Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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A PORTABLE BUILDING STRUCTURE
Technical Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to portable building structures. In particular,
but
not exclusively, the invention concerns a portable building structure with
movable walls
.. and which retains an unswept area at all times.
Background to the Invention
A large variety of portable building structures are known.
Some temporary or semi-permanent building structures are provided in a kit of
prefabricated components which are transported to the desired location and
assembled
on site. Such structures are typically used, for example, as temporary offices
or stores
on a building site.
One problem with the known prefabricated structures of this type is that if
they
are transported already assembled, they tend to be relatively bulky, which
requires a
relatively large vehicle for transport. On the other hand, if the structure is
transported
in a dismantled state, there is a risk that one or more components may go
astray during
storage or transport and/or there could be difficulties in assembling such a
complex
product.
Portable prefabricated structures, such as mobile homes, have been used to
provide temporary or semi-permanent building space. However, as the size of
the
structure increases, the ease with which they can be transported is reduced.
Large
structures have to be divided into parts and transported separately on
oversized trucks.
When not in use, the structures require significant space for storing.
A number of folding structures have been devised to improve the
transportability and space problems. Two structures are shown in U.S. Patent
Nos.
4,545,171 and 4,891,919.
U.S. Patent No. 4,545,171 discloses a structure having hinged roofs, floors
and
walls. Although its collapsible design makes it easier to transport, this
structure requires
specialized handling in transit. The structure also requires a concrete
foundation, which
can defeat any advantage for use as a temporary structure. The structure is
designed to
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be permanently installed with various components being attached with nails and
bolts.
The interior surfaces, such as walls, paint, wallpaper, floors, and carpets
are installed
after assembly.
U.S. Patent No. 4,891,919 discloses a house erected from and supported by a
standard size cargo shipping container with hinged walls and floor panels.
After the
wall and floor panels are unfolded, the roof and end walls, which are
transported inside
the container, are removed and assembled to complete the house. Although
transportation of the structure is simplified by the use of a standard size
cargo shipping
container, the complexity of assembly is increased through the use of the
separable parts
for the roof and walls which need to be lifted into position and attached. The
description
states that assembly generally will take five days with four people. A
specialized
foundation is required to support the floor panels above the level of the
container
bottom. The arrangement of the hinges necessitates additional filler pieces to
complete
the floor and side walls.
Embodiments of the invention seek to at least partially overcome or ameliorate
any one or more of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer
with a
useful or commercial choice.
Summary of the Invention
According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a portable
building
structure comprising:
1) a main frame with;
a) a roof;
b) a floor; and
c) at least one upright located at each end of the main frame between the roof
and
floor, the at least one of the upright of each pair spaced inwardly from a
lateral
edge of the roof and the floor, to create a recess, top and bottom of the main
frame, on at least one lateral side;
2) at least one movable roof structure mounted relative to the recess for
movement
between a raised use position and a folded storage position in which the at
least one
movable roof structure at least partially closes a lateral side of the main
frame;
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3) at least one movable floor structure mounted relative to the recess for
movement
between a lowered use position and a folded storage position in which the at
least
one movable floor structure at least partially closes the lateral side of the
main
frame; and
4) at least one moveable wall structure including:
a) an end support;
b) a pair of folding frame walls, one of the pair of folding frame walls at
each end
of the main frame, one of each pair of frame walls mounted relative to the
recess,
a second of each pair mounted to the end support, the folding frame walls
mounting the end support for sliding movement from a storage position within
the recess, to a use position between an outer end of the at least one movable
roof structure and at least one movable floor structure when deployed.
Providing a main frame with a recess on at least one and preferably both
lateral
sides, allows the mounting of at least one movable wall structure within the
recess, and
the at least one movable roof structure and/or at least one movable floor
structure at
least partially within the recess. The at least one movable wall structure can
remain
upright during storage, deployment and use. The at least one movable roof
structure
and/or at least one movable floor structure can move between the storage and
use
position mounted relative to the main frame. The features and configuration of
the
portable building structure of the invention minimises the footprint of the
portable
building structure in the storage condition. The features and configuration of
the
portable building structure provides an internal space in the main frame which
is
unswept by any of the movable components of the portable building structure,
at any
time in the storage, deployment and use of the portable building structure due
to the
mounting of the components relative to the recess.
In the context of the present description and claims, the term 'unswept' means
that the movable components of the portable building structure do not pass
over/through
that portion of the internal space or area in the main frame, during movement.
The
components of the portable building structure are preferably mounted outside
the
unswept area. The components of the portable building structure move outside
the
unswept area at all times.
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The portable building structure of the present invention is typically
transportable. The building structure will typically be transported in a
storage
configuration and once on site, will typically be expanded or deployed into a
use
configuration.
The portable building structure is particularly useful for mobile buildings
used
for 'drop in' operations such as a field hospital for example. One or more
required
pieces of equipment can be installed in the unswept area, fixed in position
and due to
the configuration of the portable building structure, the fixed equipment will
not require
repositioning during deployment once the portable building structure has been
delivered on site.
The unswept area in the main frame of the building structure will preferably
provide an area in which to store items within the structure, but the items
can be stored
in such a way that they do not need to be moved during the deployment of the
building
structure or during use in order to deploy the building structure.
Preferably, all of the walls of the portable building structure are provided
as
frame walls, formed from a number of frame members attached to or relative to
one
another.
In use, the portable building structure will typically be moved into a
deployed
or use configuration, and one or more wall panels will normally be mounted
relative to
the preferred frame walls to enclose the building structure. Components of the
portable
building structure of the present invention, including the main frame, the end
support
and the folding frame walls, will normally be provided as open frame
components
relative to which one or more wall panels can be mounted as necessary. The
appearance
and/or function of the building structure can preferably be changed by
changing the
.. wall panels mounted relative to the frame.
The building structure will preferably be fitted with a number of ISO corner
castings. The number and positioning of the ISO corner castings will
preferably be such
that standard handling equipment can be used to handle the portable building
structure
when in the storage configuration. Preferably, an ISO corner casting is
provided at each
of the upper and lower, outer ends of the main frame.
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The portable building structure preferably includes a main frame with a roof,
a
floor and at least one upright located at each end of the main frame between
the fixed
roof and fixed floor. In use, the main frame will preferably be positioned
centrally
between a pair of deployable, movable wall structures, one on either lateral
side of the
5 main
frame. More than one upright may be provided at each end of the main frame. In
an embodiment, a pair of uprights may be provided at each end of the main
frame.
The main frame is preferably constructed using a number of members attached
together to form the main frame. Typically, the main frame is formed by
provision of a
fixed roof and a fixed floor and then spacing them apart using four uprights,
two at
either end. The sides of the main frame will typically be open, with the top
of the main
frame closed by the fixed roof and the bottom of the main frame closed by the
fixed
floor in the storage condition.
The fixed roof will preferably include one or more roof panels provided
relative
to a surround frame. The surround frame will typically be generally
rectangular. The
surround frame will normally be formed from a pair of spaced apart,
substantially
parallel side members and a pair of spaced apart substantially parallel end
members. A
corner casting is preferably provided at each of the corners of the surround
frame of the
fixed roof The side members of the fixed roof surround frame will preferably
be spaced
inwardly, preferably evenly, from the lateral extremity of the main frame.
