GB2505673A

GB2505673A - Expandable building assembly comprising outwardly moving walls.

Info

Publication number: GB2505673A
Application number: GB201215928A
Authority: GB
Inventors: David Martyn
Original assignee: Ten Fold Engineering Ltd
Current assignee: Ten Fold Engineering Ltd
Priority date: 2012-09-06
Filing date: 2012-09-06
Publication date: 2014-03-12
Anticipated expiration: 2032-09-06
Also published as: WO2014037689A1; GB2505673B; GB201215928D0

Abstract

The expandable building assembly 2 comprises: a floor assembly; a roof and wall between the roof and the floor. The wall 80 comprises a member configured to pivotally rotate about an axis perpendicular to the floor between a retracted and extended configuration. In the extended configuration the member extends to define an angle between it and the edge of the floor, further expansion walls may be nested within the first expansion wall. Also claimed is a building assembly incorporating an expandable roof assembly by raising edges of the roof assembly. Also claimed is an assembly which moves from a retracted to extended configuration and all of the components movements being powered by a single source of potential energy. Also claimed is a building where expansion of a second component is powered by expansion of a first component. Also claimed is a building where components move sequentially. Also claimed is a system for deploying a load from a surface comprising leg assemblies.

Description

AN EXPANDABLE BUILDING

The present invention relates to an expandable building assembly and means for transporting and deploying the same. The building assembly of the present invention is suitable for being transported by road, in particular in the form of a container.

House design and building methods are traditionally the result of evolution and the use of local materials. Site-built houses are the most basic example with most value being added by locally applied labour. Such houses seek to be durable and to be maintainable. Traditionally such houses are intended to provide shelter and, in recent years, to make increasingly efficient use of energy and other resources.

More recently, pre-fabrication of the key components of such houses has introduced production line techniques to house building, often in the form of panel builds and complete roof cassettes. This has now been extended to volume build methods, whereby the whole building, albeit on linkable modular form, is constructed away from the site and transported to the site for erection and installation. In parallel to this mainstream house building sector, the mobile/static home (park home) has often been used because of its comparatively low cost and ease of deployment.

Such houses are generally placed in close juxtaposition and are neither durable nor easily financed.

As the cost of housing in many countries continues to rise, the ability of buyers to raise adequate resources to purchase a house has continued to fall. As a result there are whole sectors of communities which are unable to own property or even to find affordable rental properties, especially in convenient locations. In order to address this problem, it is necessary to make available to such sectors housing which offers the quality of a built home while maintaining the overheads structure of a park home. Such a design, if it can be made durable and repairable, will retain its value and may be relocated at any time onto more suitable or more available land.

I

There is a need for an improved design of building that cost effective to construct and erect. Preferably, the building is formed from an assembly that can be easily transported, most preferably by road, to the site and erected or deployed with minimum time and effort.

Building structures have one or more collapsible or folding sections are known in the art. Examples of such assemblies are disclosed in the following: US 3,360,891 discloses an extendable portable house. The building comprises a floor, a roof and a plurality of walls, of largely conventional arrangement.

To allow the building to be expanded, a wall is provided with a foldable floor member for providing the floor of the expanded portion of the building, the foldable floor member being hingedly attached to the building and able to fold down from a vertical position to a horizontal position. Foldable wall members are provided comprising a plurality of hingedly attached panels. The wall members are hingedly attached to the floor member. A moveable covering member forms part of the wall of the building, when in the collapsed condition, and a covering for the expanded portion of the building.

US 3,383,880 concerns a folding house trailer. The trailer comprises box-liked end sections pivotably mounted to the floor of the trailer. The end sections when folded nest within each other. The end sections when extended forming the end portions of the building. Foldable side walls and a foldable roof are provided, which nest within the end sections, when in the folded state, and can be extended to complete the side walls and roof between the extended end sections.

A foldable mobile house is described and shown in US 3,862,526. The house is provided collapsed into a conventional trailer box-like shape for transportation by road. The house comprises components for being unfolded to form an A-frame construction. In particular, the house comprises a base support structure forming a floor member. A foldable floor extension structure is provided with a hinge member, allowing the floor extension to move in a place parallel to the base. A plurality of side wall members are provided which, in the transportable position lie perpendicular to the base and, in the deployed position, lie at an angle to the base to form an A-frame configuration. Seals are provided along the edges of the side wall members.

US 3,983,665 discloses a foldable and transportable building. The building is provided in two folded assemblies, each forming one half of the completed building.

The building comprises side walls, foldable end walls and foldable roof sections. In their unfolded position, these sections form a saw-tooth configuration.

An expandable mobile building is also disclosed in US 4,155,204. The building is transportable in its collapsed state, in particular forming a trailer for an articulated vehicle. The building comprises a central, generally rectangular container body, from which booms may be extended to provide means to deploy the building into its extended state and provide support for the walls and roof members. Floor, roof and wall sections are provided in a collapsed state vertically at the sides of the container. These sections are extended laterally of the container and are supported by the booms. Additional support is provided by legs extending from the outermost wall sections to the ground, when the building is fully extended.

US 4,653,412 discloses a similar foldable building transportable in the form of a stackable container. The container may be deployed from its trailer after transportation to the site by means of jacks. A plurality of foldable, hinged members are held in a vertical orientation within the container in the collapsed state. These members are deployed from the sides of the container to form the floor, side walls and roof of the building. Booms extending from the container are used to deploy the structure.

A transportable modular house is described and shown in US 5,094,048. The house is of a fixed construction and is transportable on a trailer. A rotatable bearing is mounted between the house and the trailer, allowing the house to rotate with respect to the trailer. Each corner of the house is provided with an extensible supporting member for raising and lowering the house onto the trailer for transportation. The house is generally elongate in shape and the trailer is first introduced under the house in a transverse orientation. The support members are raised, lowering the house onto the trailer. The bearing is use to rotate the house to align with the trailer, for transport by road.

US 5,170,901 discloses a transportable construction element in the form of a container. The container comprises a hinged panel moveable between a closed position, in which the panel extends vertically at the side of the container, and an open position, in which the panel extends horizontally from the floor of the container.

An internal structure comprising an upper or roof panel, a front panel and two side panels is moveable between an inserted position, in which it lies within the container, and an extended position, in which it lies on the hinged panel, with the hinged panel forming a floor for the internal structure. A container may comprise two such assemblies, one extendable from each side of the container.

An expandable/retractable portable structure is shown and described in us 5,265,394. In its retracted position, the structure is able to be transported on public highways. The structure comprises a stationary or fixed portion and a moveable portion. The moveable portion is pivotally attached to the fixed portion. In the retracted position, the moveable portion encloses the fixed portion. In the expanded position, the moveable portion and stationary portion together provide the structure.

A winch is provided to move the moveable portion between the expanded and retracted positions. In particular, the moveable portion comprises three sections, the first section forming a floor member in the expanded position and overlying a side of the stationary portion in the retracted position. The second section forms a wall when expanded and overlies the roof of the stationary portion, when retracted.

Finally, the third section of the moveable portion forms a roof when expanded and overlies and encloses the opposing side of the stationary portion when retracted.

A foldable portable building is described and shown in US 5,596,844. The building is arranged to collapse and fit within a internationally standardised goods container. The building comprises a plurality of roof, floor and wall members arranged to fold into the container, so as to lie vertically therewithin. The roof and floor members lie outermost and are extendible to form the floor and roof of the building. A plurality of wall members are interconnected so as to extend in a concertina manner from within the container, to complete the building.

S

There is a need for an improved arrangement of foldable building assembly, which is simple to construct, can be transported by road to the required location, is simple and quick to deploy and provides sufficient accommodation when extended.

