US20090313925A1

US20090313925A1 - Modular building system

Info

Publication number: US20090313925A1
Application number: US12/132,995
Authority: US
Inventors: Victoria Lyons; Kitt Samuel
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: SHELTER TECHNOLOGIES Inc
Priority date: 2007-06-05
Filing date: 2008-06-04
Publication date: 2009-12-24

Abstract

Disclosed is a modular building system for configuring a building structure. The modular building system includes a foundation member, a plurality of wall members, a plurality of wall-retaining members and a roofing member. The foundation member has a plurality of engaging members that engages with a plurality of complementary engaging members of wall members. The foundation member and the wall members are detachably attached as the engaging members and the complementary engaging members engage to each other and create a space with a top opening. The adjacent wall members are attached by a plurality of the wall-retaining members. Further, the wall member includes a plurality of engagement members that engages with a plurality of complementary engagement members provided on the roofing member to detachably attach the plurality of engagement members on top portion of the plurality of wall members for covering the top opening, thereby configuring the building structure.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present invention claims priority under 35 United States Code, Section 119 on the U.S. Provisional Patent Application numbered 60/933,411 filed on Jun. 5, 2007, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to modular buildings, and more particularly, to structural elements for use in construction of the modular buildings.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In present scenarios, the building construction field is generally labor and cost intensive. Construction of a building further requires involvement of a considerable amount of time. To reduce the factors such as labor, cost and time involvement in the construction of the building, prefabrication systems have been proven as one of the potential solutions. A typical prefabrication system involves prefabricated structures that are erected together to form a building structure.
Existing prefabrication systems fall into two major categories, namely, wood and aluminum frame prefabrication systems, and concrete prefabrication system. The wood and aluminum frame prefabrication systems are limited to low density suburban housing and where ground conditions are stable and dry. The wood and aluminum frame prefabrication systems are not suitable to those areas where the ground conditions are erosive and wet. The wood and aluminum frame prefabrication systems involve wood and aluminum frame structures and a foundation on which a building structure is formed by erecting the wood and the aluminum frame structures. The wood and aluminum frame structures and the foundation are generally light-weight. In case of the ground conditions being erosive and wet, light-weight foundation of such a building structure may not withstand and may result in collapsing of the building structure, thereby resulting in injuries to individuals living in the building structure. Further, the concrete prefabrication system is more appropriate for urban buildings due to fire and structural safety requirements.
These prefabrication systems have not been exploited to a great extent. More specifically, these prefabrication systems are exploited in commercial construction sectors of industry, but in case of residential construction sector of the industry, their use is very limited. Most of the prefabrication systems include structural systems such as, walls and floors, which do not solve architectural design needs of users. In addition to not being user or market oriented to any substantial degree, these prefabrication systems tend to be costly, require expensive erection and dismantling cost. Due to these reasons, such prefabrication systems have been unsuitable for applications in both commercial and residential construction sectors.
Apart from the above, building structures made by such prefabricated structures suffer from several disadvantages, such as cracking due to inclement weather conditions, which result into wear and tear to the building structures and often lead to leaks, creaks and structural damage. Further, inadequate and ineffective insulation to noise, heat and cold is one of the major problems in such building structures. Also, existing designs of such building structures are generally of a temporary nature and may not be easily customized to meet requirements of change in sizes and places of the building structures.
Furthermore, the portability of such prefabricated structures can be another problem because of their weight, complexity of structure and the danger of rupture of the prefabricated structures while transporting. The prefabricated structures are often required in areas where accommodation is needed in an emergency or on a temporary basis, such as in natural disasters areas, refugee camps and military bases. Oftentimes, such prefabricated structures need to be rapidly transported and erected to provide emergency habitable structures within a required time. Such prefabricated structures may not be easily and quickly erected to meet demands for such structures without a great deal of manpower, within the required time.
Accordingly, there is a need for prefabricated structures that can be used in dry as well as in wet and erosive ground conditions. Further, there is a need for all-purpose prefabricated structures that can be exploited by both the residential and commercial construction sectors of industry. Furthermore, there is a need for prefabricated structures that may be easily erected and dismantled. The prefabricated structures should also be reconfigurable to meet requirements of changes in size or place of a building structure, and should also meet requirements depending on need of long-term or permanent applications. The prefabricated structures should also be readily transportable. Moreover, the prefabricated structures should further be capable of withstanding poor weather conditions and of providing insulation to noise, heat and cold.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the prior art, the general purpose of the present invention is to provide prefabricated building structures such as a modular building system for configuring a building structure that is configured to include all advantages of the prior art, and to overcome the drawbacks inherent therein.
An object of the present invention is to provide a modular building system that may be utilized for constructing buildings for residential, commercial and emergency accommodation purposes, in areas such as, coastal areas, suburban housing areas and urban buildings areas. Further, the modular building system may be utilized to construct buildings independent of the nature of ground.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a modular building system that may be easily erected and dismantled, and may be customizable to meet changing requirements in size and needs of long-term or permanent applications of buildings, or places of the buildings.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a modular building system that may be able to withstand poor weather conditions and may provide insulation from noise, heat and cold.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide a modular building system that may be readily transportable.
To achieve the above objects, in an aspect of the present invention, a modular building system for configuring a building structure is provided. The modular building system comprises a foundation member, a plurality of wall members, a plurality of wall-retaining members and a roofing member. The foundation member has a plurality of engaging members. Further, each of the plurality of wall members has a plurality of complementary engaging members on a bottom portion and a plurality of engagement member on a top portion. The complementary engaging members enable the wall members to be detachably attached to the foundation member by engaging with the engaging members. The attachments of the wall members and the foundation member configure a space therebetween above the foundation member with a top opening. Furthermore, the plurality of wall-retaining members is adapted to be detachably attached with the plurality of wall members. Each of the plurality of wall-retaining members is detachably attached to the foundation member. More particularly, each of the plurality of wall-retaining members extends vertically from a top surface of the foundation member, and between at least two adjacent wall members of the plurality of wall members for configuring a detachable attachment therebetween. Further, the roofing member having complementary engagement members is adapted to be detachably attached to the plurality of engagement members of the plurality of wall members providing for covering the top opening to configure the building structure.
These together with the other aspects of the present invention, along with the various feature of novelty that characterized the present invention, are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and form a part of the present invention. For a better understanding of the present invention, its operating advantages, and the specified object attained by its uses, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The advantages and features of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following detailed description and claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like elements are identified with like symbols, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a building structure constructed by a modular building system, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the building structure of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 3A and 3B, respectively illustrate a top view and a cross sectional view of a foundation member of the modular building system, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3C illustrates a perspective view of an anchoring pin, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 3D and 3E illustrate perspective views of holding pins, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of a wall member of the modular building system, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4B illustrates a sectional view of the wall member along X-X′;