A single roof panel will preferably be provided within the surround frame. The
roof panel(s) may be formed of any material, with a metal material being
preferred.
This will preferably increase the robustness of the building structure in both
the use and
storage conditions.
The fixed floor will preferably include one or more floor panels provided
relative to a surround frame. The surround frame will typically be generally
rectangular.
The surround frame will normally be formed from a pair of spaced apart,
substantially
parallel side members and a pair of spaced apart substantially parallel end
members. A
corner casting is preferably provided at each of the corners of the surround
frame of the
fixed floor. The side members of the fixed floor surround frame will typically
be located
such that an outer wall of the side members is positioned adjacent to the
lateral
extremity of the main frame.
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A single floor panel will preferably be provided within the surround frame.
The
floor panel(s) may be formed of any material, with a metal material being
preferred.
This will preferably increase the robustness of the building structure in both
the use and
storage conditions.
Each of the surround frames will typically be formed from a number of frame
members which are attached together. Each of the frame members will typically
be
elongate. Each of the frame members are preferably made of a robust and strong
material and a light metal is preferred. Although each of the frame members
may have
any cross-sectional shape, a rectangular hollow section (RHS) is preferred.
Typically,
the surround frame members are permanently attached to or relative to one
another
using an appropriate attachment method such as welding if the members are
metal.
The fixed roof and the fixed floor are typically separated by a pair of spaced
apart uprights located at each end of the main frame between the fixed floor
and the
fixed roof. Preferably, the pair of spaced apart uprights are located between
the end
members of the surround frames of the fixed floor and fixed roof Preferably,
both of
the pair of spaced apart uprights located at each end of the main frame are
spaced
inwardly from the respective lateral edge of the main frame to create a recess
on each
lateral side of the main frame, at the top and the bottom. Typically, the
recess will
extend over the length of the main frame.
Each of the uprights is preferably elongate. Each of the uprights is
preferably
manufactured from a strong and robust material. A light metal is preferred.
Although
each of the uprights may have any cross-sectional shape, it is preferred that
each of the
uprights is a rectangular hollow section (RHS).
Bracing may be provided between each of the uprights and the respective end
member of the surround frame of the fixed floor and/or fixed roof In a
preferred form,
the bracing is or includes an angled bracket or plate, for example.
The pairs of spaced apart uprights located at each end of the main frame will
preferably define a generally rectangular area between them within the main
frame,
which is the unswept area. The unswept area will typically extend over the
entire height
of the main frame between the fixed floor and the fixed roof, creating in
affect, an
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unswept volume within the main frame. The other components of the portable
building
structure are preferably mounted relative to the main frame outside the
uprights, or at
least no further inwardly than the inner side of the uprights. The recess is
typically
defined between an outer side of the uprights on one lateral side of the main
frame and
the outer end of the end members of the fixed floor and fixed roof.
A runner or guide is preferably provided on an upper side of the or each end
member of the surround frame of the fixed floor, in the recess area. The
runner or guide
provided on the upper side of each end member of the surround frame of the
fixed floor
in the recess area, preferably extends laterally over the length of the recess
and the
corner casting if provided.
A runner or guide is preferably provided on a lower side of the or each end
member of the surround frame of the fixed roof, in the recess area. The runner
or guide
provided on the lower side of each end member of the surround frame of the
fixed roof
in the recess area, preferably extends laterally to the outer side of the side
member of
the surround frame, preferably part way across the corner casting, if
provided.
As will be explained further below, the runner or guide will typically guide
movement of the at least one movable wall structure. Preferably, the runner or
guide is
configured as a channel. The channel will typically be substantially U-shaped,
having
a pair of spaced apart, substantially parallel upstanding walls and a
transverse linking
web therebetween. Preferably, the ends of the substantially parallel
upstanding walls
are shaped in order to assist with clearance, particularly when the at least
one movable
roof structure and/or at least one movable floor structure are moved.
The portable building structure includes at least one movable roof structure
mounted relative to the recess for movement between a raised, use position and
a
storage position in which the at least one movable roof structure at least
partially closes
a lateral side of the main frame. Preferably, the at least one movable roof
structure will
include at least one roof panel. A single roof panel extending over the length
of the
portable building structure and the height of the main frame is preferred.
Providing a
single roof panel of this size allows the height of the main frame to define
the maximum
span of the roof (the span of the roof can be smaller than the height of the
main frame,
but typically not any larger) but also to allow the roof panel to at least
partially close a
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lateral side of the main frame when in the storage position. In an embodiment,
the roof
panel is substantially planar. The roof panel is preferably manufactured of a
strong,
robust material and whilst any material could be used, a light metal is
preferred. This
will preferably increase the robustness of the building structure in both the
use and
storage conditions.
Typically, a movable roof structure is provided on both lateral sides of the
main
frame. In situations where a pair of movable roof structures are provided, one
on either
lateral side of the main frame, this allows the deployed configuration of the
portable
building structure to be up to 3 times the volume of the main frame (of course
depending
upon the dimension of the main frame).
The at least one movable roof structure is preferably substantially planar.
The
at least one movable roof structure is preferably formed of an outer surround
frame
provided about, and surrounding a roof panel. The outer surround frame
preferably
includes a pair of spaced apart, substantially parallel side members and a
pair of
transversely extending, parallel, spaced apart end members. The surround frame
will
preferably be substantially rectangular.
A shaped corner portion is preferably provided at the respective inner corners
of the surround frame. Typically, the corner portion will be substantially L-
shaped. The
corner portion will typically be provided to allow clearance for the movable
roof
structure about the corner casting, if the corner casting is provided. In a
configuration,
the inner side member of the surround frame of the movable roof structure is
typically
not full length, stopping short of the end members. The end members of the
surround
frame of the movable roof structure are typically not full width, stopping
short of the
inner side member. The inner side member and the end members are typically
.. connected using an L-shaped corner structure to provide the clearance for
the corner
casting if provided. If no corner casting is provided, then no shaped corner
portion will
generally be required.
Preferably, the inner side member of the surround frame of the movable roof
structure is mounted to the side member of the surround frame of the fixed
roof of the
main frame. Preferably, the inner side member is hinged to the side member of
the
surround frame of the fixed roof of the main frame. At least one hinge is
provided. In a
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preferred embodiment, an elongate hinge preferably extends over the length of
the inner
side member. The elongate hinge preferably extends over the full length of the
inner
side member between the corner castings if provided. In this embodiment, the
hinge
may be a concealed hinge and/or what is often referred to as a piano hinge.
A runner or guide is preferably provided on an under side (when deployed) or
inner side (when stored) of each end member of the surround frame of the
movable roof
structure. As will be explained further below, the runner or guide will
typically guide
movement of the at least one movable wall structure. Preferably, the runner or
guide is
configured as a channel. The channel will typically be substantially U-shaped,
having
a pair of spaced apart, substantially parallel upstanding walls and a
transverse linking
web therebetween. The runner or guide so provided is preferably aligned with
the
runner or guide provided on the underside of the upper end member of the main
frame
in the recess area. The ends of the substantially parallel walls of the
channel are
typically spaced from the substantially parallel walls of the adjacent channel
located in
the recess area in order to provide clearance for movement of the at least one
movable
roof structure. The ends of the substantially parallel walls of the channel
may be shaped,
preferably arcuate to enhance this clearance.