It would be particularly advantageous if the assembly could be of a configuration that, when retracted, is the size of a standard commercial goods container that is readily transported by road. Such containers, known as ISO containers or intermodal containers, are provided in standard sizes. For many countries, standard sizes for such containers are nominally 8 feet (2.4 meters) wide, 8 feet (2.4 meters) high and have lengths of 20 feet (6.1 meters) or 40 feet (12.2 meters). Containers of greater nominal length may be used in some countries, for example the USA where containers up to 48 feet (14.63 meters) and 53 feet (16.15 meters) are also available. Such containers are hereinafter referred to as standard commercial containers'.

In a first aspect, the present invention provides an expandable building assembly, the building assembly having a retracted position, in which the building has a first volume, and an extended position, in which the building has a second volume, greater than the first, the assembly comprising: a floor assembly having a boundary comprising a plurality of edges in the retracted position; a roof assembly; a wall comprising a wall assembly extending between the floor assembly and the roof assembly; the wall assembly comprising a first wall member pivotably mounted at one edge, the first wall member being pivotable about an axis perpendicular to the floor assembly and moveable between the retracted position, in which the wall member lies within the boundary of the floor assembly, and the extended position, in which the wall member extends outwards from the boundary of the floor assembly at an angle to the edge of the floor assembly.

The building assembly of the present invention is an expandable building comprising a floor assembly. The floor assembly has a boundary defined by a plurality of edges when the building is in the retracted position. The floor assembly may be of any desired shape. Preferably, the floor assembly is rectangular in plan view when in the retracted position. In particular, the floor assembly most preferably has a shape and configuration the same as or less than the footprint of a standard commercial container. The floor assembly may have any suitable structure, for example a frame supporting a floor, preferably with one or more layers of insulation.

The floor assembly may be of a fixed configuration or may have one or more sections that allow the floor assembly to be extended in area to accommodate the increase in floor space provided by the wall assembly when in the extended position, as described in more detail hereinafter.

The building assembly further comprises a roof assembly. As with the floor assembly, the roof assembly may be of any desired shape. Preferably, the roof assembly is rectangular in plan view in the retracted position. As with the floor assembly, the roof assembly has a shape and configuration the same as the footprint of a standard commercial container.

The roof assembly may be fixed or may have one or more sections that allow the roof assembly to be extended laterally in area to accommodate the increase in space provided by the wall assembly when in the extended position, as described in more detail hereinafter. The roof assembly may also be extendable in the vertical direction, to increase the vertical height of the interior of the building, as will be described in more detail below.

I

The building assembly of the present invention further comprises a wall, more typically a plurality of walls. The walls typically extend vertically between the floor and roof assemblies. In particular, when the assembly is of the size and configuration of a standard commercial container, the assembly will comprise four vertical walls, in particular two opposing end walls and two opposing side walls.

The building assembly has a wall comprising one or more wall assemblies. A wall assembly of the building assembly comprises a moveable wall member. The wall member is mounted so as to be moveable, in particular pivotable about an axis perpendicular to the floor assembly about one edge, between a retracted position and an extended position. In the retracted position, the wall member lies within the boundary of the floor assembly. Preferably, when in the retracted position, the wall member lies parallel to the wall. Preferably, when in the retracted position, the wall member lies in the plane of the wall of the building. The wall member is moveable by being pivoted at one edge about the axis perpendicular to the floor assembly between the retracted position and the extended position. In the extended position, the wall member extends at an angle to the respective edge of the boundary of the floor assembly. In particular, in the extended position, the wall member extends at an acute angle to the edge of the floor assembly. The angle at which the wall member extends may be any suitable angle less than 90° to the edge of the floor assembly. Preferably, the wall member extends at an angle to the edge of the floor assembly in the range of from 5 to 85°, more preferably from 10 to 75°, still more preferably from l5to 65°. An angle in the range of from 2Oto 50° is preferred for many embodiments. In one particularly preferred embodiment, the wall member extends at an angle of from 20 to 30°, more particular from about 20 to 25°.

The wall member may comprise a portion of one wall of the building.

Alternatively, the wall member may make up one entire wall and extend the full length of one side of the building.

In the extended position, the wall member extends laterally outwards at an angle from the building, thus increasing the space within the building. In this position, the wall member extends beyond the boundary of the floor assembly and that of the roof assembly. Accordingly, it is preferable to provide both floor and/or roof members to extend between the wall member in its extended position and the floor and roof assemblies. These may be as follows.

Any suitable floor member may be provided to extend between the lower edge of the wall member and the floor assembly. Preferably, the floor member is moveable between a retracted or stowed position and an extended position, in which it extends between the wall member and the floor assembly. The floor member may extend horizontally and be moveable horizontally between the stowed and extended positions. In one preferred embodiment, a floor member is provided and mounted to pivot between a stowed position and a horizontal position. The floor member may be pivotably mounted to a lower portion of the wall member. More preferably, the floor member is pivotably mounted to the floor assembly, in particular to an edge portion of the floor assembly. In this way, the wall member may be first moved into the extended position, with the floor member then being pivoted down from its stowed position to extend horizontally from the floor assembly to the wall member. The floor member is preferably substantially vertical when in the stowed position. In this way, the area of the floor assembly within the building when in the retracted position is largely unobstructed by the floor member.

Similarly, any suitable form of roof member may be provided to extend between the roof assembly and the wall member, when in the extended position.

The roof member may be pivotably mounted, analogous to the arrangements described above for the floor member. However, a preferred arrangement is to have the roof member be mounted to the wall member and extend inwards from the upper portion of the wall member, preferably substantially horizontally. In this way, the roof member is moved from its retracted position, in which it is within the boundary of the floor assembly, to its extended position together with the wall member.

Each of the floor and roof members may be a single member or comprise a plurality of sub-members, for example a plurality of sub-members interlinked to form the floor and/or roof member when in the extended position. In embodiments in which one or both of the floor and roof members are single members and moveable horizontally or substantially horizontally between the stowed and extended positions, the angle to which the wall member may be moved may be limited by the available width of the building assembly when in the retracted position.

In addition, it is preferred to provide an end wall member to extend from the free edge of the wall member, that is the edge opposing the edge about which the wall member pivots, and complete the wall enclosure of the building. Again, any suitable end wall member may be provided. Preferably, the end wall member is mounted to extend from a retracted position, in which it lies within the boundary of the floor assembly, to an extended position, in which it extends outwards from the floor assembly. The end wall member may be mounted to the wall member, preferably pivotably mounted thereto. Alternatively, the end wall member may be mounted to pivot at an edge about an axis extending between the floor and roof assemblies.

The end wall member may comprise a single wall member or a plurality of wall members, for example hingedly attached wall portions. For example, the end wall member may comprise a plurality of wall portions hingedly attached to one another so as to move between the retracted position and the extended position in a concertina manner.

The building assembly may comprise one or more of the aforementioned wall assemblies in one or more walls of the building, each of which may be extended to increase the space within the building, as described above. In particular, two or more of the walls of the building may comprise one or more moveable wall assemblies as described above. In particular, the building assembly may comprise one or a plurality of such wall assemblies in one wall of the building. In one embodiment, at least one wall of the building is provided with a plurality of independent wall assemblies, that is a plurality of wall assemblies of the type described above and which are moveable between their retracted and extended positions independently of one another.

In one preferred arrangement, two or more wall assemblies of the building are arranged in a nested arrangement. In this respect, a first wall assembly is provided with a second wall assembly mounted to it, such that the wall member of the first wall assembly is provided with a portion that forms a wall member of the second wall assembly. The second wall assembly is moveable with the first wall assembly first from the retracted position to the extended position of the first wall assembly, forming an intermediate position for the second wall assembly, and from there to an extended position in which the wall member of the second wall assembly extends at an angle to the wall member of the first wall assembly.

