AU2009200627A1 - Improved framework for a building - Google Patents

Description

Regulation 3.2 AUSTRALIA Patents Act 1990 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION STANDARD PATENT Application No.: Application Date: 20 February 2009 Priority Dates 21 February 2009 (New Zealand Patent Application No. 566143) Applicants: Spanbild New Zealand Limited 112 Waterloo Road Sockbum Christchurch NEW ZEALAND Address for Service: ELLiS j VERBOEKET TERRY ci- PO Box 202 Hurstville BC New South Wales 1481 AUSTRALIA Complete Specification for the invention entitled: "IMPROVED FRAMEWORK FOR A BUILDING' The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me: 1 IMPROVED FRAMEWORK FOR A BUILDING Field of Invention 5 The present invention relates to structural frameworks for buildings or other enclosures, particularly kit-set buildings such as kit-set sheds, for example. Summary of Invention 10 In a first aspect the invention provides a building framework including. a plurality of building framework members; a plurality of joining arrangements for joining an end of one framework member to a side portion of another framework member, each joining arrangement including: an end cap configured to be secured to an end of one framework member; 1 a connector configured to pass laterally through the other framework member and to engage with the end cap to secure the one framework member to the other framework member. Preferably the building framework members are tubular metal members. More 20 preferably the building framework members are formed from galvanised steel. Preferably at least some of the joining arrangements include a fitting having a first surface shaped to conform with the surface of said other framework member and a second surface positioned to contact the end cap in an assembled join, each fitting 25 having a hole formed therein to allow the connector to pass through the fitting. Preferably the framework members are circular or elliptical in cross-section and each fitting includes a curved cut-out matching the circular or elliptical surface of the framework members. Preferably each fitting includes a boss positioned and 30 dimensioned to engage with a recess in the corresponding end cap.

