Three dimensional structural frames and enclosures

Three dimensional structural frames and enclosures and related methods are disclosed herein. In an example embodiment, an enclosure includes a plurality of three dimensional structural frames and opposing wall portions interconnected by the plurality of three dimensional structural frames, where the wall portions include a plurality of uniform wall sections, where the wall sections include a wall panel portion, a top wall portion, and sidewall portions, where the sidewall portions of the plurality of wall sections are joined to form the wall portions, and where the plurality of three dimensional structural frames are attached to the top wall portions of the wall sections.

BACKGROUND

Enclosures may be used to surround equipment located outside of a building in an industrial facility or equipment located inside of a building. Such enclosures may protect the equipment from a variety of environmental conditions, such as extreme temperatures, humidity, and moisture.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, a three dimensional structural member is disclosed. The three dimensional structural member includes a frame member that includes a variable cross section three dimensional structure that includes a first end and a second end; a mounting flange at the second end of the variable cross section three dimensional structure that at least partially encloses the second end, where the mounting flange includes through holes for mounting the frame member; and a transverse stiffener positioned within the variable cross section three dimensional structure that includes a rigid support structure rigidly fixed to a first flange, a web, and a second flange of the variable cross section three dimensional structure.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame member is disclosed, where the variable cross section three dimensional structure is a single piece of sheet metal.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame member is disclosed, where the variable cross section three dimensional structure and the mounting flange include a single piece of sheet metal.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame member is disclosed, where the variable cross section three dimensional structure is an open three dimensional structure.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame member is disclose, where the transverse stiffener is welded to the first flange, the web, and the second flange of the variable cross section three dimensional structure.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame is disclosed. The three dimensional structural frame includes two three dimensional structural frame members connected at their first ends.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame is disclosed, further including a connector for a fall protection harness between the firsts ends of the two three dimensional structural frame members.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame member is disclosed. The three dimensional structural frame member includes a frame member that includes a three dimensional structure that includes a first end and a second end, where the first end has a first width, the second end has a second width, and the first and second widths are substantially equal; a mounting flange at the second end of the three dimensional structure that at least partially encloses the second end, where the mounting flange includes through holes for mounting the frame member; and a transverse stiffener positioned within the three dimensional structure that includes a rigid support structure rigidly fixed to a first flange, a web, and a second flange of the three dimensional structure.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame is disclosed, where the three dimensional structure is a single piece of sheet metal.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame is disclosed, where the three dimensional structure and the mounting flange include a single piece of sheet metal.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame is disclosed, where the three dimensional structure is an open three dimensional structure.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame is disclosed, where the transverse stiffener is welded to the first flange, the web, and the second flange of the three dimensional structure.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame is disclosed. The three dimensional structural frame includes two three dimensional structural frames connected at their first ends.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame is disclosed, further including a connector for a fall protection harness between the firsts ends of the two three dimensional structural frame members.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame is disclosed. The three dimensional structural frame includes a frame member that includes an elongated three dimensional structure having a first side, a second side, and a center support portion, where the first side has a variable cross section from a first end to the center support portion, and where the second side has a variable cross section from a second end to the center support portion, the frame member further includes mounting flanges at the first end and the second end that at least partially enclose the first end and the second end, where the mounting flanges include through holes for mounting the frame member; a center support mounted at the center support portion; and transverse stiffeners positioned within the three dimensional structure on the first side and the second side that includes a rigid support structure rigidly fixed to a first flange, a web, and a second flange of the three dimensional structure.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame is disclosed, where the frame member is a single piece of sheet metal.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame is disclosed, where the center support includes a connector for a fall protection harness.

In another aspect, a three dimensional structural frame is disclosed, where the transverse stiffeners are welded to the first flange, the web, and the second flange of the three dimensional structure.

In another aspect, an enclosure is disclosed. The enclosure includes a plurality of three dimensional structural frames; and opposing wall portions interconnected by the plurality of three dimensional structural frames, where the wall portions include a plurality of uniform wall sections, where the wall sections include a wall panel portion, a top wall portion, and sidewall portions, where the sidewall portions of the plurality of wall sections are joined to form the wall portions, where the plurality of three dimensional structural frames are attached to the top wall portions of the wall sections.

In another aspect, an enclosure is disclosed, where the ends of the three dimensional structural frames overlap and are simultaneously attached to two wall sections.

In another aspect, an enclosure is disclosed, where the wall sections include a single piece of formed sheet metal.

In another aspect, an enclosure is disclosed, further including a plurality of support members, where the support members extend between the opposing wall portions.

In another aspect, an enclosure is disclosed, where the wall sections include a bottom wall portion.

In another aspect, an enclosure is disclosed, where the sidewalls of the plurality of wall sections are connected by a plurality of rivets.

In another aspect, an enclosure is disclosed, further including a gasket between the sidewall portions.

In another aspect, an enclosure is disclosed, where the gasket includes a silicone bead, polyurethane, or structural adhesive.

In another aspect, an enclosure is disclosed, further including a roof that includes a plate secured to the three dimensional structural frames.

In another aspect, an enclosure is disclosed, where the plate includes sheet metal.

In another aspect, an enclosure is disclosed, where the plate includes perforated sheet metal.

In another aspect, an enclosure is disclosed, where the roof further includes a weatherproof membrane overlaying the plate and attached to the wall panel portions of the wall sections.

In another aspect, an enclosure is disclosed, further including a first support member connected to a first group of wall sections, and a second support member connected to a second group of wall sections.

In another aspect, an enclosure disclosed, further including a strengthening member connected to the plurality of three dimensional structural frames.

In another aspect, a lift plate for engaging the ends of a plurality of three dimensional structural frames is disclosed. The lift plate includes a planar portion that includes a series of a pattern of mounting holes for receiving hardware for securing the plate to the ends of the plurality of frames; and a connecting portion for engaging a harness that provides upward force to lift the plate and the frames.

In another aspect, a lift plate is disclosed, where the connecting portion includes a reinforcement plate.

In another aspect, a lift plate is disclosed, where the connecting portion includes two reinforcement plates.

In another aspect, a liftable enclosure is disclosed. The liftable enclosure includes a plurality of the three dimensional structural frames; and at least two lift plates that include a planar portion that includes a series of a pattern of mounting holes for receiving hardware for securing the plate to the ends of the plurality of frames and a connecting portion for engaging a harness that provides an upward force to lift the plate and the frames.

In another aspect, a liftable enclosure is disclosed, further including opposing walls interconnected by the plurality of three dimensional structural frames, where the walls include a plurality of uniform wall sections, where the wall sections include a wall panel portion, a top wall portion, and sidewall portions, where the sidewall portions of the plurality of wall sections are connected to form at least a portion of a wall of the enclosure, where the plurality of three dimensional structural frames are attached to the top wall portions of the wall sections.

In another aspect, a liftable enclosure is disclosed, where the lift plates are further connected to the wall panel portions of the wall sections.

In another aspect, a method for building a structure is disclosed. The method includes fabricating opposing walls of the structure by attaching sidewall portions of a plurality of wall sections comprising a wall panel portion, a top wall portion, and sidewall portions, where the sidewall portions of the plurality of wall sections; and attaching a plurality of three dimensional structural frames to the top walls portions of the wall sections of the opposing walls.

