WO2022251908A1 - Collapsible structural support and storage module - Google Patents

Collapsible structural support and storage module Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2022251908A1
WO2022251908A1 PCT/AU2022/050531 AU2022050531W WO2022251908A1 WO 2022251908 A1 WO2022251908 A1 WO 2022251908A1 AU 2022050531 W AU2022050531 W AU 2022050531W WO 2022251908 A1 WO2022251908 A1 WO 2022251908A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
parallelepiped
load
longitudinal
elements
beams
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU2022/050531
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Tim REDDEL
Original Assignee
Allshelter Holdings Pty Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Allshelter Holdings Pty Ltd filed Critical Allshelter Holdings Pty Ltd
Priority to AU2022286147A priority Critical patent/AU2022286147A1/en
Priority to GB2319848.4A priority patent/GB2622996A/en
Publication of WO2022251908A1 publication Critical patent/WO2022251908A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/348—Structures composed of units comprising at least considerable parts of two sides of a room, e.g. box-like or cell-like units closed or in skeleton form
    • E04B1/34815—Elements not integrated in a skeleton
    • E04B1/3483—Elements not integrated in a skeleton the supporting structure consisting of metal
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/18—Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons
    • E04B1/19—Three-dimensional framework structures
    • E04B1/1903—Connecting nodes specially adapted therefor
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/32—Arched structures; Vaulted structures; Folded structures
    • E04B1/3205—Structures with a longitudinal horizontal axis, e.g. cylindrical or prismatic structures
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/342—Structures covering a large free area, whether open-sided or not, e.g. hangars, halls
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/343—Structures characterised by movable, separable, or collapsible parts, e.g. for transport
    • E04B1/34315—Structures characterised by movable, separable, or collapsible parts, e.g. for transport characterised by separable parts
    • E04B1/34326—Structures characterised by movable, separable, or collapsible parts, e.g. for transport characterised by separable parts mainly constituted by longitudinal elements
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/343—Structures characterised by movable, separable, or collapsible parts, e.g. for transport
    • E04B1/34384—Assembling details for foldable, separable, collapsible or retractable structures
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/38—Connections for building structures in general
    • E04B1/58—Connections for building structures in general of bar-shaped building elements
    • E04B1/5806—Connections for building structures in general of bar-shaped building elements with a cross-section having an open profile
    • E04B1/5818—Connections for building structures in general of bar-shaped building elements with a cross-section having an open profile of substantially U - form
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/38—Connections for building structures in general
    • E04B1/58—Connections for building structures in general of bar-shaped building elements
    • E04B1/5825—Connections for building structures in general of bar-shaped building elements with a closed cross-section
    • E04B1/5831—Connections for building structures in general of bar-shaped building elements with a closed cross-section of substantially rectangular form
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04C—STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; BUILDING MATERIALS
    • E04C3/00—Structural elongated elements designed for load-supporting
    • E04C3/30—Columns; Pillars; Struts
    • E04C3/32—Columns; Pillars; Struts of metal
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H1/00—Buildings or groups of buildings for dwelling or office purposes; General layout, e.g. modular co-ordination or staggered storeys
    • E04H1/005—Modulation co-ordination
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H1/00—Buildings or groups of buildings for dwelling or office purposes; General layout, e.g. modular co-ordination or staggered storeys
    • E04H1/12—Small buildings or other erections for limited occupation, erected in the open air or arranged in buildings, e.g. kiosks, waiting shelters for bus stops or for filling stations, roofs for railway platforms, watchmen's huts or dressing cubicles
    • E04H1/1205—Small buildings erected in the open air
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/348—Structures composed of units comprising at least considerable parts of two sides of a room, e.g. box-like or cell-like units closed or in skeleton form
    • E04B1/34815—Elements not integrated in a skeleton
    • E04B1/34861—Elements not integrated in a skeleton particular arrangement of habitable rooms or their component parts; modular co-ordination
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/18—Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons
    • E04B1/24—Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons the supporting parts consisting of metal
    • E04B1/2403—Connection details of the elongated load-supporting parts
    • E04B2001/2415—Brackets, gussets, joining plates
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/18—Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons
    • E04B1/24—Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons the supporting parts consisting of metal
    • E04B2001/2466—Details of the elongated load-supporting parts
    • E04B2001/2469—Profile with an array of connection holes
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/32—Arched structures; Vaulted structures; Folded structures
    • E04B2001/3217—Auxiliary supporting devices used during erection of the arched structures
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/32—Arched structures; Vaulted structures; Folded structures
    • E04B2001/327—Arched structures; Vaulted structures; Folded structures comprised of a number of panels or blocs connected together forming a self-supporting structure
    • E04B2001/3276—Panel connection details
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/348—Structures composed of units comprising at least considerable parts of two sides of a room, e.g. box-like or cell-like units closed or in skeleton form
    • E04B2001/34876—Structures composed of units comprising at least considerable parts of two sides of a room, e.g. box-like or cell-like units closed or in skeleton form with a sloping or barrel roof
    • E04B2001/34884—Structures composed of units comprising at least considerable parts of two sides of a room, e.g. box-like or cell-like units closed or in skeleton form with a sloping or barrel roof creating a living space between several units
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04C—STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; BUILDING MATERIALS
    • E04C3/00—Structural elongated elements designed for load-supporting
    • E04C3/02—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces
    • E04C3/04—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal
    • E04C2003/0404—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects
    • E04C2003/0408—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects characterised by assembly or the cross-section
    • E04C2003/0413—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects characterised by assembly or the cross-section being built up from several parts
    • E04C2003/0417—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects characterised by assembly or the cross-section being built up from several parts demountable
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04C—STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; BUILDING MATERIALS
    • E04C3/00—Structural elongated elements designed for load-supporting
    • E04C3/02—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces
    • E04C3/04—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal
    • E04C2003/0404—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects
    • E04C2003/0408—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects characterised by assembly or the cross-section
    • E04C2003/0421—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects characterised by assembly or the cross-section comprising one single unitary part
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04C—STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; BUILDING MATERIALS
    • E04C3/00—Structural elongated elements designed for load-supporting
    • E04C3/02—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces
    • E04C3/04—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal
    • E04C2003/0404—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects
    • E04C2003/0426—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects characterised by material distribution in cross section
    • E04C2003/0434—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects characterised by material distribution in cross section the open cross-section free of enclosed cavities
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04C—STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; BUILDING MATERIALS
    • E04C3/00—Structural elongated elements designed for load-supporting
    • E04C3/02—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces
    • E04C3/04—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal
    • E04C2003/0404—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects
    • E04C2003/0443—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects characterised by substantial shape of the cross-section
    • E04C2003/0452—H- or I-shaped
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04C—STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; BUILDING MATERIALS
    • E04C3/00—Structural elongated elements designed for load-supporting
    • E04C3/02—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces
    • E04C3/04—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal
    • E04C2003/0404—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects
    • E04C2003/0443—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects characterised by substantial shape of the cross-section
    • E04C2003/0473—U- or C-shaped
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04C—STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; BUILDING MATERIALS
    • E04C3/00—Structural elongated elements designed for load-supporting
    • E04C3/02—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces
    • E04C3/04—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal
    • E04C3/06—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal with substantially solid, i.e. unapertured, web