The runner or guide provided on an under side (when deployed) or inner side
(when stored) of each end member of the surround frame of the movable roof
structure
will preferably extend into or over the open part of the shaped corner portion
provided
at an inner side of the at least one movable roof structure. When the at least
one movable
roof structure is in the deployed condition, the extension portion of the
runner or guide
will typically lie underneath the corner casting if provided.
In the use position, the at least one movable roof structure is preferably
substantially horizontal. The at least one movable roof structure will
preferably be
substantially coplanar with the fixed roof of the main frame.
In the collapsed position, for storage and/or transport, the at least one
movable
roof structure is preferably substantially vertical. In this position, the at
least one
movable roof structure will preferably at least partially close a lateral side
of the main
frame.
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One or more sealing members or arrangements may be provided between the
inner edge of the surround frame of the at least one movable roof structure
and the fixed
roof of the main frame.
One or more assistance mechanisms may be provided in relation to the at least
5 one movable roof structure to provide assistance to a user in moving the
at least one
movable roof structure, particularly into the use position. Typically, the one
or more
assistance mechanisms may be or include one or more lifting springs, pneumatic
springs
or gas struts for example. Normally, the one or more assistance mechanisms may
be
provided between an upright of the main frame and an end frame member of the
10 surround frame of the at least one movable roof structure.
If provided, it is preferred that the one or more assistance mechanisms are
removably attachable. In an embodiment, a stub axle or connector may be
provided on
the frame members at either end of the one or more assistance mechanisms and
the one
or more assistance mechanisms may be provided with a ball socket or similar
.. arrangement at each end, to be removably located relative to the stub axle
or connector.
The one or more assistance mechanisms may be used to assist the movement of
the
movable roof structure and then be removed whilst the building structure is in
use.
One or more rest members or arrangements may be provided on the facing edges
or surfaces of the surround frames of the at least one movable roof structure
and the
fixed roof of the main frame. In one form, a rest member is preferably
provided on each
of the facing edges or surfaces and extending over the length of the members.
The at least one movable roof structure is preferably mounted within the
recess
area of the main frame. The at least one movable roof structure is preferably
received
within the recess area between the fixed roof and fixed floor of the main
frame, when
.. in the storage or collapsed position.
The portable building structure comprises at least one movable floor structure
mounted relative to the recess for movement between a lowered, use position
and a
storage position in which the at least one movable floor structure at least
partially closes
the lateral side of the main frame.
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Preferably, the at least one movable floor structure will include at least one
floor
panel. A single floor panel extending over the length of the portable building
structure
and the height of the main frame is preferred. Providing a single floor panel
of this size
allows the height of the main frame to define the maximum span of the floor
(the span
of the floor may be smaller than the height but not larger) but also to allow
the floor
panel to at least partially close a lateral side of the main frame when in the
storage
position. In an embodiment, the floor panel is substantially planar. The floor
panel is
preferably manufactured of a strong, robust material and whilst any material
could be
used, a light metal is preferred. This will preferably increase the robustness
of the
building structure in both the use and storage conditions, particularly
because the at
least one movable floor structure will generally be the outermost lateral
structure when
in the storage position.
Typically, a single movable floor structure is provided on both lateral sides
of
the main frame. In situations where a pair of movable floor structures are
provided, one
n either lateral side of the main frame, this allows the deployed
configuration of the
portable building structure to be up to 3 times the volume of the main frame
(of course
depending upon the dimension of the main frame).
The at least one movable floor structure is preferably substantially planar.
The
at least one movable floor structure is preferably formed of an outer surround
frame
.. provided about, and surrounding a floor panel. The outer surround frame
preferably
includes a pair of spaced apart, substantially parallel side members and a
pair of
transversely extending, parallel, spaced apart end members. The surround frame
will
preferably be substantially rectangular.
In an embodiment, the inner side member of the surround frame of the movable
floor structure typically extends the full length of the movable floor
structure and/or
main frame.
Preferably, the inner side member of the surround frame of the movable floor
structure is mounted to the side member of the surround frame of the fixed
floor of the
main frame. Preferably, the inner side member is hinged to the side member of
the
surround frame of the fixed floor of the main frame. At least one hinge is
provided. In
a preferred embodiment, an elongate hinge preferably extends over the length
of the
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inner side member. The elongate hinge preferably extends over the full length
of the
inner side member between the corner castings if provided. In this embodiment,
the
hinge may be concealed hinge and/or what is often referred to as a piano
hinge.
A runner or guide is preferably provided on an upper side (when deployed) or
inner side (when stored) of each end member of the surround frame of the
movable
floor structure. As will be explained further below, the runner or guide will
typically
guide movement of the at least one movable wall structure. Preferably, the
runner or
guide is configured as a channel. The channel will typically be substantially
U-shaped,
having a pair of spaced apart, substantially parallel upstanding walls and a
transverse
linking web therebetween. The runner or guide so provided is preferably
aligned with
the runner or guide provided on the upper side of the lower end member of the
main
frame in the recess area. The ends of the substantially parallel walls of the
channel are
typically spaced from the substantially parallel walls of the adjacent channel
located in
the recess area, to provide clearance for movement of the at least one movable
floor
structure. The ends of the substantially parallel walls of the channel may be
shaped,
preferably arcuate to enhance this clearance.
In the use position, the at least one movable floor structure is preferably
substantially horizontal. The at least one movable floor structure will
preferably be
substantially coplanar with the fixed floor of the main frame.
In the collapsed position, for storage and/or transport, the at least one
movable
floor structure is preferably substantially vertical. In this position, the at
least one
movable floor structure will preferably at least partially close a lateral
side of the main
frame.
One or more sealing members or arrangements may be provided between the
inner edge of the surround frame of the at least one movable floor structure
and the
fixed floor of the main frame.
One or more assistance mechanisms may be provided in relation to the at least
one movable floor structure to provide assistance to a user in moving the at
least one
movable floor structure, particularly into the storage position. Typically,
the one or
more assistance mechanisms may be or include one or more lifting springs,
pneumatic
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springs or gas struts for example. Normally, the one or more assistance
mechanisms
may be provided between an upright of the main frame and an end frame member
of
the surround frame of the at least one movable floor structure. If provided,
it is preferred
that the one or more assistance mechanisms are removably attachable. In an
embodiment, a stub axle or connector may be provided on the frame members and
the
one or more assistance mechanisms may be provided with a ball socket or
similar
arrangement at each end in order to be removably located relative to the stub
axle or
connector. The one or more assistance mechanisms may be used to assist the
movement
of the movable floor structure and then be removed whilst the building
structure is in
use.
One or more rest members or arrangements may be provided on the facing edges
or surfaces of the surround frames of the at least one movable floor structure
and the
fixed floor of the main frame. In one form, a rest member is preferably
provided on
each of the facing edges or surfaces and extending over the length of the
members.
