AU2019316499A1 - Structure adapted to span supports - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed is a structure adapted to span spaced supports. The disclosure has particular application to temporary bridges and other access ways. The structure is configured with upper and lower chords. In some embodiments, the structure is formed from polyhedral frame modules and has an upper chords incorporating 5 stiffening elements to improve the strength stronger in compression of that chord.

Description

STRUCTURE ADAPTED TO SPAN SUPPORTS

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates a structure adapted to span spaced supports. The disclosure has particular application to temporary bridges and other access ways and is herein described in that context.

BACKGROUND ART

Temporary bridges may be required in a variety of circumstances, for example, temporary bridges may be required at building sites to facilitate workers navigating building sites. Although they are temporary, the bridges must be strong enough to support and provide crossing for frequent traffic including workers, public access, heavy materials, machines and equipment.

It is to be understood that, if any prior art is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

SUMMARY

Disclosed is a structure adapted to span spaced supports, the structure comprising a plurality of frame modules, the modules being polyhedral and connected in side to side relation; a plurality of panels connected to sides of the frame modules, the frame modules and panels being configured such that when connected, upper and lower chords are formed; and wherein at least a portion of one of the frame modules and the panel member include, or are in the form of, stiffening elements to strengthen the upper chords. In some forms, stiffening elements may be affixed to at least one of the frame modules and panel members to strengthen the upper chords. The stiffening elements may increase strength and rigidity of the structure to prevent failure of the structure in use. The upper chord may be able to resist failure in compression, and the lower chord may be able to resist failure in tension. The stiffening elements may also be included or affixed to strengthen the lower chords. The lower chords and the upper chords may be the same strength provided the upper chord is able to resist failure in compression.

In some forms, the frame modules are cuboid having upper and lower frame members that respectively form part of the upper and lower chords.

In some forms, the frame modules and panels are releaseably connected together to enable the structure to be assembled and disassembled on site. The modular components are easy to assemble, and easy to erect and deploy with a minimum of persons and assistance from heavy machinery or equipment.

In some forms, the interconnected frame modules define an access passage for pedestrians or equipment. In some forms, the interconnected frame modules may define separate access passage for pedestrians and equipment. In some forms, the joins of panels are offset from the joins between adjacent frame modules. Offsetting the joins between panels and frame modules inhibits areas of weaknesses by dispersing the joins and strengthens the overall structure.

Disclosed is a structure adapted to span spaced supports, the structure comprising a side frame forming a respective side of the structure and having upper and lower frame members and upright frame members extending between the upper and lower frame members; a plurality of panels connected to the side frame, the side frame and panels being configured such that when connected, upper and lower chords are formed; and wherein at least a portion of one of the side frames and panel members include, or are in the form of, stiffening elements to strengthen the upper chord.

In some forms, the structure is generally cuboid along at least a portion of its length and having opposite said side frames. In some forms, the frame members are profiled metal sections. In some forms, the upper frame members include or are in the form of the stiffening elements. In some forms, the stiffening elements are affixed to the upper frame members. In some forms, the lower frame members include or are in the form of the stiffening elements. In some forms, the stiffening elements are affixed to the lower frame members. In some forms, the stiffening elements are affixed to both the upper and lower frame members. The stiffening elements are used to strengthen a portion of the frame modules and/or the panels. They may be used in the place of or affixed to any frame member or any panel member. In some forms, the panels include upper and lower panel members that form part of the upper and lower chords. In some forms, the panel members are profiled metal sections. In some forms, the upper panel members include or are in the form of the stiffening elements. In some forms, the stiffening elements are affixed to the upper panel members. In some forms, the lower panel members include or are in the form of the stiffening elements. In some forms, the stiffening elements are affixed to the lower panel members. In some forms, the stiffening elements are affixed to both the upper and lower panel members.

In some forms, the frame members are releasably connected together to enable the structure to be assembled and disassembled on site. The joins of panels may be offset from the joins between adjacent frame members. The frame members are easy to interconnect and deploy with a minimum of person and assistance rom heavy machinery or equipment.

