WO2019057669A1

WO2019057669A1 - Shelter comprising a plurality of modules suitable for being solidly connected together to form a gridshell lattice structure

Info

Publication number: WO2019057669A1
Application number: PCT/EP2018/075086
Authority: WO
Inventors: Simon Hulin; Mathieu SUDRES
Original assignee: Quaternion Design
Priority date: 2017-09-22
Filing date: 2018-09-17
Publication date: 2019-03-28
Also published as: FR3071528B1; FR3071528A1

Abstract

A shelter comprising a plurality of modules (M) suitable for being solidly connected together in order to form a gridshell lattice structure, each module (M) comprising a plurality of first parallel segments (2A) and a plurality of second parallel segments (2B), each first segment (2A) being articulated with each second segment (2B) along a pivot pin (3) so as to form a plurality of deformable elementary meshes (20), the lower slat of each first segment (2A) being connected to the pivot pin (3) by a first translation clearance, the lower slat of each second segment (2B) being connected to the pivot pin (3) by a second translation clearance in order to allow the deformation of said module (M) along two curves, each segment (2A, 2B) comprising, at a first end, first abutment means (7) and, at a second end, second abutment means (8) suitable for engaging with the first abutment means (7).

Description

SHELTER COMPRISING A PLURALITY OF MODULES ADAPTED TO BE SOLIDARIZED TOGETHER TO FORM A MESH STRUCTURE OF THE "GRIDSHELL" TYPE

GENERAL TECHNICAL FIELD AND PRIOR ART

The present invention relates to the field of mesh structures intended to form a shelter. Such a structure is known to those skilled in the art under its English designation "gridshell". In known manner, a mesh structure is used to form a permanent shelter. Recently, it has been proposed to use this type of structure to form an ephemeral shelter during events, for example, for a reception or a show.

In the field of events, it is known tent or barnum type shelters, consisting of a rigid structure covered with a stretched canvas. Such rigid structures are generally rectangular in shape and comprise an assembly of metal beams assembled by interlocking or clipping, so as to form a rectangular parallelepiped frame. Such a frame is then covered with a cover, configured to form the roof and the side walls of the shelter.

However such barnums or tents, unsightly and outdated, constantly have identical shapes, which does not allow optimal adaptation to all spaces. In addition, the metal frame has a significant weight, which has the disadvantage of increasing the hardness and the duration of assembly. In a known manner, a gridshell-type mesh structure is a structure forming a grid, whose shape and rigidity are comparable to a double-curved shell.

A known mesh structure includes a one-piece assembly of a plurality of generally wooden slats. Such a structure comprises for this a set of first parallel slats and a set of second slats also parallel. Each first slat is configured to be articulated to each second slat so as to form a mesh of wooden slats whose mesh is deformable due to multiple joints. It is thus possible to form aesthetic shelters of various shapes. In addition, the slats being wood, the shelter has a reduced weight, which facilitates its handling.

In order to mount the shelter, the assembly of the slats is made flat, for example on the ground, while maintaining a game of articulation and translation when connecting a first slat to a second slat. The assembly is then locally elevated, for example in the center of the structure, so as to form a kind of dome. The mesh structure then allows, by elastic deformation of the wooden slats, to modify the shape of the shelter by adapting to the geometry of the place or to a particular desired configuration. When the desired shape is reached, the translational play and the hinge between the slats are then removed so as to obtain a stiffened structure.

However, the assembly of all the slats has the disadvantage of requiring special means of transport and expensive. In addition, each monobloc slat requires to be custom made, to adapt to the area of the space in which the shelter must be installed. Each shelter is thus made to measure and can not be reused in another configuration, having the disadvantage of being expensive and consume a large amount of wood, which is contrary to ecological approaches increasingly sought after today.

Such shelter may further include a blanket, stretched over the mesh structure, to protect individuals present under the shelter from inclement weather, including rain. However, such a cover is not deformable, which has the disadvantage of not being able to adapt to different structures.

One of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a shelter adaptable to different geometries, providing a light structure, aesthetic and easy to install. The invention also aims at an eco-responsible shelter, by proposing a reusable and easily transportable structure, not requiring the use of specific means of transport. Finally, the invention aims to provide a cover that can be used for each geometry of the shelter.

DE 3715228 and US 5069009 disclose prior art structures consisting of a first series of parallel bars and a second series of parallel bars. series of parallel bars hinged together to form meshes. Each junction between the two sets of bars can be articulated so as to deform the mesh to form a curved structure. However, such structures are mounted in one piece and do not allow adaptation to different forms of structure. Document GB 2361504 is also known which teaches a system for assembling a set of beams allowing the relative movement of a first beam with respect to a second beam, perpendicular to the first beam. However the first beam is attached to the assembly system does not allow a curvature of the structure in different directions.