Alternatively or in addition, the second wall assembly may be extendable from the first wall assembly with the first wall assembly in the retracted position. This arrangement provides greater flexibility in the shape and configuration of the building.

When extended, the wall member of the second wall assembly extends at an angle to the wall member of the first wall assembly, the wall member of the second wall assembly may extend at any suitable angle to the wall member of the first wall assembly, preferably at an acute angle thereto. Preferably, the wall member extends at an angle to wall member of the first wall assembly in the range of from 5 to 85°, more preferably from 10 to 75°, still more preferably from 15 to 65°. An angle in the range of from 20 to 50° is preferred for many embodiments. In one particularly preferred embodiment, the wall member extends at an angle of from 20 to 30°, more particular from about 20 to 25°. In this embodiment, it will be appreciated that the total angle between the edge of the floor assembly and the wall member of the second wall assembly will be the sum of the angle between the wall member of the first wall assembly and the edge of the floor assembly and the angle between the wall member of the second wall assembly and the wall member of the first wall assembly. This total angle may be in the range of up to 85°, more preferably up to 75°, still more preferably up to 65°. A total angle in the range of up to 44° has been found suitable for many embodiments.

The second wall assembly is provided with a floor member, a roof member and an end wall member in similar manner as described above, so as to complete the enclosure of the space provided by the second wall assembly when in its extended position. The floor member is preferably moveable between a retracted or stowed position and an extended position. In particular, the floor member may be mounted, preferably pivotably mounted, either to the first wall assembly or to the wall member of the second wall assembly, so as to move from a retracted position in which it extends substantially vertically to a substantially horizontal, extended position. Preferably, the roof member of the second wall assembly is arranged as hereinbefore described for the first wall assembly, that is, the roof member is mounted to the wall member of the second wall assembly, preferably substantially horizontally, and extends inwards therefrom. In this way, the roof member of the second wall assembly is deployed in its extended position as the second wall assembly is moved to its extended position away from the first wall assembly. The end wall member of the second wall assembly is provided in similar manner to that described above, preferably being pivoted from either the first wall member or the second wall member.

In one preferred embodiment, opposing first and second walls of the building are each provided with a wall assembly as described above. In particular, the opposing first and second walls of the building are each provided with a nested wall assembly having first and second wall assemblies as described above. In one arrangement, the wall assemblies are disposed opposite one another in the building.

The wall assemblies may extend in the same direction or in opposing directions in the building.

It will be appreciated that each nested wall assembly may comprise a first and second wall assembly, as noted above. In addition, the nested wall assembly may comprise third and further wall assemblies, cooperating with the first and second wall assemblies as described above.

In embodiments comprising one or more nested wall assemblies, each assembly is preferably arranged to allow the first and second wall assemblies, and further wall assemblies if present, to be extended or retracted independently of one another. Thus, for example, in the case of a nested wall assembly comprising a first wall assembly and a second wall assembly, the arrangement is preferably such that the user may extend the wall member of the first wall assembly, while leaving the wall member of the second wall assembly retracted; may extend the wall member of the second wall assembly while leaving the first wall assembly retracted; or may extend both wall assemblies. In this way, the building assembly provides the user with many different options for configuring the volume and footprint of the building.

I

It is to be noted that the arrangement of the wall assemblies and their respective floor, roof and end wall members is preferably such that, when in the retracted position, the assemblies and members occupy a minimum of the space within the building. In this manner, the space within the building even in its retracted position may remain useful. The preferred embodiments and arrangements discussed above are designed to maximise the space within the building when in its retracted position.

As noted above, the roof assembly of the building may be of a fixed arrangement. However, it is particularly preferred that any expanding building assembly is provided with a roof assembly that may be extended, in particular to increase the height of the interior of the building. This is particularly the case when the building has been arranged to be accommodated within the volume of a standard commercial container when in the retracted position.

Accordingly, in a further aspect, the present invention provides an expandable building assembly, the building assembly having a retracted position, in which the building has a first volume, and an extended position, in which the building has a second volume, greater than the first, the building assembly comprising: a floor assembly; a plurality of walls; an expandable roof assembly, comprising a roof member; means for raising a first edge of the roof member from its retracted position; and means for thereafter raising a second edge of the roof member into its extended position, the second edge being opposite the first edge.

The building assembly of this aspect of the present invention comprises an expandable roof assembly, having a roof member that is moveable between a retracted position and an extended position. The expandable roof assembly may be used alone, merely to increase the height within the building. More preferably, the expandable roof assembly is used in conjunction with one or more assemblies to increase the floor space or footprint of the building, in particular one or more wall assemblies as described above.

The expandable roof assembly comprises a roof member that is moveable between a retracted position and an extended position. The roof member is moveable from its retracted position to its extended position in two stages. First, means are provided to raise one edge of the roof member. Suitable means for raising the roof in this manner include jacks, for example screw jacks, rams, and one or more levers. The means may be powered in any suitable manner, for example electrically, hydraulically or the like. In one preferred embodiment, the means are powered using potential energy stored in an actuating system, such as described in more detail below.

Once the roof member has been raised at one edge, the roof member is thereafter further raised at a second edge portion. The second edge is opposite the first edge. Suitable means for raising the second edge of the roof member are as hereinbefore described. In one preferred embodiment, the same means are used to raise the first and second edges of the roof member.

The first edge may be any edge of the roof member. For example, the first edge may be at one extremity of the building, with the second edge opposite the first edge, for example at an opposing extremity of the building. More preferably, the first edge of the roof member is at an inner position of the roof, that is between opposing extremities of the building. The second edge of the roof member may be at an inner position of the roof, but is preferably at an extremity of the building.

As noted above, the roof member is raised in two stages, with the first edge being raised in the first stage and the second edge thereafter being raised in a second stage. In one preferred embodiment, the roof member is first raised beyond the extended position and is then lowered to the extended position. This movement may be at one or both of the first and second edges of the roof member. In this way, with the roof member being moved to a position beyond the extended position and then returned to the extended position, movement of other members and assemblies of the building are allowed, such as movements of one or more wall assemblies, before the roof member is brought to its final position.

The second edge of the roof member is raised after the first edge has been raised from its retracted position. Preferably, the second edge is only moved once the first edge has reached its fully extended position. Thereafter, the second edge is raised.

The roof member is preferably horizontal, when in its retracted position. The first and second edges of the roof member may be raised to the same heights or to different heights. Preferably, the first and second edges are at different heights when in their extended positions. This facilitates such actions as the collection of rainwater, for example for use in a rainwater harvesting system. In one preferred embodiment, the height of the second edge in its extended position is greater than the height of the first edge in its extended position.

The roof assembly may comprise a single moveable roof member as described above. Alternatively, and more preferably, the roof assembly comprises a plurality of moveable roof members. In one preferred arrangement, the roof assembly comprises a first moveable roof member and a second moveable roof member. In one embodiment, the first and second roof members have their first edges adjacent and located centrally in the building, with the second edges of the first and second roof members being at an extremity of the building.

In one preferred embodiment, the building is arranged to be of the size of a standard commercial container when in its retracted position, as described above.

The roof of the building comprises first and second roof members, each having their first edges disposed centrally and their second edges disposed at opposing ends of the building.

To complete the enclosure of the building when the roof assembly is in its extended position, wall members are provided to extend from the roof members to the floor assembly. The wall members may be deployed in any suitable manner, so as to provide a walled enclosure when the building is in both its retracted and extended position. In one embodiment, the building is provided with a plurality of walls of fixed height, such that the roof assembly raises above the upper edges of the walls when moving to its extended position. As a result, wall members are provided to extend from the roof assembly and complete the walled enclosure. The wall members may be deployed in any suitable manner. Preferably, the walls members are each moveable between a retracted or stowed position and an extended position.

