WO2017027658A1

WO2017027658A1 - Modular structural space frame system

Info

Publication number: WO2017027658A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/046462
Authority: WO
Inventors: William A. Mcdonough; Rood L. MACRAE
Original assignee: Mcdonough William A; Macrae Rood L
Priority date: 2015-08-12
Filing date: 2016-08-11
Publication date: 2017-02-16

Abstract

The invention is generally directed to a modular system with structural elements and connectors which fit together in a wide configuration of shapes and dimensions to provide sturdy, structural architectural elements, including floor raising pylons, floors, walls, roofs and other components, and can be assembled without the need for architectural plans, engineering, skilled labor, complex equipment or even tools. Various different types of structures from floors, walls, roofs, trellises or shade walls can be created using the modular system.

Description

MODULAR STRUCTURAL SPACE FRAME SYSTEM This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/204,152, filed on August 12, 2015.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention is directed to a modular structural space frame system which is designed to allow for the assembly of a wide variety of structurally sound structures which can be used to provide an elevated support, walls, roofs, columns, floors and can be assembled quickly and efficiently on site with limited need for engineering expertise, construction skills or tools to enable elegant, simple construction and post disaster recovery.

The developing world and even more advanced locations have been subjected to natural disasters of a growing scope which as a result of floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes and the like have created environments where survivors need rapid access to shelter. In many cases the local residents are suffering from many deficiencies, including access to fresh water, food and shelter. However, diseases like cholera can result and spread quickly if people are not elevated off wet ground or exposed to falling rain almost immediately.

Accordingly, there is a need for a structural space frame system which is

sufficiently flexible to be shipped in a compact form into an area and allow local residents, with limited guidance from outside and limited tools, to assemble structural elements which can be formed into support floors which will elevate a structure off the ground, provide ground clearance, form a roof structure, create walls or any structural element necessary to either construct a shelter or dwelling either by itself or in combination with local elements.

Particularly where communities or cities are devastated by natural disasters or even manmade disasters related to war, environmental events and unexpected catastrophic events, there is a need for systems which can be quickly brought into the area and built into required structures quickly, efficiently and with limited tools or instruction. There is a need for the parts to be as simple and light as possible, highly sturdy and compact and light for ease of delivery into areas without much or any infrastructure for complex deliveries. And, it is particularly useful if the modular parts nest with similar modular parts to allow the unassembled pieces to be easily transported without the need for motorized transport to the final assembly location.

Accordingly, there is a need for a system, which provides a highly simplified number of elements that can be easily assembled into permanent structures of varying dimensions and shapes which can quickly create required building components that will integrate with available local building elements to provide shelter and housing and other structural elements necessary in the face of disaster. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention is generally directed to a modular system with structural elements and connectors which fit together in a wide con iguration of shapes and dimensions to provide sturdy, structural architectural elements, including floor raising pylons, floors, walls, roofs, columns and other components, and can be assembled without the need for architectural plans, engineering, skilled labor, complex equipment or tools.

The invention is also generally directed to a two component modular system formed of simple connective chords and webs held together by simple connectors which connect each chord and web in a secure, lightweight, structurally rigid form without the need for significant outside assistance, skilled labor or tools.

Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to provide an improved modular structural space frame system which provides for easy construction of structurally sound construction elements from a modular parts list of a very limited number of parts.

Another object of the invention is to provide an improved modular structural space frame system in which one construction element, having two forms can be joined together with a common connector element into a limitless number of shapes and dimensions to meet construction demands for shelter or other constructions. Still another object of the invention is to provide an improved modular structural space frame system in which the component parts of the system can be shipped into an area which has been devastated and any necessary components to jump start the project are ready for assembly into the required shape and size for the construction elements.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide an improved modular system for construction without an infrastructure of equipment and skilled labor.

A further object of the invention is to provide a structural system which can both provide strong, rigid frames for various construction needs which provide openings within the structure to run plumbing, electric and other lines within the structure.

Yet a further object of the invention is to provide an improved modular structural space frame system which can be shipped with the pieces nested together to provide a highly compact shipping or transporting size.

Still another object of the invention is to provide an improved modular structural space frame system which can be shipped compactly with the different pieces each nested together so that they can be shipped in a very small volume, and with the light weight of each piece, with relatively light weight.

Another object of the invention is to provide an improved modular structural space frame system which can use modular members with either flat, angled, hemi- hexagonal, or round profiles which provide structural rigidity and nest so that they can be shipped in a highly compact form.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide an improved modular structural space frame system which includes additional modular pieces to provide squared bottom or top pieces that create a rectangular solid bottom or top.

