AU2013204952A1 - A Structural Module - Google Patents

Abstract

Abstract The invention provides for a structural module configured to support a pallet for growing turf. The structural module includes a peripheral wall and an internal framework. The internal framework can have an upper planar framework surface and a lower planar framework level. The internal framework can be surrounded by the peripheral wall. The upper planar framework surface and the lower planar framework level engage with the pallet to support the pallet within the structural module. enl en Oen

Description

A Structural Module Field of the Invention This invention relates to a structural module and, in one form, a structural module configured to 5 support a pallet for growing turf such as natural turf. Background There are many locations where there is wear and tear of natural turf. On sporting surfaces, it is not practical to continually resurface such locations with turf that has been grown elsewhere as it takes .0 time for the new turf to knit into the ground upon which it is laid. In the meantime the surface is dangerous for sports as the new turf can slide like a carpet on a smooth surface. This shift of the new turf can cause substantial injury to those involved in the sport. One particular concern for wear of turf is on horse racetracks or the like. It is necessary that there is .5 a continuous and smooth natural turf track along which the horses race. However it is necessary in such sports that there is usage of the area within an oval track as well as outside the oval track. For this to occur it is common that there are pathways across the horse track between the inside and outside. This can be used for motor vehicles to pass. Therefore the pathway, which must remain as turf for the horse racing is considerably worn over this pathway by the motor vehicles well beyond 20 the wear of the rest of the horse racetrack and needs to be constantly repaired. Summary of the invention In one aspect, there is provided herein a structural module configured to support a pallet for growing turf, the structural module including a peripheral wall; and, an internal framework having an 25 upper planar framework surface and a lower planar framework level, the internal framework being 1 surrounded by the peripheral wall, wherein the upper planar framework surface and the lower planar framework level engage with the pallet to support the pallet within the structural module. In one form, the structural module further includes one or more internal walls, the one or more 5 internal walls being configured to define a plurality of areas within the structural module, each of the plurality of areas including an internal framework, such that the structural module is configured to support a pallet in each of the plurality of areas. An advantage is that the plurality of areas prevent lateral movement (such as during transportation) of the pallet when supported by the plurality of areas. .0 Preferably, the internal framework includes raised elongate portions, raised from the lower framework level, the raised elongate portions defining a recess, wherein the recess is configured to receive a complementary base portion of the pallet. .5 In one form, the raised elongate portion form a cross hatching. In another form, the raised elongate portion form a cross pathway. The cross hatching or the cross pathway can extend from one side of the peripheral wall to another side of the peripheral wall. In this way, openings are formed which allow for the insertion of tynes of a forklift. Preferably, the cross pathway is raised at least between the upper planar framework surface and the lower planar framework level. 20 In one form, the internal framework is integrally formed with the structural module. In one form, the internal framework is rigid to increase structural module integrity. An advantage of such structural integrity is that the internal framework allows the structural module to be transportable and lifted, such as by a forklift. 25 In one form, the framework base can comprise of drainage slits. 2 In one form, the upper planar framework surface can further comprise drainage slits. This allows the internal framework to have the additional advantage of providing a means for drainage. 5 Preferably, the perimeter wall extends above a height of the framework. The structural module can further include a peripheral fence connected to the peripheral wall to extend above the peripheral wall. In one form, the peripheral fence is removable from the peripheral wall. An advantage of the peripheral fence is that it can assist in retaining the profile of .0 the turf during the growing of the turf. The structural module can further include an identification means. An advantage is that the location of the structural module can be tracked and controlled. In one form, the identification means is a radio frequency identification device. .5 In another aspect, there is provided herein a structural module for supporting a plurality of pallets holding natural turf comprising a body able to hold a plurality of pallets; the body including a framework having a rigid structural framework formed of cross pathways extending from extremities of the body between an upper planar framework surface and a lower planar framework level, a 20 framework base extending at least between the framework within or in line or between the upper planar framework surface and the lower planar framework level, wherein the framework provides means for being lifted by forklift or the like and the upper planar framework surface and the framework base provides a support base for the plurality of the pallets. 25 The structural module can include drainage slits in the framework base. 3 The structural module includes perimeter walls and internal side walls extending above the height of the framework and framing each pallet supported on the framework and the framework base. The structural module includes a peripheral fence extending above the peripheral wall for containing 5 the turf in transport but the peripheral fence being removable when in use. In a further aspect, there is provided herein a method of transporting a plurality of pallets for holding natural turf including the steps of: providing a structural module with a framework having a rigid structural framework .0 formed of cross pathways extending from extremities of the body between an upper planar framework surface and a lower planar framework level, and a framework base extending at least between the framework within or in line or between the upper planar framework surface and the lower planar framework level, for holding a plurality of pallets contained therein above the framework channels and base; .5 lifting the module by a forklift having tynes extending at least 75% along the framework channels; placing the modules in location. The method can include the step of growing natural turf in a plurality of pallets, locating the plurality 20 of pallets into designated locations on the module to create a module with continuous natural turf, locating the module at the required location. The locating of the modules can include using the perimeter fences for growth and transport but removal while in location. In this way the natural turf is growing at a height above the perimeter 25 framework such that when the module is in location the perimeter framework is below top turf surface and does not cause any interference. 