GENERAL PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

For this purpose, the invention relates to a shelter comprising a plurality of modules adapted to be joined together to form a gridshell mesh structure,

each module comprising a plurality of first parallel segments and a plurality of second parallel segments, each first segment and each second segment comprising a lower slat and an upper slat, each slat being made of wood and one piece, each first segment being articulated with each second segment; segment along an axis of articulation so as to form a plurality of deformable elementary meshes, the lower lath of each first segment being connected to the axis of articulation by a first translational play along the length of the first segment, the lower lath each second segment being connected to the hinge axis by a second translational play along the length of the second segment so as to allow said module to be deformed according to two curvatures,

each module comprising a plurality of clamping members adapted to respectively block the axes of articulation of said module to stiffen the connection between each first segment and each second segment.

Such a shelter, advantageously modular, thus makes it possible to adapt the size and geometry of the structure to the environment in which the shelter is to be installed, by associating a different number of modules according to the desired structure. The articulation between each first segment and each second segment makes it possible to locally stretch the elementary meshes so as to reorganize the distribution of all the segments of the structure and thus deform the shelter. The deformation according to two curvatures allows an adjustment of the dimensions of the shelter, thus easily having any desired shape, which allows the installation of an aesthetic shelter having a complex shape. Due to the modularity, each module is preassembled during transport and can be combined with another module quickly and conveniently, reducing installation time. In addition, depending on the shelter that one wishes to form, one can use a different assembly of modules as well as a different number of modules. Such reuse reduces the intrinsic cost of such a shelter.

Preferably, each module comprises bracing links connecting the clamping members. Preferably, each bracing link has two strands to strengthen the bracing system. Such bracing links make it possible, with a reduced weight, to mechanically stabilize the overall structure, for example, in the face of climatic events, such as strong gusts of wind or shocks hitting the structure horizontally, for example.

Preferably, each clamping member comprises a plurality of slots adapted to guide bracing links. Thus, the clamping member performs, on the one hand, a clamping function of the clamping axis and, on the other hand, a guiding function of the bracing links. Preferably, the lower base of the clamping member comprises eight slots, allowing the passage of four strands bracing links.

According to a preferred aspect, each clamping member is associated with an interface member adapted to cooperate with the clamping member in order to clamp bracing links. Advantageously, the interface member is configured to form a stop means for the clamping member during a clamping operation in order to prevent the clamping member from coming into contact with the wood. an upper batten. Preferably, each segment comprises, at a first end, first abutment means and, at a second end, second abutment means adapted to cooperate with first abutment means. More preferably, the first abutment means comprise two metal blades. Such metal blades make it possible to form a robust abutment, which is important since the modules are intended to be assembled / disassembled many times to form different forms of shelter. In addition, a metal blade is thin and does not generate extra thickness while providing flexibility during abutment. Advantageously, the thickness of the metal blade is chosen so as to bend similarly to the slats and thus obtain a constant curvature between two modules.

Preferably, the first abutment means comprise an abutment wedge positioned between the ends of the metal blades in order to maintain a constant spacing between the slats during abutting.

According to one aspect of the invention, the second segment comprises an upper lath positioned between the lower lath and the upper lath of the first segment. Such entanglement provides a robust connection between each first segment and each second segment.

Preferably, each lower lath of a segment has a length less than the length of the upper lath of said segment. Thus, the lower slats can adapt flexibly to the curvature of the upper slats without projecting protrusion at the ends of the segments, which would interfere with the abutment or fixing of the shelter on its mounting location.

Preferably, each segment comprises a plurality of spacer blocks and each spacer is inserted between the upper lath and the lower lath of the segment between two adjacent axes of articulation. Such spacer blocks allow a better distribution of forces throughout the shelter and the maintenance of a constant spacing in a module between all the upper slats and the set of lower slats. The module thus has homogeneous mechanical characteristics.

Preferably, each module comprises a plurality of flaking scales and each covering flange is articulated to two axes of articulation of said module. The cover scales can thus move relative to each other, especially by sliding, to adapt to the shape of the shelter while forming a waterproof cover. Such covering scales are advantageous because the modules make it possible to form different configurations for a shelter, that is to say, different shapes.

Preferably, each cover flake comprises a first circular orifice adapted to cooperate with a hinge pin and a second elongate orifice adapted to cooperate with another axis of articulation of the module. Due to the second elongated orifice, each cover flake makes it possible to tolerate deformation of the mesh of the module to which it is connected. During the deformation of the mesh, each cover scale moves in rotation to cover optimally said mesh. Preferably, each covering scale comprises a main body, in which the first orifice is formed, and an auxiliary member, preferably in the form of a strip, in which the second orifice is formed. Preferably, the auxiliary member is attached to the main body at an opposite end of the first port. Preferably, at least three covering scales, preferably four more, are articulated to the same axis of articulation to form a sealed cover. The same hinge pin is thus connected to two covering scales via their first orifices and to two covering scales through their second orifices, allowing a translational adjustment of two of the covering scales on the four.