Still yet a further object of the invention is to provide an improved modular structural space frame system which allows for building columns with squared bottoms and tops by use of additional modular pieces.

Still a further object of the invention is to provide an improved modular structural space frame system which can be formed into and used as an internet caf6 for children; building foundations and floor systems designed for water contact and wet ground contact; shade structures, such as free standing venues for selling water and soft drinks; canopies attached to existing buildings for

advertising, shade and rain protection; display facilities at trade shows; temporary facilities at concerts for rain and sun protection and support of lighting; medical facilities and temporary hospital facilities; gas station canopies; flea market shelters; event shelters; parking lot shade structures; greenhouses; trellises;

temporary community pavilions; treehouses; solar collector support structures; docks and piers; and nanoscale and atomic scale versions of the structure similar to graphene. Still other objects and advantages of the invention will, in part, be obvious and will, in part, be apparent from the specification.

The invention accordingly comprises the features of construction, combinations of elements and arrangements of part and processes which will be exemplified in the constructions and processes as hereinafter set forth, and the scope of the invention will be indicated in the claims,

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will now be described in more complete detail with frequent reference being made to the figures identified below.

Fig. 1 is an illustration of a structure built in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig 2 is a top plan view of a chord constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 3 is a side elevational view of a chord constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig 4 is a top plan view of a web constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 5 is a side elevational view of a web constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention prior to bending the ends; Fig. 6 is a is a side elevational view of a web constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention after bending the ends;

Fig. 7 is a top elevational view of a joint in a structured built using the webs and chords of Figs. 3 and 6 constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 8 is a perspective view of an assembled structure formed from the webs and chords of Figs. 3 and 6;

Fig. 9 is a double length chord constructed in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 10 is an enlarged perspective view of a joint from Fig. 8 constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 11 is a front elevational view of a nut and bolt used in connection with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 12A is a perspective view of a floor constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 12B is another perspective view of the floor constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention shown in Fig. 12A;

Fig. 13 A is a perspective view of a roof constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention; Fig. 13B is another perspective view of a roof constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention shown in Fig. 13 A;

Fig. 14A is a series of views of a trellis constructed in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 14B is a graphic view of the trellis of Fig. 14A;

Fig. 15 is a perspective view of the modular elements used in the

construction in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 16 is a perspective view of a small construction formed from the modular elements of Fig. 15;

Fig. 17 is a perspective view of a larger construction formed from the modular elements of Fig. 15;

Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a floor structure constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a roof structure formed from the modular components in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 20 is a perspective view of a structure formed from columns constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention; Fig. 21 is a perspective view of a structure formed from side walls constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 22 is a perspective view of a stairway formed from the modular elements constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 23 is a perspective view of a bridge formed from the modular elements constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 24 is a perspective view of a structure formed with a living roof constructed in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 25 is a perspective view of the ability to store nested modular elements in boxes for easy transportation;

Fig. 26 is a front elevational view of a box of modular components being transported by a person on a bicycle;

Fig. 27 is a perspective view of a floor constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention and the box in which the modular components can be transported;

Fig. 28 is a perspective view of a Column A modular element constructed in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 29 is a side elevational view of the components used in constructing a column in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention; Fig. 30 is a perspective view of a structure with columns and a roof constructed utilizing the modular elements shown in Fig. 29;

Fig. 31 is a cross sectional view of the central portion of a modular element constructed in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 32 is a perspective view of a series of stacked chords constructed in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the invention; and

Fig. 33 is a perspective view of a series of nested webs constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The invention is generally directed to a system for forming space frames which are useful for either building full structures or portions of the structures including walls, floors, roofs and other construction elements as necessary. The invention is also directed to a system for forming space frames out of modular elements which can nest with similar modular elements for easy transport to a building site, particularly one off the infrastructure grid, so that in crises the modular elements can be carried by human beings to the job site from the end of passable vehicular roads.

Reference is made to the various Figures for description and depiction of the system and its elements. With reference to Fig. 1, we see a picture of a structure in which the walls and ceiling are formed from the modular elements constructed in accordance with the invention. As can be seen in the open view of the elements, a matrix like grid is formed with flat exterior elements and three dimensionally oriented connection members forming the other components of the finished construction. The grid of element forms a strong and structurally rigid structure.

