Patent Application
20110252717
The present invention refers to foldable structures method/system for creating parts of a construction such as domes, roofs or similar for any building and/or tunnels and/or bridges for pedestrian and/or vehicle traffic, including the method/system for their transportation, assembly and an unfolding method to place the structure in the construction site.
Constructions systems and methods using prefabricated structures are known and desired in the art. Using prefabricated structures helps the builder save in costs and time and allows the building or construction to be ready to be used in less time.
Foldable and transportable roofs are known in the prior art. For example document CN201268965 discloses a mobile home with a foldable roofing, which comprises an integral floor structure, four wall bodies, two slanting roofs and two gables.
Publication US No. US2009014044 discloses a folding shed including a roof with a first roof section pivotally connected to a first sidewall and a second roof section pivotally connected to a second sidewall.
Publication No. JP2007170150 disclose a structure having the gable roof comprises: four wall surfaces formed by hinging both side edges of a front face constitutive body and a rear face constitutive body hinged through center columns, and both side edges of a pair of side face constitutive bodies facing each other; and the roof section formed by hinging a ridge part and the upper edges of a pair of inclined roof boards.
Furthermore, roof connections are also known in the art, for example publication No. US2009078297 discloses an automatic control device of foldable tent connecting to several roof strut sets consisting of several segments serially connected in radial; wherein, said control device is typically comprised of a central standing base containing a sliding hub, a spring and a tappet roller at inside.
Furthermore publication No. US2007131265 discloses a top frame of foldable tent including a set of foldable roof braces and a set of coordinated sub-braces constructing the main frame is typically employed with a hydraulic tappet fixed between the static pivot hub pivoting all the sub-braces and spreader pivoting all the roof braces with both ends, by means of the jack-up and hold-on features of the hydraulic tappet, said spreader is pushed down and kept in the ultimate position to bring the entire roof braces q and sub-braces to expend out. Said structure has fewer parts, simple, convenient for manufacturing and combination features.
The present invention refers to a transportable and foldable structure for building a construction, more specifically building roofs, ceilings, domes or similar or tunnels or bridge constructions for pedestrian and/or vehicle traffic, wherein both are placed between at least two elements of the construction. Specifically, the present invention refers to transportable, foldable and coupling structure units for building constructions, specifically roofs, domes, ceilings, tunnels or bridges for pedestrian and/or vehicle traffic, in which coupling and folding structure units are to be placed between two elements of the construction.
An element of the construction to which the coupling and folding structures are fixed is preferably a column or a base of the construction. The construction may be selected among any type of construction, such as cement, plywood, pvc, modified marine containers, mobile homes, or other building structures.
The transportable and foldable structure may be comprised by at least one coupling and folding structure unit.
If the transportable and foldable structure comprises one coupling and folding structure unit, the coupling and folding structure unit comprises at least a first fixing element, such as an anchor, which will fasten the folding structure unit to a first element of the construction, such as a column or base. The first fixing element may be alternately coupled to a further fixing element of a different coupling and folding structure unit by means of a fastening element or coupled to coupling and folding device of a different coupling and folding structure unit. The first fixing element is placed at a first end of the construction. Furthermore, the coupling and folding structure unit comprises at least a second fixing element in the opposite end of the coupling and folding structure unit than the first fixing element, similar to the first fixing element, which will fasten the transportable and foldable structure to a second element of the construction, such as a second column or base to anchor the structure. Alternately, the second fixing element may be coupled to a further fixing element of a different coupling and folding structure unit by means of a fastening element or coupled to coupling and folding device of a different coupling and folding structure unit. The second fixing element is placed at a second end of the transportable and foldable structure, which is opposite to and may be co-lineal with the first end of the transportable and foldable structure. In between the first fixing element and the second fixing element at least one coupling and folding device is provided. In between the first fixing element and the coupling and folding device a first rod is provided. In between the coupling and folding device and the second fixing element a second rod is provided. Both rods are coupled with the coupling and folding device. Furthermore, both rods when fully extended are substantially co-lineal one to another. When the coupling and folding structure unit is fully extended a certain angle which is at least 90°, more preferably 140° and yet more preferably at least 160° may be present among the lower face of the first rod and the lower face of the second rod. However, a 180° angle between the lower face of the first rod and the lower face of the second rod may be achieved. An actuating device, such as a rod, bolt, pin, screw, wire or thread, is attached from the first end of the transportable and foldable structure to the second end of the transportable and foldable structure. When actuated, the actuating device rotates the coupling and folding device so as to move the second rod in regards to the first rod, so that the second rod is in a substantially parallel position in regards to the first rod when in a folded position. The first rod may be fastened with regards to the coupling and folding device, while the second rod is movable with regards to the coupling and folding device. The movement of the second rod with regards to the coupling and folding device may be provided by means known in the art, such as a bearing.
