JP2013509509A - Folding construction unit - Google Patents

Abstract

  A prefabricated foldable building unit is described having one or more of the following advantages. They are more easily prefabricated, more easily transported to the construction site without special permission, and can be removed and deployed at the construction site without the use of a crane (can be removed using a surface lifting rig, e.g. cable Can be deployed using a mechanism), can be completed accurately and quickly on the construction site, can greatly reduce the scope of work to be completed on the site, and handles considerably less expense and scheduling. obtain. In addition, the foldable building unit is removed and deployed avoiding the need for one or more cranes that can be expensive and complex to plan, so that a prefabricated foldable building unit can be installed at the construction site. A method is described in which a significant percentage becomes available.

Description

Related Applications Claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 61 / 371,540 filed on the same day and US Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 371,513 filed August 6, 2010. The entire teachings of the above application are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Architectural structures, particularly residential buildings, are typically built on-site and require the necessary materials and specific technicians to be transported to the site at each stage of the construction process. The inherent cost inefficiency of this approach is well known in the art.

  Thus, an alternative approach is described that aims to provide economically priced housing. Some of these alternatives included pre-fabricating various parts of the building at the central facility, transporting the parts to the building site, and then completing the assembly on site. Other alternatives include pre-fabricating the folding building unit at the central facility, transporting the folding building unit to the building site, unloading and unfolding the folding building unit on site using a crane (unfolding) and then completing the assembly on site.

  However, for several reasons, the cost of installing pre-fabricated non-foldable building units is substantial and, in addition to manufacturing and transport costs, these pre-made non-foldable building units It is stated that the total cost of the unit goes up to a level that is harmful to competition with traditional architecture. Previously described folding building units have one or more of the following disadvantages. They require considerable work at the building site, require considerable time to finish at the building site, are difficult to prepare in advance, cannot be accurately deployed and finished at the building site, and Requires a crane for removal and deployment at the construction site. Cranes are very expensive to use, can be difficult to schedule, and are not appropriate for a large percentage of the building site, so these buildings can be used against a significant number of prefabricated folding building units. Sites are excluded and often landlords or developers at each building site need to use conventional architecture.

  Therefore, it is low cost, allows for improved accuracy at the building site, is easy to pre-manufacture, transport, and quickly deploy and finish on the building site, previously pre-fabricated foldable building unit There is a need for a foldable building unit that can be installed at a construction site that was not suitable for installation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION One aspect of the present invention is a foldable building unit. The foldable building unit includes at least in part a structural framework made of framework elements foldably connected by a metal hinge. The collapsible building unit further includes an interior finish material indirectly coupled to the framework element to reduce direct contact between the interior finish material and the framework element. The framework element is at least partially made of metal, and the metal hinge is attached to the metal portion of the framework element.

  Another aspect of the present invention is a foldable building unit that includes a structural framework made at least in part of a framework element foldably connected by an offset hinge. The offset hinge is attached to a metal portion of the frame element, and the offset hinge is adapted and arranged on the frame element such that when folded, the interior finish material connected to the frame element steps together. .

  Another aspect of the present invention is a foldable building unit comprising a structural framework made at least in part with a framework element foldably connected by a metal hinge, the framework element being at least partially made of metal. Yes, the metal hinge is attached to the metal part of the framework element, and the metal hinge is adapted and arranged to be maintained in the building unit in the deployed and finished state.

  Another aspect of the present invention is a foldable building including a foldably connected finished wall panel, a foldably connected finished floor panel, and a foldably connected finished ceiling panel and / or roof panel. is there. The unfolded form of the foldable building is in a substantially finished state.

  Another aspect of the present invention is a foldable building having a structural framework adapted to be coupled to ground-level lifting rigs that lift or lower the foldable building.

  Another aspect of the present invention is a method of unloading a collapsible building unit from a vehicle. The method (a) allows a lifting member of a surface lifting rig to be attached to a folding building unit and the surface lifting rig to be transported to the next transport in a position adapted to allow the folding building unit to be lifted. (B) attaching the lifting member of the lifting rig to the foldable building unit; (c) activating the lifting rig and lifting the folding housing module from the vehicle; and (d) of the vehicle Maneuvering the vehicle to a position for removal of the loading area from the bottom of the foldable housing module.

  Another aspect of the present invention is a method for deploying a folded building unit. The method was deployed from a folded configuration to a folded framework element that is part of the structural framework of a folded building unit using one or more of a cable mechanism, a hydraulic mechanism, or a pneumatic mechanism. A step of developing into a form.

  Another aspect of the present invention is a fold comprising a core structure made of a fixedly connected first framework element, and a second framework element directly or indirectly hinged to the core structure. It is a type building. The second framework element is made of a metal member, and the core structure and the second framework element are part of the structural framework of the foldable building.

  Another aspect of the present invention is to reduce contact between the interior finishing material and the framework element, (a) at least in part, made of a framework element foldably connected by an offset hinge, and (b) an interior finish material and the framework element. A folding construction unit including an interior finishing material indirectly coupled to the framework element, the framework element being at least partially made of metal, the offset hinge being attached to a metal portion of the framework element, When folded, the interior finishing materials connected to the framework elements are adapted and arranged on the framework elements such that they step together.

  Another aspect of the invention is to reduce contact between the interior finishing material and the framework element, (a) at least in part, made of a framework element foldably connected by a metal hinge, and (b) an interior finish material and the framework element. Folding construction unit containing interior finishing material indirectly connected to the framework element, the framework element is at least partly made of metal, the metal hinge is attached to the metal part of the framework element, the metal hinge is unfolded Adapted and arranged to be maintained in a building unit in finished and finished form.

  Another aspect of the present invention is to reduce contact between the interior finishing material and the framework element, (a) at least in part, made of a framework element foldably connected by an offset hinge, and (b) an interior finish material and the framework element. A foldable building unit including an interior finish material indirectly coupled to the framework element, the framework element being at least partially metal, and the offset hinge being attached to a metal portion of the framework element; The offset hinge is adapted and arranged in the framework element such that when folded, the interior finishing material connected to the framework element steps together, the offset hinge being in the unfolded form and finished state. A metal hinge adapted and arranged to be maintained in a building unit.

  Another aspect of the present invention is: (a) a core structure made of a fixedly connected first framework element; (b) a second framework element connected to the core structure directly or indirectly by a hinge; Where the second framework element is made of a metal member, the core structure and the second framework element are part of the structural framework of the foldable building; and (c) the interior finish material and the direct framework element A collapsible building that includes an interior finish material indirectly coupled to a second framework element to reduce contact, one or more of the second framework elements being offset hinges attached to the framework element The offset hinges are adapted and arranged on the framework elements such that, when folded, the interior finish material connected to the framework elements steps together when folded.

  Another aspect of the present invention is: (a) a core structure made of a fixedly connected first framework element; (b) a second framework element connected to the core structure directly or indirectly by a hinge; Where the second framework element is made of metal members, the core structure and the second framework element are part of the structural framework of the foldable building; and (c) the interior finish material and the direct framework element A collapsible building that includes an interior finish material indirectly coupled to a second framework element to reduce contact, wherein one or more of the second framework elements is a metal hinge attached to the framework element Coupled by hinges, the metal hinges are adapted and arranged to be maintained in the deployed and finished construction unit.