The invention also relates to a method of mounting a shelter as presented above from a plurality of preassembled modules and comprising translation and articulation games, said method comprising: a step of abutting a plurality of modules to form a shelter,

a step of setting volume of said shelter to form a dome and a step of clamping the clamping axes by the inside of the shelter so as to stiffen the shelter by eliminating the translation and articulation games.

Advantageously, the shape of the shelter can be locked only from the inside, which avoids operators to use lifting gear to access the outer surface of the shelter.

Optionally, the method may further comprise a step of assembling a plurality of flaking scales prior to setting volume in order to form a cover adapted to the dimensions of the shelter. The position and the orientation of each cover scale being automatically adjusted during the setting volume due to the joints of the cover scales.

According to a preferred aspect of the invention, each upper slat comprises a plurality of nuts intended to cooperate with clamping axes in order to secure a lower slat with an upper slat. Preferably, the nuts are gripper nuts integral with the upper batten. The claws of the nut-claw allow the nut to fit into the wood of the upper batten to allow clamping from inside the shelter, not requiring the intervention of two people, positioned from and other of the shelter.

PRESENTATION OF FIGURES

The invention will be better understood on reading the description which will follow, given solely by way of example, and referring to the appended drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic representation of a shelter placed in volume according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a module of the shelter of FIG. 1 comprising several segments; FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of an articulated connection between a first segment and a second segment of the module of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the articulated connection of FIG. 3;

FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 are diagrammatic representations respectively in perspective, from the side and from above of a clamping member of the module of FIG.

2;

FIG. 8 is a schematic view of an assembly of a shim inserted between an upper lath and a lower lath of a segment;

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the assembly of FIG. 8;

- Figure 10 is a schematic representation of the abutment of a first module with a second module;

- Figures 1 1 and 12 are close schematic representations of the cooperation of first abutting means of the first module with second abutment means of the second module of Figure 10;

FIG. 13 is a schematic representation of a module of FIG. 2 comprising a plurality of cover scales;

FIGS. 14 and 15 schematically represent a first covering scale and a second covering scale;

- Figure 1 6 is a schematic representation of a connection between four cover scales;

- Figure 17 schematically shows assembly steps of modules to form a shelter and put in volume;

FIG. 18A and 18B are diagrammatic representations of a first example of a modular shelter according to the invention, flat and set in volume and

- Figure 19A and 19B are schematic representations of a second example of a modular shelter according to the invention flat and set volume.

It should be noted that the figures disclose the invention in detail to implement the invention, said figures can of course be used to better define the invention where appropriate.

DESCRIPTION OF ONE OR MORE MODES OF REALIZATION AND IMPLEMENTATION Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a shelter 10 forming a mesh structure of the type "gridshell" according to the invention. Such a shelter 10 is for example intended to be mounted in an outside location, for reception. The shelter 10 comprises a plurality of modules M secured together so as to form a mesh structure of the "Gridshell" type of large size in order to accommodate the public. For example, the shelter 10 may cover a floor area of the order of 70 m ² . As will be presented hereinafter in detail, a modular shelter 10 facilitates transport and assembly while allowing to form different types of shelters 10 (different dimensions, different shapes, etc.) from the same set This type of shelter 10 makes it possible to adapt to the constraints of the mounting zone.

The shelter 10 is configured to move between an "unstressed" or "flat" state, in which the shelter 10 is planar, for example placed on the ground, and a "stiffened" or "set in volume" state, forming a kind of dome, in which the shelter 10 fulfills its function. Subsequently, the terms "inner" and "outer" are defined relative to the shelter 10 of Figure 1 shown in the stiffened state. The shelter 10 has an inner surface SI facing the ground and an outer surface SE opposite to the inner surface SI. A preferred embodiment of a module M is illustrated in Figure 2. In this figure, the module M is shown "flat" and extends in a plane (X, Y). The module M has a thickness defined along a vertical axis Z, orthogonal to the plane (X, Y). Subsequently, the terms "upper" and "lower" are defined relative to the vertical axis Z which is oriented from the bottom upwards, that is to say, from a lower position to a higher position.