The transportable and foldable structure may comprise two folding structure units. A second folding structure unit comprises a first fixing element, such as an anchor, which will fasten the transportable and foldable structure to a first element of the construction, such as a column or base. The second folding structure unit further comprises at least two coupling and folding devices. A first coupling and folding device will fasten the second folding structure unit to a first folding structure unit of the construction. The first coupling and folding device is placed at a second end of the second folding structure unit, opposite to the first end. In between the first fixing element and the first coupling and folding device, a second coupling and folding device is provided. In between the first fixing element and the second coupling and folding device a first rod is provided. In between the second coupling and folding device and the first coupling and folding device a second rod is provided. Both rods are coupled with the second coupling and folding device. When both rods are fully extended, that is, when the second folding structure unit is fully extended, the first rod and the second rod are substantially co-lineal one to another. When fully extended, a certain angle which is at least 90°, more preferably 140° and yet more preferably 160° is present among the lower face of the first rod and the second rod. However, a 180° angle between the lower face of the first rod and the lower face of the second rod may be achieved. An actuating device, such as a rod, wire, bolt, pin, screw or thread, is attached from the first end of the first folding structure unit to the second end of the first folding structure unit. When actuated, the actuating device rotates the second coupling and folding device so as to move the second rod in regards to the first rod, so that the second rod is in a substantially parallel position in regards to the first rod when in a folded position. The first rod may be fastened with regards to the second coupling and folding device, while the second rod is movable with regards to the second coupling and folding device. The movement of the second rod with regards to the folding device may be provided by means known in the art, such as a bearing. The first folding structure unit is built essentially in the same manner as when the transportable and foldable structure comprises one folding unit. The coupling between the first folding structure unit and the second folding structure unit is by means of the first coupling and folding device of the second folding structure unit and one of the two fixing elements of the first folding structure unit is carried by conventional means known in the art, such as threaded holes, bolts, pin, screw, wire or threads and nuts.
The transportable and foldable structure may comprise three or more folding structure units. The first and second folding structure units are formed in a similar manner to the first folding structure unit disclosed for the one folding structure unit for the transportable and foldable structure. A third folding structure unit, which is placed in between the first and second folding structure units, comprises a first coupling and folding device at one end of the third folding structure unit, proximate to the first folding structure unit, which will fasten the third folding structure unit to the first folding structure unit by means of the first coupling and folding device of the third folding structure unit and by means of the second fixing element of the first folding structure unit. Furthermore, the third folding structure unit comprises a second coupling and folding device at a second end of the third folding structure unit, opposite to the first end of the third folding structure unit, which will fasten the third folding structure unit to the second folding structure unit by means of the second coupling and folding device of the third folding structure unit and by means of the second fixing element of the second folding structure unit. In between the first coupling and folding device and the second coupling and folding device of the third folding structure, a third coupling and folding device is provided in the third folding structure unit. In between the first coupling and folding device and the third coupling and folding device of the third folding structure a first rod is provided. In between the third coupling and folding device and the second coupling and folding device of the third folding structure a second rod is provided. Both rods are coupled with the third coupling and folding device. When both rods are fully extended, that is, when the third folding structure unit is fully extended, the first rod and the second rod are substantially co-lineal one to another. When fully extended, a certain angle which is at least 90°, more preferably 140° and yet more preferably at least 160° is present among the lower face of the first rod and the second rod. However, a 180° angle between the lower face of the first rod and the lower face of the second rod may be achieved. An actuating device, such as a rod, wire or thread, is attached from the first end of the third folding structure unit to the second end of the third folding structure unit. When actuated, the actuating device rotates the third coupling and folding device so as to move the first rod in regards to the second rod, so that the first rod is in a substantially parallel position in regards to the second rod when in a folded position. The second rod may be fastened with regards to the third coupling and folding device, while the first rod is movable with regards to the third coupling and folding device. The movement of the first rod with regards to the third coupling and folding device may be provided by means known in the art, such as a bearing. The coupling between the first folding structure unit and the third folding structure unit, by means of the first coupling and folding device of the third folding structure unit and the second fixing element of the first folding structure unit is carried by conventional means known in the art, such as threaded holes, bolts, pin, screw, wire or threads or nuts. Likewise, the coupling between the second folding structure unit and the third folding structure unit, by means of the second coupling and folding device of the third folding structure unit and the second fixing element of the second folding structure unit is carried by conventional means known in the art, such as threaded holes, bolts pin, screw, wire or threads and nuts.
