FIELD OF DISCLOSURE
This disclosure is directed to building panels, structures including building panels, and methods of assembling structures including building panels. The building panels and structures are particularly useful in self-sustaining and smart buildings and houses.
BACKGROUND
There is an increasing global interest in self-sustaining and smart buildings and houses. However, fully self-sustaining and smart buildings and houses have not been realized due to an imbalance between energy generation and storage and energy usage. Thus, there is a need for improved self-sustaining and smart buildings and houses.
Described herein are building panels, methods of assembling building panels, structures including building panels, and methods of assembling structures including building panels. The building panels and structures are particularly useful in self-sustaining and smart buildings and houses.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
In one aspect, provided herein is a building panel comprising: a first building panel unit including a first outer wall and a first sidewall angularly offset from the first outer wall; and a second building panel unit including a second outer wall and a second sidewall depending from the second outer wall, the first sidewall of the first building panel unit being attached to the second sidewall of the second building panel unit, wherein the attachment of the first sidewall to the second sidewall applies a constant tension to the first outer wall and the second outer wall.
In another aspect, provided herein is a structure comprising: at least one building panel, the at least one building panel including: a first building panel unit including a first outer wall and a first sidewall angularly offset from the first outer wall; and a second building panel unit including a second outer wall and a second sidewall depending from the second outer wall, the first sidewall of the first building panel unit being attached to the second sidewall of the second building panel unit, wherein the attachment of the first sidewall to the second sidewall applies a constant tension to the first outer wall and the second outer wall.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of a building panel unit, in accordance with the disclosure.
FIG. 2 shows a side, perspective view of a portion of the building panel unit of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 shows a rear perspective view of the building panel unit of FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 shows a front perspective view of a building panel formed from a plurality of the building panel units of FIG. 1.
FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the building panel of FIG. 4, taken along line 5-5.
FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a structure formed from a plurality of the building panels of FIG. 4, in accordance with the disclosure.
FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an alternative structure formed from a plurality of the building panels of FIG. 4.
FIG. 8 shows an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the structure of FIG. 7.
FIG. 9 shows an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the structure of FIG. 7.
FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of an alternative structure formed from a plurality of the building panels of FIG. 4.
FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of a plurality of structures formed from the building panels of FIG. 4.
FIG. 12 shows a rear perspective view of a building panel formed from a plurality of building panel units and energy harvesting devices, in accordance with the disclosure.
FIG. 13 shows a front perspective view of an internal panel unit, in accordance with the disclosure.
FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the internal panel unit of FIG. 13, taken along line 14-14, in accordance with the disclosure.
FIG. 15 shows a cross-sectional side view of a portion of two internal panel units coupled to two building panel units of a structure, in accordance with the disclosure.
FIG. 16 shows a front perspective view of a support base for a structure, in accordance with the disclosure.
FIG. 17 shows a front view of a structure affixed to the support base of FIG. 16, in accordance with the disclosure.
Unless otherwise indicated, the drawings provided herein are meant to illustrate features of embodiments of the disclosure. These features are believed to be applicable in a wide variety of systems comprising one or more embodiments of the disclosure. As such, the drawings are not meant to include all conventional features known by those of ordinary skill in the art to be required for the practice of the embodiments disclosed herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
The present disclosure is directed to building panels, structures including building panels, and methods of assembling structures including building panels.
Although the building panels, structures, and methods described herein are described with respect to specific materials and/or shapes/configurations, the building panels, structures, and/or methods are applicable to any modular structure that is readily portable and capable of generating and/or harvesting energy to be self-sustaining or produce excess energy.
Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to building panels, structures including building panels and methods of assembling structures including building panels and, more particularly, to a building panels formed from a plurality of building panel units coupled to one another, and structures formed from a plurality of building panels, each formed form a plurality of coupled building panel units. To this end, and as described in greater detail below, the building panels, structures and methods described herein utilize single sized and/or geometry building panel units to form the structures that are capable of harvesting energy, as well as being easily assembled and portable.
By way of example and not of limitation, the building panels, structures including building panels, and methods of assembling structures described herein may be implemented to improve the shaping of an energy harvesting structure that collects energy and funnels it to a specialized energy harvester. For instance, multiple energy sources can be harvested in a hybrid fashion from the energy that the structure keeps out and/or is exposed to during operation. Additionally, the self-strutting, self-tensioning building panels forming structures allows for fractal distribution of light energy, while funneling wind forces at shear angles to generate vortexes for turbines (e.g., tulip turbines, vortex turbines). Furthermore, the building panels formed from building units discussed herein allow structures to be readily transportable once assembled. The use of a base support coupled to the structures formed from building panels further improves the portability and ease of setting up and leveling structures formed from self-tensioning building panels.
These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to FIGS. 1-17. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.
FIGS. 1-3 show various views of a building panel unit 100. As discussed herein, a plurality of building panel units 100 are coupled to one another to form building panels 124 (see, FIG. 4) and structures 138 (see, FIGS. 6, 7, 10, and 11). As shown in FIGS. 1-3, building panel unit 100 includes an outer wall 102, and an inner surface 104 positioned opposite outer wall 102. Outer wall 102 and inner surface 104 each have a triangle shaped profile. The triangle shaped profile for outer wall 102 and inner surface 104 of building panel unit 100 is more specifically an isosceles triangle, where sidewalls 106 include equal lengths (L1), and sidewall 108 includes a length (L2) distinct from the length (L1) of sidewall 106. Although shown as a triangle, it is understood that outer wall 102 and inner surface 104 of building panel unit 100 may have any shape including, but not limited to, regular polygons, irregular polygons, circles, squares, rectangles, pentagons, hexagons, heptagons, octagons, nonagons, decagons, hendecagons, dodecagons, and/or the like. As discussed herein, and based on the coupling of multiple building panel unit 100, outer wall 102 is under constant tension when forming building panels and/or structures from building panel units 100. In the exemplary embodiment, building panel unit 100 is formed as a single, unitary component.