Each module M comprises a plurality of first segments 2A and a plurality of second segments 2B. In this example, the module M comprises first 5 segments 2A and 5 second segments 2B but it goes without saying that their numbers could be different. The first segments 2A are parallel to each other and extend along the longitudinal axis X while the second segments 2B are parallel to each other and extend along the lateral axis Y. Each first segment 2A is thus secant at each second segment 2B so as to form a plurality of elementary meshes 20. As illustrated in Figure 4, each first segment 2A is articulated to each second segment 2B by means of a hinge axis 3 extending along the Z axis so as to allow a set of QR rotation. Also, in this example, the module M of Figure 2 comprises 25 axes of articulation 3. Such a grid structure allows a folding of the module by bringing the first segments 2A together and bringing the second segments 2B closer together. Thus, during its transport, the module M has a very small footprint.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, each first segment 2A is connected to the hinge axis 3 by a first translational play ΔΑ according to the length of the first segment 2A. Similarly, each second segment 2B is connected to the hinge axis 3 by a second translational play ΔΒ along the length of the second segment 2B. Thanks to the QR rotation set and the translation sets ΔΑ, ΔΒ, the module M can be deformed so as to have a double curvature. Referring to Figure 4, each module M further comprises a plurality of clamping members 5 adapted to block the hinge pins 3 of the module M to stiffen the connection between the first segment 2A and the second segment 2B. In other words, the clamping members 5 make it possible to eliminate the rotation clearance ΩΖ and the translation stops ΔΑ, ΔΒ in order to obtain a modulus M placed in volume that is stable.

The first segments 2A and the second segments 2B comprise the same assembly of parts and differ only in their orientation, along the X or Y axes. With reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, each segment 2A, 2B comprises a lower batten 21 mounted in a screw configuration. with an upper batten 22. Such slats 21, 22 are monobloc and wood so as to be deformable by bending while having a light weight. In this embodiment, each slat 21, 22 is in the form of a rectangular parallelepiped. Preferably, each slat 21, 22 preferably has a length of between 2m and 4m, more preferably between 2950 and 3000 mm. Preferably, each slat 21, 22 has a width, orthogonal to said length, between 48 and 52 mm, and a thickness of 1 1 and 13 mm. As will be presented later, such dimensions allow the transport of a module M using traditional transport (heavy weight, etc.). Preferably, the lower laffe 21 has a length less than the length of the upper lath 22 of the same segment 2A, 2B, so as to allow a controlled deformation of a module M in its stiffened state as will be presented to Figure 12. Viewed from above, the shelter 10 has a convex structure whose maximum radius of curvature is defined according to the mechanical properties of each module M, in particular, a maximum radius of curvature of 2.5 m. The difference in length between a lower batten 21 and an upper batten 22 is determined to tolerate the predetermined maximum radius of curvature.

As indicated above, with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, each first segment 2A is articulated with each second segment 2B according to an axis of articulation 3 extending along the vertical axis Z, so as to allow the deformation of the elementary meshes 20 formed by crossing the first segments 2A with the second segments 2B. Such hinge pin 3 is preferably in the form of a threaded rod, to also provide a clamping function, which will be described in more detail later. Each elemental mesh 20 can thus be stretched and deformed locally so as to reorganize the distribution of all the segments 2A, 2B.

Referring to Figure 4, to allow the mounting of the hinge pin 3, each lower slat 21 has a lower orifice 23 of oblong shape while each upper slat 22 has an upper orifice 24 of circular shape. Advantageously, the lower orifice 23 of the lower slat 21 of a first segment 2A allows the formation of the first translational play ΔΑ while the lower orifice 23 of the lower slat 21 of a second segment 2B allows the formation of the second translation game ΔΒ.

Advantageously, each first segment 2A makes it possible to define a plurality of first translation sets ΔΑ while each second segment 2B makes it possible to define a plurality of second translation sets ΔΒ in order to allow deformation of the mesh structure according to two curvatures. Such translation sets ΔΑ, ΔΒ thus allow the adjustment of the length of the lower slats 21 with respect to the length of the upper slats 22 when the shelter 10 is in its stiffened state. In other words, the translation games ΔΑ, ΔΒ make it possible to adjust the positioning of each slat 21, 22 relative to each other, when the shelter 10 is set in volume. The distribution of translation sets ΔΑ, ΔΒ on the various hinge axes 3 of the same module M allows homogeneous deformation and optimal catch-up of the lengths of deformation, which is advantageous compared to shelters 10 according to the prior art. Preferably, the first segments 2A and the second segments 2B are entangled so as to form a superposition of wooden slats, allowing reinforcement of the mesh structure. Indeed, as shown in FIG. 4, each module M comprises, successively, from bottom to top, at each hinge pin 3, a lower slat 21 of the first segment 2A, a lower slat 21 of the second segment 2B , an upper slat 22 of the first segment 2A and finally an upper slat 22 of the second segment 2B, for reinforcing the mesh structure of the module M.

