CA2044377C - Self-supporting structural assembly and building units for making the same - Google Patents
Self-supporting structural assembly and building units for making the sameInfo
- Publication number
- CA2044377C CA2044377C CA 2044377 CA2044377A CA2044377C CA 2044377 C CA2044377 C CA 2044377C CA 2044377 CA2044377 CA 2044377 CA 2044377 A CA2044377 A CA 2044377A CA 2044377 C CA2044377 C CA 2044377C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- unit
- lip
- floor
- channel
- connecting means
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/0046—Loggias
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B5/00—Floors; Floor construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted therefor
- E04B5/02—Load-carrying floor structures formed substantially of prefabricated units
- E04B5/026—Load-carrying floor structures formed substantially of prefabricated units with beams or slabs of plastic
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Electromagnetism (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Finishing Walls (AREA)
- Floor Finish (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
There is disclosed a structural building unit interconnecting with corresponding building units. The building unit is made of a floor having two extremities and two lateral edges. The lateral edges are provided with indentation that receive a tongue extending from the extremities of the corresponding unit. A plurality of such units interconnected together forms a tridimensional framework capable to hold glass panels or the like.
There is disclosed a structural building unit interconnecting with corresponding building units. The building unit is made of a floor having two extremities and two lateral edges. The lateral edges are provided with indentation that receive a tongue extending from the extremities of the corresponding unit. A plurality of such units interconnected together forms a tridimensional framework capable to hold glass panels or the like.
Description
--~ 20~4377 ~:
SELF-SUPPORTING STRUCTURAL ASSEMBLY AND
BUILDING UNITS FOR MAKING THE SAME.
This invention relates generally to structural building units which may be interconnected together to form a framework structure for mounting and supporting glass panels or other kinds of panels like acrylic, wood, or gla6s blocks.
There have been described many structural joint elements to form partition walls or the like. Most of the~e elements do not allow the construction of a supporting wall ~ince the elements are not designed to support panels or blocks. Most structural joint 1~ elements for panels that have been described need the support of a structural wall in order to be mounted or ~upported. For example, Canadian patent 1,208,872 discloses a joint element which must be fir~t mounted on columns or rafters. These elements do not provide a ;~ 20 6elf-supporting structure. Moreover, canadian patent 769,347 discloses a molding for wall panels which requires premounting the strips to a substructure by using nail6. There has not yet been provided a sub6tructure which may be self-assembled and self-supported, and which may support panels or blocks.
" ~ ';
'- ' 204~377 An object of the present invention is to provide structural building units which may form a self-supporting framework structure.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a self-supporting framework which may support safely panels or blocks.
A further object of ~his invention i8 to provide a structural building unit which is inexpensive, easy to install, and which will provide long la~ting walls.
Still a further object of this invention is to provide a self-supporting assembly which may be used for other purpose6 such as presentation cubicles, shelves, or assembly toy kits.
According to a first embodiment, the present invention provides a structural building unit comprising a floor having two extremities and two lateral edges, at least one of the extremities comprising first connecting means and each of the lateral edge comprising second :
connecting means adapted to mate with the first connecting means of a another similar unit disposed .
substantially at a 90 degree angle, -~-~
~, .
whereby, when the first connecting means of the other similar unit is inserted inside the second connecting ~' ', 2 ~
:- -:.
.'".. ~'', ~
20~4377 .
means, the corresponding extremity of the other similar unit abuts and is secured against the floor of the -unit. --According to a second embodiment, the present invention provides a kit compri~ing:
a first structural building unit comprising a floor having two extremities and two lateral edges, at least one of these extremities comprising first connecting ~.
means which comprise at least one indentation in each ::~
lateral edge, and . :
a second structural building unit compri~ing a floor having two lateral edges which comprise second connecting means comprising at least one wall ~ .
projecting 6ubstantially perpendicularly and extending along each of the lateral edge, each of thPse wall comprising: ~ .
a base portion projecting substantially perpendicularly and extending along the lateral edges, this base por~ion having an inner side, an outer side, and at least one lip projecting inwardly above the floor, this inner lip having an :
undersurface, the wall providing a housing space defined by the undersurface of the inner lip, the inner side of the base portion, and the floor, 3 ;~
20~377 ~`~
wherein, the housing space of the second unit is adapted to mate the indented extremity of the first unit disposed substantially at a 90 degree angle, whereby, when the indented extremity of the first unit is inserted inside the housing space of the second unit, the corresponding extremity of the first unit abuts and is secured against the floor of the second unit.
Therefore, the hereinabove mentioned objects are achieved with this invention. This structural building unit provides an easy way to assemble a self-supporting wall, capable of supporting blocks or panels, which is inexpensive and long-lasting. Moreover, this building unit may be used for a plurality of other purposes such as an assembly toy kit. -;~
~; , ~.. ,.:, In the drawing~ which illustrate examples of embodiment6 of the invention:
Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a structural building unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention; - : .
