ, to define the appropriate spacing distance for the particular application by disconnecting one or more portions 76a, 76b, 76c of the projection 75 that are not required.

The separable portions 76a, 76b, 76c may be connected to each other via one or more regions of weakness 78, e.g ., a manually frangible connection, that may allow for quick and convenient detaching of the portion(s) from the rest of the multi-part projection. For example, the portions 76a, 76b, 76c may be connected to each other via small teeth which may be broken on application of a force.

Similar regions of weakness 60 may be provided between one or more portion(s) 76a, 76b, 76c of the multi-part projection 75 and the rear face 7, to allow the portion(s) to be detached (independently or together with one or more other portions) from the rear face 7.

Figures 8a and 8b show an exemplary embodiment of a multi-part projection comprising the separable portions 76a, 76b, 76c arranged laterally across the rear face 7, each portion comprising a support surface 51a, 51b, 51c defining a different spacing distance. Figures 8a, 8b and 8c show other exemplary embodiments of a multi-part projection, in which the separable portions 76a, 76b, 76c are arranged vertically, or along the height of the projection. One or more portions may be detached to modify the height or spacing distance of the projection.

In the preferred embodiment, the entire multi-part projection 75 may be disconnected, removed or detached from the rear face 7, such that the rear face 7 defines the support surface for contacting the second face 12 of the panel when installed on the panel 3.

In another embodiment, one or more separable portions of the multi-part projection 75 may be connectable or re-connectable to the rear face 7 and/or other portions of the multi-part projection. Any suitable connecting arrangements may be used, such as described above in relation to the connectable projections (Figures 7a to 7f). An example is shown in Figure 9c, where the one or more of the portions 76a, 76b, 76c may have complementary lugs and recesses, or other suitable reversible engaging formations, for attaching to other portions and/or to the rear face 7.

In another embodiment, (examples of which are shown in Figures 10, 12, 16, and 29A- 29C) there is provided an assembly 100 which comprises a body 1' and an insert 101. The assembly 100 is used similarly to the body 1 described above (e.g., in relation to Figures 2 to 5), i.e. for locating within an existing aperture 9 of a panel 3, so as to alter the geometry of the existing aperture 9 (such as changing the shape or reducing the size of the aperture).

The main difference of this embodiment is the two-part assembly, which allows for further customisation or adaptation of the invention to suit various applications (such as different panel thicknesses 10). The main difference between this assembly 100 and the body 1 as described above is that the aperture 2 to be formed in the panel 3 is defined by a side wall of the insert 101 of this assembly rather than the body 1.

Figures 10, 12, 16, and 29A- 29C show various inserts 101, engaged with various bodies 1'. The assembly may comprise a body 1' and an insert 101. The insert 101 and the body 1' may be any one of the inserts 101 or bodies 1' described in this specification.

The assembly 100 defines an aperture to be formed 2 in a panel P. The aperture to be formed 2 may be of a varied geometry (such as a reduced size or altered shape) relative to an existing aperture through a panel P.

The panel P has a thickness T defined between a first face (optionally a front face or a panel such as the internal or exposed side of a wall, floor or ceiling panel) and a second face (optionally a rear face or a panel such as the external or hidden side of a wall, floor or ceiling panel.) The panel P may have an existing aperture side wall as defined by the existing aperture and extending between the first and second faces of the panel.

Figures 30A - 30C show an assembly with an insert 101, a body 1' and an intermediate adapter 300. The intermediate adapter 300 is configured to act as an adapter to connect the body 1' to the insert 101. The intermediate adapter 300 may provide for connection between an insert 101 and a body 1' which have incompatible engagement features. For example as shown in Figure 30C an engagement feature 191' of the body 1' is a screw thread and an engagement feature 190 of the insert 101 is a set of protrusions or lugs, in this case the body 1' is not directly engageable with the insert 101. The intermediate adapter 300 may act as an adapter or coupling between the body 1' and insert 101 by providing engagement features compatible with those of the body 1 and insert 101.

The intermediate adapter may comprise a first engagement feature 301 configured to engage with the body 1'. Additionally, or alternatively, the intermediate adapter may comprise a second engagement feature 302 configured to engage with the insert 101.

Optionally, the first engagement feature 301 maybe located on an outer surface 303 of a side wall 305 of the intermediate adapter 300. Optionally, the second engagement feature 302 is located on an inner surface 304 of a side wall 305 of the intermediate adapter 300. One or both of the first and second engagement features 301, 302 may be height adjustable. The first and second engagement features 301, 302 may be any of the engagement features disclosed in this specification.

It will be appreciated that some of the features of the insert 101 could instead be part of the intermediate adapter 300. For example the intermediate adapter may comprise a reference rim 160, or a ledge 130.

Figures 16a - 19, and 31-32D show various inserts 101, for receivable engagement with a body 1'. The insert 101 comprises a front face 6. The front face 6 has at least one reference rim 16, 106. The reference rim 16, 106 comprises a rim surface 18, 108 to provide for a reference surface relative to a first face of a panel. The reference rim 16 defines at least an edge of a recessed region.

The insert may also comprise a side wall 8 extending between the front face 6 and a rear face 7. The side wall 8 comprises at least one engagement feature 191 for engagement with a corresponding feature(s) of said body 1'.

Specifically, (as may be seen more clearly in Figure 11) the body 1' comprises an inner wall 103 which defines an aperture for receiving the insert 101, an outer surface 5, and a rear face 7. The inner wall 103 of the body comprises one or more engagement features 104 for receiving and engaging the insert 101. The outer surface 5 and rear face 7 are structurally and functionally similar to the single-piece body 1 described above, and will not be described in further detail here.

In one embodiment, (as may be seen more clearly in Figures 12 and 13) insert 101 comprises an inner side wall 102 which defines the side wall of the aperture 2 to be formed, the aperture to be formed being of a reduced size or altered shape or geometry compared to the existing aperture 9 through the panel 3.

In one embodiment, the inner side wall 102 of the insert 101 may terminate as a rim 106 (or reference rim) on a front face 105 of the insert. In this respect, the insert 101 may be structurally and functionally similar to the front face 6 of the single-piece body 1 described above. In one embodiment, the reference rim 16, 106 extends from an inner side wall of the insert. The reference rim may extend from one or more of:

- the side wall of the insert,

an inwardly extending ledge of the insert,

a platform extending from an inner side wall of the insert.

The reference rim 16, 106 may extend inwardly. When the term inwardly is used in the specification it is taken to mean one or more of: radially inward, inward towards a geometric center, inward towards the middle of an aperture to be formed, or to the center of a aperture in a panel, or towards the center of a fitting of fixture when installed in the insert.

A recessed region 17, 107 may receive a material, and allow for the creation of a planar surface finish between the panel and the reference rim, and at least in part affix the insert 101 to the panel P. The settable material is one or more of: a settable material, a filler material, a concealing material, an adhesive material and/or a decorating material. The settable material may be any material that provides for a concealing adhesion or decoration. Advantageously, the material as a settable material provides for material to fill or build-up the height of the recess region, for example to a level planar with a panel. The recessed region 17, 107 may be defined at least in part by one or more of:

- the panel P

- the support surface 192 of a said body 1'

an outer surface 126 of the side wall 8 of the insert - a side wall of an aperture through the panel P to be resized an outward or outer surface of said reference rim 16, 106

Preferably, the insert 101 is detachably engaged to the inner wall 103 of the body 1' . Various methods of engaging the insert to the body may be employed. Various types of engagement features 191 are described below.

The at least one engagement feature 191 may be adjustably located relative to a said body to which the insert is to be engaged. Alternatively, or additionally, the engagement feature 191 may allow for height adjustability of the insert relative to a said body (for example as shown in Figures 16a - 20d. The engagement feature 191 may allow for the insert to be height adjustable relative to a said body to which the insert is engagable by rotation of the insert relative to said body (for example as shown in Figures 20a -20d).

