US20070256369A1

US20070256369A1 - Systems, methods, and apparatuses for providing a modular housing structure

Info

Publication number: US20070256369A1
Application number: US11/408,419
Authority: US
Inventors: Sean Webb; Craig Miller
Original assignee: AGRIOS Inc
Current assignee: AGRIOS Inc
Priority date: 2006-04-21
Filing date: 2006-04-21
Publication date: 2007-11-08

Abstract

The present invention relates to systems, methods, and apparatuses for providing a modular housing structure. One embodiment of the invention includes a modular housing structure. The modular housing structure includes a plurality of wall modules. Each wall module includes a plurality of wall panel struts. Each wall panel strut includes a wall mounting portion adapted to receive a portion of a wall panel, wherein the wall mounting portion includes at least one wall mounting element adapted to resist movement of the wall panel with respect to the wall mounting portion. The modular housing structure also includes at least one wall panel, wherein each wall panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two wall panel struts, wherein each wall module can mount to an adjacent wall module, whereby a plurality of walls can be formed by the plurality of wall modules.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to the field of structures, and more particularly, relates to systems, methods, and apparatuses for providing a modular housing structure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventional housing structures can utilize frame-type construction and lightweight materials, such as wood, drywall, corrugated metal, and sheet metal. Frame-type construction using such materials can be erected relatively quickly, and can also provide relatively inexpensive shelter for multiple purposes. In some instances, such conventional housing structures can be prefabricated or modularized to permit the use of common building techniques to quickly erect the housing structure. However, frame-type construction using lightweight materials can oftentimes lack sufficient strength to withstand adverse weather conditions such as heavy snow and severe weather, including hail, high winds, or torrential rain. Wood materials, for example, may be prone to water damage and over time may deteriorate or rot. In other instances, frame-type construction using lightweight materials can be prone to security problems, such as vandalism or theft.
One type of conventional housing structure using lightweight materials is used to house a conventional vehicle image acquisition system. This type of structure may not withstand snow, hail, heavy rain, or high winds in a severe storm. The potential loss or damage to the structure and/or to one or more components of vehicle image acquisition system can be time consuming and expensive to repair or replace.
Relatively heavier materials can be utilized with frame-type construction for a housing structure, including brick, reinforced concrete, and steel. However, frame-type construction using heavier materials can oftentimes take much longer to erect. Such construction is not suitable for prefabricated or modularized building techniques, and therefore can be relatively expensive to erect and maintain. Moreover, such construction may involve relatively more complex building techniques, thereby increasing the time and costs to erect a housing structure.
Therefore, a need exists for systems, methods, and apparatuses for providing an improved modular housing structure.
A further need exists for systems, methods, and apparatuses for providing a modular housing structure for a vehicle image acquisition system.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Some or all of the needs can be addressed by embodiments of the present invention. Embodiments of the present invention can provide a modular housing structure. Other embodiments of the present invention can provide a modular housing structure with one or more wall and/or roof modules utilizing a series of struts and compressed panel components. Embodiments of the invention can provide a temporary building structure that is relatively easy to assemble, can provide for modular expansion, and can be relatively more stable and bear greater loads than conventional frame-type building structures and technologies. Embodiments of the invention can be utilized with a vehicle image acquisition system capable of capturing images of a vehicle, such as an automobile, used to identify various parts of the vehicle for purposes of analysis, comparison, and damage identification. Embodiments of the invention can also be used in conjunction with a series of cameras or other image capturing devices, and associated computing functionality with a database.
Essentially, the invention can provide a modular housing structure including a plurality of wall modules. Each wall module includes a plurality of wall panel struts. Each wall panel strut includes a wall mounting portion adapted to receive a portion of a wall panel. The wall mounting portion includes at least one wall mounting element adapted to resist movement of the wall panel with respect to the wall mounting portion. Each wall modules also includes at least one wall panel, wherein each wall panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two wall panel struts, and wherein each wall module can mount to an adjacent wall module, whereby a plurality of walls can be formed by the plurality of wall modules.
In another embodiment, the invention can provide an apparatus with a plurality of walls and a roof. The apparatus can include a plurality of roof panel struts, wherein each roof panel strut is adapted to receive a portion of a roof panel. The apparatus can also include at least one roof panel, wherein each roof panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two roof panel struts. The apparatus can further include a plurality of wall panel struts, wherein each wall panel strut is adapted to receive a portion of a wall panel. In addition, the apparatus can include at least one wall panel, wherein each wall panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two wall panel struts, and wherein the roof panel struts can be mounted to an elevated portion of a plurality of wall panel modules whereby the roof panel struts and at least one roof panel are elevated relative to the plurality of wall panel struts and at least one wall panel.
In yet another embodiment, the invention can provide a structure capable of housing a vehicle image acquisition system. The structure can include a plurality of roof panel struts, wherein each roof panel strut comprises a roof mounting portion comprising a H-shaped clip adapted to receive a portion of a roof panel. Moreover, the structure can include at least one roof panel, wherein each roof panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two roof panel struts, wherein the roof panel is adjacent to a respective roof mounting portion comprising a respective H-shaped clip associated with the at least two roof panel struts. Furthermore, the structure can include a plurality of wall panel struts, wherein each wall panel strut comprises a wall mounting portion comprising a H-shaped clip adapted to receive a portion of a wall panel. In addition, the structure can include at least one wall panel, wherein each wall panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two wall panel struts, wherein the wall panel is adjacent to a respective wall mounting portion comprising a H-shaped clip associated with the two wall panel struts. Further, the roof panel struts can be mounted to an elevated portion of a plurality of wall panel modules whereby the roof panel struts and at least one roof panel are elevated relative to the plurality of wall panel struts and at least one wall panel.
In additional embodiments, associated methods for erecting a modular housing structure can be provided. In one method, the method includes providing a plurality of wall modules. Each wall module includes a plurality of wall panel struts. Each wall panel strut includes a wall mounting portion adapted to receive a portion of a wall panel, wherein the wall mounting portion comprises at least one wall mounting element adapted to resist movement of the wall panel with respect to the wall mounting portion. The wall module also includes at least one wall panel, wherein each wall panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two wall panel struts. The method also includes mounting each wall module to an adjacent wall module, whereby a plurality of walls can be formed by the plurality of wall modules.