In another aspect, a method is disclosed, where the opposing walls are fabricated while the sidewall portions are substantially horizontal.

In another aspect, a method is disclosed, where the opposing walls are uprighted by attaching a lift plate to a top end of a plurality of wall sections and lifting the top end.

In another aspect, a method for lifting an enclosure is disclosed. The method includes attaching a plurality of lift plates to the a plurality of the ends of the three dimensional structural frames and the wall panel sections of the opposing walls; attaching a harness to the plurality of lift plates; and lifting the structure with an upward force to the harness, where the lift plates include a planar portion that includes a series of a pattern of mounting holes for receiving hardware for securing the plate to the ends of the plurality of frames and the wall panel sections, and a connecting portion for attaching the harness.

DESCRIPTION

It may be desirable to lift enclosures in a variety of situations. As one example, when an enclosure surrounds equipment (e.g., a generator, related electrical, electronic, and mechanical components, and a fuel tank) it may be desirable to lift the enclosure to access the equipment for repair or replacement. As another example, it may be desirable to lift an enclosure during installation or fabrication of the enclosure.

In its various aspects, the disclosure is directed to three dimensional structural frames and enclosures and related methods. In an example embodiment, an enclosure may include three dimensional structural frames and opposing walls interconnected by the three dimensional structural frames, and lift plates may be connected to the three dimensional structural frames. The lift plates may be used to lift the enclosure upward. With this arrangement, the enclosure may be lifted without partially disassembling the enclosure.

Beneficially, embodiments described herein may reduce labor, equipment, and/or time needed to lift enclosures. In addition, embodiments described herein may reduce damage to the enclosure after or while the enclosure is lifted, such as excessive deformation of portions of the enclosure, plastic deformation of portions of the enclosure, and/or buckling of portions of the enclosure. Accordingly, embodiments described herein may help to reduce costs of lifting enclosures.

II. Example Apparatus

A. Three Dimensional Structural Frame Members

FIG. 1shows a three dimensional structural frame member100, according to an example embodiment. The three dimensional structural frame member100includes a frame member110, a mounting flange120, and a transverse stiffener130. Moreover, the frame member110includes a variable cross section three dimensional structure112that includes a first end114, a second end116, a first (bottom) flange140that may define a first interior wall, a web142that may define a second interior wall, and a second (top) flange144that may define a third interior wall. The first end114is wider than the second end116. With this arrangement, the variable cross section three dimensional structure112may comprise an open three dimensional structure comprising the first flange140, the web142, and the second flange144.

The frame member110may comprise a variety of materials. For instance, in some embodiments, the frame member110may comprise steel. And in some such embodiments, the frame member110may comprise sheet metal of variable thickness and post processing treatments. Moreover, in some embodiments, the variable cross section three dimensional structure112may comprise a single piece of sheet metal. Further, in some embodiments, the variable cross section three dimensional structure112and mounting flange120may comprise a single piece of sheet metal. The variable cross section three dimensional structure112and mounting flange120may comprise the same or similar material as the frame member110.

As shown inFIG. 1, the mounting flange120may be located at the second end116of the variable cross section three dimensional structure120and at least partially enclose the second end116. The mounting flange120may include through holes122for mounting the frame member110. In the illustrated example, the mounting flange120may further include second through holes124, and the first end114may further include third through holes118.

Further, as shown inFIG. 1, the transverse stiffener130may be positioned within the variable cross section three dimensional structure112and comprises a rigid support structure rigidly fixed to the first flange140, the web142, and the second flange144of the variable cross section three dimensional structure112. In some embodiments, the transverse stiffener130may be welded to the first flange140, the web142, and the second flange144of the variable cross section three dimensional structure112as shown inFIG. 1-1. And in some such embodiments, the transverse stiffener130may be fillet welded to each of the first flange140, the web142, and the second flange144.

The first flange140, the web142, and the second flange144may take various different forms in various different embodiments. For instance, in some embodiments, the first flange140, the web142, and the second flange144may have the same thickness. However, in other embodiments, at least two of the first flange140, the web142, and the second flange144may have different thicknesses. Moreover, in some embodiments, each of the first flange140, the web142, and the second flange144may have different thicknesses.

The first flange140, the web142, and the second flange144may have other parameters that are the same or different as well. For instance, any XYZ dimension of the first flange140may be the same as or different than the corresponding XYZ dimension of the web142and/or the second flange144, such as width, depth, and height. Further, the moment of inertia of the first flange140may be the same as or different than the moment of inertia of the web142and/or the second flange144.

Moreover, in some embodiments, the first flange140, the web142, and/or the second flange144may have varying thicknesses, varying XYZ dimensions, and/or varying moments of inertia.

The transverse stiffener130may comprise a variety of materials in variable thicknesses. For instance, in some embodiments, the transverse stiffener130may comprise the same or similar material as the frame member110. However, in other embodiments, the transverse stiffener130may comprise a different material than the frame member110.

Further still, as shown inFIG. 1, the three dimensional structural frame member100may further include a second transverse stiffener132positioned within the variable cross section three dimensional structure112and comprise a rigid support structure rigidly fixed to the first flange140, the web142, and the second flange144of the variable cross section three dimensional structure112.

The second transverse stiffener132may comprise any of the materials that the transverse stiffener130comprises. In some embodiments, the second transverse stiffener132may comprise the same or similar material as the first transverse stiffener130and/or the frame member110. However, in other embodiments, the second transverse stiffener132may comprise a different material than the transverse stiffener130and/or the frame member110. The second transverse stiffener132may be welded to the first flange140, the web142, and the second flange144in the same or similar way as the transverse stiffener130is welded to the first flange140, the web142, and the second flange144. The transverse stiffener130and/or the second transverse stiffener132may strengthen the three dimensional structural frame member100, for example, by improving resistance of the three dimensional structural frame member100to deformation, bending, rupturing, breaking, and other modes of failure.

The location of the transverse stiffener130in the variable cross section three dimensional structure112with respect to the first end114and the second end116may be selected based on predetermined loading of the three dimensional structural frame member100(e.g., bending moments and/or torsional loading). Similarly, the location of the second transverse stiffener132in the variable cross section three dimensional structure112with respect to the first end114and second end116and/or the transverse stiffener130may be selected based on predetermined loading of the three dimensional structural frame member100. Other parameters of the three dimensional structural frame member100may be selected based on predetermined loading of the three dimensional structural frame member100as well, such as the material or thickness of the frame member110, width of the first end116, and width of the second end118.

FIG. 2shows aspects of a three dimensional structural frame member200, according to an example embodiment. The three dimensional structural frame member200is similar to three dimensional structural frame member100, except that the three dimensional structural frame member200includes a three dimensional structure212that does not have a variable cross section. Instead, the three dimensional structure212includes two ends that have substantially equal widths. For instance, a first end (not shown inFIG. 2) has a first width, a second end216has a second width, and the first width and the second width are substantially equal. With this arrangement, the three dimensional structure212may have a constant cross section. The term “substantially equal,” as used in this disclosure, means exactly equal or one or more deviations from exactly equal that do not significantly impact lifting enclosures as described herein.