The insert 101 (examples of which are shown in Figures 13, 14, and 15) may comprise cut-outs 120 on an external edge region 119. Preferably, there are the same number of cut-outs 120 (or more) as there are lugs 115. Preferably, these cut-outs 120 are shaped to be substantially complementary to the lugs 115, and sized to be equal or larger in length and width than each the lugs 115.

Accordingly, in this embodiment, to insert the insert onto the body 1', the insert is positioned each cut out 120 fitting around a lug 115. The insert 101 is then rotated such that the edge region 119 (non cut-out portions) of the insert are contacting and supported by the lugs 115.

In one embodiment shown more clearly in Figure 11, each lug 115 may comprise an end stop 116 on one side, to require uni-directional rotation of the insert into engagement with the lugs 115. With reference to Figure 11, this uni-directional insertion is anticlockwise, although it will be appreciated that a clockwise insertion direction or a linear insertion direction (which may be suitable for non-circular inserts) may also be employed.

In some embodiments, the insert may be sufficiently supported under gravity by the underlying lugs 115, when the assembly 100 is positioned on the panel 3.

Alternatively, the inner wall 103 of the body may further comprise one or more inwardly extending guide flanges 117, positioned adjacent one or more of the lugs 115 (in an overlapping or non-overlapping arrangement). This embodiment is shown more clearly in Figure 11. The guide flange 117 could be a continuous flange that extends around substantially the entire perimeter of the inner side wall 103 of the body, or the guide flange 117 could be provided in discrete sections.

For example, as shown in Figure 11, the guide flange sections 117 are positioned on/adjacent the side of each lug that does not comprise the end-stop 116. The arrangement of the guide flange 117 and the lug 115 forms a guide path 118 for guiding insertion of the insert 101 into the body 1. The guide flange 117, if provided in an overlapping relationship with the lugs 115, may additionally provide support for the insert in the opposite direction of the lugs 115.

Other arrangements for reversibly engaging the insert to the body may be provided, for example as shown in Figures 16 to 20. In this embodiment, the engagement feature 104 on the inner wall 103 of the body 1' is a screw thread 125. An outer side wall 126 of the insert 101 may comprise a complementary screw thread 127 for reversible threaded engagement with the body 1' . Figures 16a, 16b, 17, 18 and 19 show different embodiments of inserts 101 comprising screw thread formations 127 on an outer wall.

It will be appreciated that the positioning of the threaded formations may be reversed, for example the screw thread 125 on the body may be provided on an external surface of the inner wall 103, and the screw thread on the insert may be provided on an internal surface of the side wall 126 of the insert.

Additionally, it will be appreciated that this threaded engagement embodiment may allow for adjustability of the position of the insert 101 relative to the rear face 7 of the body 1'. That is, depending on how far the insert is screwed onto the body, the distance between the rim(s) 106 of the insert relative to the rear face 7 of the body can be adjusted to suit the thickness 10 of the panel 3. This is illustrated in the sequence of Figures 20a to 20d. In an embodiment, the outer side wall 126 of the insert may be between 1 and 20mm in height, and the inner wall 103 of the body 1' may be of a similar height (although these two walls need not be equal in height). In this embodiment, the distance between the rim 106 of the insert and the rear face 7 of the main body may be varied between the range of 1mm and just under 40mm (allowing for some overlap between the two walls to ensure sufficient engagement between the two components).

In preferred embodiments, the outer side wall 126 of the insert is between 5mm and 15mm in height. This would allow for a distance of between 5 mm and up to 30 mm between the rim 106 of the insert and the rear face 7 of the main body, which could accommodate up to, e.g., two layers of 13 mm plasterboard .

The screw thread of 127 of the insert is preferably formed along substantially the entire height of the side wall 126 of the insert. Similarly, the screw thread 125 of the body is also preferably formed along substantially the entire height of the side wall 103 of the body.

Various other engagement features 191 of the insert are envisaged. The engagement feature may be one or more male or female portions receivable by reciprocally shaped female or male portions of a said body. Alternatively or additionally, the engagement feature 191 may be click-tight, push-fit or snap-fit type system for engagement with the body to which said insert is receivable.

Alternatively or additionally, the engagement feature 191 comprises a frictional fit, or a tapered fit between the insert and the body to which said insert is receivable.

The step of assembling the body 1' with the insert 101 may be done before or after inserting the body 1' into the panel. In some embodiments, the insert 101 may be secured to the body 1' using adhesives (whether applied during installation, or pre- applied as strips of adhesive on one or both of the body 1' and the insert 101). In other embodiments, the engagement feature between the body 1' and the insert 101 is sufficiently tight and/or secure that no additional adhesive is required.

In some embodiments, similar to the detachable/connectable rim embodiment described in relation to single-piece body 1, the insert 101 may comprise a plurality of rims 16, 106 and associated recessed regions 17, and one or more rims (and optionally the associated recessed region(s)) may be separately connectable to or disconnectable from the insert 101. Each reference rim 16, 106 may define at least an edge of a recessed region associated with each reference rim 16, 106. Each said associated recessed region may be defined at least in part by a gap between an outward or an outer surface of an inner reference rim 16, 106 (for example any of 106, 160a, 106c and 106c), and an inward or an inner surface of a more outward reference rim 16, 106 (for example any of 106c, 106b, 106a), preferably the more outward reference rim positioned more outwardly of said inner reference rim. For example potential inward and outward references rims include: 106 and 106a, 106a and 106b, 106b and 106c.

The front face 105 may comprise one or more recessed regions 107 and associated rims 106, where the rim 106 has a rim surface 108. The rim surface(s) 108 to 108c projects from the recessed region(s) 107 so as to provide a reference surface 109, referenced relative to the first face 11 of the panel 3 when the assembly 100 is assembled and positioned in use on the panel 3.

It should be understood that the assembly 100, body 1' and insert 101 may comprise or be combined with other embodiments/features described throughout this specification. For example, the body 1' of the assembly may comprise one or more projections 50 as described previously (as shown in Figures 10, 11 and 16), or one or more multi-part projections 75, or the body may not have projections 50. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 2, the body 1 may further comprise at least one inwardly extending ledge 131 that extends from the inner surface 4 of the body. The ledge 131 is preferably recessed from the rim surface 18.

In the embodiments of the present invention that comprise an assembly 100 (i.e., comprising body 1' and insert 101), a similar inwardly extending ledge 130 may be provided that extends from the inner side wall 102 of the insert 101, as shown in Figures 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 27 and 28. Similarly, the inwardly extending ledge 130 is preferably recessed from a rim surface 108 of the insert 101.

The inwardly extending ledge 130, 131, may be a single, substantially continuous ledge around the entire perimeter of the inner wall of the body 1 or insert 101. Alternatively, the inwardly extending ledge 130, 131 could be provided as discontinuous or discrete sections, spaced from each other around the perimeter of the relevant inner wall.

The inwardly extending ledge 130, 131 is configured to support or retain a flange or other part of a fixture F, such as a lighting fixture, in use.

In preferred embodiments, the inwardly extending ledge 130, 131 is recessed from the first face 11 of the panel 3 when the body 1 or assembly 100 is located on the panel 3, such that when the fixture (e.g., lighting fixture) is assembled or inserted into the body 1 or insert 101, and retained by the ledge 130, 131, a front face of the fixture is substantially co-planar with or recessed from the first face 11 of the panel 3 and/or the rim surface 18, 108 of the body or insert respectively. This configuration provides for a substantially "trimless" or recessed fit of the fixture within the panel, and may result in a neater, more aesthetically-pleasing finish.

The ledge 130 may be configured such that the fitting or fixture F is retained so as to be flush with the reference rim 16, 106 and/or the first surface of the panel P when installed. Alternatively, the ledge 130 may be configured such that the fitting or fixture is retained in a proud or recessed configuration relative to the reference rim and/or the first surface of the panel when installed.