In another embodiment, a method for erecting an apparatus with a plurality of walls and a roof can be provided. The method can include providing a plurality of roof panel struts, wherein each roof panel strut is adapted to receive a portion of a roof panel. In addition, the method can include providing at least one roof panel, wherein each roof panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two roof panel struts. Furthermore, the method can include mounting the at least one roof panel to the plurality of roof panel struts. Further, the method can include providing a plurality of wall panel struts, wherein each wall panel strut is adapted to receive a portion of a wall panel. Moreover, the method can include providing at least one wall panel, wherein each wall panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two wall panel struts. The method can also include mounting the at least one wall panel to the plurality of wall panel struts; wherein the roof panel struts can be mounted to an elevated portion of a plurality of wall panel modules whereby the roof panel struts and at least one roof panel are elevated relative to the plurality of wall panel struts and at least one wall panel.
Other embodiments of systems, methods, and apparatuses according to the invention are apparent from the following detailed description of the disclosed embodiments and the appended drawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an example modular housing structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a strut for the modular housing structure shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another strut for a modular housing structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a mounting device used with a modular housing structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a wall panel for a modular housing structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a roof panel for a modular housing structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of the modular housing structure shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 8 illustrates a front view of the modular housing structure shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 9 illustrates an upper view of the modular housing structure shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 10 illustrates a front cross-sectional view of the modular housing structure shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 11 illustrates an upper plan view of the modular housing structure shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a wall shown as detail A in FIG. 10.
FIG. 13 illustrates a view of a ground anchor for a wall shown as detail B in FIG. 10.
FIG. 14 illustrates a view of an arrangement of wall struts, tensioning rods, and wall panels in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 15 illustrates a view of an arrangement of roof struts, tensioning rods, and roof panels in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 16 is a flowchart diagram of an example method in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 17 is a flowchart diagram of another example method in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Various embodiments of the invention address some or all of the above issues and combinations thereof. They do so by providing systems, methods, and apparatuses for providing a modular housing structure. Furthermore, they provide systems, methods, and apparatuses for providing a modular housing structure for a vehicle image acquisition system. Embodiments of the present invention can utilize a series of struts and compressed panels to form one or more wall modules and roof modules for a modular housing structure. The resulting structure is a modular housing structure that is suitable for housing a vehicle image acquisition system.
The term “strut” may include, but is not limited to, a beam, rod, member, structural member, support, or any other structural-type device. Examples of a strut can include, but are not limited to, an extruded aluminum beam with a generally consistent cross-section and a predefined length, such as a 6000 series aluminum alloy metal strut with a friction type locking groove. Example cross-sections of exemplary struts are shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.
The term “module” may include, but is not limited to, a portion of a wall, a portion of a roof, or a series of struts and panels. Examples of a module can include, but are not limited to, a wall module with a series of struts configured in a rectangular-shaped frame and a panel component oriented between at least two of the struts. Examples of exemplary modules are shown in FIGS. 7, 8, and 9.
The term “mounting element” may include, but is not limited to, an apparatus, a device, a component, a connector, or any device capable of mounting one object to another object. Examples of a mounting element can include, but are not limited to, a H-shaped connector. An examples of exemplary mounting element is shown in FIG. 4.
The terms “compressed” and “compression” refer to act or state of a material when the material is forced or otherwise pressed together. For example, a material can be compressed or can be placed into a state of compression when a predefined size or shape of material is forced or pressed into a space slightly smaller than the predefined size or shape of the material.
FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an example modular housing structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Other views of the modular housing structure are shown in FIG. 1 are shown in FIGS. 7-15. The modular housing structure 100 is shown with respect to a surface 102 and a vehicle 104. The structure 100 can be large enough for a vehicle, such as 104, to drive into, stop, and drive through the structure 100. Furthermore, the modular housing structure 100 is capable of housing or otherwise protecting some or all components associated with a vehicle image acquisition system, such as 106.
By way of example, a modular housing structure in accordance with embodiments of the invention can operate in a variety of environments, such as a parking lot, a field, a predefined space, an open space, or any combination therein. One example of an environment in which a modular housing structure in accordance with embodiments of the invention can operate is a surface 102, such as a parking lot, shown in FIG. 1.
By of further example, a modular housing structure in accordance with embodiments of the invention can be embodied in a variety of different shapes and sizes sufficient for a vehicle to drive into, stop, and drive through the structure 100. One example of a vehicle in which a modular housing structure can operate in conjunction with in accordance with embodiments of the invention is a car 104 shown in FIG. 1. Other embodiments of a modular housing structure in accordance with the invention can be used for other purposes, and the above embodiment is provided by way of example only.
By way of additional example, a modular housing structure 100 is capable of housing some or all of the components of a vehicle image acquisition system capable of imaging, managing, and tracking vehicle-related information, such as vehicle damage and/or repair information. In one embodiment, a modular housing structure 100 includes a vehicle image acquisition system with a field unit inspection system and a local computer, such as the vehicle image acquisition system shown as 106 in FIG. 1. The field unit vehicle inspection system can image, manage, and track damage and/or repair information on personal, commercial and/or fleet-type vehicles, such as cars, trucks, or other motorized or non-motorized vehicles. Examples of various components and associated functionality of the field unit inspection system are shown and described with respect to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/255,642, entitled “Systems and Methods for Automated Vehicle Image Acquisition, Analysis, and Reporting,” the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Other embodiments of a modular housing structure in accordance with the invention can be used for other purposes, and the above embodiment is provided by way of example only.