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to modular structures and, more particularly although not exclusively, to structures formed of assemblies of structural elements.
  • Structures in the form of rectangular parallelepiped provide the most convenient and efficient structures for both storage and transport.
  • An example of this is the ubiquitous use of shipping containers which, as well as their primary use in the transport of goods, have found many uses, from permanent storage facilities to temporary or even permanent human accommodation.
  • a disadvantage of shipping containers is that they are only produced in a relatively small number of standard configurations, are not always readily available and are expensive. Moreover, they are bulky and, due to the need for great strength, very heavy. A further disadvantage is that they must be transported on land by specially fitted vehicles. Transport vehicles for road use are limited in both length and breadth so that the largest shipping containers cannot exceed in particular the width limitation of these vehicles.
  • load bearing refers to a property of a structure able to support both vertical and transverse loads applied to it.
  • flat pack refers to a structure in disassembled form able to be arranged in a relatively flat configuration for storage and transport.
  • a rectangular parallelepiped modular structure size of the structure variable by selection of elements from a plurality of elements; the elements adapted for interconnection to form the structure; the modular structure collapsible for transport and storage; two or more of the modular structures providing stability and support for an overarching roof assembly.
  • the selection of elements includes longitudinal stringers and end cross members; pairs of the longitudinal stringers and pairs of the end cross members adapted for interconnection to form rectangular perimeter frames.
  • the selection of elements includes upright members; upright members adapted to extend between pairs of upper and lower rectangular perimeter frames.
  • the selection of elements includes diagonal bracing members.
  • the selection of elements includes intermediate cross members; the intermediate cross members adapted to extend between the pairs of longitudinal stringers of a rectangular perimeter frame.
  • the longitudinal stringers and the cross members comprise lengths of channel section; cross sections of both stringers and cross members being the same.
  • the lengths of channel section of the longitudinal stringers are provided with attachment plates at opposing outer ends of the channel sections; the attachment plates provided with bolt holes.
  • the length of channel section of the longitudinal stringer is further provided at opposing outer ends with projecting tabs at centre of and normal to an external surface of a web of the channel section.
  • bolt holes are provided in both the web and the flanges of the longitudinal stringers; the bolt holes providing for bolted connection with intermediate cross members and with upright members.
  • bolt holes are provided through a web and flanges of the channel sections of the end cross members proximate opposing outer ends of the cross members.
  • the pair of longitudinal stringers and the pair of cross members are assembled into the rectangular frames by bolts passing through the bolt holes of the end plates and the webs of the cross members.
  • the upright members include corner upright members and intermediate upright members; each of the comer and intermediate upright members comprising a length of rectangular hollow section (RHS) or other structural profile and a bracket at each outer end of the length of (RHS) or other structural profile.
  • RHS rectangular hollow section
  • corner upright members are provided at opposing outer ends with a corner bracket.
  • each corner bracket comprises an ‘L’ shaped main plate affixed at the respective outer ends of the corner upright member RHS or other structural profile; auxiliary plates normal to the ‘L’ shaped main plate affixed at an inner edge of each leg of the ‘L’ shaped main plate; the width of the leg equal in width to width of the RHS or other structural profile; each leg extending outwardly from adjacent sides of the RHS or other structural profile; each leg and each auxiliary plate provided with bolt holes.
  • each bracket of intermediate upright members and intermediate cross members comprises a length of main plate affixed at opposing outer ends the RHS or other structural profile; the main plate being of a length so as to extend outwardly from opposing sides of the RHS or other structural profile; auxiliary plates normal to the main plate affixed along edges of the main plate extending from the RHS or other structural profile; main plate and auxiliary plates provided with bolt holes.
  • configuration of the intermediate cross members is identical to that of intermediate uprights.
  • diagonal bracing elements include lengths of angle and lengths of flat material; each length of angle and length of flat material provided with bolt holes proximate outer ends.
  • the selection of elements further includes a plurality of equi-spaced floor joists; each floor joist comprising a length of channel section of a length to fit between opposing inward facing webs of the pair of stringers of a rectangular perimeter frame.
  • the plurality of floor joists are secured to the inward facing webs of the rectangular perimeter frame by joist securing brackets.
  • each joist securing bracket comprises an angle bracket; each web of the angle bracket including one or more bolt holes.
  • the joist provide support for panels of a floor; the panels fitting between inward facing webs of the longitudinal stringers and the end cross members of the lower rectangular perimeter frame.
  • the side edges of the overarching roof assembly is secured to longitudinal stringers of upper perimeter frames of parallel spaced apart modular structures.
  • the longitudinal stringers are outer longitudinal stringers of each of the perimeter frames.
  • the longitudinal stringers are inner longitudinal stringers of each of the perimeter frames.
  • a method of constructing a rectangular parallelepiped modular structure including the steps of: selecting a set of dimensions from available dimensions of height width and length of the modular structure, assembling a lower rectangular perimeter frame and an upper rectangular perimeter frame from pairs of stringers, pairs of end cross members and one or more intermediate cross members, separating the lower and upper rectangular perimeter frames by insertion of corner and intermediate upright members. arranging diagonal bracing elements between diagonally opposite brackets of corner and intermediate upright members and intermediate cross members.
  • stringers comprise lengths of channel section provided at each outer end with a bolting plate; the bolting plate provided with bolting holes.
  • end cross members comprise lengths of channel section provided at each outer end with bolting holes matching size and location of bolting holes of the bolting plates.
  • corner uprights, intermediate uprights and intermediate cross members comprise lengths of rectangular hollow section RHS or other structural profile outer ends of each length of RHS or other structural profile provided with brackets; the brackets provided with bolting holes.
  • each modular structure is variable by selection of elements from a plurality of elements; the elements adapted for interconnection to form the structure; the modular structure collapsible for transport and storage.
  • the selection of elements includes longitudinal stringers and end cross members; pairs of the longitudinal stringers and pairs of the end cross members adapted for interconnection to form lower and upper rectangular perimeter frames.
  • corner and intermediate uprights are interposed between the lower and upper rectangular perimeter frames to form the rectangular parallelepiped modular structure.
  • two or more modular structures are placed spaced apart and parallel one to the other; side edges of the overarching roof assembly attached to longitudinal stringers of the upper rectangular frame of the two or more modular structures to form a shelter between the modular structures.
  • a load-bearing rectangular parallelepiped structure assembled from structural elements; the structural elements available in a range of sizes and configurations; upright structural elements of the structure configured to support a roof assembly or assemblies when two or more of the parallelepiped structures are positioned in a spaced apart configuration.
  • a second, upper parallelepiped structure may be placed on a first lower parallelepiped structure; upright structural elements of the second upper structure supported on the upright structural elements of the first lower structure.
  • each upright structural elements is in the form of an “I” beam comprising a central web with flanking flanges.
  • each end of the upright structural element is provided with a mounting plate; the plates provided with pre-drilled holes allowing for mounting to a supporting surface or interconnection of a lower and upper parallelepiped structure.
  • the web and at least one of the flanges of the “I” beam are pre-drilled with holes to allow for bolted connections with other structural elements of the structure.
  • At least one flange of the “I” beam is further provided with projecting tabs; the tabs pre-drilled with holes for bolted connection of transverse horizontal upper and lower beams extending between pairs of adjacent “I” beams when these are positioned with opposing flanges.
  • Preferably longitudinal horizontal upper and lower beams are bolted to flanges of pairs of adjacent “I” beams.
  • transverse and longitudinal horizontal beams are formed as hot rolled parallel flanged channel section.
  • transverse and longitudinal horizontal purlins extend between adjacent pairs “I” beams; transverse purlins supported by brackets bolted to holes in the webs of the “I” beams and longitudinal purlins bolted to holes in the flanges of the “I” beams.
  • transverse and longitudinal horizontal purlins are formed of roll-formed channel section.
  • diagonal cross bracing is bolted to brackets provided on transverse horizontal beams and to flanges of the “I” beams.
  • brackets provided along inside surfaces of lower longitudinal horizontal beams to support transverse purlins as joist for support of flooring.
  • intermediate transverse and longitudinal purlins provide support for external wall sheeting.
  • a method of supporting a roof assembly extending between two load-bearing rectangular parallelepiped collapsible structures; each parallelepiped collapsible structure variable in dimensions and load-bearing capacities by selection of structural elements from a plurality of available structural elements; the roof assemblies supported by load-bearing columns at corners and intermediate side locations of the parallelepiped collapsible structure.
  • the load bearing columns are in the form of “I” beams provided at each outer end with a mounting plate.
  • Preferably adjacent pairs of “I” beams are interconnected by transverse and longitudinal upper and lower horizontal beams; the transverse and longitudinal upper and lower horizontal beams bolted to projecting pre-drilled tabs and holes provided at flanges of the “I” beams.
  • intermediate transverse and longitudinal purlins extend between the adjacent pairs of “I” beams; the purlins providing support for external sheeting.
  • purlins double as joists for support of flooring within the parallelepiped collapsible structure; the joists extending between brackets bolted to lower longitudinal horizontal beams.
  • the roof assemblies supported by load-bearing columns at corners and intermediate side locations of the parallelepiped load-bearing structure.
  • the load bearing columns are in the form of “I” beams provided at each outer end with a mounting plate.
  • Preferably adjacent pairs of “I” beams are interconnected by transverse and longitudinal upper and lower horizontal beams; the transverse and longitudinal upper and lower horizontal beams bolted to projecting pre-drilled tabs and holes provided at flanges of the “I” beams.
  • intermediate transverse and longitudinal purlins extend between the adjacent pairs of “I” beams; the purlins providing support for external sheeting.
  • purlins double as joists for support of flooring within the parallelepiped collapsible structure; the joists extending between brackets bolted to lower longitudinal horizontal beams.
  • the load bearing uprights support both a vertical and horizontal load component.
  • a load-bearing rectangular parallelepiped structure assembled from structural elements; the structural elements available in a range of sizes and configurations; upright structural elements of the structure configured to support a roof assembly or assemblies when two or more of the parallelepiped structures are positioned in a spaced apart configuration.
  • the structural elements Preferably support both a vertical and horizontal load component.
  • the structural elements are in the form of load bearing uprights.
  • the load bearing columns support a vertical load component and a horizontal load component.
  • each structure exerts both a vertical force component and a horizontal force component when supporting the roof assembly.
  • each structure exerts both a vertical force component and a horizontal force component when supporting the roof assembly.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of one configuration of a collapsible structure according to a first preferred embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 2 is a partial perspective view of a lower perimeter frame and a corner upright of the collapsible structure of figure 1 ;
  • Figure 2 A is a perspective view of one element of the collapsible structure of figure l ;
  • Figure 3 is a partial perspective view of a lower perimeter frame and an intermediate upright of the collapsible structure of figures 1 and 2;
  • Figures 4 to 6 are further perspective views of examples of different configurations of the collapsible structure of figures 1 to 3;
  • Figures 7 and 8 are perspective views of examples of shelter arrangement using two of the collapsible structures of figure 1 to 6;
  • Figure 9 is a perspective view of a series of shelters using three of the collapsible structures of figures 1 to 6;
  • Figure 10 is a perspective view of elements making up a perimeter frame in which end frames are preassembled according to a further preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 11 is a perspective view of a lower perimeter frame and flooring of another preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 12 is a perspective view of a further preferred embodiment of a multi-bay structure according to the invention.
  • Figure 13 is a detailed perspective view of a column element of the structure of figure 12,