Referring to Figures 3 and 4, it will be presented in detail the articulation between a first segment 2A and a second segment 2B. The hinge pin 3 comprises at a first end a head 3A and, at a second end, a threaded portion 3B adapted to cooperate with a clamping member 5 to block the segments 2A, 2B together and eliminate the sets ΔΑ, ΔΒ, QR. With reference to FIGS. 5 to 7, the clamping member 5 is in the form of a part of revolution which comprises a lower part 5A open downwards, an intermediate part 5B and an upper part 5C open towards the top. The lower part 5A of the clamping member 5 preferably has a diameter of between 20 and 40 mm, and comprises a plurality of peripheral slots 51 which extend radially with respect to the Z axis to allow guiding the links. bracing 6 as will be described in more detail later. In addition, it facilitates assembly and maintenance. The intermediate portion 5B has a threaded inner portion 52 adapted to cooperate with the threaded portion 3B of the hinge pin 3. The upper portion 5C advantageously allows the passage of a hinge axis 3 of great length to allow the mounting a cover on the module M from above as will be presented later.

As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the slats 21, 22 are sandwiched between the head 3A of the fixing pin 3 and the clamping member 5. In order to prevent the slats 21, 22 from entering in contact and remain spaced apart, a hinge block 4 is placed between two slats 21, 22 consecutive. Each hinge block 4 comprises a circular opening to allow the passage of the hinge pin 3. Preferably, each hinge block 4 is made of wood. Similarly, in order to allow an optimal distribution of the forces during the tightening of the head 3A of the hinge pin 3, it is planned to associate a washer 26 to the head 3A of the hinge pin 3.

Advantageously, the module M comprises an interface member 25 between the upper lath 22 of the first segment 2A and the clamping member 5. In this example, the interface member 25 has a shape similar to a washer and has a diameter, comprised between 15 and 20 mm, which is smaller than the diameter of the lower part 5A of the clamping member 5 so as to be inserted at least partially inside the clamping member 5 during the screwing the hinge pin 3 into the clamping member 5. Indeed, the interface member 25 is configured to allow the locking of bracing links 6 which are guided by the clamping member 5, while avoiding a direct contact between the clamping member 5 and the slats 21, 22. For this purpose, the interface member 25 has a thickness which is preferably between 2 and 3 mm, so as to allow clamping segments 2A, 2B and the nipping of the bracing links 6, san s that the clamping member 5 comes into contact with the slats 21, 22 to limit any damage to the wood. Also, preferably, the thickness of the lower portion 5A of the clamping member 5 is less than the sum of the thickness of the interface member 25 and the thickness of the bracing links 6, the order of 3mm. Clamping of the hinge pin 3 is achieved from the bottom, that is to say, by rotating the head 3A of the hinge pin 3. This is particularly advantageous when setting up volume of shelter 10 as will be presented later. The rotation of the clamping member 5 is advantageously prohibited by the bracing links 6.

Referring to Figures 8 and 9, each segment 2A, 2B, further comprises a plurality of spacers 14, distributed along said segment 2A, 2B which are adapted to maintain a constant spacing between the lower batten 21 and the batten upper 22 of the same segment 2A, 2B. Each spacer 14 is positioned so preferred equidistant from each hinge pin 3 to ensure uniform vertical separation during deformation. Each spacer 14 is preferably of wood and has a thickness, defined along the vertical axis Z, of between 35 and 37 mm, so as to ensure a spacing similar to the spacing between a lower slat 21 and a slat upper 22 present at the hinge axis 3 of two segments 2A, 2B.

In this example, with reference to Figure 9, the spacer 14 is secured to the upper batten 22 by any suitable means, including nailing, riveting or screwing. The spacer 14 has an opening of circular section 40 aligned with an orifice 24 of circular section of the upper slat 22 to allow the passage of a clamping axis 13. In this example, a nut 15 is mounted in the orifice 24 formed in the upper lath 22 so as to cooperate with a threaded portion the clamping axis 13. Preferably, the nut 15 is a "nut claw" which is integral with the upper lath 22. The nut 15 being fixed, the slats 21, 22 can be tightened by acting only on the clamping axis 13.

In a manner analogous to that previously, the lower batten 21 comprises an oblong hole 23 for the passage of the clamping axis 13 so as to allow a translational play ΔΑ, ΔΒ along the axis of the lower batten 21. Following the tightening of the clamping axis 13, the translational play ΔΑ, ΔΒ is canceled.

In other words, because of the multiple translation sets ΔΑ, ΔΒ and rotation QR which are distributed over the length of each segment 2A, 2B, each segment 2A, 2B can be deformed freely in order to obtain complex shapes. By simply clamping from below, the deformation of a segment 2A, 2B can be fixed to obtain a segment 2A, 2B having a high stiffness.

With reference to FIG. 2, in order to ensure the overall stability of a module M and, more generally, of the shelter 10, the module M comprises bracing links 6 preferably in the form of rope ties. in order to limit the mass. The operation of such bracing links 6 is known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in more detail. Preferably, each confrevenfemenf link 6 comprises two strands so as to allow redundancy and a better distribution of bracing efforts. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, each bracing link 6 extends between two clamping members 5 from different segments 2A, 2B so as to form a cross in each elemental mesh 20. In other words, each bracing link 6 extends obliquely with respect to the segments 2A, 2B connected by a clamping member 5.