  Another aspect of the present invention is: (a) a core structure made of a fixedly connected first framework element; (b) a second framework element connected to the core structure directly or indirectly by a hinge; Where the second framework element is made of a metal member, the core structure and the second framework element are part of the structural framework of the folding building; and (c) the interior finish material and the framework element directly Is a foldable structure that includes an interior finish material indirectly coupled to the second frame element to reduce unwanted contact, one or more of the second frame elements being offset hinges attached to the frame element The offset hinges are adapted and arranged in the frame elements so that the interior finishing materials connected to the frame elements step together when folded, and the offset hinges are deployed. Adapted and positioned to be maintained in a building unit in its configured and finished state.

  Another aspect of the invention includes a combination of two or more comprising all of the above aspects.

  The folding building unit of the present invention has one or more of the following advantages. They are more easily prefabricated and allow greater flexibility of building shapes such as higher ceilings and wider spaces, e.g. shipping, structural bias, thermal bending and shrinking and structural aging Material damage due to change is reduced or eliminated, can be easily transported by the construction site without special permission, and is often removable and deployable at the construction site without the use of cranes (they can be used for surface lifting rigs) Can be removed using, e.g. deployed using a cable mechanism), allowing for a significant reduction in work completed on site and a significant increase in work speed, typically significantly cost and scheduling Less processing is possible.

  Further, as described above, the method of removing and deploying the folding building unit of the present invention can obviate the need for a crane that can be expensive and complicated to plan, thereby prefabricated folding building unit. A significant percentage of the building site is made available for installation.

The foregoing will become apparent from the following more specific description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to the same parts through different viewpoints. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis being placed on illustrating embodiments of the invention.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a foldable structure without an interior and exterior finish in the deployed configuration. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a foldable structure without the interior and exterior finishes in the deployed configuration. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the collapsible structural framework of the collapsible building shown in FIG. 1 in an unfolded form, and also shows some detailed views of the structural features of the structural framework. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the unfolding flow of the foldable structural framework of the foldable building of FIG. 1 from the collapsed configuration on the left to the expanded configuration on the right. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a framework element made of four hollow structural steel parts and an intermediate element attached to the framework element. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a powder actuated fastener connection between the wood base and the hollow structural steel part of FIG. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a finished wall panel or component. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing indirect connection between the interior finishing material and the respective framework elements. FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of four folding configurations of a three-axis step-out hinge. FIG. 10 shows a front view (top view) and a top view (bottom view) of two framework elements foldably connected by a 3-axis step-out hinge. FIG. 11 is a top view of the hinge region of the two foldably connected framework elements shown in FIG. 10 for the four folding configurations. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the fixed shaft offset hinge. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of two foldably connected hollow structural steel parts where the crease between the seam or hollow structural steel part and the hinge (s) is covered with a flexible polymer gasket. is there. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a finished wall panel or component. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of four ground lift rigs that hold the folded structural framework of the foldable building. FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing the process of uploading (left to right) or removing (right to left) a foldable building unit on a vehicle. FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the unfolding flow of the foldable structural framework of the foldable building of FIG. 2 from the left folded configuration to the right expanded configuration. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a folded wall corner in the unfolded configuration and substantially finished condition. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the folded wall corner of FIG. 18 in a finished state. FIG. 20 illustrates the use of a cable mechanism in the deployment and folding of a folding floor part of a folding building unit. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the details of the hinged wall in the unfolded configuration and in a substantially finished state. 22 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the hinged wall of FIG. 21 in a finished state. FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a development flow of one embodiment of a light-layered single-story folding building of the present invention. FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of a fixed axis offset hinge in a deployed configuration with each hinge remaining attached to a structural member.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention continues below.

  The teachings of the present invention are applicable to a variety of structures of different weights, sizes, shapes and materials for a variety of different uses, but for purposes of the following description, the present invention has been pre-made. Describe in the context of a foldable building unit.

  The foldable building of the present invention (more generally, a foldable building unit) can be pre-fabricated so that the foldable building is in a substantially finished state after deployment at a building site. That is, do they require the addition of additional building parts such as wall panels, floor and roof parts, or the addition of interior and exterior finishing materials, except for non-critical non-structural finishes in the areas required for folding movements? Or greatly reduced. However, the pre-fabrication process can be substantially reduced to the extent that the foldable structural framework of the present invention is simply pre-fabricated and deployed at the building site.

  In addition, all mechanical and electrical systems required for residential or commercial foldable buildings, such as all necessary appliances and plumbing, will have their core structure at the time of prefabrication of the foldable building. Medium (i.e. part of a structural framework of a foldable building made with a framework element that is not deployed at a construction site, typically a framework element that shares at least one fixed seam connection with another framework element ). At this point, the collapsible building is in a finished state and only requires local utilities, such as connections to electrical and sewage equipment, and seam connections to complete it.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a collapsed building 100 in an unfolded form, without interior and exterior finishes. The foldable building includes a structural framework that includes an interconnecting framework element 110 made of hollow structural steel parts and a wooden intermediate element 120 attached thereto. The selected framework element is foldably connected to the hinge 130, which can be the various designs described herein. For simplicity of explanation, interior and exterior finish materials are not shown. Such material is preferably attached to the intermediate element 120 (eg, with adhesive, nail, screwed, welded and / or bolted, otherwise tied).

  The use of appropriately sized metal parts, more typically the hollow structural steel parts shown in Fig. 1, was made as part of the collapsible structural framework of a collapsible building unit, especially with hollow structural steel parts As part of a foldably connected framework element, it has been found advantageous for several reasons, including: less and / or smaller hinges (typically metal hinges) Use to foldably connect the framework elements, which can reduce labor and material costs in the pre-fabrication process, can reduce the cost of on-site finishing, and folding of the foldably connected framework elements And increase the accuracy of deployment to fit unfinished areas after deployment (e.g. seams of foldably connected framework elements) By allowing pre-fabrication of packaging and exterior materials, on-site finishing effort and material costs can be further reduced (e.g., to complete typical folding wall corners with minimal on-site effort) (See FIGS. 18 and 19 for desired finish materials that can be pre-fabricated). Using large framework dimensions as part of the structural framework, e.g. rectangular framework elements that extend across the sides of the foldable building (see e.g. wall framework element 450 in Fig. 4), the cost of prefabrication can be reduced and / Or deployment can be simplified.