  • Figure 14 is a view of a base structure of the multi-bay structure of figure 12.
  • the collapsible, load-bearing structure 10 is in the form of a rectangular parallelepiped modular structure which is variable in dimensions and configuration by a selection of elements from a plurality of available elements.
  • the arrangement shown in figure 1 is of a two-bay structure, but the modular arrangement with elements provided in a selection of different lengths allow the structure to be formed as multiple bays as shown for example in figures 4 to 6.
  • the selection of elements includes longitudinal stringers 12 and end cross members 14 which provide for interconnection to form a lower rectangular perimeter frame 16 and an upper rectangular perimeter frame 18.
  • the selection of elements further includes upright members adapted to extend between upper and lower perimeter frames.
  • Other of the selectable elements include one or more intermediate cross members 20 extending between pairs of longitudinal stringers 12 of the perimeter frames and diagonal bracing members.
  • Both the longitudinal stringers 12 and the end cross members 14 are formed of channel section, either in steel or aluminium, with both the stringers and cross members being of the same cross section.
  • the web 22 of the channel section of the longitudinal stringers 12 may be provided with a number of bolt holes to allow connection of intermediate cross members 20 at a selection of locations.
  • the flanges 24 of the channel section of the longitudinal stringers 12 may be provided with pairs of bolt holes to allow connection with upright members.
  • the lengths of channel section of the longitudinal stringers 12 are provided at opposing outer ends with attachment plates 26; each with a number of bolt holes.
  • the longitudinal stringers 12 are further provided at their outer ends with projecting tabs 28 normal to the external surface of the web of the channel section. These tabs also are provided with bolt holes.
  • both the web and the flanges of the longitudinal stringers are provided with bolt holes for connection of intermediate cross members and upright members.
  • the end cross members 14 are also provided with bolt holes through both the web and the flanges of the channel section as shown in figure 2 with the bolt holes through the web matching the bolt holes of the attachment plates 26 of the longitudinal stringers, allowing the longitudinal stringers and the end cross sections to be bolted together into the upper and lower perimeter frames of the structure 10.
  • Upright members of the structure include corner upright members 30 and intermediate upright members 32, each of which are formed of a length of rectangular hollow section (RHS) or other structural profile and with a bracket at each outer end of the RHS or other structural profile.
  • RHS rectangular hollow section
  • the bracket is a corner bracket 36 comprising an ‘L’ shaped main plate 38 with legs of the ‘L’ shaped plate of the same width as the width of the RHS or other structural profile. Each leg extends outwardly from adjacent sides of the RHS or other structural profile and is provided with a bolt hole.
  • the corner bracket 36 further includes auxiliary plates (similar to those of the intermediate upright shown in figure 3, but hidden in figure 2) normal to the ‘U shaped main plate affixed at an inner edge of each leg of the main plate 38, with these auxiliary plates also provided with bolt holes.
  • brackets 40 of the intermediate uprights 32 comprise a length of main plate 42 of a width equal to that of the RHS or other structural profile and of a length so as to extend outwardly from opposing sides of the RHS or other structural profile.
  • Auxiliary plates 44 normal to the main plate are affixed along edges of the main plate extending from the RHS or other structural profile with both the extensions of the main plate and the auxiliary plates provided with bolt holes.
  • the intermediate cross members 20 are of identical configuration to that of the intermediate uprights being also formed of the same RHS or other structural profile and having identical brackets at each outer end.
  • the diagonal bracing elements of the structure may be formed from lengths of flat 46 or of angle 48 or as in the examples shown, a combination of both.
  • the bracing elements are of a length to suit the diagonal separation between bolt holes of the various brackets of corner uprights 30, intermediate uprights 32 and intermediate cross members 20 as well as the tabs 28 projecting from the longitudinal stringers 12.
  • the structure may be provided with a plurality of equi-spaced floor joists
  • the floor joists 50 are secured to the inward facing webs by angle brackets 52 provided with bolt holes as shown in figure 3A.
  • the joists 50 provide support for panels of a floor with the panels 54 fitting between inward facing webs of the longitudinal stringers and end cross member of the lower rectangular perimeter frame.
  • the members of the modular structure of the present invention thus provide a method of constructing a rectangular parallelepiped 10 in a variety of length, width and height from a selection of elements.
  • the method includes the steps of:
  • the lower perimeter frame is firstly assembled by aligning ends of each of the end cross members with a suitably spaced apart pair of longitudinal stringers and bolting through the corresponding bolt holes in the attachment plates of the stringers and the bolt holes at the ends of the end cross members. Any desired intermediate cross members are added.
  • the upper perimeter frame is similarly assembled.
  • floor joists are installed between the longitudinal stringers of the now complete perimeter frame.
  • Floor panelling may also be best installed at this stage.
  • cross bracing elements are fitted. As shown in figures 1 and 4 to 6, cross bracing may be omitted from one of the side bays of the structure to allow for access to the interior of the structure if it is to be used for storage for example.
  • the structure may be enclosed by external cladding.
  • the structures are designed to be load bearing for the purpose of providing shelters, for example for plant and equipment, in the form of an overarching roof assembly 96 when two of the structures are positioned parallel one to the other and spaced apart commensurate with the span of the roof assembly.
  • the outer edges 98 of the roof assembly may be supported and fastened to outer edges of the supporting structures as shown in figures 7 and 8, or to the inward facing edges as in figure 9.
  • three or more structures can be arranged so as to form a “daisy chain” of shelter areas between each adjoining pair of structures ft is to support the weight of these roof assemblies and the lateral thrust applied by them, that the elements making up the structure are of a size considerably in excess of that required to form an enclosure of comparable size.
  • shelters in the drawings are in the form of arched roofs, skillion or other roof configurations may be employed.
  • the roof assemblies are laterally offset from the load- bearing rectangular parallelepiped collapsible structures.
  • each structure must support both a vertical force component and a horizontal force component when supporting the roof assembly.
  • the load bearing uprights support both a vertical and horizontal load component.
  • a load-bearing rectangular parallelepiped structure assembled from structural elements; the structural elements available in a range of sizes and configurations; upright structural elements of the structure configured to support a roof assembly or assemblies when two or more of the parallelepiped structures are positioned in a spaced apart configuration.
  • the structural elements support both a vertical and horizontal load component.
  • the structural elements are in the form of load bearing uprights.
  • the load bearing columns support a vertical load component and a horizontal load component.
  • each structure exerts both a vertical force component and a horizontal force component when supporting the roof assembly.
  • each structure exerts both a vertical force component and a horizontal force component when supporting the roof assembly.
  • end frames 80 could be assembled off-site by butt welding RHS or other structural profile corner uprights 82 between a pair of lower and upper cross members 84 and 86.
  • RHS butt welding
  • auxiliary plate 88 welded into the corner at each junction of cross member and RHS or other structural profile upright to provide for attachment of diagonal bracing of the end frame.
  • the longitudinal stringers 90 are likewise provided at their outer ends with auxiliary plates 92 to substitute for the auxiliary plate of the corner upright bracket, again to provide attachment points for diagonal bracing of the sides of the structure.
  • the stringers are provided with end plates with bolt holes matching those at the outer ends of the cross members for bolted attachment stringer to cross member.
  • the structure is completed by the addition of one or more intermediate uprights, intermediate cross members and diagonal bracing, all identical to those of the first preferred embodiment.
  • pairs of longitudinal stringers 12 and end cross members 14 could be bolted together to form respectively upper and lower frames (only the lower frame is shown in figure 11) of the structure.
  • Preparing particularly the lower base frame 94 off-site is advantageous if the structure is to be provided with floor panels 54, in which the lower base frame is pre-fitted with supporting joists 50 and, if desired, the floor panels 54.
  • all other elements, the corner and intermediate uprights, intermediate cross members and diagonal bracing elements remains as described for the first embodiment above.
  • the collapsible structure 200 is again in the form of a load-bearing rectangular parallelepiped collapsible structure which is variable in dimensions and configuration by selecting elements from a plurality of available elements.
  • Figure 13 shows a base module of the collapsible structure 200 to which further modules or sections can be added as shown in figure 12.
  • components may be made available in a selection of lengths and configurations. That is for example, while columns are standardised as “I” beams, these may be made available in different cross sections to allow for a range of load-bearing capacities.
  • each upright element or column 210 is identical. As shown in figure 13 each column 210 is provided at each outer end with a square mounting plate 211, 212 pre-drilled with holes. These allow the lower plates 211 of the columns to be bolted to a supporting surface for example and allows for the securing of structural elements of a roof assembly to the upper plates 212. In addition, the upper plates 212 permit two structures to be mounted one above the other and bolted together by means of bolting the lower plates of an upper structure to the upper plates of the lower.
  • the columns 210 are further prepared with holes 214 drilled through at least one side flange 216 and holes 218 through the central web 220 to allow for bolted connections with other- components of the structure.
  • the columns are also pre-prepared with projecting tabs 222 adjacent the lower and upper plates 221 and 222 also provided with pre-drilled holes. These various holes in the web and flange provide for bolted attachment of cross braces 224 and brackets (hidden under the purlins) to support intermediate longitudinal and transverse purlins 226.
  • these intermediate purlins 226 are formed of relatively light weight, roll- formed channel section, and provide support for external wall sheeting as shown in figure 12 if required.
  • Opposing columns 210 along each side of the structure 200 are further interconnected at their respective upper and lower ends by heavier lengths of longitudinal 228 and transverse horizontal beams 230, preferably in the form of hot rolled parallel flanged channel sections.
  • Transverse beams 230 between opposing side flanges of pairs of adjacent columns are bolted to the projecting tabs 222, while longitudinal beams or stringers 228 are bolted to the holes provided in the side flanges of the columns.
  • longitudinal and transverse horizontal beams While of the same cross section, may of course be provided in different lengths.
  • the longitudinal 228 and transverse beams 230 are also pre-drilled with holes both in their flanges and webs, both to allow bolting to the tabs 222 or flanges 216 of the columns 200, but also to support brackets, firstly cross brace brackets 232 for attachment of cross bracing 224 and secondly, floor joist brackets 234 as best seen in the enlarged inset of figure 12.
  • Purlins 226 may double as joists 227 to support sheets of flooring if the structure is to be used for storage and stored material needs to be off the ground. Joists are fixed in between lower longitudinal stringers 228 along opposite sides of the structure by these brackets 234. Another component, a roof purlin 236 similarly formed as a roll-formed channel, is affixed between successive upper transverse horizontal beams 230, to provide intermediate support for transverse roofing sheets where these are desired.
  • this embodiment of the structure is also fully scalable in that the module shown in figure 14 can be added to by further combinations of columns, longitudinal and transverse horizontal beams and bracing, to support any extent of overarching roof.
  • each of the elements of the structure that is the columns, purlins, horizontal beams, diagonal braces etc may be provided in sets of different, mutually compatible lengths to suit a selection of dimensions of height, width and depth of the modules of figure 12.
  • the modular structures 10 or 200 may be used singly or combined in pairs or multiple structures to provide support and stability for overarching roof assemblies 60 for forming shelters 62 as shown in the examples of figures 7 to 9.
  • Two or more modular structures may be placed in parallel, spaced-apart positions with an overarching roof assembly 60 extending, in the example of figure 7, from outer longitudinal stringers 12 (or outer columns 210) of the upper rectangular perimeter frame of each of the structures, or as shown in figure 8, from the imier longitudinal stringers or columns.
  • Multiple shelter areas can be provided by positioning a number of modular structures with a series of overarching roof assemblies between them as shown in figure 9 [00060] In each case, additional stability if required may be provided, either by sufficiently heavy material stored within the structures or by placing ballast, for example sandbags on the floors of the structures.
  • All elements may be readily transported in disassembled form to a site for erection without the need for special arrangements as required for example for oversized structures when transported by road.