An example of this "trimless" fit is shown in Figure 27. The exemplary light fixture 200 has a front face 201, which is substantially co-planar with the rim 108 of the insert 101 when the light fixture is inserted into the assembly and retained by ledge 130 of the insert 101.

The aperture to be formed by the insert 101 may be substantially circular, oval or elliptical in shape. Alternatively, the aperture to be formed may be substantially rectangular, square, or quadrilateral.

In another embodiment the insert 101 may comprise at least one partition member 210. The at least one partition member 210 separates the aperture to be formed into at least two sub-apertures 211. Each sub-aperture 211 is configured to receive a fixture or fitting, or a part of a fixture or fitting.

In another embodiment there are between three and five sub-apertures 211, optionally there may be three sub-apertures 211, or two sub-apertures 211. The sub-apertures may be arranged in a substantially straight line or linear relationship, a substantially triangular relationship or in a cross relationship.

The at least one partition member may form at least part of at least one inwardly extending ledge 131 recessed from said rim 106 of the inner side wall 102 of the insert 101.

In an embodiment, the support surface 51 provided by the rear face may be substantially quadrilateral, (and optionally rectangular or square). The insert 101 may comprise a partition member 210, separating the aperture to be formed, into two quadrilateral sub- apertures 211, (optionally a rectangle or square sub-apertures.) The insert 101 may further comprises an inwardly extending ledge 131, formed at least in part by said partition member 210.

In an embodiment, the support surface 51 provided by the rear face of the body 1 may be substantially quadrilateral, (optionally a rectangle or square). The insert 101 may comprise a single aperture to be formed, the aperture to be formed being substantially quadrilateral (optionally rectangular or a square). The insert 101 may further comprise an inwardly extending ledge 131.

In some embodiments, the insert 101 may further comprise a plurality of apertures to be formed. Each of the plurality of apertures to be formed comprises an associated inner side wall 102. The inner side wall 102 terminates with at least one rim 106 on the front face of the insert 101.

Each aperture to be formed may comprise at least one inwardly extending ledge 131. The at least one inwardly extending ledge 131 may be recessed from said rim 106 of the inner side wall 102 of the insert 101.

In some embodiments the insert 101 comprises between two and five apertures to be formed. Optionally, the insert 101 may comprise three apertures to be formed.

Optionally, the insert 101 may comprise two apertures to be formed. The apertures to be formed may be arranged in a substantially straight line or linear relationship, a substantially triangular relationship or in a cross relationship.

In an embodiment, the support surface 51 provided by the rear face may be a truncated circle or oval. The perimeter of the one or more recessed region(s) 107 is/are

substantially circular or oval. The insert 101 may comprise three apertures to be formed, each aperture to be formed having an associated inner side wall, the three apertures to be formed being substantially circular, and arranged in a substantially triangular arrangement. The inner side wall 102 of each of the apertures to be formed terminates in an associated rim or rim surface 106. Each rim surface 106 may be adjacent to or coincident with the rim surfaces 106 of the other apertures to be formed.

In an embodiment, the support surface 51 provided by the rear face is substantially quadrilateral, (optionally rectangular or square.) The perimeter of the one or more recessed region(s) 107 may be substantially quadrilateral, (optionally rectangular or square). The insert 101 comprises three apertures to be formed, each aperture to be formed may have an associated inner side wall 102, the three apertures to be formed being substantially circular and arranged in a substantially linear arrangement. The inner side wall 102 of each of the apertures to be formed may terminate in an associated rim or rim surface 106. The three apertures to be formed may be substantially circular and adjacent to or coincident with at least one other rim surface of the other 2 apertures to be formed.

Figures 16a - 19, and 31-32D show various "trimless" fit embodiments. In these embodiments the insert 101 comprises at least one inwardly extending ledge 130. The at least one inwardly extending ledge 130 may be recessed from said reference rim 16, 106.

The at least one ledge 130 may extend from an inner surface of said reference rim 16, 106 of the insert 101, for example as shown in Figure 16b. Additionally or alternatively the at least one ledge 130 may extend from an inner surface 102 of the side wall. In some embodiments the ledge 130 may be substantially continuous along the entire inner surface of the reference rim 16, 106 (or inner surface 102 of the side wall) of the insert 101. The ledge 130 may extend in a plane substantially perpendicular to the inner surface of the reference rim, or the inner surface of the side wall, or in a plane parallel with the first face of the panel.

In one embodiment, the insert 101 may comprise two or more inwardly extending ledges 130, spaced around the inner surface of the reference rim (or inner surface of the side wall) of the insert.

The ledge 130 provides for a surface against which a part of a fitting or fixture F may abut. The ledge 130 allows for control of the height of the fitting or fixture within the insert. In some embodiments the ledge 130 is configured such that the fitting or fixture is retained so as to be flush with the reference rim and/or the first surface of the panel when installed. In some embodiments the ledge 130 is configured such that the fitting or fixture F is retained in a proud or recessed configuration relative to the reference rim 16, 106 when installed (for example as shown in Figure 37A in the context of a single piece body l.)In embodiments where the body 1 or the insert 101 comprises a plurality of rims 16, 106 and associated recessed regions 17, 107, in which each rim is separately connectable to or disconnectable from the body, inwardly projecting ledges 130, 131 may be provided extending from each rim-associated side wall. For example, Figure 13 illustrates two rims 106, 106a, disconnectable from each other at frangible connection 110, with each of the rim-associated side walls comprising an inwardly projecting ledge 130a, 130b extending therefrom.

Preferably, each inwardly projecting ledge is recessed from the associated rim surface 108a, 108b. Accordingly, when the appropriate rims have been disconnected as required, the remaining rim has an inwardly projection ledge to support or retain a fixture (e.g., a lighting fixture), preferably in a recessed or "trimless" manner as described above. It will be appreciated that in the "trimless" fit embodiments, alone or in combination with other features as described in this specification, may be used to mount a fitting or fixture F, such as a light fitting, speakers, furniture or fittings, ducts, piping, components of alarm or safety systems (e.g., smoke detectors, gas detectors, infrared motion detectors) or any other outlet, utility or appliance requiring an aperture through a building panel, or a wall or ceiling socket (such as for electrical outlets or indeed any other outlet requiring an aperture through a building panel).

These embodiments, comprising the inwardly projecting ledge recessed from a rim surface of the body or insert, allows for substantially flush, proud or recessed mounting of the fitting or other component into the panel, for improved aesthetics.

The shape of the aperture to be formed 2 may be of any configuration suitable for the specific fitting to be installed. For example, Figure 16b shows one embodiment of an insert 101 for defining a rectilinear aperture 2. The inwardly extending ledge 130 of the insert allows for a "trimless" fit as described above.

As shown in Figure 45 and 45B, the inner side wall 102 or the at least one ledge 130 may comprise a ramped surface 195. The ramped surface 195 may be ramped in a direction from the front face 6 of the insert 101 to the rear face 7 of the insert 101.

The ramped surface 195 may extend from or to a most inward point of said at least one ledge 130 (optionally from or to a rear face of said at least one ledge 130), or from or to an inner surface 102 of the side wall 8 of the insert 101. For example the ramp may be a fillet or chamfer. The ramped region may provide 195 for a tapering decrease of the inner diameter, or the diameter of the aperture to be formed of the insert 101.

The ramped surface may allow for easier insertion and removal of fittings or fixtures as it may guide features of the fittings or fixture during connection and disconnection of the fitting of fixture F and the insert. This is of particular importance in the context of fittings which have biased connection features, where the ramped surface may help facilitate the biasing and unbiasing of these features. As shown in figure 45C the ramped surface 195 may extend as a protrusion from the at least one ledge 130, or the side wall 102 of the insert 101.