The example modular housing structure shown in FIG. 1 can be constructed from a series of wall struts 108, wall panels 110, roof struts 112, and roof panels 114. In the embodiment shown, a predefined number of wall struts and wall panels can be modularized or assembled together to form a. wall module. Examples of wall struts 108 and roof struts 112 are further described and shown below in FIGS. 2-3, respectively. Examples of wall panels 110 and roof panels 114 are further described and shown below in FIGS. 5-6, respectively.
The embodiment shown in FIG. 1 includes two opposing rectangular-shaped wall modules 116, 118, and two trapezoidal-shaped wall modules 120, 122. Each wall panel in each wall module 116, 118, 120, 122 is preferably in compression, that is, the wall panel is compressed between at least two spaced apart wall struts. The compression force on the wall panel can be increased or decreased as needed using a tensioning rod mounted to each pair of adjacent wall struts. An example of a rectangular-shaped wall module is shown and described in further detail below in FIG. 7, and an example of a trapezoidal-shaped wall module is shown and described in further detail below in FIG. 8. An example of a tensioning rod is shown and described in further detail below in FIG. 12.
Furthermore, a predefined number of roof struts and roof panels can be modularized or assembled together to form a roof module. The embodiment shown in FIG. 1 includes an arched, rectangular-shaped roof module 124. Each roof panel in a roof module is preferably in compression, that is, the roof panel is compressed between at least two spaced apart roof struts. The compression force on the wall panel can be increased or decreased as needed using a tensioning rod mounted to each pair of adjacent wall struts. An example of a roof panel is shown and described in further detail below in FIG. 6, and an example of a roof module is shown and described in further detail below in FIG. 9. An example of a tensioning rod is shown and described in further detail below in FIG. 12.
One or more wall modules can be assembled together with one or more roof modules to form a modular housing structure, such as 100 as shown in FIG. 1. In one example, at least one roof module can be mounted to an elevated portion of a plurality of wall modules whereby the at least one roof module is elevated relative to the plurality of wall modules and a roof can be formed with respect to the plurality of walls.
In one embodiment, a modular housing structure 100 can be constructed from two rectangular-shaped wall modules, a rectangular-shaped roof module, and two end wall modules. In this example, the modular housing structure 100 can have an approximate dimension of 18′-0″ feet in width, 28′-9″ in length, and 10′-11″ in height. The particular dimensions of a modular housing structure 100 can depend on the loading requirements of the modular housing structure 100, or the size of the vehicles, associated vehicle image acquisition system, or other objects to be accommodated within the modular housing structure 100.
FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a strut 200 for the modular housing structure shown in FIG. 1. The strut 200 shown in FIG. 2 can be utilized as a wall strut or a roof strut, similar to 108 and 112, respectively, in FIG. 1. The strut 200 shown in FIG. 2, for example, can be an elongated hollow beam with a rectangular-shaped cross-section. In one embodiment, a strut 200 can have an approximate dimension of 2.0 inches in width and 6.0 inches in depth, and have a wall thickness of approximately 0.096 inches. The particular dimensions and length of the strut 200 can depend on whether the strut 200 is vertically or horizontally aligned in a modular housing structure such as FIG. 1, the loading requirements of a modular housing structure, or the dimensions of a modular housing structure. A strut 200 can be manufactured from, for example but not limited to, extruded aluminum, titanium, composite material, or other relatively strong and lightweight materials. The strut 200 shown in FIG. 2 can be a 6000 series aluminum alloy metal strut with one or more friction type locking grooves.
The strut 200 shown in FIG. 2 can include one or more mounting portions, shown in FIG. 2 as cavities 202, aligned along the exterior surface 204 of the strut 200. Each of the mounting portions, such as cavities 202, is capable of receiving a portion of a panel, such as a wall panel 110 or a roof panel 114 shown in FIG. 1. In the embodiment shown, each mounting portion or cavity 202 a-e is rectangular shaped and substantially extends along the length of the exterior side of the strut. The strut 200 in FIG. 2 includes, for example, five mounting portions or cavities 202 a-e, such as two cavities 202 a, 202 b on an outer face 206, one cavity 202 c on an inner face 208, and one cavity 202 d, 202 e each on each lateral face 210, 212 adjacent to the outer face 206 of the strut 200. Other embodiments of a strut 200 can have fewer or greater numbers of mounting portions or cavities, and may have different configurations and/or shapes of mounting portions or cavities.
FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another strut 300 for a modular housing structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The strut 300 shown in FIG. 3 can be utilized as a wall strut or a roof strut, similar to 108 and 112, respectively, in FIG. 1. Furthermore, the strut can be used as an interior mounting strut capable of mounting to a wall strut, and capable of supporting equipment associated with a vehicle image acquisition system or other equipment such as lighting. The strut 300 shown in FIG. 3, for example, can be an elongated hollow beam with a square-shaped cross-section. In one embodiment, a strut 300 can have an approximate dimension of 2.0 inches in width and 2.0 inches in depth, and have a wall thickness of approximately 0.096 inches. The particular dimensions and length of the strut 300 can depend on whether the strut 300 is vertically or horizontally aligned in a modular housing structure such as FIG. 1, the loading requirements of a modular housing structure, or the dimensions of a modular housing structure. A strut 300 can be manufactured from, for example but not limited to, extruded aluminum, titanium, composite material, or other relatively strong and lightweight materials. The strut 300 shown in FIG. 3 can be a 6000 series aluminum alloy metal strut with one or more friction type locking grooves.
The strut 300 shown in FIG. 3 can include one or more mounting portions, shown in FIG. 3 as cavities 302 a-d, aligned along the exterior surface 304 of the strut 300. Each of the mounting portions, such as cavities 302 a-d, is capable of receiving a portion of a panel, such as a wall panel 110 or a roof panel 114 shown in FIG. 1. In the embodiment shown, each mounting portion or cavity 302 a-d is rectangular shaped and substantially extends along the length of the exterior side of the strut. The strut 300 in FIG. 3 includes, for example, four mounting portions or cavities 302 a-d, such as two cavities 302 a, 302 b on an outer face 306, and two cavities 302 c, 302 d on an inner face 308 of the strut 300. In one embodiment, the cavities of a wall strut can be sized to receive a bolt head of, for example, a ¼″×20 bolt. The bolt head can be mounted into the cavity, and the bolt can be used to mount an additional strut to the wall strut. Equipment associated with a vehicle image acquisition system or other systems or devices, such as lighting, can be mounted to the extended bolt and/or additional mounted strut. Other embodiments of a strut 300 can have fewer or greater numbers of mounting portions or cavities, and may have different dimensions, configurations and/or shapes of mounting portions or cavities.
FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a mounting device for a modular housing structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The mounting device 400 shown in FIG. 4 can be utilized to mount a wall panel to a wall strut, such as wall panel 110 to wall strut 108 shown in FIG. 1. Alternatively, the mounting device 400 shown in FIG. 4 can be utilized to mount a roof panel to a roof strut, such as roof panel 114 to roof strut 110 shown in FIG. 1. The mounting device 400 shown in FIG. 4, for example, can have a square H-shaped cross-section. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, a mounting device 400 can be a H-shaped connector with a pair of tapered cavities 402 a-b. The mounting device 400 or H-shaped connector shown in FIG. 4 can have an approximate dimension of 0.482 inches in width and 1.374 inches in depth, a width at a central body portion 404 of approximately 0.124 inches, an outer width of each cavity 402 a-b of approximately 0.2655 inches, and an inner width of each cavity 402 a-b of approximately 0.235 inches. The particular dimensions and length of the mounting device 400 can depend on the loading requirements of a modular housing structure, or the dimensions of a modular housing structure. A mounting device 400 can be manufactured from, for example but not limited to, extruded aluminum, titanium, composite material, or other relatively strong and lightweight materials.
The mounting device 400 shown in FIG. 4 can include one or more mounting portions, shown in FIG. 4 as cavities 402 a-b, aligned along the exterior surface 406 of the mounting device 400. Each of the mounting portions, such as cavities 402 a-b, is capable of receiving a portion of a panel, such as a wall panel 110 or a roof panel 114 shown in FIG. 1. In the embodiment shown, each mounting portion or cavity 402 a-b is rectangular-shaped and substantially extends along the length of the exterior side of the mounting device 400. The mounting device 400 in FIG. 4 includes, for example, two mounting portions or cavities 402 a-b, such as one cavity 402 a on a lateral face 408, and a second cavity 402 b on an opposing lateral face 410 of the mounting device 400.
Each cavity 402 a-b of the mounting device 400 shown in FIG. 4 can include one or more mounting elements, such as notches 412. The mounting elements or notches are capable of resisting movement of a wall panel or roof panel with respect to the mounting portion or cavity 402 a-b, when a wall panel or roof panel, such as 110 and 114, respectively, shown in FIG. 1, is mounted with respect to the mounting portion or cavity 402 a-b. The mounting elements shown in FIG. 4 can be, for example, a series of relatively sharp notches 412 located along a predefined length of each interior wall of each cavity 402 a-b adjacent to a central body portion 404 of the mounting device 400. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the notches 412 can be a series of three triangular-shaped teeth 414 on each interior wall of each cavity 402 a-b. The depth of each respective tooth 414 can be approximately 0.015 inches from the interior wall of the cavity 402 a-b.
Other quantities and dimensions of teeth can be utilized for the notches or other mounting elements in accordance with other embodiments of the invention. Similarly, other embodiments of a mounting device 400 can have fewer or greater numbers of mounting portions, cavities, mounting elements, or notches, and may have different dimensions, configurations and/or shapes of mounting portions, cavities, mounting elements, or notches.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the mounting device 400 can be a separate piece or component which can be mounted to a corresponding wall strut or roof strut, similar to wall strut 108 and roof strut 112, respectively, shown in FIG. 1. For example, a mounting device such as 400 can be mounted to an external surface of a wall strut using a flush head, self tapping screw. In another embodiment, a mounting device such as 400 can be mounted to a corresponding wall strut or roof strut, such as wall strut 108 and roof strut 112, by way of a quick connect/disconnect mechanism or device. Other devices or techniques can be used to mount a mounting device such as 400 to a wall strut or roof strut. Alternatively, a mounting device 400 or an embodiment of a mounting device 400 can be integrated into or otherwise manufactured as an integral part of a wall strut or roof strut, such as wall strut 108 and roof strut 112 shown in FIG. 1, or may be integrated into or otherwise manufactured as an integral part of another portion of a modular housing structure.
FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a wall panel 500 for the modular housing structure shown in FIG. 1. The wall panel 500, shown in vertically oriented position and similar to the wall panel shown as 110 in FIG. 1, is capable of being placed into compression between at least two wall struts. That is, the wall panel 500 can be positioned between at least two wall struts, such as 108 in FIG. 1, such that a compression force is generated on the wall panel 500. The wall panel 500 shown in FIG. 5, for example, can be a rectangular-shaped piece of relatively strong and lightweight material. In one embodiment, a wall panel 500 can have an approximate thickness of approximately 0.25 inches. The particular dimensions of the wall panel 500 can depend on the loading requirements of a modular housing structure, or the dimensions of a modular housing structure. A wall panel 500 can be manufactured from, for example but not limited to, high density polyethylene (HDPE), high molecular weight (HMW) polyethylene, ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW), nylon, plastic, fiberglass, or another relatively strong and lightweight material. The wall panel 500 shown in FIG. 5 can be a HDPE 250 panel or a 0.25 inch thick high density polyethylene panel.
The wall panel 500 shown in FIG. 5 can include one or more edges, shown in FIG. 5 as 502, aligned along the lateral sides 504 of the wall panel 500. Each of the edges, such as 502, is capable of mounting within a portion of a wall strut, such as a wall strut 108 shown in FIG. 1, or within a mounting device such as 400 shown in FIG. 4. Other embodiments of a wall panel 500 may have a different configuration and/or shape.
FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a roof panel 600 for the modular housing structure shown in FIG. 1. The roof panel 600, shown in horizontally oriented position and similar to the roof panel shown as 114 in FIG. 1, is capable of being placed into compression between at least two roof struts. That is, the roof panel 600 can be positioned between at least two wall struts, such as 108 in FIG. 1, such that a compression force is generated on the roof panel 600. The roof panel 600 shown in FIG. 6, for example, can be a rectangular-shaped piece of relatively strong and lightweight material. In one embodiment, a wall panel 600 can have an approximate thickness of approximately 0.25 inches. The particular dimensions of the roof panel 600 can depend on the loading requirements of a modular housing structure, or the dimensions of a modular housing structure. A roof panel 600 can be manufactured from, for example but not limited to, high density polyethylene (HDPE), high molecular weight (HMW) polyethylene, ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW), nylon, plastic, fiberglass, or another relatively strong and lightweight material. The roof panel 600 shown in FIG. 6 can be a HDPE 250 panel or a 0.25 inch thick high density polyethylene panel.
The wall panel 600 shown in FIG. 6 can include one or more edges, shown in FIG. 6 as 602, aligned along the lateral sides 604 of the wall panel 600. Each of the edges, such as 602, is capable of mounting within a portion of a roof strut, such as a wall strut 112 shown in FIG. 1, or within a mounting device such as 400 shown in FIG. 4. Other embodiments of a roof panel 600 may have a different configuration and/or shape.
FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of the modular housing structure 100 shown in FIG. 1. The side view shows the configuration of the wall modules 116, 118 shown in FIG. 1. In the view shown in FIG. 7, the rectangular-shaped wall module 700 is formed from a series of vertically arranged wall struts 702, 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, 714, 716 in spaced apart relation between an upper horizontal wall strut 718 and a lower horizontal wall strut 720. The wall struts 702, 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, 714, 716 can be, for example, similar to strut 200 in FIG. 2. The horizontal wall struts 718, 720 can be, for example, similar to strut 300 in FIG. 3.
A series of vertically arranged wall panels 722, 724, 726, 728, 730, 732, 734 are positioned between at least two adjacent vertically arranged wall struts, and placed into compression. The spacing between two adjacent vertically arranged wall struts can be configured to be slightly smaller or narrower than the width of an associated wall panel to be mounted between the two adjacent vertically arranged wall struts. In this manner, the wall panels 722, 724, 726, 728, 730, 732, 734 can be mounted between two respective adjacent vertically arranged wall struts and the wall panel will be placed into compression. The wall panels 722, 724, 726, 728, 730, 732, 734 can be, for example, similar to wall panel 500 in FIG. 5. That is, wall panel 722 can be positioned between wall struts 702 and 704; wall panel 724 can be positioned between wall struts 704 and 706; wall panel 726 can be positioned between wall struts 706 and 708; wall panel 728 can be positioned between wall struts 708 and 710; wall panel 728 can be positioned between wall struts 710 and 712; wall panel 730 can be positioned between wall struts 712 and 714; wall panel 732 can be positioned between wall struts 712 and 714; and wall panel 732 can be positioned between wall struts 714 and 716. The wall struts 702, 716 forming the vertical sides of the wall module 116 can be, for example, similar to strut 300 with a square-shaped cross-section described above in FIG. 3. The wall struts 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, 714 spaced between wall struts 702, 716 forming the vertical sides of the wall module 700 can be, for example, similar to strut 200 with a rectangular-shaped cross-section described above in FIG. 2.
Each of the wall struts 702, 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, 714, 716 can include a mounting device, similar to the mounting device 400 shown and described above in FIG. 4, adapted to receive a portion of a wall panel 722, 724, 726, 728, 730, 732, 734. The mounting device, such as 400, can include at least one wall mounting element, such as a series of notches 408 shown and described above in FIG. 4, adapted to resist movement of the wall panel with respect to the wall mounting device. An example detail view of a wall panel mounted to a mounting device is shown and described in greater detail below in FIG. 12.
In the embodiment shown, a rectangular-shaped door 736 and an associated door frame 738 can provide access through the wall module 700. In this example, the door 736 and door frame 738 can be mounted between two adjacent wall struts, such as 702 and 704. A relatively small wall panel 722 can be adapted to fit between wall struts 702 and 704, and above the door 736 and frame 738. A door frame roof 740, also shown in FIG. 8, can be adapted to overhang the door 736 and frame 738 to provide overhead protection for any person using the door 736.
To increase the compression on each of the mounted wall panels, a series of tensioning rods can mount between each adjacent pair of vertically oriented wall struts 702, 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, 714, 716. For example, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 14, tensioning rods 1000, 1002, 1400 can be positioned horizontally with respect to the wall modules 1004, 1006, 1404. As the tensioning rods 1000, 1002, 1400 are tightened, the tensioning rods 1000, 1002, 1400 cause the adjacent vertically oriented wall struts 1402 in the wall modules 1004, 1006, 1404 to be pulled towards each other, thus compressing the associated wall panel 1406 between the adjacent vertically oriented wall struts 1402. Likewise, as the tensioning rods 1000, 1002, 1400 are loosened, the tensioning rods 1000, 1002, 1400 cause the adjacent vertically oriented wall struts in the wall modules 1004, 1006, 1404 to relax and the wall struts 1402 may move away from each other, if the associated wall panel 1406 is already in compression, thus reducing the compression force on the associated wall panel 1406 between the adjacent vertically oriented wall struts 1402. An example detail view of a tensioning rod mounted to a wall strut is shown and described in greater detail in FIG. 12. An example view of an arrangement of wall struts, tensioning rods, and wall panels for a wall module in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 14.
The wall module 116 shown in FIG. 7 is approximately 28′-0″ wide and 9′-9⅞″ in height. Each of the wall struts 702, 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, 714, 716, 718, 720 can be respective struts, or each wall strut can be made from multiple strut-type components. Other embodiments of a wall module 700 for a modular housing structure, such as 100, can have fewer or greater numbers of wall struts and wall panels, and may have different configurations and/or shapes of depending on the loading requirements and/or dimensions of the modular housing structure. When needed, the width or height of a wall module 700 can be shortened or extended by decreasing or increasing the number of vertical wall struts, shortening or extending the corresponding horizontal wall struts, and removing or adding a wall panel accordingly.
FIG. 8 illustrates a front or end view of the modular housing structure 100 shown in FIG. 1; and FIG. 10 illustrates a front or end cross-sectional view of the modular housing structure. The side view in FIG. 8 shows the configuration of the wall modules shown as 120, 122 at the ends of the modular housing structure 100 in FIG. 1. In the view shown in FIG. 8, a wall module 800 is formed from a series of vertically arranged intermediate wall struts 802 and 804 are in a spaced apart relation between respective angled vertical wall struts 806 and 808, which are adjacent to respective adjacent wall modules, such as 116 and 118 in FIG. 1. The intermediate wall struts 802 and 804 extend between respective lower wall struts 810, 812, and an upper wall strut 814 adjacent to the lower portion of the roof module, such as 122 in FIG. 1. The spacing between two adjacent vertically arranged wall struts, such as 802 and 806 can be configured to be slightly smaller or narrower than the width of an associated wall panel to be mounted between the two adjacent vertically arranged wall struts. In this manner, the wall panels 816, 818, 820 can be mounted between two respective adjacent vertically arranged wall struts and each wall panel will be placed into compression. The intermediate wall struts 802, 804 can be, for example, similar to strut 200 shown in FIG. 2; and the lower wall struts 810, 812 can be, for example, similar to strut 300 in FIG. 3.
A series of vertically arranged wall panels 816, 818, 820 are positioned between at least two adjacent vertically arranged wall struts, and placed into compression. The wall panels 816, 818, 820 can be, for example, similar to wall panel 500 in FIG. 5, and further shaped to fit the space between the respective wall struts. That is, wall panel 816 can be positioned between wall struts 802 and 806; wall panel 818 can be positioned between wall struts 802 and 804; and wall panel 820 can be positioned between wall struts 804 and 808.
Each of the wall struts 802, 804, 806, 808 can include a mounting device, similar to the mounting device 400 shown and described above in FIG. 4, adapted to receive a portion of a wall panel 816, 818, 820. The mounting device, such as 400, can include at least one wall mounting element, such as a series of notches 408 shown and described above in FIG. 4, adapted to resist movement of the wall panel with respect to the wall mounting device. An example detail view of a wall panel mounted to a mounting device is shown and described in greater detail below in FIG. 10.