In contrast with the at least one movable roof structure, the at least one
movable
floor structure is typically mounted relative to the main frame at an outer
edge of the
recess at a lower side of the main frame. The at least one movable floor
structure will
preferably be located outside the recess when in the folded or storage
position. In
addition, the at least one movable floor structure will typically lack the
corner portions
provided on the at least one movable roof structure in order to provide
clearance for the
corner castings if provided. The at least one movable floor structure will be
located
outside the at least one movable roof structure and will normally be deployed
before
the at least one movable roof structure when deploying the building structure
and will
be moved after the at least one movable roof structure when moving the
building
structure to the storage or transport condition.
The portable building structure comprises a moveable wall structure including
an end support and a pair of folding frame walls, one of each pair of folding
frame walls
at each end of the main frame, one of each pair of frame walls mounted
relative to the
recess, a second of each pair of folding frame walls mounted to the end
support, the
folding frame walls mounting the end wall frame for sliding movement from a
storage
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position within the recess, to a use position between an outer end of the at
least one
movable roof structure and at least one movable floor structure when deployed.
The end support may include an upright member. The end support may include
an upright member at an outer end of each of the pair of folding frame walls.
The end
support may be provided as a part of each of the folding frame walls.
The end support of an embodiment may be or include an end wall frame.
The end wall frame is preferably mounted to an outer end of each of the pair
of
folding frame walls. The end wall frame preferably moves between the at least
one
movable roof structure and at least one movable floor structure, translating
from the
storage position to the use position once the at least one movable roof
structure and at
least one movable floor structure have been deployed. The end wall frame can
be moved
by an operator, which causes movement of the pair of folding frame walls,
and/or one
or both of the pair of folding frame walls can be moved, which causes movement
of the
end wall frame. The end wall frame will remain substantially vertical at all
times during
use, during deployment between the use position and the storage position (and
vice
versa and during storage.
The end wall frame is preferably formed from a pair of substantially vertical
end members, at least one top rail and at least one bottom rail. Preferably,
the bottom
rail is removable from the end wall frame, particularly if the building
structure is located
relative to an adjacent building structure of the same configuration. This
will typically
enable a person within to walk between adjacent building structures without
requiring
them to step over the bottom rail.
One or more intermediate upright members may be provided between the
substantially vertical end members. If the bottom rails is removed, then the
one or more
intermediate upright members will normally be removed as well.
The members of the end wall frame are preferably elongate. The members of
the end wall frame are typically formed from a strong and robust material of
which a
light metal is preferred. Although the members may have any cross-sectional
shape,
preferably, each of the members is a rectangular hollow section.
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The end support is typically mounted on at least one roller or similar device
to
allow ease of movement. A roller is preferred due to the alignment aspect or
rotation in
only two directions. At least one roller may be provided at a lower end of
each of the
end supports.
5
Preferably, at least one roller is provided at a lower end of each of the
substantially vertical end members of the end wall frame. This will typically
support
the end wall frame. At least one roller may be provided at an upper end of
each of the
substantially vertical end members of the end wall frame. The at least one
roller will
typically travel in a respective channel provided on the main frame (at the
start of
10
deployment and the end of the storage) and on the side members of the surround
frame
of the at least one movable roof structure and at least one movable floor
structure.
The end support(s) is preferably load-bearing. When deployed, the end
support(s) will preferably support the at least one movable roof structure
above the at
least one movable floor structure. The end support(s) will preferably support
the at least
15 one movable roof structure by abutment with the at least one movable
floor structure.
Each of the at least one roller provided will preferably be load-bearing.
The end wall frame, where provided, is preferably load-bearing. When
deployed, the end wall frame will preferably support the at least one movable
roof
structure above the at least one movable floor structure. The end wall frame
will
preferably support the at least one movable roof structure by abutment with
the at least
one movable floor structure.
The end wall frame will preferably be received within the recess area when in
the storage position. The end wall frame is typically located inside the at
least one
movable roof structure when the portable building structure is in the storage
condition.
As mentioned previously, once deployed, one or more wall panels can be
mounted relative to the end wall frame in order to partially enclose the
building
structure.
A folding frame wall is preferably provided at each end of the main frame. A
folding frame wall is preferably provided between each end of the main frame
and the
respective end of the end wall frame. Each folding frame wall is connected to
the end
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wall frame such that movement of the end wall frame also moves each folding
frame
wall and vice versa. Each folding frame wall is preferably not supported
directly by the
at least one movable roof structure or the at least one movable floor
structure.
Preferably, each folding frame wall is supported by the end wall frame and the
main
frame. Each folding frame wall is typically supported between the end wall
frame and
an upright of the main frame.
Each of the pair of folding frame walls will preferably include at least two
frame
walls which fold relative to one another. Although more than two frame walls
can be
provided, a bifold configuration is preferred, with each of the pair of
folding frame
walls including two frame walls.
Preferably, a first frame wall of each pair of folding frame walls is mounted
relative to the recess of the main frame. Typically, the first frame wall is
mounted to an
upright of the main frame. The first frame wall is preferably mounted relative
to an
outer side or surface of the upright. The first frame wall is preferably
mounted relative
to the upright using at least one hinge. Preferably two or more hinges are
provided.
In an embodiment, at least one upper hinge and at least one lower hinge is
provided between the first frame wall and the upright. Each of the hinges is
preferably
a concealed hinge but other types of hinge could be used such as a piano hinge
for
example. Each of the hinges preferably has at least an inner leaf attached to
the upright
and at least an outer leaf attached to the first frame wall. At least one of
the inner leaf
and outer leaf is preferably fixed in position relative to the upright. At
least one of the
inner leaf and outer leaf may be provided in a floating configuration in which
the inner
leaf or outer leaf can move vertically, both up and down (within limits),
relative to the
other frame wall. The provision of a floating outer leaf will preferably allow
relative
movement between the main frame and the folding frame wall in order to adjust
for any
height differential in the level of the floor. In the present application, the
term 'floating'
is intended to mean that the leaf will have vertical freedom to move,
typically within
outer limits, but movement of the hinge is preferably constrained in all other
directions.
In an embodiment, the outer leaf may be provided in a slot opening in the
first
frame wall which is longer than the outer leaf, to provide a degree of
movement
vertically but also to confine the movement of the outer leaf.
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A second frame wall is preferably provided. In the preferred bifold
configuration, an inner side of the second frame wall is typically mounted to
an outer
side of the first frame wall. The second frame wall is preferably mounted
relative to the
first frame wall using at least one hinge. Preferably two or more hinges are
provided.
In an embodiment, at least one upper hinge and at least one lower hinge is
provided between the second frame wall and the first frame wall. Each of the
hinges is
preferably a concealed hinge. Each of the hinges preferably has at least an
inner leaf
attached to the first frame wall and at least an outer leaf attached to the
second frame
wall. Each of the hinges preferably has at least an inner leaf attached to the
first frame
wall and at least an outer leaf attached to the second frame wall. At least
one of the
inner leaf and outer leaf is preferably fixed in position relative to the
upright. At least
one of the inner leaf and outer leaf may be provided in a floating
configuration in which
the inner leaf or outer leaf can move vertically, both up and down (within
limits),
relative to the other frame wall to adjust for any height differential in the
level of the
floor.
In an embodiment, the outer leaf may be provided in a slot opening in the
second
frame wall which is longer than the outer leaf in order to provide a degree of
movement
vertically but also to confine the movement of the outer leaf.