Building panel unit 100 also includes chamfered sidewalls 110. Chamfered sidewalls 110 are formed integral with outer wall 102. More specially, chamfered sidewalls 110 is formed integral with and/or extends from outer wall 102 at each sidewall 106, 108 of building panel unit 100. Additionally, chamfered sidewalls 110 are angularly and/or planarly offset from each of outer wall 102 and inner surface 104. In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 2, chamfered sidewalls 110 of building panel unit 100 includes a coupling portion 112, and a chamfered edge portion 118 position, formed, and/or disposed between outer wall 102 and coupling portion 112. In the exemplary embodiment, chamfered sidewalls 110 also includes an extension portion 120 positioned, formed, and/or disposed between chamfered edge portion 118 and outer wall 102. Extension portion 120 is formed integrally with outer wall 102, is oriented substantially perpendicular to outer wall 102, and substantially parallel with coupling portion 112 of chamfered sidewalls 110. Additionally as shown, chamfered edge portion 118 extends between and connects coupling portion 112 and extension portion 120 within chamfered sidewalls 110.
Chamfered sidewalls 110 also includes a plurality of apertures 122 formed through coupling portion 112. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the plurality of apertures 122 are each defined within coupling portion 112 and are spaced a predetermined distance (D) apart from one another. As discussed herein, plurality of apertures 122 can receive a mechanical coupling component 130, as shown in FIG. 5, to couple two adjacent building panel unit 100. Additionally, and as discussed herein, chamfered sidewalls 110 are substantially malleable, bendable, and/or angularly adjustable with respect to outer wall 102 to aid in the coupling of two building panel units 100.
In an exemplary embodiment, building panel unit 100 is formed as a single, unitary component, and as such is formed from a single material. Building panel unit 100 is formed from any suitable material that can be under constant tension when used to form building panel(s) and/or structures, as discussed herein. Additionally, building panel unit 100 is formed from any suitable material that is capable of absorbing, harvesting, and/or generating energy (thermal, mechanical, etc.) from natural elements (e.g., sunlight, wind, etc.), and transferring that energy to various energy harvesting devices. In non-limiting examples, building panel unit 100 is formed flexible materials, recycled materials, metals, aluminum, alloys, canvas, resins, bioresins, chitin, and combinations thereof.
Although shown and discussed herein as being a single, unitary body, it is understood that building panel unit 100 can be formed from a plurality of components and/or portions coupled and/or affixed together. For example, chamfered sidewalls 110 can be separate from and affixed to a body including outer wall 102 and inner surface 104. In another non-limiting example, chamfered sidewalls 110 can also be formed from a plurality of distinct component and/or portions. That is, coupling portion 112 and chamfered edge portion 118 of chamfered sidewalls 110 can be formed from distinct components that are coupled and/or affixed to one another, and chamfered edge portion 118 can be coupled and/or affixed to a body including outer wall 102 and inner surface 104. In the exemplary embodiment where chamfered sidewalls 110 and the body including outer wall 102 and inner surface 104 are formed as distinct components, it is understood that each component can be formed from a distinct material. For example, chamfered sidewalls 110 can be formed from a metal or metal alloy, and the body including outer wall 102/inner surface 104 can be formed from tempered glass to create a window (see, FIG. 6).
FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of a building panel 124. Building panel 124 is formed from at least two building panel units 100 coupled to one another. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 4, building panel 124 includes four (4) building panel units 100, where each building panel unit 100 is coupled, attached, and/or affixed to two adjacent building panel units 100. The building panel units 100 forming building panel 124 are each identical and are the same building panel unit 100 of building panel unit 100, shown in FIGS. 1-3. In the example of FIG. 4, similar sized sidewalls 106, 108 of each building panel unit 100 are coupled when forming building panel 124. More specifically, sidewalls 106 of adjacent building panel units 100 are joined, connected, and/or coupled to form building panel 124 from the plurality of building panel units 100. Sidewall 108 for each building panel unit 100 is exposed and/or uncoupled in the exemplary building panel 124 shown in FIG. 4. As discussed herein, different configurations for building panels 124 can include more or less building panel units 100 than the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 4, as well as include distinct sidewalls 106, 108 of building panel units 100 being coupled together.
The plurality of building panel units 100 forming building panel 124 are coupled to one another, such that the perimeter of building panel 124 includes a two-dimensional shape. In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 4, the shape of building panel 124 is a two-dimensional square, where sidewall 108 of each of the four-building panel unit 100 is exposed, uncoupled, and/or form an outer perimeter of building panel 124. Although shown as a square, it is understood that building panel 124 can include any suitable shaped including, but not limited to, regular polygons, irregular polygons, circles, triangles, rectangles, pentagons, hexagons, heptagons, octagons, nonagons, decagons, hendecagons, dodecagons, and/or the like. The shape of building panel 124 is dependent upon, at least in part, a portion of a structure (see, FIG. 6) building panel 124 is used to form.
Additionally, and based at least in part on the shape and/or number of each building panel unit 100 coupled to form building panel 124, building panel 124 can also include a three-dimensional shape or geometry. In the example shown in FIG. 4, building panel 124 is shaped as an outwardly extending pyramid. In other embodiments, building panel 124 can include a concave three-dimensional geometry, or any other suitable three-dimensional geometry including, but not limited to, hemispherical polyhedrons, geodesic polyhedrons, regular polyhedrons, irregular polyhedrons, rhombicuboctahedrons, stellations, and/or the like. As discussed herein, the three-dimensional shape of building panels 124 determines a shape and/or configuration of a structure formed from building panel(s) 124.
FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional side view of two building panel units 100 coupled to one another taken along line 5-5 in FIG. 4. As shown in the non-limiting example, coupling portions 112 of chamfered sidewalls 110 for each building panel unit 100 are positioned adjacent one another for coupling two distinct building panel units 100. More specifically, coupling portions 112 of chamfered sidewalls 110 for each building panel unit 100 are positioned directly adjacent one another, are substantially parallel with respect to one another, and/or a bottom edge of coupling portion 112 for each building panel unit 100 are planar aligned with one another. Additionally, apertures 122 formed in each coupling portion 112 of chamfered sidewalls 110 for each building panel unit 100 are also concentrically aligned.