For example, each wall member may be mounted, for example pivotably mounted, to the roof assembly. More preferably, each wall member is mounted to a respective wall of the building so as to move from the retracted or stowed position to the extended position. In one embodiment, the wall members are pivotably mounted to the walls of the building, so as to fold upwards into an extended position to meet the roof assembly when it is extended.

It is to be noted that the arrangement of the root assembly and its respective wall members is preferably such that, when in the retracted position, the assembly and members occupy a minimum of the space within the building. In this manner, the space within the building even in its retracted position may remain useful. The preferred embodiments and arrangements discussed above are designed to maximise the space within the building when in its retracted position.

In addition to the aforementioned wall assemblies and/or roof assembly, able to increase significantly the space within the building when moved from their retracted positions to their extended positions, the building assembly may comprise other arrangements for increasing the volume. In particular, the building assembly may comprise one or more assemblies that are arranged telescopically within the building. Each assembly comprises a floor member, a roof member and walls, the assembly being moveable horizontally between a retracted position, in which the assembly is held partially or wholly within the building assembly, and an extended position, in which the assembly extends partially or wholly from the building assembly. Such telescopic assemblies may form a unit, such as a bathroom or kitchen, and be provided with components typically found in such rooms. In this way, a complete room, such as a bathroom or kitchen, including its utility requirements such as plumbing and electrical power, may be provided within a single telescopic assembly, ready to be deployed when the building is installed at a location.

I

In embodiments in which the building assembly is of the size and form of a standard commercial container when in the retracted position, a telescopic assembly of the aforementioned type is preferably provided in one or both end portions of the building.

It has been found that, by employing one or more of the aforementioned aspects of the present invention, in particular one or more moveable wall assemblies and a root having one or more roof sections moveable as described hereinbefore, it is possible to increase the volume of the building when in its retracted position by up to 250% or higher. This is particularly advantageous, as it allows the building to be provided in a size corresponding to that of a standard commercial container, facilitating delivery to the intended location by conventional means, such as road, rail or by water, and then extended to provide a substantial space for dwelling or other uses.

As described above, the building assembly of the present invention is provided with one or more portions that are expandable from a retracted position to an extended position. Each portion typically requires several operations to be performed in moving between the retracted and extended positions, in particular to complete the enclosure of the building, so as to provide the requisite roof, wall and floor members for the increased space. As also noted, the building assembly preferably comprises a plurality of such expandable portions, for example one or more wall assemblies and/or one or more roof assemblies. With such a building assembly, it is advantageous if the various operations required for the extension or retraction of the expandable portions are powered by a single source.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides an expandable building assembly having a plurality of components moveable between a retracted position, in which the building assembly has a first volume, and an extended position, in which the building assembly has a second volume greater than the first volume, the building assembly comprising: means for moving each of the plurality of components between their extended and retracted positions, the means being powered by a single source of energy.

I

The building assembly comprises a plurality of components moveable between respective retracted and extended positions. Such components may comprise one or more of wall members, roof members and floor members. The components may be moveable as hereinbefore described, to increase or decrease the volume of the building and provide a complete enclosure.

Means are provided for moving the plurality of components. Such means are as hereinbefore described and may be, for example, screw actuators, levers and jacks, powered by electricity, hydraulic fluid or the like. A particularly preferred means for moving each of the plurality of components is a lever or assembly of a plurality of levers.

The building assembly comprises a single power source for the various means for moving the plurality of components. Suitable sources of energy for powering the means are as mentioned above. A particularly preferred source of energy is potential energy stored in a member. The potential energy is released, upon demand, to power the various means for moving the components between the extended and retracted positions.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the potential energy is stored in a weighted member moveable from a first elevation to a second elevation, lower than the first elevation. Movement of the weighted member from the first to the second elevations releases potential energy to operate the aforesaid means and move the components. It is preferred that the movement of the weighted member from the first to the second elevation is effective in moving the plurality of components from the retracted position into the extended position.

The weighted member may be any suitable member. In one embodiment of the building assembly, the weighted member houses equipment of sufficient weight, such as devices required for the operation of the building as a dwelling, such as components for providing utilities and the like.

In alternative embodiment, the weighted member is arranged to have its weight adjusted. With the weighted member at the first elevation, increasing its weight will cause it to fall to the second elevation, thus powering the aforesaid means and moving the components of the building assembly. Conversely, decreasing the weight of the weighted member when at the second elevation allows the weighted member to be raised to the first elevation. Preferably, one or more of the components of the building assembly are arranged to be biased to their retracted positions, thereby causing the weighted member with a decreased weight to return to the first elevation and also to retract the remaining components of the building assembly. In one preferred embodiment, the weight of one or more extendable roof members and its movement from an extended position to a retracted position is used to provide the energy to raise the weighted member and retract the remaining components of the building assembly.

Any suitable means may be used to provide for the weight of the weighted member to be adjustable. In one preferred embodiment, the weighted member is provided with a reservoir to hold a liquid, whereby adding or removing liquid from the reservoir increases or decreases the weight of the weighted member. Water is a particularly preferred liquid, generally being in sufficient supply at locations where the building assembly is to be deployed.

As noted, it is advantageous to have one or more of the extendable components of the building assembly to be biased to the retracted position, thereby to provide energy to move some, preferably all, other components from their extended positions to their retracted positions.

Accordingly, in a further aspect, the present invention provides an expandable building assembly having a plurality of components moveable between a retracted position, in which the building assembly has a first volume, and an extended position, in which the building assembly has a second volume greater than the first volume, the building assembly comprising: a first of the said components biased to a retracted position; and means operable to move a second of the said components from the extended position to the retracted position, the means being powered by movement of the first component from its extended position to its retracted position.

I

As noted, the building assembly may comprise one or more components biased to their respective retracted positions. Movement of such components from the extended position to the retracted position provides energy to retract one or more of the other components.

The first of the components may be any suitable component that can be biased to its retracted position. For example, the first component may be a roof member or a wall member. The first component is preferably a roof member that is moveable from a raised, extended position into a lowered or retracted position to thereby provide energy for retracting other components in the assembly. In one embodiment, a plurality of roof members are so arranged to provide the required energy for retraction of part, preferably all of the components of the building.

Alternatively, the first component may be a wall member, in particular a wall member that is pivotably mounted and moveable between an extended position in which the wall member extends upwards at a first angle, for example substantially vertically, from the pivot mounting and an retracted position in which the wall member extends at a second angle, less than the first angle from the pivot mounting, for example in which the wall member extends horizontally or below the mounting.

Gravity is a particularly preferred biasing means. However, other biasing means may be employed.

In one embodiment, the first component is adjustable in weight, such that its weight may be increased or decreased. In this way, the biasing force on the component due to gravity may be increased. For example, the component may have a first, lower weight when in the retracted position, allowing it to be more easily deployed to the extended position. In the extended position, the component may have its weight increased, thereby increasing the force on the component urging it into the retracted position.

The weight of the first component may be adjusted in any suitable manner. In a preferred embodiment, the first component comprises a reservoir for holding a liquid, such that liquid may be added to or removed from the reservoir to increase or decrease the weight of the component. Water is a most suitable liquid for this purpose.

As described above, embodiments of the building assembly of the present invention require a plurality of components to be moved between retracted and extended position, in order to provide an expanded building with an increased volume having a complete external enclosure. Typically, the components of an assembly, such as a wall assembly or a roof assembly, must be moved in a particular order between their respective retracted and expanded positions. It is preferable if the means for moving the components are arranged to extend or contract the components in the correct order in a coordinated manner, without input from a user once an initial command has been given.

Accordingly, in a still further aspect, the present invention provides an expandable building assembly having a plurality of components moveable between a retracted position, in which the building assembly has a first volume, and an extended position, in which the building assembly has a second volume greater than the first volume, the building assembly comprising: driving means operable to move the said components from the extended position to the retracted position, the means being coordinated to sequentially move the components in order for extension or retraction of the components.