In all the embodiments, the coupling and folding devices may be a substantially cylindrical form, however may take any desired shape. The inner part of the folding device should be hollow and more preferably, hollow and threaded. Therefore, a bolt, pin, screw, wire or threads may be threaded in the inner part of the coupling and folding device, in such a manner that the same bolt may fasten two or more folding structure units in a substantially parallel manner. Furthermore, a bolt, pin, screw, wire or threads may be threaded in the inner part of the coupling and folding device in such a manner that the same bolt may fasten two or more folding structure units in a substantially co-lineal manner. Therefore, the transportable and foldable structure is actually comprised by folding structure units in a substantially parallel manner and by folding structure units in a substantially co-lineal manner. The ends of the bolts, pin, screw, wire or thread are fastened by nuts.
The fixing elements may be alternately coupled to each other by means of fastening elements. That is, instead of coupling the fixing elements to a second, third, fourth, or more folding structure units, the fixing elements are coupled to fastening elements. The fixing elements have a hole, which may be threaded, in which a bar which may be threaded is placed. The fastening elements comprise a lower part and an upper part, which are coupled together by means of conventional coupling means known in the art, such as threaded holes, bolts, pin, screw, wire or threads and nuts.
The fastening elements may be formed by any shape, however, shapes with smooth and constant walls are preferred. The fastening elements have at least two connections, each wall of the fastening element having at least one connection. The fastening elements preferably have at least three connections and even more preferably at least four connections. When a folding structure unit is coupled with a fastening element, part of the fixing element, which is an extension of one of the two rods of the folding structure unit, is placed within a connection of the fastening element. The connections are generally hollow and are usually placed between the lower part and the upper part of the fastening element. Furthermore, the connections have a width or diameter which is less than the width or diameter of the wall of the node in which the connection is present. The connections are formed in shape so that at least part of the fixing element may rest within the connection. Given that the fixing element (“joint”) has a bar in its hole, and given that the bar is generally broader than the width of the connection, when the lower part and the upper part are coupled, the folding structure unit is coupled and fixed with regards to the fastening element. As stated before, the fastening elements or joints may have one or more connections for each wall. Therefore, the fastening elements are prepared to receive at least one folding structure unit per wall.
The fastening elements are provided as relief devices for a large amount of folding structure units. That is, if a broad or large area is to be covered with the transportable and foldable structure, then fastening elements need to be used since otherwise transportation of the transportable and foldable structure would be difficult. Furthermore, the fastening elements are used as nodes, that is, if a broad or large area is to be covered with the transportable and foldable structure fastening elements need to be used so that each foldable structure unit does not fold or vibrate when the transportable and foldable structure is installed.
When two or more folding structure units which are substantially co-lineal are present, the actuating devices between the first folding structure unit and the second folding structure unit may be connected to each other, so that when one of the at least two actuating devices is actuated, the at least two folding structure units may be simultaneously extended or folded. Reels may be added to the actuating devices so as to coil or uncoil the actuating devices.
When a first pair of two or more folding structure units which are substantially co-lineal are present, and when second pair of two or more folding structure units which are also substantially co-lineal and which are substantially parallel to the first pair of folding structure units, wherein the first pair of folding structure units may be substantially parallel to the second pair of folding structure units, the first pair of folding structure units may be intercalated in position with the second pair of folding structure units with regards to the first and second fixed elements of the construction. That is, since in the first pair of folding structure units both folding structure units are coupled by means of the first coupling and folding devices and the second fixing element, and since the first coupling and folding devices are coupled laterally, then the coupling means have a determined width. Given that the coupling means have a determined width, both folding structure units are substantially co-lineal with each other, however not necessarily co-lineal with the construction. That is, the first pair of folding structure units intercalates with the second pair of folding structure unit in the point where the at least two substantially co-lineal folding structure units are coupled together, that is, in the respective first coupling and folding device of both the first and second substantially co-lineal folding structure units of the first pair, and in the point when the other at least two substantially co-lineal folding structure units are coupled together, that is, in the respective first coupling and folding device of both the first and second substantially co-lineal folding structure units of the second pair, which is parallel to the first pair.
