Patent Description:
Modular buildings and modular homes are sectional prefabricated buildings, or houses, that consist of multiple sections called modules. "Modular" is a method of construction differing from other methods of building. The module sections are constructed at an off site (sometimes, remote) facility, then delivered to the intended site of use. Complete construction of the prefabricated sections are completed on site. The prefabricated sections are sometimes lifted and placed on basement walls using a crane, the module prefabricated sections are set onto the building's foundation and joined together to make a single building. The modules can be placed side-by-side, end-to-end, or stacked, allowing a wide variety of configurations and styles in the building layout.

Such prefabricating modular building units constructed from standardized components in a controlled factory setting can be desirable due to the lowered costs and the increased quality which is obtainable in comparison to performing similar work on an outdoor construction job site. Thus prefabricated modular building units having a floor, walls and an overhead structure, and which contain all the systems and furnishings pre-installed within them can be preferred and known in the art. Building assembly systems composed of the means and methods to join two or more modular building units together to form a larger structure are also known in the art.

Devices which engage a specially prepared aperture on the upper or side surface of the structural frame so as to provide a releasable connection for the purpose of lifting, moving and connection of the modular building units are known in the art. For instance, <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT>, and PCT application number <CIT> disclose various connectors for coupling and forming modular building structures.

Although the connectors referred to above can help address a number of issues, in particular, for forming tall, multi-story and slender buildings, there is still a need in the art for connectors for forming short and few-story buildings that can help to reduce the overall cost and increase efficiency in the construction of such buildings. <CIT> describes a connecting structure and building modules with same. The connecting structure is used for connecting two layers, stacked up and down, of the building modules. The building modules comprise top angle pieces, base angle pieces and the building modules with corner post with cavities. The connecting structure comprises upper connecting mounting boxes fixedly connected with the base angle pieces and lower connecting mounting boxes fixedly connected with the top angle pieces. Module connecting supporting plates and guide rods are arranged between the corresponding upper connecting mounting boxes and lower connecting mounting boxes, holes are formed in the module connecting supporting plates, double-end limit awls and double-end twist locks passing through the holes respectively are arranged on the module connecting supporting plates, the double-end limit awls are connected with the corresponding base angle pieces and top angle pieces, and the double-end twist locks are connected with the corresponding upper connecting mounting boxes and lower connecting mounting boxes. The guide rods pass through the cavities and are connected with the double-end twist locks. <CIT> describes a container clamping device comprising: an alignment element comprising a first pin adapted to protrude into an upper opening of a part wedge of a first container and a second pin adapted to protrude into lower opening of a corner piece of a second container, a first member of clamping comprising a first projection member adapted to protrude into a side opening of the corner piece of the first container and a second projection member adapted to protrude into a lateral opening of the corner piece of the second container, and at least one clamping element adapted to press-connect the first clamping element and the alignment element.

According to the first aspect, there is provided a locating pin assembly for coupling a first modular frame to a second modular frame, in accordance with claim <NUM>. According to the second aspect these is provided a modular frame assembly in accordance with claim <NUM>. According to the third aspect there is provided a system of modular frame units for forming a modular building in accordance with claim <NUM>. According to the fourth aspect there is provided a method of coupling modular frame units for forming a modular building in accordance with claim <NUM>. According to the fifth aspect there is provided a hoistable modular frame unit in accordance with claim <NUM>.

In one aspect, the specification relates to a locating pin assembly for coupling a first modular frame to a second modular frame, the first modular frame having a first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member and a first-modular-frame-first-beam coupled at a first end of the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member, and the second modular frame having a second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member and a second-modular-frame-first-beam coupled at a first end of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member, the locating pin assembly having:.

In another aspect, the specification relates to a modular frame assembly having:
a first modular frame coupled to a second modular frame with a locating pin assembly sandwiched between the first modular frame and the second modular frame, the first modular frame having a first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member and a first-modular-frame-first-beam coupled at a first end of the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member, and the second modular frame having a second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member and a second-modular-frame-first-beam coupled at a first end of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member, wherein the locating pin assembly having:.

In another further aspect, the specification relates to a system of modular frame units for forming a modular building, having a first modular frame coupled to a second modular frame with a locating pin assembly sandwiched between the first modular frame and the second modular frame, wherein the locating pin assembly is as described herein.