To aid in the coupling and/or positioning coupling portions 112 directly adjacent one another, chamfered edge portion 118 of chamfered sidewalls 110 for each building panel unit 100 are angled relative to outer wall 102 at a predetermined orientation and/or angle. As discussed herein, chamfered sidewalls 110 of each building panel unit 100 are angularly offset from outer wall 102 (shown in FIG. 1). In an exemplary embodiment, the angle in which chamfered sidewalls 110 are offset, and more specifically the angular offset of chamfered edge portion 118 of chamfered sidewalls 110, is dependent upon, at least in part, the number of building panel units 100 forming building panel 124, the two-dimensional shape of building panel 124, and/or the three-dimensional geometry of building panel 124. In a non-limiting example, each building panel unit 100 forming building panel 124 is manufactured to include the predetermined angular offset of chamfered sidewalls 110 to form the desired two-dimensional shape/three-dimensional geometry of building panel 124. In another non-limiting example, chamfered sidewalls 110 of building panel unit 100 can be substantially malleable, bendable, and/or angularly adjustable, such that the angular offset of chamfered edge portion 118 of chamfered sidewalls 110 for each building panel unit 100 is adjusted to a desire angle or configuration during and/or after coupling building panel units 100 to form building panel 124.
Building panel 124 can also include a gasket 126. Gasket 126 is positioned between two adjacent, coupled building panel units 100. More specifically, and as shown in FIG. 5, gasket 126 is positioned directly between, contacts, and/or is sandwiched by coupling portions 112 for each building panel unit 100 coupled to one another. In an exemplary embodiment, gasket 126 can extend the entire length of the respective coupling portions 112 of chamfered sidewalls 110 for building panel unit 100 forming building panel 124. In this exemplary embodiment, gasket 126 can also include a plurality of holes 128 that correspond to, are aligned with, and/or are concentric with plurality of apertures 122 formed through coupling portion 112 of chamfered sidewalls 110 for each building panel unit 100. In another non-limiting example, gasket 126 can be segmented and/or formed from a plurality of distinct segments positioned between coupling portions 112 of adjacent and coupled building panel units 100 forming building panel 124. Gasket 126 can be formed from any suitable material that provides a seal between two adjacent and coupled building panel units 100, provides malleable cushion between the two building panel units 100 to protect chamfered sidewalls 110 from damage, and/or to allow give or movement between two building panel units 100 when constructing building panel 124. In non-limiting examples, gasket 126 can be formed from a material including, but not limited to, polymers, foam, metal, organic material, or the like.
As shown in FIG. 5, building panel units 100 are coupled using a mechanical coupling component 130 (hereafter, “coupling component 130”). More specifically, coupling component 130 can extend through concentrically aligned apertures 122 formed in coupling portion 112 for each building panel unit 100 to couple the two building panel units 100 to one another. In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 5, coupling component 130 is formed as a threaded bolt and nut combination. In the non-limiting example, the bolt extends through the plurality of apertures 122 formed in each coupling portion 112 for building panel units 100 (and gasket 126), and the nut secures the bolt at a desired tension to couple building panel units 100 to one another. In other non-limiting examples, coupling component 130 can be formed from any other suitable mechanical coupling component or combination including, but not limited to, screws, nails, pins, fasteners, and any other coupling component that can releasably couple building panel units 100 to one another. Alternatively, coupling component 130 can be formed from any suitable substantially permanent coupling component or coupling techniques including, but not limited to, adhesives, epoxies, silicones, rivets, welding, brazing, and any other coupling component/technique that can affix building panel units 100 to one another. When coupled to one another to form building panel 124, the mechanical coupling components 130 collectively apply opposed outward forces on each building panel unit, such that each building panel unit 100, and more specifically outer wall 102 of building panel unit 100, are under constant tension.
To support the coupling of building panel units 100 and/or to encapsulate the seam formed between two distinct building panel units 100, building panel 124 can also include bumper 132. Bumper 132 is positioned and/or substantially covers an edge of chamfered sidewalls 110 for coupled building panel units 100. More specifically, and as shown in FIG. 5, bumper 132 covers an edge of coupling portion 112 of chamfered sidewalls 110 for each coupled building panel unit 100, as well as an edge of gasket 126 positioned between coupling portions 112. Bumper 132 can aid in the coupling of building panel units 100 by providing a compressive force on coupling portions 112. Additionally, or alternatively, bumper 132 can encapsulate the edges of coupling portions 112 and gasket 126 to prevent exposure of the coupled parts, protect users of building panel 124 from the edges of the coupled parts, and/or provide a more aesthetic look for building panel 124. Bumper 132 is formed from any suitable material including, but not limited to, polymers, silicones, foam, memory alloys, metals, and the like.
Two adjacent and coupled building panel units 100 of building panel 124 also form an open recess 134 in building panel 124. In the example of FIG. 5, recess 134 is formed between and/or defined by portions of chamfered sidewalls 110 for each building panel unit 100. Specifically, recess 134 is formed between and/or defined by chamfered edge portions 118 of chamfered sidewalls 110 for each building panel unit 100, extension portion 120 of chamfered sidewalls 110, and gasket 126, respectively. Recess 134 can also define a separation or space between two adjacent and coupled building panel units 100, above and/or adjacent coupling portion 112 of chamfered sidewalls 110. In a non-limiting example, a bonding compound 136 (shown in phantom) can be disposed within recess 134 of plurality of apertures 122. Bonding compound 136 can be disposed within recess 134 to further strengthen the coupling and/or connection between two adjacent and coupled building panel units 100 forming building panel 124. In the exemplary embodiment, bonding compound 136 can be formed from a structural or high-tensile strength silicone, that is piped into and substantially fill recess 134. Additionally, or alternatively, wires, hardware, conduits, and/or pipes utilized within a structure and/or utilized by components of the structure (e.g., energy harvesting device) can be positioned and/or disposed within recess 134. Positioning external structures such as wires, hardware, conduits, and/or pipes within recess 134 allows for such external structures to be externally accessible without covering or otherwise obstructing the outer wall 102.