In some forms, the structure further comprises floor and/or roof panels supported by the frame members. Also disclosed is a structure adapted to span spaced supports, the structure comprising a plurality of frame modules, the modules being polyhedral and connected in side to side relation; the structure being configured with upper and lower chords, wherein the upper chords are stronger in compression than the lower chords. The structure is adapted to span across two or more supports. The upper chords provide increased strength which may prevent failing (e.g., by buckling) of the structure when the upper chords are in compression.

In some forms, the structure further comprises a plurality of panels connected to sides of the frame modules, the frame modules and panels being configured such that when connected, the upper and lower chords are formed.

In some forms, the structure further comprises stiffening elements affixed to at least one of the frame modules and panel members to strengthen the upper chords. The stiffening elements add strength and rigidity to resist the flexural load on the chords. The stiffening elements may increase strength and rigidity of the structure. The stiffening elements may also be affixed to the lower chords to strengthen the lower chords.

In some forms, the frame modules are cuboid having upper and lower frame members that respectively form part of the upper and lower chords.

In some forms, the frame members are profiled metal sections. In some forms, the upper frame members include or are in the form of the stiffening elements.

In some forms, the panels include upper and lower panel members that form part of the upper and lower chords.

In some forms, the frame modules are releaseably connected together to enable the structure to be assembled and disassembled on site. In some forms, the interconnected frame modules define an access passage for pedestrians or equipment. The joins of panels may be offset from the joins between adjacent frame modules.

Also disclosed is a structure adapted to span spaced supports, the structure comprising a side frame forming a respective side of the structure and having upper and lower frame members and upright frame members extending between the upper and lower frame members; the structure being configured with upper and lower chords, wherein the upper chords are stronger in compression than the lower chords. In some forms, the structure is generally cuboid along at least a portion of its length and having opposite said side frames.

In some forms, the frame members are profiled metal sections. In some forms, the upper frame members include or are in the form of stiffening elements. In some forms, the structure further comprises a plurality of panels connected to the side frames, the frame members and panels being configured such that when connected, the upper and lower chords are formed.

Also disclosed is a module adapted to be connected in side to side relation to form with adjacent modules to form a structure which spans spaced supports, the structure being configured with upper and lower chords, the module comprising: the module being polyhedral and formed of a plurality of frame members connected together; the module is defined at least in part by upper frame members and lower frame members; and wherein the upper frame members include or are in the form of stiffening elements to strengthen the upper chord. In some forms, the module is in the form of a cuboid including opposing sides, opposing ends, a top and a bottom, and the upper frame member extend along the top and the lower frame members extend along the bottom.

In some forms, the upper frame member extends along the opposing ends, and the lower frame member extend along the opposing ends. In some forms, the frame members are profiled metal sections.

In some forms, the lower frame members are in the form of stiffening elements to strengthen the lower chord.

Also disclosed is a method of installing a structure adapted to span spaced supports comprising: connecting a plurality of polyhedral frame modules in side by side relation to form a continuous passage therein; and forming upper and lower chords in the structure which are arranged to accommodate bending stresses in the structure, wherein the upper chords are stronger in compression than the lower chords.

In some forms, the method further comprises connecting a plurality of panels to sides of the frame modules, the frame modules and panels being configured such that when connected, the upper and lower chords are formed.

In some forms, the method further comprises affixing stiffening elements to at least one of the frame modules and panel members to strengthen the upper chords.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Embodiments will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which

Fig. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a structure;

Fig. 2 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a frame module is a component of the structure of Fig. 1; Fig. 3 is an isometric view of an embodiment of panels which are components of the structure of Fig. 1;

Fig. 4 is an isometric view of a portion of the structure of Fig. 1;

Fig. 5 is a plan view of a portion of the structure of Fig. 1;

Fig. 6 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a structure; Fig. 7 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a structure;

Fig. 8 is a side view of a further embodiment of a structure;

Fig. 9 is an exploded side view of the structure of Fig. 8;

Fig. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the structure of Fig 8; and Fig. 11 is partially exploded perspective view.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to accompanying drawings which form a part of the detailed description. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, depicted in the drawings and defined in the claims, are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilised and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated in this disclosure.