- . , : ~ . ~
, -~ ~,:...
Figure la is an exploded front plan view of another embodiment of the first and Recond connecting means according to the invention; ~: -: .,',',,' . .:
:~: ~'. ': ''--"' ' '`
_ 20~377 Figure 2 is a detailed perspective view of the connection between two units as shown in figure 1 when assembled at a 90 degree angle;
:
Figure 3 is a front perspective view of two structural building units according to a second embodiment of the preæent invention;
Figure 4 is a partial front perspective view of a third embodiment according to the present invention;
, Figure 5 is an exploded cross-section of the U-shaped :
channel and the covering strip according to a third embodiment of the invention;
~ , Figure 6 is a top plan view of a fourth embodiment of the invention used for making curved walls;
Figure 6a is a top plan view of a fifth embodiment of :~-the invention used for making curved walls;
Figure 7 i6 a top plan view of a double post covered by , a double covering strip according to a sixth embodiment of the invention;
Figlre ~ i~ a top ~ n view of a corner covered by a ~ 2044377 corner covering strip according to a seventh embodiment of the invention.
The basic structural building unit 7 according to the present invention as shown in the accompanying drawings comprises a sub6tantially plane quadrilateral floor 9 having two extremities 11 (and 11~ not shown) and two lateral edges 13 and 13'. In a general manner, the lateral edge6 13 and 13' have a length larger than the width of the extremities 11 and a thickness much ~-6maller than the width such that the unit 7 forms generally a ~trip. However, of cour~e, the lateral edge 13 and 13~ may be of the same length or shorter than the extremitie~ 11; such a reference is made for purely ; 15 pragmatic purpose6 and should not limit the invention to the particular size and shapes as herein illustrated. ; ~;
.~ " ~ .
~ As illustrated in figure 1, there is shown that at - -: .
least one extremity 11 of the unit comprises first connecting mean~ which comprise at leaat one indentation 15 and 15' provided in each of the lateral edge of the floor 13 and 13~. In addition, the lateral edges 13 and 13~ of the unit each compriseisecond connecting means which comprise a wall 17 and 17' projecting substantially perpendicularly to the floor 9 and extending along the lateral edge 13 and 13'. Figure -":
,"',' ~,''', ''''~ ''~' '' ~'' 20~4~77 1 shows one particular embodiment of this second connecting means, where there is provided two walls 17' and 17b extending along lateral edge 13', the other pair being 17 and 17a (17 a not being shown).
Particularly, along each edge 13 and 13' there is one wall projecting upwardly 17 and 17' and one wall projecting downwardly 17a and 17b, thus forming two pairs of walls. However, there may be provided only one pair of walls, but, it should be noted that each pair of walls should be projecting in the same direction with respect to the floor 9 of the unit, thus a pair of upward 17 and 17' or a pair downward walls 17a and 17b.
~ ::
Each lateral wall comprises a base portion 19 projecting substantially perpendicularly to the floor 9 of the unit 7, extending along each lateral edge 13 and 13' and one or two lips 21 and 23. The base portion 19 compri6es an inner side 25, and an outer side 27. At least one of the lips must extend inwardly above the floor of the unit, thus hereinafter referred to as the inner lip 21 and 21~. The other lip (if provided) extends outwardly and i8 identified by numeral 23 and 23'. Each of these lip possess an undersurface, the undersurface 29 and 31 of the inner lip 31 being directly above the floor 9 of the unit 7. The space provided by the undersurface of the inner lip 29, the 204~377 inner side of the base portion of the wall 25, and the floor 9 of the unit defines a hou6ing space 33 which mates with, and allows insertion of the indented extremity 11 of another similar unit. Of course, the shape of this extremity 11 must be adapted to mate with this housing space 33 when it is inserted at substantially a 90 degree angle.
It should be kept in mind that the lateral walls (17, 17', 17a, and 17b) should be ubstantially perpendicular to the floor 9 of the unit but may al80 be angled inwardly as is represented in figure la. Of course, the corresponding extremity 11 of the other similar unit, in order to mate with this housing space 33 must be shaped accordingly.
" :,.
For building an assembly 35, turning now to figure 2, a unit 37 is first disposed at a 90 degree angle (as represented by line A) from another similar unit 39 such that the indented extremity 11 of the other similar unit 39 is at the same level as the floor 9 of ~ the unit 37. The indented extremity 11 is then slipped ;~ inside the housing space 33 and is secured in a snuggle fit. However, it may still be displaced along line B.
Still, illustrated in figure 2, when the two units 37 and 39 are assembled, tilting of the unit 39 relative 20~377 ..... .
to the unit 37 is prevented by the lateral wall 17 which abuts against the wall of the other unit 17c and 17d. In this manner, the 90 degree angle will have little freedom, just enough to give the assembly some resiliency. Such an assembly will therefore be self-supporting and very resistant, capable of withstanding heavy weights and pressure.