As shown inFIG. 2, the three dimensional structural frame member200includes a frame member210that has the second end216, a mounting flange220at the second end216that at least partially encloses the second end216, and a transverse stiffener230positioned within the three dimensional structure212comprising a rigid support structure rigidly fixed to a first (bottom) flange240that may define a first interior wall, a web242that may define a second interior wall, and a second (top) flange244that may define a third interior wall of the three dimensional structure212. In addition, as shown inFIG. 2, the three dimensional structural frame member200may further include a second transverse stiffener232positioned within the three dimensional structure212comprising a rigid support structure rigidly fixed to the first flange240, the web242, and the second flange244.

The three dimensional structural frame member200may also include through holes, second through holes, and third through holes similar to through holes122, second through holes124, and third through holes118in the three dimensional structural frame member100.

Components of the three dimensional structural frame member200ofFIG. 2may have the same or similar arrangement and function in a similar manner as similarly numbered components of the three dimensional structural frame member100ofFIG. 1unless otherwise noted.

For instance, in some embodiments, the three dimensional structure212may comprise a single piece of sheet metal. Moreover, in some embodiments, the three dimensional structure212and mounting flange220may comprise a single piece of sheet metal. Further, in some embodiments, the three dimensional structure212may comprise an open three dimensional structure comprising the first flange240, the web242, and the second flange244. Further still, in some embodiments, the transverse stiffener230may be welded to the first flange240, the web242, and the second flange244of the three dimensional structure212. The transverse stiffener230may be welded to the first flange240, the web242, and the second flange244of the three dimensional structure212in the same or similar way as the transverse stiffener130is welded to the first flange140, the web142, and the second flange144of the three dimensional structure112. In addition, the second transverse stiffener232may be welded to the first flange240, the web242, and the second flange244of the three dimensional structure212in the same or similar way as the transverse stiffener230is welded to the first flange240, the web242, and the second flange244of the three dimensional structure212.

B. Three Dimensional Structural Frames

FIG. 3ashows a three dimensional structural frame300, according to an example embodiment. Three dimensional structural frame300includes a first three dimensional structural frame member300A and a second three dimensional structural frame member300B joined together at their first ends314A,314B by a plurality of fasteners350as shown inFIG. 3a-1. In some embodiments, the plurality of fasteners350may comprise three fasteners. And in some such embodiments, the fasteners of the plurality of fasteners350may comprise screws. Moreover, in some embodiments, the plurality of fasteners350may be installed in through holes in first ends314A,314B similar to through holes118in three dimensional structural frame member100.

In the illustrated example, the first three dimensional structural frame member300A and second three dimensional structural frame member300B may take the form of or be similar in form to the three dimensional structural frame member100. Accordingly, components of the first three dimensional structural frame member300A ofFIG. 3amay have the same arrangement and function in a similar way as similarly numbered components of the three dimensional structural frame member100ofFIG. 1, and components of the second three dimensional structural frame member300B ofFIG. 3amay have the same arrangement and function in a similar way as the similarly numbered components of the three dimensional structural frame member100ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 3bshows a back view of the three dimensional structural frame300. Further,FIG. 3cshows a top view of the three dimensional structural frame300, andFIG. 3dshows a front view of the three dimensional structural frame300. As shown inFIGS. 3band 3c, the three dimensional structural frame300may further include a support beam360connected to the three dimensional structure312A of the first three dimensional structural frame member300A and the three dimensional structure312B of the second three dimensional structural frame member300B. The support beam360may comprise the same or similar material as the frame member110.

In some embodiments, a three dimensional structural frame may include a connector for a fall protection harness (which may be referred to as a fall prevention cleat).FIG. 4shows a three dimensional structural frame400that includes a connector470for a fall protection harness, according to an example embodiment. The three dimensional structural frame400includes a first three dimensional structural frame member400A and a second three dimensional structural frame member400B joined together at their first ends414A and414B by a plurality of fasteners450as shown inFIG. 4-1.

As shown inFIGS. 4 and 4-1, the connector470is between the first end414A of the first three dimensional structural frame member400A and the first end414B of the second three dimensional structural frame member400B. With this arrangement, the plurality of fasteners450may join the connector470to the first three dimensional structural frame member400A and the second three dimensional structural frame member400B. Moreover, in some embodiments, the connector470may be welded to the three dimensional structure412A of the first three dimensional structural frame member400A and/or the three dimensional structure412B of the second three dimensional structural frame member400B. In some examples, the connector470may be fillet welded to the three dimensional structure412A and/or the three dimensional structure412B.

The connector470may comprise a variety of materials. For instance, in some embodiments, the connector470may comprise steel. And in some such embodiments, the connector470may comprise ½ inch hot rolled steel (HRS).

Further, in some embodiments, the connector470may strengthen the three dimensional structural frame400in the same or similar way as the transverse stiffener130and/or the second transverse stiffener132strengthen the three dimensional structural frame member100.

In the illustrated example, the first three dimensional structural frame member400A may take the form of or be similar in form to the first three dimensional structural frame member300A, and second three dimensional structural frame member400B may take the form of or be similar in form to the second three dimensional structural frame member300B. Accordingly, the first three dimensional structural frame member400A may have the same arrangement and function in a similar way as the first three dimensional structural frame member300A, and the second three dimensional structural frame member400B may have the same arrangement and function in a similar way as the second three dimensional structural frame member300B.

Moreover, in some embodiments, three dimensional structural frames may have more than one connector for a fall protection harness.FIG. 5shows a three dimensional structural frame500that includes a connector570for a fall protection harness, a second connector572for the fall protection harness, and a third connector574for the fall protection harness. The three dimensional structural frame500includes a first three dimensional structural frame member500A and a second three dimensional structural frame member500B joined together at their first ends514A and514B by a plurality of fasteners550.

The connector570may be between the first end514A of the first three dimensional structural frame member500A and the first end515B of the second three dimensional structural frame member500B. In addition, the connector570may be joined in the three dimensional structural frame500in the same or similar way as the connector470may be joined in the three dimensional structural frame400.

In addition, the second connector572may be located between the first end514A and the second end516A of the first three dimensional structural frame member500A. In some embodiments, the second connector572may be welded to the three dimensional structure512A of the first three dimensional structural frame member500A in the same or similar way as the connector470is welded to the three dimensional structure412A and/or the three dimensional structure412B. Moreover, the third connector574may be located between the first end514B and the second end516B of the second three dimensional structural frame member500B. In some embodiments, the third connector574may be welded to the three dimensional structure512B of the second three dimensional structural frame member500B in the same or similar way as the connector470is welded to the three dimensional structure412A and/or the three dimensional structure412B.

Further, in some embodiments, the connector570, the second connector572, and the third connector574may strengthen the three dimensional structural frame500in the same or similar way as the transverse stiffener130and/or the second transverse stiffener132strengthen the three dimensional structural frame member100.

In the illustrated example, the first three dimensional structural frame member500A may take the form of or be similar in form to the first three dimensional structural frame member300A, and second three dimensional structural frame member500B may take the form of or be similar in form to the second three dimensional structural frame member300B. Accordingly, the first three dimensional structural frame member500A may have the same arrangement and function in a similar way as the first three dimensional structural frame member300A, and the second three dimensional structural frame member500B may have the same arrangement and function in a similar way as the second three dimensional structural frame member300B.