  In addition, foldable structural frameworks made substantially of metal framework elements (e.g., made of hot-formed steel, e.g., hollow structural steel parts) can be pre-fabricated to be highly resistant and substantially when deployed. Each foldable building unit in the finished state reduces or eliminates the gaps in the seam areas between the foldably connected framework elements, thereby finishing these seam areas in the field. The work involved is reduced.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a further collapsible building 200 in the deployed configuration, without interior and exterior finishes. The collapsible building includes a structural framework that includes interconnected framework elements 110 and wooden intermediate elements 120 made of hollow structural steel parts for attachment of finishing materials (not shown). The selected framework elements are foldably connected by a hinge 130. A collapsible structure includes framework elements that are deployed upon deployment and others that remain fixed. The foldable building roof includes a fixed roof part 210 and a foldable roof part 215 foldably connected to the roof part 210 secured by a hinge 130. The foldable building floor includes a fixed floor piece 220 foldably connected to the foldable floor piece 225. Furthermore, the fixed roof part 210 and the fixed floor part 220 are fixedly connected to the fixed wall parts 230, 232 and 234. The fixed wall part 232 is foldably connected to a foldable wall part 240 that is further foldably connected to the foldable wall part 242 itself. The fixed wall part 234 is foldably connected to a foldable wall part 244 that is further foldably connected to the foldable wall part 246 itself. The foldably connected parts are connected by hinges (all hinges not shown) attached to the framework elements of the respective parts.

  The foldable building unit, such as the foldable building shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, can be further fixed, foldably connected, or fitted into one or more rooms in the unfolded building. It may include several pre-made interior walls (not shown) that can be formed.

  The foldable structure of the present invention can be several stories high. A multi-storey structure can be built using a crane by stacking separate foldable building units with a crane. In this arrangement, the ceiling framework element of the lower unfolded folding building unit is located immediately below the floor framework element of the upper folding building unit. During pre-fabrication, the ceiling of the lower foldable building unit and the floor of the upper foldable structure may include appropriate openings to accommodate the stairs, and the stairs may be included in the lower foldable building unit during pre-fabrication. Can be attached to.

  FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the collapsible structural framework of the collapsible building shown in FIG. 1 in an unfolded configuration, including some detailed views of the structural features of the structural framework.

  4 is a perspective view of the unfolding flow of the collapsible structural framework of the collapsible building of FIG. 1 from the folded configuration 400 on the left to the deployed configuration 300 on the right. Although the deployment flow for a collapsible structural framework is shown, the same deployment flow can be used for each substantially finished collapsible building. A deployment space is provided for the floor framework elements 440 that are foldably connected to the wall framework elements 450 by lifting the roof framework elements 410 and 420 and the light layer truss framework elements 430 (eg, by a cable mechanism). The floor framework element 440 is folded downward with respect to the ground, and the wall framework element 450 is folded upward to establish the wall of the foldable building (front wall). The roof frame elements 410 and 420 are then lowered and connected to the wall frame element 450 to continue the deployment of the wall frame elements 460, 470 and 480 (the wall frame element 480 is foldably connected and is part of the structural frame 400. Note that there is only shown for the deployed form 300 foldable building). It will be appreciated that the deployment flow described above is not the only possible flow for deploying the foldable building 400. For example, the wall framework elements 460 and 470 may be deployed at least partially, at least partially before or upon deployment of the roof framework elements 410 and 420. The core structure of the structural framework is provided by the framework elements that are not moved to the deployed form 300 during deployment.

  The foldable building unit of the present invention can be deployed from one side of the core structure of the structural framework of the foldable building unit, for example as shown in FIG. 4, but is also designed to be deployed from multiple sides. obtain. For example, the foldable building of the present invention can be adapted to be deployed in the opposite two directions.

  FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an unfinished wall part or panel 500 that includes a frame element made of four structural steel parts 510 and an intermediate element attached to the frame element. The intermediate elements are the timber base 520 (i.e. the wooden bottom plate element) and the timber header 530 (i.e. the wooden top plate element), both of which are gunpowder triggers or other suitable fasteners 540 (the timber header 530 as a framework element The connecting fastener is not visible in this perspective) and is fixed to the frame element. A wood stud 550 (ie, stud element) is secured between the wood header 530 and the wood base 520. The interior finish material is attached to the intermediate element (here wood), for example indirectly with a nail, screwed, tied and / or glued, to indirectly connect the framework elements.

  Steel framework elements are combined with wooden intermediate elements as shown in Figure 5 to form a lightweight steel and wood hybrid structure, where structural stability is provided to the framework elements, and substantial lateral structure is provided to the wooden intermediate elements. Resistance is provided and wooden intermediate elements are used to attach interior and exterior finish materials using standard construction approaches, reducing labor training and associated costs. By using these strong and lightweight structures (especially by using the folding structural framework of the present invention), the amount of building materials required is significantly reduced, and the weight of the framework elements can be reduced. Thus, the weight of the folding building unit is reduced, making it easier to transport larger folded building units for a given maximum allowable weight according to a given road limit. Furthermore, the reduced weight of the foldably connected framework elements can facilitate the deployment of these framing elements without the use of a crane.

  FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a gunpowder-activated fastener connection or other suitable fastener connection of the connection of the wood base 520 of FIG. 5 to the structural steel part 510. The wood base 520 is arranged and dimensioned to provide a wood offset 610 with the steel of the hollow structural steel part 510. The wood offset 610 may reduce or prevent contact between the interior finish material (not shown; eg, drywall attached to the wood base 520) and the steel. This may reduce heat transfer and / or reduce or prevent contact between potential condensate formed on the steel and the interior finish material.

  By using explosive triggers, a strong connection between the wooden intermediate element and the steel framework element (especially made of hollow structural steel) is quickly established, reducing the cost of pre-fabrication and significant connection strength Has been found to be available.

  FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a finished wall panel or component 700 that may be obtained by attaching interior finish materials such as gypsum wall board 710 and skirting board 720 to an unfinished wall panel. Finished wall panel 700 includes interior finish materials such as gypsum wall board 710 and skirting board 720 indirectly coupled to the respective framework elements. A further indirect connection is illustrated in FIG.

  FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the indirect connection of interior finish materials and respective framework elements. Interior finish materials, such as gypsum wall board 710, are attached to the bottom plate (here, the wood sill plate 520) and then secured to the hollow structural steel part 510 using a gunpowder trigger or other suitable fastener 540. The A skirting board 720 is attached to the gypsum wall board 710 and optionally a plywood backing board 810 fills the gap in the wood offset.

  The indirect coupling shown in FIG. 8 allows for a reduction in the transfer of structural stress from the structural framework to the interior finish material, reduces heat dissipation, and has some potential to improve humidity regulation One of the concatenations. Further indirect linkage is shown in FIGS.

  The indirect coupling of interior and / or exterior finishing materials to metal framework elements (especially framework elements made of structural steel parts) makes the friable or brittle finish material a prefabricated folding building unit It is an aspect of a “multi-resistive” construction approach that absorbs shocks away from vibrations, motions and stabilizing forces on the structural framework during shipping, installation, deployment and stabilization. The second aspect of the multi-resistive construction approach is to safely nest frame elements connected by hinges (i.e., foldably connected by one or more hinges) at a predetermined distance from adjacent frame elements. In particular, the offset hinge of the present invention can be provided in such a way that, for example, it is possible to make the wall deeper and include the finishing material in advance. This is associated with a significant reduction in the scope of work completed on-site and can be handled with much less expense and scheduling. Thus, the folding building unit of the present invention may include a final interior finish such as a decorative wood trim, gypsum board, paint or wallpaper.