An outer end of the second frame wall is preferably mounted to the end wall
frame. Preferably, the outer end of the second wall frame is mounted to the
substantially
vertical end members of the end wall frame. The second frame wall is
preferably
mounted relative to the end wall frame using at least one hinge. Preferably
two or more
hinges are provided.
In an embodiment, at least one upper hinge and at least one lower hinge is
provided between the second frame wall and the end wall frame. Each of the
hinges is
preferably a concealed hinge. Each of the hinges preferably has at least an
inner leaf
attached to the second frame wall and at least an outer leaf attached to the
end wall
frame. Each of the hinges preferably has at least an inner leaf attached to
the second
frame wall and at least an outer leaf attached to the end support or end wall
frame. At
least one of the inner leaf and outer leaf may be provided is preferably fixed
in position.
At least one of the inner leaf and outer leaf may be provided in a floating
configuration
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in which the inner leaf or outer leaf is mounted relative to but can move
vertically, both
up and down (within limits), relative to the second frame wall or the end
support in
order to adjust for any height differential in the level of the floor.
In an embodiment, the outer leaf of a floating configuration hinge may be
provided in a slot opening in the end wall frame which is longer than the
outer leaf, to
provide a degree of movement vertically but also to confine the movement of
the outer
leaf.
Each of the frame walls is preferably configured as an open frame having a
pair
of substantially vertical members connected at the top end by a top rail and
at the bottom
end by a bottom rail (if the bottom rail is present). Each of the frame
members is
preferably elongate. Each of the frame members will preferably be manufactured
from
a light but strong and robust material such as a light metal. Although any
cross-sectional
shape may be used, it is preferred that the frame members are rectangular
hollow
section.
The movable floor structure, the movable roof structure, the roof of the main
frame and/or the floor of the main frame may be formed in any way. One way is
to
provide a surround frame or surround members with a panel located relative to
the
surround frame but there are numerous other configurations that could be used
such as
a panel (without a surround frame) for example.
Corner bracing may be provided between the vertical members, the top rail
and/or the bottom rail.
Preferably, the folding frame walls will unfold as the end wall frame is
translated into the deployed position, and will fold as the end wall frame is
translated
into the storage position.
The pair of folding frame walls are preferably always substantially vertical.
Any one or more of the wall frames of the movable wall structure may be
plumbed and/or wired through the wall frame so that only external connections
are
required once the movable wall structure has been deployed.
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Typically, the pair of folding frame walls will be located within the recess
area
when in the storage position. Preferably, the pair of folding frame walls will
be located
between the unswept area of the main frame on an inner side, and the end wall
frame
on the outside when in the storage condition.
The provision of the movable wall structures within the recess portion of the
main frame will preferably maintain the unswept area in the main frame. In a
preferred
configuration, a substantial portion of the volume of the main frame will be
unswept by
any of the moving components of the portable building structure.
In an embodiment, the portable building structure may be formed within a
shipping container and deployed from within the shipping container, without
removing
the portable building structure from the shipping container. The provision of
the
portable building structure in this configuration may require adjustments to
be made to
a shipping container such as the removal of walls for example.
Detailed Description of the Invention
In order that the invention may be more clearly understood one or more
embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with
reference to
the accompanying drawings, of which:
Figure 1 is an isometric view of a portable building structure
according to an
embodiment in the storage/transport condition.
Figure 2 is an isometric view of the portable building structure
illustrated in
Figure 1 in the expanded condition.
Figure 3 is an end view of the portable building structure illustrated
in Figure 1.
Figure 4 is a schematic flow showing the expansion of the portable
building
structure illustrated in Figure 1 to the configuration illustrated in Figure
2.
Figure 5 is an isometric view of the portable building structure
illustrated in
Figure 1 in a partially expanded condition.
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Figure 6 is an isometric partial view showing the location and detail
of a lower
roller on a movable wall frame according to an embodiment.
Figure 7 is an end view of the lower portion of the portable building
structure
illustrated in Figure 1 and detail of the floor assembly in the storage and
5 deployed positions.
Figure 8 is an end view of the floor assembly of the portable building
structure
illustrated in Figure 1 in the folded and unfolded positions.
Figure 9 is an isometric view showing the location and detail of an
upper roller
on a movable wall frame according to an embodiment.
10 Figure 10 is an end view of the upper portion of the portable
building structure
illustrated in Figure 1 and detail of the roof assembly.
Figure 11 is an end view of the roof assembly of the portable building
structure
illustrated in Figure 1 in the folded and unfolded positions.
Figure 12 is an isometric view showing the location and detail of a
floating hinge
15 arrangement according to an embodiment.
Figure 13 is an isometric view of a mounting hinge between the floor and
the main
body according to an embodiment in the storage position.
Figure 14 is an end view of the configuration illustrated in Figure 13
with the floor
in the storage/transport condition.
20 Figure 15 is an isometric view of the configuration illustrated
in Figure 13 in the
deployed position.
Figure 16 is an end view of the configuration illustrated in Figure 13
with the floor
in the deployed condition.
Figure 17 is an isometric view of a mounting hinge between the roof and
the main
body in the storage/transport condition, according to an embodiment.
Figure 18 is an end view of the configuration illustrated in Figure 17
with the roof
in the storage/transport condition.
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Figure 19 is
an isometric view of the configuration illustrated in Figure 17 with the
roof in the deployed condition.
Figure 20 is
an end view of the configuration illustrated in Figure 17 with the roof
in the deployed condition.
With reference to the accompanying figures, a portable building structure 10
is
shown. The illustrated portable building structure 10 includes a central main
frame 11
with a fixed roof 12, a fixed floor 13, and a pair of spaced apart uprights 14
located at
each end of the main frame 11 between the fixed roof 12 and fixed floor 13.
Each of
the uprights 14 are spaced inwardly from a lateral edge of the fixed roof 12
and the
fixed floor 13 to create a recess 15 at the top and bottom of the main frame
11, on each
lateral side of the main frame 11.
The portable building structure 10 also includes a movable roof structure 16
mounted relative to the recess 15 on each lateral side of the main frame 11
for
movement between a raised, use position illustrated in Figure 2 and a folded,
storage
position in which the movable roof structure 16 at least partially closes a
lateral side of
the main frame 11.
The portable building structure 10 also includes a movable floor structure 17
mounted relative to the recess 15 on each lateral side of the main frame 11
for
movement between a lowered, use position, illustrated in Figure 2 and a
folded, storage
position in which the at least one movable floor structure at least partially
closes the
lateral side of the main frame, illustrated in Figure 1.
A moveable wall structure is provided on either lateral side of the main frame
11. The moveable wall structure includes an end wall frame 18, and a pair of
bifold
frame walls, one at each end of the main frame 11. An inner bifold 19 of each
pair of
frame walls is mounted relative to the recess 15 and an outer bifold 20 of
each pair of
frame walls is mounted to the end wall frame 18.
The pair of bifold frame walls mount the end wall frame 18 for sliding
movement from a storage position within the recess 15, to a use position
between an
outer end of the movable roof structure 16 and movable floor structure 17 when
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deployed. The stages of deployment of the portable building structure 10 are
illustrated
in Figure 4.