Disclosed is a structure 10 adapted to span spaced supports 12. In general, the structure 10 is disclosed in the context of a work site for the construction, maintenance and renovation of a building or the like. The structure may provide passage over the site overlying work areas. Likewise, the structure may also connect two adjacent buildings or structures. The structure may be temporary to be transported between work sites and easily assembled. The structure is modular to facilitate assembly and disassembly.

Fig. 1 illustrates a first embodiment of the structure 10 being adapted to span two spaced supports 12. In general, the structure 10 has a plurality of openings that provide at least one entrance and at least one exit of the structure. The structure provides passage over the span for persons, materials and equipment. The structure 10 generally includes frame modules 14, and panels 16 connected in side to side relation. The frame modules and panels are arranged to be connected with releasable connections for ease of configuration, assembly and disassembly. When the frame modules 14 and panels are connected in side to side relation, the structure 10 forms a truss, having upper and lower chords 18, 20. To better accommodate bending stresses in the structure, the upper chords 18 are designed to be stronger in compression than the lower chords 20. The upper chords 18 extend along the top of the structure extending between the spaced supports 12. The lower chords 20 extend along the bottom of the structure 10 extending between the spaced supports 12. The structure further comprises floor panels 34 and roof panels 23 supported by the frame modules 14

The spaced supports 12 may include two or more supports. In the illustrated embodiment, the spaced supports 12 also include the frame modules and panels so that they can be assembled and disassembled and reconfigured as required in different configurations. Also, the frame modules as disclosed may include a stair access to provide an access point to the passageway. It is to be appreciated that the spaced supports may take different forms, such as being existing structures (e.g. existing buildings or ground levels when the structure spans an excavation site) or be of more conventional support designs (such as piers or columns). Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of a frame module 14. The frame module 14 is generally polyhedral so they can be connected in side to side relation with other frame modules 14. When assembled together, the frame modules 14 define the passage that extends in a longitudinal direction. It is understood that the frame modules may be any suitable shape, however, in the illustrated embodiment, the frame modules 14 are cuboid. The frame modules 14 may be releasably coupled together to allow at least one dimension of the structure 12 to be varied, for example, the length of the structure 12 to be extended or reduced. The supports 12 may also include modules which are arranged to be added or removed from the supports to vary at least one dimension of the supports, for example, the height of the supports.

Each frame module 14 includes a plurality of longitudinal (horizontal) 22, 24 and upright (vertical) 26 frame members. The frame members are arranged to form a box-like frame (i.e., rectangular prism). The box-like frame includes opposite sides, opposite ends, a top and a bottom. The frame includes upper horizontal frame members and lower horizontal frame members. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower horizontal frame members 24 extending between the opposite ends form part of the lower chord 20 of the structure. The vertical frame members 26 define the rise of the structure 12. In the embodiment shown, stiffening elements 28 are affixed to the upper frame members 22 of the frame modules 14 to strengthen the upper chord 18 formed on assembly of the structure 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the stiffening elements 28 are in the form of a parallel flange channel. The stiffening elements 28 increase the strength of the frame modules 14 along the portion that also forms part of the upper chord 18. In alternative embodiments, stiffening elements may also be affixed to the lower frame members of the frame modules or the panels.

In this way, the lower chords may be the same strength as the upper chords, but the upper chords are of a suitable strength to resist failure in compression and the lower chords are of a suitable strength to resist failure in tension. The stiffening elements 28 and the frame members 22, 24, 26 also include pre formed holes 30. The frame members 22, 24, 26 are profiled metal sections. This allows adjacent frames to be interconnected with a combination of bolts and nuts, or other suitable mechanical fasteners. In one form, the pre-formed holes 30 are l8mm in diameter (see Fig.2), with the corresponding bolts having a shank diameter of l6mm. This advantageously provides a degree of tolerance to assembly of the structure 10. The pre-formed holes 30, may be any suitable size or shape for securable connection. The pre-formed holes do not need to be equally spaced apart and do not need to extend the entire length of the respective face.