  FIG. 9 is a perspective view of four types of folding configurations of a three-axis step-out hinge 900 (eg, offset hinge type). The hinge springs 910 extend toward the hinge knuckle 920 around the hinge pin 930. The central hinge spring 940 extends in two directions toward the hinge knuckle 920 around the hinge pin 930. The folded form can be part of a folding and / or unfolding flow.

  The 3-axis step-out hinge provides folding flexibility and can increase the packing / folding degree of the folding building unit.

  FIG. 10 shows a front view (top view) and a top view (bottom view) of two framework elements 110 that are foldably connected by a three-axis step-out hinge 900.

  FIG. 11 is a top view of the hinge region of the two foldably connected framework elements 110 shown in FIG. 10, folded from the unfolded configuration (e.g., the folded configuration shown on the left) to the right. 4 shows four types of folding forms that may be part of the flow of development to form. One of the framework elements 110 is joined to one of the hinge springs 910 of the 3-axis step-out hinge by a flat surface with two foldably connected framework elements in the deployed configuration shown on the left side of the figure Are connected via spacer elements 1110 of dimensions and arrangement as formed in FIG. As seen for the folded configuration, the 3-axis step-out hinge can provide an offset 1120. Thus, interior finish materials (not shown) attached to the framework elements can be stepped together.

  FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the fixed shaft offset hinge. A hinge spring 910 having an extended hinge knuckle 1210 around the hinge pin 930 can rotate about an axis provided by the hinge pin 930. In the fully folded configuration (not shown), the offset hinge provides an offset that increases with the length of the extension 1220 of the extended hinge knuckle 1210. Thus, interior finish materials (not shown) attached to the framework elements can be stepped together.

  FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of two foldably connected hollow structural steel parts 510, where the seam or crease between the hollow structural steel part 510 and the hinge (s) 1310 is a hollow structural steel Covered with a flexible polymer gasket 1320 attached to the part (eg, with an adhesive).

  FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a finished wall panel or part illustrating the indirect connection of interior and exterior finish materials to the structural steel part of the framework element. Two intermediate elements, a wood face plate 1410 and a wood plate 1420 (eg, a wood base) are attached to the rectangular structural steel part 1430. Further, a wood inter-column 1440 is attached to the wood plate 1420. Interior finish material 1460 (eg, gypsum board) is attached to the wood board 1420. Exterior finish material 1450 (eg, plywood or OSB sheet (sheating)) is attached to wood faceplate 1410, woodboard 1420 and / or wood studs 1440.

  FIG. 15 is a perspective view of four ground lift rigs 1510 that hold a folded steel assembly 1520 of a foldable building. Although only steel assemblies are shown, various finished foldable building units can be held, lifted and lowered using a ground lifting rig such as that shown. Each lifting rig 1510 includes a hoist 1530 (eg, manual or electric) and a lifting member 1540 (eg, a chain with hooks for connection to a solid stock steel rig). The connecting member 1550 (eg, solid stock steel rig) is connected to the lifting member 1540 of the ground lifting rig 1510. The connecting member can be part of a folded steel assembly and can be extended to the extended position as shown or inserted into the folded steel assembly (e.g. hollow structural steel parts of floor framework elements) Can be a separate part.

  FIG. 16 shows the loading (left to right) or removal of a folding building unit (here, the folded folding building unit is shown for its folded steel assembly 1520) to the vehicle 1610. It is a perspective view illustrating the process of (from right to left). For loading, the surface lifting rig is placed next to a foldable building unit (which is fully folded to meet transportation regulations). The folded steel assembly 1520 and the lifting member of the surface lifting rig are attached to the folded building unit. The lifting rig is then operated to lift the folded building unit high enough to allow the vehicle 1610 to drive its loading area 1620 below the folded steel assembly. On the left, the four surface lifting rigs 1510 have a steel assembly 1520 folded at a height high enough to drive its loading area 1620 below the steel assembly 1520 in which the vehicle 1610 is folded. keeping. As shown in the middle and right of the figure, the vehicle 1610 moves its load area 1620 below the folded steel assembly. As shown on the right, after properly placing the loading area 1620 under the folded building unit, the lifting rig can be operated to lower the building unit onto the loading area. The surface lifting rig can then be separated and, if desired, the surface lifting rig is also transported to the building site for use in removing the folding building unit.

  FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the unfolding flow of the collapsible structural framework of the collapsible building of FIG. 2 from the folded configuration 1700 on the left to the deployed configuration 1710 on the right. Although the deployment flow is shown for a collapsible structural framework, the same deployment flow can be used for each substantially finished collapsible building. First, the floor 1720 and / or roof panel 1730 is deployed, and then the wall panels 1740 and 1750 connected by two separate sets of hinges are deployed to complete the building envelope.

  FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a folded wall corner in the unfolded configuration and substantially finished condition. The hinge 1810 is attached to two foldably connected framework element members 1820 (typically hollow structural steel parts). Intermediate element 1830 (eg, wood) is attached to member 1820. Interior finish materials such as drywall 1840 are attached to the intermediate element 1830. Exterior finishing materials such as sheet 1850 (e.g. Advantech (R) sheet), housewrap 1860, siding 1870 (e.g. wood or corrugated steel siding) and plywood 1880 are dimensioned to accommodate the folding of the framework elements Attached directly or indirectly to the intermediate element 1830 so as to leave an unfinished region 1890 of the substrate.

  FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the folded wall corner of FIG. 18 in a finished state. Additional interior finish materials, such as drywall 1910 (eg, by drywall adhesive and / or screwing) are attached to the intermediate element by tape 1920 at the seam. In addition, exterior finish materials such as foam 1930 and wood decoration woodworking section 1940 are added to finish the unfinished exterior area.

  FIG. 20 illustrates the use of a cable mechanism in the deployment and folding of the folding floor component 2000 of the folding building unit. For ease of explanation, only a part of the structural framework of the folding building unit is shown in a cross-sectional view. The cable 2010 of the electric winch 2020 (e.g. attached to a fixed part of the structural framework) is suitable for folding (here lifting) or unfolding (here lowering) of the folding floor part 2000 through appropriately selected framework elements Guided to a different position. If the cable is attached to a light layer truss, the cable mechanism can be used to raise or lower the light layer truss.

  FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of detail 2100 of the hinged wall in the unfolded configuration and substantially finished condition. Hinge 2110 includes first structural member 2120 (typically a structural steel part) of a first substantially finished panel (only the portion shown in the cross-sectional view) and a second substantially finished A second structural member 2130 (typically, a structural steel part) of the panel (only the part shown in the sectional view) is foldably connected. Intermediate elements 2140 and 2150 (eg, wood here) are attached to members 2120 and 2130, respectively. An interior finish material, such as drywall 2160, is attached to the intermediate elements 2140 and 2150. Exterior finish materials such as sheet 2170 (e.g. Advantech (R) sheet), siding 2180 (e.g. wood or corrugated steel siding) and plywood 2190 leave an unfinished area 2195 sized to accommodate the folding of the framework elements To the intermediate elements 2140 and 2150 directly or indirectly.