The portable building structure of the present invention is typically
transportable. The building structure will typically be transported in the
storage
.. configuration illustrated in Figure 1 and once on site, is expanded or
deployed into the
use configuration illustrated in Figure 2.
The unswept volume 21 in the main frame 11 of the building structure 10
provides a volume in which to store items within the structure 10, but the
items can be
stored in this volume, in such a way that they do not need to be moved during
the
deployment of the building structure 10 or during use in order to deploy the
building
structure 10.
As illustrated, all of the walls of the portable building structure 10 are
provided
as frame walls, formed from a number of frame members attached to or relative
to one
another. This allows a reduction in weight. It also allows the appearance of
the building
structure 10 to be changed by attaching different wall panels relative to the
frame.
The building structure 10 illustrated is fitted with ISO corner castings 22
provided at each of the upper and lower, outer ends of the main frame 11. The
number
and positioning of the ISO corner castings 22 is such that standard handling
equipment
can be used to handle the portable building structure 10 when in the storage
configuration.
As illustrated, the main frame 11 is constructed using a number of frame
members attached together to form the main frame 11. The sides of the main
frame 11
will typically be open, with the top of the main frame 11 closed by the fixed
roof 12
and the bottom of the main frame 11 closed by the fixed floor 13.
The fixed roof 12 includes a single roof panel 22 provided within a surround
frame made up of a number of frame members. The surround frame (and fixed
roof) is
generally rectangular as shown. The surround frame will normally be formed
from a
pair of spaced apart, substantially parallel side members 24 and a pair of
spaced apart
substantially parallel end members 25. A corner casting 22 is provided at each
of the
corners of the surround frame of the fixed roof 12. The side members 24 of the
fixed
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roof surround frame are spaced inwardly, preferably evenly, from the lateral
extremity
of the main frame 11 by a distance of approximately 1/2 of the width of the
corner
castings 22. The roof panel 22 may be formed of any material but a metal is
preferred.
The fixed floor 13 includes a single floor panel 26 provided relative to a
.. surround frame. The surround frame (and fixed floor) is generally
rectangular as shown.
The surround frame will normally be formed from a pair of spaced apart,
substantially
parallel side members 27 and a pair of spaced apart substantially parallel end
members
28. A corner casting 22 is provided at each of the corners of the surround
frame of the
fixed floor 13. The side members 27 of the fixed floor surround frame are
located such
that an outer wall of the side members 27 is positioned adjacent to the
lateral extremity
of the main frame 11 (extending to be approximately coplanar with the outside
surface
of the corner castings 22). The floor panel 26 may be formed of any material
but a metal
is preferred.
Each of the surround frames will typically be formed from a number of frame
members which are attached together. Each of the frame members are elongate.
Each
of the frame members are preferably made of a robust and strong material
usually a
light metal. Although each of the frame members may have any cross-sectional
shape,
a rectangular hollow section (RHS) is preferred. Typically, the surround frame
members are permanently attached to or relative to one another using an
appropriate
attachment method such as welding if the members are metal.
The fixed roof 12 and the fixed floor 13 are separated by a pair of spaced
apart
uprights 14 located at each end of the main frame 11 between the fixed floor
12 and the
fixed roof 13. As shown, the pair of spaced apart uprights 14 are located
between the
end members 25, 28 of the surround frames of the fixed floor 13 and fixed roof
12. In
the illustrated embodiment, both of the pair of spaced apart uprights 14
located at each
end of the main frame 11 are spaced inwardly from the respective lateral edge
of the
main frame 11 to create a recess 15 on each lateral side of the main frame 11.
The recess
15 extends over the length of the main frame 11, at the top and the bottom.
Each of the uprights 14 is preferably elongate. Each of the uprights 14 is
preferably manufactured from a strong and robust material. A light metal is
preferred.
Each of the uprights 14 is a rectangular hollow section (RHS).
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Angled bracing plates 29 are provided between each of the uprights 14 and the
respective end member 25, 28 of the surround frames of the fixed floor 13 and
fixed
roof 12. The angled plates 29 also function as gusset plates used to
strengthen joints,
but also to be used as attachment points for wall panels.
Together, the pairs of spaced apart uprights 14 located at each end of the
main
frame 11 define a generally rectangular area between them within the main
frame 11,
which is the unswept area. The unswept area of the illustrated embodiment
extends over
the height of the main frame 11 between the fixed floor 13 and the fixed roof
12. The
other components of the portable building structure are preferably mounted
relative to
the main frame 11 outside the uprights 14, or at least no further inwardly
than the inner
side of the uprights 14. The recess 15 is defined between an outer side of the
uprights
14 on one lateral side of the main frame 11 and the outer end of the end
members 24,
27 of the fixed floor 13 and fixed roof 12.
As shown best in Figures 6 to 8, a guide channel 30 is provided on an upper
side
of each end member 28 of the surround frame of the fixed floor 13, in the
recess area
15. The guide channel 30 extends laterally over the length of the recess 15
and the
corner casting 22.
As shown best in Figures 6 to 8, a guide channel 31 is provided on a lower
side
of each end member 25 of the surround frame of the fixed roof 12, in the
recess area
15. The guide channel 31 extends laterally to the outer side of the side
member 24 of
the surround frame, part way across the corner casting 22.
As will be explained further below, the guide channels 30, 31 guide movement
of the end wall frame 18 of the movable wall structure.
The guide channels 30, 31 as illustrated are substantially U-shaped, having a
pair of spaced apart, substantially parallel upstanding walls and a transverse
linking
web therebetween. As shown in Figures 7 and 10 in particular, the ends of the
substantially parallel upstanding walls are arcuate in order to assist with
clearance,
when the movable roof structure 16 and movable floor structure 17 are moved.
The movable roof structure 16 of the illustrated embodiment includes a single
roof panel 32 extending over the length of the portable building structure 11
and
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substantially the height of the main frame 11. Providing a single roof panel
32 of this
size allows the height of the main frame 11 to define the maximum span of the
roof (the
span of the roof can be smaller than the height but not larger) but also to
allow the roof
panel 32 to at least partially close a lateral side of the main frame 11 when
in the storage
5 position.
In situations where a pair of movable roof structures 16 are provided, such as
that illustrated, one on either lateral side of the main frame 11, this allows
the deployed
configuration of the portable building structure 10 to be up to 3 times the
volume of the
main frame 11 (of course depending upon the dimension of the main frame).
10 The
movable roof structure 16 of the illustrated embodiment is formed of an
outer surround frame provided about, and surrounding the roof panel 32. The
outer
surround frame illustrated includes a pair of spaced apart, substantially
parallel side
members and a pair of transversely extending, parallel, spaced apart end
members
rendering the surround frame substantially rectangular.
15 As shown
in Figure 17, a shaped corner portion 33 is provided at the respective
inner corners of the surround frame of the movable roof structure 16. The
corner portion
33 shown is substantially L-shaped to allow clearance for the movable roof
structure
16 about the corner casting 22. In the illustrated configuration, the inner
side member
of the surround frame of the movable roof structure is not full length,
stopping short of
20 the end
members and the end members of the surround frame of the movable roof
structure 16 are not full width, stopping short of the inner side member. The
inner side
member and the end members are typically connected using an L-shaped corner
structure to provide the clearance for the corner casting 22.