The bottom of the frame modules 14 also include a floor 32 for supporting the persons, materials or equipment in use. The floor 32 may be affixed to the frame members 22, 24, 26 in any suitable way such as welding, mechanical fastener or adhesive. The floor 32 may be fixed to each individual frame module or an extended floor may be supported across a plurality of frame modules. The floor may be made up of individual boards assembled together or a unitary piece. Similarly, the top of the frame modules 14 also include a roof 23 for overhead protection. The roof 23 may be affixed to the frame members 22, 24, 26 in any suitable way such as welding, mechanical fastener or adhesive. The roof 23 may be fixed to each individual frame module or an extended roof may be supported across a plurality of frame modules. The roof may be made up of individual boards assembled together or a unitary piece.

Fig. 3 illustrates an embodiment of the panel 16 which may be mounted to the frame modules 14 to define an enclosed passageway. The panels define a perimeter wall extending in a longitudinal direction defining an interior passage interconnecting the at least one entrance and exit.

Each panel 16 includes frame members extending around the edge of the panel. The vertical frame members 26 are in the form of profiled metal sections and include preformed holes 30. Stiffening elements 28 are affixed to the upper and lower frame members, for example, parallel flange channels. The stiffening elements 28 respectively form part of the upper and lower chords 18, 20 of the structure 10.

The panels 16 strengthen the structure 10 and provide a barrier structure for the passage formed by the structure 10, thereby prevent workers or other pedestrians falling from the structure and also prevent debris (from a construction site) from entering the passageway. The panels typically include a facing of expanded metal mesh that form the barrier. Alternatives to the expanded mesh may also be used (e.g. slatted members or solid facing).

Each panel 16 also includes bracing members 36 extending diagonally across an exterior surface of the panel 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the bracing members are positioned in an x-shape and form the truss webs of the structure 10 interconnecting the top and bottom chords. The bracing members 36 act principally in tension and compression and also increase rigidity and strength of the panel 16, and thus the structure, and facilitate the structure 10 being supported at the furthest distance from either support 12. Now turning to Fig. 5, the panels 16 are mounted to the frame modules 14. When connected in this way, the upper and lower chords are formed. In general, when the structure 10 spans the supports 12 and subjected to bending under load, the upper chords are in compression and the lower chords are in tension. Because of the disclosed arrangement, the upper chords 18 are stronger than the lower chords 20 so as to better enable the upper chords to accommodate the induced compression, particularly as the chords are made from metal and therefore better able to accommodate tensile than compressive loading (which may induce buckling in a metal member). In the illustrated embodiment, two of the stiffening elements 28 are joined together in back to back arrangement and extend along the length of the structure 10 to form each upper chord 18, whereas the lower chord 20 includes single stiffening elements 28 joined to lower frame members 24 and extending the length of the structure 10.

Fig. 5 illustrates the structure in a plan view, which illustrates the joins of the panels are offset from the joins between adjacent frame modules. Offsetting this join in this way also strengthens the structure by dispersing the areas of that would be more susceptible to failure at the join.

Figs. 6 and 7 illustrate a second embodiment of the structure 100. Like reference numerals are used for like features. The primary difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment is the configuration of the modules 14 and panels 16 in the assembled condition. The frame modules 14 and panels 16 are releasably connected together to enable the structure and to be assembled and disassembled on site. This also enables the structure to be assembled in various configurations. In the illustrated embodiment, the structure 100 is an L-shape, and may also include multiple entry and exit points.

The supports 112 as shown in Fig. 7 are in a stacked configuration and include stair access up to the level of the structure 100. The supports 112 are formed from the frame modules 14 and mesh panels 16 as discussed above. Although, not shown the L-shape structure 100 includes a third support, which may be in a different form, such as a building.

Figs. 8 to 11 illustrate a third embodiment of the structure 200. The third embodiment includes many of the features of the earlier embodiments and like reference numerals are used for like features. The primary difference between the third embodiment and the first and second embodiment is that rather than form the structure from discrete modules, the structure has side frames 201 assembled from frame members in the form of stiffening elements 226, 228, and 244 to increase rigidity and strength of the structure 200 and facilitate the structure 200 being supported at the furthest distance from either support.

Referring to Figs. 8 and 9, the side frame stiffening elements include a vertical stiffening element 226, a horizontal stiffening element 228, and a bracket stiffening element 244. The additional stiffening elements are disposed in different locations throughout the structure 200. The structure also includes panels which overlay the side frames and these may include panels 16’, as well as upper panels 240.