  The collapsible connection between two substantially finished wall panels can include one or more, typically at least two hinges that can be constructed and arranged as shown, for example, in FIG.

  22 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the hinged wall of FIG. 21 in a finished state 2200. FIG. Additional interior finish materials, such as foil-lined drywall 2210 (eg, with adhesive and / or screwing) are attached to the intermediate element by tape 2220 at the seam. Further, exterior finish materials such as foam 2230 and wood (for example, cedar) interior woodworking section 2240 are added to finish the exterior area that has not been finished.

  The details of the hinged wall of FIGS. 21 and 22 separate the direct contact between the structural member that is more fragile and that is fragile when force is substantially transmitted from the structural member. Furthermore, the details of the hinged wall do not provide a direct metal path between the structural exterior and interior to prevent undesired heat transfer between the interior and exterior of the structure.

  FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the unfolding flow for one aspect of the light layered single story folding structure of the present invention from the folded configuration 2300 to the deployed configuration 2310. FIG. The collapsed building is very compact and of appropriate dimensions to allow efficient transport to the building site. The deployment flow can be used by one or more of the substantially finished states, more typically all panels (fixed or foldably connected), and windows 2320 and doors 2330 are also folded. Can be part of a designated building. First, a floor panel 2340 is deployed that is hinged to a core structure 2350 of a foldable building. Floor panel 2340 is further hingedly coupled to wall panel 2360, which is typically deployed after floor panel 2340 is deployed. In addition, wall panels 2370 and 2380 connected to the core structure by hinges are deployed and secured to the deployed wall panel 2360. The roof panel 2390 is then deployed and secured to one or more deployed wall panels.

  FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of a fixed axis offset hinge 2410, shown in a deployed configuration, with each hinge spring 2420 attached to a structural member (typically a structural steel member). Typically, a fixed axis offset hinge, such as that shown in the drawings, is attached to the structural member such that a resistive portion 2420 (eg, 1/8 inch) is provided. In the fully deployed configuration (not shown), the offset hinge provides an offset that allows for sufficient removal of finishes and other materials. Furthermore, interior finish materials (not shown) attached to the framework elements can be sufficiently stepped together to avoid direct and potentially damaging contact, for example during transport.

  The foldable building unit of the present invention is rugged that allows smooth and easy deployment of prefabricated homes in the field without the need for one or more cranes that can be expensive and complex to plan A cost effective cable mechanism can be used and adapted as appropriate for deployment.

  Specifically, the foldable structural framework of the present invention is made, at least in part, of a material having a point load strength adapted to the point load generated by pulling each framework element with a device such as a cable hoist. Can include framework elements.

  The use of the surface rig of the present invention may have several advantages listed below compared to the use of a crane for removal of a folding building unit. The surface lifting rig can be used at a construction site to remove a foldable building unit that is not suitable for use with a crane or is not accessible by a crane. In addition, the surface rig can be moved by means of transportation with the folded building unit so that it can be moved at any desired time without prior scheduling (usually necessary when using a crane). Detachable.

  As used herein, a “foldable building unit” is a part of a building or the whole building, where the part or the whole building is foldable, i.e., a folded configuration from an expanded configuration. Can be folded into the opposite, and vice versa. For example, a foldable building unit can be one or more foldable rooms of a building, a foldable floor of a building, or an entire foldable building. Preferably, the folding building unit is the entire folding building. The foldable part of the building or the whole of the foldable building can typically be several stories high in the unfolded form, but more typically is one or two stories high. It can be. A “deployed form” foldable building unit is a foldable building unit that is deployed in an arrangement in which the foldably connected framework elements can be maintained in the finished state of the foldable building unit. A “folded form” collapsible building unit is a collapsible building unit in which the foldably connected framework elements are folded into an arrangement suitable for loading, transporting and / or removal of the building unit. The foldable building or foldable building unit can be a commercial or residential building.

  The present invention also encompasses buildings higher than two stories. Such a building may be built from a single deployment of a building unit or from a plurality of folding building units, for example, each folding building unit typically ends up on the first floor of a multi-storey building or The second floor. Typically, in many locations, the use of a crane is undesirable due to the associated costs and possible crane scheduling difficulties. However, if a building higher than the second floor is to be built on a construction site, a crane can be used more typically.

  The foldable building of the present invention may have one or more rooms.

  As used herein, a “structural framework” is a major cause of structural stability of a folding building unit in a folded, partially unfolded and unfolded state, and loads (e.g., static , Dynamic and / or vibrational load) refers to the entire member of a foldable building unit. The structural framework of the foldable building unit can be made at least in part by foldably connected framework elements. Other parts of the structural framework can be connected in a fixed relative position. Typically, a structural framework may include both a foldably connected framework element and a framework element connected in a fixed relative position. However, the structural framework can also be composed entirely of foldably connected framework elements. The structural framework can include members made of multiple materials of various forms and dimensions. Suitable materials that can be used include, but are not limited to, wood, metal (eg, aluminum or steel) and polymers. Suitable forms include, but are not limited to, I-beams, wide flange e beams, angles, hollow structural parts, and groove parts. The choice of material, form and dimensions for a given structural part or structural framework member is interdependent and is part of the framework element in which the structural part or structural framework member arrangement and the member are foldably connected Depends on factors such as whether or not.

  As used herein, “framework element” refers to an element of a structural framework of a foldable building unit that includes a plurality of members that form a closed or open framework. Typically, the members form a closed framework. However, the member can also form an open framework or have additional members as shown concomitantly. Typically, a framework element foldably connected via a hinge is at least partially made of metal, and the hinge is attached to a metal portion of the framework element, eg, a metal member. The framework element can include one or more members made of metal, and typically the hinged member is made of at least metal. Suitable metals include but are not limited to aluminum and steel. Preferably, the metal member is made of hot-formed steel. Suitable hot-formed steels include hollow structural steel parts, I-beams and steel channels (typically C-shaped cross sections). Typically, hot formed steel is a hollow structural steel part or a steel groove. Steel members may be joined, for example by welding, to form a steel framework element.

  The framework element can include a portion, or can have an element attached to the portion that can automatically guide relative movement of the foldably connected framework elements upon folding and / or deployment.

  The framework element can further include a portion, or can have an element attached to the portion that can automatically lock or bolt the framework element foldably connected in a selected folded configuration.

  Interior and exterior finishing materials can be attached to the structural framework, specifically the framework elements of the structural framework. Interior finish materials include, but are not limited to, wall finishes (eg, gypsum board and Advantech® sheets), ceiling finishes and floor finishes (eg, Advantech® sheets with bamboo flooring on the top surface). Elements include but are not limited to siding and roofing materials.