In some embodiments, a three dimensional structural frame may be comprised of a single member.FIG. 6shows a three dimensional structural frame600, according to an example embodiment. The three dimensional structural frame includes a frame member610, mounting flanges620and630, a center support640, and transverse stiffeners650and652. The frame member610includes an elongated three dimensional structure612that has a first side614, a first end615, a second side616, a second end617, and a center support portion618. The first side614has a variable cross section from the first end615to the center support portion618, and the second side616has a variable cross section from the second end617to the center support portion618. The elongated three dimensional structure612further includes a first (bottom) flange660that may define a first interior wall, a web662that may define a second interior wall, and second (top) flange664that may define a third interior wall. With this arrangement, the elongated three dimensional structure612may comprise an open three dimensional structure with the first flange660, the web662, and the second flange664and may have a varying cross section. The frame member610may comprise the same or similar material as the frame member110.

As shown inFIG. 6, the mounting flange620may be located at the first end615and at least partially enclose the first end615, and the mounting flange630may be located at the second end616and at least partially enclose the second end616. The mounting flange620may include through holes622for mounting the frame member610. In the illustrated example, the mounting flange620may further include second through holes624. The mounting flange630in turn may include through holes632for mounting the frame member610. In the illustrated example, the mounting flange630may further include second through holes634.

The frame member610may comprise the same or similar material as the frame member110. Moreover, in some embodiments, the elongated three dimensional structure612may comprise a single piece of sheet metal. Further, in some embodiments, the elongated three dimensional structure612and mounting flanges620,630may comprise a single piece of sheet metal. The elongated three dimensional structure612and mounting flanges620and630may comprise the same or similar material as the frame member610.

Further, as shown inFIG. 6, the center support640is mounted at the center support portion618. The center support640may comprise the same or similar material as the frame member610.

Further still, as shown inFIG. 6, the transverse stiffener650is positioned within the elongated three dimensional structure612on the first side614of the elongated three dimensional structure612and comprises a rigid support structure rigidly fixed to the first flange660, the web662, and the second flange664, and the transverse stiffener652is positioned within the elongated three dimensional structure612on the second side616of the elongated three dimensional structure612and comprises a rigid support structure rigidly fixed to the first flange660, the web662, and the second flange664. In some embodiments, the transverse stiffeners650,652may be welded to the first flange660, the web662, and the second flange664in the same or similar way as the transverse stiffener130is welded to the first flange340, the web342, and the second flange344.

The transverse stiffeners650,652may comprise a variety of materials in variable thicknesses. For instance, in some embodiments, the transverse stiffeners650,652may comprise the same or similar material as the frame member610. However, in other embodiments, the transverse stiffeners650,652may comprise a different material than the elongated three dimensional structure612.

Further still, as shown inFIG. 6, the three dimensional structural frame600may further include a second transverse stiffener654within the elongated three dimensional structure612on the first side614of the elongated three dimensional structure612and comprises a rigid support structure rigidly fixed to the first flange660, the web662, and the second flange664, and a second transverse stiffener656within the elongated three dimensional structure612on the second side616of the elongated three dimensional structure612and comprises a rigid support structure rigidly fixed to the first flange660, the web662, and the second flange664.

The second transverse stiffeners654,656may comprise any of the materials that the transverse stiffeners650,652comprise. In some embodiments, the second transverse stiffeners654,656may comprise the same or similar material as the transverse stiffeners650,652and/or the frame member610. However, in other embodiments, the second transverse stiffeners654,656may comprise a different material than the transverse stiffeners650,652and/or the frame member610. The second transverse stiffeners650,652may be welded to the first flange660, the web662, and the second flange664in the same or similar way as the transverse stiffeners650,652are welded to the first flange660, the web662, and the second flange664. The transverse stiffeners650,652and/or the second transverse stiffener654,656may strengthen the three dimensional structural frame600, for example, by improving resistance of the three dimensional structural frame600to deformation, bending, rupturing, breaking and other modes of failure. Similarly, the center support640may strengthen the three dimensional structural frame600, for example, by improving resistance of the three dimensional structural frame600to deformation, bending, rupturing, breaking and other modes of failure.

The location of the transverse stiffeners650,652in the elongated three dimensional structure612with respect to the first end615and the second end617may be selected based on predetermined loading of the three dimensional structural frame600. Similarly, the location of the second transverse stiffeners654,656in the elongated three dimensional structure612with respect to the first end615and second end617and/or the transverse stiffeners650,652may be selected based on predetermined loading of the structural frame600. Other parameters of the three dimensional structural frame member600may be selected on predetermined loading of the three dimensional structural frame member600as well, such as the material or thickness of the frame member610, width of the first end615, and width of the second end617.

In some embodiments, a three dimensional structural frame that includes a single three dimensional structure may include a connector for a fall protection harness.FIG. 7shows a three dimensional structural frame700that includes a connector770for a fall protection harness, according to an example embodiment. The three dimensional structural frame700includes a frame member710, mounting flanges720and730, a center support740, transverse stiffeners750and752, and second transverse stiffeners754and756. Components in the three dimensional structural frame700ofFIG. 7may have the same or similar arrangement and function in a similar manner as similarly numbered components of the three dimensional structural frame600ofFIG. 6unless otherwise noted.

As shown inFIG. 7, the center support includes the connector770. The connector770may take the form of or be similar in form to the connector470. In some embodiments, the connector770may strengthen the three dimensional structural frame700in the same or similar way that the transverse stiffeners650,652and/or the second transverse stiffeners654,656strengthen the three dimensional structural frame600.

In some embodiments, a three dimensional structural frame that includes a single three dimensional structure may have two or more connectors for a fall protection harness. For instance, in some embodiments, a three dimensional structural frame that includes a single three dimensional structure may have three connectors arranged in the same or similar was as connectors570,572, and574are arranged in the three dimensional structural frame500.

In addition, in some embodiments, three dimensional structural frames may include a three dimensional structure that has a constant cross section similar to the three dimensional structure212. For instance, in some embodiments, a structural frame may comprise two three dimensional structural frame members that are joined at their first ends, where each three dimensional structural frame member takes the form of or is similar in form to the three dimensional structural frame member200. And in some such embodiments, the three dimensional structural frame may include one or more connectors similar to connector470.

Moreover, in some embodiments, a three dimensional structural frame may comprise a single three dimensional structure with a constant cross section similar to the cross section of three dimensional structure212. And in some such embodiments, the three dimensional structural frame may include one or more connectors similar to connector470.

Further, in some embodiments, a three dimensional structural frame may comprise a first three dimensional structural frame member that takes the form of or is similar in form to the three dimensional structural frame member100and a second three dimensional structural frame member that takes the form of or is similar in form to the three dimensional structural frame member200, where the first and second three dimensional structural frame members are joined at their first ends. And in some such embodiments, the three dimensional structural frame may include one or more connectors similar to connector470.

FIG. 8shows an enclosure800, according to an example embodiment. The enclosure includes a plurality of three dimensional structural frames810, opposing wall portions820interconnected by the plurality of three dimensional structural frames810, and a roof840secured to the plurality of the three dimensional structural frames810. In some embodiments, the enclosure800may have length of forty five feet.