Abstract

A rectangular parallelepiped modular structure; size of the structure variable by selection of elements from a plurality of elements; the elements adapted for interconnection to form the structure; the modular structure collapsible for transport and storage; two or more of the modular structures providing stability and support for an overarching roof assembly.

Description

COLLAPSIBLE STRUCTURAL SUPPORT AND STORAGE MODULE
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to modular structures and, more particularly although not exclusively, to structures formed of assemblies of structural elements.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Structures in the form of rectangular parallelepiped provide the most convenient and efficient structures for both storage and transport. An example of this is the ubiquitous use of shipping containers which, as well as their primary use in the transport of goods, have found many uses, from permanent storage facilities to temporary or even permanent human accommodation.
Due to their inherent strength shipping containers have also found use as supporting structures for larger assemblies.
[0003] A disadvantage of shipping containers is that they are only produced in a relatively small number of standard configurations, are not always readily available and are expensive. Moreover, they are bulky and, due to the need for great strength, very heavy. A further disadvantage is that they must be transported on land by specially fitted vehicles. Transport vehicles for road use are limited in both length and breadth so that the largest shipping containers cannot exceed in particular the width limitation of these vehicles.
[0004] It is an object of the present invention to address or at least ameliorate some of the above disadvantages.
Notes
[0005] The term “comprising” (and grammatical variations thereof) is used in this specification in the inclusive sense of “having” or “including”, and not in the exclusive sense of “consisting only of’.
[0006] The above discussion of the prior art in the Background of the invention, is not an admission that any information discussed therein is citable prior art or part of the common general knowledge of persons skilled in the art in any country.
[0007] In this specification the terms:
- “load bearing” refers to a property of a structure able to support both vertical and transverse loads applied to it.
- “flat pack” refers to a structure in disassembled form able to be arranged in a relatively flat configuration for storage and transport. SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0008] According to one broad form of the invention there is provided a rectangular parallelepiped modular structure; size of the structure variable by selection of elements from a plurality of elements; the elements adapted for interconnection to form the structure; the modular structure collapsible for transport and storage; two or more of the modular structures providing stability and support for an overarching roof assembly.
[0009] Preferably, the selection of elements includes longitudinal stringers and end cross members; pairs of the longitudinal stringers and pairs of the end cross members adapted for interconnection to form rectangular perimeter frames.
[00010] Preferably, the selection of elements includes upright members; upright members adapted to extend between pairs of upper and lower rectangular perimeter frames.
[00011] Preferably, the selection of elements includes diagonal bracing members.
[00012] Preferably, the selection of elements includes intermediate cross members; the intermediate cross members adapted to extend between the pairs of longitudinal stringers of a rectangular perimeter frame.
[00013] Preferably, the longitudinal stringers and the cross members comprise lengths of channel section; cross sections of both stringers and cross members being the same.
[00014] Preferably, the lengths of channel section of the longitudinal stringers are provided with attachment plates at opposing outer ends of the channel sections; the attachment plates provided with bolt holes.
[00015] Preferably, the length of channel section of the longitudinal stringer is further provided at opposing outer ends with projecting tabs at centre of and normal to an external surface of a web of the channel section.
[00016] Preferably, bolt holes are provided in both the web and the flanges of the longitudinal stringers; the bolt holes providing for bolted connection with intermediate cross members and with upright members.
[00017] Preferably, bolt holes are provided through a web and flanges of the channel sections of the end cross members proximate opposing outer ends of the cross members.
[00018] Preferably, the pair of longitudinal stringers and the pair of cross members are assembled into the rectangular frames by bolts passing through the bolt holes of the end plates and the webs of the cross members.
[00019] Preferably, the upright members include corner upright members and intermediate upright members; each of the comer and intermediate upright members comprising a length of rectangular hollow section (RHS) or other structural profile and a bracket at each outer end of the length of (RHS) or other structural profile.
[00020] Preferably, corner upright members are provided at opposing outer ends with a corner bracket.
[00021] Preferably, each corner bracket comprises an ‘L’ shaped main plate affixed at the respective outer ends of the corner upright member RHS or other structural profile; auxiliary plates normal to the ‘L’ shaped main plate affixed at an inner edge of each leg of the ‘L’ shaped main plate; the width of the leg equal in width to width of the RHS or other structural profile; each leg extending outwardly from adjacent sides of the RHS or other structural profile; each leg and each auxiliary plate provided with bolt holes.
[00022] Preferably, each bracket of intermediate upright members and intermediate cross members comprises a length of main plate affixed at opposing outer ends the RHS or other structural profile; the main plate being of a length so as to extend outwardly from opposing sides of the RHS or other structural profile; auxiliary plates normal to the main plate affixed along edges of the main plate extending from the RHS or other structural profile; main plate and auxiliary plates provided with bolt holes.
[00023] Preferably, configuration of the intermediate cross members is identical to that of intermediate uprights.
[00024] Preferably, diagonal bracing elements include lengths of angle and lengths of flat material; each length of angle and length of flat material provided with bolt holes proximate outer ends.
[00025] Preferably, the selection of elements further includes a plurality of equi-spaced floor joists; each floor joist comprising a length of channel section of a length to fit between opposing inward facing webs of the pair of stringers of a rectangular perimeter frame.
[00026] Preferably, the plurality of floor joists are secured to the inward facing webs of the rectangular perimeter frame by joist securing brackets.
[00027] Preferably, each joist securing bracket comprises an angle bracket; each web of the angle bracket including one or more bolt holes.
[00028] Preferably, the joist provide support for panels of a floor; the panels fitting between inward facing webs of the longitudinal stringers and the end cross members of the lower rectangular perimeter frame.
[00029] Preferably, the side edges of the overarching roof assembly is secured to longitudinal stringers of upper perimeter frames of parallel spaced apart modular structures. [00030] Preferably, the longitudinal stringers are outer longitudinal stringers of each of the perimeter frames.
[00031] Preferably, the longitudinal stringers are inner longitudinal stringers of each of the perimeter frames.
[00032] According to another broad form of the invention there is provided a method of constructing a rectangular parallelepiped modular structure; the method including the steps of: selecting a set of dimensions from available dimensions of height width and length of the modular structure, assembling a lower rectangular perimeter frame and an upper rectangular perimeter frame from pairs of stringers, pairs of end cross members and one or more intermediate cross members, separating the lower and upper rectangular perimeter frames by insertion of corner and intermediate upright members. arranging diagonal bracing elements between diagonally opposite brackets of corner and intermediate upright members and intermediate cross members.
[00033] Preferably, stringers comprise lengths of channel section provided at each outer end with a bolting plate; the bolting plate provided with bolting holes.
[00034] Preferably, end cross members comprise lengths of channel section provided at each outer end with bolting holes matching size and location of bolting holes of the bolting plates. [00035] Preferably, corner uprights, intermediate uprights and intermediate cross members comprise lengths of rectangular hollow section RHS or other structural profile outer ends of each length of RHS or other structural profile provided with brackets; the brackets provided with bolting holes.
[00036] According to another broad form of the invention there is provided a method of providing an arched shelter over an area by means of two or more rectangular parallelepiped modular structures and an overarching roof assembly; the modular structures providing support for one or more overarching roof assemblies extending between the two or more modular structures. [00037] Preferably, size of each modular structure is variable by selection of elements from a plurality of elements; the elements adapted for interconnection to form the structure; the modular structure collapsible for transport and storage.
[00038] Preferably, the selection of elements includes longitudinal stringers and end cross members; pairs of the longitudinal stringers and pairs of the end cross members adapted for interconnection to form lower and upper rectangular perimeter frames. [00039] Preferably, corner and intermediate uprights are interposed between the lower and upper rectangular perimeter frames to form the rectangular parallelepiped modular structure.
[00040] Preferably, two or more modular structures are placed spaced apart and parallel one to the other; side edges of the overarching roof assembly attached to longitudinal stringers of the upper rectangular frame of the two or more modular structures to form a shelter between the modular structures.
[00041] In a further broad form of the invention there is provided a load-bearing rectangular parallelepiped structure assembled from structural elements; the structural elements available in a range of sizes and configurations; upright structural elements of the structure configured to support a roof assembly or assemblies when two or more of the parallelepiped structures are positioned in a spaced apart configuration.
[00042] Preferably a second, upper parallelepiped structure may be placed on a first lower parallelepiped structure; upright structural elements of the second upper structure supported on the upright structural elements of the first lower structure.
[00043] Preferably each upright structural elements is in the form of an “I” beam comprising a central web with flanking flanges.
[00044] Preferably each end of the upright structural element is provided with a mounting plate; the plates provided with pre-drilled holes allowing for mounting to a supporting surface or interconnection of a lower and upper parallelepiped structure.
[00045] Preferably the web and at least one of the flanges of the “I” beam are pre-drilled with holes to allow for bolted connections with other structural elements of the structure.
[00046] Preferably at least one flange of the “I” beam is further provided with projecting tabs; the tabs pre-drilled with holes for bolted connection of transverse horizontal upper and lower beams extending between pairs of adjacent “I” beams when these are positioned with opposing flanges. [00047] Preferably longitudinal horizontal upper and lower beams are bolted to flanges of pairs of adjacent “I” beams.
[00048] Preferably the transverse and longitudinal horizontal beams are formed as hot rolled parallel flanged channel section.
[00049] Preferably intermediate transverse and longitudinal horizontal purlins extend between adjacent pairs “I” beams; transverse purlins supported by brackets bolted to holes in the webs of the “I” beams and longitudinal purlins bolted to holes in the flanges of the “I” beams.
[00050] Preferably the transverse and longitudinal horizontal purlins are formed of roll-formed channel section. [00051] Preferably diagonal cross bracing is bolted to brackets provided on transverse horizontal beams and to flanges of the “I” beams.
[00052] Preferably brackets provided along inside surfaces of lower longitudinal horizontal beams to support transverse purlins as joist for support of flooring.
[00053] Preferably intermediate transverse and longitudinal purlins provide support for external wall sheeting.