The side frames 201 include horizontal stiffening element 228 that form part of the upper 218 chord of the structure 200. The horizontal stiffening element 228 comprises substantially identical components to those in the stiffening element 28’ are located above stiffening element 28’ along the upper chord 218. The elements 228 are disposed in discrete lengths, where one or more of the elements 228 are arranged side-to-side to span the length of the structure 200. Elements 228 along the length of the structure 200 are offset relative to the elements 28’ such that joins between adjacent elements do not align. Offsetting the elements in this way strengthens the structure 200 by ensuring the weakest regions, i.e. the joins between adjacent elements, do not align at any point along the structure 200.

The element 228 is also forms part of lower chord 220 about lower frame members 24’. Disposed in discrete lengths, the elements 228 span the length of the structure 200. In a variation of the second embodiment not shown, the elements 228 of the lower chord 220 may span between the vertical frame members 26 disclosed in the first embodiment.

In the abovementioned arrangement of the horizontal elements 228, the upper chord 218 comprising the two adjacent arrangements of the stiffening members 228, 28’ is stronger than the lower chord 220, which comprises the single arrangement of stiffening members 228. The additional stiffening elements affixed to the upper chords 218 enables the upper chord 218 to better

accommodate compression loading placed on structure 200.

Referring now to Figs. 10 and 11, vertical stiffening elements 226, are disposed between the two horizontal stiffening elements 228 of the respective upper and lower chords 218, 220. The elements 226 comprise substantially identical components to those in stiffening element 228 and are oriented vertically, i.e. perpendicular to the horizontal orientation of the elements 228 and adapted in length to span the distance separating the upper and lower chords 218, 220. The vertical elements 226 may be distributed at equidistant intervals along the length of the structure 200 or may be unevenly distributed along the length of structure 200. Further, the vertical stiffening element 226 may be placed along structure 200 such that they are offset from, i.e. do not align with, the joints between adjacent horizontal elements 228 in the upper and lower chords 218, 220. As previously mentioned, misaligning joints distribute points of weakness and further improves the rigidity and strength of the structure 200.

In a variation of the second embodiment not shown, the vertical elements 226 may be installed in addition to the vertical frame members 26 disclosed in the first embodiment, wherein an elongate side 227 of the element 226 may be affixed to and about pre-formed holes 30’ of a mating elongate side of the vertical frame member 26. In the embodiment shown in Figs. 10 and 11, the vertical element 226 may substitute or replace the vertical frame member 26 of the first embodiment. The vertical stiffening elements may be beneficial to increase the strength of the structure 200 against external forces such as lateral or torsional forces. The panel elements 240 form part of the upper chord 218 and are affixed to the upper chord 218 about stiffening elements 28’, the horizontal elements 228 and the roof member 23’. In the illustrated embodiment, the panel stiffening elements 240 differ from the panels 16’ in that they may be smaller. The elements 240 extend between upper frame members 22’ and the horizontal element 228 of the upper chord 218. The elements 240 are disposed in discrete lengths along the span of the structure 200 and strengthen the upper chord 218 of the structure 200. The elements 240 may be positioned along the length of the structure 200 such that joints between adjoining elements 240 are offset from the location of joints between adjacent stiffening elements 28’ and horizontal elements 228.

Panels 16’ are located below the panel stiffening element 240 may take the form of the panels 16, as previously described. Panels 16’ are arranged in a side-to-side relation and may affix to the outside of structure 200 about adjacent stiffening elements 216, 228, 226 and frame members 24’. The addition of the panel stiffening elements 240 increases the capacity of the upper chord 218 to accommodate compression loading, therefore improving the rigidity and strength of structure 200. The panels 16’ also strengthen the structure 200. Both panel types, 240, 16’ provide a barrier structure for the passage formed by the structure 200, thereby preventing workers or other pedestrians falling from the structure. Further, the panels 240, 16’ also prevent debris (from a construction site) entering the passageway. The panels 240, 16’ typically include a facing of expanded metal mesh 217 that form the barrier. Alternatives to the expanded mesh may also be used (e.g. slatted members or solid facing).