The plurality of three dimensional structural frames810may take various different forms in various different embodiments. For purposes of illustration, the plurality of three dimensional structural frames810includes four three dimensional structural frames812,814,816,818. However, in other examples, the plurality of three dimensional structural frames810may include more or less than four three dimensional structural frames. The number of three dimensional structural frames in the plurality of three dimensional structural frames810may be selected based in part on a predetermined length and/or loading of the enclosure800.

The three dimensional structural frames812,814,816, and818may comprise any of the three dimensional structural frames described herein, including the three dimensional structural frames300,400,500,600, and700and example three dimensional structural frames that include a three dimensional structure that has a constant cross section. In some embodiments, the three dimensional structural frames812,814,816, and818may be the same as each other. However, in other embodiments, two or more of the three dimensional structural frames812,814,816, and818may be different. With this arrangement, the plurality of three dimensional structural frames810may comprise a combination of any of the three dimensional structural frames described herein.

The opposing wall portions820include a plurality of uniform wall sections830. For purposes of illustration, the plurality of wall sections830includes four wall sections832,834,836, and838. However, in other examples, plurality of wall sections830may include more or less than four wall sections.

FIG. 9shows aspects of a wall section900, according to an example embodiment. The wall sections832,834,836, and838may take the form of or be similar in form to the wall section900. The wall section900includes a wall panel portion910, a top wall portion920, sidewall portions930A,930B, and a bottom wall portion940. In some embodiments, the wall section900may comprise a single piece of formed sheet metal. Moreover, in some embodiments, the wall section900may comprise steel. Further, in some embodiments, the wall section900may be the same or similar material as the frame member110.

The sidewall portions930A,930B may be joined to sidewall portions of other wall sections to form opposing wall portions, such as the opposing wall portions820.

The bottom wall portion940is further shown inFIG. 9-1. For instance, the bottom wall portion940may include a support flange942that wraps around the bottom wall portion940. With this arrangement, the support flange942may strengthen the bottom wall portion940, for example, by improving resistance of the bottom wall portion940to deformation, bending, rupturing, breaking, and other modes of failure. The support flange942includes a through hole944.

Further, as shown inFIG. 9-1, the bottom wall portion940includes a through hole946. When wall section900is part of opposing walls of an enclosure, such as opposing walls820of enclosure800, a fastener may be installed in through hole946to secure wall section900to ground or a mounting surface that the enclosure is located over, such as a skid or frame on which equipment is disposed.

FIG. 10ashows three dimensional structural frames1010attached to walls sections1030, according to an example embodiment. In particular,FIG. 10ashows five three dimensional structural frames1010A-E connected to four wall sections1030A-D. The three dimensional structural frames1010A-E have through holes1012A-E, respectively and the wall sections1030A-D have through holes1032A-D, respectively. The three dimensional structural frames1010A-E may take the form of any of or be similar in form to any of the three dimensional structural frames described herein, and the wall sections1030A-D may take the form of or be similar in form to the wall section900.

As shown inFIG. 10a, a three dimensional structural frame is attached to a top wall portion, such as top wall portion940, of a wall section. Moreover, as shown inFIG. 10a, in some embodiments, the ends of certain three dimensional structural frames overlap and are simultaneously attached to two wall sections. For instance, the end of three dimensional structural frame1010B overlaps and is simultaneously attached to wall section1030A and wall section1030B, the end of three dimensional structural frame1010C overlaps and is simultaneously attached to wall section1030B and1030C, and the end of three dimensional structural frame1010D overlaps and is simultaneously attached to wall section1030C and wall section1030D.

Three dimensional structural frames1010may be attached to wall sections by hardware (e.g., fasteners) installed in through holes, such as through holes122,322A and322B, and622and632. Moreover, wall sections1010may be connected by sidewall portions, such as sidewall portions930A and930B.

In some embodiments, sidewall portions may be connected by a plurality of rivets (not shown). And in some such embodiments, the plurality of rivets may comprise one rivet per six inch length of the sidewall portion. Further, in some embodiments, a gasket may be located between wall sections, such as a gasket1040is located between wall section1030A and wall section1030B. As shown inFIG. 10a, the gasket1040may be located between the sidewall portion of wall section1030A and the sidewall portion of wall section1030B. In some embodiments, gasket1040may comprise a silicone bead, polyurethane, or structural adhesive (e.g., weatherproof adhesive). In addition, in some embodiments, gasket1040may weatherproof the plurality of rivets used to join the wall sections.

Further still, in some embodiments, the enclosure may further include a plurality of support members that extend between the opposing wall portions (not shown inFIG. 8). In some embodiments, the plurality of support members may have the same or similar material as the frame member110. The plurality of support members may strengthen the enclosure, for example, by improving resistance of the enclosure800to plastic deformation and/or buckling.

Moreover, in some embodiments, a roof of an enclosure, such as the roof840, may include a plate (or a plurality of plates) secured to the three dimensional structural frames. And in some such embodiments, the plate may comprise sheet metal and/or perforated sheet metal. Further, in some embodiments, the roof can further include a weatherproof membrane (or a plurality of membranes) overlaying the plate and attached to wall panel portions of wall sections.

FIG. 10bshows wall sections1080connected to a support member1090, according to an example embodiment. The enclosure800may further include one or more support members that may take the form of or be similar in form to the support member1090. The support member1090may tie each of the wall sections1080together. In addition, the support member1080may act as a lateral brace, improve rigidity of the wall sections1080, and/or improve resistance of the wall sections1080to shear loading, torsional loading, and axial loading.

As shown inFIG. 10b, the wall sections1080include twelve wall sections1080A-L. However, in other examples, the wall sections1080may include more or less than twelve wall sections. The number of wall sections in the wall sections1080may be selected based in part on a predetermined length and/or loading of an enclosure. In the illustrated example, certain wall sections of the wall sections1080may have different lengths (e.g., wall sections1080A and1080D) and/or different widths (e.g., wall sections1080A,1080D, and1080H).

The support member1090may take various different forms in various different embodiments. In some embodiments, the support member1090may comprise steel. Moreover, in some embodiments, the support member1090may be connected to an end of each wall section of the wall sections1080, such as a top end of the wall section when the wall section is oriented substantially perpendicular to ground. The term “substantially perpendicular,” as used in this disclosure, refers to exactly perpendicular or one or more deviations from exactly perpendicular that do not significantly impact lifting an enclosure as described herein.FIG. 10cshows a side view of the wall sections1080connected to the support member1090, andFIG. 10c-1shows aspects of the wall sections1080connected to the support member1090. As shown inFIG. 10c-1, in some embodiments, the support member1090may have a C-shaped cross section. And in some such embodiments, the support member1090may be oriented, such that an open portion1092of its cross section may face away from the wall sections1080. Other cross sectional shapes of the support member1090are possible as well, including rectangular or triangular. The length of the support member1090may be selected based at least in part on the number of wall sections in the wall sections1080. In addition, the thickness of the support member1090may be selected based at least in part on a predetermined loading of the wall sections1080and/or an enclosure (e.g., the thickness of the support member1090may increase as the predetermined loading increases).