Reference is next made to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 wherein a chord element is shown. The chord element 100 is a generally flat member with two holes near the end points of the chord member. Fig. 4 shows a similar construction element identified as a web member 101 which has a similar spacing horizontally between the two holes in the flange portions which are at an angle to the central web portion. The chord member 100 and the web member 101 can be utilized to complete the structure shown in Fig. 1 or to form a floor, a wall, a section of a wall, a bridge, or even a roof. The assembled construction would create the frame of the structure part. The chords 100 and webs 101 are assembled with a bolt 200 and nut 201 as shown in Fig. 11. As seen in Figs. 7, 8 and 10 the chords and webs are attached together at joints with a single bolt going through the openings of the chords and webs in a fashion which holds up to 8 chords and webs together at a single joint. As shown in Figs. 8 and 10, a three dimensional structural element can be formed out of a combination of chords and webs. As is particularly shown in Fig. 8, the upper flat surface of the structure is formed of chord elements.

Where a run of longer than one element is utilized, such as in the top surface of the structure in Fig. 8, rather than using a single length chord element, a double length chord element as shown in Fig. 9 may be utilized. This reduces the amount of material used as the overlap of the flange portions where the holes are present in the single length pieces is avoided. However, as shown in Fig. 8, on the bottom surface of the structure, only a single length square is formed and the single sized chords must be used.

Continuing to focus on Fig. 8, the non-surface connectors used in the structure are all of the web variety 101 shown in Fig. 6. The web members 101 have a central flat section 103 and two flange sections 104 and 105 at either end of the central portion 103. The flange portions are oriented in a fashion where the flange portions are bent relative to the central portion. As seen in Fig. 8, the effect of this approach is to allow parallel layers of rigid two dimensional structures to be formed spaced uniformly apart due to the angles of the flanges 104, 105 at the ends of web members 103. Referring back to the Fig. 1 depiction of a room formed of the structural elements, a uniform grid is provided with a regularity of the grid defined by the lengths of the web and chord members. Generally, the members are designed to provide a regular, orthogonal grid of elements which can be shaped at their perimeters with flat surfaces through the selective use of chords and web members. Because of the use of the flange the end surface of a construction formed of the elements will have a beveled edge as can be seen in Fig. 6. In a current preferred embodiment of the invention the angle of the bevel will be 45°. This allows for a variety of constructions where adjoining sections with 45° bevels create a 90° angle so that, as shown in Fig. 1, the adjacent walls and ceiling are at 90° angles to each other.

Assembly of the modular webs and chords can be easily accomplished with limited training and skills. In addition, it can also be done with limited or no tools as required under the circumstances. Because an important need and use for the modular system is to transport the simple component parts for various

constructions into remote areas with no easy transport by truck or plane, or ravaged areas where disasters have recently occurred, work carriers, tools and trained personnel are often not available for use. The chord and web members are designed so that they nest together for shipment so that a very large number of elements can be sent to a destination for assembly in a highly efficient manner. In fact, a human can easily carry enough materials on his or her back into an area for a small project like a hut or roof or floor. A series of people, either at one time or over a period of time can bring in enough materials to build a variety of different structures without the need any transportation equipment. For example, a group of individuals, either together, or over a relatively short period of time can bring in on their backs enough materials to build a bridge over a Nepalese gorge, a mountain cabin or a forest ranger outpost. The small group or even an individual can then build the required structure by themselves with either no tools or a handful of wrenches.

In addition, the system only requires the two different types of construction elements, the chords 100 and the webs 101, together with nuts 201 and bolts 202 (or other suitable connectors such as cotter pins, bolts with wing nuts, snap together connectors or other connectors including sticks or other simple connectors which provide an essential shaft and an ability to remain within the holes in the chords and webs).

The current preferred embodiment of the invention includes standardized sized elements to allow easily assembled constructions for various purposes.

Currently, the chords 100 can be made in either two foot or one meter length forms. This will, of course, affect the grid size of the finished construction.

Generally, both varieties are set up to receive a 5/8^Λ inch bolt which, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, is currently made of stainless steel, with a quality of at least 8/18 stainless steel or better. Other types of materials or connectors can be used, such as cotter pins, wing nuts, slide-on connectors and the like which can be assembled with limited tools or even no tools at all. Currently, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the chord 100 and web members 101, are formed from aluminum. However, they may also be formed of steel, other metal compounds or even plastics. Generally, where plastic members are utilized, they must be either formed from materials having

appropriate strength characteristics as required to maintain the rigidity and strength of the resultant structures or include fibers or other additives which increase the relevant physical characteristics of the resultant elements.