As shown in the cross section of an insert 101 or body 1 of Figure 45D, the ramped surface 195 may comprises one or a plurality of ramped regions. Each of these ramped regions may have a different gradient. There may be one or two or more ramped regions. Figure 45D shows a ramped surface 195 comprising two ramped regions. A first ramped region 196 is located more towards the front face 6 or the insert 101 than a second ramped region 197.

The ramped surface 195 may provide for a decreasing or progressively reducing inner diameter of an aperture through or of the front face of the insert, decreasing or reducing in a direction extending from the rear face toward the front face of said insert.

Optionally, the first ramped region 196 may provide for a first tapering decrease of the inner diameter, or the diameter of the aperture to be formed of the insert, and the second ramped region 197 may additionally provide for a second tapering decrease of the inner diameter, or the diameter of the aperture to be formed of the insert.

The first tapering decrease provides for a smaller the inner diameter, or the diameter of the aperture to be formed of the insert, than that provided for by the second tapering decrease

The first ramped region 196 may have a gradient (defined with respect to the front face) that is greater than a gradient (defined with respect to the front face) of the second ramped region 197. Alternatively, the second ramped region 197 may have a gradient (defined with respect to the front face) that is greater than a gradient (defined with respect to the front face) of the first ramped region 196.

The ramped surface 195 (or a portion of the ramped surface for example 196, 197) nay have an angle of between 15 and 4 degrees, when measured with respect to an axis A, A' extending perpendicular to the front face 6 and/or the rear face 7. Optionally the ramped surface 195 (or a portion of the ramped surface for example 196, 197) may have an angle of 6 or 10 degrees, with respect to an axis extending perpendicular to the front face 6 and/or the rear face 7.

Additionally or alternatively, the outer surface 126 of the side wall 8 is ramped in a direction from the front face 6 to the rear face 7.

In some embodiments the insert 101 comprises at least one platform 139 extending inwardly from an inner surface 102 of the side wall 8 of the insert 101. Optionally the reference rim 16, 106 extends from this platform 139. Optionally, the aperture to be formed and/or the reference rim may be substantially one or more of: circular, or oval, or elliptical, or rectangular, or square, or a parallelogram or quadrilateral.

Figures 31 - 31A show an insert 101 comprising a locating feature. The locating feature providing a surface to locate at least part of a fitting or fixture inserted or located within the aperture defined by the insert. The locating feature may be a locating rim 220, having a rim surface 221. The locating rim 220 extending from a ledge 130, or platform 139, or an inner side wall of the insert, or the reference rim. The locating feature may extend to a projected height, which is the same or less that the projected height of the reference rim.

Alternatively or additionally, the locating feature may comprise a plurality of protrusions extending from a ledge 130, or platform 139, or an inner side wall of the insert, or the reference rim. The protrusions may extend inwardly and/or towards the front face of the insert. The protrusions may also be configured to be an inwardly concentric rim or set of protrusions.

The locating feature may extend from one or more of: an inner surface 102 of the side wall of the insert 101, the reference rim 16, 106 of the insert, or a or the ledge 130 extending from the side wall or reference rim of the insert 101. In the embodiments where the locating feature extends from a ledge the ledge may be located at about 50% of the height of the side wall.

As shown in Figure 30A and 30B the ledge 130 or locating rim may comprise at least one supplemental light source. The supplemental light source 230 may for example be a LED or other type of light. The supplemental light source 230 may be located on or extending through said ledge 130, said locating rim 220 or said inner surface 102 of the reference rim or side wall of insert.

The insert 101 may comprise at least one optically transparent, transmissive or display (for example a screen) portion 231. The optically transparent, transmissive or display (for example a screen) portion 231 may extend from or to one or more of: the locating feature or an inner side wall or reference rim of the insert. Optionally, between the locating feature and the inner side wall or reference. The optically transparent, transmissive or display (for example a screen) portion 231 may provide for a graphical illumination or is engraved to allow for a selective transmission or an illumination or a graphic, shape or symbol.

As shown in Figures 31 and 31A the insert may comprise one or more positioning features (for example tabs 240). The locating features as described above may comprise said positioning features, to position and/or retain and/or locate at least a part of a fitting or fixture within the insert. Optionally the positioning features allow for axial positioning and/or retention of the fitting or fixture within the insert.

The one or more positioning features may comprise at least one tab 240 extending substantially radially inward. Optionally, the positioning feature(s) may comprise 2 or more tabs 240, or between 3 and 6 tabs, or 3 tabs, or 4 tabs, extending substantially radially inward. The tabs 240 may be arranged equidistantly around the perimeter of the locating rim, or the ledge, or the side wall. The tabs 240 may be biased radially inward for engagement with a fitting or fixture F. The biasing may be achieved with a spring mechanism or other mechanisms known in the art.

In some embodiments the tab(s) may extend in one of:

a plane substantially parallel to the front face and/or the rear face

a plane extending substantially perpendicular to the front face and/or the rear face.

Alternatively or additionally, the positioning feature may comprise a screw thread for engagement with a fixture F, one or more lugs or projections for reciprocal engagement with a fixture F, and/or one or more male or female portions receivable by reciprocally shaped female or male portions of a fixture F.

Optionally, the aperture to be formed and/or reference rim 16, 106 has/have a diameter greater than a diameter of the inner side wall of the insert or a said body which receives the insert.

With reference to the body 1 of Figure 40, the insert 101 may comprise at least one partition member 210. The at least one partition member 210 separates the aperture to be formed into at least two sub-apertures 211. Each sub-aperture 211 is configured to receive a fitting or fixture, or a part of a fitting or fixture.

In another embodiment there are between three and five sub-apertures 211, optionally there may be three sub-apertures 211, or two sub-apertures 211. The sub-apertures may be arranged in a substantially straight line or linear relationship, a substantially triangular relationship or in a cross relationship.

The at least one partition member may form at least part of at least one inwardly extending ledge 131 recessed from said rim 106 of the inner side wall 102 of the body 1.

In some embodiments the insert 101 may further comprise a plurality of apertures to be formed. Each of the plurality of apertures to be formed comprises a reference rim, and/or an associated inner side wall 102. Each aperture to be formed may comprise at least one inwardly extending ledge 131. The at least one inwardly extending ledge 131 may be recessed from said rim 106 of the inner side wall 102 of the insert 101.

In some embodiments the insert 101 comprises between two and five apertures to be formed. Optionally, the insert 101 may comprise three apertures to be formed.

Optionally, the insert 101 may comprise two apertures to be formed. The apertures to be formed may be arranged in a substantially straight line or linear relationship, a substantially triangular relationship or in a cross relationship.

Figures 33- 35A show a body 1' receivable of an insert 101. The body comprises a support surface 51 for supporting the body 1' with respect to a panel P. The body 101 comprises an inner wall 103, the inner wall 103 defining an aperture for receiving the insert 101. The inner wall 103 of the body 1' may comprise at least one engagement feature(s) 191' for receiving the insert 101.

An insert 101 may be detachably engageable to the inner wall 103 of the body 1' by said engagement feature(s) 191'. The engagement feature(s) of said body may be a screw thread 127', one or more lugs or projections for reciprocal engagement with the insert 101 and/or one or more male or female portions receivable by reciprocally shaped female or male portions of the insert 101.

The at least one engagement feature 191' may be adjustably located relative to the insert 101 to which the body 1' is to be engaged. The least one engagement feature 191' may allow for height adjustability of the insert 101 relative to the body 1'. Optionally, the insert 101 is height adjustable relative to the body 1' by rotation of the insert 101 relative to the body 1'.

The at least one engagement feature 191 may be adjustably located relative to a said body to which the insert is to be engaged. The at least one engagement feature 191 may allow for height adjustability of the insert 101 relative to a said body 1'. This allows the reference rim 16, 106 and its rim surface 108 to be adjusted to be planar with a first face of a panel. As such the insert 101 may accommodate various panel thicknesses and be adjustable to allow for the panel surface to be planar with the rim surface so a

substantially flat finished surface may be provided when the recessed region is filled.