In the embodiment shown, a rectangular-shaped door 822 and an associated door frame 824 can provide access through the wall module 800. In this example, the door 822 and door frame 824 can be centered and mounted between two adjacent wall struts, such as 802 and 804. A relatively small wall panel 818 can be adapted to fit between wall struts 802 and 804, and above the door 822 and frame 824. A suitable door can be a commercial 26 gauge corrugated door curtain, coated with a siliconized polyester paint or similar coating, sold and distributed as Model 1950 by Janus International Corporation of Temple, Ga.
To increase the compression on each of the mounted wall panels, a series of tensioning rods, similar to those described in FIGS. 7 and 14, can mount between each adjacent pair of vertically oriented wall struts 802, 804, 806, 808. For example, tensioning rods 1400 can be positioned horizontally with respect to each pair of adjacent wall struts 1402. As the tensioning rods 1400 are tightened, the tensioning rods 1400 cause the adjacent vertically oriented wall struts 1402 in the wall module 800, 1404 to be pulled towards each other, thus compressing the associated wall panel 1406 between the adjacent wall struts 1402. Likewise, as the tensioning rods 1400 are loosened, the tensioning rods 1400 cause the adjacent vertically oriented wall struts 1402 in the wall module 800, 1404 to relax and the wall struts may move away from each other, if the associated wall panel 1406 is already in compression, thus reducing the compression force on the associated wall panel 1406 between the adjacent vertically oriented wall struts 1402. An example detail view of a tensioning rod mounted to a wall strut is shown and described in greater detail in FIG. 12. An example view of an arrangement of wall struts, tensioning rods, and wall panels for a wall module in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 14.
The wall module 800 shown in FIG. 8 is approximately 18′-0″ wide at the lower side, 14′-6 7/16″ wide at the upper side, and 10′-1″ in height. The upper edge of the wall module 800 adjacent to the roof module, such as 122, can have a slight arch with an approximate radius of 24′-8″ and vertical span of approximately 1′-1⅛″ from the upper end of the adjacent wall modules 118, 120. The outer wall struts 806, 808 adjacent to the adjacent wall modules 118, 120 are angled such that the horizontal span of the outer wall struts 806, 808 from vertical is approximately 1′-8 13/16″ wide. The door frame 824 has an approximate height of 9′-0″ and width of 10′-0″. Other embodiments of a wall module 800 for a modular housing structure, such as 100, can have fewer or greater numbers of wall struts and wall panels, and may have different configurations and/or shapes of depending on the loading requirements and/or dimensions of the modular housing structure.
FIG. 9 illustrates an upper view of the modular housing structure shown in FIG. 1; and FIG. 11 illustrates an upper plan view of the modular housing structure shown in FIG. 1. The upper view shown in FIG. 9 shows the configuration of the roof module 124 shown in FIG. 1. In the view shown in FIG. 9, a roof module 900 is formed from a series of horizontally arranged intermediate roof struts 902, 904, 906, 908, 910, 912, 914, 916 in a spaced apart relation between perpendicularly oriented roof struts 918 and 920, which are adjacent to the upper horizontal wall struts of the respective adjacent wall modules, such as 120 and 122 in FIG. 1. The spacing between two adjacent horizontally arranged roof struts can be configured to be slightly smaller or narrower than the width of an associated roof panel to be mounted between the two adjacent horizontally arranged roof struts. In this manner, the roof panels 922, 924, 926, 928, 930, 932, 934 can be mounted between two respective adjacent horizontally arranged roof struts and the roof panel will be placed into compression. The roof struts 904, 906, 908, 910, 912, 914 can be, for example, similar to strut 200 shown in FIG. 2; and the roof struts 902, 916, 918, 920 oriented along the perimeter of the roof can be, for example, similar to strut 300 in FIG. 3.
A series of roof panels 922, 924, 926, 928, 930, 932, 934 are positioned between at least two adjacent horizontally arranged roof struts, and placed into compression. The roof panels 922, 924, 926, 928, 930, 932, 934 can be, for example, similar to roof panel 600 in FIG. 6. That is, roof panel 922 can be positioned between roof struts 902 and 904; roof panel 924 can be positioned between roof struts 904 and 906; roof panel 926 can be positioned between roof struts 906 and 908; roof panel 928 can be positioned between roof struts 908 and 910; roof panel 930 can be positioned between roof struts 910 and 912; roof panel 932 can be positioned between roof struts 912 and 914; and roof panel 934 can be positioned between roof struts 914 and 916.
Each of the roof struts 902, 904, 906, 908, 910, 912, 914, 916 can include a mounting device, similar to the mounting device 400 shown and described above in FIG. 4, adapted to receive a portion of a roof panel 922, 924, 926, 928, 930, 932, 934. The mounting device, such as 400, can include at least one roof mounting element, such as a series of notches 408 shown and described above in FIG. 4, adapted to resist movement of the roof panel with respect to the roof mounting device. An example detail view of a wall panel mounted to a mounting device, which is similar to the configuration of a roof panel mounted to a mounting device, is shown and described in greater detail below in FIG. 12.
To increase the compression on each of the mounted roof panels, a series of tensioning rods can mount between each adjacent pair of horizontally aligned roof struts 902, 904, 906, 908, 910, 912, 914, 916. For example, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 15, tensioning rods 1006, 1500 can be positioned with respect to the horizontally aligned roof struts 1008, 1502 of the roof module 1010, 1504. As the tensioning rods 1006, 1500 are tightened, the tensioning rods 1006, 1500 cause the adjacent horizontally aligned roof struts 1008, 1502 of the roof module 1010, 1504 to be pulled towards each other, thus compressing the associated roof panel 1506 between the adjacent roof struts 1008, 1502. Likewise, as the tensioning rods 1006, 1500 are loosened, the tensioning rods 1006, 1500 cause the adjacent horizontally aligned roof struts in the roof module 1010, 1504 to relax and the roof struts 1008, 1502 may move away from each other, if the associated roof panel 1506 is already in compression, thus reducing the compression force on the associated roof panel 1506 between the adjacent horizontally aligned roof struts 1008, 1502. An example detail view of a tensioning rod mounted to a wall strut, which is similar to the configuration for a tensioning rod mounted to a roof strut, is shown and described in greater detail in FIG. 12. An example view of an arrangement of roof struts, tensioning rods, and roof panels for a roof module in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 15.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, an additional roof strut 1100 can be mounted generally perpendicular to the horizontally aligned roof struts, and generally parallel with the tensioning rods associated with the roof module. The additional roof strut 1100, also shown as 1508 in FIG. 15, can be mounted through corresponding holes through each roof strut. Various equipment associated with a vehicle image acquisition system or other systems or devices, such as lighting, can be mounted to the additional roof strut 1100.
The roof module 900 shown in FIG. 9 is approximately 28′-9″ wide and 16′-0″ in width. Other embodiments of a roof module 900 for a modular housing structure, such as 100, can have fewer or greater numbers of roof struts and roof panels, and may have different configurations and/or shapes of depending on the loading requirements and/or dimensions of the modular housing structure. When needed, the width or length of a roof module 900 can be shortened or extended by decreasing or increasing the number of horizontal roof struts, shortening or extending the corresponding horizontal roof struts, and removing or adding a roof panel accordingly.
FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a wall shown as detail A in FIG. 10. In this view, a portion of a wall module 1200 is shown with a cross-section of a wall strut 1202. A mounting device 1204 is shown mounted to the exterior side 1206 of the wall strut 1202 by way of a mounting screw 1208, and a series of associated wall panels 1210, 1212 are mounted to the mounting device 1204. A coupling nut 1214 and associated washer 1216 are mounted to each lateral side of the wall strut 1202, and are capable of receiving a threaded tensioning rod 1218.
As explained above in FIGS. 7, 8, and 9, the tensioning rod 1218 can be used as needed to increase or decrease the compression on each of the wall panels 1210, 1212 mounted between each adjacent pair of vertically oriented wall struts 1202. In the example shown, the tensioning rod 1218 can be inserted through a corresponding hole through a portion of each wall strut 1202, and positioned substantially horizontally with respect to each pair of adjacent wall struts 1202. To increase the compression on the wall panels 1210, 1212, the tensioning rod 1218 can be rotated in one direction with respect to the coupling nut 1214 to shorten the distance between each pair of adjacent wall struts 1202. Alternatively, to decrease the compression on the wall panels 1210, 1212, the tensioning rod 1218 can be rotated in an opposing direction with respect to the coupling nut 1214 to shorten the distance between each pair of adjacent wall struts 1202.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the tensioning rod 1218 can be a ⅜″ steel threaded bar. The coupling nut 1214 and associated washer 1216 can also be ⅜″. An example view of an arrangement of wall struts, tensioning rods, and wall panels for a wall module in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 14.
A similar configuration to FIG. 12 can be utilized for roof struts, tensioning rods, and roof panels of a modular housing structure, such as 100 in FIG. 1. A tensioning rod can be inserted through a corresponding hole through a portion of each roof strut, and positioned substantially perpendicular with respect to each pair of adjacent roof struts. To increase the compression on the roof panels, the tensioning rod can be rotated in one direction with respect to a coupling nut to shorten the distance between each pair of adjacent roof struts. Alternatively, to decrease the compression on the roof panels, the tensioning rod can be rotated in an opposing direction with respect to the coupling nut to shorten the distance between each pair of adjacent roof struts.
FIG. 13 illustrates a view of a ground anchor for a wall shown as detail B in FIG. 10. In the example shown in FIG. 13, one or more ground anchor 1300 can be used to secure a modular housing structure, such as 100 in FIG. 1, to the ground, parking lot, or and surface the modular housing structure may be located on. In the example shown, the ground anchor 1300 can be a conventional ground anchor mounted to the lower portion of an outer wall strut 1302 of an associated wall module 1304. A total of, for example, four anchors are used at each corner or outer wall strut 1302 of the modular housing structure to secure the structure to the ground. One suitable ground anchor can be a 5/16″ diameter steel cable with a 1⅜″ diameter steel anchor driven approximately 5′ deep into the ground, and bolted onto a ⅜″ steel angle bracket.
FIG. 14 illustrates a view of an arrangement of wall struts, tensioning rods, and wall panels for a wall module in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As described above with respect to FIGS. 7 and 8, for each wall module 1404, tensioning rods 1400 can be used to increase or decrease the compression on each of the wall panels 1406 mounted between each adjacent pair of vertically oriented wall struts 1402. An example detail view of a tensioning rod mounted to a wall strut is shown and previously described in FIG. 12.
FIG. 15 illustrates a view of an arrangement of roof struts, tensioning rods, and roof panels for a roof module in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As described above with respect to FIG. 9, for each roof module 1504, tensioning rods 1500 can be used to increase or decrease the compression on each of the roof panels 1506 mounted between each adjacent pair of horizontally oriented roof struts 1502. An example detail view of a tensioning rod mounted to a wall strut, similar to the configuration of a tensioning rod mounted to a roof strut, is shown and previously described in FIG. 12.
In addition, an additional roof strut 1508 is shown aligned parallel with the tensioning rods 1500 and generally near the center of the roof module 1504. The additional roof strut 1508 can provide additional support for the roof panels 1506 as well as a mounting strut for equipment associated with a vehicle image acquisition system or other systems or devices, such as lighting.
FIG. 16 is a flowchart for an exemplary method in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The method 1600 shown can be utilized to erect a modular housing structure. The method 1600 can be used to erect the modular housing structure shown in FIG. 1. Other methods in accordance with embodiments of the invention can have fewer or additional steps than the method 1600 described below.
The method 1600 begins in block 1602. In block 1602, a plurality of wall modules is provided. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 16, each wall module includes a plurality of wall panel struts. Each wall panel strut includes a wall mounting portion adapted to receive a portion of a wall panel, wherein the wall mounting portion comprises at least one wall mounting element adapted to resist movement of the wall panel with respect to the wall mounting portion. The wall module also includes at least one wall panel, wherein each wall panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two wall panel struts.
Block 1602 is followed by block 1604, in which each wall module is mounted to an adjacent wall module, whereby a plurality of walls can be formed by the plurality of wall modules.
The method 1600 ends at block 1604.
FIG. 17 is a flowchart for another method in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The method 1700 shown can provide a method for erecting an apparatus with a plurality of walls and a roof. The method 1700 can be utilized in conjunction with the modular housing structure 100 shown in FIG. 1. Other methods in accordance with embodiments of the invention can have fewer or additional steps than the method 1700 described below.
The method 1700 begins in block 1702. In block 1702, a plurality of roof panel struts is provided, wherein each roof panel strut is adapted to receive a portion of a roof panel.
Block 1702 is followed by block 1704, in which at least one roof panel is provided, wherein each roof panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two roof panel struts.
Block 1704 is followed by block 1706, in which the at least one roof panel is mounted to the plurality of roof panel struts.
Block 1706 is followed by block 1708, in which a plurality of wall panel struts is provided, wherein each wall panel strut is adapted to receive a portion of a wall panel.
Block 1708 is followed by block 1710, in which at least one wall panel is provided, wherein each wall panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two wall panel struts.
Block 1710 is followed by block 1712, in which the at least one wall panel is mounted to the plurality of wall panel struts; wherein the roof panel struts can be mounted to an elevated portion of a plurality of wall panel modules whereby the roof panel struts and at least one roof panel are elevated relative to the plurality of wall panel struts and at least one wall panel.
The method 1700 ends at block 1712.
While the above description contains many specifics, these specifics should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but merely as exemplifications of the disclosed embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision many other possible variations that within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims appended hereto.