In addition, where heightened strength of the construction is necessary the webs and chords can be doubled up or made thicker. Where a doubling up is utilized to strengthen the construction it is done preferably with the chords, rather than the webs because the holes will continue to align. If the webs are doubled up, without adjustment, they will tend to move the holes and not align as well. With the chords, there is no movement of the holes and they can be doubled, tripled or added without affecting the alignment of the holes. However, as the number of elements is increased the length of the bolts would need to be adjusted.

Alternatively, the basic webs and chords can be thickened. This is particularly appropriate with the webs which don't generally stack well. So a double thick or triple thick web can be made where special weight bearing requirements exist(either to span a particularly wide gap or to support a great deal of weight on top of the structure). In a current preferred embodiment of the invention the angles between the flange elements and the adjacent central web element 103 is between 135° and 150°, more preferably between 140° and 145° and, most preferably between 141° and 142°. Based upon current geometries and the length of the central web section 103 and flanges 104, 105 and the version shown in Fig. 29 is between 141.2° and 141.5°. This minor variation accommodates the need for the openings in the webs and chords 101, 102 to align and lay flat. As the length of the central portion 103 and flanges 104, 105 change so the angle would change, although only slightly.

A wide variety of different types of structures can be assembled so mat the modular system can be utilized for a wide variety of purposes without any specialization of the building materials. Generally, any required structure can be formed from a combination of chords 100, webs 101 and bolts 200. Several examples of constructions which are particularly suited to be built with the modular system include floors shown in Figs.l2A and 12 B, roofs shown in Fig. 13A and 13B, and pylons or stilts which are built to support a building or structure above the ground. There is a desperate need for pylons or stilts in areas which have been affected by hurricanes, floods and other disasters because of the concern that the standing water will breed cholera and other diseases while the pylons and other support mechanisms built f om the modular elements of the existing invention provide a stable support for construction elevated off the wet ground. The construction can be from native materials like wood, mud or stone. As seen in Figs. 12A and 12B, a skin has been added to the modular space frame for the floor to provide a flat floor surface. The skin may be any available material or materials which will provide a solid and relatively smooth floor. Of course, in some situations any rigid material may be used to provide a clean support.

As seen in Figs 13A and 13B, two structural space members are attached to form a gabled roof structure, shown from two different perspectives in the two figures. Again, a skin is shown on the top of the roof structure so that it is waterproof and weatherproof and suitable for adding insulation below the outer surface of the roof.

Preferably the skins for a floor, roof or walls can be added to the structure to make it water and weather resistant. Insulation can be added within the empty spaces of the structure to provide further insulation than that provided by the open spaces within the structure. Similarly, wires, pipes and other utility feeds can be fed through the open spaces in the structure or through additional holes in the chords or webs which are created so that the wires and pipes can sit relatively hidden against the lengths of the webs and chords in the structure.

Reference is made to Figs. 14A and 14B wherein plan, section, axonometric and three dimensional perspective views for a wall mounted shade structure are shown. The structure may also be called a trellis. It is formed using the basic elements of the chords and webs and connectors of the system in accordance with the invention as a basic armature. To it are attached triangular panels to provide sun shading and tetrahedron shaped planter boxes to contain vegetation. The panels and planter boxes may be constructed of aluminum, steel, ceramics, plastics, or other materials. An irrigation system can be integrated into the space frame structure to allow for the automatic watering of the vegetation in the planters. The triangular panels and planter boxes can be affixed to the space frame structure by bolting, or other connection system. By adding this wall mounted shade structure to the exterior wall or walls of a building the amount of energy used to cool the building can be easily reduced while also enhancing the look of the building.

Reference is next made to Fig. IS wherein an alternate approach with a web member 1501 and chord member 1S02 and connector 1503 are shown. Web member 1501 includes central flat portion 1504 with secondary central portion 1505 perpendicular to the surface of central section 1504. Flanges 1511 and 1521 include openings 1510 and 1520, respectively. In chord member 1502 there is a central flat section 1506 with a second central section 1507 perpendicular to section 1506. Central sections 1505 and 1507 terminate prior to the end sections of web 1501 and chord 1502. In chord 1502 end sections 1540 and 1530 include openings 1541 and 1531, respectively, to allow connector 1503 to extend through the openings. In the current preferred embodiment, connector 1503 is a nut and bolt connector with bolt 1550 and nut 1551. Other alternate connectors can include different means, including bolts with wing nuts which would obviate the need for tools, cotter pins or other standard connectors.