After insertion of the other similar units, a further ;
similar unit may be inserted in the second connecting means and disposed near the other extremity of the unit 11 such that both the other and further similar units stand upright near each extremity of the unit. Later on, the second connecting means of a fourth unit may be inserted over the free indented extremities of the other and further similar units, such that the whole assembly forms a cubicle standing on it~ own. In a particular embodiment, the first and last unit disposed may have a length much larger than their width euch that it basically forms a strip on which a plurality of other similar units may be inserted upright, thus forming a plurality of cubicles standing on their own (not shown).
: ' A glass block corresponding to the dimension of the cubicles may be inserted in each of them. Preferably, the block is disposed between the first three units 20~377 before the last unit is disposed to form a closed cubicle. In this manner, the cubicle~ form a frame which supports the block while permitting light to pass through if the blocks are made of glass, plastic or any other transparent material.
Alternatively, if the second connecting means of the last unit disposed comprise a ~double-sided wall", e.g.
upward wall and downward wall as shown in figure 1 and 2, the other side of the unit 41 (which is not secured to other upright units) may be used to insert another row of other similar units and so on... In this manner, a whole framework may be built 6imply from a plurality of the~e similar units, thus allowing a plurality of blocks to be supported and therefrom building a wall.
Alternatively, in a second embodiment, there may be two ~; different types of structural building units as ;~ 20 illustrated on figure 3. In this assembly, there is provided a first unit 43 and a second unit 45 which may `-~ be interconnected to each other at substantially a 90 degree angle as presented by line A. At least one extremity 11 of the first unit 43 comprises first connecting means provided by at least one indentation 15 and 15' in each of the lateral edges 13 and 13' of the unit 43.
s : :, "
~ 20~4~77 In the second unit 45 there is provided second connecting means which mate with the first connecting means of the first unit 43 in order to interconnect and secure both units together. This second connecting mean6 comprise a wall 17 and 17' projecting sub6tantially perpendicularly along each of the lateral edges 13 and 13~ of the second unit 45. Each wall has a base portion 19 and 19~ ~and optionally l9a and l9b) projecting sub~tantially perpendicularly from the floor 9, extending along the lateral edge 13 and 13', and one or two lips 21 and 21~ (and optionally 23 and 23').
This base portion 19 comprises a inner side 25 and an outer side 27. At least one of these lips (21 and 21') must extend inwardly above the floor 9, and has an undersurface 29 as described for the previous embodiment. The 6pace provided by the under~urface 29 of the inner lip 21, the inner side of the base portion 25, and the floor 9 provides a housing space 33 which permits insertion of the indented extremity 11, of the first element 43. ~
'::
This ~econd embodiment may be as~embled for building , framework to 6upport glass blocks or the like. However, the absence of projecting walls of the lateral edges 13 and 13' of the first unit 43 may prevent the a~sembly to be self-supporting. Indeed, provision of walls (with 1 1 .
~ 20~377 .
or without inner and outer lips) along each lateral edge may obviate to this inconvenience and secure both units at a 90 degree angle by preventing tilting of the upright unit(s) 43.
The present invention may also be used to support glass plates. In a third embodiment, as presented in figure 4, the lateral walls 17 and 17~ of the structural building unit 47 presented in figure 1 or 3, must be provided with an outer lip 23 and 23' (and optionally 23a and 23b). In addition, each unit further comprise a U-shaped channel 49 projecting outwardly from the outer side 27 of the base portion of the wall, and extending along each lateral edge 13 and 13'. This channel 49 comprises a pair of parallel lip6 51 and 53, each having an upper side 55 and 57, and an inner side 59 and 61, the space between which defines an inner grove 63.
This channel 49 has a double function: 1) the outer side of the lips 55 and 57 are adapted to snugly receive one edge of a glass panel 62 disposed thereon and 2) the inner grove of the channel 63 is adapted to , ~ receive and lock a T-shaped covering strip 65. This covering strip 65 comprises a neck portion 67 descending perpendicularly to a pair of lateral arms 69 and 71, each arm being provided with a descending lip ' ''' '''''~'-:
, ' -, - ,i, " ,.,-, , " ", ,~ " ,, ,"~,,,;" """ ",, ", "", ~ ,~ " .
20~3~7 . .
73 and 75.
The neck portion 67 and the inner grove 63 of the channel may be provided with teeth as is best shown in figure 5 by numerals 77 and 79. This covering strip 65 also has a double function: when the neck portion 67 is snugly inserted into the grove 63 of the channel 49, the lips 73 and 75 projecting from its arms 69 and 71 squeeze the side edges 62 and 62' of the glass panel against the outer lip 55 and 57 of the lateral wall 17 of the unit 47. As a second function, the pair of lateral arms 73 and 75 of the covering strip 65 will hide the edges of the panels 62 and 62', thus giving the assembly a clean and attractive appearance.
Also shown in figure 5 is the detail of two glass panels 62 and 62' cqueezed between the covering strip 65 and one lateral edge 13 of the unit 47.