The panel stiffening elements 240 may be interspersed with the spacing element 242. The spacing element 242 may be positioned between one or more panel stiffening elements 240 along the length of structure 200. The elements 242 comprise substantially identical components to those in vertical stiffening elements 226, i.e., the elements 242 are oriented perpendicular to the horizontal orientation of elements 228. The elements 242 are sized to extend between the upper frame members 22’ and the horizontal element 228. The spacing elements 242 allow varying dimensions of elements, panels, frame members to be included in the structure by filling in any spaces to complete the upper chord along the length of the structure 200 whilst also ensuring that the joins are not overlapping. The brackets 244 provide additional reinforcing to joints between the roof panel 23’ and the stiffening elements 28’ of structure 200. Referring to Figs. 8 to 10, and as best shown in Fig. 9, the bracket 244 takes a substantially triangular form with a web 246 and two outwardly projecting flanges 248 on two respective perpendicular sides of the bracket 244. The flanges 248 include the pre-formed holes 30’ and may be releasably coupled about the corresponding holes 30’ in the structure 200.

The flanges 248 of brackets 244 may affix between the upper horizontal frame member 22’ and the stiffening element 28’. The brackets 244 may be

interconnected with the upper frame 22’ and the element 28’ about the holes 30’ by a combination of bolts and nuts, or other suitable mechanical fasteners.

A plurality of the brackets 244 may be dispersed along the length of structure 200 and may align with either side of a joint between adjoining stiffening elements 28’. The brackets 244 provide additional resistance to bending moment in the structure 200. This is achieved by the web 246 which supports the bending loads about the hypotenuse edge of its triangular form.

Figs. 8 and 9 illustrate a variation of the second embodiment wherein the structure 200 also comprises a plurality of handrails 250 dispersed along the length of structure 200. Handrails 250 may be releasably connected by a mounting 252 to any number of vertical stiffening elements 226 as to support a railing 254.

Mountings 252 may also be affixed to vertical frame members 26 (not shown) as described in the first embodiment of structure 200. In the embodiment shown in Figs. 8 and 9, mounting 252 may take the form of a bent elongate rod. Mounting 252 may also take any suitable form to affix the railing 254 to the stiffening elements 226. The railing 254 may take the form of an extruded circular- section bar spaning between mountings 252 and along the length of the structure 200.

Variations and modifications may be made to the parts previously described without departing from the spirit or ambit of the disclosure. In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word“comprise” or variations such as“comprises” or “comprising” is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

Claims (41)

1. A structure adapted to span spaced supports, the structure comprising: a plurality of frame modules, the modules being polyhedral and connected in side to side relation; a plurality of panels connected to sides of the frame modules, the frame modules and panels being configured such that when connected, upper and lower chords are formed; and wherein at least a portion of one of the frame modules and panel members include, or are in the form of, stiffening elements to strengthen the upper chord.

2. A structure according to claim 1, wherein the frame modules are cuboid having upper and lower frame members that respectively form part of the upper and lower chords.

3. A structure adapted to span spaced supports, the structure comprising: a side frame forming a respective side of the structure and having upper and lower frame members and upright frame members extending between the upper and lower frame members; a plurality of panels connected to the side frame, the side frame and panels being configured such that when connected, upper and lower chords are formed; and wherein at least a portion of one of the side frames and panel members include, or are in the form of, stiffening elements to strengthen the upper chord.

4. A structure according to claim 3, wherein the structure is generally cuboid along at least a portion of its length and having opposite said side frames.

5. A structure according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the frame

members are profiled metal sections.

6. A structure according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the upper frame members include or are in the form of stiffening elements.

7. A structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the panels include upper and lower panel members that form part of the upper and lower chords.

8. A structure according to claim 7, wherein the panel members are profiled metal sections.

9. A structure according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the panels include diagonal bracing that form webs interconnecting the upper and lower chords.

10. A structure according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the upper panel members include or are in the form of the stiffening elements.

11. A structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the structure defines an access passage for pedestrians or equipment.

12. A structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lower chords and the upper chords are the same strength.