FIG. 4C illustrates a side view of an insertion plug, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4D illustrates a front view of an inner wall panel of the wall member, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4E illustrates a perspective view of a groove cover, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4F illustrates a front view of the groove cover covering a groove of the inner wall panel, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5A illustrates a top view of a dual wall-retaining member, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view of a dual wall-retaining member of FIG. 5A, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5C illustrates a sectional view of the dual wall-retaining member along Y-Y′, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 5D to 5G illustrate top views of various types of wall-retaining members, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates a top assembled view of different types of wall-retaining members and wall members, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of a roofing member of the modular building system, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of a triangular roof section, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 7C to 7F illustrate various parts of the roofing members, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and

FIGS. 7G to 7I illustrates various types of attaching members provided on the roofing members, according to alternate embodiments of the present invention.

Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the description of several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

For a thorough understanding of the present invention, reference is to be made to the following detailed description, including the appended claims, in connection with the above-described drawings. Although the present invention is described in connection with exemplary embodiments, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the specific forms set forth herein. It is understood that various omissions and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render expedient, but these are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
The term “first”, “second”, “top”, “bottom”, “inner”, “outer” and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another, and the terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced item.
The present invention provides a modular building system for configuring a building structure for residential, commercial and emergency accommodation purposes. The modular building system comprises a plurality of modular structures, such as a foundation member, a plurality of wall members, a plurality of wall-retaining members and a roof members that are assembled together to configure the building structure that may be used as residential and commercial purpose in case of emergency as well as a permanent shelter. Further, the building structure may be disassembled back into the plurality of modular structures, and may be transported to required construction locations.
The modular building system for configuring the building structure, such as a building structure 1000 is shown in FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The modular building system for configuring the building structure 1000 (hereinafter referred to as “building 1000”) comprises a foundation member 100, a plurality of wall members, such as wall members 200, a plurality of wall-retaining members, such as wall-retaining members 300, and a roofing member 400. The wall members 200 may be cut to configure at least one opening, such as an opening “A”. The opening “A” provides entrance into the building 1000. Further, the wall members 200 may be cut to configure at least one open space, such as an open space “B”. The open space “B” is provided to maintain proper ventilation within the building 1000. The opening “A” and the open space “B”, respectively are illustrated for exemplary purposes and it will be evident to a person skilled in the art that the building 1000 may include various such openings and open spaces for providing entrance and ventilation. The opening “A” and the open space “B” may be closed by a door “D” and a window “W”, respectively.
The modular building system used in the construction of the building 1000 may be understood with the help of FIG. 2. FIG. 2 represents an exploded view of the building 1000. The foundation member 100 comprises a foundation base 102 and a foundation floor 104. Further, the foundation member 100 may also comprise a weighting material 106 for providing weighting to the foundation member 100. Further, the foundation member 100 is anchored by a plurality of anchoring pins, such as anchoring pins 500. The detailed description of the foundation base 102, the foundation floor 104, the weighting material 106 and the anchoring pins 500 is provided in conjunction with FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C.
The foundation member 100 comprises a plurality of engaging members 108 utilized to detachably attach the foundation member 100 to the wall members 200. Each of the wall members 200 comprises a plurality of complementary engaging members 202. The complementary engaging members 202 of a wall member 200 enable the wall member 200 to be detachably attached to the foundation member 100 by engaging with the engaging members 108 thereon. When the wall members 200 are attached to the foundation member 100, a space (not shown) with a top opening (not shown) is created therebetween. The wall members 200 and the complementary engaging members 202 are further described in detail in conjunction with FIGS. 4A and 4B. The wall members 200 attached on the foundation member 100 may be detachably attached by the wall-retaining members 300. The wall-retaining member 300 is adapted to detachably attach at least two wall members, such as the wall members 200. The wall-retaining member 300 is also detachably attached to the foundation member 100.
More particularly, the wall-retaining member 300 extends vertically from the foundation member 100 to the roofing member 400, and between at least two adjacent wall members 200 for configuring a detachable attachment therebetween. The wall-retaining member 300 will be explained in detail in conjunction with FIGS. 5A to 5G. Furthermore, the wall members 200 and the wall-retaining members 300 are tapped to the foundation member 100 by a plurality of holding pins 600 and 620. A detailed description of the holding pins 600 and 620 is further provided in conjunction with FIGS. 3D and 3E, respectively.
The roofing member 400 is detachably attached above the wall members 200 to cover the top opening, thereby configuring the building 1000. The detailed description of the roofing member 400 is provided in conjunction with FIGS. 7A to 7I. Further, the modular building system may also comprise a foot section 700 that may be kept at the foundation floor 104 at places, where the wall members 200 are cut for openings, such as opening “A” and open space “B”.