Particularly, since glass may be very fragile, the outer lip 23 and 23a of the wall 17 and the lateral arms 73 and 75 of the covering strip 65 may be provided with rubber plugæ 81, 83, 85, and 87 to absorb shocks and render the assembly water-tight. ~he tolerances between the grove 63 and the neck portion 67 of the covering strip 65 must be such to snugly-fit and lock together but should also allow removal of the ~trip 65 when necessary.
s~ :
2~44377 :
Still, in another embodiment adapted to make curved walls, it is possible to shape the elements such that their lateral edges 13 and 13' are curved as illustrated in figure 6 or that their extremities 11 and 11' are cut obliquely with respect to the lateral edges as repre~ented in figure 6a.
To make a double post for reinforcing the wall, it is possible to place two units adjacent to each other, between which may be disposed a wooden beam or the like to provide reinforcement, and to cover this double post with a double covering strip 165 as illustrated in figure 7. This double strip 165 consist of a pair of lateral arms 169 and 171, each arm being provided with a descending lip 173 and 175. The strip also comprise two neck portions 167 and 167~ separated from each other by a middle portion 180. This covering strip 165 cover6 the intersection between the two units, each neck portion being inserted in a respective channel 49.
It is al80 possible to build a corner as illustrated in figure 8, by providing a corner covering strip 265 which i6 also double but of which the middle portion 280 has a 90 degree angle such that the neck portions 267 extend outwardly at the same angle. Two units 9 dispo6ed at this angle are 6ecured thereby by the ~` -~::
.-.,- ... - . ,. .. . , .. , : - . ; .. . , . ., . . . , . . . . .. .. . ~ : .
20~4377 insertion of the neck portions 267 in their respective channel 49.
All of these units may be fabricated by injection molding techniques with vinyl polymer~ or any other suitable resilient material as will appear obvious to anyone skilled in this domain.
~ ..
.
!
lS
~ ' ' "
SELF-SUPPORTING STRUCTURAL ASSEMBLY AND
BUILDING UNITS FOR MAKING THE SAME.
This invention relates generally to structural building units which may be interconnected together to form a framework structure for mounting and supporting glass panels or other kinds of panels like acrylic, wood, or gla6s blocks.
There have been described many structural joint elements to form partition walls or the like. Most of the~e elements do not allow the construction of a supporting wall ~ince the elements are not designed to support panels or blocks. Most structural joint 1~ elements for panels that have been described need the support of a structural wall in order to be mounted or ~upported. For example, Canadian patent 1,208,872 discloses a joint element which must be fir~t mounted on columns or rafters. These elements do not provide a ;~ 20 6elf-supporting structure. Moreover, canadian patent 769,347 discloses a molding for wall panels which requires premounting the strips to a substructure by using nail6. There has not yet been provided a sub6tructure which may be self-assembled and self-supported, and which may support panels or blocks.
" ~ ';
'- ' 204~377 An object of the present invention is to provide structural building units which may form a self-supporting framework structure.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a self-supporting framework which may support safely panels or blocks.
A further object of ~his invention i8 to provide a structural building unit which is inexpensive, easy to install, and which will provide long la~ting walls.
Still a further object of this invention is to provide a self-supporting assembly which may be used for other purpose6 such as presentation cubicles, shelves, or assembly toy kits.
According to a first embodiment, the present invention provides a structural building unit comprising a floor having two extremities and two lateral edges, at least one of the extremities comprising first connecting means and each of the lateral edge comprising second :
connecting means adapted to mate with the first connecting means of a another similar unit disposed .
substantially at a 90 degree angle, -~-~
~, .
whereby, when the first connecting means of the other similar unit is inserted inside the second connecting ~' ', 2 ~
:- -:.
.'".. ~'', ~
20~4377 .
means, the corresponding extremity of the other similar unit abuts and is secured against the floor of the -unit. --According to a second embodiment, the present invention provides a kit compri~ing:
a first structural building unit comprising a floor having two extremities and two lateral edges, at least one of these extremities comprising first connecting ~.
means which comprise at least one indentation in each ::~
lateral edge, and . :
a second structural building unit compri~ing a floor having two lateral edges which comprise second connecting means comprising at least one wall ~ .
projecting 6ubstantially perpendicularly and extending along each of the lateral edge, each of thPse wall comprising: ~ .
a base portion projecting substantially perpendicularly and extending along the lateral edges, this base por~ion having an inner side, an outer side, and at least one lip projecting inwardly above the floor, this inner lip having an :
undersurface, the wall providing a housing space defined by the undersurface of the inner lip, the inner side of the base portion, and the floor, 3 ;~
20~377 ~`~
wherein, the housing space of the second unit is adapted to mate the indented extremity of the first unit disposed substantially at a 90 degree angle, whereby, when the indented extremity of the first unit is inserted inside the housing space of the second unit, the corresponding extremity of the first unit abuts and is secured against the floor of the second unit.