[00054] In yet a further broad form of invention there is provided a method of supporting a roof assembly extending between two load-bearing rectangular parallelepiped collapsible structures; each parallelepiped collapsible structure variable in dimensions and load-bearing capacities by selection of structural elements from a plurality of available structural elements; the roof assemblies supported by load-bearing columns at corners and intermediate side locations of the parallelepiped collapsible structure.
[00055] Preferably the load bearing columns are in the form of “I” beams provided at each outer end with a mounting plate.
[00056] Preferably adjacent pairs of “I” beams are interconnected by transverse and longitudinal upper and lower horizontal beams; the transverse and longitudinal upper and lower horizontal beams bolted to projecting pre-drilled tabs and holes provided at flanges of the “I” beams.
[00057] Preferably intermediate transverse and longitudinal purlins extend between the adjacent pairs of “I” beams; the purlins providing support for external sheeting.
[00058] Preferably purlins double as joists for support of flooring within the parallelepiped collapsible structure; the joists extending between brackets bolted to lower longitudinal horizontal beams.
[00059] In yet a further broad form of the invention there is provided a method of transporting to site rectangular parallelepiped load-bearing structures of a size exceeding structures transportable on a road transport vehicle; two or more of the load-bearing structures supporting one or more overarching roof assemblies; the method including the step of providing the structures as a collapsible load-bearing structures comprising elongate elements selectable from a plurality of elongate elements; the elongate elements including load bearing uprights.
[00060] Preferably the roof assemblies supported by load-bearing columns at corners and intermediate side locations of the parallelepiped load-bearing structure.
[00061] Preferably the load bearing columns are in the form of “I” beams provided at each outer end with a mounting plate. [00062] Preferably adjacent pairs of “I” beams are interconnected by transverse and longitudinal upper and lower horizontal beams; the transverse and longitudinal upper and lower horizontal beams bolted to projecting pre-drilled tabs and holes provided at flanges of the “I” beams.
[00063] Preferably intermediate transverse and longitudinal purlins extend between the adjacent pairs of “I” beams; the purlins providing support for external sheeting.
[00064] Preferably purlins double as joists for support of flooring within the parallelepiped collapsible structure; the joists extending between brackets bolted to lower longitudinal horizontal beams.
[00065] Thus there is provided a method of transporting to site rectangular parallelepiped load- bearing structures of a size exceeding structures transportable on a road transport vehicle; two or more of the load-bearing structures supporting one or more overarching roof assemblies; the method including the step of providing the structures as a collapsible load-bearing structures comprising elongate elements selectable from a plurality of elongate elements; the elongate elements including load bearing uprights.
[00066] Preferably the load bearing uprights support both a vertical and horizontal load component.
[00067] Further there is disclosed a load-bearing rectangular parallelepiped structure assembled from structural elements; the structural elements available in a range of sizes and configurations; upright structural elements of the structure configured to support a roof assembly or assemblies when two or more of the parallelepiped structures are positioned in a spaced apart configuration. [00068] Preferably the structural elements support both a vertical and horizontal load component.
[00069] Preferably the structural elements are in the form of load bearing uprights.
[00070] Also disclosed is a method of supporting a roof assembly extending between two load- bearing rectangular parallelepiped collapsible structures; each parallelepiped collapsible structure variable in dimensions and load-bearing capacities by selection of structural elements from a plurality of available structural elements; the roof assemblies supported by load-bearing columns at corners and intermediate side locations of the parallelepiped collapsible structure.
[00071] Preferably the load bearing columns support a vertical load component and a horizontal load component.
[00072] Preferably each structure exerts both a vertical force component and a horizontal force component when supporting the roof assembly.
[00073] Preferably each structure exerts both a vertical force component and a horizontal force component when supporting the roof assembly. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0001] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:
[0002] Figure 1 is a perspective view of one configuration of a collapsible structure according to a first preferred embodiment of the invention;
[0003] Figure 2 is a partial perspective view of a lower perimeter frame and a corner upright of the collapsible structure of figure 1 ;
[0004] Figure 2 A is a perspective view of one element of the collapsible structure of figure l ;
[0005] Figure 3 is a partial perspective view of a lower perimeter frame and an intermediate upright of the collapsible structure of figures 1 and 2;
[0006] Figures 4 to 6 are further perspective views of examples of different configurations of the collapsible structure of figures 1 to 3;
[0007] Figures 7 and 8 are perspective views of examples of shelter arrangement using two of the collapsible structures of figure 1 to 6;
[0008] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a series of shelters using three of the collapsible structures of figures 1 to 6;
[0009] Figure 10 is a perspective view of elements making up a perimeter frame in which end frames are preassembled according to a further preferred embodiment of the invention;
[00010] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a lower perimeter frame and flooring of another preferred embodiment of the invention.
[00011] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a further preferred embodiment of a multi-bay structure according to the invention,
[00012] Figure 13 is a detailed perspective view of a column element of the structure of figure 12,
[00013] Figure 14 is a view of a base structure of the multi-bay structure of figure 12.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS First Preferred Embodiment
[00014] With reference to figures 1 to 3, the collapsible, load-bearing structure 10 according to the invention, is in the form of a rectangular parallelepiped modular structure which is variable in dimensions and configuration by a selection of elements from a plurality of available elements. The arrangement shown in figure 1 is of a two-bay structure, but the modular arrangement with elements provided in a selection of different lengths allow the structure to be formed as multiple bays as shown for example in figures 4 to 6.
[00015] The selection of elements includes longitudinal stringers 12 and end cross members 14 which provide for interconnection to form a lower rectangular perimeter frame 16 and an upper rectangular perimeter frame 18. The selection of elements further includes upright members adapted to extend between upper and lower perimeter frames. Other of the selectable elements include one or more intermediate cross members 20 extending between pairs of longitudinal stringers 12 of the perimeter frames and diagonal bracing members.
[00016] Both the longitudinal stringers 12 and the end cross members 14 are formed of channel section, either in steel or aluminium, with both the stringers and cross members being of the same cross section. The web 22 of the channel section of the longitudinal stringers 12 may be provided with a number of bolt holes to allow connection of intermediate cross members 20 at a selection of locations.
[00017] Likewise, the flanges 24 of the channel section of the longitudinal stringers 12 may be provided with pairs of bolt holes to allow connection with upright members.
[00018] As best seen in figure 2A the lengths of channel section of the longitudinal stringers 12 are provided at opposing outer ends with attachment plates 26; each with a number of bolt holes. The longitudinal stringers 12 are further provided at their outer ends with projecting tabs 28 normal to the external surface of the web of the channel section. These tabs also are provided with bolt holes. As well both the web and the flanges of the longitudinal stringers are provided with bolt holes for connection of intermediate cross members and upright members.
[00019] The end cross members 14 are also provided with bolt holes through both the web and the flanges of the channel section as shown in figure 2 with the bolt holes through the web matching the bolt holes of the attachment plates 26 of the longitudinal stringers, allowing the longitudinal stringers and the end cross sections to be bolted together into the upper and lower perimeter frames of the structure 10.
[00020] Upright members of the structure include corner upright members 30 and intermediate upright members 32, each of which are formed of a length of rectangular hollow section (RHS) or other structural profile and with a bracket at each outer end of the RHS or other structural profile.
[00021] In the case of the corner upright 30, with reference to figure 2, the bracket is a corner bracket 36 comprising an ‘L’ shaped main plate 38 with legs of the ‘L’ shaped plate of the same width as the width of the RHS or other structural profile. Each leg extends outwardly from adjacent sides of the RHS or other structural profile and is provided with a bolt hole. The corner bracket 36 further includes auxiliary plates (similar to those of the intermediate upright shown in figure 3, but hidden in figure 2) normal to the ‘U shaped main plate affixed at an inner edge of each leg of the main plate 38, with these auxiliary plates also provided with bolt holes.
[00022] With reference now to figure 3 the brackets 40 of the intermediate uprights 32 comprise a length of main plate 42 of a width equal to that of the RHS or other structural profile and of a length so as to extend outwardly from opposing sides of the RHS or other structural profile. Auxiliary plates 44 normal to the main plate are affixed along edges of the main plate extending from the RHS or other structural profile with both the extensions of the main plate and the auxiliary plates provided with bolt holes.
[00023] As can be seen from figures 1 and 2 the intermediate cross members 20 are of identical configuration to that of the intermediate uprights being also formed of the same RHS or other structural profile and having identical brackets at each outer end.
[00024] As can also be seen from figures 1 and 2, the diagonal bracing elements of the structure may be formed from lengths of flat 46 or of angle 48 or as in the examples shown, a combination of both. In each case the bracing elements are of a length to suit the diagonal separation between bolt holes of the various brackets of corner uprights 30, intermediate uprights 32 and intermediate cross members 20 as well as the tabs 28 projecting from the longitudinal stringers 12.
[00025] Preferably, the structure may be provided with a plurality of equi-spaced floor joists
SO as shown in figure 1 , each formed of a length of channel section of lengths to fit between opposing inward facing webs of the pair of longitudinal stringers 12 of a lower rectangular perimeter frame 16. The floor joists 50 are secured to the inward facing webs by angle brackets 52 provided with bolt holes as shown in figure 3A. The joists 50 provide support for panels of a floor with the panels 54 fitting between inward facing webs of the longitudinal stringers and end cross member of the lower rectangular perimeter frame.
[00026] The members of the modular structure of the present invention thus provide a method of constructing a rectangular parallelepiped 10 in a variety of length, width and height from a selection of elements. The method includes the steps of:
- selecting a set of dimensions from available dimensions of height width and length of the modular structure, assembling a lower rectangular perimeter frame 16 and an upper rectangular perimeter frame 18 from pairs of stringers, pairs of end cross members and one or more intermediate cross members, separating the lower and upper rectangular perimeter frames by insertion of corner 30 and intermediate 32 upright members. arranging diagonal bracing elements between diagonally opposite brackets of corner and intermediate upright members and intermediate cross members [00027] The lower perimeter frame is firstly assembled by aligning ends of each of the end cross members with a suitably spaced apart pair of longitudinal stringers and bolting through the corresponding bolt holes in the attachment plates of the stringers and the bolt holes at the ends of the end cross members. Any desired intermediate cross members are added.