Therefore, a transportable and foldable structure may be formed by multiple folding devices some of which are substantially co-lineal and some of which are substantially parallel. For installation purposes, depending on the area to be covered by the transportable and foldable structure, the transportable and foldable structure is placed and/or transported in a vehicle which is capable of setting a first fixing element proximate to a first fixed element of the construction. The first fixing element is coupled to the first fixed element of the construction. At least a first part of the transportable and foldable structure is then extended in a substantially horizontal manner. Specifically at least a first pair of substantially co-lineal folding structure units and a second pair of substantially co-lineal folding structure units, which are substantially parallel to the first pair of folding structure units are extended. These first and second pair of folding transportable and foldable structure may then coupled to another first and second pair of folding transportable and foldable structure by means of a fastening element. These newly coupled first and second pair of transportable and foldable structure are again extended. This is carried out continuously until the transportable and foldable structure is complete. Finally, a second fixing element is placed proximate to a second fixed element of the construction. The second fixing element is coupled to the second fixed element of the construction.
The present invention will be further understood when referenced with the following detailed description and with the following figures. Additionally, other aspects will become apparent when referenced with the detailed descriptions along with the following figures.
The following description is made in reference to
The transportable and foldable structure 2 may be comprised by at least one coupling and folding structure unit 20.
If the transportable and foldable structure 2 comprises one folding structure unit 20, the folding structure unit 20 comprises at least a first fixing element 26, such as an anchor, which will fasten the transportable and foldable structure 2 to a first element 4 of the construction 6, such as a column or base. The first fixing element 26 may be alternately coupled to a further fixing element 26′ of a different folding structure unit 20′ by means of a fastening element 50 or coupled to a coupling and folding device of a different folding structure 120, 220. The first fixing element 26 is placed at a first end 22 of the transportable and foldable structure. Furthermore, the folding structure unit 20 comprises at least a second fixing element 28 in the opposite end 24 of the folding structure unit than the first fixing element end 22, wherein the second fixing element 28 is similar to the first fixing element, and will fasten the transportable and foldable structure 2 to a second element 4′ of the construction 6. Alternately, the second fixing element 28 may be coupled to a further fixing element 26, of a different folding structure unit 20′ by means of a fastening element 50 as will be explained below or coupled to a coupling and folding device of a different folding structure unit 120, 220 as will be explained below. The second fixing element 28 is placed at the second end of the transportable and foldable structure 2, opposite to and co-lineal with the first end of the transportable and foldable structure. In between the first fixing element 26 and the second fixing element 28 at least one coupling and folding device 30 is provided. In between the first fixing element 26 and the coupling and folding device a first rod 40 is provided. In between the coupling and folding device 30 and the second fixing element 28 a second rod 42 is provided. Both rods 40, 42 are coupled with the coupling and folding device 30. Furthermore, both rods 40, 42 when fully extended are substantially co-lineal one to another. When the coupling and folding structure unit 20 is fully extended a certain angle which is at least 90°, more preferably 140° and yet more preferably at least 160° may be present among the lower face 44 of the first rod 40 and the lower face 44 of the second rod 42. However, a 180° angle between the lower face 44 of the first rod 40 and the lower face 44 of the second rod 42 may be achieved. An actuating device 36, such as a rod, wire or thread, is attached from the first end 22 of the transportable and foldable structure to the second end 24 of the transportable and foldable structure, either directly or indirectly through the coupling and folding device 30. When actuated, the actuating device 36 rotates the coupling and folding device 30 so as to move the second rod 42 in regards to the first rod 40, so that the second rod 42 is in a substantially parallel position in regards to the first rod 40 when in a folded position. That is, when the actuating device 36 actuates the folding of the coupling and folding structure unit 20, the second end 24 is drawn to be proximate to the first end 22, as well as the second rod 42 is drawn to be proximate and substantially parallel with the first rod 40. The first rod 40 may be fastened with regards to the coupling and folding device 30, while the second rod 42 is movable with regards to the coupling and folding device 30. The movement of the second rod 42 with regards to the coupling and folding device 30 may be provided by means known in the art, such as a bearing.
