Frameless space structure

Abstract

A construction module comprises a plurality of shaped plates connected to each other at selected angles and orientations to form the constructions module. The plates have two or more different shapes, and may be arranged with respect to each other so as form a three dimensional construction module whereby external forces acting on the module are balanced by internal tensile and compressive stresses in symmetrical plates acting in opposite directions. Also provided is a frameless structural system comprising a plurality of such construction modules, the plurality of construction modules being fastened to each other to form the structural system.

1 . A construction module comprising a plurality of shaped plates connected to each other at selected angles and orientations to form the constructions module. 
   
   
       2 . A construction module as claimed in  claim 1  wherein the plates have two or more different shapes. 
   
   
       3 . A construction module as claimed in  claim 1  wherein the plates are arranged with respect to each other so as form a three dimensional construction module whereby external forces acting on the module are balanced by internal tensile and compressive stresses in symmetrical plates acting in opposite directions. 
   
   
       4 . A construction module as claimed in  claim 1  comprising a plurality of elongate plates having long edges and end edges, the plates being joined to each other along their common long edges. 
   
   
       5 . A construction module as claimed in  claim 4  further comprising end plates joined to the elongate plates along the end edges. 
   
   
       6 . A construction module as claimed in  claim 1  wherein the plate shape and angle connection thereof is based on one or more of the following parameters: module rotation angle, module end connection angles, module rotation arm, module width, load bearing plates projected end widths dimensions, main load bearing plates projected mid width dimension, and main loading bearing plates intersection angle. 
   
   
       7 . A construction module as claimed in  claim 1  further comprising at least one connection means for connecting a construction module to an adjacent construction module. 
   
   
       8 . A construction module as claimed in  claim 1  wherein the module is a three dimensional structural unit which carry and transfer loads in three dimensions using the plates as load bearing structures. 
   
   
       9 . A frameless structural system comprising a plurality of construction modules, each construction module comprising a plurality of shaped plates connected to each other at selected angles and orientations to form the constructions module, the plurality of construction modules being fastened to each other to form the structural system. 
   
   
       10 . A frameless structural system as claimed in  claim 9  wherein the construction modules are bolted to each other, lower nodules being bolted to a foundation. 
   
   
       11 . A frameless structural system as claimed in  claim 9  comprising a chain of construction modules bolted to each other. 
   
   
       12 . A frameless structural system as claimed in  claim 9  wherein construction modules are bolted to each other to form a structure comprising an arch; a shell; and a sectionalized system. 
   
   
       13 . A frameless structural system as claimed in  claim 9  wherein lateral support is provided by adjacent construction modules. 
   
   
       14 . A frameless structural system as claimed in  claim 9  wherein lateral support is provided using braces for bracing outer plates of a module so as to act in opposite directions. 
   
   
       15 . A frameless structural system as claimed in  claim 9  constructed based in calculations in accordance with one or more of the following variables: Modular width; Main Load Bearing Plates Intersection Angle; Modular Thickness; Maximum Allowable Compressive Stress; Maximum allowable Tensile Stress; and Maximum Allowable Shear Stress. 
   
   
       16 . A frameless structural system as claimed in  claim 9  wherein the system is one of the following: a completed structure; roof structure; dome; high rise; bridge; dam system; and tunnel system.