Therefore, the hereinabove mentioned objects are achieved with this invention. This structural building unit provides an easy way to assemble a self-supporting wall, capable of supporting blocks or panels, which is inexpensive and long-lasting. Moreover, this building unit may be used for a plurality of other purposes such as an assembly toy kit. -;~
~; , ~.. ,.:, In the drawing~ which illustrate examples of embodiment6 of the invention:
Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a structural building unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention; - : .
- . , : ~ . ~
, -~ ~,:...
Figure la is an exploded front plan view of another embodiment of the first and Recond connecting means according to the invention; ~: -: .,',',,' . .:
:~: ~'. ': ''--"' ' '`
_ 20~377 Figure 2 is a detailed perspective view of the connection between two units as shown in figure 1 when assembled at a 90 degree angle;
:
Figure 3 is a front perspective view of two structural building units according to a second embodiment of the preæent invention;
Figure 4 is a partial front perspective view of a third embodiment according to the present invention;
, Figure 5 is an exploded cross-section of the U-shaped :
channel and the covering strip according to a third embodiment of the invention;
~ , Figure 6 is a top plan view of a fourth embodiment of the invention used for making curved walls;
Figure 6a is a top plan view of a fifth embodiment of :~-the invention used for making curved walls;
Figure 7 i6 a top plan view of a double post covered by , a double covering strip according to a sixth embodiment of the invention;
Figlre ~ i~ a top ~ n view of a corner covered by a ~ 2044377 corner covering strip according to a seventh embodiment of the invention.
The basic structural building unit 7 according to the present invention as shown in the accompanying drawings comprises a sub6tantially plane quadrilateral floor 9 having two extremities 11 (and 11~ not shown) and two lateral edges 13 and 13'. In a general manner, the lateral edge6 13 and 13' have a length larger than the width of the extremities 11 and a thickness much ~-6maller than the width such that the unit 7 forms generally a ~trip. However, of cour~e, the lateral edge 13 and 13~ may be of the same length or shorter than the extremitie~ 11; such a reference is made for purely ; 15 pragmatic purpose6 and should not limit the invention to the particular size and shapes as herein illustrated. ; ~;
.~ " ~ .
~ As illustrated in figure 1, there is shown that at - -: .
least one extremity 11 of the unit comprises first connecting mean~ which comprise at leaat one indentation 15 and 15' provided in each of the lateral edge of the floor 13 and 13~. In addition, the lateral edges 13 and 13~ of the unit each compriseisecond connecting means which comprise a wall 17 and 17' projecting substantially perpendicularly to the floor 9 and extending along the lateral edge 13 and 13'. Figure -":
,"',' ~,''', ''''~ ''~' '' ~'' 20~4~77 1 shows one particular embodiment of this second connecting means, where there is provided two walls 17' and 17b extending along lateral edge 13', the other pair being 17 and 17a (17 a not being shown).
Particularly, along each edge 13 and 13' there is one wall projecting upwardly 17 and 17' and one wall projecting downwardly 17a and 17b, thus forming two pairs of walls. However, there may be provided only one pair of walls, but, it should be noted that each pair of walls should be projecting in the same direction with respect to the floor 9 of the unit, thus a pair of upward 17 and 17' or a pair downward walls 17a and 17b.
~ ::
Each lateral wall comprises a base portion 19 projecting substantially perpendicularly to the floor 9 of the unit 7, extending along each lateral edge 13 and 13' and one or two lips 21 and 23. The base portion 19 compri6es an inner side 25, and an outer side 27. At least one of the lips must extend inwardly above the floor of the unit, thus hereinafter referred to as the inner lip 21 and 21~. The other lip (if provided) extends outwardly and i8 identified by numeral 23 and 23'. Each of these lip possess an undersurface, the undersurface 29 and 31 of the inner lip 31 being directly above the floor 9 of the unit 7. The space provided by the undersurface of the inner lip 29, the 204~377 inner side of the base portion of the wall 25, and the floor 9 of the unit defines a hou6ing space 33 which mates with, and allows insertion of the indented extremity 11 of another similar unit. Of course, the shape of this extremity 11 must be adapted to mate with this housing space 33 when it is inserted at substantially a 90 degree angle.
It should be kept in mind that the lateral walls (17, 17', 17a, and 17b) should be ubstantially perpendicular to the floor 9 of the unit but may al80 be angled inwardly as is represented in figure la. Of course, the corresponding extremity 11 of the other similar unit, in order to mate with this housing space 33 must be shaped accordingly.
" :,.
For building an assembly 35, turning now to figure 2, a unit 37 is first disposed at a 90 degree angle (as represented by line A) from another similar unit 39 such that the indented extremity 11 of the other similar unit 39 is at the same level as the floor 9 of ~ the unit 37. The indented extremity 11 is then slipped ;~ inside the housing space 33 and is secured in a snuggle fit. However, it may still be displaced along line B.