4 The modules can further include identification means which in one form could be radio frequency identification devices (RFID) such that the location of the modules whether in transport, in position on the racetrack or elsewhere can be readily tracked and controlled. 5 The invention thereby provides a means of transport of multiple pallets while allowing for placement in location. It increases the versatility, overcomes structural deficiencies and allows for pallets to be more readily supported in location. .0 Brief Description of the Drawings In order that the invention is more readily understood an embodiment will be described by way of illustration only with reference to the drawings wherein: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a structural module in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; .5 Figure 2 is a bottom view of a structural module in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention; Figure 3 is a top view of the structural module of Figure 2; Figure 4 is a front view of the structural module of Figure 2; Figure 5 is a left side view of the structural module of Figure 2; 20 Figure 6 is a right side view of the structural module of Figure 2; Figure 7A and 7B are front views of two complementary internal side walls, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; Figure 8 is a front view of a perimeter wall, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; 25 Figure 9 is a front view of a peripheral fence, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; 5 Figure 10 is a photographic image of a pallet supported by a structural module in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; and Figure 11 is a photographic image of a base portion of a pallet. 5 Description of the Embodiment of the Invention The invention provides for a structural module configured to support a pallet for growing turf. The structural module can include a peripheral wall and an internal framework. The internal framework can have an upper planar framework surface and a lower planar framework level. The internal framework can be surrounded by the peripheral wall. The upper planar framework surface and the .0 lower planar framework level can engage with the pallet to support the pallet within the structural module. A more specific embodiment will be described herein with reference to the drawings. There is provided in Figure 1, a structural module 11 for supporting a plurality of pallets 15 (shown in Figures .5 10 and 11) holding natural turf. The structural module 11 includes a rectangular body 12 sized to be able to hold and support the pallet 15 or a plurality of the pallets 15. The body 12 can include a rectangular perimeter wall 22 and an internal framework 21 to engage with the pallet 15 to support the pallet 15 within the structural module 11. The internal framework 20 21 can have an upper planar framework surface 32 and a lower planar framework level 34. The peripheral wall 22 (discussed below) can surround the internal framework 21. The internal framework 21 can have a corrugated appearance, as shown in Figures 1 and 3 where the internal framework 21 includes raised elongate portions which are raised from the lower framework level 34. As shown in Figure 1, the raised elongate portion can be in the form of a rigid structural framework 25 formed of cross pathway 25, 26 that are integrally formed with the structural module. In this form, 6 the cross pathway 25, 26 extends from one side of the peripheral wall 22 to another side of the peripheral wall 22. The raised elongate portions can define a recess 31. The cross pathways 25, 26 are in the form of channels having openings 28, 29 at the outerside of the 5 perimeter wall 22, on the extremities of the body 12. The cross pathways 25, 26 can extend between the upper planar framework surface 32 and the lower planar framework level 34. The lower planar framework level 34 comprises of a framework base 30. The framework base 30 extends at least between the cross pathways 25, 26 within or in line or between the upper planar framework surface 32 and the lower planar framework level 34. In this way the body 12 is able to support the .0 pallets 15 holding natural turf above the internal framework 21 including above the framework base 30. In this way, the internal framework 21 provides a network of channels. In this preferred form the cross pathways 25, 26, are closed rectangular shapes, as shown by the openings 28, 29, to provide increased strength and allow little or no deformation. To achieve this, the framework base 30 can extend right across the lower planar framework level of the body 12, although the channels .5 can be welded to the framework base 30 to form the rigidity. The internal framework 21 includes the rigid structural internal framework 21 formed of cross pathways 25, 26 extending from openings 28, 29 at the extremities of the body 12 to provide pathways for being lifted by forklift or the like and the internal framework 21 including the upper 20 planar framework surface 32 and the framework base 30 provides a support base for the pallet 15. The internal framework 21 therefore provides integrity and strength to allow the transportability and portability of the structural module 11. As shown in Figure 11, the pallet 15 has a base portion 16. The base portion 16 can have a shape and configuration complementary to the shape and configuration of the internal framework 21. In particular, the base portion 16 of the pallet 15 has 25 protrusions 17 that slide into the recess 31 formed by the cross pathways 25, 26. This provides an interlocking effect such that the pallet 15 can be supported by the internal framework 21 to prevent 7 horizontal movement of the pallet 15 during transportation and during use (for example, the running movement of horses on a race track). The perimeter wall 22 is shown in Figure 8. The perimeter wall 22 can be welded to the framework 5 base 30. The perimeter wall 22 has a connecting portion 23 that connects the perimeter wall 22 to the framework base 30. The connecting portion 23 has a shape and configuration complementing that of the cross pathways 25, 26. As shown in Figure 8 the connection portion 23 is corrugated. The perimeter wall 22 has slots 24 for receiving a peripheral fence 13. .0 The structural module 11 includes drainage slits 36 in the framework base 30 between the cross pathways 25, 26 of the rigid structural internal framework 21. These slits 36 can be in the cross pathways 25, 26 or the framework base 30 to allow drainage. If the drainage slits are in the cross pathways 25, 26, the channels formed by the cross pathways 25, 26 can perform as an irrigation channel as well so as to provide a continuous drainage pathway from underneath the structural .5 module 11 to the extremities which could be the extremity of the racetrack (if the cross pathways 25, 26 are aligned between two or more structural modules). The structural module 11 includes perimeter walls 22 as well as internal side walls 42. The internal side walls are configured to define a plurality of areas within the structural module 11 such that one 20 structural module 11 can support more than one pallet 15. For example, the structural module 11 shown in Figure 1 is capable of holding and supporting four pallets 15 as there are four plurality of areas. In an alternate embodiment where a single pallet 15 is to be supported by the internal framework an internal side wall 42 may not be required. 