  For finishing materials, especially interior finishing materials, “indirect coupling” to the framework elements where the contact between the interior finishing material and the framework elements is partially or totally reduced is advantageous for one or more of the following reasons: It was found. The reduced contact reduces (a) the transmission of structural stresses from one or more framework elements of the structural framework to the often brittle and fragile interior finish materials, so that the folding of the folding building unit in particular, Serious damage to the interior finish material (e.g. drywall cracks) during loading, transport, removal and / or deployment can be reduced or eliminated, (b) condensation of water on the interior finish material, e.g. metal parts of the framework elements The resulting exposure to water can be reduced or eliminated, and (c) the transfer of heat between the interior of the finished building unit and the exterior of the finished building unit can be reduced.

  Therefore, it is generally preferred to use an indirect connection rather than a direct connection between the finishing material, in particular the interior finishing material and the respective framework elements. However, although indirect connections are typically preferred, it is not necessary for all connections between the interior finish material and the respective framework elements to be indirect.

  Indirect coupling is particularly preferred for framework elements made entirely of metal, ie metal framework elements. However, although “indirect coupling” is preferred, there may also be direct coupling (eg adhesives, screws, nails, etc.) to the metal part of the framework element.

  Indirect coupling can be provided via an intermediate element. The intermediate element can be made of multiple materials. Preferably, the intermediate element can be made, at least in part, of a material that has the effect of absorbing force, ie force cushioning elements such as, for example, wood, spray foam and lightweight inner diameter aluminum studs. Typically, the intermediate element may connect the framework element via one region of the intermediate element (e.g., via one side of the intermediate element) (e.g., using a gunpowder trigger or a self-tapping screw) To a finishing material, in particular an interior finishing material, which can be connected to it and via another area of the intermediate element (e.g. via the other side of the intermediate element) (e.g. using nails or screws) Arrangement and dimensions such that they can be coupled. Even more preferably, the intermediate element is made entirely of a force absorbing material such as wood. The collapsible building unit of the present invention may include substantially finished wall panels, roof and floor parts, i.e. unfinished areas and wall-connected seams dimensioned to accommodate the folding of the framework elements ( These wall panels, roof and floor parts are completed, except in areas that are not connected but are not finished because of the seam between the walls that together form the wall when deployed.

  A “finished panel” as referred to herein is a panel that includes a framework element and interior finish material coupled thereto (typically indirectly) and may also include elements such as doors and windows. Finished panels can be, for example, finished wall panels, finished floor panels, finished ceiling panels, and finished roof panels.

  “Metal hinge” as referred to herein refers to a hinge in which at least load bearing parts (eg, hinge springs, hinge knuckles and hinge pin (s)) are made of metal. Preferably, all hinges are made of metal. Preferably, the metal is steel.

  An “offset hinge” as referred to herein is a hinge that includes at least two hinge springs that are foldably connected and provides an offset between the two hinge springs in a folded configuration. The offset hinge may include two hinge springs foldably connected about one, two, three or more axes. An offset set hinge that provides a single axis of rotation is hereinafter also referred to as a “fixed-axis hinge”. Preferably, the fixed shaft hinge is made of two hinge springs having extended hinge knuckles attached to the hinge spring, the extended hinge knuckles extending around the hinge pins to foldably connect the hinge springs. For offset hinges, the extension provided by each of the extended hinge knuckles can be the same length or different. Typically, the extension provided by each of the extended hinge knuckles of the offset hinge is the same. For example, extended hinge knuckles of different extended lengths may be desirable when the thickness of two foldably connected framework elements are different. The greater the extension provided by the extended hinge knuckle of the offset hinge, the greater the offset between interior finish materials connected to the framework elements (typically indirectly).

  Typically, at least the load bearing portion (eg, hinge spring, elongated hinge knuckle, and hinge pin (s)) of the offset hinge is made of metal. Preferably, the entire offset hinge is made of metal. Preferably, the metal is steel.

  An offset hinge that provides two, three or more axes of rotation is hereinafter also referred to as a “step-out hinge”. As the number of axes provided by the step-out hinge increases, the degree of folding freedom increases, but at the same time, the adjustment of the folding process becomes increasingly difficult. Preferably, the step-out hinge provides three axes of rotation (ie, a 3-axis step-out hinge). More preferably, the step-out hinge includes a first hinge spring, a second hinge spring, a first central hinge spring, and a second hinge spring, wherein the first hinge spring is a first central hinge spring. The first central hinge spring is foldably connected to the second central hinge spring, and the second central hinge spring is foldably connected to the second hinge spring. It has been found that step-out hinges with multiple axes provide advantageous folding flexibility compared to single-axis hinges. Typically, at least the load bearing portion of the step-out hinge (eg, hinge spring, elongated hinge knuckle and hinge pin (s)) is made of metal. Preferably, the entire step-out hinge is made of metal. Suitable metals include steel. The hinges can be attached to the framework elements via respective hinge springs to foldably connect the framework elements. In the preferred case of a metal hinge attached to a metal part of the framework element, such as a metal member or an all-metal framework element, the hinge may be attached, for example by welding. Typically, the hinge spring of a metal hinge is welded to the framework element using methods known in the art.

  Hinges, in particular offset hinges and step-out hinges (which may also be offset hinges) allow multiple folding configurations associated with the respective relative positions of the hinge springs and the respective attached framework elements. Typically, a step-out hinge suitable for the present invention provides an offset. For example, FIG. 9 shows perspective views of four different folding configurations of a three-axis step-out hinge that provides an offset in the folded configuration. Typically, for a 3-axis step-out hinge, the folded configuration is as shown at the bottom of FIG. If the interior finish material is connected (typically indirectly) to the framework elements so as to face each other in the folded configuration, the three-axis step-out hinge provides an offset in the folded configuration, i.e. it Due to this, the interior finishing material steps up one another. When hinges are used to foldably connect two framework elements that jointly form a flat surface, for example, a floor in a finished building unit, the folded configuration as shown at the top is the deployed configuration Can correspond to When using hinges to foldably connect two framework elements that jointly form a 90 ° wall corner in a finished building unit, for example, the third folded configuration shown in FIG. It can correspond to the deployed form. If it is desired that the two foldably connected framework elements be arranged at different angles in the finished building unit, other folding arrangements of the three-axis step-out hinge may correspond to the deployed configuration.

  The hinge and / or the framework element may further include a spacer element that is sandwiched between the hinge spring and the framework element to achieve the desired deployment of the foldably connected framework element (e.g., features of FIG. 11 1110). Additionally or alternatively, the hinge spring, part of the framework element member, the framework element member or the entire framework element may have different dimensions to achieve a co-formed flat surface.

  The hinges used in the folding building unit of the present invention can be adapted and arranged to be maintained in the building unit in the unfolded form and finished state.

  The spacer element can be part of a 3-axis step-out hinge, and in particular one of the hinge springs of the 3-axis step-out hinge can have a thickness that eliminates the need for the spacer element. The spacer element may also be part of the framework element, for example the framework element may have a thickness that obviates the need for the spacer element in the area where the hinge spring is attached. Alternatively, the spacer element can be a separate element that can be attached to the hinge spring and the framework element. Typically, the spacer element is made of metal, preferably steel.

  For a foldable building unit prefabricated to include interior finish materials, the folded form of the foldable building unit can be loaded, transported and removed without significant direct contact with the finished material of the folded panel. It is desirable to obtain. It has been found that by using a suitably sized offset hinge, a foldable connection of a frame element having interior finish material attached to the frame element can reduce or completely prevent contact. It was done.