FIGS. 6 and 7 show perspective views of structures 138 formed from building panel units 100/plurality of building panels 124. Structure 138 is formed from at least one building panel 124 including at least two building panel units 100 coupled to one another. In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 6, structure 138 can be formed from a plurality of building panel units 100 and/or a plurality of building panel 124 coupled to one another. More specifically, structure 138 shown in FIG. 6 is formed from twenty-three (23) building panels 124, where each building panel 124 is formed from and/or including four (4) building panel units 100, as similarly discussed herein with respect to FIG. 4. In the exemplary embodiment, each building panel 124 is coupled to an adjacent building panel 124 by coupling sidewalls 108 of building panel units 100 forming each building panel 124. Sidewalls 108 of building panel units 100 are coupled similarly as discussed herein with respect to sidewalls 106 (see, FIG. 5). For example, sidewalls 108 of each building panel unit 100 forming building panel 124 include chamfered sidewalls 110, which can be coupled to distinct chamfered sidewalls 110 of a distinct building panel unit 100 forming a distinct building panel 124. As similarly discussed herein with respect to FIG. 5, each building panel 124 can be coupled to an adjacent building panel 124 using one or more coupling component(s) 130. Once each building panel 124 is coupled together to form structure 138 each building panel unit 100 forming building panels 124/structure 138 are under constant tension as a result of the process and techniques for forming structure 138.
Structure 138 includes a predetermined shape or configuration based on characteristics of building panel units 100 and building panel 124. For example, and based on, at least in part, the two-dimensional shape of outer wall 102 of each building panel unit 100, the number of building panel units 100 forming building panel 124, the two-dimensional shape of building panel 124, the three-dimensional geometry of building panel 124, and/or the angular orientation or offset of each chamfered sidewall 110 coupling distinct building panels 124, structure 138 includes a predetermined three-dimensional shape or configuration. In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 6, structure 138 is formed as an irregular polyhedron. In other non-limiting examples, structure 138 can formed as and/or include a three-dimensional configuration including, but not limited to, hemispherical polyhedrons, geodesic polyhedrons, regular polyhedrons, rhombicuboctahedrons, stellation, and the like.
Additionally as discussed herein, the angle in which distinct building panels 124 are oriented with respect to one another is dependent, at least in part, on the angular offset of chamfered sidewalls 110 coupling the distinct building panels 124. For example, building panels 124A, 124B form a portion of a linear side of structure 138, and building panel 124C forms a portion of a curved endwall of structure 138. As shown in FIG. 6, building panel 124B is positioned between and coupled to both building panel 124A and building panel 124C. To maintain a linear side of structure 138, the angular offset of chamfered sidewalls 110 coupling building panel 124A and building panel 124B includes a first angle or orientation, such that building panel 124A and building panel 124B are oriented substantially linear to one another. Distinct from the two building panels 124A, 124B forming the linear side of structure 138, building panel 124C is oriented at an angle from and/or with respect to building panels 124A, 124B. To achieve the desired angle of building panel 124C, chamfered sidewalls 110 coupling building panel 124B and building panel 124C includes a second angle or orientation that is distinct from the first angle or orientation of chamfered sidewalls 110 coupling building panel 124A and building panel 124B. As discussed herein, each building panel unit 100 forming building panels 124A, 124B, 124C is manufactured to include the predetermined angular offset of chamfered sidewalls 110, or alternatively chamfered sidewalls 110 is adjusted to a desire angle or configuration during and/or after coupling building panels 124A, 124B, 124C to form structure 138.
In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 6, structure 138 also includes a plurality of window openings or windows 140 (hereafter, “window 140”). The number of windows 140 included in structure 138 can be dependent, at least in part on, the two-dimensional shape of outer wall 102 of each building panel unit 100, the number of building panel units 100 forming building panel 124, the two-dimensional shape of building panel 124, the three-dimensional geometry of building panel 124, and/or the angular orientation or offset of each chamfered sidewall 110 coupling distinct building panels 124. As shown in FIG. 6, structure 138 includes four (4) windows 140. In the exemplary embodiment, windows 140 include a dimension distinct from building panel units 100 forming building panel 124/structure 138. That is, windows 140 are defined by sidewalls 108 of three building panel units 100 forming three adjacent building panel 124. As such, the two-dimensional shape for windows 140 can include an equilateral triangle. In other non-limiting examples (see, FIGS. 7 and 9), structure 138 can include stellations or “dormers,” such that windows 140 include a two-dimensional shape substantially similar to the two-dimensional shape of building panel units 100 forming building panel 124/structure 138. Windows 140 can be covered with any suitable transparent or translucent material (e.g., tempered glass, plexiglass, etc.) to allow at least a portion of light to shine therethrough. The material used to form windows 140 and/or that covers windows 140 can be affixed or coupled to adjacent building panels 124 using any suitable coupling components and/or techniques. For example, coupling sidewall components, similar to chamfered sidewalls 110 discussed herein, can be affixed to the edges of the material forming windows 140 in order to couple windows 140 to adjacent building panels 124. In another example, bonding compound 136, similar to that discussed herein with respect to FIG. 5, can be used to couple and/or affix windows 140 within structure 138.
FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of structure 138 formed from building panel units 100/plurality of building panels 124. It is understood that similarly numbered and/or named components may function in a substantially similar fashion. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity.
As shown in FIG. 7, structure 138 can include an opening 142. Opening 142 formed in structure 138 is a predefined gap, space, and/or omission of building panel unit 100/building panel(s) 124 within structure 138. In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 7, opening 142 is the size of a single building panel 124 formed from a plurality of building panel units 100, as similarly discussed herein. Opening 142 of structure 138 can be utilized in various ways for the function and/or operation of structure 138. For example, opening 142 of structure 138 can form an ingress/egress for structure 138, where opening 142 includes a door 144 (shown in phantom) and/or defines a door frame for door 144 for structure 138. As shown in FIG. 7, door 144 can include a hinged door. In other non-limiting examples, door 144 can include a garage door, pocket doors, bi-fold/French doors, or any other suitable movable barrier to allow access to the interior of structure 138. Similar to windows 140 (see, FIG. 6), door 144 can be affixed or coupled to adjacent building panels 124 using any suitable coupling components and/or techniques. For example, coupling sidewall components, similar to chamfered sidewalls 110 discussed herein, can be affixed to the edges of door 144, in order to couple door 144 within opening 142 to adjacent building panels 124. In another example, bonding compound 136 (see, FIG. 5), can be used to couple and/or affix door 144 within opening 142 of structure 138. In other non-limiting examples (not shown) opening 142 can form vents and/or ducts for structure 138, or alternatively, vents and/or ducts can be formed in and/or through building panel unit(s) 100 forming building panels 124, as discussed herein.