The transportable and foldable structure 2 may comprise two substantially co-lineal folding structure units 20, 120′. If the transportable and foldable structure comprises two folding structure units 20, 120′ a second folding structure unit 120 comprises a first fixing element 126, such as an anchor, which will fasten the transportable and foldable structure 2 to a first element 4 of the construction 6, such as a column. Alternately, the first fixing element 126 may be coupled to another fixing element 26, 336 of a different folding structure unit 120 by means of a fastening element 50 or coupled to a coupling and folding device of a different folding structure unit 120, 220 as will be explained below. The first fixing element 126 is placed at one end 122 of the second folding structure unit 120. The second folding structure unit 120 further comprises at least two coupling and folding devices 130, 130′. A first coupling and folding device 130′ of the second folding structure unit 120 will fasten the second folding structure unit 120 to a first folding structure unit 20 of the construction. The first coupling and folding device 130′ of the second folding structure unit 120 is placed at a second end 124 of the second folding structure unit 120, opposite to the first end 122. In between the first fixing element 126 and the first coupling and folding device 130′ a second coupling and folding device 130 is provided. In between the first fixing element 126 and the first coupling and folding device 130′ a first rod 140 is provided. In between the second coupling and folding device 130′ and the first coupling and folding device 130 a second rod 142 is provided. Both rods 140, 142 are coupled with the second coupling and folding device 130. When both rods 140, 142 are fully extended, that is, when the second folding structure unit 120 is fully extended, the first rod 140 and the second rod 142 are substantially co-lineal one to another. When the second folding structure unit 120 is fully extended, a certain angle which is at least 90°, more preferably 140° and yet more preferably at least 160° is present among the lower face 144 of the first rod 140 and the second rod 142. However, a 180° angle between the lower face 144 of the first rod and the lower face 144 of the second rod may be achieved. An actuating device 136, such as a rod, wire or thread, is attached from the first end 122 of the second folding structure unit 120 to the second end 124 of the second folding structure unit 120, either directly or indirectly by means of the second coupling and folding device 130. When actuated, the actuating device 136 rotates the second coupling and folding device 130 so as to move the second rod 142 in regards to the first rod 140, so that the second rod 142 is in a substantially parallel position in regards to the first rod 140 when in a folded position. That is, when the actuating device 136 actuates the folding of the second coupling and folding structure unit 120, the second end 124 is drawn to be proximate to the first end 122, as well as the second rod 142 is drawn to be proximate and substantially parallel with the first rod 140. The first rod 140 may be fastened with regards to the second coupling and folding device 130, while the second rod 142 is movable with regards to the second coupling and folding device 130. The movement of the second rod 142 with regards to the second coupling and folding device 130 may be provided by means known in the art, such as a bearing.
The first folding structure unit 20 which is similarly built to the first embodiment comprises the first fixing element 26 and a second fixing element 28, wherein the second fixing element 28 is placed at one end 124 of the second folding structure unit 120. The second folding structure unit 120 further comprises the at least two coupling and folding devices 130, 130′. A first coupling and folding device 130′ and the second fixing element 28 will fasten the second folding structure unit 120 to the first folding structure unit 20. The first coupling and folding device 130′ when coupled to the second fixing element 28 will allow the folding of both the first and second folding structure units 20, 120. The actuating devices 36, 136, may be attached between themselves, either directly or indirectly by means of the coupling and folding devices 30, 130, 130′. When actuated, the actuating devices 36, 136 rotate the coupling and folding device, the second coupling and folding device 130 and the first coupling and folding device 130′, so as to move the second rods 42, 142 in regards to the first rods 40, 140, so that the second rods 42, 142 are in a substantially parallel position in regards to the first rod 40, 140 when in a folded position. That is, when the actuating devices 36, 136 actuate the folding of the coupling and folding structure units 20, 120, so that the second ends 24, 124 are drawn to be proximate to the first ends 22, 122, as well as the second rods 42, 142 are drawn to be proximate and substantially parallel with the first rods 40, 140. Further to the above configuration of the first and second coupling and folding structure units 20, 120, the second rod 142 may be fastened with regards to the first coupling and folding device 130′, while the second rod 42 is movable with regards to the first coupling and folding device 130′. The movement of the second rod 42 with regards to the first coupling and folding device 130′ may be provided by means known in the art, such as a bearing.