In this example, each strand of the bracing link 6 is configured to fit into slots 51 of the lower base 5A of the clamping member 5 to be guided (not shown). Each bracing link 6 being doubled, the lower base 51 A preferably comprises 8 slots 51. Each strand of the bracing link 6 extends substantially diametrically in a clamping member 5 and is inserted underneath so as to include a portion extending between the threaded portion 52 of the clamping member 5 and the body member. interface 25.

When tightening a hinge pin 3, the clamping member 5 moves downwards towards the interface member 25, its rotation being prohibited by the bracing links 6. The bracing links 6 inserted in the slots 51 are then clamped between the threaded portion 52 of the clamping member 5 and the interface member 25, which blocks the position of the bracing links 6. It will now be presented the assembly of modules M between them.

In order to form the shelter 10, each module M is configured to cooperate with a plurality of adjacent modules M. For this purpose, with reference to FIG. 2, each module M comprises at a first end, first abutment means 7 and, at a second end, second abutment means 8. As will be presented hereinafter, the first abutment means 7 and the second abutment means 8 are complementary to connect two modules M together. More specifically, still with reference to FIG. 2, the first segments 2A comprise at a first end, first abutment means 7 and, at a second end, second abutment means 8. In a similar manner, second segments 2B comprise at a first end, first abutment means 7 and, at a second end, second abutment means 8.

Referring to Figure 10, there is shown a first module Ml and a second module M2 respectively comprising first abutment means 7 for cooperating with second abutment means 8 to assemble the two modules Ml, M2. The cooperation of first abutment means 7 and second abutment means 8 is shown in detail in FIGS. 11 and 12.

The first abutment means 7, here of the male type, comprise a lower blade 71 and an upper blade 72 fixed respectively to the lower slat 21 and to the upper slat 22, for example, by means of fixing screws, rivets or like. The blades 71, 72 are positioned between the slats 21, 22 so as not to create extra thickness at the interface between two segments 2A, 2B, which makes the interface homogeneous between two modules Ml, M2 and improves the aesthetic qualities . In other words, the upper blade 72 is fixed on the lower face of the upper lath 22 while the lower blade 71 is fixed on the upper face of the lower lath 21. The blades 71, 72 are metal, preferably steel, so as to be robust without creating extra thickness. The blades 71, 72 of the first module Ml project from the ends of the slats 21, 22 so as to be able to ensure the connection with the slats 21, 22 of the second module M2.

Referring to Figure 1 1, each blade 71, 72 comprises a first end, fixed to the first module Ml and a second projecting end, adapted to be fixed to the second module M2. The projecting ends of the blades 71, 72 are spaced apart by an abutment shim 74, similar to the spacer 14 described above, so as to maintain a constant spacing between the lower slats 21 and the upper slats 22 in the all of the structure of the shelter 10. As illustrated in Figure 1 1, the abutment shim 74 is fixed to the blades 71, 72 by fixing screws. The projecting end of each blade 71, 72 further comprises two through-holes 75 extending along the Z axis which are adapted to receive two clamping axes 83. It goes without saying that the number of clamping axes 83 could be different, that is to say, equal to 1 or greater than 2. The second abutment means 8 are here of the "female" type and are formed directly at the ends of the slats 21, 22. As shown in Figure 1 1, the upper slat 22 comprises two nuts 85, including claw nuts, while the lower batten 21 has two elongated openings 23 vis-à-vis the nuts 85 to take the projecting ends of the blades 71, 72 sandwiched between the lower batten 21 and the upper batten 22 of the second module M2. Such nuts 85 allow to cooperate with the two clamping axes 83. Each clamping axis 83 thus passes successively through the lower batten 21 of the second module M2, the lower blade 71, the abutment shim 74, the upper blade 72 and the upper batten 22 of the second module M2. Due to the elongated openings 23, the abutment also allows a translational play ΔΑ, ΔΒ, which allows a homogeneous deformation between two adjacent modules Ml, M2.

Thanks to the abutment means 7, 8 according to the invention, the connection between two modules Ml, M2 is invisible from the outside of the shelter 10, allowing the assembly of a shelter 10 which is aesthetic. The modular aspect of the shelter 10 does not thus negatively impact its aesthetic appearance.

As indicated above, with reference to FIG. 12, the lower batten 21 of the first module M1, to which the lower plate 71 is connected, has a shorter length than the upper batten 22 so as to take account of the deformation of the shelter. 10 according to its radius of curvature.

In a preferred manner, in order to protect the public present under the weather shelter, each module M comprises a plurality of covering flakes 9A, 9B, configured to cover the mesh structure as partially shown in FIG. 13.