Structure 138 can also include a stellation assembly 146. In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 7, structure 138 can include four (4) stellation assemblies 146, including stellation assembly 146 positioned directly above opening 142 in structure 138. Each stellation assembly 146 includes and/or is formed from three (3) building panel units 100. That is, stellation assembly 146 is formed from the same building panel units 100 used to form building panel 124, as discussed herein. In the exemplary embodiment, stellation assembly 146 includes two “peak” building panel units 100A, 100B, and a “front” building panel unit 100C. Similar to building panel 124, the three building panel units 100A, 100B, 100C are coupled to one another via sidewalls 106, and can be coupled to distinct building panels 124 via sidewalls 108. Front building panel unit 100C of stellation assembly 146 can also include and/or form windows 140 for structure 138. The inclusion of stellation assembly 146 in structure 138 allows structure 138 to be formed completely from a plurality of building panel units 100, where building panel units 100 all include a similar dimension and/or shaped.
In the non-limiting example of FIG. 7, structure 138 also includes at least one energy harvesting device 148. Energy harvesting device 148 is formed from any suitable device, component, and/or system that is capable of absorbing, harvesting, and/or generating energy (thermal, mechanical, etc.) from natural elements (e.g., sunlight, wind, etc.). In the example shown in FIG. 7, energy harvesting device 148 can include one or more solar panels 150. Solar panels 150 can be positioned over and/or coupled directly to outer wall 102 of building panel units 100 forming building panels 124/structure 138. That is, in an exemplary embodiment, solar panels 150 are distinct from and coupled to building panel units 100 used to form building panel 124/structure 138. Alternatively, solar panels 150 can be formed integral with building panel unit 100 or solar panel 150 can include a two-dimensional shape that is substantially identical to building panel unit 100. In this exemplary embodiment, solar panels 150 include substantially identical shapes as building panel unit building panel unit 100 can replace one or more building panel units 100 forming building panel 124. As such, some building panels 124 forming structure 138 include both building panel units 100 and solar panels 150. Solar panels 150 are formed from any suitable device, component, and/or system that can harvest, absorb, and/or convert solar energy to electricity, that can utilized by electronic components within structure 138 (e.g., light fixtures) and/or stored in a energy storage unit (see, FIG. 12) of structure 138. In other non-limiting examples, energy harvesting device 148 can be formed as photovoltaic films, hydroelectric generators, Peltier devices, or the like.
Energy harvesting device 148 of structure 138 can also include a wind turbine 152. As shown in FIG. 7, wind turbine 152 is coupled to structure 138. More specifically, wind turbine 152 is coupled, affixed, and/or fastened to structure 138 at a junction and/or between at least two building panel units 100 of structure 138. As shown in the non-limiting example of FIG. 7 and enlarged perspective view of structure 138 and wind turbine 152 shown in FIG. 8, wind turbine 152 can be coupled to structure 138 at an apex of building panel 124 and/or at a junction where the four (4) building panel units 100 forming building panel 124 meet. As shown in the exemplary embodiment (e.g., FIG. 8), a mounting assembly 154 of wind turbine 152 is coupled to a portion of outer wall 102 for each of the building panel units 100/solar panels 150 forming building panel 124 of structure 138. Mounting assembly 154 for wind turbine 152 can also be mechanically coupled to and/or interact with each recess 134 formed between distinct building panel units 100 to coupled and/or secure wind turbine 152 to structure 138. Mounting assembly 154 can couple wind turbine 152 to structure 138 using any suitable mechanical coupling component and/or technique. Additionally, wind turbine 152 can be formed from any suitable device, component, and/or assembly that is capable of harvesting wind energy and utilizing/storing the harvested energy. In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 7, wind turbine 152 is formed as an omni-directional, tulip turbine. In other non-limiting examples, wind turbine 152 is formed as an omni-directional vortex turbine, a darrieus turbine, a helical turbine, an H rotor turbine, a savonius turbine, a hawt turbine, or the like.
In other non-limiting examples, energy harvesting device 148, and more specifically wind turbine 152, can be mounted in different portions of structure 138. Turning to FIG. 9, wind turbine 152 is shown as mounted and/or coupled to a distinct portion of structure 138. For example, wind turbine 152 is coupled to structure 138 at an octonode 156 (see, FIG. 10). Octonode 156 includes a portion of structure 138 where eight (8) building panel units 100 and/or four (4) building panel 124 meet and are joined. Additionally, octonode 156 represents one of the strongest points in structure 138 based on the three-dimensional geometry of structure 138 and/or the number of building panel units 100 joined at octonode 156. In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 9, mounting assembly 154 contacts, is positioned over, and/or is coupled to a portion of each of the eight (8) building panel units 100 defining octonode 156. Additionally in the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 9, mounting assembly 154 is hingable, such that wind turbine 152 can be laid flat on structure 138. Mounting assembly 154 can include a hinge to facilitate wind turbine 152 lying flat on structure 138 to, for example, prevent damage to wind turbine 152 during assembly and/or transportation.
In the non-limiting example, a hook 158 is encased within hingable mounting assembly 154. More specifically, and as shown in FIG. 9, hook 158 is partially surrounded by mounting assembly 154 and exposed when wind turbine 152 is lying down or in an inoperable position. Additionally, hook 158 is surrounded and/or encased within mounting assembly 154 when 152 is in an upright or operational position. Hook 158, like mounting assembly 154, is coupled to structure 138 at octonode 156. In an exemplary embodiment, hook 158 can extend between and/or through each of the plurality (e.g., eight) of building panel units 100 defining octonode 156. That is, hook 158 extends above and/or adjacent outer wall 102 of each building panel unit 100 defining octonode 156. Additionally, a portion of hook 158 (e.g., support beam, coupling end) extends through each building panel unit 100 and is positioned adjacent to and/or is affixed to inner surface 104 and/or chamfered sidewalls 110 to secure hook 158 within structure 138. Hook 158 is used to move and/or transport structure 138 after assembly. More specifically, a lifting or rigging system (e.g., crane and straps) can engage with hook 158 and lift assembled structure 138 to transport structure 138 to a desired location. As discussed herein, structure 138 can include a single hook 158, or alternatively can include a plurality of hooks 158—dependent, at least in part, on the three-dimensional geometry of structure 138 and/or the number of octonode 156 included in structure 138.