The transportable and foldable structure 2 may comprise three or more folding structure units 20, 20′, 220. A first and second folding structure unit 20, 20′ are formed in a similar manner to the first folding structure unit 20 above disclosed for the first embodiment. A third folding structure unit 220, which is placed in between the first and second folding structure units 20, 20′, comprises a first coupling and folding device 230′ at one end 222 of the third folding structure unit 220, proximate to where the first folding structure unit 20 will be fastened, wherein the first coupling and folding device 230′ and the first fixing element 26 will fasten the third folding structure unit 220 to the first folding structure unit 20. Furthermore, the third folding structure unit 220 comprises a second coupling and folding device 230″ at a second end 224 of the third folding structure unit, opposite to the first end 222 of the third folding structure unit. The second coupling and folding device 230″ will fasten the third folding structure unit 220 to the second folding structure unit 20′ by means of the second coupling and folding device 230″ of the third folding structure unit and by means of the second fixing element 28′ of the second folding structure unit 20′. In between the first coupling and folding device 230′ and the second coupling and folding device 230″, a third coupling and folding device 230 is provided in the third folding structure unit 220. In between the first coupling and folding device 230′ and the third coupling and folding device 230 a first rod 242 is provided. In between the third coupling and folding device 230 and the second coupling and folding device 230″ a second rod 240 is provided. Both rods 240, 242 are coupled with the third coupling and folding device 230. When both rods 240, 242 are fully extended, that is, when the third folding structure unit 220 is fully extended, the first rod 242 and the second rod 240 are substantially co-lineal one to another. When the third folding structure unit 220 is fully extended, a certain angle which is at least 90°, more preferably 140° and yet more preferably at least 160° is present among the lower face 244 of the first rod 242 and the lower face 244 of the second rod 240. However, a 180° angle between the lower face 244 of the first rod 242 and the lower face 244 of the second rod 240 may be achieved. An actuating device 236, such as a rod, wire or thread, is attached from the first end 224 of the third folding structure unit 220 to the second end 222 of the third folding structure unit 220. When actuated, the actuating device 236 rotates the third coupling and folding device 230 so as to move the first rod 242 in regards to the second rod 240, so that the first rod 242 is in a substantially parallel position in regards to the second rod 240 when in a folded position. The second rod 240 may be fastened with regards to the third coupling and folding device 230, while the first rod 242 is movable with regards to the third coupling and folding device 230. The movement of the first rod 242 with regards to the third coupling and folding device 230 may be provided by means known in the art, such as a bearing.
The first folding structure unit 20 comprises the first fixing element 26, such as an anchor, which will fasten the transportable and foldable structure to a first element 4 of the construction 6, such as a column or base and the second fixing element 28 of the first folding structure unit 20 or to further units 120, 220, wherein the second fixing element 28 is placed at one end 224 of the third folding structure unit 220. The second folding structure unit 20′ comprises the first fixing element 26′, such as an anchor, which will fasten the transportable and foldable structure to a second element 4′ of the construction 6, such as a column or base or to further units 120, 220, wherein the second fixing element 28′ is placed at one end 222 of the third folding structure unit 220. The third folding structure unit 220 further comprises the at least three coupling and folding devices 230, 230′, 230″. A first coupling and folding device 230′ and a fixing element 26, 28 will fasten the third folding structure unit 220 to the first folding structure unit 20. A second coupling and folding device 230″ and a fixing element 26′, 28′ will fasten the third folding structure unit 220 to the second folding structure unit 20′. The first coupling and folding device 230′ when coupled to the first fixing element 26 will allow the folding of both the first and third folding structure units 20, 220. The actuating devices 36, 236, may attached between themselves, either directly or indirectly by means of the coupling and folding devices 30, 230, 230′, 230″. When actuated, the actuating devices 36, 236 rotate the coupling and folding device 30, the third coupling and folding device 230 and the first coupling and folding device 230′, so as to move the second rods 42, 242 in regards to the first rods 40, 240, so that the second rods 42, 242 are in a substantially parallel position in regards to the first rods 40, 240 when in a folded position. That is, when the actuating devices 36, 236 actuate the folding of the coupling and folding structure units 20, 220, the second ends 24, 224 are drawn to be proximate to the first ends 22, 222, as well as the second rods 42, 242 are drawn to be proximate and substantially parallel with the first rods 40, 240. Further to the above configuration of the first and third coupling and folding structure units 20, 220, the rod 242 may be fastened with regards to the coupling and folding device 230′, while the rod 40 is movable with regards to the coupling and folding device 230′. The movement of the rod 40 with regards to the coupling and folding device 230′ may be provided by means known in the art, such as a bearing.