Referring now to 3A and 3B, a top view and a cross sectional view of the foundation member 100, are shown, respectively, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Herein, references are made of FIG. 2 for the description of the foundation member 100. Without departing from the scope of the present invention, the foundation member 100 is preferably of a square shape foundation member or a rectangular shape foundation member for configuring the building 1000, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The shape of the foundation member 100 as shown in FIG. 3A is for exemplary purposes only, and should not be contemplated as limiting.
The foundation member 100 comprises the foundation base 102 and the foundation floor 104. The foundation base 102 includes a first projecting portion 110 that is substantially thick. The first projecting portion 110 extends vertically upward from a periphery of the foundation base 102 in a manner such that a cavity 118 is formed therebetween as shown in FIG. 3B. The first projecting portion 110 includes a plurality of through holes such as a through hole 112 (hereinafter referred to as ‘hole 112’). The hole 112 extends from a top surface 114 to a bottom surface 116 of the first projecting portion 110. The hole 112 is capable of receiving the anchoring pin 500 as shown in FIG. 2. The anchoring pin 500 is further described in conjunction with FIG. 3C. The placement and number of holes, such as the hole 112 as illustrated in FIG. 3A, is for purpose of understanding only, and may not considered as limiting to only as illustrated in FIG. 3B. It will be evident to a person skilled in the art that the holes may be configured at suitable positions on the first projecting portion 110, extending from the top surface 114 to the bottom surface 116. Further, a lesser or greater number of holes may be configured than the hole 112 shown in the FIGS. 3A and 3B.
Referring now to FIG. 3C, the anchoring pin 500 is represented. The anchoring pin 500 may be made of materials including, but not limited to, high density polyethylene (HDPE). The anchoring pin 500 is configured such that it may pass through the hole 112 into the ground. In the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 3C, the anchoring pin 500 includes a head area 502 and a tail area 504. The head area 502 is substantially thicker than the tail area 504. The head area 502 includes a tapping cap 506 at a top portion thereof. The anchoring pin 500 is inserted into the hole 112 from the tail area 504. The anchoring pin 500 may be inserted into the hole 112 by using a mallet (not shown) or a pin awl (not shown) until a portion of the tail area 504 is inserted into the ground, and the tapping cap 506 rests on the first projecting portion 110 to anchor the foundation base 102 into the ground. The inserted portion of the tail area 504 provides stable anchoring to the foundation base 102.
Referring again to FIGS. 2, 3A and 3B, the cavity 118 is provided to receive the weighting material 106, which provides extra weight and stability to the foundation base 102. The weighting material 106 may be any heavy material such as gravel, sand, dirt, cement, water, and the like. In one embodiment, the weighting material 106 may be placed into the cavity 118 to provide extra weight to the foundation base 102 to keep the foundation base 102 in place. The weighting material 106 may be used in conjunction with the anchoring pins 500 or in lieu of the anchoring pins 500 in places where the ground conditions are too wet or soggy for the anchoring pins 500 to be effective.
The weighting material 106 is either placed or not placed in the cavity 118, depending upon the nature of the selected ground. The cavity 118 needs to be closed for providing suitable flooring to the foundation base 102. The foundation floor 104 is provided on the foundation base 102 in a manner such that the foundation floor 104 covers the cavity 118. The foundation floor 104 may be provided over the foundation base 102 in a variety of manners. In one embodiment of the present invention, a second projecting portion 120 is formed adjacent to the first projecting portion 110. More specifically, the second projecting portion 120 extends vertically upward from the foundation base 102, and further, extends horizontally adjacent to the first projecting portion 110 for configuring a channel 122 therebetween. Further, the foundation floor 104 includes a projecting member 124 extending vertically downward from a periphery of the foundation floor 104. The projecting member 124 is adapted to snugly fit into the channel 122 providing covering to the cavity 118, thereby configuring the foundation member 100.
Further, the engaging members 108 as described herein above are provided on the top surface 114 of the first projecting portion 110. The engaging members 108 are capable of detachably attaching to the wall members 200. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3A, the engaging members 108 are a plurality of recessed indentations provided on the top surface 114 of the first projecting portion 110. Each of the plurality of recessed indentations is spaced apart from one another on the top surface 114 of the first projecting portion 110. In another embodiment, the engaging member 108 may be a teethed prolongation that may be provided on the top surface 114 of the first projecting portion 110.
Further, the foundation member 100 comprises a plurality of retaining recesses, such as a retaining recess 128 provided at each corner of the square-shaped or the rectangular shaped foundation member 100. More particularly, the retaining recess 128 is provided on each corner of the top surface 114 of the first projecting portion 110. The retaining recess 128 is capable of receiving a portion of the wall-retaining member 300 for detachably attaching the wall-retaining member 300 to the foundation member 100. The detachable attachment of the wall-retaining member 300 with the foundation member 100 is further described in conjunction with FIGS. 5A to 5G.
Furthermore, the foundation member 100 includes a longitudinal through hole 130 (hereinafter referred to as ‘hole 130’) extending along a length of the foundation member 100. More particularly, the hole 130 extends from one corner portion of the first projecting portion 110 to another corner portion of the first projecting portion 110. The placement and number of holes, such as the hole 130, as illustrated in FIG. 3A, are for the exemplary purposes only, and should not be considered as limiting. It will be evident to a person skilled in the art to rearrange the placement of the holes 130, and utilize a lesser or greater number of holes 130 depending upon the requirement. The hole 130 is capable of receiving the holding pins 600 and 620. The holding pin 600 or the holding pin 620 may be inserted in the hole 130, when the wall members 200 fit onto the foundation member 100. A perspective view of the holding pins 600 and 620, are respectively shown in FIGS. 3D and 3E, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The holding pins 600 and 620 may be preferably made of material including, but not limited to, rigid HDPE (high density polyethylene).