25 The internal side walls 42 can extend above the height of the upper planar framework surface 32 of the internal framework 21 and frame each of the pallets supported on the cross pathways 25, 26 and 8 the framework base 30. The internal side walls 42, depicted in Figures 7A and 7B, have a connecting portion 44 that connects the internal side walls 42 to the framework base 30. The connecting portion 44 has a shape and configuration complementing that of the cross pathways 25, 26. As shown in Figure 7A and 7B, the connection portion 44 is corrugated. To connect the internal side 5 walls 42 shown in Figure 7A with that shown in Figure 7B, the internal side walls 42 can have a slit 45 to allow the sliding of one internal side wall 42 into another. The structural module 11 includes a peripheral fence 13 extending above the perimeter walls 22 for containing the turf in transport and also assisting, during the growing of the turf, in retaining the .0 profile of the turf. The peripheral fence 13 can be removable when in use (for example, when inserted onto a race track). The peripheral fence 13 includes drainage slits 14 (which are formed once the perimeter wall 22 is connected to the peripheral fence 13) and projections 27 for sliding into the slot 24 of the perimeter wall to connect the peripheral fence 13 to the perimeter wall 22. The peripheral fence 13 can further include side projections for connecting one or more peripheral .5 fences 13 together. The side projections can be complementary in which one can be in the form of a receiving aperture 29A to receive a tapered insert 29B. In use therefore the plurality of pallets 15 can be used for growing and holding natural turf. This can occur at a separate location (for example a nursery) from where the structural module 11 is to be 20 located (for example, a race track). The plurality of pallets 15 can be located into the structural module 11 during the growing of the natural turf. In doing so, the peripheral fence 13 assists in retaining the profile of the turf during the growing of the turf. A plurality of the structural modules 11 can be transported and placed in position (e.g. on a race track). It can be that the structural module 11 can include the plurality of pallets while the turf is being grown. However the structural 25 modules 11 can be used on a rotation basis while the turf is being grown. In use, the structural module 11 is inserted into the ground with the peripheral fence 13 removed. The turf, usually 9 around 150cm, supports the weight of, for example a horse, who would not feel the rigid structure of the internal framework 21 beneath the turf and pallet 15. The structural module 11 is moveable and reusable to replace worn patches in the turf. Therefore, if an area of turf requires replacing, one structural module 11 can be removed and replaced with another. 5 In this regard the structural modules 11 can be sized to be included within a shipping container. Preferably therefore the dimensions are about 2.3 metres by 2.3 metres. The structural module 11 can further include an identification means which, in one form, could be radio frequency identification devices (RFID) such that the location of the structural modules 11 whether in .0 transport, in position on the racetrack or elsewhere can be readily tracked and controlled. It is preferable that the structural modules 11 are used to support the pallets 15 in location as the structural modules provide the structural base. .5 A typical racecourse could use 24 pallets of natural turf in two pallet widths. The use of 24 pallets that are flexible and individual provides the likelihood of each being at an angle to each other and therefore not forming a consistent planar surface with the right camber of the course. The alternative is to require a concrete base to be created. This can locks you in to a very particular height that must be reached and the concrete needs to be set at the right angle. It is difficult to re 20 alter or fine tune or change required surface characteristics. Instead the structural modules 11 form a rigid structural base and although can be laid on the concrete if already in place, can be mounted on sand or dirt. It is therefore much more readily able to be laid to the requirements by use of standard equipment such as forklift, bulldozers, graders etc that would be in use for the rest of the racetrack. 25 10 In use, the structural module 11 can assist in transporting a plurality of the pallets 15. Such a use will include, providing a structural module 11 having a rigid structural internal framework 21 formed of cross pathways 25, 26 extending from extremities of the body 12 between an upper planar framework surface 32 and a lower planar framework level 34 having a framework base 30 extending 5 at least between the internal framework 21 within or in line or between the upper planar framework surface 32 and the lower planar framework level 34, for holding a plurality of pallets 15 contained therein above the cross pathways 25, 26, having channels, and framework base 30. The structural module 11 is thereby able to be lifted by a forklift having tynes extending at least 75% along the channels. The structural modules 11 can be placed and used in location as they include their .0 structural base which limits the need for fixed concrete base, although the structural modules 11 can be located on concrete or with use of altering support stools or other level adjustment means. This is only possible as the structural module 11 provides the structural support which a pallet cannot. The method can include the step of growing natural turf in a plurality of pallets 15, locating the .5 plurality of pallets 15 into the plurality of areas on the structural module 11 to create a structural module 11 with continuous natural turf, locating the structural module 11 at the required location. The locating of the structural modules 11 can include using the peripheral fences 13 for growth and transport but removal while in location. In this way the natural turf is growing at a height above the 20 perimeter wall 22 such that when the structural module 11 is in location the perimeter wall 22 is below top turf surface and does not cause any interference. It should be noted that while we have described herein a particular embodiment of a structural module for supporting a plurality of pallets holding natural turf, it is further envisaged that other 25 embodiments of the invention could exhibit any number and combination of any one of the features 11 previously described. However, it is to be understood that any variations and modifications which can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention are included in the scope thereof. 12