Suitable driving means for moving the components of the building assembly are as described above. It has been found that mechanical actuators, such as mechanical linkages and levers are particularly suitable for the coordinated movement of the components.

The coordinated movement of the components between their respective retracted and extended positions is most advantageously powered by a single, central driving system as described above.

The driving means for moving the components are preferably operable without feedback. In this way, the system is operable to move the components in a coordinated, sequential manner, without the need for complicated control systems to monitor the position and movement of each component. In particular, the components are assigned an order in which they are moved by the driving means and the various linkages and actuators transferring drive from the driving means to the components are arranged to transfer drive according to this assigned order.

Again, this can be readily achieved with mechanical actuator systems, such as mechanical linkages and levers. As the drive system is actuated, drive is transferred to each component in order, with a first component being moved and subsequent component movement only being commenced when the first component has completed its assigned movement. This allows the drive system to be activated in a single action and the components allowed to be driven and moved, without requiring a control system.

As described at length above, in one particularly preferred embodiment, the building assembly of the present invention when in its retracted position has the dimensions of a standard commercial container. This allows the assembly to be stored and transported in a manner conventional for such containers. In particular, the assembly may be delivered to its intended location on a trailer, again as is conventional practice with containers. Accordingly, it would be advantageous to provide a means for deploying the building assembly from the trailer.

Accordingly, a still further aspect of the present invention provides a system for deploying a load from a surface, the system comprising: a plurality of first leg assemblies, each leg assembly comprising a leg moveable between a retracted position and an extended position, in the extended position the leg extending laterally outwards and downwards from the load at an angle to the vertical.

It is known to provide leg assemblies for supporting loads, such as building assemblies and containers. However, such leg assemblies generally have the legs extending vertically. This is requires the legs to be deployed outwards from the load first, before being lowered to the ground to support the load. This requirement is removed in the system of the present invention.

The system of this aspect of the invention is of particular use in removing loads from trailers and the like. In particular, by having the legs extending at an angle from the load allows them to be easily deployed without obstructing the delivery vehicle. This is particularly the case when the load is being deployed or recovered from uneven ground.

Further, the leg assemblies of the present invention provide a larger footprint for the legs when deployed, thereby increasing the stability of the load compared with known systems.

The system may be applied to any load. The system is particularly suitable for loading and unloading standard commercial containers. The system also finds particular use in loading and unloading building assemblies, for example those of the present invention as described above.

The system comprises a plurality of leg assemblies. The leg assemblies are preferably operable independently of each other, thereby allowing each leg to be positioned to accommodate unevenness or irregularities in the ground or surface that the load is being deployed onto.

Each leg assembly preferably further comprises a foot at the lower end of each leg, the foot contacting the ground when the leg assembly is deployed in its extended position.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the leg of each leg assembly is extendable, for example comprising a plurality of leg sections arranged telescopically and/or in a folded arrangement.

Means are provided in each leg assembly for moving the leg between its extended position and its retracted position. Any suitable means may be employed, for example electric or hydraulic actuators. In one preferred embodiment, each leg is arranged to be moved by manual operation. In this way, the system may be operated without requiring a local source of energy, such as electricity.

In the retracted position, the leg assembly is most preferably contained within the footprint of the load. This is particularly the case with a load that is or is the size of a standard commercial container.

The legs of the leg assemblies are moveable between the retracted position and an extended position. In the extended position, the leg extends laterally outwards and downwards from the load at an angle to the vertical. In the extended position the legs extend beyond the footprint of the load, providing the load with a wider footprint on which to be supported, thereby improving stability of the load. In the extended position, the legs may extend at any suitable angle. Preferably, the legs extend at an angle to the vertical of from 5°to 50°, more preferably from 10°to 400, still more preferably from 15° to 30°. An angle to the vertical in the range of from 20° to 300 has been found to be particularly suitable, especially about 25°.

In moving from the retracted position to the extended position, the leg of each leg assembly is moved laterally outwards from the load. In addition, the leg is lowered to contact the ground. These actions may be carried out sequentially or simultaneously. Preferably, the means are operable to simultaneously move the laterally outwards and downwards from its retracted position. Most preferably, this is accomplished using a single drive means, for example a single worm screw drive.

The system comprises a plurality of leg assemblies. The leg assemblies should be provided in sufficient number to support and raise and lower the load.

Typically, the system comprises an even number of leg assemblies, with a minimum of four assemblies. Larger numbers of assemblies, such as six or eight may be employed for larger loads, for example elongate loads such as the longer standard commercial containers.

In addition to the aforementioned first leg assemblies, the system of the present invention may comprise a plurality of second assemblies with vertically extending legs. Such leg assemblies may be of generally conventional arrangement with legs moveable vertically between an extended position and a retracted position.

In particular such second assemblies may be positioned to allow the legs to extend beneath the load, so as to raise it from a trailer or other surface. The provision of such second assemblies is advantageous in loading and unloading the load, for example from a trailer or the like.

With assemblies of this embodiment, the load may be unloaded from a surface, for example a trailer, as follows. First, the load is raised from the trailer using the second leg assemblies, in which the legs are extended vertically downwards to bear on the surface of the trailer and raise the load therefrom. The first leg assemblies may be used to level the load above the trailer. Thereafter, the legs of the first leg assemblies are deployed, as described above, with the legs thereof extending laterally outwards and downwards at an angle to the vertical to the ground. The legs of the first leg assemblies are set in position to support the load.

Once this is achieved, the legs of the first leg assemblies may be retracted. Finally, the trailer is removed from beneath the load.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, having reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 a is a cross-sectional side view of a building assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention in a retracted position; Figure lb is a cross-sectional end view of the building assembly of Figure 1 a; Figure 1 c is a plan view of the building assembly of Figure 1 a; Figure 2a is a cross-sectional side view of the building assembly of Figures 1 a to 1 c in a first partially extended position; Figure 2b is a cross-sectional end view of the building assembly of Figure 2a; Figure 2c is a plan view of the building assembly of Figure 2a; Figure 3a is a cross-sectional side view of the building assembly of Figures 1 a to 1 c in a second partially extended position;

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Figure 3b is a cross-sectional end view of the building assembly of Figure 3a; Figure 3c is a plan view of the building assembly of Figure 3a; Figure 4a is a cross-sectional side view of the building assembly of Figures lato lc in a third partially extended position; Figure 4b is a cross-sectional end view of the building assembly of Figure 4a; Figure 4c is a plan view of the building assembly of Figure 4a; Figure 5a is a cross-sectional side view of the building assembly of Figures 1 a to 1 c in a fourth partially extended position; Figure 5b is a cross-sectional end view of the building assembly of Figure 5a; Figure 5c is a plan view of the building assembly of Figure 5a; Figure Ga is a cross-sectional side view of the building assembly of Figures 1 a to 1 c in a fifth partially extended position; Figure Gb is a cross-sectional end view of the building assembly of Figure Ga; Figure 6c is a plan view of the building assembly of Figure Ga; Figure 7a is a cross-sectional side view of the building assembly of Figures 1 a to 1 c in a sixth partially extended position; Figure 7b is a cross-sectional end view of the building assembly of Figure 7a; Figure 7c is a plan view of the building assembly of Figure 7a; Figure Ba is a cross-sectional side view of the building assembly of Figures 1 a to 1 c in a seventh partially extended position; Figure 8b is a cross-sectional end view of the building assembly of Figure Ba; Figure Bc is a plan view of the building assembly of Figure Ba; Figure 9a is a cross-sectional side view of the building assembly of Figures lato loin a fully extended position; Figure 9b is a cross-sectional end view of the building assembly of Figure 9a; Figure 9c is a plan view of the building assembly of Figure 9a; Turning to Figures 1 a to 1 c, there is shown a building assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. The building assembly, generally indicated as 2, comprises a plurality of expandable assemblies, each moveable between a retracted position, in which the building has a first, lower inner volume, and an extended position, in which the building has a second, higher inner volume.