In addition, the support member1090may define a wire way for electrical cabling associated with an enclosure. In some embodiments, the wire way may be partitioned to separate electrical cabling for AC circuits associated with the enclosure and electrical cabling for DC circuits associated with the enclosure. Moreover, in some embodiments, after electrical cabling is installed in the support member1090, a closing plate (not shown) may be connected over the open portion1092of the support member1090. With this arrangement, the closing plate may help to seal and protect the electrical cabling.

An enclosure may include at least two support members that take the form of the support member1090. A first support member may be connected to a first group of wall sections and a second support member may be connected to a second group of wall sections. The first group of wall sections may be substantially parallel to the second group of wall sections. With this arrangement, the first support member may be substantially parallel to the second support member.

FIG. 11ashows aspects of a roof1100of an enclosure, according to an example embodiment. The roof840may take the form of or be similar in form to the roof1100. As shown inFIG. 11a, the roof1100includes plates attached to three dimensional structural frames. In particular, plate1110A and plate1110B are secured to three dimensional structural frames1120and1122. Plates1110A and plates1110B may be secured to three dimensional structural frames1120and1122by hardware. In some embodiments, the hardware may take the form of a plurality of fasteners, such as a plurality of rivets.

The three dimensional structural frames1120and1122may take the form of or be similar in form to three dimensional structural frame300and/or three dimensional structural frame600. With this arrangement, the variable cross section three dimensional structure of the three dimensional structural frames1120and1122may create a slope to the roof1110and help to shed water, other fluids, and debris from the roof1100. In other examples, the three dimensional structural frames1120and1122may take the form of or be similar in form to three dimensional structural frames having a three dimensional structure with a constant cross section. With this arrangement, the three dimensional structure of the three dimensional structural frames1120and1122may help to provide structural support for the roof1100.

In addition, in some embodiments, other components may be attached to three dimensional structural frames1120and1122, including ceiling panels and insulation.

Further, as shown inFIG. 11a, the roof1100includes weatherproof membranes1130A and1130B overlaying plates secured to three dimensional structural frames (not shown). The membranes1130A and1130B may be attached to wall panel portions of the wall sections, such as wall portion910of the wall section900. For instance, the membranes1130A and1130B may be attached to wall panel portions of the walls sections by hardware, such as a plurality of fasteners. In some such embodiments, the plurality of fasteners may be installed in through holes of the wall sections, such as through holes1032A-1032D, and/or through holes of three dimensional structural frames, such as through holes1012A-E. And in some such embodiments, the plurality of fasteners may comprise a plurality of rivets. The weatherproof membranes1130A and1130B may help to reduce moisture from passing through the roof1100. In addition, the weatherproof membranes1130A and1130B may help to insulate the roof1100.

Further still, as shown inFIG. 11a, the weatherproof membranes1130A and1130B may cover plates and three dimensional structural frames, except for connectors for fall protection harness1170A,1170B, and1170C of the three dimensional structural frames. The connectors1170A,1170B, and1170C may take the form of or be similar in form to the connector470and/or the connector770. The connectors1170A,1170B, and1170C may improve safety of the roof1100and/or corresponding enclosure. For instance, when maintenance is performed on the roof1100and/or corresponding enclosure, fall protection harness may be installed in the connectors1170A,1170B, and1170C to provide fall protection.

FIG. 11bshows three dimensional structural frames1180connected to a strengthening member1190, according to an example embodiment. The enclosure800may further include a strengthening member that may take the form of or be similar in form to the strengthening member1190. The strengthening member1190may tie each three dimensional structural frame of the three dimensional structural frames1180together. In addition, the strengthening member1190may improve resistance of the three dimensional structural frames1180to torsion.

As shown inFIG. 11b, the three dimensional structural frames1180include twenty-two three dimensional structural frames1180A-V. However, in other examples, the three dimensional structural frames1180may include more or less than twenty-two three dimensional structural frames. The number of three dimensional structural frames in the three dimensional structural frames1180may be selected based at least in part on a predetermined length and/or loading of an enclosure in the same or similar way as the number of three dimensional structural frames in the plurality of three dimensional structural frames810is selected. Moreover, the three dimensional structural frames1180A-V may take the form of any of the three dimensional structural frames described herein in the same or similar way as the structural frames812,814,816,818of the plurality of structural frames810.

The strengthening member1190may take various different forms in various different embodiments. In some embodiments, the strengthening member1190may comprise steel. Moreover, in some embodiments, the strengthening member1190may be connected to a center of each three dimensional structural frame of the three dimensional structural frames1180.

FIG. 11b-1shows aspects the three dimensional structural frames1180connected to the strengthening member1190. As shown inFIG. 11b-1, in some embodiments, the strengthening member1190may have a U-shaped cross section. And in some such embodiments, the strengthening member1190may be oriented, such that an open portion (not shown) of its cross section faces toward ground. Other cross sectional shapes of the strengthening member are possible as well, including rectangular and triangular. The thickness of the strengthening member1190may be selected based at least in part on a predetermined loading of the three dimensional structural frames1180and/or an enclosure (e.g., the thickness of the strengthening member1190may increase as the predetermined loading increases).

As shown inFIG. 11b, each three dimensional structural frame member of the three dimensional structural frame members1180connected to the strengthening member1190may be spaced apart from adjacent three dimensional structural frame members a certain distance (e.g.,1180A is spaced apart from1180B a distance1196). In some embodiments, the distance between three dimensional structural frame members of the three dimensional structural frame members1180connected to the strengthening member1190may be substantially equal. However, in some embodiments, the distance between a first set of adjacent three dimensional structural frame members of the three dimensional structural frame members1180connected to the strengthening member1190(e.g.,1180A and1180B) may be different than a second set of adjacent three dimensional structural frame members of the three dimensional structural frame members1180connected to the strengthening member1190(e.g.,1180M and1180N).

The distance between adjacent three dimensional structural frame members of the plurality of structural frame members1180connected to the strengthening member1190may have various different values. For instance, in some embodiments, the distance between adjacent three dimensional structural frame members of the structural frame members1180connected to the strengthening member1190may be between 4 inches and 2 feet, such as 4 inches, 6 inches, one foot, and two feet. The distance between adjacent three dimensional structural frame members of the structural frame members1180connected to the strengthening member1190may be based at least in part on a width of the three dimensional structural frame members1180. In some such embodiments, the width of at least one three dimensional structural frame member of the three dimensional structural frame members1180may be 3 inches. Moreover, in some such embodiments, when a three dimensional structural frame member comprises a support beam (e.g., support beam360), the width of the three dimensional structural frame member may be 4 inches.

Further, as shown inFIG. 11b, beams1192and1194may be connected between three dimensional structural frame1180I and three dimensional structural frame1180J. With this arrangement, beams1192and1194may define a penetration in a roof of an enclosure. In some embodiments, an exhaust component may be installed in the penetration. The beams1192and1194may take various different forms in various different embodiments. For instance, in some embodiments, the beams1192and1194may comprise steel. In addition, in some embodiments, the beams1192and1194may comprise C-channels. Moreover, in some embodiments, the beams1192and1194may be flush with a web of the three dimensional structural frames1180I and1180J (e.g., web342A). Further, in some embodiments, the beams1192and1194may each be welded to the web of the three dimensional structural frames1180I and1180J. The thickness of the beams1192and1194may be selected based at least in part on a predetermined loading of the three dimensional structural frames1180and/or an enclosure (e.g., the thickness of the beams1192and1194may increase as the predetermined loading increases).