The at least one engagement feature 191 of said insert 101 may be or comprise one or more of:

a screw thread 127 (for example as shown in Figures 16A and 16B), one or more lugs 169 or projections for reciprocal engagement with a body 1' (for example as shown in Figures 14 and 15, one or more male or female portions receivable by reciprocally shaped female or male portions of a said body .

The insert 101 may be height adjustable relative to a said body 1' to which the insert is engagable by rotation of the insert 101 relative to said body 1'. Rotational motion or twisting of the insert 101 and body 1' relative to each other allows for adjustment of the height of insert.

As shown in Figures 33 - 34A the engagement feature(s) 191 may be a screw thread 127', located on the inner wall 103 of the body 1' for threaded engagement with a side wall of the insert 101. The screw thread 127' of the body may be located on an external surface, or an externally facing surface of the inner wall 103 of the body 1', and/or located on an external surface, or an externally facing surface of the inner wall 103 of the body 1'.

Alternatively or additionally, the engagement feature(s) 191 of the inner wall 103 of the body 1' comprises at least two inwardly extending lugs. For example, as shown in Figures 10, 11 and 12, the engagement feature 191 comprises at least two inwardly extending lugs 115 that support and engage the insert. The lugs 115 may contact and engage at least an external edge region 119 of the front face 105 of the insert when assembled.

One or more pairs of lugs 115 may be arranged substantially diametrically opposite each other on an inner surface of the inner wall 103 of the body 1'. Additionally or

alternatively, the lugs 115 may be spaced substantially equidistant from each other on the inner wall 103 of the body 1'. In the example shown in Figures 10, 11 and 12, four lugs 115 are provided spaced around the inner wall 103 of the body.

The body may be mountable on the second or rear face of a panel as shown in Figures 33 and 33A, or may be mountable on the first or front face of a panel as shown in Figures 34 and 34A. In the rear face embodiments at least part of the support surface 51 is configured to engage with or rest on with the second face (optionally a rear face) of the panel P. In front face embodiments at least part of the support surface 51 is configured to engage with the first face (optionally a front face) of the panel P.

The panel P may comprise a recessed region on the first face of the panel. The recessed region may receive the support surface 51 of the body 1. The recessed region may be of a depth, the same or greater than the thickness of the support surface of the body. The support surface may then be fully be recessed relative to first face of the panel. The recess may be of a depth such that a reference rim is planar with the first face of the panel.

At least part of the support surface may receive a material, the material may create a planar surface (between the reference rim and the first face of the panel) as described above, or to affix the support surface to a first face or a second face of the panel to retain the body relative to the panel and/or the aperture extending through the panel. The material may be one or more of: a settable material, a concealing material, an adhesive material and/or a decorating material.

The support surface may be substantially quadrilateral, (optionally rectangular or a square), a parallelogram, a truncated circle or oval, or substantially circular.

Figures 36 - 45 show further 'single piece' embodiments. These embodiments are similar to the assemblies as shown in Figures 29 - 29C but formed integrally as a single piece. It is envisaged that the features of any body and any insert 101 described in this specification may be combined to form an integral or single piece embodiment. It will be appreciated that the features of a body 1' and an insert 101 which facilitate the connection or engagement of the body 1' and insert 101 such as engagement features 191, 191' may be omitted when combined to form a single piece body 1.

Figures 36- 45 show a body 1 defining an at least one aperture to be formed 2 in a panel P. The panel P has a thickness T defined between a first face and a second face. The body 1 has a support surface 51 for supporting the body 1 with respect to the panel P. The body 1 may also have a side wall 8 extending between the front face 6 and a rear face 7. The front face 6 may have at least one reference rim 16, 106. The reference rim 16,106 provides for a reference surface 108 relative to the first face 11 of the panel P. The reference rim 16, 106 defines at least an edge of a recessed region.

The body 1 may have any of the features of the insert 101 and body 1' as described above, or below. Additionally, or alternatively an insert 101 or body 1' may have any of the features described in relation to the body 1. Figure 36 shows a body 1 comprising a reference rim 16, 106 on the front face 6. The support surface 51 is configured to rest on the second face 12 (optionally a rear face) of a panel P. The body 1 has an inwardly extending ledge 130 provides for a surface against which a part of a fitting or fixture F may abut.

Figures 37 - 37 B show a front mounted body 1. The support surface 51 is configured to engage a first face 11 of the panel P. The body 1 fits into a recessed region of the panel (as shown in Figure 37C). Once installed material may be provided to the recessed region 17, 107 to create a planar surface between the reference riml6, 106 and the first face of the panel. Figure 37A shows a fitting or fixture installed in the body 1. The ledge 130 abuts a surface of the fixture F such that the fixture sits flush with the first face 11 of the panel P, and/or the reference rim to create a 'trimless' finish.

Figure 38 shows a front mounted body 1. The support surface may engage the panel P in a manner as described with reference to the body 1 or Figure 37-37B or the body 1' of Figure 34. Features of the body 1 can be described with reference to the embodiment as described in relation to Figure 32A- 32D. Figure 39 shows a square shaped rear mounted body 1. The aperture to be formed 2 is circular, and the reference rim is substantially square shaped. In an embodiment as shown in Figure 39, the support surface 51 provided by the rear face may be

substantially quadrilateral, (optionally a rectangle or square). The body 1 may comprise a single aperture to be formed 2, the aperture to be formed being substantially

quadrilateral (optionally rectangular or a square). The body 1 may further comprise an inwardly extending ledge 131.

The aperture to be formed 2 by the body 1 may be substantially circular, oval or elliptical in shape, for example as shown in Figures 39 and 41 42 and 44B. Alternatively, the aperture to be formed may be substantially rectangular, square, or quadrilateral for example as shown in Figures 41 and 43.

In another embodiment as shown in figure 40 the body 1 may comprise at least one partition member 210. The at least one partition member 210 separates the aperture to be formed into at least two sub-apertures 211. Each sub-aperture 211 is configured to receive a fitting or fixture F, or a part of the fitting or fixture F.

In another embodiment there are between three and five sub-apertures 211, optionally there may be three sub-apertures 211, or two sub-apertures 211. The sub-apertures may be arranged in a substantially straight line or linear relationship, a substantially triangular relationship or in a cross relationship.

The at least one partition member may form at least part of at least one inwardly extending ledge 130, 131 recessed from said rim 106 of the inner side wall 102 of the body 1.

In an embodiment as shown in Figure 40, the support surface 51 provided by the rear face may be substantially quadrilateral, (and optionally rectangular or square). The body 1 may comprise a partition member 210, separating the aperture to be formed, into two quadrilateral sub-apertures 211, (optionally a rectangle or square sub-apertures.) The body 1 may further comprises an inwardly extending ledge 131, formed at least in part by said partition member 210.

In some embodiments (for example those shown in Figures 41 and 42) the body 1 may further comprise a plurality of apertures to be formed. Each of the plurality of apertures to be formed comprises an associated inner side wall 102. The inner side wall 102 terminates with at least one rim 156, 106 on the front face.

In an embodiment as shown in Figure 41, the support surface 51 provided by the rear face is substantially quadrilateral, (optionally rectangular or square.) The perimeter of the one or more recessed region(s) 107 may be substantially quadrilateral, (optionally rectangular or square). The body 1 comprises three apertures to be formed, each aperture to be formed may have an associated inner side wall 102, the three apertures to be formed being substantially circular and arranged in a substantially linear arrangement. The inner side wall 102 of each of the apertures to be formed may terminate in an associated rim or rim surface 106. The three apertures to be formed may be substantially circular and adjacent to or coincident with at least one other rim surface of the other 2 apertures to be formed .