Referring specifically to FIG. 3D, the holding pin 600 includes a head area 602 and a tail area 604. The head area 602 includes O- rings 606 a and 606 b, and a snap knob 608 disposed therebetween. Similarly, the tail area 604 includes O- rings 610 a and 610 b and a snap knob 612 disposed therebetween. Each of the O- rings 606 a, 606 b, 610 a and 610 b is a loop of an elastomer with a round (O-shaped) cross-section. The holding pin 600 is inserted into the hole 130 from the tail area 604 by using a mallet (not shown) or a pin awl (not shown) until the O- rings 606 a, 606 b, 610 a and 610 b, and the snap knobs 608 and 612 sit in the hole 130, thereby engaging the wall member 200 and the wall-retaining member 300 with the foundation base 102. More particularly, the O- rings 606 a, 606 b, 610 a and 610 b, and the snap knobs 608 and 612 are compressed to sit into the hole 130 for configuring a proper assembly, and creating a seal therebetween, in order to provide a stable engagement between the foundation member 100 and the wall member 200.
Similar to the holding pin 600, the holding pin 620 includes a head area 622 and a tail area 624 as shown in FIG. 3E. The head area 620 includes O- rings 626 a and 626 b, and a snap knob 628 disposed therebetween. Further, a tapped cap 630 is disposed perpendicular to the head area 622 at an end of the holding pin 620, as shown in FIG. 3E. Similar to the head area 622, the tail area 624 includes O- rings 632 a and 632 b and a snap knob 634 disposed therebetween. Each of the O- rings 626 a, 626 b, 632 a and 632 b is a loop of an elastomer with a round (O-shaped) cross-section. Similar to the holding pin 600, the holding pin 620 may be inserted into the hole 130, from the tail area 624. The holding pin 620 may be inserted into the hole 130 by using a mallet (not shown) or a pin awl (not shown) until the O- rings 626 a, 626 b, 632 a and 632 b, and the snap knobs 628 and 630 sit in the hole 130, and the tapped cap 630 rests on a side portion of the foundation base 102.
In one embodiment of the present invention, for engaging the foundation member 100 and the wall members 200, two of each of the holding pins 600 and holding pins 620 are utilized. More specifically, two of the holding pins 600 are inserted completely into any two alternate holes 130 for configuring the stable engagement between the foundation member 100 and corresponding two wall members 200. Further in remaining two alternate holes 130, two of the holding pins 620 are inserted for configuring the stable engagement between the foundation member 100 and remaining two wall members 200. The engagement of the wall members 200 and the foundation member 100 by the holding pins 600 and 620 is further described in conjunction with FIGS. 4A to 4C.
Now referring to FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4C, wherein FIG. 4A particularly illustrates perspective view the wall member 200, FIG. 4B particularly illustrates a cross sectional view of the wall member 200 along X-X′, and FIG. 4C particularly illustrates an insertion plug 228 of a plurality of insertion plugs 228. The wall member 200 further comprises a pair of wall panels 204 and 206, the complementary engaging members 202 and a plurality of engagement members 208. The wall panels 204 and 206 are disposed parallel to each other. Further, the wall panels 204 and 206 are coupled together to configure a double-paneled wall structure with a clearance space 212 therebetween. The wall member 200 has a top portion 214, a bottom portion 216, and vertical side portions 218 and 220. The engagement members 208 are provided on the top portion 214. In one embodiment, the engagement members 208 are particularly recessed indentations. Further, the top portion 214 includes a through hole 222 (hereinafter referred to as ‘hole 222’) extending horizontally from one end portion to another end portion, in a manner such that the hole 222 passes through each of the engagement members 208. The hole 222 is capable of receiving the holding pins 600 and 620 for engaging the wall member 200 with the roofing member 400. The engagement of the engagement members 208 with the roofing member 400 using the holding pins 600 and 620 is described further in conjunction with FIGS. 7A to 7I.
Further, the complementary engaging members 202 are provided on the bottom portion 216 of the wall member 200. In one embodiment, the complementary engaging members 202 are a plurality of teethed prolongations. Each of the complementary engaging members 202 includes a through hole 224 (hereinafter referred to as ‘hole 224’) extending horizontally along each of the complementary engaging members 202. The hole 224 is capable of receiving the holding pins 600 and 620 for engaging the wall member 200 with the foundation member 100. The engaging members 108 of the foundation member 100 are adapted to be engaged with the complementary engaging members 202 for vertically disposing the wall member 200 onto the top surface 114 of the foundation member 100. The engagement of the foundation member 100 and the wall member 200 by engaging the engaging members 108 and the complementary engaging members 202 enables the hole 130 and the hole 224 to align with each other. In one embodiment, the alignment of the hole 130 and the hole 224 provide a passage (not shown) that allows the holding pins 600 or 620 to pass therethrough, thereby providing stable engagement between the foundation member 100 and the wall member 200. The holding pin 600 is inserted by using a mallet (not shown) and a pin awl (not shown) until the O- rings 606 a, 606 b, 610 a and 610 b, and the snap knobs 608 and 612 sit in the passage. Similarly, the passage provided by the alignment of the holes 130 and 224 also allows the holding pin 620 to pass therethrough in a similar fashion. As described in conjunction with FIGS. 3D and 3E, the holding pins 600 and 620 are inserted in adjacent passages created by joining the holes 130 and 224. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that a plurality of wall members, such as the wall members 200 may be detachably attached to a foundation member, such as the foundation member 100 by using a plurality of holding pins 600 and 620. Further, the wall member 200 is detachably coupled to the roofing member 400 as described in conjunction with FIGS. 7A to 7I.
Further, as shown in FIG. 4B, the wall panel 204 is a flat outer wall panel (hereinafter referred to as “outer wall panel 204”) and the wall panel 206 is a flat inner wall panel (hereinafter referred to as “inner wall panel 206”). The outer wall panel 204 includes a plurality of through holes, such as through holes 226 (hereinafter referred to as ‘holes 226’). In one embodiment, the holes 226 are adapted to provide a passage to fill the clearance space 212 with an insulation material (not shown). The insulation material may be materials such as foam, cotton, and the like. The insulation material is filled into the clearance space 212 using the plurality of insertion plugs, such as the insertion plug 228 as shown in FIG. 4C.