  The foldable building unit of the present invention can be deployed at a building site to provide part or all of a building. Generally, after the folding building unit is deployed, some finishing work is required at the building site.

  A “finished” foldable building unit refers to a building unit that is prepared for commercial or personal use.

  The advantages of the folding building units of the present invention are that after deployment, these building units are substantially finished and require significantly less effort after deployment on the building site than previously described. This means that the building unit can be produced in advance.

  The foldable building unit of the present invention is foldable to facilitate transport of a prefabricated building unit. Preferably, the folded construction unit in the folded form is dimensioned so that no special transport authorization is required for transport by means of transport, preferably semi-trailer. Regulations regarding the handling of trucks and trailers vary from country to country and in some cases from state to state. For example, currently in at least one state in the United States, the length of a semi-trailer that includes a foldable building unit can be up to 53 feet without the need for a commercial motor vehicle license. The width can be up to 102 inches without the need for a commercial car license, and the height of the semi-trailer including the folding building unit can be up to 13 feet 6 inches without the need for a commercial car license .

  As referred to herein, a “transportation means” is a vehicle suitable for transporting a foldable building unit along a road to a building site. Typically, the transportation means is a semi-trailer.

  As referred to herein, a “ground lift rig” is adapted to move a load and is typically adapted to lift a load and includes at least one lifting member that can be coupled to a collapsible building unit. Device. The ground lifting rig is designed for its structural stability and lifting force, and the device can be used to lift a foldable housing module without structural damage to the lifting rig. Typically, the surface lifting rig is mobile. They are also preferably small for ease of transport with the folding building unit, for example in a transport means for transporting the folding building unit. The ground lifting rig can be manually powered (e.g., a manual hoist), or it can be powered by another power source (e.g., an electric hoist, an electric hydraulic system, air powered lift, etc.). ) Can be used. The surface lifting rig may be adapted to be installed on various types of surfaces that may be flat, non-flat and / or tilted or untilted.

  As referred to herein, a “lifting member” is a part of a surface lifting rig that can be connected to a connecting member or directly connected to a foldable building unit and is moved during the lifting of the foldable housing module. The lifting rig may have one or more lifting members. Typically, the lifting rig includes one lifting member. The lifting member may be any part that may temporarily contact or be attached to the coupling member, or may be in direct contact with or attached to the folding building unit, and Or adapted to maintain contact or attachment during descent.

  As referred to herein, a “connecting member” is any part of a structural framework or a portion that can be attached to a structural framework and can be coupled to a lifting member of a ground lifting rig, It is adapted to maintain the connection between the folding building unit and the lifting member of the ground lifting rig during lifting and / or lowering.

  Polymer gaskets can be used to cover the creases and hinges (such as offset hinges and step-out hinges) of seams or foldably connected members (eg, hollow structural steel parts) of each framework element. A suitable polymer gasket is sufficiently flexible to prevent breakage of the polymer gasket during folding and deployment, does not interfere with folding and deployment, and is preferably not water permeable. An example is shown in FIG.

  Seams or folds of foldably connected framework elements, preferably all boundaries of the folded components, are lined with polymer gaskets at the same time as pre-fabrication, which is time consuming and error prone in the field The need for weatherproofing can be reduced or eliminated.

  While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as encompassed by the appended claims. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that this can be done.

Claims (57)