The inner side member of the surround frame of the movable roof structure 16
25 is
mounted to the side member 24 of the surround frame of the fixed roof 12 of
the main
frame 11 using an elongate hinge 34 extending over the length of the inner
side member
of the movable roof structure 16. The elongate hinge 34 preferably extends
over the full
length of the inner side member between the corner castings 22. In this
embodiment,
the hinge 34 is a piano hinge.
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As best illustrated in Figures 9 to 11, a guide channel 35 is provided on an
under
side (when deployed) or inner side (when stored) of each end member of the
surround
frame of the movable roof structure 16. The guide channel aligns with guide
channel
31 to guide movement of the end wall frame 18 of the movable wall structure
during
deployment and storage. The channel 35 is substantially U-shaped, having a
pair of
spaced apart, substantially parallel upstanding walls and a transverse linking
web
therebetween. As shown in Figure 10 in particular, the ends of the
substantially parallel
walls of the channel 35 are spaced from the substantially parallel walls of
the adjacent
channel 31 located in the recess area 15 in order to provide clearance for
movement of
.. the movable roof structure 16. The ends of the substantially parallel walls
of the
channels 31, 35 are arcuate to enhance this clearance.
As best shown in Figures 17 to 20, the channel 35 extends across the open part
of the shaped corner portion 33 provided at an inner side of the movable roof
structure
16. When the movable roof structure 16 is in the deployed condition, the end
portion of
the channel 35 lies underneath the corner casting 22 as shown in Figures 19
and 20.
In the use position illustrated in Figure 2 at least, the movable roof
structure 16
is substantially horizontal and preferably substantially coplanar with the
fixed roof 12
of the main frame 11.
In the collapsed position, for storage and/or transport, as shown in Figure 1
at
.. least, the movable roof structure 16 is preferably substantially vertical.
In this position,
the movable roof structure 16 will preferably at least partially close a
lateral side of the
main frame 11.
In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of lifting springs, pneumatic springs or
gas
struts 36 is provided, one at either end of the movable roof structure 16 to
provide
assistance to a user in moving the movable roof structure, 16 particularly
into the use
position. Normally, the lifting springs, pneumatic springs or gas struts 36
are provided
between an upright 14 of the main frame 11 and an end frame member of the
surround
frame of the movable roof structure 16.
The lifting springs, pneumatic springs or gas struts 36 are removably
attachable.
In the illustrated embodiment, a stub axle or connector is provided on the
frame
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members at either end of the lifting springs, pneumatic springs or gas struts
36 and the
lifting springs, pneumatic springs or gas struts 36 are provided with a ball
socket or
similar arrangement at each end in order to be removably located relative to
the stub
axle or connector. The lifting springs, pneumatic springs or gas struts 36 are
normally
.. used to assist the movement of the movable roof structure 16 and then be
removed
whilst the building structure 11 is in use.
As shown in Figure 10 and 11, the movable roof structure 16 is mounted within
the recess area 15 of the main frame 11. The movable roof structure 16 is
preferably
received within the recess area 15 between the fixed roof 12 and fixed floor
13 of the
main frame 11, when in the storage or collapsed position.
As illustrated, the movable floor structure 17 include a single floor panel 38
extending over the length of the portable building structure 11 and the height
of the
main frame 11. Providing a single floor panel 38 of this size allows the
height of the
main frame 11 to define the maximum span of the floor (the span of the floor
may be
smaller than the height but not larger) but also to allow the floor panel 38
to at least
partially close a lateral side of the main frame 11 when in the storage
position. In an
embodiment, the floor panel is substantially planar and manufactured of a
light metal.
Typically, a movable floor structure 17 is provided on both lateral sides of
the
main frame 11, which allows the deployed configuration of the portable
building
structure 10 to be up to 3 times the volume of the main frame 11 (of course
depending
upon the dimension of the main frame).
As illustrated, the movable floor structure 17 is preferably substantially
planar,
formed of an outer surround frame provided about, and surrounding a floor
panel 38.
The outer surround frame preferably includes a pair of spaced apart,
substantially
parallel side members and a pair of transversely extending, parallel, spaced
apart end
members.
In the illustrated embodiment and in contrast to the inner side member of the
surround frame of the movable roof 16, the inner side member of the surround
frame of
the movable floor structure 17 extends the full length of the movable floor
structure 17
and main frame 11.
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As shown in Figures 6 to 8, the inner side member of the surround frame of the
movable floor structure 17 is mounted to the side member 27 of the surround
frame of
the fixed floor 13 of the main frame 11 using an elongate hinge 39 extending
over the
length of the inner side member between the corner castings 22. In this
embodiment,
the hinge 39 is a piano hinge.
As shown in Figures 5 to 8, a guide channel 40 is preferably provided on an
upper side (when deployed) or inner side (when stored) of each end member of
the
surround frame of the movable floor structure 17. As will be explained further
below,
the guide channel 40 will typically guide movement of the movable wall
structure. The
guide channel 40 will typically be substantially U-shaped, having a pair of
spaced apart,
substantially parallel upstanding walls and a transverse linking web
therebetween. As
shown in Figure 6 and 7, the guide channel 40 is preferably aligned with the
guide
channel 30 provided on the upper side of the lower end member 28 of the main
frame
11 in the recess area 15. As seen best in Figure 7, the ends of the
substantially parallel
walls of the channel 40 are spaced from the substantially parallel walls of
the adjacent
channel 30 located in the recess area 15 in order to provide clearance for
movement of
the movable floor structure 17. The ends of the substantially parallel walls
of the
channel 30, 40 are preferably arcuate to enhance this clearance.
In the use position shown in Figure 2 at least, the movable floor structure 17
is
preferably substantially horizontal and substantially coplanar with the fixed
floor 13 of
the main frame 11.
In the collapsed position shown in Figure 1 at least, for storage and/or
transport,
the movable floor structure 17 is preferably substantially vertical. In this
position, the
movable floor structure 17 will preferably at least partially close a lateral
side of the
main frame 11.
One or more lifting springs, pneumatic springs or gas strut assistance
mechanisms are provided in the illustrated embodiment, provided in relation to
the
movable floor structure 17 to provide assistance to a user in moving the
movable floor
structure 17. As shown in Figure 5 at least, a pair of assistance mechanisms
are provided
between an upright 14 of the main frame 11 and an end frame member of the
surround
frame of the movable floor structure 17. The assistance mechanisms 41 are
typically
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removably attachable. In an embodiment, a stub axle or connector may be
provided on
the frame members and the assistance mechanisms 41 are provided with a ball
socket
(or similar arrangement) at each end in order to be removably located relative
to the
stub axle or connector. The assistance mechanisms 41 may be used to assist the
movement of the movable floor structure 17 and then be removed whilst the
building
structure 10 is in use.
In contrast with the movable roof structure 16, the movable floor structure 17
is
typically mounted relative to the main frame 11 at an outer edge of the recess
15 at a
lower side of the main frame 11 as shown in Figure 7 in particular. The
movable floor
structure 17 will preferably be located outside the recess 15 when in the
folded or
storage position. In addition, the movable floor structure 17 will typically
lack the
corner portions provided on the movable roof structure 33 shown in Figure 17,
in order
to provide clearance for the corner castings 22 if provided. The movable floor
structure
17 will be located outside the movable roof structure 16 in the storage
position and is
normally deployed before the movable roof structure 16 when deploying the
building
structure 10 and will be moved after the movable roof structure 16 when moving
the
building structure 10 to the storage or transport condition.