FIG. 4C illustrates the insertion plug 228, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The insertion plug 228 includes a first end portion 228 a, a second end portion 228 b, and a rod member 228 c therebetween. The second end portion 228 b is of substantially conical shape that facilities the insertion plug 228 to fill the insulation material into the clearance space 212 through the holes 226. Further, each of the holes 226 is sealed using the insertion plug 228. The first end portion 228 a and the rod member 228 c of the insertion plug 228 are inserted into each of the hole 226, and the second end portion 228 b may rest outside of the outer wall panel 204, thereby providing sealing to each of the holes 226. The structure of the insertion plug 228 as disclosed hereinabove is for purpose of understanding of sealing of the holes 226, and filling the clearance space 212. However, it will be evident to a person skilled in the art to use any other mechanism known in the art to use for sealing through holes, such as the holes 226, and filling a clearance space, such as the clearance space 212. The filling of the clearance space 212 with the insulation material provides a significant insulation to the building 1000 from outside environmental conditions such as, heat, cold and sound.
A front view of the inner wall panel 206 of the wall member 200 is shown in FIG. 4D. The inner wall panel 206 includes a plurality of grooves, such as grooves 230. The grooves 230 extend vertically on the inner wall panel 206 with a substantial space therebetween. In an embodiment, the grooves 230 include a plurality of pair of protrusions, such as a pair of protrusions 232, extending from various positions of peripheries of the grooves 230. In one embodiment of the present invention, the grooves 230 are capable of incorporating home appliance, such as plumbing-unit and electric wiring, cabinets, fixtures, closets, counters, and the like. The grooves 230 may be covered by a plurality of groove covers 234 (see FIG. 4E) for safety and security from the electric wiring and the plumbing-unit. An exemplary representation of the groove cover 234 covering the groove 230 of the inner wall panel 206 is represented in FIG. 4F.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the design of the grooves 230 and the groove cover 234 may be modified, depending upon the nature of the plumbing-unit, electric wiring and other home appliances. Further, the grooves 230 are capable of incorporating the fixtures and the cabinets depending upon requirements of the individuals living in the building 1000. Grooves, such as the grooves 230 are capable of configuring the cabinets and the closets inside the building 1000. More specifically, the cabinets or the closets may be especially designed to include engaging means at their back side. The engaging means may be engaged within the grooves 230 to provide support to the cabinets or the closets onto the inner wall panel 206.
Referring now to FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C, a wall-retaining member, such as the wall-retaining member 300, is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5A represents a top view of the wall-retaining member 300, the FIG. 5B represents an exploded perspective view of the wall-retaining member 300, and FIG. 5C represents a cross sectional view of the wall-retaining member 300 along Y-Y′. Herein, references will be made of the previous figures to describe the configuration and functioning of the wall-retaining member 300. The wall-retaining member 300 comprises a plurality of panels, such as panels 302, 304 and 310 disposed on a spine 306. The panels 302 and 304 configure a slot 308 therebetween. Similarly, the panel 310 and the panel 304 configure a slot 312 therebetween. At least one of the panels, such as the panel 302 and the panel 310 are detachably attached to the spine 306, whereas the panel 304 may be permanently fixed to the spine 306 in order to configure the slots 308 and 312. For detachable attachment of the panel 302 and the spine 306, the spine 306 includes a plurality of recesses 314, equally spaced apart from each other and provided on a surface 316 of the spine 306. Further, the panel 302 includes a plurality of protruded members 318. The recesses 314 are capable of receiving the protruded members 318, thereby engaging the panel 302 to the spine 306 and configuring the slot 308 between the panel 302 and the panel 304.
Similarly, the spine 306 includes a plurality of recesses 319 equally spaced apart from each other on a surface 320 of the spine 306. Further, similar to the panel 302, the panel 310 includes a plurality of protruded members 322. The recesses 319 are capable of receiving the protruded members 322, thereby engaging the panel 310 to the spine 306 and configuring the slot 312 between the panel 310 and the panel 304.
In one embodiment, the recesses 318 and 319 are L-shaped recesses, and the protruded member 318 and 322 are also L-shaped protruded members that respectively act as female and male members. The wall-retaining member 300 as illustrated in FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C, is particularly a dual type of wall-retaining member that has two slots 308 and 312. Each of the slots 308 and 312 are capable of receiving a portion of the wall member 200. More particularly, each of the slots 308 and 312 are capable of receiving vertical side portions, such as the vertical side portion 218 or 220 (see FIG. 4A) of the wall member 200. Therefore, the wall-retaining member 300 is capable of attaching two wall members such as the wall members 200.
Further, the wall-retaining member 300 includes a retaining-recessed indentation 324 at a top portion 326, as shown in FIG. 5B. Through holes 328 and 330 are provided on the top portion 326, and pass through the retaining-recessed indentation 324. Similarly, the wall-retaining member 300 includes a retaining-teethed prolongation 332 at a bottom portion 334. Through holes 336 and 338 are provided on the bottom portion 334, and pass through the retaining-teethed prolongation 332. The retaining-teethed prolongation 332 fits into the retaining recess 128 provided at each of the corner portion of the foundation member 100 for engaging the wall-retaining member 300 with the foundation member 100.
The wall-retaining member 300 is provided at each corner of the foundation member 100 in a similar manner as described above. Therefore, the through hole 328 of each the wall-retaining member 300 is aligned to the hole 222 of the wall member 200, and the holding pin 600 or the holding pin 620 may be inserted within aligned holes 328 and 222. Similarly, the through holes 330 of each the wall-retaining member 300 is aligned to the hole 222 of the wall member 200, and the holding pin 600 or the holding pin 620 may be inserted within aligned holes 330 and 222. Similarly, the through holes 336 and 338 align with the holes 224 of the wall member 200 and the hole 130 of the foundation member 100. Further, holding pins 600 or the holding pin 620 may be inserted within aligned holes 336, 224 and 130, and aligned holes 338, 224 and 130.