Still, illustrated in figure 2, when the two units 37 and 39 are assembled, tilting of the unit 39 relative 20~377 ..... .
to the unit 37 is prevented by the lateral wall 17 which abuts against the wall of the other unit 17c and 17d. In this manner, the 90 degree angle will have little freedom, just enough to give the assembly some resiliency. Such an assembly will therefore be self-supporting and very resistant, capable of withstanding heavy weights and pressure.
After insertion of the other similar units, a further ;
similar unit may be inserted in the second connecting means and disposed near the other extremity of the unit 11 such that both the other and further similar units stand upright near each extremity of the unit. Later on, the second connecting means of a fourth unit may be inserted over the free indented extremities of the other and further similar units, such that the whole assembly forms a cubicle standing on it~ own. In a particular embodiment, the first and last unit disposed may have a length much larger than their width euch that it basically forms a strip on which a plurality of other similar units may be inserted upright, thus forming a plurality of cubicles standing on their own (not shown).
: ' A glass block corresponding to the dimension of the cubicles may be inserted in each of them. Preferably, the block is disposed between the first three units 20~377 before the last unit is disposed to form a closed cubicle. In this manner, the cubicle~ form a frame which supports the block while permitting light to pass through if the blocks are made of glass, plastic or any other transparent material.
Alternatively, if the second connecting means of the last unit disposed comprise a ~double-sided wall", e.g.
upward wall and downward wall as shown in figure 1 and 2, the other side of the unit 41 (which is not secured to other upright units) may be used to insert another row of other similar units and so on... In this manner, a whole framework may be built 6imply from a plurality of the~e similar units, thus allowing a plurality of blocks to be supported and therefrom building a wall.
Alternatively, in a second embodiment, there may be two ~; different types of structural building units as ;~ 20 illustrated on figure 3. In this assembly, there is provided a first unit 43 and a second unit 45 which may `-~ be interconnected to each other at substantially a 90 degree angle as presented by line A. At least one extremity 11 of the first unit 43 comprises first connecting means provided by at least one indentation 15 and 15' in each of the lateral edges 13 and 13' of the unit 43.
s : :, "
~ 20~4~77 In the second unit 45 there is provided second connecting means which mate with the first connecting means of the first unit 43 in order to interconnect and secure both units together. This second connecting mean6 comprise a wall 17 and 17' projecting sub6tantially perpendicularly along each of the lateral edges 13 and 13~ of the second unit 45. Each wall has a base portion 19 and 19~ ~and optionally l9a and l9b) projecting sub~tantially perpendicularly from the floor 9, extending along the lateral edge 13 and 13', and one or two lips 21 and 21~ (and optionally 23 and 23').
This base portion 19 comprises a inner side 25 and an outer side 27. At least one of these lips (21 and 21') must extend inwardly above the floor 9, and has an undersurface 29 as described for the previous embodiment. The 6pace provided by the under~urface 29 of the inner lip 21, the inner side of the base portion 25, and the floor 9 provides a housing space 33 which permits insertion of the indented extremity 11, of the first element 43. ~
'::
This ~econd embodiment may be as~embled for building , framework to 6upport glass blocks or the like. However, the absence of projecting walls of the lateral edges 13 and 13' of the first unit 43 may prevent the a~sembly to be self-supporting. Indeed, provision of walls (with 1 1 .
~ 20~377 .
or without inner and outer lips) along each lateral edge may obviate to this inconvenience and secure both units at a 90 degree angle by preventing tilting of the upright unit(s) 43.
The present invention may also be used to support glass plates. In a third embodiment, as presented in figure 4, the lateral walls 17 and 17~ of the structural building unit 47 presented in figure 1 or 3, must be provided with an outer lip 23 and 23' (and optionally 23a and 23b). In addition, each unit further comprise a U-shaped channel 49 projecting outwardly from the outer side 27 of the base portion of the wall, and extending along each lateral edge 13 and 13'. This channel 49 comprises a pair of parallel lip6 51 and 53, each having an upper side 55 and 57, and an inner side 59 and 61, the space between which defines an inner grove 63.
This channel 49 has a double function: 1) the outer side of the lips 55 and 57 are adapted to snugly receive one edge of a glass panel 62 disposed thereon and 2) the inner grove of the channel 63 is adapted to , ~ receive and lock a T-shaped covering strip 65. This covering strip 65 comprises a neck portion 67 descending perpendicularly to a pair of lateral arms 69 and 71, each arm being provided with a descending lip ' ''' '''''~'-:
, ' -, - ,i, " ,.,-, , " ", ,~ " ,, ,"~,,,;" """ ",, ", "", ~ ,~ " .
20~3~7 . .
73 and 75.