Reference is next made to Fig. 16 wherein a basic structural element is shown formed of the web and chord 1501 and 1502 shown in Fig. 15. This structure is formed entirely of web 1501 and chord 1502, together with connectors 1503 at the nexus points connecting the webs 1501 and chords 1502.

Reference is next made to Fig. 17 where a larger structure formed of webs 1501 and chords 1502 is shown. As can be seen, the entire structure is made up of the chord 1502, web 1501 and connectors 1503.

Reference is next made to Fig. 18 wherein a floor structure 1800 is depicted with a person 1810 standing on top of floor 1800. Floor 1800 is formed entirely of chords 1502 and webs 1501 secured together with connectors 1503 as shown in the earlier figures. In this case, a floor covering 1803 is applied on top of the structure 1800 to allow the individual 1810 to stand on a solid flat surface.

Reference is next made to Fig. 19 wherein a roof structure 1900 formed from webs 1501 and chords 1502 secured together with connectors 1503 is shown. Again, a covering surface 1903 is applied to the top of roof structure 1900 so as to provide a waterproof environment underneath roof 1900 for individual 1910. Reference is next made to Fig. 20 wherein a structure 2000 is depicted. Structure 2000 is formed of four columns 2001 at each of the four corners of the structure with a roof 2002. Each of columns 2001 are formed using the modular chord and web members 1501, 1502, held together by connectors 1503. However, as described further on in this application, there are special column elements shown in Figs. 28-30 which allow for the columns to have flat bottoms and tops and thus be easily used to support roof 2002 and keep individual 2010 dry and out of the elements.

Reference is next made to Fig. 21 wherein the structure formed of two side walls 2101 formed from the modular elements 1501, 1502, is depicted with a roof 2102. The structure 2100 is thus able to keep individual 2110 protected from the elements. Side walls 2101 are formed as can be seen from the same modular elements 1501, 1502 utilized in other constructions. In fact, side walls 2101 are essentially the same structure as the floor construction shown in Fig. 18 but placed vertically rather than horizontally.

Reference is next made to Fig. 22 wherein a stairway 2200 formed of the modular elements 1501, 1502 is depicted. The underlying structure of the stairway 2200 is formed entirely of modular elements 1501, 1502 with riser and tread covers 2202 and 2201. These allow individual 1510 to utilize the stairs without falling through the gaps between modular members 1501, 1502. Reference is next made to Fig. 23 wherein a bridge 2300 is shown spanning a dip in the land 2301. Again, the structure shown is formed entirely of modular elements 1501, 1502 covered with a covering layer 2304 sitting on top of the structure so that an individual 2310 can walk across the structure as a bridge between the ends of the dip 2301.

Reference is next made to Fig. 24 wherein a living roof formed of the modular elements 2400 is depicted. The roof 2400 sits atop a walled structure 2420 which may be of any construction or the modular construction shown in Fig. 21. The living roof structure 2400 includes the basic roof structure 2401 formed of modular members 1501, 1502 and including within the squares formed of the modular members 1501, 1502 plants 2412. Generally, as shown in the front left corner, a plant cover 2420 sits within the structure and provides protection from water or other elements coming through the roof and also acting as a support for the plants as a planter or pot for the living plants installed therein.

Reference is next made to Fig. 25 wherein the manner in which the modular elements 1501, 1502 are nested and packed into compact boxes for transportation. As seen in Fig. 25, two boxes 2501 are shown next to an individual 2510 with each of boxes 2501 including eighty chord members 1502 stacked together, as better seen in Figs. 32 and 33, Reference is next made to Fig. 26 wherein it is shown that, as a result of the ability to stack and nest the modular members 1501, 1502, an individual 2510 riding on a bicycle 2601 can transport a box 2501 containing modular members 1501 or 1502. In a current preferred embodiment, a box of eighty modular members 1501 or 1502 would weigh about 16 kilograms. This can be altered by using a lower weight modular member 1501, 1502 instead of the aluminum which is currently preferred. Other materials would include other alloys of metals and various plastics which have sufficient rigidity to support the structures to be constructed. In some cases, the modular members 1501, 1502 can be formed of ultra lightweight materials with stiffening agents included in the materials.

Reference is next made to Fig. 27 which shows a floor structure 1800 as shown in Fig. 18 which can be transported in a flat pack 2701 which includes sufficient modular members 1501 , 1502 and connectors 1503 to form the entire structure shown as floor 1500 to support individual 2710.