[00028] The upper perimeter frame is similarly assembled.
[00029] If a floor is to be provided, floor joists are installed between the longitudinal stringers of the now complete perimeter frame. Floor panelling may also be best installed at this stage.
[00030] Corner and intermediate uprights are now bolted to the longitudinal stringers of the lower perimeter frame, and the upper perimeter frame lifted into position onto these upright members and bolted to them.
[00031] Finally diagonal cross bracing elements are fitted. As shown in figures 1 and 4 to 6, cross bracing may be omitted from one of the side bays of the structure to allow for access to the interior of the structure if it is to be used for storage for example.
[00032] If desired, the structure may be enclosed by external cladding.
[00033] It will be appreciated that all the elements which combine to form the structure 10 are readily transportable and able to be compactly stored as a flat pack so that the size of the structure which may be erected at a site for use is not limited in the manner in which a preassembled structure such as a shipping container is.
[00034] Referring now to figures 7 to 9, the structures are designed to be load bearing for the purpose of providing shelters, for example for plant and equipment, in the form of an overarching roof assembly 96 when two of the structures are positioned parallel one to the other and spaced apart commensurate with the span of the roof assembly. In such an arrangement, the outer edges 98 of the roof assembly may be supported and fastened to outer edges of the supporting structures as shown in figures 7 and 8, or to the inward facing edges as in figure 9. As can also be seen in figure 9, three or more structures can be arranged so as to form a “daisy chain” of shelter areas between each adjoining pair of structures ft is to support the weight of these roof assemblies and the lateral thrust applied by them, that the elements making up the structure are of a size considerably in excess of that required to form an enclosure of comparable size. It will be appreciated that although examples shelters in the drawings are in the form of arched roofs, skillion or other roof configurations may be employed.
[00035] It will be observed that, in use, the roof assemblies are laterally offset from the load- bearing rectangular parallelepiped collapsible structures. Thus each structure must support both a vertical force component and a horizontal force component when supporting the roof assembly. [00036] Thus there is provided a method of transporting to site rectangular parallelepiped load-bearing structures of a size exceeding structures transportable on a road transport vehicle; two or more of the load-bearing structures supporting one or more overarching roof assemblies; the method including the step of providing the structures as a collapsible load-bearing structures comprising elongate elements selectable from a plurality of elongate elements; the elongate elements including load bearing uprights.
[00037] Preferably the load bearing uprights support both a vertical and horizontal load component.
[00038] Further there is disclosed a load-bearing rectangular parallelepiped structure assembled from structural elements; the structural elements available in a range of sizes and configurations; upright structural elements of the structure configured to support a roof assembly or assemblies when two or more of the parallelepiped structures are positioned in a spaced apart configuration.
[00039] Preferably the structural elements support both a vertical and horizontal load component.
[00040] Preferably the structural elements are in the form of load bearing uprights.
[00041] Also disclosed is a method of supporting a roof assembly extending between two load-bearing rectangular parallelepiped collapsible structures; each parallelepiped collapsible structure variable in dimensions and load-bearing capacities by selection of structural elements from a plurality of available structural elements; the roof assemblies supported by load-bearing columns at corners and intermediate side locations of the parallelepiped collapsible structure.
[00042] Preferably the load bearing columns support a vertical load component and a horizontal load component.
[00043] Preferably each structure exerts both a vertical force component and a horizontal force component when supporting the roof assembly.
[00044] Preferably each structure exerts both a vertical force component and a horizontal force component when supporting the roof assembly. Second Preferred Embodiment
[00045] In this alternative arrangement of a modular structure according to the invention, some sections of the parallelepiped 100 may be preassembled. For example, as shown in figure 10, end frames 80 could be assembled off-site by butt welding RHS or other structural profile corner uprights 82 between a pair of lower and upper cross members 84 and 86. In this arrangement there is no need for the ‘If shaped brackets of the corner uprights as described above but the end frames are just provided with an auxiliary plate 88 welded into the corner at each junction of cross member and RHS or other structural profile upright to provide for attachment of diagonal bracing of the end frame.
[00046] In this embodiment the longitudinal stringers 90 are likewise provided at their outer ends with auxiliary plates 92 to substitute for the auxiliary plate of the corner upright bracket, again to provide attachment points for diagonal bracing of the sides of the structure. As for the first preferred embodiment above, the stringers are provided with end plates with bolt holes matching those at the outer ends of the cross members for bolted attachment stringer to cross member. The structure is completed by the addition of one or more intermediate uprights, intermediate cross members and diagonal bracing, all identical to those of the first preferred embodiment.
[00047] In a further alternative arrangement with reference to figure 11 , pairs of longitudinal stringers 12 and end cross members 14 could be bolted together to form respectively upper and lower frames (only the lower frame is shown in figure 11) of the structure. Preparing particularly the lower base frame 94 off-site is advantageous if the structure is to be provided with floor panels 54, in which the lower base frame is pre-fitted with supporting joists 50 and, if desired, the floor panels 54. In this arrangement all other elements, the corner and intermediate uprights, intermediate cross members and diagonal bracing elements remains as described for the first embodiment above.
Third Preferred Embodiment
[00048] With reference to figures 12 to 14, the collapsible structure 200 according to this preferred embodiment of the invention, is again in the form of a load-bearing rectangular parallelepiped collapsible structure which is variable in dimensions and configuration by selecting elements from a plurality of available elements.
[00049] Figure 13 shows a base module of the collapsible structure 200 to which further modules or sections can be added as shown in figure 12. Although each of the components making up the base module and those which may be added to create a desired length of structure, components may be made available in a selection of lengths and configurations. That is for example, while columns are standardised as “I” beams, these may be made available in different cross sections to allow for a range of load-bearing capacities.
[00050] In this embodiment, each upright element or column 210, whether employed at a corner of the structure or at an intermediate side wall position, is identical. As shown in figure 13 each column 210 is provided at each outer end with a square mounting plate 211, 212 pre-drilled with holes. These allow the lower plates 211 of the columns to be bolted to a supporting surface for example and allows for the securing of structural elements of a roof assembly to the upper plates 212. In addition, the upper plates 212 permit two structures to be mounted one above the other and bolted together by means of bolting the lower plates of an upper structure to the upper plates of the lower.
[00051] The columns 210 are further prepared with holes 214 drilled through at least one side flange 216 and holes 218 through the central web 220 to allow for bolted connections with other- components of the structure. The columns are also pre-prepared with projecting tabs 222 adjacent the lower and upper plates 221 and 222 also provided with pre-drilled holes. These various holes in the web and flange provide for bolted attachment of cross braces 224 and brackets (hidden under the purlins) to support intermediate longitudinal and transverse purlins 226.
[00052] Preferably these intermediate purlins 226 are formed of relatively light weight, roll- formed channel section, and provide support for external wall sheeting as shown in figure 12 if required.
[00053] Opposing columns 210 along each side of the structure 200 are further interconnected at their respective upper and lower ends by heavier lengths of longitudinal 228 and transverse horizontal beams 230, preferably in the form of hot rolled parallel flanged channel sections. Transverse beams 230 between opposing side flanges of pairs of adjacent columns are bolted to the projecting tabs 222, while longitudinal beams or stringers 228 are bolted to the holes provided in the side flanges of the columns.
[00054] These longitudinal and transverse horizontal beams, while of the same cross section, may of course be provided in different lengths. The longitudinal 228 and transverse beams 230 are also pre-drilled with holes both in their flanges and webs, both to allow bolting to the tabs 222 or flanges 216 of the columns 200, but also to support brackets, firstly cross brace brackets 232 for attachment of cross bracing 224 and secondly, floor joist brackets 234 as best seen in the enlarged inset of figure 12.
[00055] Purlins 226 may double as joists 227 to support sheets of flooring if the structure is to be used for storage and stored material needs to be off the ground. Joists are fixed in between lower longitudinal stringers 228 along opposite sides of the structure by these brackets 234. Another component, a roof purlin 236 similarly formed as a roll-formed channel, is affixed between successive upper transverse horizontal beams 230, to provide intermediate support for transverse roofing sheets where these are desired.
[00056] It can be seen, in particular from the use of substantial “I” beams for the columns 210 that the load bearing parallelepiped of this embodiment is far stronger than the typical construction for an enclosure of comparable dimensions. This inherent load-bearing strength is demanded for the application of supporting large overarching roof assemblies such as depicted in figures 7 to 9.
[00057] It will be appreciated that this embodiment of the structure is also fully scalable in that the module shown in figure 14 can be added to by further combinations of columns, longitudinal and transverse horizontal beams and bracing, to support any extent of overarching roof. Moreover, each of the elements of the structure, that is the columns, purlins, horizontal beams, diagonal braces etc may be provided in sets of different, mutually compatible lengths to suit a selection of dimensions of height, width and depth of the modules of figure 12.
[00058] Because all the elements that make up the structure are essentially made up of just elongate elements, all that are required for even multiple bays such as shown in figure 13, are easily transportable in a “flat pack” form even though the assembled structure may be far larger than that which can be accommodated on a transport vehicle.
In Use - Industrial Applicability
[00059] The modular structures 10 or 200 may be used singly or combined in pairs or multiple structures to provide support and stability for overarching roof assemblies 60 for forming shelters 62 as shown in the examples of figures 7 to 9. Two or more modular structures may be placed in parallel, spaced-apart positions with an overarching roof assembly 60 extending, in the example of figure 7, from outer longitudinal stringers 12 (or outer columns 210) of the upper rectangular perimeter frame of each of the structures, or as shown in figure 8, from the imier longitudinal stringers or columns. Multiple shelter areas can be provided by positioning a number of modular structures with a series of overarching roof assemblies between them as shown in figure 9 [00060] In each case, additional stability if required may be provided, either by sufficiently heavy material stored within the structures or by placing ballast, for example sandbags on the floors of the structures.
[00061] All elements may be readily transported in disassembled form to a site for erection without the need for special arrangements as required for example for oversized structures when transported by road.