Further, the building assembly has a first footprint when all the expandable assemblies are in the retracted position and a second footprint when all the expandable assembles are in the extended position, the second footprint being larger than the first.

While the embodiment of the building assembly shown in Figures la to lc comprises a plurality of expandable assemblies, it is to be understood that other embodiments may comprise one or some of the assemblies shown and described below, or one or more of the assemblies in larger or smaller numbers than shown and described.

The building assembly of the embodiment is shown in a fully retracted condition in Figures 1 a to 1 c and in a fully extended condition in Figures 9a to 9c, which figures have been fully labelled with reference numerals. Intermediate conditions of the assembly between the fully retracted and fully extended conditions are shown in Figures 2 to 8.

With reference to Figures lato ic, the building assembly 2 is shown in its fully retracted state, that is with all expandable assemblies in their retracted position, resulting in the building assembly having its lowest inner volume and smallest footprint.

Referring to Figures la to lc, the building assembly 2 comprises a generally rectangular floor assembly 4, opposing side walls 6, 8 and opposing end wall 10, 12, each wall extending vertically from a respective edge portion of the floor assembly 4.

The building assembly 2 further comprises a roof assembly 14. The building assembly 2 is supported by four leg assemblies, each generally indicated as 16, arranged in two pairs of opposing legs, each leg assembly 16 extending from a side wall to the ground to support the building assembly, such that the floor assembly is held above the ground, as shown in Figures laand lb. As viewed in Figures la and lc, the building assembly 2 may be considered to comprise a central portion, generally indicated as 18, extending between each pair of leg assemblies 16, and opposing end portions, generally indicated as 20 and 22, extending longitudinally beyond each pair of leg assemblies 16.

Each of the assemblies of the building assembly 2 and their operation will now be described in more detail.

The floor assembly 4 is of a generally standard construction and comprises a plurality of support members, a floor and insulation. The floor assembly 4 is of a generally fixed configuration, in that the floor assembly does not itself move between an expanded position and a retracted position. Rather, additional floor members are provided and deployed, as described hereinafter, when additional floor area is required as a result of movement of one or more of the expandable assemblies.

Details of the floor assembly 4 have been omitted from the figures for the sake of clarity.

Each end portion 20, 22 comprises an expandable assembly, the construction and operation of which is shown in more detail in Figures 2 to 5. In particular, each end portion 20, 22 is provided with a compartment 30 having opposing side walls 32, 34 and an exterior end wall 36, a roof 38 and a floor 40. The inner end of the compartment may be open to the interior of the building assembly or may be provided with a wall having an opening or door therein. Each compartment 30 is arranged to move horizontally and longitudinally between the side walls 6, 8 of the building assembly 2 between a retracted position, shown in Figure 1 a, to an extended position shown in Figure 5a. To allow each compartment 30 to move to the extended position, the respective end wall 10, 12 of the building assembly 2 is provided with a portion arranged to pivot about its lower edge from a vertical position to a horizontal position. A restraint 42, such as a cable, is used to lower and hold the portion of the end wall 10, 12 in the horizontal position. The movement of the compartments 30 and the portions of the end walls 10, 12 from the retracted position to the extended position is shown in Figures 2 to 5.

The compartments 30 may be provided with any suitable interior facilities, for example bathrooms as shown in the figures.

Each end portion 20, 22 further comprises an extension assembly 50, each comprising an exterior wall 52, opposing end walls 54 a roof and a floor. Each extension assembly 50 is mounted to move horizontally and laterally between a retracted position within the confines of a respective side wall 6, 8 of the building assembly 2 and an extended position, in which the extension assembly 50 extends laterally from the respective side wall, as shown in Figures 9a to 9c.

Turning to the roof assembly, generally indicated as 14, the assembly comprises two roof members 60, 62. Each roof member 60, 62 extends in a longitudinal direction from a roof mount 64 located centrally in the central portion 18 of the building assembly. The roof mount 64 is in the form of a beam and extends laterally across the central portion 18 of the building assembly. Each roof member 60, 62 has a first edge 60a, 62a adjacent the roof mount 64 and an opposing second edge Bob, 62b at each end of the building assembly 2. Each roof member 60, 62 is connected to the roof mount 64 by a first jack 66 extending from a pivotable connection on a lower portion of the roof mount 64 to a pivotable connection on the roof member spaced from the first edge 60a, 62a. A second jack 68 extends from a pivotable connection on an upper portion of the roof mount 64 to a pivotable connection on the roof member adjacent the first edge 60a, 62a. The roof members 60,62 and the jacks 64,66 are shown in the retracted position in Figure la and in the extended position in Figure 9a.

The jacks 64, 66 operate to move the roof members 60, 62 in the sequence shown in Figures 2a to 8a as follows: In the retracted position shown in Figure 1 a, each roof member 60, 62 is lying substantially horizontally, with the first edges 60a, 62a abutting above the roof mount 64 and the second edges Gob, 62b substantially coterminus with the respective end walls 10, 12. In a first stage of movement, the jacks 66, 68 extend to raise the first edge 60a, 62a of each roof member 60, 62. In particular, the first edges 60a, 62a are raised upwards away from the roof mount 64 and longitudinally away from each other, upwards movement being provided primarily by the jacks 68. The condition at the end of this first stage of movement is shown in Figure 2a. Thereafter, in a second stage, the jacks 66 are further extended, raising the second edges GOb, 62b of the roof members. The roof members 60, 62 are raised as shown in the figures such that they each have their respective second edges 60b, 62b higher than their first edges 60a, 62a, providing the roof members with a slope extending downwards and longitudinally inwards. A suitable guttering and drainage assembly (not shown for clarity) may be provided at the first edges GOa, 62a of the roof members above the roof mount, to remove rain water collected on the roof members.

It is to be noted that the second stage of movement raises each roof member 60, 62 above its final resting position, shown in Figure 9. The building assembly 2 is provided with a roof end wall 70 pivotably mounted to the upper edge of each end wall 10, 12 and a roof side wall 72 pivotably mounted to the upper edge of each side wall 6, 8. In the retracted position, shown in Figure la, the roof end walls 70 and roof side walls 72 extend horizontally inwards from each end wall 10, 12 substantially parallel to and beneath the respective roof member. With the roof members 60, 62 in the extended position after the second stage, each roof end wall 70 and each roof side wall 72 is pivoted upwards and outwards, as shown in Figures 7a, 7b, Sb and 8b, to extend vertically from the upper edge of each end wall 10, 12. The jacks 66, 68 are then partially retracted, to lower the second edge 60b, 62b of each roof member 60, 62 onto the upper edge of the respective roof end wall 70 and the roof side wall 72.

Turning to the side walls 6, 8 of the building assembly 2, each side wall is provided with a nested wall assembly, generally indicated as 80. Each nested wall assembly is of the same configuration and operation. Accordingly, for clarity, the nested wall assembly extending from the side wall 6 has been fully labelled in the figures.

It is to be noted that the nested wall assemblies 80 in the side walls 6, 8 have been arranged in opposing configuration, as shown in plan view in Figure 9c. It is to be understood that the nested wall assemblies 80 may be arranged in similar configuration in each side wall 6, 8. In addition, while a single nested wall assembly is shown provided in each side wall 6, 8, it is to be understood that each side wall may have fewer or greater numbers of nested wall assemblies provided along its length. Finally, each nested wall assembly 80 is shown as having a first movable wall member and a second movable wall member. However, it is to be understood that three or more such wall members may be provided in like manner.

