Multi-purpose mobile modular structure

Abstract

A modular building system is disclosed. The modular building includes a plurality of pre-fabricated joints having open-ended hollow arms extending orthoganally along at least two directional axes, as defined by a 3-dimensional rectangular coordinate system. The system further includes a plurality of pre-fabricated beams detachably insertable into the open-ends of the hollow arms of the joints and connectors removeably securing the beams in the hollow arms of the joints. The joints and beams are assembled to build a variety of modular grid-frame structures in accordance with pre-determined assembly plans.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The invention relates to a mobile modular building system that can be rapidly deployed to create usable space for different purposes. The invention also relates to all joints and connectors that are integral parts of the invention.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Modular structures have been used in various applications. Modular structures are usually designed to combine standard components in different combinations to create varied configurations.[0003]An example of modular structures is pre-fabricated or “pre-fab” housing. Pre-fabricated housing are usually manufactured in a remote location and then transported to the place of use for assembly. These homes are usually manufactured in a large facility into partially completed structures before being transported and assembled.[0004]This method of construction necessitates the use of a large facility during the manufacturing process because of the need to handle the large assemblies. Transportation to the ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0014]The present invention consists of a structure using a system of beams and joints to create a modular structure using a basic “C” frame unit that is expandable and reconfigurable. The use of a system which can be assembled only when necessary, instead of a partially or fully completed structure, means that the difficulties associated with manufacturing, handling, storage and transportation of modular structures are drastically reduced. The objective is to create a system that can be used as a permanent structure while retaining many of the advantages associated with lightweight mobile structures.

[0017]This grid-like structure also forms the basic framework for attaching internal and external panels. The panel consists of a larger rectangular main body panel mounted over a smaller rectangular frame. When mounted onto the structure, the overhang of the main body panel will just extend over the outer edges of the grid while the frame will fit snugly within the opening in the grid. The presence of the frame stiffens the panel and in the same manner, both the panel and the frame will also act as strengthening elements by adding rigidity to the structure.

[0018]Vertical wall panels are secured by mounting another panel on the opposing side of the grid such that both panels can be secured to each other by means of bolts and nuts inserted through the drilled holes in the panel. Horizontal roof panels can be attached in a similar manner. Floor panels can be secured by simply fitting the panels and frame into the grid. This system also allows the internal and external panels to be changed quickly and cost-effectively when the need arises. This means that the structures can be adapted for different purposes with a simple change of panels.

[0019]Employing this system of beams, joints and panels shortens the time required for assembly and disassembly by making the process extremely simple. If the structures need to be removed, the beams can be easily released and removed from the joints and the structure disassembled.

[0020]The joints not only act as connectors between the beams but also strengthen the structure at the weakest points within the assembled structure. Using different combinations of beams and joints, the configuration of the structure can also be changed easily.

[0021]The structure is also designed to be structurally strong enough to allow for the stacking of these structures up to a designated height provided the required support structures are also in place. As such, the structure is able to not only expand laterally but also vertically, providing great flexibility.

Problems solved by technology

Transportation to the site of use also poses challenges because the partially completed units will require vehicles that are built to accommodate the weight and size of the structures.

Similar problems also apply to the assembly process.

Heavy lifting equipment will be necessary to handle the partially completed structures during the assembly process because of the weight and size of some of these units or modules.

The problems that are associated with pre-fab buildings also apply to containers.

The size and weight of shipping containers necessitate the need for heavy equipment during the manufacturing, transportation and assembly process.

The configurations obtainable using shipping containers are however also limited by the fact that they come in standard sizes.

However, this also means that only certain configurations based on standard container sizes are possible.

This also means that, depending on the changes, the structure may no longer be modular.

Due to the fact that they are light weight structures, their lower structural strength means that they are generally not robust enough for use as permanent or large-scale housing solutions and only suitable as temporary structures.

Due to the temporary nature of the structures, the panels used for these structures are however usually removed and discarded after use.

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