2 Preferably each end-fitting includes a nut and the connector engages with the nut. Preferably at least some of the connectors are double ended such that they are configured to engage with a first end cap to join a first framework member to a side s portion of a second framework member, to extend through the second framework member and to engage with a second end cap to join a third framework member to an opposing side portion of the second framework member. The invention also provides a building incorporating a framework according to the first 10 aspect described above. In a second aspect the invention provides a building framework kitset of parts including: a plurality of building framework members; a plurality of end caps, each configured to be secured to an end of a framework 15 member; a plurality of connectors, each configured to pass laterally through a framework member and to engage with an end cap secured to an end of another framework member, thereby joining those framework members. 20 Preferably the kitset of parts also includes a plurality of fittings each having a first surface shaped to conform with the surface of a framework member and a second surface positioned to contact an end cap in an assembled join, each fitting having a hole formed therein to allow a connector to pass through the fitting. 2 Preferably the building framework members are tubular metal members. In a third aspect the present invention provides a framework for a building, the framework including a plurality of prime members connected to cross-members by joints, characterized in that all or most of the joints between each prime member and 30 each cross-member consist of a joint between one end of one of the members and a side 3 of the other of the members, wherein an end cap is secured to said one end and a connector is passed through said side, to engage with said end cap. Preferably the prime members and the cross-members are metal tubes. More preferably, 5 the prime members and the cross-members are constructed of galvanised steel tube. The tubes may be of any cross-sectional shape, e.g. circular, square. The framework may also include fittings adapted to fit closely around said side at each joint, so that a connector passes through the fitting. 10 The framework may further include top members and/or spacer members to define the shape of the building. The present invention further provides a kitset of parts for a building, said kitset is including a plurality of metal tubes, end caps, fittings and connectors. The present invention further provides a building incorporating a framework as described above for each of the sides, rear and front, of the building. 20 Preferably, the roof also is a framework as described above. Brief Description of Drawings By way of example only, a preferred embodiment of the present invention is described 25 in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of the framework of a building; Figure 2 is an exploded horizontal cross-section of the fitting system; Figure 2a is an exploded horizontal cross-section of a variant of the fitting system. Figure 3 is a schematic isometric view of the prime member fitting; 3o Figure 4 is a schematic isometric view of the end cap; 4 Figure 5 is a side view of a side wall of the building; Figure 6 is a side view of a front wall of the building; and Figure 7 is a side view of the top of the building. 6 Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiment A preferred embodiment provides a shed, which has been engineered to cope with the maximum wind and snow loadings prescribed by New Zealand Building Codes for use in high country conditions. 10 A framework 130 for the shed (shown in Figure 1) may include two side panels 131, a rear panel 132, a front panel 133 and a roof panel 134. Each panel may be formed from a combination of framework members (cross-members 103 and prime members 102), connected together with joining arrangements, as described below. 1I The prime members and the cross-members may be tubes of any suitable material, preferably metal. The tubes may be of any cross-sectional shape, e.g. circular, elliptical, square. Preferably the prime members and the cross-members are constructed of galvanised steel. 20 Each cross-member 103 is slightly shorter than the distance between two of the prime members 102 and is secured at each end to the adjacent prime member 102 by the use of a joining arrangement. In the embodiment shown, the joining arrangement includes an end cap 105, a fitting 109, and a connector in the form of a bolt 107 which passes 25 laterally through the prime member 102, specifically through a hole 120. Figure 2 shows a prime member 102 with a cross-member 103 secured to each side of the prime member. Thus, the ends of the cross-members 103 are joined to opposing side portions of the prime member 102. For clarity a gap is shown between the fitting 109 5 and each end cap 105. However, when assembled surface 112 of the fitting 109 and surface 113 of the end cap 105- are preferably in contact. As shown in detail in Figures 3 and 4, an end cap 105 consists of a circular portion 104 5 which contains a central hub 121 and is substantially hollow and supported by structural ridges 122. The external diameter of the circular portion 104 is slightly smaller than the internal diameter of the cross-member 103. On one side of the end cap 105 is a flange 106 whose outer diameter is greater than the internal diameter of the cross-member 103, preferably the same as or slightly greater than the outside diameter 10 of the cross-member 103. That side of the end cap 105 is a substantially planar surface 113, with a central recess 115 (shown in dashed line in Figure 4). A central hole 116 passes through the end cap 105. A nut 117 (see Figure 2) is fixed in central hub 121 so that its axis is co-linear with central hole 116. 15 The outer diameter of fitting 109 is preferably the same as the outer diameter of the cross-member 103, or may be the same as the diameter of the end cap flange 106 if that flange has a different diameter. Fitting 109 has a central hub 123 supported by structural ridges 124, providing an intermittent supporting surface 112, from which projects a boss 114 corresponding in position, shape and size with the recess 115 on 20 end cap 105. On the side of the fitting 109 opposite to the boss 114, a segment cut out 110 substantially matches the curvature of prime member 102. A central hole 108 passes through the entire fitting 109. Where the framework members are of square or rectangular cross-section, it may be that 25 the end cap can sit directly against the flat surface of the framework member without the need for such a fitting. in order to assemble the framework, the circular portion 104 of end cap 105 is push fitted into the end 125 of cross-member 103 so that the end of the cross-member 103 is 30 adjacent the flange 106 around the outer rim of the end cap 105. The end cap 105 is 6 preferably secured to the cross-member 103 by inserting rivets (not shown) through the cross-member 103 and the circular portion 104 of the end cap 105, between the structural ridges 122. Other forms of fastener may also be suitable. 5 A hole 120 is drilled right through the prime member 102 at the level at' which the cross-members 103 are to be secured to the prime member 102. Fitting 109 is placed against the prime member 102 so that the central hole 108 in the fitting 109 lines up with the hole 120 in the prime member 102 and the cut-out 110 lines up with the surface of the prime member 102. The segment cut-out 110 enables the fitting 109 to 10 lie on the surface of prime member 102. The surface 113 of end cap 105 rests against the surface 112 of fitting 109 so that the boss 114 on fitting 109 is fitted into recess 115 on the end cap 105. A double-ended bolt 107 passes through hole 120 in the prime member 102 and hole 108 in fitting 109 1 and enters the central hole 116 in end cap 105 to screw into nut 117. To secure the cross-members to the prime members, one end of the first cross-member has its end cap 105 secured to it as described above, and two fittings 109 are positioned, one each side of the prime member 102. A bolt 107 is then passed through 20 the hole 120 in the prime member 102, through the centre hole 108 of each fitting 109, and then through the central hole 116 of the end cap 105 and screwed into nut 117. The end cap for the end of the cross-member on the opposite side of the post is then screwed onto the other end of the bolt 107, and that second end cap is then pushed into the corresponding end of the next rail and riveted in place as described above. This 25 sequence is repeated around the whole framework until the framework is completed. At positions where only a single cross-member is to be secured to a prime member, a fitting of the type shown in Figure 2a is used:- this is simply a single sided version of the fitting shown in Figure 2; all identical components are given the same reference 30 numerals. in the arrangement shown in Figure 2a, the bolt 107a is single ended rather 7 than double ended. In this variant, the end cap 105 is secured to the end of the cross member 103, the bolt 107a is passed through the hole 120 in the prime member 102, through the hole 108 of the fitting 109, through the central hole 116 of the end cap 105 and screwed into nut 117. When the fitting is fully secured, the head 150 of the bolt 5 10 7 a rests tight against the side of the prime member 102. This type of connection is used at all positions where only a single ended connection is required between a cross member and a prime member. A side panel 131, as shown in Figure 5, may include prime side members 135, side 10 cross-members 136 and a side top bar 137. Both ends of each side cross-member 136 are fitted with end caps 105 and connected to the prime side members 135 via fittings 109 and bolts 107, in the manner described above with reference to Figure 2. The top of each side prime member 135 is fitted with an end cap 105, and side top bar 137 is fitted with corresponding fittings 109 to connect the side top bar 137 to each 15 of the side prime members 135, as described with reference to Figure 2a. Optionally, a foundation pipe 151 may be secured across the lower ends of each of the prime side members 135, as shown in Figure 5. This foundation pipe 151 reinforces the lower edge of the side panel and simplifies erection of the shed, since it is necessary 20 simply to anchor the ends of the foundation pipe 151 to a foundation or pile, rather than supporting the ends of each of the prime side members 135 to a foundation or pile. As shown in Figure 7, a series of graded spacer members 138, fitted at each end with end caps 105, are fitted above side top bar 137 using further fittings 109. Preferably, the 25 spacer members 138 are positioned directly above prime side members 135 so that weight on the spacers is transferred directly down into the prime side members 135. Additionally, this allows for a single double-ended bolt 107 to be used to secure a prime side member 135, side top bar 137 and spacer member 138 together.