Claims

1. A modular housing structure, comprising:

a plurality of wall modules, wherein each wall module comprises:

a plurality of wall panel struts, wherein each wall panel strut comprises:

a wall mounting portion adapted to receive a portion of a wall panel, wherein the wall mounting portion comprises at least one wall mounting element adapted to resist movement of the wall panel with respect to the wall mounting portion;

at least one wall panel, wherein each wall panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two wall panel struts; and

wherein each wall module can mount to an adjacent wall module, whereby a plurality of walls can be formed by the plurality of wall modules.

2. The modular housing structure of claim 1, wherein the plurality of wall modules further comprises:

at least one wall support capable of mounting to some of the plurality of wall panel struts, and further capable of providing a compression force to at least some of the plurality of wall panel struts, wherein the compression force is further transferred to the at least one wall panel.

3. The modular housing structure of claim 1, further comprising:

at least one roof module, comprising:

a plurality of roof panel struts, wherein each roof panel strut is adapted to receive a portion of a roof panel;

at least one roof panel, wherein each roof panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two roof panel struts;

wherein each roof panel strut comprises a roof mounting portion adapted to receive a portion of a roof panel, wherein the roof mounting portion comprises at least one roof mounting element adapted to resist movement of the roof panel with respect to the roof mounting portion;

wherein the at least one roof module can be mounted to an elevated portion of a plurality of wall modules whereby the at least one roof module is elevated relative to the plurality of wall modules and a roof can be formed with respect to the plurality of walls.

4. The modular housing structure of claim 3, wherein the at least one roof module further comprises:

at least one roof support capable of mounting to some of the plurality of roof panel struts, and further capable of providing a compression force to at least some of the plurality of roof panel struts, wherein the compression force is further transferred to the at least one roof panel.

5. The modular housing structure of claim 1, wherein the wall mounting portion comprises a H-shaped clip capable of receiving a portion of a first wall panel, and a portion of a second wall panel.

6. The modular housing structure of claim 1, wherein the wall mounting element comprises at least one of the following: a tooth, a notch, a series of teeth, a series of notches, a frictional coating, or an uneven surface.

7. The modular housing structure of claim 5, wherein the H-shaped clip is integrated with at least one wall panel strut.

8. The modular housing structure of claim 5, wherein the H-shaped clip mounts to a portion of at least one wall panel strut.

9. The modular housing structure of claim 3, wherein the roof mounting portion comprises a respective H-shaped clip capable of receiving a portion of a first roof panel, and a portion of a second roof panel.

10. The modular housing structure of claim 9, wherein the H-shaped clip is integrated with at least one roof panel strut.

11. The modular housing structure of claim 9, wherein the H-shaped clip mounts to a portion of at least one roof panel strut.

12. The modular housing structure of claim 3, wherein the wall panel struts and roof panel struts comprise at least one of the following: aluminum, or steel.

13. The modular housing structure of claim 3, wherein the wall panel and roof panel each comprise at least one of the following: high density polyethylene (HDPE), high molecular weight (HMW) polyethylene, ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW), nylon, plastic, or fiberglass.

14. The modular housing structure of claim 1, wherein at least one wall module can be secured to the ground by an anchor.

15. The modular housing structure of claim 1, wherein at least some of the wall panel struts are capable of supporting image acquisition equipment.

16. An apparatus with a plurality of walls and a roof, comprising:

a plurality of wall panel struts, wherein each wall panel strut is adapted to receive a portion of a wall panel;

wherein the roof panel struts can be mounted to an elevated portion of a plurality of wall panel modules whereby the roof panel struts and at least one roof panel are elevated relative to the plurality of wall panel struts and at least one wall panel.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising:

18. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising

19. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein each roof panel strut comprises a H-shaped clip capable of receiving a portion of a first roof panel, and a portion of a second roof panel.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the H-shaped clip comprises a friction element comprising at least one of the following: a tooth, a notch, a series of teeth, a series of notches, a frictional coating, or an uneven surface.

21. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the H-shaped clip is integrated with at least one roof panel strut.

22. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the H-shaped clip mounts to a portion of at least one roof panel strut.

23. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein each wall panel strut comprises a H-shaped clip capable of receiving a portion of a first wall panel, and a portion of a second wall panel.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the H-shaped clip is integrated with at least one wall panel strut.

25. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the H-shaped clip mounts to a portion of at least one wall panel strut.

26. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the wall panel struts and roof panel struts comprise at least one of the following: aluminum, or steel.

27. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the wall panel and roof panel each comprise at least one of the following: high density polyethylene (HDPE), high molecular weight (HMW) polyethylene, ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW), nylon, plastic, or fiberglass.

28. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein at least one wall strut can be secured to the ground by an anchor.

29. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein at least some of the wall panel struts are capable of supporting image acquisition equipment.

30. A structure capable of housing a vehicle image acquisition system, comprising:

a plurality of roof panel struts, wherein each roof panel strut comprises a roof mounting portion comprising a H-shaped clip adapted to receive a portion of a roof panel;

at least one roof panel, wherein each roof panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two roof panel struts, wherein the roof panel is adjacent to a respective roof mounting portion comprising a respective H-shaped clip associated with the at least two roof panel struts;

a plurality of wall panel struts, wherein each wall panel strut comprises a wall mounting portion comprising a H-shaped clip adapted to receive a portion of a wall panel;

at least one wall panel, wherein each wall panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two wall panel struts, wherein the wall panel is adjacent to a respective wall mounting portion comprising a H-shaped clip associated with the two wall panel struts; and

31. A method for erecting a modular housing structure, comprising:

providing a plurality of wall modules, wherein each wall module comprises:

a plurality of wall panel struts, wherein each wall panel strut comprises:

mounting each wall module to an adjacent wall module, whereby a plurality of walls can be formed by the plurality of wall modules.

32. A method for erecting an apparatus with a plurality of walls and a roof, comprising:

providing a plurality of roof panel struts, wherein each roof panel strut is adapted to receive a portion of a roof panel;

providing at least one roof panel, wherein each roof panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two roof panel struts;

mounting the at least one roof panel to the plurality of roof panel struts;

providing a plurality of wall panel struts, wherein each wall panel strut is adapted to receive a portion of a wall panel;

providing at least one wall panel, wherein each wall panel is adapted to be mounted in compression between at least two wall panel struts;

mounting the at least one wall panel to the plurality of wall panel struts; wherein the roof panel struts can be mounted to an elevated portion of a plurality of wall panel modules whereby the roof panel struts and at least one roof panel are elevated relative to the plurality of wall panel struts and at least one wall panel.