The neck portion 67 and the inner grove 63 of the channel may be provided with teeth as is best shown in figure 5 by numerals 77 and 79. This covering strip 65 also has a double function: when the neck portion 67 is snugly inserted into the grove 63 of the channel 49, the lips 73 and 75 projecting from its arms 69 and 71 squeeze the side edges 62 and 62' of the glass panel against the outer lip 55 and 57 of the lateral wall 17 of the unit 47. As a second function, the pair of lateral arms 73 and 75 of the covering strip 65 will hide the edges of the panels 62 and 62', thus giving the assembly a clean and attractive appearance.
Also shown in figure 5 is the detail of two glass panels 62 and 62' cqueezed between the covering strip 65 and one lateral edge 13 of the unit 47.
Particularly, since glass may be very fragile, the outer lip 23 and 23a of the wall 17 and the lateral arms 73 and 75 of the covering strip 65 may be provided with rubber plugæ 81, 83, 85, and 87 to absorb shocks and render the assembly water-tight. ~he tolerances between the grove 63 and the neck portion 67 of the covering strip 65 must be such to snugly-fit and lock together but should also allow removal of the ~trip 65 when necessary.
s~ :
2~44377 :
Still, in another embodiment adapted to make curved walls, it is possible to shape the elements such that their lateral edges 13 and 13' are curved as illustrated in figure 6 or that their extremities 11 and 11' are cut obliquely with respect to the lateral edges as repre~ented in figure 6a.
To make a double post for reinforcing the wall, it is possible to place two units adjacent to each other, between which may be disposed a wooden beam or the like to provide reinforcement, and to cover this double post with a double covering strip 165 as illustrated in figure 7. This double strip 165 consist of a pair of lateral arms 169 and 171, each arm being provided with a descending lip 173 and 175. The strip also comprise two neck portions 167 and 167~ separated from each other by a middle portion 180. This covering strip 165 cover6 the intersection between the two units, each neck portion being inserted in a respective channel 49.
It is al80 possible to build a corner as illustrated in figure 8, by providing a corner covering strip 265 which i6 also double but of which the middle portion 280 has a 90 degree angle such that the neck portions 267 extend outwardly at the same angle. Two units 9 dispo6ed at this angle are 6ecured thereby by the ~` -~::
.-.,- ... - . ,. .. . , .. , : - . ; .. . , . ., . . . , . . . . .. .. . ~ : .
20~4377 insertion of the neck portions 267 in their respective channel 49.
All of these units may be fabricated by injection molding techniques with vinyl polymer~ or any other suitable resilient material as will appear obvious to anyone skilled in this domain.
~ ..
.
!
lS
~ ' ' "
Claims (13)
1. A structural building unit comprising a floor having two extremities and two lateral edges, at least one of said extremities comprising first connecting means and each of said lateral edge comprising second connecting means adapted to mate with the first connecting means of another similar unit disposed substantially at a 90 degree angle, whereby, when said first connecting means of said other similar unit is inserted inside said second connecting means, the corresponding extremity of said other similar unit abuts and is secured against said floor of said unit.
2. A structural building unit according to claim 1, wherein said first connecting means comprise at least one indentation in each lateral edge, and said second connecting means comprise at least one wall projecting substantially perpendicularly and extending along each of said lateral edge, said at least one wall comprising:
a base portion projecting substantially perpendicularly and extending along said longitudinal edges, said base portion having an inner side,an outer side, and at least one lip projecting inwardly above said floor, said inner lip having an undersurface, said wall providing a housing space defined by the undersurface of said inner lip, the inner side of said base portion, and said floor, wherein, said housing space of a unit is adapted to receive said indented extremity of another similar unit disposed at substantially a 90 degree angle, whereby, when said indented extremity of said other similar unit is inserted inside said housing space, the corresponding extremity of said other similar unit abuts and is secured against the floor of said unit.
a base portion projecting substantially perpendicularly and extending along said longitudinal edges, said base portion having an inner side,an outer side, and at least one lip projecting inwardly above said floor, said inner lip having an undersurface, said wall providing a housing space defined by the undersurface of said inner lip, the inner side of said base portion, and said floor, wherein, said housing space of a unit is adapted to receive said indented extremity of another similar unit disposed at substantially a 90 degree angle, whereby, when said indented extremity of said other similar unit is inserted inside said housing space, the corresponding extremity of said other similar unit abuts and is secured against the floor of said unit.
3. A structural building unit according to claim 2, wherein said unit further comprises a U-shaped channel comprising two parallel lips projecting outwardly from said outer side of said base portion and extending along said lateral edges of said unit, each of said lip having an outer surface, an inner surface, the space between the inner surface of the lips defining a grove, wherein said outer surface of said lip is adapted to receive one peripheral edge of a glass panel in a snugly-fit fashion.
4. A structural building unit according to claim 3, wherein said inner grove of said U-shaped channel is formed with a series of teeth.
5. A structural building unit according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the outer lip of said wall is covered with a shock-absorbing, water-tight sealing material.