8 Rear panel 132 is of the same configuration as side panels 131, but may be of different dimensions, and is not fitted with spacing members. Front panel 133 (shown in Figure 6) includes prime front members 139, a front cross 5 member 141 and front vertical members 140. Front cross-member 141 is fitted with end caps 105 at each end and secured between prime front members 139 by use of fittings 109 as described with reference to Figure 2a. Prime front members 139 and cross-member 141 thus define an archway, which will form an entrance to the building. Front vertical members 140 are fitted with end caps 105 at each end and are secured 10 above front cross-member 141 by the use of fittings 109. Prime front members 139 are also fitted with end caps 105 at the top. Once side panels 131, rear panel 132 and front panel 133 have been completed, they can be erected on the building site and secured to the foundation by standard methods, is such as L-brackets. The panels are secured to each other by standard means such as U plates or bolts to form a regular upright frame. Alternatively panels may be connected to each other using connections such as those shown in Figure 2A. Returning to Figure 1, roof panel 134 includes prime roof members 142, roof cross 2o members 143 and a roof front member 144. The roof cross-members 143 are fitted at each end with end caps 105 and secured between the prime roof members 142 by the use of fittings 109 and bolts 107. Prime roof members 142 are fitted with end caps 105 at a front end 145, which is connected to roof front member 144 by the use of fittings 109 and bolts 107. 25 Roof panel 134 is placed on top of the other panels. Roof front member 144 is secured to front vertical members 140 and to the tops of the prime front members 139, using fittings 109. The prime roof members 142 are secured to the spacer members 138 by the use of fittings 109. The rear end 146 of prime roof members 142 is secured to the top of so rear panel 132. The grade of spacer members 138 defines the grade of the roof 9 panel 134. Preferably the grade is at least 30, to allow for sufficient run-off of precipitation. Once the framework 130 has been completed, cladding can be fitted to the a framework 130. The cladding should be a material that will protect the framework 130 from the elements, such as long run iron. Board cladding can be used, if it meets the local building regulations. The archway in front panel 133 becomes the entrance to the shed, and may optionally be fitted with a door. Interior cladding may optionally be fitted. 10 It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the system described herein can be adapted for use in buildings of different sizes and shapes, or used for only parts of buildings. For example, the roof could be made using different materials and techniques, and fitted to the top of an open-topped framework. Windows can be added Is in the space defined by the prime members and cross-members, or the side, rear or front panels can be designed to define a space for doors or larger windows. These and other variations are intended to be included within the scope of this patent. It will be appreciated that the fittings described with reference to Figures 2-4 inclusive 20 are for use with circular cross-section members. If members of different cross-section are used (e.g. rectangular, square, oval), then the corresponding surfaces of the fittings, (i.e. end cap 105 and fitting 109) are varied to match. While the present invention has been illustrated by the description of the embodiments 25 thereof, and while the embodiments have been described in detail, it is not the intention of the Applicant to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details, representative apparatus and methods, and illustrative examples shown and 10 described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departure from the spirit or scope of the Applicant's general inventive concept.