Claims (16)

1. A structural module configured to support a pallet for growing turf, the structural module including: a. a peripheral wall; and, 5 b. an internal framework having an upper planar framework surface and a lower planar framework level, the internal framework being surrounded by the peripheral wall, c. wherein the upper planar framework surface and the lower planar framework level engage with the pallet to support the pallet within the structural module.

2. The structural module of claim 1, wherein the structural module further includes one or more .0 internal walls, the one or more internal walls being configured to define a plurality of areas within the structural module, each of the plurality of areas including an internal framework, such that the structural module is configured to support a pallet in each of the plurality of areas.

3. The structural module of any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the internal framework includes raised elongate portions, raised from the lower framework level, the raised elongate portions .5 defining a recess, wherein the recess is configured to receive a complementary base portion of the pallet.

4. The structural module of claim 3, wherein the raised elongate portion form a cross hatching or cross pathway.

5. A structural module according to claim 4, wherein the cross hatching or the cross pathway 20 extends from one side of the peripheral wall to another side of the peripheral wall.

6. A structural module according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the cross pathway is raised at least between the upper planar framework surface and the lower planar framework level.

7. A structural module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the internal framework is integrally formed with the structural module. 25

8. A structural module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the internal framework is rigid to increase structural module integrity. 13

9. The structural module according to claim 3, wherein the framework base comprises drainage slits.

10. The structural module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper planar framework surface further comprises drainage slits. 5

11. The structural module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the perimeter wall extends above a height of the framework.

12. The structural module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the structural module further includes a peripheral fence connected to the peripheral wall to extend above the peripheral wall. .0

13. The structural module according to claim 13, wherein the peripheral fence is removable from the peripheral wall.

14. The structural module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the structural module further includes an identification means.

15. The structural module according to claim 14, wherein the identification means is a radio .5 frequency identification device.

16. A structural module as substantially described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. 14