Claims

1. A load bearing rectangular parallelepiped modular structure; size of the structure variable by selection of elements from a plurality of elements; the elements adapted for interconnection to form the structure; the modular structure collapsible for transport and storage; two or more of the modular structures providing stability and support for an overarching roof assembly.
2. The modular structure of claim 1 wherein the selection of elements includes longitudinal stringers and end cross members; pairs of the longitudinal stringers and pairs of the end cross members adapted for interconnection to form rectangular perimeter frames.
3. The modular structure of claim 1 or 2 wherein the selection of elements includes upright members; upright members adapted to extend between pairs of upper and lower rectangular perimeter frames.
4. The modular structure of any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the selection of elements includes diagonal bracing members.
5. The modular structure of any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the selection of elements includes intermediate cross members; the intermediate cross members adapted to extend between the pairs of longitudinal stringers of a rectangular perimeter frame.
6. The modular structure of any one of claims 2 to 5 wherein the longitudinal stringers and the cross members comprise lengths of channel section; cross sections of both stringers and cross members being the same.
7. The modular structure of claim 6 wherein the lengths of channel section of the longitudinal stringers are provided with attachment plates at opposing outer ends of the channel sections; the attachment plates provided with bolt holes.
8. The modular structure of claim 7 wherein the length of channel section of the longitudinal stringer is further provided at opposing outer ends with projecting tabs at centre of and normal to an external surface of a web of the channel section.
9. The modular structure of claim 6 to 8 wherein bolt holes are provided in both the web and the flanges of the longitudinal stringers; the bolt holes providing for bolted connection with intermediate cross members and with upright members.
10. The modular structure of any one of claims 6 to 9 wherein bolt holes are provided through a web and flanges of the channel sections of the end cross members proximate opposing outer ends of the cross members.
11. The modular structure of any one of claims 7 to 10 wherein the pair of longitudinal stringers and the pair of cross members are assembled into the rectangular frames by bolts passing through the bolt holes of the end plates and the webs of the cross members.
12. The modular structure of any one of claims 3 to 11 wherein the upright members include corner upright members and intermediate upright members; each of the corner and intermediate upright members comprising a length of rectangular hollow section (RHS) or other structural profile and a bracket at each outer end of the length of RHS or other structural profile.
13. The modular structure of claim 12 wherein corner upright members are provided at opposing outer ends with a corner bracket.
14. The modular structure of claim 13 wherein each corner bracket comprises an ‘L’ shaped main plate affixed at the respective outer ends of the corner upright member RHS or other structural profile; auxiliary plates normal to the ‘L’ shaped main plate affixed at an inner edge of each leg of the ‘L’ shaped main plate; the width of the leg equal in width to width of the RHS or other structural profile; each leg extending outwardly from adjacent sides of the RHS or other structural profile; each leg and each auxiliary plate provided with bolt holes.
15. The modular structure of any one of claims 12 to 14 wherein each bracket of intermediate upright members and intermediate cross members comprises a length of main plate affixed at opposing outer ends the RHS or other structural profile; the main plate being of a length so as to extend outwardly from opposing sides of the RHS or other structural profile; auxiliary plates normal to the main plate affixed along edges of the main plate extending from the RHS; main plate and auxiliary plates provided with bolt holes.
16. The modular structure of claim 15 wherein configuration of the intermediate cross members is identical to that of intermediate uprights.
17. The modular structure of any one of claims 4 to 16 wherein diagonal bracing elements include lengths of angle and lengths of flat material; each length of angle and length of flat material provided with bolt holes proximate outer ends.
18. The modular structure of any previous claim wherein the selection of elements further includes a plurality of equi-spaced floor joists; each floor joist comprising a length of channel section of a length to fit between opposing inward facing webs of the pair of stringers of a rectangular perimeter frame.
19. The modular structure of claim 18 wherein the plurality of floor joists are secured to the inward facing webs of the rectangular perimeter frame by joist securing brackets.
20. The modular structure of claim 19 wherein each joist securing bracket comprises an angle bracket; each web of the angle bracket including one or more bolt holes.
21. The modular structure of claim 19 or 20 wherein the joist provide support for panels of a floor; the panels fitting between inward facing webs of the longitudinal stringers and the end cross members of the lower rectangular perimeter frame.
22. The modular structure of any previous claim wherein the side edges of the overarching roof assembly is secured to longitudinal stringers of upper perimeter frames of parallel spaced apart modular structures.
23. The modular structure of claim 22 wherein the longitudinal stringers are outer longitudinal stringers of each of the perimeter frames.
24. The modular structure of claim 22 wherein the longitudinal stringers are inner longitudinal stringers of each of the perimeter frames.
25. A method of constructing a rectangular parallelepiped modular structure; the method including the steps of: selecting a set of dimensions from available dimensions of height width and length of the modular structure, assembling a lower rectangular perimeter frame and an upper rectangular perimeter frame from pairs of stringers, pairs of end cross members and one or more intermediate cross members, separating the lower and upper rectangular perimeter frames by insertion of corner and intermediate upright members. arranging diagonal bracing elements between diagonally opposite brackets of corner and intermediate upright members and intermediate cross members.
26. The method of claim 25 stringers comprise lengths of channel section provided at each outer end with a bolting plate; the bolting plate provided with bolting holes.
27. The method of claim 25 or 26 wherein end cross members comprise lengths of channel section provided at each outer end with bolting holes matching size and location of bolting holes of the bolting plates.
28. The method of any one of claims 25 to 27 wherein corner uprights, intermediate uprights and intermediate cross members comprise lengths of rectangular hollow section (RHS) or other structural profile outer ends of each length of RHS or other structural profile provided with brackets; the brackets provided with bolting holes.
29. A method of providing a cover over an area by means of two or more rectangular parallelepiped modular structures and an overarching roof assembly; the modular structures providing support for one or more roof assemblies extending between the two or more modular structures.
30. The method of claim 29 wherein size of each modular structure is variable by selection of elements from a plurality of elements; the elements adapted for interconnection to form the structure; the modular structure collapsible for transport and storage.
31. The method of claim 29 wherein the selection of elements includes longitudinal stringers and end cross members; pairs of the longitudinal stringers and pairs of the end cross members adapted for interconnection to form lower and upper rectangular perimeter frames.
32. The method of any one of claims 29 to 31 wherein corner and intermediate uprights are interposed between the lower and upper rectangular perimeter frames to form the rectangular parallelepiped modular structure.
33. The method of any one of claims 29 to 32 wherein two or more modular structures are placed spaced apart and parallel one to the other; side edges of the overarching roof assembly attached to longitudinal stringers of the upper rectangular frame of the two or more modular structures to form a shelter between the modular structures.
34. A load-bearing rectangular parallelepiped structure assembled from structural elements; the structural elements available in a range of sizes and configurations; upright structural elements of the structure configured to support a roof assembly or assemblies when two or more of the parallelepiped structures are positioned in a spaced apart configuration.
35. The parallelepiped structure of claim 34 wherein a second, upper parallelepiped structure may be placed on a first lower parallelepiped structure; upright structural elements of the second upper structure supported on the upright structural elements of the first lower structure.
36. The parallelepiped structure of claim 34 wherein each upright structural elements is in the form of an “I” beam comprising a central web with flanking flanges.
37. The parallelepiped structure of any one of claims 34 to 36 wherein each end of the upright structural element is provided with a mounting plate; the plates provided with pre-drilled holes allowing for mounting to a supporting surface or interconnection of a lower and upper parallelepiped structure.
38. The parallelepiped structure of claim 36 or 37 wherein the web and at least one of the flanges of the “I” beam are pre-drilled with holes to allow for bolted connections with other structural elements of the structure.
39. The parallelepiped structure of any one of claims 36 to 38 wherein at least one flange of the “I” beam is further provided with projecting tabs; the tabs pre-drilled with holes for bolted connection of transverse horizontal upper and lower beams extending between pairs of adjacent “I” beams when these are positioned with opposing flanges.
40. The parallelepiped structure of any one of claims 36 to 39 wherein longitudinal horizontal upper and lower beams are bolted to flanges of pairs of adjacent “I” beams.
41. The parallelepiped structure of claim 39 or 40 wherein the transverse and longitudinal horizontal beams are formed as hot rolled parallel flanged channel section.
42. The parallelepiped structure of any previous claim wherein intermediate transverse and longitudinal horizontal purlins extend between adjacent pairs “I” beams; transverse purlins supported by brackets bolted to holes in the webs of the “I” beams and longitudinal purlins bolted to holes in the flanges of the “I” beams.
43. The parallelepiped structure of claim 42 wherein the transverse and longitudinal horizontal purlins are formed of roll-formed channel section.
44. The parallelepiped structure of any previous claim wherein diagonal cross bracing is bolted to brackets provided on transverse horizontal beams and to flanges of the “I” beams.
45. The parallelepiped structure of any one of claims 40 to 44 wherein brackets provided along inside surfaces of lower longitudinal horizontal beams to support transverse purlins as joist for support of flooring.
46. The parallelepiped structure of any one of claims 42 to 45 wherein intermediate transverse and longitudinal purlins provide support for external wall sheeting.
47. A method of supporting a roof assembly extending between two load-bearing rectangular parallelepiped collapsible structures; each parallelepiped collapsible structure variable in dimensions and load-bearing capacities by selection of structural elements from a plurality of available structural elements; the roof assemblies supported by load-bearing columns at corners and intermediate side locations of the parallelepiped collapsible structure.
48. The method of claim 47 wherein the load bearing columns are in the form of “I” beams provided at each outer end with a mounting plate.
49. The method of claim 48 wherein adjacent pairs of “I” beams are interconnected by transverse and longitudinal upper and lower horizontal beams; the transverse and longitudinal upper and lower horizontal beams bolted to projecting pre-drilled tabs and holes provided at flanges of the “I” beams.
50. The method of any one of claims 47 to 49 wherein intermediate transverse and longitudinal purlins extend between the adjacent pairs of “I” beams; the purlins providing support for external sheeting.
51. The method of any one of claims 47 to 50 wherein purlins double as joists for support of flooring within the parallelepiped collapsible structure; the joists extending between brackets bolted to lower longitudinal horizontal beams.
52. A method of transporting to site rectangular parallelepiped load-bearing structures of a size exceeding structures transportable on a road transport vehicle; two or more of the load-bearing structures supporting one or more overarching roof assemblies; the method including the step of providing the structures as a collapsible load-bearing structures comprising elongate elements selectable from a plurality of elongate elements; the elongate elements including load bearing uprights.
53. The method of claim 52 wherein the roof assemblies supported by load-bearing columns at corners and intermediate side locations of the parallelepiped load-bearing structure.
54. The method of claim 53 wherein the load bearing columns are in the form of “I” beams provided at each outer end with a mounting plate.
55. The method of claim 54 wherein adjacent pairs of “I” beams are interconnected by transverse and longitudinal upper and lower horizontal beams; the transverse and longitudinal upper and lower horizontal beams bolted to projecting pre-drilled tabs and holes provided at flanges of the “I” beams.
56. The method of any one of claims 54 to 56 wherein intermediate transverse and longitudinal purlins extend between the adjacent pairs of “I” beams; the purlins providing support for external sheeting.
57. The method of any one of claim 56 wherein purlins double as joists for support of flooring within the parallelepiped collapsible structure; the joists extending between brackets bolted to lower longitudinal horizontal beams.
58. A method of transporting to site rectangular parallelepiped load-bearing structures of a size exceeding structures transportable on a road transport vehicle; two or more of the load-bearing structures supporting one or more overarching roof assemblies; the method including the step of providing the structures as a collapsible load-bearing structures comprising elongate elements selectable from a plurality of elongate elements; the elongate elements including load bearing uprights.
59. The method of Claim 58 the load bearing uprights support both a vertical and horizontal load component.
60. A load-bearing rectangular parallelepiped structure assembled from structural elements; the structural elements available in a range of sizes and configurations; upright structural elements of the structure configured to support a roof assembly or assemblies when two or more of the parallelepiped structures are positioned in a spaced apart configuration.
61. The structure of Claim 60 wherein the structural elements support both a vertical and horizontal load component.
62. The structure of Claim 60 wherein the structural elements are in the form of load bearing uprights.
63. A method of supporting a roof assembly extending between two load-bearing rectangular parallelepiped collapsible structures; each parallelepiped collapsible structure variable in dimensions and load-bearing capacities by selection of structural elements from a plurality of available structural elements; the roof assemblies supported by load-bearing columns at corners and intermediate side locations of the parallelepiped collapsible structure.
64. The method of Claim 63 wherein the load bearing columns support a vertical load component and a horizontal load component.
65. The method of any previous claim wherein each structure exerts both a vertical force component and a horizontal force component when supporting the roof assembly.
66. The structure of any previous claim wherein each structure exerts both a vertical force component and a horizontal force component when supporting the roof assembly.
PCT/AU2022/050531 2021-05-31 2022-05-31 Collapsible structural support and storage module WO2022251908A1 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2022286147A AU2022286147A1 (en) 2021-05-31 2022-05-31 Collapsible structural support and storage module
GB2319848.4A GB2622996A (en) 2021-05-31 2022-05-31 Collapsible structural support and storage module