Reference is next made to Fig. 28 which shows a specialized member 2801 used to form columns. This element is identified as a Column A piece. Column A piece 2801 includes a central section 2807 surrounded by flanges 2802 and 2804 with openings 2803 and 2805 to allow connection to adjacent pieces.

Reference is next made to Fig. 29 which shows the various elements used in connection with forming a column with a flat bottom and top. This includes Chord A 2901 which is identical to modular member 1S02, and web 2903 which is identical to modular member 1501. The additional modular members used in connection with the column include a Chord B 2902 which is similar in

construction to chord member 1502 or 2901 but is shorter in length to allow for the squaring of the bottom and top of the column. Similarly, Column A member 2804, also shown in Fig. 28, has the flanges 2804 and 2802 on the same side of central section 2807. Finally, Column B member 2905 is a shorter central section 2915 with flanges 2916 and 2917, which also have holes in them, on opposite sides of central section 2915. The flange sections 2916 and 2917 are generally

perpendicular to the central section 2915.

Reference is next made to Fig. 30 wherein a structure formed from columns 2020 with a roof 3000 is shown formed of the modular members identified above. The roof portion 3000 is formed with the basic modular elements 1501, 1502 held together with connectors 1503. However, the columns 2920 are formed as shown with the basic elements 1501, 1503, as well as the additional Chord B 2902 and Columns A and B 2901, 2905. These serve to keep individual 3010 free from the elements underneath roof 3000.

Reference is next made to Fig. 31 which shows an alternate structure for modular elements 1501, 1502. Rather than having a flat construction of the central portion or a right angled construction, the central portion of these modular elements would have a half hexagonal construction as shown in Fig. 31 as element 3100. A central portion is formed of central section 3101 with angled sections 3102 and 3103, each of which is at a 120° angle to central section 3101. The ends of the web and chord members with the hexagonal center section would be flat, as with the other web and chords.

Reference is next made to Fig. 32 and 33 wherein the way in which modular elements 1501 and 1502 stack with similar elements is shown. This is a very space efficient arrangement.

The modular elements 1501, 1502 and connector 1503 thus can be utilized to build a wide variety of structures of varying shapes and sizes. With the addition of the additional column elements and additional chord member flat bottomed and topped column elements can also be formed. The modular elements can thus forma wide variety of structures for varying uses as demonstrated above. In addition, the structural elements shown can be scaled down to a toy or model size to allow children and adults to build structures as toys or models on a small scale. The small scale parts can be used to design structures at one's desk or on a table before a full scale design is implemented on the ground. This is accomplished by scaling down each of the elements and maintaining the geometrical structure of them, The number of applications of the building materials are relatively limitless and can be applied and utilized by those with relatively low construction skills and relatively no training. For example, the modular elements can be formed into: Internet caffc's for children; building foundations and floor systems designed for water contact and wet ground contact; shade structures, such as free standing venues for selling water and soft drinks; canopies attached to existing buildings for advertising, shade and rain protection; display facilities at trade shows; temporary facilities at concerts for rain and sun protection and support of lighting; medial facilities and temporary hospital facilities; gas station canopies; flea market shelters; event shelters; parking lot shade structures; parking lot or building shade structures which double as planters; modular furniture and planter sitting areas; greenhouses; trellises; temporary community pavilions; treehouses; docks and piers; and even nanoscale and atomic scale versions of the structure, similar to graphene.

The construction techniques required are relatively simple and

straightforward. One can start from the bottom by building a lower grid laying out the footprint of the structure to be built utilizing the flat chord member 100 connected together in a square or at least rectangular form on a surface. Then, a series of cross member webs 101 can be used to create a frame structure. As shown in Fig. 8, the base utilizes a single square base with a series of web members emanating from each of the corners of the base square. These base web members then are connected with the ends of eight of the members meeting at each joint which is not on the perimeter of the structure. The dotted rectangular portion which is blown up as Fig. 10 shows the joint at the top center of the structure shown in Fig. 8. It includes four of the webs coming from the four corners of the base of the structure in Fig. 8 where they meet and are joined to the four chords which form the center of the top surface of the structure. As seen best in Fig. 11 , the bolt 200 is dropped through the holes in each of the chords and webs and men secured in place with bolt 201 so that the joint has rigidity and strength such that the forces structurally create a stable, stiff and strong structure which can be used for a variety of purposes.