The second coupling and folding device 230″ when coupled to the fixing element 26′, 28′ will allow the folding of both the second and third folding structure units 20′, 220. The actuating devices 36′, 236, may attached between themselves, either directly or indirectly by means of the coupling and folding devices 30′, 230, 230′, 230″. When actuated, the actuating devices 36′, 236 rotate the coupling and folding device 30′, the third coupling and folding device 230 and the second coupling and folding device 230″, so as to move the first rods 40′, 240 in regards to the second rods 42′, 242, so that the second rods 42′, 242 are in a substantially parallel position in regards to the first rods 40′, 240 when in a folded position. That is, when the actuating devices 36′, 236 actuate the folding of the coupling and folding structure units 20′, 220, the second ends 24′, 224 are drawn to be proximate to the first ends 22′, 222, as well as the first rods 40′, 240 are drawn to be proximate and substantially parallel with the second rods 42′, 242. Further to the above configuration of the second and third coupling and folding structure units 20′, 220, the rod 240 may be fastened with regards to the coupling and folding device 230″, while the rod 42 is movable with regards to the coupling and folding device 230″. The movement of the rod 42 with regards to the coupling and folding device 230″ may be provided by means known in the art, such as a bearing.
In all the embodiments, the coupling and folding devices 30, 130, 130′, 230, 230′, 230″ (from hereinafter only referred to as 30 unless necessary) may be a substantially cylindrical form, however may take any desired shape. The inner part 32 of the folding device 30 should be hollow and more preferably, hollow and threaded. Therefore, a bolt 8 may be threaded in the inner part 32 of one of the two side ends 34, 34′ of the coupling and folding device 30, in such a manner that the same bolt 8 may fasten two or more folding structure units 120, 120′ in a substantially parallel manner. Furthermore, a bolt 8 may be threaded in the inner part 32 of one of the two side ends 34, 34′ of the coupling and folding device 30 in such a manner that the same bolt 8 may fasten two or more folding structure units 20, 120, 220 in a substantially co-lineal manner. Therefore, the transportable and foldable structure 2 may be comprised by folding structure units 120, 120′ in a substantially parallel manner and by folding structure units 20, 120, 220 in a substantially co-lineal manner. The ends of the bolts 8 are fastened by nuts 10.
The fixing elements 26, 28, 126′ (from hereinafter 26, 28, unless necessary) may be alternately coupled to each other by means of fastening elements 50. When four or more coupling and folding structure units 20 are used, it is preferred that the transportable and foldable structure 2 uses at least one fastening element 50. That is, instead of coupling the fixing elements to a coupling and folding device o another unit, the fixing elements 26, 28 are coupled to fastening elements 50. The fixing elements 26, 28 may be threaded, in which a bar which may be threaded is placed. The fastening elements comprise a lower part 52 and an upper part 54, which are coupled together by means of conventional coupling means known in the art, such as threaded holes, bolts, pin, screw, wire or threads and nuts.
The fastening elements 50 may be formed by any shape, however, shapes with smooth and constant walls are preferred. The fastening elements 50 have at least two connections, wherein at least two walls 56, 56′ of the fastening element 50 having at least one connection 58. The fastening elements 50 preferably have at least three connections 58 and even more preferably at least four connections 58. When a folding structure unit 20 is coupled with a fastening element 50, part of the fixing element 26, 28, which is an extension of one of the two rods 40, 42 of the folding structure unit, is placed within a connection 58 of the fastening element 50. The connections 58 are generally hollow and are usually placed between the lower part 52 and the upper part 54 of the fastening element 50. Furthermore, the connections 58 have a width or diameter which is less than the width or diameter of the wall of the node 60 which the fastening element 50 is forming. The connections 58 are formed in such a manner so that at least part of the fixing element 26, 28 may rest within the connection 58. Given that the fixing element 26, 28 has a bar 18, and given that the bar 18 is generally broader than the width of the connection 58, when the lower part 52 and the upper part 54 are coupled, the folding structure unit 20 is coupled and fixed with regards to the fastening element 50. As stated before, the fastening elements 50 may have one or more connections 58 in each wall 56, 56′. Therefore, the fastening elements 50 are prepared to receive at least one folding structure unit 20 per wall 56, 56′.