In still another aspect, the specification relates to a method of coupling modular frame units for forming a modular building, having coupling a first modular frame to a second modular frame with a locating pin assembly sandwiched between the first modular frame and the second modular frame, wherein the locating pin assembly is as described herein.

In still another further aspect, the specification relates to a hoistable modular frame unit, comprising a locating pin assembly coupled to a first modular frame, wherein the locating pin assembly is as described herein.

Related aspects of applications of the locating pin assembly and the modular units are described in <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT>, and PCT application number <CIT> and the reader is directed to the relevant sections for further consideration.

The locating pin assembly, a hoistable pin assembly using the locating pin assembly, a method for coupling modular frame units having the locating pin assembly, a method of assembling a modular unit having the locating pin assembly and a building having the locating pin assembly will be described with reference to the Figures.

<FIG> relate an embodiment of a locating pin assembly <NUM> and <FIG> relate to another embodiment of a locating pin assembly <NUM>, where the difference relates to the stop <NUM> (as described below) in the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> of the pin <NUM>. <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> relate to an embodiment of a locating pin assembly <NUM> having a type of gusset plate <NUM> used to connect two modules (<NUM>, <NUM>), where each module (<NUM>, <NUM>) has a pair of perpendicular beams (<NUM>, <NUM>). <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> relate to an embodiment of a locating pin assembly <NUM> having a type of gusset plate <NUM> used to connect four modules (<NUM>, <NUM>), where each module (<NUM>, <NUM>) has a pair of perpendicular beams (<NUM>, <NUM>). <FIG> and <FIG> relate to an embodiment of a locating pin assembly <NUM> having a type of gusset plate <NUM> used to connect six modules (<NUM>, <NUM>), where each module (<NUM>, <NUM>) has a pair of perpendicular beams (<NUM>, <NUM>). <FIG> and <FIG> relate to an embodiment of a locating pin assembly <NUM> having a type of gusset plate <NUM> used to connect eight modules (<NUM>, <NUM>), where each module (<NUM>, <NUM>) has a pair of perpendicular beams (<NUM>, <NUM>). <FIG> relate to an embodiment of a locating pin assembly <NUM> having a type of gusset plate <NUM> used to connect four modules (<NUM>, <NUM>), where each module (<NUM>, <NUM>) has a single beam (<NUM> or <NUM>). <FIG> relate to an embodiment of a locating pin assembly <NUM> having a type of gusset plate <NUM> used to connect two modules (<NUM>, <NUM>), where each module (<NUM>, <NUM>) has three perpendicular beams (<NUM>, <NUM>). <FIG> relate to an embodiment of a locating pin assembly <NUM> having a type of gusset plate <NUM> used to connect four modules (<NUM>, <NUM>), where each module (<NUM>, <NUM>) has three perpendicular beams (<NUM>, <NUM>). Depending upon the type of the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> of the pin <NUM> and the type of gusset plate <NUM> used, different embodiments of the locating pin assemblies <NUM> can be formed, with each embodiment of the locating pin assembly <NUM> leading to a different embodiment of a coupled modular frame unit <NUM>.

<FIG> discloses an embodiment of a locating pin assembly <NUM> for coupling a first modular frame <NUM> to a second modular frame <NUM>. In the figures and specification, while reference is made to a modular frame, for ease of understanding, only a portion of the modular frame is shown. For instance, in <FIG>, although reference is made to a first modular frame <NUM>, only a corner portion of the first modular frame <NUM> that is used for coupling to the second modular frame <NUM> is shown. Similarly, although reference is made to a second modular frame <NUM>, only a corner portion of the second modular frame <NUM> that is used for coupling to the first modular frame <NUM> is shown. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, a bottom corner of a top modular frame unit is shown as the first modular frame <NUM>, and a top corner of a bottom modular frame unity is shown as the second modular frame <NUM>.

The embodiment of the first modular frame <NUM> shown in <FIG> has a hollow column (noted herein as the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>). Although the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> shown has a rectangular cross-section with rounded edges, other shapes and structures of the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> can be used, based on design and application requirements. The first end <NUM> of the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> has an opening <NUM> to receive the locating pin assembly <NUM>, as described herein.

A pair of beams <NUM> (noted herein as a first-modular-frame-first-beam) are coupled to the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>. The pair of beams <NUM> (first-modular-frame-first-beam) extending perpendicularly to the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> and to each other. In other words, if the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> lies in the Z-axis, one of the first-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM> extends in the X-axis and the other first-modular-frame-first-beam extends in the Y-axis. The method of coupling the first-modular-frame-first-beams <NUM> to the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> is not particularly limited, and should be known to a person of skill in the art. In one embodiment, for example and without limitation, the first-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM> is welded to the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>.