The assembly process can proceed relatively rapidly without the need for much supervision or training. Essentially, the pieces fit together in only one way to create the solid and rigid structure which can be quickly assembled into the required construction elements from use of only the two primary construction elements, i.e., the chords 100 and the webs 101.

Due to a need for other structures which have squared off bottoms or tops, such as columns or other elements which sit flat on the ground or under a roof, additional small numbers of modular elements can be used to provide the bottom or top of a space frame made from the basic modular parts which is square. Various other custom modular pieces can be added which allow a space frame to be assembled to form curved surfaces, such as a dome. Thus, with the basic webs and chords, additional elements can be incorporated which allow the modular pieces to form a space frame including curved elements.

In many parts of the world where disaster strikes either there is no

construction infrastructure or the infrastructure for construction has been destroyed by the disaster. The construction elements can be quickly flown or otherwise transported into the disaster area with limited additional equipment required.

Apart from moving the parts, which transport quickly and easily because they nest against each other, the total supply and equipment requirements for constructing strong, durable and rapidly assembleable shelters can be made available when needed and without the need for additional materials, heavy equipment, high tech or power tools requiring electricity or any other specialized materials or supplies. In the case of a hurricane or flood where existing shelters have been destroyed and native building materials are not suitable for immediate construction or

construction workers are not available because of the devastation or the nature of the environment, with the basic building materials, which are limited to the chords 100, webs 101 and bolts and nuts 200 and 201, immediate construction of required structures can be made. A single trainer can demonstrate the construction techniques to any adult or even child in an area so that they can begin assembling the structures with limited guidance and plans. And, individuals can carry over their shoulders or on their backs enough materials to build a small structure. A few individuals or a single individual making a few trips can carry in enough materials for many structures. For example, if the building materials are intended to form a support floor to raise a shelter off wet ground, simple plans showing a 10 x 10 square can be provided with an indication that the structure should be 10 chords by 10 chords on the base and extend upward for two levels above the base. Similarly, different groups can assemble walls or roof sections which can then be secured to each other so as to form a complete structure. Because each end section of a completed structure tends to have the beveled edges in Fig. 6, with a 45° angle to the bevel, adjoining pieces placed together will have a 90° relationship to each other, which will have the effect of making any adjoining walls square and the lines between the connections of the side walls and the ceiling also 90°. This is highly useful in allowing small groups of assemblers to build the components of the structure which can then be connected to form the finished structure. This further simplifies and enhances the ability of these modular parts to quickly and effectively provide a structural element which can be assembled into structures with limited guidance and expertise.

Accordingly, an improved modular structural space frame system

constructed in accordance with the invention is provided. The system allows for rapid and reliable assembly of structural space systems under difficult construction environments by those relatively unskilled in construction techniques without the need for many or even any tools. It also allows for the use of the modular materials to be easily transported by one or a few people without the need for separate transportation to a desired location for assembly of the structure.

It will thus be seen that the objects set forth above, among those made apparent in the preceding description, are efficiently obtained, and, since certain changes may be made in the above construction without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative, and not in a limiting sense.

It is also understood that the following claims are intended to cover all of the generic and specific features of the invention herein described and all statements of the scope of the invention, which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.

Claims

CLAIMS WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A modular structural space system, comprising:

a first member, having a generally straight body with openings proximate each end of the straight body, with a cross sectional shape adapted to nest with other first members for transport and storage;

a second member, having a generally straight central body portion having openings in each bent flange member proximate each end of the straight central body portion, with a cross sectional shape adapted to nest with other second members for transport and storage; and

connectors for joining the first and second members by extending through holes in joined first and second members to retain the connection between the joined members;

whereby structural space elements are formed and maintained.

2. The modular structural space system of Claim 1 wherein the cross sectional shape of the central body portion of the second member is angled.

3. The modular structural space system of Claim 2 wherein the angled central body portion has two straight members separated by an angle of about 90°.

4. The modular structural space system of Claim 2, wherein the angled central body section includes two flat surfaces joined at a common edge defining the angle between them, the two flat surfaces only extending to proximate the ends of the first member and to the flanges proximate the ends of the second member.

5. The modular structural space system of Claim 1 wherein the cross sectional shape of the central body portion is half of a hexagon.

6. The modular structural space system of Claim 1 wherein the cross sectional shape of the central body portion is flat.

7. The modular structural space system of Claim 1 wherein the cross sectional shape of the central body portion is an arc.