As shown in Figure 5 in particular, the end wall frame 18 is mounted to an
outer
bifold 20 of each of the pair of folding frame walls. The end wall frame 18
moves
between the movable roof structure 16 and movable floor structure 17,
translating from
the storage position to the use position once the movable roof structure 16
and movable
floor structure 17 have been deployed. The end wall frame 18 can be moved by
an
operator, which causes movement of the pair of folding frame walls and/or the
pair of
folding frame walls can be moved, which causes movement of the end wall frame
18.
The end wall frame 18 will remain substantially vertical at all times during
use, during
deployment between the use position and the storage position and back, and
during
storage.
As illustrated, the end wall frame 18 is formed from a pair of substantially
vertical end members 44, a top rail 43 and an optional bottom rail 45. A pair
of
intermediate upright members 46 are provided between the substantially
vertical end
members 43. The members of the end wall frame 18 are preferably elongate. The
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members of the end wall frame are typically formed from a strong and robust
material
of which a light metal is preferred. Although the members may have any cross-
sectional
shape, preferably, each of the members is a rectangular hollow section.
The end wall frame 18 is typically relative to the movable roof structure 16
and
5 the movable floor structure 17 using a roller 47 at a lower end of each
of the
substantially vertical end members 44 of the end wall frame 18 (as illustrated
in Figure
6) and a roller 47 provided at an upper end of each of the substantially
vertical end
members 44 of the end wall frame 18 (as illustrated in Figure 9). Each roller
47 will
typically travel in a respective guide channel 30, 31 provided on the main
frame 11 (at
10 the start of deployment and the end of the storage) and a guide channel
35, 40 on the
side members of the surround frame of the movable roof structure 16 and
movable floor
structure 17.
In the illustrated embodiment, the end wall frame 18 is preferably load-
bearing.
When deployed, the end wall frame 18 will usually support the movable roof
structure
15 16 above the movable floor structure 17 by abutment of the rollers in
the guide channels
35, 40. Each of the rollers 47 (at least at the lower side) provided is also
normally load-
bearing.
As shown in Figure 3, the end wall frame 18 will normally be received within
the recess area 15 when in the storage position. The end wall frame 18 is
typically
20 located inside the movable roof structure 16 when the portable building
structure 10 is
in the storage condition.
As mentioned previously, one or more wall panels can be mounted relative to
the end wall frame 18 in order to partially enclose the building structure.
A folding frame wall is preferably provided at each end of the main frame 11.
25 A folding frame wall is preferably provided between each end of the main
frame 11 and
the respective end of the end wall frame 18. Each folding frame wall is
connected to
the end wall frame 18 such that movement of the end wall frame 18 also moves
each
folding frame wall and vice versa. Each folding frame wall is preferably not
supported
directly by the movable roof structure 16 or the movable floor structure 17
but is
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31
supported relative to rollers 47 to allow movement. Each folding frame wall is
typically
supported between the end wall frame 18 and the upright 14 of the main frame
11.
As illustrated, each of the pair of folding frame walls includes two bifold
frame
walls which fold relative to one another, an inner bifold 19 mounted relative
to the
upright 14 and an outer bifold 20 mounted outside the inner bifold 19 and to
the end
wall frame 18.
The inner bifold 19 is preferably mounted relative to an outer side or surface
of
the upright 14. The inner bifold 19 is preferably mounted relative to the
upright 14 using
a number of hinges 48. Three hinges 48 are used in the illustrated embodiment.
The hinges 48 are provided between the inner bifold 19 and the upright 14.
Each
of the hinges 48 is preferably a concealed hinge. Each of the hinges
preferably has an
inner leaf attached to the upright 14 and an outer leaf attached to the inner
bifold 19.
Both leaves are preferably fixed in position relative to the upright 14.
An outer bifold 20 is preferably provided with an inner side of the outer
bifold
20 typically mounted to an outer side of the inner bifold 19. The outer bifold
20 is
preferably mounted relative to the inner bifold 19 using a number of hinges
49. Three
hinges 49 are used in the illustrated embodiment.
Each of the hinges 49 is preferably a concealed hinge. Each of the hinges 49
preferably has an inner leaf attached to the inner bifold 19 and an outer leaf
attached to
the outer bifold 20. As shown in Figure 12, the inner leaf is preferably fixed
in position
relative to the inner bifold 19. The outer leaf is preferably provided in a
floating
configuration in which the outer leaf of hinge 49 between the inner bifold 19
and the
outer bifold 20 so that the bifolds 19, 20 can move vertically, both up and
down relative
to one another. The provision of a floating outer leaf will allow relative
movement
(within limits) between the inner bifold 19 and the outer bifold 20 in order
to adjust for
any height differential in the level of the floor or ground upon which the
building
structure 10 is located.
In the embodiment shown in Figure 12, the outer leaf is provided in a slot
opening 50 in the outer bifold 20 which is longer than the outer leaf of the
hinge in
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order to provide a degree of movement vertically between the inner bifold 19
and the
outer bifold 20 but also to confine the movement of the outer leaf
As shown in numerous Figures, an outer end of the outer bifold 20 is mounted
to the end wall frame 18. Preferably, the outer end of the outer bifold 20 is
mounted to
the substantially vertical end members 44 of the end wall frame 18. The outer
bifold 20
is preferably mounted relative to the end wall frame 18 using a number of
hinges 48.
Three hinges 48 are used in the illustrated embodiment.
Each of the hinges 48 is preferably a concealed hinge. Each of the hinges
preferably has an inner leaf attached to the outer bifold 20 and an outer leaf
attached to
the end wall frame 18. Both leaves are preferably fixed in position relative
to the outer
bifold 20 and the end wall frame 18.
As shown, each of the frame walls of the portable building structure 10 is
preferably configured as an open frame having a pair of substantially vertical
members
connected at the top end by a top rail and at the bottom end by a bottom rail.
Each of
the frame members is preferably elongate. Each of the frame members will
preferably
be manufactured from a light but strong and robust material such as a light
metal.
Although any cross-sectional shape may be used, it is preferred that the frame
members
are rectangular hollow section.
Corner bracing may be provided between the vertical members, the top rail
and/or the bottom rail and in the illustrated form, the corner bracing is an
angled plate.
The inner bifold 19 and outer bifold 20 unfold as the end wall frame 18 is
translated into the deployed position and fold as the end wall frame 18 is
translated into
the storage position. The folding frame walls are preferably always
substantially
vertical.
Any one or more of the wall frames of the movable wall structure may be
plumbed and/or wired.
As shown in Figure 3 in particular, the inner bifold 19 and outer bifold 20
are
located within the recess area 15 of the main frame 11 when in the storage
position,
located between the unswept area 21 of the main frame 11 on an inner side, and
the end
wall frame 18 on the outside.
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The one or more embodiments are described above by way of example only.
Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of protection
afforded
by the appended claims.
