Collapsible construction module

Abstract

Systems and methods of using a collapsible construction module are described. The module may include an internal framework having horizontal support bars and masts pivotably attached to the horizontal support bars. The module may further include vertical support bars fixed to the horizontal support bars. Beams may be connected to ends of the support bars. The module may orient between open and closed positions by pivotably rotating the masts independent of the beams.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A construction module that can be folded and unfolded, comprising:
 an internal framework having at least four horizontal support bars; at least four masts each pivotally attached to one of the horizontal support bars on each end; wherein each mast pivots in the horizontal plane;   at least four vertical support bars fixed to the horizontal supports;   a number of beams connected to the ends of the support bars, wherein a first beam end is contactable to the support bars and can pivot independent of the masts;   wherein the masts are substantially parallel to each other and perpendicular to the support bars when the module is unfolded; and the masts the substantially parallel when the module is folded.   
     
     
         2 . The module as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the module is about 15 feet. 
     
     
         3 . The module as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the modules allow pipes and wiring threaded or fed therethrough in the longitudinal direction. 
     
     
         4 . The module as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the beams stop the pivoting of the masts about the horizontal support bars. 
     
     
         5 . The module as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein construction module is relatively flat when folded. 
     
     
         6 . The module as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the construction module is box-shaped when unfolded. 
     
     
         7 . A stackable system of construction modules wherein each of the construction module can be folded and unfolded, comprising:
 an internal framework having at least four horizontal support bars; at least four masts each pivotally attached to one of the horizontal support bars on each end; wherein each mast pivots in the horizontal plane;   at least four vertical support bars fixed to the horizontal supports;   a number of beams connected to the ends of the support bars, wherein a first beam end is contactable to the support bars and can pivot independent of the masts;   wherein the masts are substantially parallel to each other and perpendicular to the support bars when the module is unfolded; and the masts the substantially parallel when the module is folded.   
     
     
         8 . The system as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the construction modules can be stacked.