The wall-retaining member 300 as illustrates in FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C, is particularly a dual type of wall-retaining member having two slots 308 and 312, which are capable of receiving a portion of the wall member 200, thereby detachably coupling two wall members 200. For erecting more than the two such wall member 200, various other wall-retaining members, such as a triple wall-retaining member 340 member, a quadruple wall-retaining member 350, and the like may be used. Further, two wall members 200 may also be connected in a straight line by using a straight wall-retaining member 360.
FIGS. 5D, 5E and 5F, respectively, illustrate top views of the triple wall-retaining member 340, the quadruple wall-retaining member 350, and the straight wall-retaining member 360. The triple wall-retaining member 340 is capable of receiving three wall members, such as the wall members 200 between the slots 342, 344 and 346. Similarly, the quadruple wall-retaining member 350 is capable of receiving four wall members, such as the wall members 200 between the slots 352, 354, 356 and 358. Furthermore, similar to the triple wall-retaining member 340 and the quadruple wall-retaining member 350, the straight wall-retaining member 360 is capable of receiving two wall members, such as the wall members 200 between the slots 362 and 364. Further, in FIG. 5G, according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention, a dual wall-retaining member 370 is illustrated. Similar to the wall-retaining member 300, the dual wall-retaining member 370 is capable of receiving two wall members, such as the wall members 200 between slots 372 and 374.
In FIG. 6, a top view of an assembled room configuration 2000 has been illustrated, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The room configuration 2000 includes a plurality of wall members, such as the wall members 200 joined by a plurality of wall-retaining members, such as the double wall-retaining members 300, the triple wall-retaining members 340, and the quadruple wall-retaining member 350. The quadruple wall-retaining member 350 is provided at center to erect four wall members 200 that are supported by the triple wall-retaining members 340 at other ends. A triple wall-retaining member 340 incorporates two wall members 200 opposite to each other. Furthermore, the dual wall-retaining members 300 are provided at the corners of the assembled room configuration 2000 to engage the wall members 200 extending from the triple wall-retaining members 340, thereby engaging the wall members 200 and configuring the assembled room configuration 2000.
Referring now to FIGS. 7A and 7B, a perspective view of a roof member, such as the roofing member 400, and a perspective view of a portion of triangular roof sections, respectively, are illustrated, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The roofing member 400 is configured by coupling a plurality of triangular roof sections, such as triangular roof sections 402 a-d. The triangular roof sections 402 a-d are detachably coupled by using a plurality of attaching members. The plurality of attaching means are particularly shown in FIG. 7B. For example, an attaching member 404 a is provided on a side surface 404 a ₁of the triangular roof section 402 a, and an attaching member 404 b is provided on a side surface 404 b, of the triangular roof section 402 b.
The triangular roof sections 402 a and 402 b are attached by the attaching members 404 a and 404 b for configuring a section of the roofing member 400. The attaching member 404 a includes a rubber sealing strip 406, a grooved section 408 and a tapered cut portion 412 above the rubber sealing strip 406. Each of the rubber sealing strip 406, a grooved section 408 and a tapered cut portion 412 extends longitudinally along the surface 404 a ₁. Similarly, the attaching member 404 b includes a rubber sealing strip 414, a grooved section 416 and a tapered cut portion 418, extending longitudinally along the side surface 404 b, of the triangular roof section 402 b.
The rubber sealing strip 406 of the triangular roof section 402 a is configured to be received into the grooved section 416 of the triangular roof section 402 b, and the rubber sealing strip 414 of the triangular roof section 402 b is configured to be received into the grooved section 408 of the triangular roof section 402 a. Therefore, the triangular roof sections 402 a and 402 b may be joined as shown in FIG. 7C. FIG. 7C is a side view the triangular roof section 402 a and the triangular roof section 402 b in a joined position.
As shown in FIG. 7C, the tapered cut portions 412 and 418 of the triangular roof sections 402 a and 402 b, respectively, combine to form a cut portion 420 substantially similar to an arrow head. The cut portion 420 is capable of incorporating a weather stripping 422, thereby providing covering to the joining. Similar to the triangular roof sections 402 a and 402 b, the triangular roof section 402 c and 402 d incorporate similar attaching member, and are joined in similar fashion. Further, weather stripping 422 is joined in similar fashion as described above for weatherproofing and waterproofing. Further, the triangular roof section 402 a and the triangular roof section 402 d, and the triangular roof section 402 b and triangular roof section 402 d are coupled to form the roofing member 400. Joining the triangular roof sections 402 a-d configure the roofing member 400 having a substantially dome-shaped structure with an apex opening 426 as shown in FIG. 7D.
A covering to the apex opening 426 is provided by at least one covering member, such as a covering member 428 as shown in FIG. 7F. The covering member 428 is a pyramid-shaped apex covering member, according to an embodiment of the present invention. More particularly, the covering member 428 is securely fastened into the apex opening 426. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7F, the covering member 428 includes a top portion 428 a, a block 428 b and a bottom portion 428 c. The block 428 b is placed between the top portion 428 a and the bottom portion 428 c. On fastening the covering member 428 into the apex opening 426, the block 428 b and the bottom portion 428 c sit into the apex opening 426, and the top portion 428 a provides covering to the apex opening 426. The covering member 428 provides sealing to the apex opening 426, making the roofing member 400 weatherproof and waterproof.