13. A structure according to any one of the preceding claims, when dependent on claim 1, wherein the frame modules are releaseably connected together to enable the structure to be assembled and disassembled on site.

14. A structure according to claim 13, wherein the joins of panels are offset from the joins between adjacent frame modules.

15. A structure according to any one of claims 3 to 12, when dependent on claim 3, wherein the frame members are releasably connected together to enable the structure to be assembled and disassembled on site.

16. A structure according to claim 15, wherein the joins of panels are offset from the joins between adjacent frame members.

17. A structure according to any preceding claim, further comprising floor and / or roof panels supported by the frame members.

18. A module adapted to be connected in side to side relation to form with adjacent modules to form a structure which spans spaced supports, the structure being configured with upper and lower chords, the module comprising: the module being polyhedral and formed of a plurality of frame members connected together; the module is defined at least in part by upper frame members and lower frame members; and wherein the upper frame members include, or are in the form, of stiffening elements to strengthen the upper chord.

19. A module according to claim 18, wherein the module is in the form of a cuboid including opposing sides, opposing ends, a top and a bottom, and the upper frame member extend along the top and the lower frame members extend along the bottom.

20. A module according to claim 19, wherein the upper and lower frame members extends between the opposing ends.

21. A module according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the frame members are profiled metal sections.

22. A module according to any one of claims 18 to 21, wherein the lower frame members include or are in the form of stiffening elements to strengthen the lower chord.

23. A module according to any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein the lower chords and the upper chords are the same strength.

24. A structure adapted to span spaced supports, the structure comprising: a plurality of frame modules, the modules being polyhedral and connected in side to side relation; the structure being configured with upper and lower chords, wherein the upper chords are stronger in compression than the lower chords.

25. A structure according to claim 24, wherein the structure further comprises a plurality of panels connected to sides of the frame modules, the frame modules and panels being configured such that when connected, the upper and lower chords are formed.

26. A structure according to claim 25, further comprising stiffening elements included in or affixed to at least one of the frame modules and panel members to strengthen the upper chords.

27. A structure according to claim 26, wherein the frame modules are cuboid having upper and lower frame members that respectively form part of the upper and lower chords.

28. A structure according to claim 27, wherein the frame members are profiled metal sections.

29. A structure according to claim either claim 27 or 28, when dependent on claim 24, wherein the upper frame members include or are in the form of the stiffening elements.

30. A structure according to claim 29, wherein the panels include upper and lower panel members that form part of the upper and lower chords.

31. A structure according to any one of claims 24 to 30, wherein the frame modules are releaseably connected together to enable the structure to be assembled and disassembled on site.

32. A structure according to any one of claims 24 to 31, wherein the

interconnected frame modules define an access passage for pedestrians or equipment.

33. A structure according to one of the preceding claims 24 to 32, wherein the joins of panels are offset from the joins between adjacent frame modules.

34. A structure adapted to span spaced supports, the structure comprising: a side frame forming a respective side of the structure and having upper and lower frame members and upright frame members extending between the upper and lower frame members; the structure being configured with upper and lower chords, wherein the upper chords are stronger in compression than the lower chords.

35. A structure according to claim 34, wherein the structure is generally

cuboid along at least a portion of its length and having opposite said side frames.

36. A structure according to claim 34 or 35, wherein the frame members are profiled metal sections.

37. A structure according to any one of claims 34 to 36, wherein the upper frame members include or are in the form of stiffening elements.

38. A structure according to any one of claims 34 to 37, wherein the structure further comprises a plurality of panels connected to the side frames, the frame members and panels being configured such that when connected, the upper and lower chords are formed.

39. A method of installing a structure adapted to span spaced supports

comprising: connecting a plurality of polyhedral frame modules in side by side relation to form a continuous passage therein; and forming upper and lower chords in the structure which are arranged to accommodate bending stresses in the structure, wherein the upper chords are stronger in compression than the lower chords.

40. A method according to claim 39, further comprising connecting a plurality of panels to sides of the frame modules, the frame modules and panels being configured such that when connected, the upper and lower chords are formed.

41. A method according to claim 40, comprising including or affixing

stiffening elements to at least one of the frame modules and panel members to strengthen the upper chords.