Each aperture to be formed may comprise at least one inwardly extending ledge 131. The at least one inwardly extending ledge 131 may be recessed from said rim 106 of the inner side wall 102 of the body 1.

In some embodiments the body 1 comprises between two and five apertures to be formed. Optionally, the body 1 may comprise three apertures to be formed. Optionally, the body 1 may comprise two apertures to be formed . The apertures to be formed may be arranged in a substantially straight line or linear relationship, a substantially triangular relationship or in a cross relationship.

In an embodiment as shown in Figure 41, the at least one support surface 51 provided by the rear face may be a truncated circle or oval. The perimeter of the one or more recessed region(s) 107 is/are substantially circular or oval. The body 1 may comprise three apertures to be formed, each aperture to be formed having an associated inner side wall, the 3 apertures to be formed being substantially circular, and arranged in a substantially triangular arrangement. The inner side wall 102 of each of the apertures to be formed terminates in an associated rim or rim surface 106. Each rim surface 106 may be adjacent to or coincident with the rim surfaces 106 of the other apertures to be formed.

Figures 2, 16, 21 and 22 illustrate other embodiments in which the rear face of the single-piece body 1 or the body 1' of the assembly 100 is modified or modifiable into a more compact shape and/or for a better fit into an existing aperture 9 in the panel 3.

The rear face 7 of the body 1, 1' may be or comprise at least one flanged portion 21. Such a flanged portion 21 extends generally outwardly from the outer surface 5 of the body 1 or the inner wall 103 of the body 1'.

The flanged portion(s) 21 extend(s) outwardly so as to be supported upon the second face 12 around the existing aperture 9. The actual surface that contacts the panel may be the flanged portion 21 or one or more projections 50 as described previously.

In these embodiments, the rear face 7 is configured such that a width dimension 140 of the rear face is (or may be modified to be) substantially equal to or less than a largest width dimension 141 of the existing aperture 9. This would allow the body 1, 1' or the assembly 100 to be inserted into the existing aperture, by lining up the width dimension 140 of the body 1, 1' with the largest width dimension 141 of the existing aperture. It is envisaged that this embodiment would be most useful when used on circular existing apertures 9. This allows for a body 1, 1' that is easily and conveniently inserted into the aperture 9, while still ensuring that the rear face 7 sufficiently overlaps/ rests on the panel surrounding the aperture 9 to support the body 1, 1' on the panel. Accordingly, the largest width dimension 141 in the case of circular apertures is the diameter of the aperture 9, as shown in Figure 1.

To provide for this, the rear face 7 is or comprises one or more flanged portions 21, but along the width dimension 140, the rear face may be provided devoid of flanged portions (as shown in Figures 2 and 16). The rear face may comprise cut-out sections, or may be formed in the particular shape to be devoid of the flanged portions along the width dimension 140. In the examples of Figures 2 and 16, the outer perimeter of the rear face 7 is substantially circular, except for the cut-away regions along the width dimension 140, to allow the body 1, 1' to fit through an existing circular aperture 9 in the panel.

Alternatively, at the width dimension 140, the rear face 7 may have one or more disconnectable, detachable or removable flange portions (as shown in Figure 21). The removable portion(s) may be connected to the rear face via one or more regions of weakness 143, such as a manually frangible connection, so that the installer may choose whether or not to remove the portion(s) in situ or prior to installation, and according to the specific application or size of the existing aperture 9.

Alternatively, at the width dimension 140, the rear face 7 may have one or more flanged portion(s) 144 which are hingingly, pivotably or otherwise movably connected to the remaining portions of the rear face (as shown in Figure 22). The rear face may comprise hinge arrangements 142, or other hinging features such as a living hinge (not shown), connecting the flanged portions 144 with the rest of the rear face 7. Accordingly, the flanged portions 144 may be collapsed, moved or hinged inwardly to reduce the width dimension 140 to less than or equal to the maximum width dimension 141 of the existing aperture 9. Once the body 1, 1' has been inserted, the flanged portions 144 may be moved back to the unhinged position, to then rest on the second face 12 of the panel 3 around the aperture 9.

Figures 24, 25 and 26 illustrate an alternative embodiment of a body of the present invention, configured to reversibly retain a fitting, such as a light fitting 164 (or any other fitting) onto a panel, within the new aperture formed by the body.

The body 1" comprises a bayonet-like connector to releasably engage the fitting 164. In the exemplary embodiment as shown in Figures 24 and 25, the inner surface 4 of the body 1" comprises at least one hinging arm 160, the arm being connected to the body such that it is hingingly movable in a direction towards the outer surface 5 of the body, in order to reversibly accommodate and engage a part of the fitting 164, when it is inserted into the body.

As seen more clearly in Figure 25, the inner surface 4 of the body 1" further comprises a guiding feature 161 adjacent the hinging arm 160. The guiding feature guides movement of the light fitting 164 into engagement with the hinging arm 160, by guiding a lug or other engaging feature on the light fitting (described in more detail below).

In one embodiment, the hinging arm 160 is formed by supporting a portion of the inner surface 4 at a location that is spaced from a free end of the arm, such as at hinge 162. In this embodiment, the pivot axis of the hinging arm 160 is substantially parallel to the direction extending from the rear face to the front face of the body. It will be

appreciated that other methods of forming a hinging arm, whether integrally formed or post-formed (for example by cutting slots in the inner surface 4 to form the free end of the arm), may be considered. For example, a living hinge may be provided by thinning a portion of the inner side wall at the hinge area.

Preferably, the hinging arm 160 is biased against movement towards the outer surface of the body. This biasing may be provided by the stiffness of the material, or other biasing means such as springs, etc. Accordingly, hinging arm preferably provides resistance against movement in the outward direction, to thereby retain the light fitting when engaged.

Further mating or retaining features may be provided at the free end of the hinging arm, for example protrusion 163 that will engage with a complementary recess 165 on the light fitting 164. Alternatively, a protrusion may instead be provided on the light fitting 164 and a complementary recess provided on the hinging arm 160 of the body 1".

Preferably, the light fitting 164 and body 1" are connected together via the bayonet type mount by inserting the light fitting 164 (in a first direction, generally parallel to the to the direction extending from the rear face to the front face of the body), such that a specific portion of the fitting engages with the guiding feature 161 of the body 1". The light fitting is then moved relative to the body (in a second direction, generally perpendicular to the first direction), while being guided by guiding feature 161. In the preferred embodiment, the light fitting is rotated relative to the body along the guide feature until the specific portion of the light fitting engages with the hinging arm 160, pushing it outwards during this engagement. At the end of the movement, the hinging arm reverts back to the unbiased state to engage the light fitting 164. This may, for example, be due to protrusion 163 entering the recess 165.

In one example, as shown in the Figure 25, the guiding feature comprises a channel 167 that receives and guides a lug 169 on the specific portion of the lighting feature 164. The guiding feature 161 may also comprise an end stop 168 that abuts against the lug 169 and prevents further movement of the light fitting relative to the body at the end of the required movement.

As shown in Figure 25, the body 1" preferably comprises at least two hinging arms, 160a, 160b that may be positioned substantially diametrically opposite each other on the inner surface 4 of the body 1". Accordingly, the light fitting also preferably has two portions on diametrically opposite sides, comprising lugs or other complementary mating structures, which are configured to engage and be retained by the hinging arms.

An exemplary assembly, comprising a light fitting 164 detachably mounted within a body 1" is shown more clearly in Figure 24. In operation, the portion 170 of the light fitting 164 is inserted into the body, such that the lug 169 of the portion 170 is inserted into the guiding feature 161 of the body. The light fitting is then guided (in a rotational movement) so that the lug is moved towards the hinging arm 160. The portion 170 pushes against the hinging arm 160, such that the arm moves outwards (i.e., in a direction towards the outer surface 5 of the body) in order to accommodate the portion 170. Subsequently, the retaining protrusion 163 on the hinging arm is received in the recess 165 of the light fitting 164, and the arm 160 moves back into its original position, to thereby retain the light fitting.