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2021203539A AU2021203539B1 (en) 2021-05-31 2021-05-31 Collapsible Structural Support for Storage Module
AU2021203539 2021-05-31

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2022251908A1 true WO2022251908A1 (en) 2022-12-08

Family

ID=84102528

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/AU2022/050531 WO2022251908A1 (en) 2021-05-31 2022-05-31 Collapsible structural support and storage module

Country Status (3)

Country Link
AU (2) AU2021203539B1 (en)
GB (1) GB2622996A (en)
WO (1) WO2022251908A1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN116575571A (en) * 2023-06-14 2023-08-11 深圳新科特智慧医疗科技有限公司 Modular operating room keel assembling structure

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB932610A (en) * 1959-10-12 1963-07-31 Gunther Lang Building structure and method of constructing the same
GB1569750A (en) * 1978-05-23 1980-06-18 Lloyd F Dry rack warehouse storage
US20140130438A1 (en) * 2011-12-01 2014-05-15 Bartley P. Durst Transportable modular system for covered isolation of assets

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB932610A (en) * 1959-10-12 1963-07-31 Gunther Lang Building structure and method of constructing the same
GB1569750A (en) * 1978-05-23 1980-06-18 Lloyd F Dry rack warehouse storage
US20140130438A1 (en) * 2011-12-01 2014-05-15 Bartley P. Durst Transportable modular system for covered isolation of assets

Non-Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
ANONYMOUS: "LARGE SPAN SHELTERS These big beast can offer an alternative to building", ALLSHELTER, 16 January 2017 (2017-01-16), pages 1 - 5, XP093013984, Retrieved from the Internet <URL:https://www.allshelter.com.au/product/large-span-shelters> [retrieved on 20220711] *
ANONYMOUS: "Monzon Protect It weather protection applications", MONZON SCAFFOLDING AND WEATHER PROTECTION SYSTEMS, 6 May 2021 (2021-05-06), pages 1 - 5, XP093013981, Retrieved from the Internet <URL:https://monzonscaffold.com/protect-it/applications> [retrieved on 20220711] *

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN116575571A (en) * 2023-06-14 2023-08-11 深圳新科特智慧医疗科技有限公司 Modular operating room keel assembling structure
CN116575571B (en) * 2023-06-14 2023-11-17 深圳新科特智慧医疗科技有限公司 Modular operating room keel assembling structure

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU2021203539B1 (en) 2022-11-24
GB202319848D0 (en) 2024-02-07
GB2622996A (en) 2024-04-03
AU2022286147A1 (en) 2024-01-18

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0710310B1 (en) Prefabricated building systems
US6318044B1 (en) Framing system for building construction
US20050210762A1 (en) Modular building, prefabricated volume-module and method for production of a modular building
WO2006122372A1 (en) Modular building frame
US20090223153A1 (en) Modular building capable of being readily assembled
US11619041B2 (en) Modular housing system
US20060053701A1 (en) Unfolding modular building system
US4201021A (en) Building frame construction
US7325362B1 (en) Steel roof truss system
WO2022251908A1 (en) Collapsible structural support and storage module
KR200187693Y1 (en) Prefabricating erection bent
US4003167A (en) Cabin construction
EP0929726B1 (en) Multiple occupancy accommodation
JP2001115559A (en) Container for container house and container house
AU2011202177C1 (en) Transportable Building
AU2007264409B2 (en) A building
US20230024343A1 (en) Modular structure
EA040985B1 (en) MODULAR BUILDING SYSTEM
CA3204937A1 (en) Enclosure component panel sections
AU2021348163A1 (en) Modular building unit and associated building and construction method
AU700025B2 (en) Prefabricated building systems
EP0500322B1 (en) Portable building modules
OA20153A (en) Modular housing system.
JPH0633509A (en) Assembling house
GB2413568A (en) Roof structure

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 22814606

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

DPE1 Request for preliminary examination filed after expiration of 19th month from priority date (pct application filed from 20040101)
ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 202319848

Country of ref document: GB

Kind code of ref document: A

Free format text: PCT FILING DATE = 20220531

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 806958

Country of ref document: NZ

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 2022286147

Country of ref document: AU

Ref document number: AU2022286147

Country of ref document: AU

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2022286147

Country of ref document: AU

Date of ref document: 20220531

Kind code of ref document: A