FIGS. 10 and 11 show perspective views of additional exemplary embodiments of structure 138 formed from building panel units 100/plurality of building panels 124. It is understood that similarly numbered and/or named components may function in a substantially similar fashion. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity.
Structure 138 shown in FIG. 10 includes a plurality of energy harvesting device 148 included therein. More specifically, structure 138 includes five (5) wind turbine 152 coupled to distinct portions of structure 138. In the non-limiting example, a single wind turbine 152 can be coupled to and/or positioned over each octonode 156 formed and/or defined within structure 138. As shown, octonode 156 is defined by eight (8) building panel units 100 forming three (3) distinct building panels 124 and a single (1) stellation assembly 146. Each mounting assembly 154 used to coupled wind turbine 152 at octonode 156 of structure 138 can also encase hook 158 coupled to and/or extending through building panel unit 100 defining octonode 156, as discussed herein with respect to FIG. 9. Additionally, a single wind turbine 152 can be coupled to the apex of building panel 124 formed on the top of structure 138.
FIG. 11 shows a plurality of structures 138A, 138B, 138C, 138D joined together. In the non-limiting example, each of the plurality of structures 138, 138B, 138C, 138D are coupled together to form a single, solitary structure. Each structure 138A, 138B, 138C, 138D can be coupled to an adjacent structures 138A, 138B, 138C, 138D to form the single structure. More specifically, building panel units 100/building panels 124 of one structure 138A, 138B, 138C, 138D can be coupled to building panel units 100/building panels 124 of a distinct, adjacent structure 138A, 138B, 138C, 138D. Additionally, each of the plurality of structure 138A, 138B, 138C, 138D can include at least one opening 142. Openings 142 for each structure 138A, 138B, 138C, 138D can be substantially aligned and/or formed adjacent one another to allow a user of the single structure to pass between each structure 138A, 138B, 138C, 138D. For example, opening 142A (not shown) formed in structure 138A, and at least partially defined by building panel 124A and stellation assembly 146A, can be positioned directly adjacent to and/or coupled to build panel 124B and stellation assembly 146B of structure 138B. Additionally, structure 138B can also include an opening (not shown), defined by building panel 124B and stellation assembly 146B, and substantially aligned with the opening defined by building panel 124A and stellation assembly 146A of structure 138A. In the non-limiting example, the “peak” building panel units 100A, 100B for each stellation assemblies 146A, 146B can be coupled directly to one another. As such, stellation assemblies 146A, 146B may not include “front” building panel unit 100C, as similarly discussed herein with respect to FIG. 7.
FIG. 12 shows a rear perspective view of building panel 124 formed from a plurality of building panel units 100. Building panel 124 depicted in FIG. 12 is substantially similar to building panel 124 shown and discussed herein with respect to FIG. 5. It is understood that similarly numbered and/or named components may function in a substantially similar fashion. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity.
As discussed herein, structure 138 can include at least one energy harvesting device 148. In addition to solar panels 150 (see, FIG. 7) and wind turbines 152 (see, FIGS. 7, 10 and 11) discussed herein, energy harvesting device 148 can be incorporated on building panel units 100 forming building panel 124. For example, energy harvesting device 148 can include a Peltier device 160 coupled to inner surface 104 of at least one building panel unit 100 forming building panel 124. Peltier device 160 can utilize the thermal energy conducted, absorbed, and/or harvested by each building panel unit 100 and convert the energy to a voltage to be utilized within and/or stored in a storage unit, as discussed herein. In another non-limiting example, energy harvesting device 148 can include a piezoelectric device 162 coupled to inner surface 104 of building panel unit(s) 100 forming building panel 124. Piezoelectric device 162 can utilize mechanical energy conducted, absorbed, and/or harvested by each building panel unit 100 (e.g., wind/movement of building panel unit 100) and convert the energy to a voltage to be utilized within and/or stored in a storage unit.
Structure 138 can also include an energy storage unit 164. Energy storage unit 164 is operably coupled to and/or in electronic communication with energy harvesting device 148 including in structure 138. For example, where structure 138 includes Peltier device 160 coupled to inner surface 104 of building panel unit 100, as shown in FIG. 12, Energy storage unit 164 is operably coupled to and/or in electronic communication with each Energy storage unit 164. Additionally, or alternatively, Energy storage unit 164 is also operably coupled to and/or in electronic communication with solar panels 150 and/or wind turbine 152, where structure 138 includes solar panels 150/wind turbine 152 (see, FIG. 7). Energy storage unit 164 can be hardwired 166 to each energy harvesting device 148 included within structure 138. Energy storage unit 164 is formed as any suitable device or system capable of receiving harvested energy (e.g., electricity) from energy harvesting device 148 and storing the received energy therein. For example, Energy storage unit 164 can include a power or battery bank/stack and a power inverter. Energy storage unit 164 can be positioned and/or located within structure 138 or may be housed outside of structure 138 in its own structure.
FIGS. 13 and 14 depict an exemplary embodiment of an internal panel unit 168. More specifically, FIG. 13 shows a perspective front view of internal panel unit 168, and FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional side view of a portion of internal panel unit 168, taken along line 14-14 in FIG. 13. As discussed herein, internal panel unit 168 or a plurality of internal panel units 168 can be included within an internal cavity or area of structure 138, and can cover building panel units 100/building panels 124 forming structure 138.
Similar to building panel unit 100, internal panel unit 168 is formed as a single, unitary component including a plurality of surfaces and/or features. As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, internal panel unit 168 includes an exposed surface 170, and an internal surface 172 formed opposite exposed surface 170. Exposed surface 170 and internal surface 172 of internal panel unit 168 include a shape substantially similar to and/or corresponding to the two-dimensional shape of building panel units 100 used to form building panel 124/structure 138. In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 13, the shape of exposed surface 170 and internal surface 172 is a two-dimensional isosceles triangle, where sides 174 include equal lengths (L3), and side 176 includes a length (L4) distinct from the length (L4) of side 174. The length (L3) of sides 174 can be substantially similar or smaller than the length (L1) of sidewalls 106 of building panel unit 100, as discussed herein. Additionally, length (L4) of side 174 is substantially similar or small than length (L2) of side 108 of building panel unit 100.