(a) a structural framework made at least in part of a framework element foldably connected by a metal hinge; and
(b) a foldable building unit comprising an interior finish material indirectly coupled to the framework element so as to reduce contact between the interior finish material and the framework element;
A collapsible building unit, wherein the framework element is made at least in part of metal and the metal hinge is attached to a metal portion of the framework element.   The framework elements and the respective interior finishing materials are adapted to prevent significant damage to the interior finishing materials during folding, loading, transporting, removal and / or deployment of the folding building unit, via intermediate elements arranged The foldable building unit according to claim 1, wherein the foldable building unit is attached indirectly.   The collapsible building unit according to claim 2, wherein the intermediate element is a force absorbing element.   4. A folding building unit according to claim 3, wherein the force-absorbing element comprises a bottom plate element and a top plate element fixed to the framework element and attached with interior finish material.   The collapsible building unit of claim 4, further comprising a stud element between the bottom plate element and the top plate element.   The intermediate element is fixed to the metal part of the framework element using powder-actuated fasteners, bolts, self-drilling screws or self-taping screws The foldable construction unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5.   7. A foldable building unit according to any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the metal hinge is adapted and arranged to be maintained in the finished foldable building unit.   8. A foldable building unit according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the framework element is made at least in part from structural steel.   9. A foldable building unit according to claim 8, wherein the structural steel is a hollow structural steel part, an I-beam, a wide-flange e-beam or a steel channel.   9. A foldable building unit according to claim 8, wherein the framework elements are made of structural steel parts.   The foldable building unit according to any one of claims 1 to 8, which is a foldable building.   The foldable building unit according to claim 11, wherein the foldable building in the unfolded form is in a substantially finished state.   The foldable building unit according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the foldable foldable building unit is dimensioned so that no special transport permit is required for transport by semi-trailer.   At least in part, a foldable building unit comprising a structural framework made of a framework element foldably connected by an offset hinge, wherein the offset hinge is attached to a metal portion of the framework element, A collapsible building unit in which, when folded, interior finishing materials connected to the framework elements are adapted and arranged on the framework elements so as to offset each other.   The foldable building unit of claim 14, wherein the at least two framework elements are foldably connected by an offset hinge that is a step-out hinge.   The foldable building unit of claim 14, wherein the offset hinge is a metal offset hinge.   15. The foldable building unit of claim 14, wherein the offset is dimensioned to prevent significant contact of the folded interior finish material during loading, transportation and / or removal of the foldable building unit.   18. A collapsible building unit according to any of claims 14 to 17, wherein the offset hinge is adapted and arranged to be maintained in the building unit in the deployed and finished state.   19. A foldable building unit according to any of claims 14 to 18, wherein the framework element is made at least in part from structural steel.   20. A foldable building unit according to claim 19, wherein the structural steel is a hollow structural steel part or a steel groove.   21. A foldable building unit according to claim 20, wherein the framework element is made of a hollow structural steel part.   The foldable building unit according to any one of claims 14 to 21, which is a foldable building.   23. A collapsible building unit according to claim 22, wherein the unfolded form of the collapsible building is in a substantially finished state.   24. A foldable building unit according to any of claims 14 to 23, wherein the foldable foldable building unit is dimensioned so that no special transport permit is required for transport on a semi-trailer.   A foldable building unit comprising a structural framework made at least in part with a framework element foldably connected by a metal hinge, wherein the framework element is made at least in part of metal, A collapsible building unit that is attached to the metal part of the framework element and is adapted and arranged so that the metal hinge is maintained in the deployed and finished construction unit.   26. A foldable building unit according to claim 25, wherein the framework element is made at least in part from structural steel.   27. A foldable building unit according to claim 26, wherein the structural steel is a hollow structural steel part or a steel groove.   27. A collapsible building unit according to claim 26, wherein the framework elements are made of hollow structural steel parts.   The foldable building unit according to any one of claims 25 to 28, which is a foldable building.   30. A foldable building unit according to claim 29, wherein the foldable building in the unfolded form is in a substantially finished state.   31. A foldable building unit according to any one of claims 25-30, wherein the foldable foldable building unit is dimensioned so that no special transport permit is required for transport on a semi-trailer. (a) Finished wall panels connected foldably;
(b) a finished floor panel foldably connected; and
(c) a foldable structure comprising a foldably connected finished ceiling panel and / or a finished roof panel, wherein the folded form of the unfolded form is substantially finished A foldable building that is in state.   A foldable building having a structural framework adapted to be coupled to a surface lifting rig for lifting and / or lowering the foldable building.   The structural framework includes a coupling member for coupling with the ground lifting rig, and / or the structural framework is adapted for attachment of the coupling member, and the coupling member is adapted and arranged to couple the ground lifting rig 34. The foldable structure of claim 33.   35. A collapsible building according to claim 34, wherein the connecting member is a structural metal part that is extendable from or attachable to the structural framework. (a) The ground lifting rig is positioned next to the vehicle in a position adapted to allow the lifting member of the ground lifting rig to be attached to the folding building unit and adapted to lift the folding building unit. Placing on;
(b) attaching the lifting rig lifting member to the folding building unit;
(c) operating the lifting rig to lift the collapsible housing module from the means of transport; and
(d) A method of removing a foldable building unit from a vehicle, comprising the step of operating the vehicle from below the foldable housing module to a location where the loading area of the vehicle is removed.   38. The method of claim 36, further comprising the step of lowering the collapsible housing module to the ground or foundation.   38. The method of claim 36, wherein at least two lifting rigs are used to lift the folding housing module of the folding building unit.   37. The method of claim 36, wherein at least three lifting rigs are used to lift the folding housing module of the folding building unit.   37. The method of claim 36, wherein attaching the lifting member to the foldable building unit includes attaching the lifting member to the connecting member of the foldable building unit.   41. A method according to any of claims 36 to 40, wherein the foldable building unit is a folded building.   Use one or more of a cable mechanism, hydraulic mechanism, or air mechanism to deploy a folded framework element that is part of the structural framework of a folded building unit from a folded configuration to a deployed configuration A method of unfolding a folded building unit, including a process.   43. The method of claim 42, wherein a cable mechanism is used. Attaching the cable support beams to the folded building unit and / or extending one or more cable support beams from the collapsed position to the deployed position to a position adapted to pull the metal framework elements out. ;
Attaching the cable guided by the support beam directly or indirectly to a metal framework element that is deployed pivotally about the axis; and a metal framework that is deployed by rotating the cable about the axis. 44. The method of claim 43, further comprising drawing to the element. Guiding the cable through the position from the winder to the folded frame element, where the position is adapted to deploy the frame element through the position by pulling the cable through the winder; and winding 44. The method of claim 43, further comprising manipulating the machine to pull the cable through the location and deploy the framework element.   45. A method according to any of claims 42 to 44, wherein the folded building unit is a folded building.   A collapsible structure comprising a core structure made of a first frame element fixedly connected and a second frame element hinged directly or indirectly to the core structure, A collapsible building, wherein the framework element is made of a metal member and the core structure and the second framework element are part of the structural framework of the collapsible building.   48. A foldable building according to claim 47, wherein the metal member is a hollow structural steel part.   48. The foldable building of claim 47, which is a foldable house. (a) a structural framework made at least in part of framework elements foldably connected by an offset hinge; and
(b) a foldable building unit comprising an interior finish material indirectly coupled to the framework element so as to reduce contact between the interior finish material and the framework element;
When the framework element is made of metal at least in part, the offset hinge is attached to the metal part of the framework element, and the offset hinge is folded, the interior finishing materials connected to the framework element step together. Folding building units that are fitted and arranged on the framework elements. (a) a structural framework made at least in part by framework elements foldably connected by a metal hinge; and
(b) a foldable building unit comprising an interior finish material indirectly coupled to the framework element so as to reduce contact between the interior finish material and the framework element;
The framework element is made of metal at least in part, the metal hinge is attached to the metal part of the framework element, and the metal hinge is adapted to be maintained in the deployed and finished construction unit Folded building unit that is placed and placed. (a) a structural framework made at least in part of framework elements foldably connected by an offset hinge; and
(b) a foldable building unit comprising an interior finish material indirectly coupled to the framework element so as to reduce contact between the interior finish material and the framework element;
When the framework element is made of metal at least in part, the offset hinge is attached to the metal part of the framework element, and the offset hinge is folded, the interior finishing materials connected to the framework element step together. Folding construction, which is a metal hinge adapted and arranged to be maintained in a building unit in a deployed and finished state, fitted and arranged on a framework element unit. (a) a core structure made of a fixedly connected first framework element;
(b) a second framework element connected directly or indirectly to the core structure by a hinge, wherein the second framework element is made of a metal member, and the core structure and the second framework element are foldable Part of the structural framework of the building; and
(c) a foldable structure comprising an interior finish material indirectly coupled to a second framework element so as to reduce direct contact between the interior finish material and the framework element;
One or more of the second frame elements are offset hinges attached to the frame elements and are connected by the hinges so that when the offset hinges are folded, the interior finish materials connected to the frame elements step together Folding structures that are fitted and placed on the framework elements. (a) a core structure made of a fixedly connected first framework element;
(b) a second framework element connected by a hinge directly or indirectly to the core structure, wherein the second framework element is made of a metal member, and the core structure and the second framework element are foldable Part of the structural framework of the building; and
(c) a foldable structure comprising an interior finish material indirectly coupled to a second framework element so as to reduce direct contact between the interior finish material and the framework element;
One or more of the second framework elements are metal hinges attached to the framework elements, connected by hinges, adapted to be maintained in the building unit in the deployed and finished state A collapsible building that is placed and placed. (a) a core structure made of a fixedly connected first framework element;
(b) a second framework element connected to the core structure directly or indirectly by a hinge, wherein the second framework element is made of a metal member, and the core structure and the second framework element are foldable Part of the structural framework of the building; and
(c) a foldable structure comprising an interior finish material indirectly coupled to a second framework element so as to reduce direct contact between the interior finish material and the framework element;
One or more of the second frame elements are offset hinges attached to the frame elements and are connected by the hinges so that when the offset hinges are folded, the interior finish materials connected to the frame elements step together Folding buildings adapted and arranged to be fitted and arranged on the framework elements, so that the offset hinge is maintained in the deployed and finished construction unit.   A light layer truss that is foldably connected to the first roof frame element on the first side of the light layer truss framework element and foldably connected to the second roof frame element on the second side of the light layer truss element A foldable structure including a foldable light layer roof including a framework element, the second side being opposite the first side.   57. The foldable building of claim 56, wherein the folded light layer roof in the folded configuration provides an outer surface of the folded building in the folded configuration.