8. The modular structural space system of Claim 1 wherein the connectors are a nut and bolt.

9. The modular structural space system of Claim 1 wherein the connectors are a wingnut and bolt.

10. The modular structural space system of Claim 1 wherein the connectors are a cotter pin and bolt.

11. The modular structural space system of Claim 1 wherein the first member has a central portion and two end portions, the end portions being of similar length to the flange portions of the second member.

12. The modular structural space system of Claim 11 wherein the end portions of the first member have openings a distance from the end of the end portions for receiving the connectors.

13. The modular structural space system of Claim 1 wherein the second members have openings a distance from the end of the flange portions for receiving the connectors.

14. The modular structural space system of Claim 12 wherein the second members have openings a distance from the end of the flange portions for receiving the connectors.

15. The modular structural space system of Claim 14 wherein the openings in the first member and the second member are of similar size and adapted to receive the connectors.

16. The modular structural space system of Claim 1 wherein the bent flange members on either end of the second member are angled similarly relative to a plane formed by the central portion of the second member, with one end's bent flange above the plane of the second member and the other end's bent flange below the plane of the second member.

17. The modular structural space system of Claim 16 wherein the angle between each of the bent flange members and the central portion of the second member is between 135 and 150 degrees.

18. The modular structural space system of Claim 16 wherein the angle beween each of the bent flange members and the central portion of the second member is between 140 and 145 degrees.

19. The modular structural space system of Claim 16 wherein the angle beween each of the bent flange members and the central portion of the second member is between 141 and 143 degrees.

20. The modular structural space system of Claim 1 wherein the first and second members and connectors are sized down to be used as a toy or model construction set to design new structures.

21. The modular structural space system of Claim 1 wherein the first and second members are formed from structurally rigid materials.

22. The modular structural space system of Claim 21 wherein the first and second members are formed from aluminum or plastic.

23. The modular structural space system of Claim 1 further including a third member which is a shorter version of the first member, a first column member and a second column member.

24. The modular structural space system of Claim 23 wherein the first column member has a central section and two bent flanges at either end, the bent flanges being angled on the same side of the central section's plane.

25. The modular structural space system of Claim 24 wherein the second column member is shorter than the first column member and has a central section and two bent flanges at either end, the bent flanges being angled on opposite sides of the central section's plane.

26. A modular structural space system, comprising:

a first member, having a generally flat, straight body with openings proximate each end of the straight body;

a second member, having a generally flat straight central body portion having openings in each bent flange member proximate each end of the straight central body portion; and

whereby structural space elements are formed and maintained.

27. The modular structural space system of Claim 26 wherein the cross sectional shape of the generally flat first member and generally flat central body portion of the second member is angled.

28. The modular structural space system of Claim 27 wherein the angled central body portion has two straight members separated by an angle of about 90°.

29. The modular structural space system of Claim 27, wherein the angled central body section includes two flat surfaces joined at a common edge defining the angle between them, the two flat surfaces only extending to proximate the ends of the first member and to the flanges proximate the ends of the second member.

30. The modular structural space system of Claim 26 wherein the cross sectional shape of the generally flat first member and generally flat central body portion of the second member is half of a hexagon.

31. The modular structural space system of Claim 26 wherein the connectors are a nut and bolt.

32. The modular structural space system of Claim 26 wherein the first member has a central portion and two end portions, the end portions being of similar length to the flange portions of the second member.

33. The modular structural space system of Claim 32 wherein the end portions of the first member have openings a distance from the end of the end portions for receiving the connectors.

34. The modular structural space system of Claim 26 wherein the second members have openings a distance from the end of the flange portions for receiving the connectors.

35. The modular structural space system of Claim 26 wherein the bent flange members on either end of the second member are angled similarly relative to a plane formed by the central portion of the second member, with one end's bent flange above the plane of the second member and the other end's bent flange below the plane of the second member.

36. The modular structural space system of Claim 35 wherein the angle beween each of the bent flange members and the central portion of the second member is between 140 and 145 degrees.

37. The modular structural space system of Claim 35 wherein the angle beween each of the bent flange members and the central portion of the second member is between 141 and 143 degrees.

38. The modular structural space system of Claim 26 further including a third member which is a shorter version of the first member, a first column member and a second column member.

39. The modular structural space system of Claim 38 wherein the first column member has a central section and two bent flanges at either end, the bent flanges being angled on the same side of the central section's plane.

40. The modular structural space system of Claim 39wherein the second column member is shorter than the first column member and has a central section and two bent flanges at either end, the bent flanges being angled on opposite sides of the central section's plane.