With reference to FIGS. 14 and 15, each covering shell 9A, 9B comprises a first orifice 91, of circular shape, and a second orifice 92, of oblong shape, which are respectively adapted to cooperate with two adjacent axes of articulation 3 of the same segment 2A, 2B. In this embodiment, each covering flake 9A, 9B comprises a main body 90, in which the first orifice 91 is formed, and an auxiliary member 93, which is in the form of a strip, in which the second port 92. The auxiliary member 93 is attached to the main body at an opposite end of the first port 91 as shown in Figures 14 and 15.

In this example, with reference to FIG. 13, the module M comprises first flakes 9A extending substantially along the first segments 2A and second flakes 9B extending substantially along the first segments 2B. The use of two types of flakes 9A, 9B advantageously makes it possible to form an evolutionary layout according to the shape of the shelter 10. In order to allow optimal coverage of the structure of the module M, each flake 9A, 9B presents preferably dimensions of between 650 and 750 mm in length and 500 and 600 mm in width. In this embodiment, the first flakes 9A and the second flakes 9B have different shapes, but it goes without saying that they could be identical.

As illustrated in Figure 13, each first shell 9A cooperates with two consecutive axes of articulation of the same first segment 2A. Similarly, each second shell 9B cooperates with two consecutive hinge pins 3 of the same second segment 2B. The first two adjacent scales 9A overlap partially like tiles. The same is true of the second scales 9B.

Such an assembly of flaking scales 9A, 9B advantageously makes it possible to adapt the shape and the dimensions of the cover to the shape and the dimensions of the mesh structure of the module M. Advantageously, like the second orifices 92 of the scales of cover 9A, 9B have an elongated shape, the cover scales 9A, 9B can move with a clearance at the second orifice 92. Thus, during the deformation of a module M, the cover scales 9A, 9B move to adapt to the deformation while covering the module M optimally.

In this example, with reference to FIG. 16, the cooperation of four scales 9A, 9B will be presented to a hinge axis 3. The hinge axis 3 extends vertically from bottom to top and passes successively the first circular hole 91 of a first lower flake 9A, the first circular orifice of a second lower flake 9B, the second oblong orifice 92 of a second upper flake 9B and the second oblong orifice 92 of a first upper flake 9A. Thus, the covering scales 9A, 9B are entangled so as to form a sealed surface against bad weather and, in particular rain. Advantageously, the auxiliary members 93 do not extend projecting from the main body 90 of the second scales 9B so as to be hidden in the entanglement, which does not affect the aesthetic rendering of the shelter 10.

In this example, it has been presented a hinge pin which extends in vertical projection from the clamping member 5 to allow the attachment of the covering scales 9A, 9B. Since the covering flakes 9A, 9B are optional, it is preferably provided to use a short hinge pin which does not project vertically from the clamping member 5 and which is completed, as the case may be. where appropriate, by an extender when covering scales 9A, 9B are to be put in place. Thus, a hinge pin 3 allows to allow articulation between the segments 2A, 2B, a clamping but also an articulation between the covering scales 9A, 9B. The use of a short hinge axis is advantageous when the shelter 10 is equipped with a flexible cover in canvas or plastic. Indeed, the clamping member 25 forms an upper protection of the hinge pin and avoids the punching of the cover by said hinge axis. Advantageously, thanks to the covering scales 9A, 9B according to the invention, the scales 9A, 9B can be pre-installed during the formation of a flat M module. When the shelter 10 is formed and placed in volume, the scales 9A, 9B are automatically shifted to form a sealed cover for said shelter 10. It will now be described a method of mounting a shelter 10 in a manner preferred embodiment of the invention.

To form a shelter 10, several modules M are transported to the installation site. With reference to FIG. 17a, the modules M are transported in the folded state so as to occupy as small a surface as possible. Such modules M can be superimposed in a truck, which limits the size and reduces the cost of transport. In addition, as each module M includes slats 21, 22 preassembled together, the mounting time on the mounting site is greatly reduced, which is very advantageous. In this example, each module M has its bracing links 6 but it goes without saying that they could be positioned later.

In order to form a shelter 10, operators flatly position the plurality of modules M next to each other in order to form a mesh structure to the desired dimensions. Then, the modules M are butted through the abutment means 7.8 while allowing translation games. In particular, the abutment means are only pre-tightened and will not be tightened permanently until afterwards. With reference to FIG. 17b, the modules M of the shelter 10 are connected, but not fixed. In this unstressed state, the meshes 20 of the modules M are able to deform.

Then, the shelter 10 is set in volume by raising for example the center of the shelter 10, in particular by means of props or a crane. The shelter 10 is deformed because of its flexibility. Referring to Figure 1, the ends F of the shelter 10 are fixed at the desired locations of the mounting location so as to constrain the shelter 10 and deform. The translation sets ΔΑ, ΔΒ and rotation QR allow deformation of each module M of the shelter 10. In practice, the upper slats 22 are deformed to give the desired shape, the lower slats 21 adjusting automatically to The deformation of the upper battens 22. Once deformed and fixed, the shelter 10 has a dome shape as shown in FIG. 17c.