Each first-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM> has an opening <NUM> (noted herein as a first-modular-frame-first-beam-first-aperture) for receiving fastening means <NUM> to fasten the first modular frame <NUM> to the gusset plate <NUM>, as is described herein.

The second modular frame <NUM> is similar to the first modular frame <NUM> in structure, but relates to the top end of a lower modular frame, and is provided with features (as described herein) to assist with coupling of the first modular frame <NUM> to the second modular frame <NUM>, with the gusset plate <NUM> sandwiched in between the first modular frame <NUM> and the second modular frame <NUM>.

Like the first modular frame <NUM>, the second modular frame <NUM> shown in <FIG> has a hollow column (noted herein as the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>). Although the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> shown has a rectangular cross-section with rounded edges, other shapes and structures of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> can be used, based on design and application requirements, and so long as they can be used for coupling of the first modular frame <NUM> to the second modular frame <NUM>. The first end <NUM> of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> has an opening <NUM> to receive the locating pin assembly <NUM>, as described herein.

A pair of beams <NUM> (noted herein as a second-modular-frame-first-beam) are coupled to the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>. The pair of beams <NUM> (second-modular-frame-first-beams) extending perpendicularly to the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> and to each other. In other words, if the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> lies in the Z-axis, one of the second-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM> extends in the X-axis and the other second-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM> extends in the Y-axis. The method of coupling the second-modular-frame-first-beams <NUM> to the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> is not particularly limited, and should be known to a person of skill in the art. In one embodiment, for example and without limitation, the second-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM> is welded to the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>.

Each second-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM> has a pair of openings. The first opening <NUM> (noted herein as a second-modular-frame-first-beam-first-aperture) for receiving second fastening means <NUM> to fasten the gusset plate <NUM> to the second modular frame <NUM>. While the second opening <NUM> (noted herein as a second-modular-frame-first-beam-second-aperture) for receiving the fastening means <NUM> that couples the first modular frame <NUM> to the gusset plate <NUM> and the second modular frame <NUM>. Hence, the second-modular-frame-first-beam-second-aperture <NUM> aligns with the first-modular-frame-first-beam-first-aperture <NUM>, and is also sized to receive the fastening means <NUM> for coupling the first modular frame <NUM> to the second modular frame <NUM>. In one embodiment, as disclosed in the figures, the first opening <NUM> formed on the second-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM> is distal from the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>, while the second opening <NUM> being more proximate to the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>.

To couple the first modular frame <NUM> to the second modular frame <NUM>, a locating pin assembly <NUM> is used. The locating pin assembly <NUM> has a gusset plate <NUM> (also noted herein as the first gusset plate) and a pin <NUM>.

The gusset plate <NUM> disclosed herein is a flat plate positioned between the first modular frame <NUM> and the second modular frame <NUM>, and is provided with features to accommodate the pin <NUM> and help with coupling of the first modular frame <NUM> to the second modular frame <NUM>.

In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, one face of the gusset plate <NUM> sits on and contacts each of the second-modular-frame-first-beams <NUM>. Hence, the gusset plate <NUM> used in the embodiment shown in <FIG> is sized to be placed on two perpendicular second-modular-frame-first-beams <NUM>. In addition, in one embodiment, for example and without limitation, the gusset plate <NUM> is sized so that it contacts the entire width of the second-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM> on which the gusset plate <NUM> sits.

The gusset plate <NUM> is provided with a first gusset plate aperture <NUM> and a second gusset plate aperture <NUM>. The first gusset plate aperture <NUM> and second gusset plate aperture <NUM> are formed in the gusset plate <NUM> so that they align with the second-modular-frame-first-beam-second-aperture <NUM> and the second-modular-frame-first-beam-first-aperture <NUM>, respectively. In other words, the first gusset plate aperture <NUM> aligns with the second-modular-frame-first-beam-second-aperture <NUM>, and the second gusset plate aperture <NUM> aligns with the second-modular-frame-first-beam-first-aperture <NUM>.