Claims (18)

1. A building framework including: i. a plurality of building framework members; 6 ii. a plurality of joining arrangements for joining an end of one framework member to a side portion of another framework member, each joining arrangement including: a. an end cap configured to be secured to an end of one framework member; b. a connector configured to pass laterally through the other framework 10 member and to engage with the end cap to secure the one framework member to the other framework member.

2. A building framework as claimed in claim 1 wherein the building framework members are tubular metal members. 15

3. A building framework as claimed in claim 1 or 2 wherein the building framework members are formed from galvanised steel.

4. A building framework as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein at least some of zo the joining arrangements include a fitting having a first surface shaped to substantially match the surface of said other framework member and a second surface positioned to contact the end cap in an assembled join, each fitting having a hole formed therein to allow the connector to pass through the fitting. 25 5. A building framework as claimed in claim 4 wherein the framework members are circular or elliptical in cross-section and each fitting includes a curved cut-out substantially matching the circular or elliptical surface of the framework members.

6. A building framework as claimed in claim 4 or 5 wherein each fitting includes a boss 30 positioned and dimensioned to engage with a recess in the corresponding end cap. 12

7. A building framework as claimed in any preceding claim wherein each end-fitting includes a nut and the connector engages with the nut. 5 8. A building framework as claimed in any preceding claim wherein at least some of the connectors are double ended such that they are configured to engage with a first end cap to join a first framework member to a side portion of a second framework member, to extend through the second framework member and to engage with a second end cap to join a third framework member to an opposing side portion of the 10 second framework member.

9. A building including a framework as claimed in any preceding claim.

10. A building framework kitset of parts including: 15 i. a plurality of building framework members; ii. a plurality of end caps, each configured to be secured to an end of a framework member; iii. a plurality of connectors, each configured to pass laterally through a framework member and to engage with an end cap secured to an end of another framework 20 member, thereby joining those framework members. lE.A building framework kitset of parts as claimed in claim 10 including a plurality of fittings each having a first surface shaped to conform with the surface of a framework member and a second surface positioned to contact an end cap in an assembled 25 join, each fitting having a hole formed therein to allow a connector to pass through the fitting.

12.A building framework kitset of parts as claimed in claim 10 or II wherein the building framework members are tubular metal members. 30 13

13.A building framework system substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

14.A framework for a building, the framework including a plurality of prime members s connected to cross-members by joints, characterized in that all or most of the joints between each prime member and each cross-member consist of a joint between one end of one of the members and a side of the other of the members, wherein an end cap is secured to said one end and a connector is passed through said side, to engage with said end cap. 10

15.A framework as claimed in claim 14 wherein the prime members and the cross members are metal tubes.

16.A framework as claimed in claim 15 wherein the prime members and the cross 15 members are constructed of galvanized steel tube.

17.A framework as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 16 including fittings adapted to fit closely around said side at each joint, so that a connector passes through the fitting. 20

18. A framework as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 17 including top members and/or spacer members to define the shape of the building.

19.A kitset of parts for a building, said kitset including a plurality of metal tubes, end 25 caps, fittings and connectors.

20.A building incorporating a framework as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 18 for each of the sides, rear and front, of the building. 14

21.A building as claimed in claim 20, including a framework as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 18 for the roof of the building. s