The roofing member 400 is detachably coupled to the wall members 200 by using a plurality of complementary engagement members, such as complementary engagement members 403 as shown in FIG. 7B. More particularly, the complementary engagement members 403 are configured at a bottom portion 424 (shown particularly in FIG. 7E) of the substantially dome-shaped structure. The complementary engagement members 403 are capable of being engaged with the engagement members 208 provided on the top portion 214 of the wall member 200. In one embodiment of the present invention, the complementary engagement members 403 are a plurality of teethed prolongations, and the engagement members 208 are a plurality of recessed indentations (see FIG. 4A). It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the complementary engagement members 403 may also be the plurality of recessed indentations and the engagement members 208 may be the plurality of teethed prolongations.
Furthermore, similar to the holes 130 as shown in FIG. 3A, longitudinal through holes 430 (hereinafter referred to as ‘holes 430’) are provided on the complementary engagement member 403. The holes 430 are capable of receiving a plurality of holding pins, such as the holding pins 600 and 620. The holding pin 600 or the holding pin 620 is configured to penetrate in the holes 222 and 430 in an engaged state of the engagement member 208 and the complementary engagement member 403. Herein the engaged state refers to a state where the engagement member 208 and the complementary engagement member 403 are engaged such that the holes 222 and 430 are aligned in one horizontal line. Therefore, by inserting the holding pins 600 or the holding pin 620 into the holes 208 and 430 provides a stable attachment between the roofing member 400 and the wall members 200.
Further, in alternate embodiments of the present invention, the attaching member 404 a and 404 b may be as shown in FIGS. 7G, 7H and 7I. In FIG. 7G, a side view of a triangular roof section 440 with an attaching member 442 is shown. In this embodiment, the attaching member 442 is received into a similar shaped grooved section (not shown) in an adjoining triangular roof section (not shown) in order to attach the triangular roof section 442 and the adjoining triangular roof section. Further, in another embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 7H, a side view of a triangular roof section 450 having an attaching member 452 is shown. In this embodiment, the attaching means 452 sits into a similar shaped grooved section (not shown) in an adjoining triangular roof section (not shown).
Furthermore, in FIG. 7I, a side view of a triangular roof section 460 having an attaching member 462 is shown. The attaching member 462 includes a rubber sealing strip 464 extending longitudinally along a surface 468 of the triangular roof section 460. Further, a tapered cut portion 470 is provided on the surface 468 extending longitudinally along the surface 468. The attaching member 462 is adapted to fit into an opposite shaped grooved section (not shown) in an adjoining triangular roof section (not shown) to configure a roofing member, such as the roofing member 400.
Now referring to FIGS. 1 to 7I, according to an embodiment, a building structure, such as the building 1000 is substantially made of plastic. However, the building 1000 may also be made of material selected from wood, metal, and the like. In making the building 1000 of plastic, the foundation base 102 is anchored by the help of the anchoring pin 500 as described hereinabove. Further, as per situational requirements, the cavity 118 may be filled to provide extra weighting to the foundation base 102. Upon the cavity 118 being filled, or not being filled, as per the requirement, the cavity 118 is covered by the foundation floor 104, thereby configuring the foundation member 100. Further, the wall-retaining members 300 are disposed into the retaining recesses 128 provided at corners of the square-shaped or the rectangular shaped foundation member 100 to join the wall-retaining member 300 with foundation member 100. Further, the wall members 200 are disposed onto the first projecting portion 110 of the periphery of the foundation floor 100 to engage the engaging members 108 of the foundation member 100 and the complementary engaging members 202 of the wall members 200, thereby configuring an engagement between the foundation member 100 and the wall members 200.
Panels 302 and 310 are detachably attached to the spine 306 to support the wall members 200 to provide support to the wall members 200 on the foundation member 100 and between the wall-retaining members 300. Further, the holding pins 600 or the holding pins 620 are inserted into aligned holes, such as the holes 112 of the foundation member 100, the holes 224 of the wall members 200, and the through holes 336 and 338 of the wall-retaining member 300. The holding pins 600 and the holding pins 620 provide a rigid engagement of the foundation member 100, wall members 200 and the wall-retaining member 300. Furthermore, the roofing member 400 with the apex opening 426 is configured by attaching the triangular roof sections 402 a-d. The roofing member 400 is further engaged to the wall members 200, by engaging the engagement members 208 and the complementary engagement members 403. Further, the covering member 428 is provided on the apex opening 426, thereby closing the apex opening 426 for configuring the building 1000.
The building 1000 constructed by the modular building system may be easily dismantled by removing holding pins 600 and 620, and anchoring pins 500 used in assembling of the building 1000. The disassembled parts such as, the foundation member 100, the wall members 200, the wall-retaining members 300 and the roofing members 400 and other parts may be easily transported from one place to the other place. Further, based on the need of the users of the building 1000, the size of the building 1000 and the number of rooms in the building 1000 may be customized based on using the various wall members 200 and the various wall-retaining members such as, the dual wall-retaining member 300 and 370, triple wall-retaining member 340, quadruple wall-retaining member 350, and the like. The building 1000 constructed by the modular building system may be used on a long-term and permanent basis.
The modular building system of the present invention is advantageous in constructing buildings for both residential and commercial purposes in suburban housing areas, urban buildings areas and disaster areas. The modular building system may also be utilized to construct a building structure in wet ground conditions. Further, the modular building system may be easily erected and dismantled. Furthermore, the modular building system is capable of providing insulation against noise, heat and cold, and is capable of withstanding in inadequate weather conditions. Moreover, the modular building system is easily and readily transportable.
The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the present invention and its practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the present invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omission and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstance may suggest or render expedient, but such are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A modular building system for configuring a building structure, the modular building system comprising:

a foundation member having a plurality of engaging members;

a plurality of wall members, each of the plurality of wall members having a plurality of complementary engaging members on a bottom portion and a plurality of engagement members on a top portion of each of the plurality of wall members, the plurality of complementary engaging members enabling the plurality of wall members to be detachably attached to the foundation member by engaging with the plurality of engaging members for configuring a space therebetween with a top opening;

a plurality of wall-retaining members, each of the plurality of wall-retaining members capable of being attached between at least two adjacent wall members of the plurality of wall members for joining the at least two adjacent wall members; and

a roofing member having a plurality of complementary engagement members, the plurality of complementary engagement members capable of being detachably attached to the plurality of engagement member on the top portion of each of the plurality of wall members for covering the top opening.

2. The modular building system of claim 1, wherein the foundation member comprises:

a foundation base comprising a first projecting portion extending vertically upward from a periphery of the foundation base configuring a cavity therebetween, the cavity capable of being filled by a weighting material, the first projecting portion comprising the plurality of engaging members; and

a foundation floor adapted to be disposed on the foundation base for covering the cavity.

3. The modular building system of claim 2, wherein the foundation base further comprises a plurality of through holes configured on the foundation base, each of the plurality of holes capable of receiving an anchoring pin to anchor the foundation base.

4. The modular building system of claim 2, wherein the foundation base further comprises a second projecting portion extending vertically upward from the foundation base, and extending horizontally parallel to the first projecting portion, thereby configuring a channel therebetween.

5. The modular building system of claim 4, wherein the foundation floor comprises a projecting member extending vertically downward from a periphery of the foundation floor, the projecting member capable of being received in the channel configured between the first projecting portion and the second projecting portion of the foundation base.

6. The modular building system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of engaging members is a plurality of recessed indentations spaced apart from each other.

7. The modular building system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of wall members comprises a pair of wall panels having an inner wall and an outer wall disposed parallel to each other and coupled together to configure a double-paneled wall structure with a clearance space between the pair of wall panels, each of the plurality of wall members having a top portion, a bottom portion and vertical side portions, the top portion comprising the plurality of engagement members.

8. The modular building system of claim 7, wherein the plurality of complementary engaging members is a plurality of teethed prolongations and the plurality of engaging members is a plurality of recessed indentations, each of the plurality of teethed prolongations configured to be received into corresponding recessed indentation of the plurality of recessed indentations of the foundation member for vertically disposing each of the plurality of wall members on the foundation member.

9. The modular building system of claim 8, further comprising a plurality of holding pins, each of the plurality of holding pins configured to engage the at least one engaging member and the at least one complementary engaging member by penetrating in a longitudinal through hole configured on the foundation member and each of the at least one complementary engaging member in an engaged state of the at least one engaging member and the at least one complementary engaging member.

10. The modular building system of claim 8, wherein the inner wall of the pair of wall panels comprises a plurality of grooves, the plurality of grooves capable of engaging to at least one home appliance.

11. The modular building system of claim 8, wherein the outer wall of the pair of wall panels comprises a plurality of holes to provide a passage to fill the clearance space by an insulation material.

12. The modular building system of claim 11, wherein the outer wall panel further comprises a plurality of insertion plugs to cover the plurality of holes.

13. The modular building system of claim 7, wherein the pair of wall panels has at least one opening for providing at least one of an entrance means and ventilation means for the building structure.

14. The modular building system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of wall-retaining members comprises at least two longitudinally extending panels attached in a manner to configure a slot therebetween, the slot capable of receiving a vertical side portion of a wall member of the plurality of wall members.

15. The modular building system of claim 14, wherein at least one of the two longitudinally extending panels is detachably attachable to configure the slot.

16. The modular building system of claim 8, wherein the roofing member further comprises:

a plurality of triangular roof sections, each of the plurality of triangular roof sections comprising the complementary engagement members configured on a bottom edge of each of the plurality of the triangular roof sections;

a plurality of attaching members, each of the plurality of attaching members adapted to attach two adjacent triangular roof sections of the plurality of triangular roof sections to configure a dome-shaped structure having an apex opening; and

at least one covering member adapted to cover the apex opening,

wherein the plurality of attaching members detachably attach the plurality of triangular roof sections to configure the dome-shaped structure in a manner such that the plurality of complementary engagement members is capable of being engaged with the engagement members on the top portion of each of the plurality of wall members.

17. The modular building system of claim 16, wherein the plurality of complementary engagement members is a plurality of teethed prolongations, and the plurality of engagement members is a plurality of recessed indentations, each of the plurality of teethed prolongations configured to be received into corresponding recessed indentation of the plurality of recessed indentations of the plurality of wall members for engaging the roofing member to the plurality of wall members.

18. The modular building system of claim 17, further comprising a plurality of holding pins, each of the plurality of holding pins configured to engage the at least one engagement member and the at least one complementary engagement member by penetrating in a longitudinal through hole configured on the top portion of each of the plurality of wall members and each of the at least one complementary engagement member in an engaged state of the at least one engagement member and the at least one complementary engagement member.