Referring to Figures lc and 9c, a nested wall assembly 80 comprises a first wall member 82, pivotably mounted to the building assembly 2 at one vertical edge 84 thereof, whereby the first wall member 82 is movable horizontally in a lateral direction outwards from the wall 6 about the connection at the edge 84. In the retracted position shown in Figure lc, the wall member 82 lies within the central portion 18 of the interior of the building assembly 2 and extends substantially parallel to the side wall 6. The wall member 82 is able to move outwards about the edge 84 to an extended position in which the wall member extends at an acute angle to the side wall 6, as shown in Figure 9c. In the embodiment shown, the wall member 82 extends at an angle of 21 to the side wall 6. It will be understood that the wall member may be arranged to extend at other angles to the side wall, as required.

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The nested wall assembly 80 further comprises an end wall assembly 86 comprising two wall portions 86a, 86b hingedly attached to each other along a vertical edge. The end wall assembly 86 is pivotably mounted to the building assembly 2 and to the other vertical edge of the wall member 82. In the retracted position, as shown in Figure lc, the two wall portions 86a, 8Gb are folded together within the central portion 18 of the interior of the building assembly 2 and lie substantially parallel to the side wall 6. The arrangement of the end wall assembly 86 is such that the wall portions 86a, 8Gb can unfold to extend as the wall member 82 is moved outwards about its pivoted connection. In the extended position, shown in Figure 9c, the end wall assembly 86 extends laterally outwards between the side wall 6 and the other vertical edge of the wall member 82.

The nested wall assembly 80 is also provided with a floor member 88, pivotably connected to the floor assembly 4 at its lower edge. In the retracted position, the floor member 88 extends vertically within the central portion 18 of the interior of the building assembly 2 and lies substantially parallel to the side wall 6.

The floor member 88 is pivotable about the connection at its lower edge to extend substantially horizontally between the floor assembly 4 and the lower edge portion of the wall member 82, as shown in Figure 9b.

In addition, the nested wall assembly 80 comprises a roof member 90, extending substantially horizontally from the upper edge portion of the wall member 82. In the retracted position, shown in Figure la, the roof member 90 (indicated by a dotted line) extends within the interior of the central portion 18 of the building assembly 2. The roof member 90 moves with the wall member 82.

The operation of the nested wall assembly 80 is in two stages. The first stage of the operation of the nested wall assembly 80 is shown in the sequence from Figures lb and icto Figures 4b and 4c. As can be seen, the wall member 82 is moved laterally outwards to its extended position. The roof member 90 is drawn out of the interior of the building assembly 2 by the action of the wall member 82. As can be seen in Figure 3c, the end wall assembly 86 then unfolds, to complete the wall surrounding the interior of the nested wall assembly. Finally, the floor member 88 is folded down to extend to the wall member 82 and provide a floor for the nested wall assembly.

The nested wall assembly 80 comprises a second wall member 92, pivotably connected to the first wall member 82 about a vertical edge 94 thereof, analogous to the arrangement of the first wall member 82, whereby the second wall member 92 is movable horizontally in a lateral direction outwards from the first wall member 82 about the connection at the edge 94. In the retracted position shown in Figure ic, the second wall member 92 lies within the central portion 18 of the interior of the building assembly 2 and extends substantially parallel to the side wall 6. The second wall member 92 is able to move outwards about the connection at the edge 94 to an extended position in which the wall member extends at an acute angle to the first wall member 82, as shown in Figure 9c. In the embodiment shown, the second wall member 92 extends at an angle of 23 to the first wall member 82 and at an angle of 44 to the side wall 6. It will be understood that the wall member may be arranged to extend at other angles to the side wall, as required.

The nested wall assembly 80 further comprises an end wall member 96 pivotably mounted at a vertical edge to the first wall member 82. In the retracted position, as shown in Figure lc, the end wall member 96 lies within the central portion 18 of the interior of the building assembly 2 substantially parallel to the side wall 6. The arrangement of the end wall member 96 is such that it can unfold to extend as the second wall member 92 is moved outwards about its pivoted connection. In the extended position, shown in Figure 9c, the end wall member 96 extends laterally outwards between the first wall member 82 and the other vertical edge of the second wall member 92.

The nested wall assembly 80 is also provided with a second floor member 98, pivotably connected at its lower edge to the first wall member 82. In the retracted position, the second floor member 98 extends vertically within the central portion 18 of the interior of the building assembly 2 and lies substantially parallel to the first wall member and the side wall 6. The second floor member 98 is pivotable about the connection at its lower edge to extend substantially horizontally inwards from the second wall member 92, as shown in Figure 9b.

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In addition, the nested wall assembly 80 comprises a second roof member 100, extending substantially horizontally from the upper edge portion of the second wall member 92. In the retracted position, shown in Figure la, the roof member 100 (indicated by a dotted line) extends within the interior of the central portion 18 of the building assembly 2. The roof member 100 moves with the second wall member 92.

The second stage of the operation of the nested wall assembly 80 is shown in the sequence from Figures 5b and Sc to Figures Sb and Sc. As can be seen, the second wall member 92 is moved laterally outwards from the first wall member 82 to its extended position. The second roof member 100 is drawn laterally outwards by the action of the second wall member 92. As can be seen in Figure 6c, the end wall member 96 then unfolds, to complete the wall surrounding the interior of the nested wall assembly. Finally, the second floor member 98 is folded down to extend from the second wall member 92 and provide a floor for the nested wall assembly.

The assemblies may be moved as hereinbefore described by any suitable means. Examples of suitable means include electric motors, hydraulic systems and the like. Two or more assemblies may be connected to a common drive means by a suitable connection, such as cables and or levers. It has been found that lever assemblies provide a particularly suitable means to transfer drive to the components of the assemblies.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, drive to move components of the assemblies is provided by a central member 200. The member 200 is mounted centrally in the floor of the building assembly, as shown in Figure 1 a and comprises a container 202 for holding a liquid. The member 200 is mounted on suitable guides 204 so as to be moveable vertically. In the position shown in Figure 1 a, the container 202 is empty. Liquid, in particular water, is pumped into the container 202, increasing the weight of the member 200, causing it to descend, as indicated by the arrow in Figure 1 a. Movement of the member 200 downwards in this manner provides power to drive the assemblies and move the components from the retracted condition, shown in Figures la to lc, to the expanded condition shown in Figures 9a to 9c.

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The assembly may be returned to the retracted condition by pumping water from the container 202, allowing the member 200 to rise under the weight of components of the assemblies.

The member 200 is connected to the various components of the assemblies by means of levers (not shown for clarity).