The fastening elements 50 are provided as relief devices for a large amount of folding structure units 20. That is, if a broad or large area is to be covered with the transportable and foldable structure 2, then fastening elements 50 need to be used, since otherwise transportation of the transportable and foldable structure would be difficult. Furthermore, the fastening elements 50 are used as nodes 60, that is, if a broad or large area is to be covered with the transportable and foldable structure 2 fastening elements need to be used so that each foldable structure unit 20 does not fold or vibrate when the transportable and foldable structure 2 is installed.
When two or more coupling and folding structure units 20, 120 which are substantially co-lineal are present, the actuating devices 36, 136 between the first folding structure unit 20 and the second folding structure unit 120 may be connected to each other, so that when one of the at least two actuating devices 36, 136 is actuated, the at least two folding structure units 20, 120 may be simultaneously extended or folded as above described. Reels (not shown) may be added to the actuating devices 36, 136 so as to coil or uncoil the actuating devices 36, 136.
When more than four coupling and folding structure units 20, 120, 220, 20′ which are substantially co-lineal are present, the actuating devices 36, 136, 236, 36′ between the first coupling and folding structure unit 20, the second coupling and folding structure unit 120, the third coupling and folding structure unit 220 and fourth coupling and folding structure unit 20′, may be connected to each other, so that when one of the at least one actuating devices 36 or 36′ which is in the end of the transportable and foldable structure 2 is actuated, the at least four folding structure units 20, 120, 220, 20′ may be simultaneously extended or folded as above described. Reels (not shown) may be added to the actuating devices 36, 136, 236, 36′ so as to coil or uncoil the actuating devices 36, 136, 236, 36′.
When a first pair 62 of two or more folding structure units 20, 120 which are substantially co-lineal are present, and when second pair 64 of two or more folding structure units 20′, 120′ which are substantially co-lineal between themselves and which are substantially parallel to the first pair 62 of folding structure units, hence the first pair 62 of folding structure units may be substantially parallel to the second pair 64 of folding structure units, the first pair 62 of folding structure units may be intercalated in position with the second pair 64 of folding structure units with regards to the fixed elements 4, 4′ of the construction 6. That is, since in the first pair 62 both folding structure units 20, 120 are coupled by means of the first coupling and folding device 130′ of the second coupling and folding structure unit 120 and the fixing element 26, 28, and since the first coupling and folding device 130 is coupled sideways with regards to the fixing element 26, then the coupling means have a determined width. Given that the coupling means have a determined width, both folding structure units 20, 120′ are substantially co-lineal with each other, however not necessarily co-lineal with the fixed elements 4, 4′. The same may be applied for the second pair 64. That is, the first pair 62 of folding structure units intercalates with the second pair 64 of folding structure units in the point where the first and second pairs 62, 64 of coupling and folding structure units are coupled together, that is, in the respective first coupling and folding device 130′ of both the first and second pairs 62, 64 of substantially co-lineal folding structure units.
Therefore, a transportable and foldable structure 2 may be formed by multiple folding devices 20 some of which are substantially co-lineal and some of which are substantially parallel. For installation purposes, depending on the area to be covered by the transportable and foldable structure 2, the transportable and foldable structure 2 is transported in a vehicle 12 which is capable of setting at least a first fixing element 26 proximate to a first fixed element 4 of the construction. The first fixing element 26 is coupled to the first fixed element 4 of the construction. At least a first part of the transportable and foldable structure 2 is then extended in a substantially horizontal manner by means of the actuating devices 36. Specifically at least a first pair 62 of substantially co-lineal folding structure units and a second pair 64 of substantially co-lineal folding structure units, which are substantially parallel to the first pair 62 of folding structure units are extended. These first and second pair 62, 64 of folding transportable and foldable structures 2 may then coupled to another first and second pair 62, 64 of folding transportable and foldable structure by means of a fastening element 50. These newly coupled first and second pair 62, 64 of folding transportable and foldable structures are again deployed. This is carried out continuously until the transportable and foldable structure 2 is complete. Finally, a second fixing element 28 is placed proximate to a second fixed element 4′ of the construction. The second fixing element 28 is coupled to the second fixed element 4′ of the construction.
Alterations to the structure described in the present, shall be able to be foreseen by those with expertise in the field. However, it must be understood, that the present description is related with the preferred embodiments of the invention, which are solely for illustrative purposes, and must not be construed as a limitation of the invention. All modifications which do not depart from the spirit of the invention are included within the body of the attached claims.
This application claims the benefit of provisional application Serial No. 61/324,836 filed on Apr. 16, 2010.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61324836 | Apr 2010 | US |