Figures 18A-19B show examples of modular shelter formations having different shapes. Indeed, the shelter 10 according to the invention comprises a plurality of modules M may have a shape, for example rectangular or triangular and assembled to form the shelter 10 to the dimensions and the desired shape when it is put in volume. FIGS. 18A and 18B show the example of a shelter 10 comprising thirteen rectangular modules Mi and six triangular modules M2. In this example, FIG. 18A shows the shelter 10 flat, during the assembly of the modules M with each other, and FIG. 18B shows the example of the shelter 10 placed in volume. Similarly, FIGS. 19A and 19B show the example of a shelter 10 comprising a large number of rectangular modules Mi, allowing the formation of a shelter 10 of large dimensions, and eight triangular modules M2, forming the ends F fixed to the ground. In this example, FIG. 19A shows the shelter 10 flat, during the assembly of the modules M with each other, and FIG. 18B shows the example of the shelter 10 placed in volume. Thanks to the assembly according to the invention, the shelter 10 can easily be mounted in different configurations.

In order to stiffen the shelter 10 and increase its stiffness, the operators perform a plurality of steps of tightening the shelter 10 from the inside, that is to say, from below. In particular, the hinge pins 3, 13, 83 are tightened so as to increase the stiffness of the shelter 10. Such clamping steps are simple to implement by an operator because the clamping heads of the clamping axes 3, 13, 83 are directly visible from the inner surface SI of the shelter 10. During the clamping steps, the abutment means 7, 8 and the bracing links 6 are permanently tightened. The bracing links 6 are clamped between a clamping member 5 and an interface member 25.

Advantageously, when the module M comprises covering scales 9A, 9B, these are automatically positioned by sliding over each other to adapt to the shape of the deformed shelter 10. The covering scales 9A, 9B are advantageously not tight but only held on the hinge pins 3.

Thanks to the invention, it is possible to conveniently transport M modules which are preassembled to form different shelter configurations 10. The installation of a shelter 10 at a place of assembly is thus practical and rapid. In addition, each module M can be reused in another configuration, which provides a saving. All the clamping steps can be performed from inside the shelter 1 0, which avoids resorting to expensive lifting means.

Claims

Shelter (10) comprising a plurality of modules (M) adapted to be joined together in order to form a "gridshell" mesh structure,

each module (M) comprising a plurality of first parallel segments (2A) and a plurality of parallel second segments (2B), each first segment (2A) and each second segment (2B) comprising a lower lath (21) and an upper lath (22), each slat (21, 22) being of wood and monobloc,

each first segment (2A) being articulated with each second segment (2B) along an articulation axis (3) so as to form a plurality of deformable elementary meshes (20), the lower lath (21) of each first segment (2A ) being connected to the hinge pin (3) by a first translational clearance (ΔΑ) along the length of the first segment (2A), the lower slat (21) of each second segment (2B) being connected to the articulation pin (3) by a second translational clearance (ΔΒ) along the length of the second segment (2B) in order to allow said module (M) to be deformed according to two curvatures,

each module (M) comprising a plurality of clamping members (5) adapted to respectively block the articulation axes (3) of said module (M) in order to stiffen the connection between each first segment (2A) and each second segment ( 2B)

each segment (2A, 2B) comprising, at a first end, first abutment means (7) and, at a second end, second abutting means (8) adapted to cooperate with first abutment means ( 7).

2. Shelter (10) according to claim 1, wherein each module (M) comprises bracing links (6) connecting the clamping members (5).

3. Shelter (1 0) according to claim 2, wherein each clamping member (5) has a plurality of slots (51) adapted to guide bracing links (6).

4. Shelter (10) according to one of claims 2 to 3, wherein each clamping member (5) is associated with an interface member (25) adapted to cooperate with the clamping member (5) to pinch bracing links (6).

5. Shelter (1 0) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first abutment means (7) comprise two metal blades (71, 72).

6. Shelter (1 0) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein each lower batten (21) of a segment (2A, 2B) has a length less than the length of the upper batten (22) of said segment. (2A, 2B).

7. Shelter (10) according to one of claims 1 to 6, each segment (2A, 2B) comprising a plurality of spacers (14), each spacer (1 4) is inserted between the upper lath (22) and the lower batten (21) of the segment (2A, 2B) between two adjacent hinge pins (3).

8. Shelter (1 0) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein each module (M) comprising a plurality of flaking scales (9A, 9B), each cover flake (9A, 9B) being articulated to two axes of articulation (3) of said module (M).

9. Shelter (10) according to claim 8, wherein each cover flake (9A, 9B) comprises a first circular orifice (91) adapted to cooperate with a hinge pin (3) and a second elongate orifice (92). ) adapted to cooperate with another axis of articulation (3) of the module (M).