Internal panel unit 168 also includes connection-spring sidewalls 178. Connection-spring sidewalls 178 are formed integral with exposed surface 170. More specially, connection-spring sidewalls 178 are formed integral with and/or extends from exposed surface 170 at each side 174, 176 of internal panel unit 168. As discussed herein (see, FIG. 15), connection-spring sidewalls 178 of internal panel unit 168 include a shape or geometry that facilitates the compression coupling of internal panel unit 168 to building panel unit 100 within structure 138. Additionally, and as discussed herein, connection-spring sidewalls 178 of internal panel unit 168 can also be substantially flexible to facilitate releasably coupling internal panel unit 168 to building panel unit 100 via connection-spring sidewalls 178.
In an exemplary embodiment, internal panel unit 168 can be formed as a single, unitary component, and as such is formed from a single material. Alternatively, and dependent at least in part on the desired aesthetic look for exposed surface 170 of internal panel unit 168, internal panel unit 168 can be formed from a plurality of components and/or a plurality of distinct materials. For example, connection-spring sidewalls 178 can be separate from and affixed to a body including exposed surface 170 and internal surface 172. In another exemplary embodiment, internal panel unit 168 can be formed as a single, unitary component, but can be formed from more than one material, where at least a portion of a first later of material is covered by a second later of material. In non-limiting examples, internal panel unit 168 is formed from flexible materials, recycled materials, metals, aluminum, alloys, canvas, resins, bioresins, chitin, wood, laminates, plastic, glass, mirrors, and the like. In the exemplary embodiment where connection-spring sidewalls 178 and the body including exposed surface 170 and internal surface 172 are formed as distinct components, it is understood that each component can be formed from a distinct material. For example, connection-spring sidewalls 178 can be formed from a metal or metal alloy, and the body including exposed surface 170/internal surface 172 can be formed from wood or wood-laminate. In another exemplary embodiment where internal panel unit 168 is formed as single, unitary component, but is formed from multiple materials, the single, unitary internal panel unit 168 can be, for example, formed from aluminum, and a layer of polymer or resin (e.g., PVC) material can be disposed over exposed surface 170 of internal panel unit 168.
Internal panel unit 168 can include additional components and/or materials. For example, and as shown in FIG. 14, additional components and/or materials can be formed on internal surface 172 of internal panel unit 168. In the exemplary embodiment, a strengthening layer 180 can be disposed directly over and/or directly on internal surface 172 of internal panel unit 168. Strengthening layer 180 can provide additional support, structure, and/or structural strength to internal panel unit 168. In a non-limiting example, strengthening layer 180 is formed from an aluminum honeycomb panel that is coupled to, affixed to, and/or disposed directly over internal surface 172 of internal panel unit 168.
Additionally, or alternatively, internal panel unit 168 can include an insulative layer 182. That is, in addition to, or in place of strengthening layer 180, internal panel unit 168 can include insulative layer 182 for providing thermal insulation to the internal cavity of structure 138 including internal panel units 168 coupled to building panel unit 100, as discussed herein (see, FIG. 15). In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 14, insulative layer 182 is disposed directly over and/or substantially covers strengthening layer 180. Insulative layer 182 is also positioned adjacent internal surface 172 of internal panel unit 168. In another non-limiting example where internal panel unit 168 does not include strengthening layer 180 (not shown), insulative layer 182 is coupled to, affixed to, and/or disposed directly over internal surface 172 of internal panel unit 168. Insulative layer 182 can be formed from any suitable material that facilitates thermal insulation for structure 138 including internal panel unit 168. For example, insulative layer 182 can be formed from fiberglass, denim, radiant barrier materials, foam, wood, wool, of the like.
FIG. 15 shows a cross-sectional view of two coupled building panel units 100, and two internal panel units 168 coupled to building panel units 100. As discussed herein, internal panel units 168 can be coupled to building panel units 100 forming building panels 124 of structure 138 (see, FIGS. 7, 8, 11, and 12). It is understood that similarly numbered and/or named components may function in a substantially similar fashion. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity.
As discussed herein with respect to FIG. 5, adjacent building panel units 100 can be coupled to one another via chamfered sidewalls 110 and coupling component 130 disposed between the plurality of apertures 122 formed through coupling portion 112 of chamfered sidewalls 110. In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 15, coupling component 130 used to couple building panel units 100 are a dome-topped bolt, and a dome-topped nut, respectively. Dome-topped bolt and dome-topped nut forming coupling component 130 facilitate the coupling of internal panel unit 168 to each building panel unit 100. That is, and as shown in FIG. 15, connection-spring sidewalls 178 of internal panel unit 168 engage, compress upon, and/or partially wrap around dome-topped bolt or dome-topped nut to releasably couple internal panel unit 168 to a respective building panel unit 100 forming building panel 124 of structure 138. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 15, once coupled to building panel units 100, internal panel units 168 substantially cover and hide building panel units 100 and/or the seam formed between two coupled building panel units 100. Because of the flexibility characteristics of connection-spring sidewalls 178 of internal panel unit 168, connection-spring sidewalls 178 apply a compression force on coupling component 130 (e.g., dome-topped bolt/nut) to couple internal panel unit 168 to building panel unit 100 and/or releasably fix internal panel unit 168 to building panel unit 100.
As shown in FIG. 15, additional layers included on or in internal panel unit 168 are disposed between internal panel unit 168 and building panel unit 100. More specifically, strengthening layer 180 and insulative layer 182 are disposed between internal surface 172 of internal panel unit 168 and inner surface 104 of building panel unit 100. Additionally, and as shown in the exemplary embodiment, an air gap 184 is defined between insulative layer 182 of internal panel unit 168 and inner surface 104 of building panel unit 100. Air gap 184 can provide additional insulative properties for structure 138 including building panel units 100/building panels 124 and internal panel units 168, as discussed herein.
FIGS. 16 and 17 show an exemplary embodiment of a support base 200 for structure 138. More specifically, FIG. 16 shows a perspective front view of support base 200, and FIG. 17 shows a front view of structure 138 coupled to support base 200. It is understood that similarly numbered and/or named components may function in a substantially similar fashion. Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for clarity.