In order to remove the light fitting 164 from the body 1", the movement is generally reversed. Preferably, a small amount of force is required to move the retaining protrusion 163 of the arm 160 out of the recess 165 of the light fitting, by rotating the light fitting and pushing the hinging arm outwards. The light fitting 164 may then be removed from the body (by moving the light fitting in reverse directions to the first and second directions along the guiding feature 161 and out of the body respectively).

Figure 26 shows an exemplary embodiment of a light fitting 164 in isolation. In this example, the light fitting 164 is an LED light fitting, that has been modified in order to be reversibly engaged with the body 1".

Typical LED light fittings comprise springs on diametrically opposite sides of the body, which are moved inwards during insertion of the light fitting into the light socket, which then spring back outwards in order to retain the light fitting within the socket. One disadvantage of this configuration is that it is difficult to remove the light fitting from the socket once installed, as it is difficult to access the spring engagement of the light fitting, and/or move them against their bias in order to remove the light fitting from the socket. Accordingly, the bayonet type mounting provided by the present embodiment improves the ease and convenience of inserting and removing a light fitting into a socket/aperture provided by the body 1" of the present invention.

In some embodiments, a standard LED light fitting may be modified by removing the original retaining springs, and attaching adaptor(s) 170 onto the outer surface of the light fitting. The adaptor(s) may be mounted onto the light fitting via any suitable fastening means, for example screws 171. Alternatively, light fittings or other fittings to be installed into the body 1" may be formed integrally during manufacture with the required structures (e.g . lug 169, recess 165) .

It will be appreciated that variations to illustrated example of the bayonet type

connection may be contemplated. Preferably, however, the light fitting is provided with a lug (or other type of male connector) and the body 1" is provided with complementary slots or female connector portions to receive the lug. The lug is inserted within the slot and engaged at an end, preferably via a resilient connection in order to securely retain the light fitting.

It should be appreciated that this embodiment may further include other feature(s) as described relating to other embodiments. For example, instead of a single-piece body as illustrated in Figures 24 to 26, the bayonet-type connection could be applied to an assembly comprising a body 1' and insert 101', as discussed above and illustrated in e.g., Figures 10, 12, and 16. That is, the structures such as the guiding feature 161 and the hinging arm 160 may be provided to an inner side wall of the insert 101.

It will be appreciated the rim 16 with a rim surface 18 can be gauged so as to project relative to the first face of a panel a pre-determined distance.

In certain forms, the recessed region 17 may be additionally provided with one or more surface reliefs or perforations or undulations or an undulating surface. Such surface relief or perforations or undulations or an undulating surface may provide for additional surface area upon which a material can be applied upon. In some examples, the recessed surface 17 is textured so as to provide for a surface more capable of being engaged by a material applied upon it, such texturing may contribute to the undulations, or may itself be the undulations. Generally however, the surface of the recessed region 17 is a material engaging surface, or a surface upon which material is to be applied.

The surface relief may comprises of perforations, and may comprises slits or slots through the front face or other surfaces, such as the outer surface or inner surface (or combinations of one or more of these), either partially formed (for example, more an as an indentation) into the material of the body, or as a complete cut-out or portion of the body which is devoid of material forming the body (for example, more as a perforation). In this manner, surfaces can be provided with various surface relief patterns or indentations or perforations for improving or providing additional surface area for a mechanical connection of any material such as plaster or adhesives or other finishing or intermediate materials to be engaged or become connected with the body.

With reference to any of the embodiments shown and described, application of material to the recessed region 17, 107 of the body or insert allows for the surface to be built up so as to be level with the rim surface 18, 108. In this manner, the rim surface 18, 108 provides a reference surface or level to which the recessed region 17, 107 is to be levelled up to by material in-filling the recess. See for example Figure 23, as well as the enlarged portion view of Figure 23, in which a material 28 has been applied in sufficient amount so as to in-fill or build up the level of the recessed region 17 to be substantially level or planar with the rim surface 18. It will be seen that the rim surface 18, 108 provides a reference 19, 109 upon which an user or installer of the body 1 or assembly 100, or another user may apply material 28 to the body or assembly so as to reach a pre-determined reference height of material build up. The reference level 19, 109 may advantageously be provided so as to be at the same or a similar level to either the surface of the front face 11 of the panel 3, or may be to the same or a similar level to a finished level of the front face 11, for example a finished level may be one which has had plaster or paints applied thereto.

Further, Figure 12 will assist with an understanding that the rear surface 7 of the body 1, l'may rest or be placed or located upon the second face 12 of the panel 3. In this manner, an adhesive or bonding agent may have been applied to the rear surface 7, or perhaps upon the second face 12 itself in preparation of receiving the rear face. Once located, the rear face can support or assist to locate the remainder of the body 1, 1' into a suitable position with respect to the front face and the existing aperture.

In respect of the rim surface 18, 108 a material 28 can be applied thereupon. Where a material is applied to the rim surface, the recessed region 17, 107 can be built up further. In this way, the recessed region 17, 107 has material applied in a sufficient quantity so as to be level or planar with the material applied upon the rim surface.

The material(s) 28 which can be applied to the front face can be applied as a singular or compound composition(s), in a single or multiple layers. Such materials may be one or a combination of any one of the following materials; although it will be appreciated any such appliable building material may be applied : a levelling material(s), a filling material(s), a jointing compound, a concealing material(s), a finishing material(s).

Examples of such materials include, plaster or fibrous plaster compounds, such as those which are gypsum containing, silicon sealing compound, paints, other filler materials or finishing products.

The front face 6 should receive sufficient material so as to be substantially levelled with the first face 11 of the panel 3 according to the needs of the user, or to match the level or finish of the first face of the panel. For example, if a first face of the panel 3 is finished in paint, then suitable concealing or filling materials should be applied to the front face in order to achieve a front face that is substantially level or planar with the surrounding panel front face, the front face with material applied thereto can then be finished appropriately, for example with a paint. In one example, the body 1 may be of a castellated form. The body 1 may be formed by a series of castellated surfaces which are each provided as contiguous surfaces of the body, each of the castellations providing for surfaces of the respective inner surface, outer surface, front face and the rear face, each of these surfaces performing their functions as described above.

When the body 1 or assembly 100 is provided in-situ in an existing aperture 9 of the panel 3, the rear face 7 of the body 1, 1' is positioned to be located upon the second face 12 of the panel in a manner to support the body 1, 1'. In this way, a user may extend the body 1, 1' or assembly 100 or sections of the body through the existing aperture in the panel 3, and position the body 1, 1' so that the rear 7 is located upon the second face 12. Accordingly, the body 1, 1' or at least the section of the body which has just been located is self-supported or positioned within the existing aperture and by the second face 12.

In particular, the body 1, 1' can be self-supporting when the rear face 7 is located upon the second face in the situation where the existing aperture is a through-hole of a ceiling panel, the first face of the ceiling panel being the painted or finished surface within a room or building, and the second face of the ceiling panel being the side of the panel which is in the ceiling space. In this embodiment, the front face of the body 1 is therefore a surface of the body which is exposed for viewing by inhabitants of a building, and therefore is typically finished with paints or other surface finishing materials.

In an alternative embodiment, the existing aperture may be a through-hole of a wall panel. In this form, the rear face 7 provides for a support which is to engage with the second face of the wall panel so as to locate the body 1, 1' or at least sections of the body in position.

According to this invention, the front face 6 can be dimensioned so as to provide a width as necessary to achieve a pre-determined alteration of the size of the existing aperture. By varying the width of the front face 6, a body 1, 1' can be used to have the same external shape or dimension or size as necessary to engage with the existing aperture through a panel, yet the inner surface can provide for an aperture size according to a user's needs.