6. A kit comprising:
a structural building unit according to claim 3 or 4, and a substantially T-shaped cross-section covering strip comprising a neck portion projecting perpendicularly to an integral pair of lateral arms, wherein said neck portion of said covering strip is adapted to be snugly inserted and locked into said channel of said lateral edges, whereby, when said neck portion of strip is inserted in said channel, said channel and walls are hidden by said arms of said covering strip.
a structural building unit according to claim 3 or 4, and a substantially T-shaped cross-section covering strip comprising a neck portion projecting perpendicularly to an integral pair of lateral arms, wherein said neck portion of said covering strip is adapted to be snugly inserted and locked into said channel of said lateral edges, whereby, when said neck portion of strip is inserted in said channel, said channel and walls are hidden by said arms of said covering strip.
7. A self-supporting framework structure for mounting blocks, or the like comprising at least four units as claimed in claim 1, 2, 3, or 4, wherein said units are adapted to be interconnected to form at least one frame-like structure, whereby, when said units are interconnected, each of said at least one frame-like structure may enclose and support one of said blocks or the like.
8. A kit comprising:
a first structural building unit comprising a floor having two extremities and two lateral edges, at least one of said extremities comprising first connecting means which comprise at least one indentation in each lateral edge, and a second structural building unit comprising a floor having two lateral edges which comprise second connecting means comprising at least one wall projecting substantially perpendicularly and extending along each of said lateral edge, each of said wall comprising:
a base portion projecting substantially perpendicularly and extending along said lateral edges, said base portion having an inner side, an outer side, and at least one lip projecting inwardly above said floor, said inner lip having an undersurface, said wall providing a housing space defined by the undersurface of said inner lip, the inner side of said base portion, and said floor, wherein, said housing space of said second unit is adapted to mate with said indented extremity of said first unit disposed at substantially a 90 degree angle, whereby, when said indented extremity of said first unit is inserted inside said housing space of said second unit, the corresponding extremity of said first unit abuts and is secured against the floor of said second unit.
a first structural building unit comprising a floor having two extremities and two lateral edges, at least one of said extremities comprising first connecting means which comprise at least one indentation in each lateral edge, and a second structural building unit comprising a floor having two lateral edges which comprise second connecting means comprising at least one wall projecting substantially perpendicularly and extending along each of said lateral edge, each of said wall comprising:
a base portion projecting substantially perpendicularly and extending along said lateral edges, said base portion having an inner side, an outer side, and at least one lip projecting inwardly above said floor, said inner lip having an undersurface, said wall providing a housing space defined by the undersurface of said inner lip, the inner side of said base portion, and said floor, wherein, said housing space of said second unit is adapted to mate with said indented extremity of said first unit disposed at substantially a 90 degree angle, whereby, when said indented extremity of said first unit is inserted inside said housing space of said second unit, the corresponding extremity of said first unit abuts and is secured against the floor of said second unit.
9. A kit according to claim 8, wherein said first and second unit further comprise a U-shaped channel comprising two parallel lips projecting outwardly from said outer side of said neck portion and extending along said lateral edges of said unit, each of said lip having an outer surface, and an inner surface, the space between the inner surface of the lips defining a grove, wherein said outer surface of said lip is adapted to receive one peripheral edge of a glass panel in a snugly-fit fashion.
10. A kit according to claim 9, further comprising a substantially T-shaped cross-section covering strip comprising a neck portion projecting perpendicularly to an integral pair of lateral arms, wherein said neck portion of said covering strip is adapted to be inserted into said channel of said lateral edges, whereby, when said neck portion of strip is inserted in said channel, said channel and wall is hidden by said arms of said covering strip.
11. A kit according to claim 10, wherein said neck portion of said covering strip comprises two outer faces being formed with a series of teeth.
12. A kit according to claim 10, wherein said arm of said covering strip is covered with a shock-absorbing, water-tight sealing material.
13. A self-supporting framework structure assembly for mounting at least one panel or the like comprising at least two units as claimed in claim 10, 11, or 12, wherein said units are adapted to be interconnected to form at least one frame-like structure, whereby, when said edge of said at least one panel is supported by said outer side of said lip, and said neck portion of covering strip is inserted inside said channel, said panels is squeezed between said arm of said strip, said outer lip of said channel, and said6 outer lip of said margin, such that said panel is secured to said framework structure.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2044377 CA2044377C (en) | 1991-06-12 | 1991-06-12 | Self-supporting structural assembly and building units for making the same |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2044377 CA2044377C (en) | 1991-06-12 | 1991-06-12 | Self-supporting structural assembly and building units for making the same |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2044377A1 CA2044377A1 (en) | 1992-12-13 |
| CA2044377C true CA2044377C (en) | 1994-07-05 |
Family
ID=4147792
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2044377 Expired - Fee Related CA2044377C (en) | 1991-06-12 | 1991-06-12 | Self-supporting structural assembly and building units for making the same |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2044377C (en) |
-
1991
- 1991-06-12 CA CA 2044377 patent/CA2044377C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2044377A1 (en) | 1992-12-13 |
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