Claims

CLAIMS1. An expandable building assembly, the assembly having a retracted position and an extended position, the assembly comprising: a floor assembly having a boundary comprising a plurality of edges in the retracted position; a roof assembly; a wall assembly extending between the floor assembly and the roof assembly; the wall assembly comprising a first wall member pivotably mounted at one edge, the first wall member being pivotable about an axis perpendicular to the floor assembly and moveable between the retracted position, in which the wall member lies within the boundary of the floor assembly, and the extended position, in which the wall member extends outwards from the boundary of the floor assembly at an angle to the edge of the floor assembly.
2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the boundary of the floor assembly in the retracted position is rectangular.
3. The assembly according to claim 2, wherein the boundary of the floor assembly in the retracted position is the same as or less than the footprint of a standard commercial container.
4. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the floor assembly comprises one or more sections allowing the floor assembly to be extended in area between the retracted and extended positions.
5. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the roof assembly is rectangular in plan view in the retracted position.
6. The assembly according to claim 5, wherein the area of the roof assembly in the retracted position is the same as or less than the footprint of a standard commercial container.
7. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the roof assembly comprises one or more sections allowing the root assembly to be increased in area between the retracted and extended positions.
8. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the first wall member extends parallel to an edge of the boundary of the tloor assembly in the retracted position.
9. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the first wall member lies within the plane ot the wall of the building assembly in the retracted position.
10. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the first wall member extends at an angle of less than 900 to the edge ot the floor assembly.
11. The assembly according to claim 10, wherein the first wall member extends at an angle of from 5 to 85° to the edge of the floor assembly.
12. The assembly according to claim 11, wherein the first wall member extends at an angle of from 20 to 30° to the edge of the floor assembly.
13. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the first wall member comprises a portion of a wall of the building.
14. The assembly according to any preceding claim, turther comprising a tloor member to extend between the lower edge of the tirst wall member and the edge of the floor assembly, when the wall assembly is in the extended position.
15. The assembly according to claim 14, wherein the floor member is moveable horizontally between a stowed position and an extended position.
16. The assembly according to claim 14, wherein the floor member is pivotable between a stowed position and an extended position.
17. The assembly according to claim 16, wherein the floor member is pivotably mounted to the floor assembly.
18. The assembly according to either of claims 16 or 17, wherein the floor member is substantially vertical in the stowed position.
19. The assembly according to any preceding claim, further comprising a root member to extend between the upper edge of the first wall member and the edge of the roof assembly, when the wall assembly is in the extended position.
20. The assembly according to claim 19, wherein the roof member is pivotable between a stowed position and an extended position.
21. The assembly according to claim 19, wherein the roof member is moveable horizontally between a stowed position and an extended position.
22. The assembly according to claim 21, wherein the roof member is mounted to the first wall member and is moveable therewith.
23. The assembly according to either of claims 21 or 22, wherein the floor member is substantially vertical in the stowed position.
24. The assembly according to any preceding claim, further comprising an end wall member, the end wall member extending inwards from the free edge of the first wall member to complete the wall enclosure of the building when in the extended position.I25. The assembly according to claim 24, wherein the end wall member is mounted to the first wall assembly.26. The assembly according to either of claims 24 or 25, wherein the end wall member comprises a plurality of hingedly attached wall portions.27. The assembly according to any preceding claim, comprising a plurality of wall assemblies.28. The assembly according to claim 27, wherein one wall of the building comprises a plurality of wall assemblies.29. The assembly according to either of claims 27 or 28, comprising a first wall assembly and a second wall assembly, wherein the wall member of the first wall assembly comprises a portion that forms the wall member of the second wall assembly.30. The assembly according to claim 29, wherein the second wall assembly is extendable from the first wall assembly with the first position in the retracted position, the extended position or a position therebetween.31. The assembly according to either of claims 29 or 30, wherein the wall member of the second wall assembly extends at an angle of from 5 to 85° to the wall member of the first assembly, when in the extended position.32. The assembly according to claim 31, wherein the wall member of the second wall assembly extends atan angle of from 2Oto 30°to the wall member of the first assembly, when in the extended position.33. The assembly according to any of claims 29 to 32, wherein the second wall assembly comprises a floor member moveable between a retracted and an extended position.34. The assembly according to claim 33, wherein the floor member is pivotally mounted either to the wall member of the first wall assembly or to the wall member of the second wall assembly.35. The assembly according to any of claims 29 to 34, wherein the second wall assembly comprises a roof member moveable between a retracted and an extended position.36. The assembly according to claim 35, wherein the roof member is mounted to the wall member of the second wall assembly and moveable substantially horizontally between the retracted and extended positions.37. The assembly according to any of claims 29 to 36, wherein the second wall assembly comprises an end wall member moveable between a retracted and an extended position.38. The assembly according to claim 37, wherein the end wall member is pivotally mounted either to the wall member of the first wall assembly or to the wall member of the second wall assembly.39. An expandable building assembly, the building assembly having a retracted position, in which the building has a first volume, and an extended position, in which the building has a second volume, greater than the first, the building assembly comprising: a floor assembly; a plurality of walls; an expandable roof assembly, comprising a roof member; means for raising a first edge of the roof member from its retracted position; and means for thereafter raising a second edge of the roof member into its extended position, the second edge being opposite the first edge.40. The assembly according to claim 39, wherein the first edge of the roof member is opposite the second edge of the roof member.41. The assembly according to either of claims 39 or 40, wherein the first edge of the roof portion is an inner edge.42. The assembly according to any of claims 39 to 41, wherein the second edge of the roof portion is at an extremity of the building.43. The assembly according to any of claims 39 to 42, wherein in moving from the retracted position to the extended position, the first edge of the roof member is raised beyond the extended position and thereafter lowered into the extended position.44. The assembly according to any of claims 39 to 43, wherein the second edge of the roof member is moveable only when the first edge is in its extended position.45. The assembly according to any of claims 39 to 44, wherein the roof member is substantially horizontal in the retracted position.46. The assembly according to any of claims 39 to 45, wherein the first and second edges are raised to different heights when in the extended position.47. The assembly according to any of claims 39 to 46, wherein the expandable roof assembly comprises a first roof member and a second roof member and means for raising a first edge of each of the first roof member and the second roof member.48. The assembly according to claim 47, wherein the first edges of the first and second roof members are adjacent one another.49. The assembly according to any of claims 39 to 46, further comprising one or more wall members to extend from the or each roof member when in its extended position.I50. The assembly according to claim 49, wherein the or each wall member is pivotally mounted to a wall of the assembly.51. The assembly according to any of claims ito 38 further comprising an assembly according to any of claims 39 to 50.52. An expandable building assembly having a plurality of components moveable between a retracted position, in which the building assembly has a first volume, and an extended position, in which the building assembly has a second volume greater than the first volume, the building assembly comprising: means for moving each of the plurality of components between their extended and retracted positions, the means being powered by a single source of energy.53. The assembly according to claim 52, wherein the single source of energy comprises potential energy stored in a member.54. The assembly according to claim 53, wherein the member is a weighted member moveable from a first elevation to a second elevation, the second elevation being lower than the first elevation.55. The assembly according to claim 54, wherein the weight of the weighted member is adjustable.56. The assembly according to claim 55, wherein increasing the weight of the weighted member causes the member to descend and decreasing the weight of the weighted member causes the member to ascend.57. The assembly according to either of claims 55 or 56, wherein the weighted member comprises a container for holding a liquid, the weight of the member being adjustable by changing the volume of liquid within the container.58. An expandable building assembly having a plurality of components moveable between a retracted position, in which the building assembly has a first volume, and an extended position, in which the building assembly has a second volume greater than the first volume, the building assembly comprising: a first of the said components biased to a retracted position; and means operable to move a second of the said components from the extended position to the retracted position, the means being powered by movement of the first component from its extended position to its retracted position.59. An expandable building assembly having a plurality of components moveable between a retracted position, in which the building assembly has a first volume, and an extended position, in which the building assembly has a second volume greater than the first volume, the building assembly comprising: driving means operable to move the said components from the extended position to the retracted position, the means being coordinated to sequentially move the components in order for extension or retraction of the components.60. A system for deploying a load from a surface, the system comprising: a plurality of first leg assemblies, each leg assembly comprising a leg moveable between a retracted position and an extended position, in the extended position the leg extending laterally outwards and downwards from the load at an angle to the vertical.61. The system according to claim 60, wherein the leg assembly is contained within the footprint of the load when in the retracted position.62. The system according to either of claims 60 or 61, wherein in the extended position the leg extends at an angle of from l5to 30° to the vertical.63. The system according to any of claims 60 to 62, wherein the leg is moveable laterally and downwards simultaneously.64. The system according to any of claims 60 to 63, wherein the leg is moved by a single screw mechanism.65. An expandable building assembly substantially as hereinbefore described having reference to Figures 1 to 9.66. A system for deploying a load substantially as hereinbefore described having reference to Figures 1 to 9.