As shown in FIG. 16, support base 200 includes a plurality of armatures 202 connected or coupled at a junction module 204. More specifically, each armature 202 of support base 200 extends between and/or is coupled to two distinct junction modules 204. Additionally, each junction module 204 is coupled to three or more armatures 202 of support base 200. In non-limiting examples, the plurality of armatures 202 are releasably coupled or permanently affixed (e.g., welded) to respective junction modules 204. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 16, support base 200 includes an upper portion 206 including a perimeter 208, and a lower portion 210 positioned below upper portion 206. Perimeter 208 of upper portion 206 is shaped to support and/or receive structure 138. That is, and as discussed herein with respect to FIG. 17, perimeter 208 of upper portion 206 includes a geometry or two-dimensional shape that corresponds to and/or substantially matches the two-dimensional (bottom) shape of structure 138. Lower portion 210 includes a shape or geometry that is smaller than upper portion 206/perimeter 208. As such, the plurality of armatures 202 extending between upper portion 206 and lower portion 210 are angled inward and/or angled toward a center of support base 200. Support base 200, and more specifically, the plurality of armatures 202 and junction module 204, are formed from any suitable material capable of structurally supporting structure 138 (see, FIG. 17) including, but not limited to, steel, metal alloys, and the like.
Additionally in the non-limiting example, support base 200 can include a plurality of adjustable feet 212 (see, FIG. 17). The plurality of adjustable feet 212 are coupled to lower portion 210. More specifically, each of the plurality of adjustable feet 212 are coupled directly to one junction module 204 positioned in lower portion 210 of support base 200. The plurality of adjustable feet 212 coupled to junction modules 204 include an adjustable height between to facilitate the leveling of support base 200 and/or structure 138 positioned on support base 200. The plurality of adjustable feet 212 of support base 200 are formed from any suitable material capable of structurally supporting structure 138 and/or adjusting the height of support base 200 to level support base 200/structure 138.
FIG. 17 shows structure 138 positioned on support base 200. More specifically, structure 138 is positioned on, positioned over, is structurally supported by, and/or is coupled to support base 200. As discussed herein with respect to FIG. 16, perimeter 208 of support base 200 substantially corresponds to a geometry of structure 138. As such, and as shown in FIG. 17, no portion of structure 138 overhangs and/or extends beyond upper portion 206/perimeter 208 of support base 200. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 17, a floor 218 is positioned between structure 138 and support base 200. Floor 218 is disposed over and/or positioned directly on upper portion 206 of support base 200. In the non-limiting example, floor 218 also includes a shape and/or geometry that substantially corresponds to perimeter 208 of support base 200 and structure 138.
In the non-limiting example, structure 138 is coupled and/or affixed to support base 200. As similarly discussed herein with respect to coupling building panel units 100 via chamfered sidewalls 110, exposed chamfered sidewalls 110 (not shown) for the bottom building panel units 100 of structure 138 can be coupled directly to support base 200. For example, bolts extending through the plurality of apertures 122 of chamfered sidewalls 110 can extend through floor 218 and subsequently be coupled directly to armatures 202 and/or junction modules 204 of support base 200. In another non-limiting example, floor 218 may be coupled to each of structure 138 and support base 200, which in turn couples structure 138 to support base 200.
Structure 138 is coupled to support base 200 to facilitate easier setup and/or transportability of structure 138. That is, structure 138 coupled to support base 200 allows structure 138 to be moved and setup in more easily and/or without the need of a pre-established foundation (e.g., concrete slab). Additionally, and with the aid of the plurality of adjustable feet 212, structure 138 can be moved to virtually any location and leveled in a matter of minutes. As similarly discussed herein with respect to FIG. 9, hooks 158 included in structure 138 facilitate improved mobility and transportation of structure 138 and support base 200 affixed to structure 138.
The building panels and structures in accordance with the present disclosure present several unique advantages. For example, the building panels and structures discussed herein allow for the shaping of an energy harvesting building or structure that collects energy and funnels it to a specialized energy harvester. Multiple energy sources may be harvested in a hybrid fashion from the energy that the structure keeps out and/or is exposed to during operation. Available energy sources include solar, wind, hydroelectric, and thermoelectric energy sources. The self-strutting, self-tensioning building panels in accordance with the present disclosure allows for fractal distribution of light energy, while funneling wind forces at shear angles to generate vortexes for turbines (e.g., tulip turbines). Additionally, the building panels formed from building units discussed herein allow structures formed from the same to be readily transportable once assembled. The use of a base support coupled to the structures formed from building panels further improves the portability and ease of setting up and leveling structures formed from self-tensioning building panels.
This written description uses examples to illustrate the present disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any compositions or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.
As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having,” “contains”, “containing,” “characterized by” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, subject to any limitation explicitly indicated. For example, a composition, mixture, process or method that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such composition, mixture, process or method.
The transitional phrase “consisting of” excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified. If in the claim, such would close the claim to the inclusion of materials other than those recited except for impurities ordinarily associated therewith. When the phrase “consisting of” appears in a clause of the body of a claim, rather than immediately following the preamble, it limits only the element set forth in that clause; other elements are not excluded from the claim as a whole.
The transitional phrase “consisting essentially of” is used to define a composition or method that includes materials, steps, features, components, or elements, in addition to those literally disclosed, provided that these additional materials, steps, features, components, or elements do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed invention. The term “consisting essentially of” occupies a middle ground between “comprising” and “consisting of”.
Where an invention or a portion thereof is defined with an open-ended term such as “comprising,” it should be readily understood that (unless otherwise stated) the description should be interpreted to also describe such an invention using the terms “consisting essentially of” or “consisting of”
Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive or and not to an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).
Also, the indefinite articles “a” and “an” preceding an element or component of the invention are intended to be nonrestrictive regarding the number of instances (i.e., occurrences) of the element or component. Therefore “a” or “an” should be read to include one or at least one, and the singular word form of the element or component also includes the plural unless the number is obviously meant to be singular.
As used herein, the terms “about,” “approximately,” or “substantial” means plus or minus 10% of the value.
Patent Application
20240392566