FIG. 12ashows an enclosure1200, according to an example embodiment. The enclosure1200may include a plurality of three dimensional structural frames1210, opposing wall portions1220interconnected by the plurality of three dimensional structural frames1210, and a roof1240secured to at least some of the three dimensional structural frames of the plurality of three dimensional structural frames1210. The opposing wall portions1220may include a plurality of wall sections1230. In some embodiments, the roof1240may be secured to all of the three dimensional structural frames of the plurality of three dimensional structural frames1210. With this arrangement, the roof1240may cover all of the three dimensional structural frames of the plurality of three dimensional structural frames1210.

Components of the enclosure1200ofFIG. 12amay have the same arrangement and function in a similar manner as similarly numbered components of the enclosure800ofFIG. 8. The enclosure1200may be used to surround equipment described herein.

In some embodiments, the enclosure1200may have a length of forty five feet. Moreover, in some embodiments, the enclosure1200may be designed to withstand loads caused by wind that has a speed of 150 miles per hour.

Further, in some embodiments, the enclosure1200may be secured to a mounting surface1290shown inFIG. 12b. Equipment may be located over the mounting surface1290. And in some such embodiments, the plurality of wall sections1230may be secured to the mounting surface1290via through holes in bottom wall portions of the wall sections, such as through holes946. Further, in some embodiments, the enclosure1200may be secured to a mounting plane.

FIG. 13shows a lift plate1300, according to an example embodiment. The lift plate1300may engage the ends of a plurality of three dimensional structural frames, such as the plurality of three dimensional structural frames810. The lift plate1300may include a planar portion1310comprising a series of a pattern of mounting holes1312for receiving hardware for securing the lift plate1300to the ends of the plurality of three dimensional structural frames and a connecting portion1320for engaging a harness that provides upward force to lift the plate and frames. The series of a pattern of mounting holes1312may include a first series of a pattern of mounting holes1314and a second series of a pattern of mounting holes1316. The connecting portion1320may include a hole1322for receiving the harness. As shown inFIG. 13, the hole1322may be located through the connecting portion1320.

In some embodiments, the lift plate1300may be configured to be secured to two or more three dimensional structural frames, such as twelve three dimensional structural frames. For instance, hardware may engage the first series of a pattern of mounting holes1314and through holes of the three dimensional structural frames, such as through holes1012B and1012C. Moreover, in some embodiments, the lift plate1300may be configured to be secured to two or more wall sections, such as four wall sections. For instance, hardware may engage the second series of a pattern of mounting holes1316and through holes of the wall sections, such as through holes1032A-D. In some embodiments, the hardware may include fasteners, such as bolts and rivet nuts.

The lift plate1300may comprise a variety of materials. For instance, in some embodiments, the lift plate1300may comprise steel. And in some such embodiments, the lift plate1300may comprise 5/16 inch hot rolled steel. Moreover, in other embodiments, the lift plate1300may comprise steel having other thicknesses.

In some embodiments, a connecting portion of a lift plate may include a reinforcement plate.FIG. 14ashows a lift plate1400, according to an example embodiment. The lift plate1400includes a connecting portion1420that includes a reinforcement plate1424. The lift plate1400may engage the ends of a plurality of three dimensional structural frames, such as the plurality of three dimensional structural frames810. The lift plate1400may include a planar portion1410comprising a series of a pattern of mounting holes1412for receiving hardware for securing the lift plate1400to the ends of the plurality of three dimensional structural frames and the connecting portion1420for engaging a harness that provides upward force to lift the plate and frames. The series of a pattern of mounting holes1412may include a first series of a pattern of mounting holes1414and a second series of a pattern of mounting holes1416. The connecting portion1420may include a hole1422for receiving the harness and the reinforcement plate1424. As shown inFIG. 14a, the hole1422may be located through the connecting portion1420and the reinforcement plate1424.FIG. 14bshows a perspective view of the lift plate1400, according to an example embodiment. In some embodiments, the hardware may include fasteners, such as bolts and rivet nuts.

Components of lift plate1400ofFIG. 14amay have the same arrangement and function in a similar manner as similarly numbered components of the lift plate1300ofFIG. 13. In addition, the lift plate1400may be secured to the ends of the plurality of three dimensional structural frames and wall sections in the same or similar way as the lift plate1300is secured to the ends of the plurality of three dimensional structural frames and wall sections.

In some embodiments, the reinforcement plate1424may be welded to the connecting portion1420. And in some such embodiments, the reinforcement plate1424may be fillet welded to the connecting portion1420. Moreover, the reinforcement plate1424may comprise a variety of materials. For instance, in some embodiments, the reinforcement plate1424may comprise steel. And in some such embodiments, the reinforcement plate1424may comprise the same or similar material as the planar portion1410and the connecting portion1420.

The reinforcement plate1424may strengthen the lift plate1400, for example, by improving resistance of the lift plate1400to deformation, bending, rupturing, breaking, and other modes of failure.

Further, in some embodiments, the lift plate1400may have a second reinforcement plate1426.FIG. 14cshows a side view of the lift plate1400, according to an example embodiment. As shown inFIG. 14c, the second reinforcement plate1426may be located opposite the reinforcement plate1424. The second reinforcement plate1426may have the same arrangement and function in a similar manner as the reinforcement plate1424. Moreover, the second reinforcement plate1426may be welded to the connecting portion1420in the same or similar way as the reinforcement plate1424is welded to the connecting portion1420.

The second reinforcement plate1426may strengthen the lift plate1400in the same or similar way as the reinforcement plate1400strengthens the lift plate1400.

FIG. 15ashows a liftable enclosure1500, according to an example embodiment. The liftable enclosure1500includes a plurality of the three dimensional structural frames1510and at least two lift plates1520. The at least two lift plates1520may be used to lift the liftable enclosure1500with an upward force in a direction that is substantially parallel to a direction1580. The term “substantially parallel,” as used in this disclosure, means exactly parallel or one or more deviations from exactly parallel that do not significantly impact lifting an enclosure as described herein.

In the illustrated example, a first three dimensional structural frame1512A may be located at a first end of the liftable enclosure1500and a second three dimensional structural frame1512B may be located at a second end of the liftable enclosure1500. Numerous three dimensional structural frames may be located between the first three dimensional structural frame1512A and the second three dimensional structural frame1512B. The three dimensional structural frames of the plurality of three dimensional structural frames1510may take the form of any of the three dimensional structural frames described herein.

Moreover, in the illustrated example, the at least two lift plates1520may include six lift plates1522A-F. However, in other examples, the at least two lift plates1520may include more or less six lift plates, such as two lift plates or eight lift plates. In some embodiments, when the at least two lift plates1520include six lift plates, the liftable enclosure1500may have a length of forty five feet. Moreover, in some embodiments, when the liftable enclosure1500has a length greater than forty five feet, the at least two lift plates1520may include more than six lift plates, such as eight lift plates. Lift plates may be equally distributed on two sides of the liftable enclosure1500. For example, as shown inFIG. 15a, when the at least two lift plates1520include six lift plates, three lift plates (1522A,1522C, and1522E) may be located on a first side of the liftable enclosure1500, and three lift plates (1522B,1522D, and1522F) may be located on a second side of the liftable enclosure1500.