For example, the size of an aperture through a ceiling panel for traditional incandescent lighting fixtures typically requires an aperture size to be larger than that say for a halogen lighting fixture, or for a light emitting diode (LED) lighting fixture, or as may be contemplated by this invention, any other device or fixture or fitting which requires a reduced aperture size through a panel compared to the existing aperture already so formed. In another example, the size of an aperture through a wall panel may need to be reduced, such as where a conduit of a certain size extending through the wall is to be replaced by a reduced diameter conduit. In this way, the size of the aperture in the wall panel needs to be reduced so that a close fitting of the wall about the new (replacement) conduit is to be achieved and a finished surface of the wall panel is to be provided.

It will also be appreciated this invention may have particular application to yet other panels, such as building panels, where an aperture so formed needs to be reduced in size, yet a suitable finishing is to be provided about the newly reduced aperture and to the surrounding surface of the panel having the reduced aperture. Concealing, filling, finishing or other materials can be applied to the front face of the body 1 so that the joint between the body 1 and the surrounding surface of the front face of the panel is formed and finished, or made commensurate with the finish or a desired finish of the front face of the panel.

Yet further, body 1 or 1' can be formed by bring together one or more components, such as the pair of halves 150, 151 (as shown more clearly in Figures 3 and 5). Each of the components may be inter-connectable with each other so as to form the body 1.

Each of the components, such as 150, 151, can individually define at least a partial section of the body 1.

The components, such as 150, 151, may include at least one inter-connect region 152 for connection or co-location with an adjacent component.

The inter-connect region 152 or inter-connection may be a hinged joint. Although a single hinged joint is shown in Figure 5, the body 1, 1' may comprises of additional interconnection regions as necessary, and depending on the number of components to which the body 1, 1' is to be formed.

Where a hinged joint or other bendable joint is provided, this may facilitate the body 1, 1' to be collapsed in on itself so as to allow a use to then insert the body 1, 1' into an existing aperture, and the joint may have a degree of elasticity to help the body 1, 1' then re-form itself and assume the shape for being an insert into the exiting aperture.

As shown in Figure 5, a cut-out section 153 may be provided without any inter- connection region 152. In this way, the body 1, 1' may also be subject to a user applying torsional twist to help bend the body, in addition to bending at the hinge point, so enable to body 1, 1' to assume a shape which allows insertion into an existing aperture. In one form, inter-connection of components may be via a male part of one component to be received by a female part of another component. Alternatively, inter-connection may be by use of an adhesive or a bonding agent applied to an inter-connection region. The inter-connection can be, or provide for, co-location of a part of one component with a part of another component. In use, the one or more components can be co-locatable with each other when positioned within the existing aperture, thereby together forming the body 1, 1'.

The aperture 2 defined by the body 1 or insert 101 can be of any shape. Various examples include circular, oval or elongated shapes, rectilinear, square, and rectangular or other geometric shapes. For example, Figure 16b illustrates an exemplary

embodiment of an insert for defining a rectilinear aperture 2. It will be appreciated the outer surface may be of any necessary shape so as to substantially align with the side walls 13 of the existing aperture 9, whist the inner surface and its side wall 4, 102 are used to define aperture 2 which is a desired aperture size and shape of a user or installer or for a particular application, installation or use.

The body 1, 1' or insert lOlis/are a pre-form. In this manner, the front face of the body can be build up upon by application of materials in order to provide for a concealed joint between the body 1, 1' and surrounding first face of the panel 3 when in-situ.

The rim surface 18, 108 of the body 1 or the insert 101 provide for a reference surface upon which a user may base levelling or application of material. Additionally, as the body 1, 1' and insert 101 can be pre-forms, these components provide a platform upon which a user may apply material to achieve a final desired surface or finish.

The body 1, 1' and/or insert 101 can be formed in any manner. However preferred may be casting or moulding, such as injection moulding or extrusion moulding, depending on the shape of the body 1, 1' and insert 101 to be achieved.

Various individual or combinations or compound materials may be used to form the body 1, 1' and/or insert 101. The material to use will depend on the specific application or use. Examples of materials comprise one or more of: polymers such as PE, PP, PET, metals such as stainless steel, aluminium, and fibrous plasters such as compositions comprising gypsum, polymers, metals, compositions comprising fibrous reinforcement, including cementitious fibre reinforced materials, fibre-glass materials.

It will also be appreciated sections or parts or portions of the body 1, 1' and/or insert 101 may be formed of a combination or materials, for example where a channel is provided on the inner surface, such a channel may need to provide particular structural characteristics suitable for repeated wear and tear, for example where a unit being inserted or removed from the aperture formed by the body, such as a light fitting of fixture, is to be engaged. In one example, the channel may be a metal or suitable strength polymer provided as a component of the pre-form.

Yet further, it may be desirable for the body 1, 1' and/or insert 101 to achieve certain desired characteristics in terms of structural strength, fire or chemical resistance or ability to retard fire. For example, components or compounds may be included in the body or the body so formed to achieve: electrical conductivity, anti-static properties, electrically insulation, fire resistance or fire retarding capabilities, or even fire self- extinguishing properties.

Where reference in this specification is made to a "panel", such a panel may include building panels, such as ceiling panels or wall panels. In certain typical applications, panel may be a building panel of fibrous plaster comprising gypsum.

As described above, adhesive or other bonding agents may be utilised to assist or provide for engagement or inter-connection the body 1, 1' and surfaces of the panel 3. In these situations, an adhesive may be pre-applied or provided upon surface of the body 1, 1' which is to become engaged or inter-connected, such as a support surface 51 defined by a projection 50 as described above. The adhesive or bonding agent may have a removal backing, such as a paper or sheet, which once removed exposes the adhesive or bonding agent for use.

In various embodiments, the adhesive or bonding agent may be curable by exposure to the surface which it is desired to come into contact with. Alternatively, another means may be used to facilitate curing - such as heat source, for example infra-red, or another energy source, for example ultra-sound, to excite the adhesive and set-off the curing process.

Bearing in mind the above, the body 1 or assembly 100 may be installed in an existing aperture to reduce the size of that aperture. The body 1 or insert 101 of the assembly themselves define an aperture about their inner surface. Typically, the body 1 or assembly 100 of this invention may be installed according to the steps of:

positioning the body 1 or 1' within the existing aperture,

securing the body into position by locating the outer side wall into an engaging position with the existing aperture side wall and the rear face into an engaging position with the panel by locating the rear face upon a region of the second face of the panel surrounding the existing aperture,

concealing the joint between the body and the first face of the panel.

With reference to the assembly 100, in some embodiments, the body 1' and insert 101 may be assembled together prior to inserting into the existing aperture. In other embodiments, the body 1' may first be positioned within the existing aperture, and the insert 101 subsequently inserted into the body to complete the assembly 100.

As mentioned above, an adhesive can be applied to the outer side wall of the body or the rear face, or both, such that upon installation the applied adhesive comes into contact with and becomes engaged or bonded with surfaces of the panel. The adhesive is either passively or actively activated to cure and adhere to the panel so as to secure the body 1, 1' in position.

The concealing step allows for application of a sufficient amount of the one or more materials as discussed above. Application of the material is performed by a user until the front face is made level with the first face of the panel.

Sufficient amounts of material, such as plaster or similar materials, can be applied at joint regions of the body 1, 1' and the building panel 3, then allowing the material, such as plaster to settle, and then polishing the material, such as sanding of plaster or similar material, to achieve a finished surface, optionally with a further final finishing material, such as a paint, applied.

Various tapes, such as a jointing tape, may be optionally applied about joint regions between the front face and the first face of the panel, although the present invention may allow a user to wholly negate the use of such an additional joint concealing material.

The foregoing description of the invention includes preferred forms thereof. Modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the invention.