As shown inFIG. 15a-1, the lift plate1522A includes a planar portion1523A comprising a series of a pattern of mounting holes1525A for receiving hardware for securing the plate to the ends of the plurality of three dimensional structural frames1510and a connecting portion1524A for engaging a harness that provides an upward force to lift the lift plate1522A and the three dimensional structural frames1510. The series of a pattern of mounting holes1525A may include a first series of a pattern of mounting holes1526A and a second series of a pattern of mounting holes1527A. The connecting portion may further include a hole1529A for receiving the harness and a reinforcement plate1528B. The hole1529A may be through the connecting portion1524and the reinforcement plate1528B. The lift plates1522B-F may take the form of or be similar in form to and function in a similar manner as the lift plate1522A.

The planar portion1523A may take the form of or be similar in form to the planar portion1410, the connecting portion1524A may take the form of or be similar in form to the connecting portion1420, the series of a pattern of mounting holes1525A may take the form of or be similar in form to the series of a pattern of mounting holes1412, the first series of a pattern of mounting holes1526A may take the form of or be similar in form to the first series of a pattern of mounting holes1414, the second series of a pattern of mounting holes1527A may take the form of or be similar in form to the second series of a pattern of mounting holes1416, the reinforcement plate1528A may take the form of or be similar in form the reinforcement plate1424, and the hole1529A may take the form of or be similar in form to the hole1422.

In some embodiments, the lift plate1522A may be configured to be secured to two or more three dimensional structural frames, such as twelve three dimensional structural frames. For instance, hardware may engage the first series of a pattern of mounting holes1526A and through holes of the three dimensional structural frames, such as through holes1012B and1012C. In some embodiments, the hardware may include fasteners, such as bolts and rivet nuts. With this arrangement, one four-through-hole pattern of the first series of a pattern of mounting holes1526A may correspond to through holes of a three dimensional structural frame, such as through holes1012B and1012C. Lift plates1522B-E may be configured to be secured to three dimensional structural frames in the same or similar way that the lift plate1522A is configured to be secured to three dimensional structural frames.

Further, the liftable enclosure1500includes opposing walls1530interconnected by the plurality of three dimensional structural frames1510, wherein the walls1530comprise a plurality of uniform wall sections1540. In the illustrated example, wall section1540A includes a wall panel portion1542A, a top wall portion1544A, and sidewall portions1546A and1548A. With this arrangement, the sidewall portions of the plurality of wall sections1540are connected to form at least a portion of a wall of the enclosure1500, where the plurality of three dimensional structural frames1510are attached to the top wall portions of the wall sections1540. In some embodiments, the lift plates1520may be connected to the wall panel portions of the wall sections.

The wall panel portion1542A may take the form of or be similar in form to the wall panel portion910, the top wall portion1544A may take the form of or be similar in form to the top wall portion920, and sidewall portions1546A and1548A may take the form of or be similar in form to the sidewall portions930A and930B.

In some embodiments, the lift plate1522A may be configured to be secured to two or more wall sections, such as four wall sections. For instance, hardware may engage the second series of a pattern of mounting holes1527A and through holes of the wall sections, such as through holes1032A-D. In some embodiments, the hardware may include fasteners, such as bolts and rivet nuts.

Further, in some embodiments, when the liftable enclosure1500includes a roof with a weatherproof membrane, such as the weatherproof membranes1130A and1130B, hardware may engage the series of pattern of mounting holes, through holes of the three dimensional structural frame members, and through holes of the wall sections after the weatherproof membrane is secured to the three dimensional structural frame members and walls sections. And in some such embodiments, the weatherproof membrane is secured to the three dimensional structural frame members via the through holes of the three dimensional structural frame members and via the through holes of the wall sections.

Further still, in some embodiments, using the at least two lift plates1520to lift the liftable enclosure1500may reduce damage to the enclosure after or while the enclosure is lifted. Moreover, in some embodiments, the enclosure1500may be designed to withstand loads caused by wind that has a speed of 150 miles per hour.

III. Example Methods

FIG. 16shows a method1600for building an enclosure, according to an example embodiment. Method1600begins at block1602with fabricating opposing walls of the enclosure by attaching sidewall portions of a plurality of wall sections comprising a wall panel portion, a top wall portion, and sidewall portions, wherein the sidewall portions of the plurality of wall portions are connected to form at least a portion of a wall of the enclosure. The opposing walls may take the form of or be similar in form to the opposing walls820, opposing walls1220, and/or the opposing walls1530; and the wall sections may each take the form of or be similar in form to the wall section900.

Method1600continues at block1604with attaching a plurality of three dimensional structural frames to the top wall portions of the wall sections of the opposing walls. The plurality of three dimensional structural frames may take the form of or be similar in form to the plurality of three dimensional structural frames810, the plurality of three dimensional structural frames1210, and/or the plurality of three dimensional structural frames1510.

In some embodiments, the opposing walls are fabricated while the sidewall portions are substantially horizontal. The term “substantially horizontal,” as used in this disclosure, means exactly horizontal or one or more deviations from exactly horizontal that do not significantly impact lifting enclosures described herein. Moreover, in some embodiments, the opposing walls are uprighted by attaching a lift plate to a top end of a plurality of wall sections and lifting the top end. The lift plate may take the form of or be similar in form to the lift plate1300and/or the lift plate1400.

FIG. 17shows a method1700for lifting an enclosure, such as the enclosure800and/or the enclosure1300, according to an example embodiment. Method1700begins at block1702with attaching a plurality of lift plates to a plurality of the ends of the three dimensional structural frames and wall panels sections of the opposing walls. Further, method1700continues at block1704with attaching a harness to the plurality of lift plates. And method continues at block1706with lifting the enclosure with an upward force to the harness.

In some embodiments, the lift plates comprise (i) a planar portion comprising a series of a pattern of mounting holes for receiving hardware for securing the plate to the ends of the plurality of frames and the wall panel sections, and (ii) a connecting portion for attaching the harness. The lift plates may take the form of or be similar in form to the lift plate1300and/or the lift plate1400. Moreover, in some embodiments, the harness may be attached to the plurality of lift plates via a hole in the lift plates, such as the hole1322and/or the hole1422.

Examples given above are merely illustrative and are not meant to be an exhaustive list of all possible embodiments, applications or modifications of the invention. Thus, various modifications and variations of the described methods and systems of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious to the skilled artisan.

It is understood that the invention is not limited to the particular methodology, protocols, etc., described herein, as these may vary as the skilled artisan will recognize. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. It also is to be noted that, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to “a three dimensional structural frame” is a reference to one or more three dimensional structural frames and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. The embodiments of the invention and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments and/or illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. It should be noted that the features illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and features of one embodiment may be employed with other embodiments as the skilled artisan would recognize, even if not explicitly stated herein.

Particular methods, devices, and materials are described, although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the invention. The disclosures of all references and publications cited above are expressly incorporated by reference in their entireties to the same extent as if each were incorporated by reference individually.