In addition, the first gusset plate aperture <NUM> is formed to also align with the first-modular-frame-first-beam-first-aperture <NUM>. Hence, when fastening means <NUM> is used for coupling the first modular frame <NUM> to the second modular frame <NUM>, the fastening means <NUM> engages the first-modular-frame-first-beam-first-aperture <NUM>, the first gusset plate aperture <NUM> and the second-modular-frame-first-beam-second-aperture <NUM> to affix and couple the first modular frame <NUM> to the second modular frame <NUM>.

Furthermore, when second fastening means <NUM> are used to couple the gusset plate <NUM> with the second modular frame <NUM>, the second fastening means <NUM> engages the second gusset plate aperture <NUM> and the second-modular-frame-first-beam-first-aperture <NUM> for coupling the gusset plate <NUM> with the second modular frame <NUM>. By providing the gusset plate <NUM> with the second gusset plate aperture <NUM>, the gusset plate <NUM> can be aligned, positioned and coupled to the second modular frame <NUM> prior to coupling of the first modular frame <NUM> to the second modular frame <NUM>, and assist in manufacturing a modular structure.

The thickness of the gusset plate <NUM> is not particularly limited and can be varied depending upon design and application requirements. In a particular embodiment, the gusset plate <NUM> has a thickness equal to the thickness of a stop <NUM> (as described herein) provided on the pin <NUM>, so that the gusset plate <NUM> and the stop <NUM> provide a surface of uniform surface between the first modular frame <NUM> and the second modular frame <NUM>.

The gusset plate <NUM> is also provided with a cutout <NUM> for receiving and positioning of the pin <NUM> in the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the gusset plate <NUM> has a V-shaped cutout <NUM> to receive the pin <NUM>. In a particular embodiment, for example and without limitation, the cutout <NUM> on the gusset plate <NUM> is sized such that an edge <NUM> of the gusset plate <NUM> aligns with an edge <NUM> of the second-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM>. By sizing the cutout <NUM> as such, the edge <NUM> of the gusset plate <NUM> that defines the cutout <NUM> avoids sitting on or contacting an edge <NUM> at a first end <NUM> of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>. This can assist in insertion and positioning of the pin <NUM> in the opening <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>, and also assist in providing the space for the stop <NUM> to be positioned on the edge <NUM> at a first end <NUM> of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> to ensure proper positioning of the pin <NUM> in the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>.

The pin <NUM> in the pin assembly <NUM> engages the first gusset plate <NUM>, the first modular frame <NUM> and the second modular frame <NUM>. In the embodiment disclosed herein, the pin <NUM> is generally flat and elongated, and has a flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> and a flat inverted conically shaped section <NUM>. In other words, the flat conically shaped section is analogous to an inverted V-shaped flat section, with the apex of the V-shaped section being distal from the flat quadrilateral-shaped plate like section <NUM>. The flat inverted conically shaped (or V-shaped) section <NUM> is coupled to the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> at a first end <NUM> of the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM>, with the apex <NUM> of the flat inverted conically shaped section <NUM> positioned away from the first end <NUM> of the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM>. The apex <NUM> of the flat inverted conically shaped (or flat inverted V-shaped) section <NUM> is not particularly limited in shape, and in one embodiment, is formed by tapering of the lateral edges to an apex, which can be rounded.

The shape and size of the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> is not particularly limited, and can be varied, depending upon design and application requirements. In one embodiment, for example and without limitation, the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> is generally shaped as a rectangular cube, with the flat inverted conically shaped (or V-shaped) section <NUM> extending from the first end <NUM> of the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM>. When coupling the pin <NUM> with the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>, the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> contacts only one inner face of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> (as shown in the figures), while being spaced from an opposing inner face of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>, where the quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> is inserted. In a further embodiment, as shown in <FIG>, the width of the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> is nearly the same as the width of the inner face of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>, such that the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> contacts three inner faces of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>.

In one embodiment, as disclosed herein, to couple and affix the pin <NUM> to the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>, the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> of the pin <NUM> is provided with a first orifice <NUM> and a second orifice <NUM>, adapted and sized to receive third fastening means <NUM> and fourth fastening means <NUM>, respectively, to couple the pin <NUM> to the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>. To achieve the coupling, the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> is provided with a first opening <NUM> (noted herein as a second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member-first-opening) and a second opening <NUM> (noted herein as a second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member-second-opening). In a particular embodiment, for example and without limitation, as shown in <FIG>, the first orifice <NUM> is formed in between the stop <NUM> and a second end <NUM> of the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> of the pin <NUM>, and also being proximate to the stop <NUM> or first end <NUM> of flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> of the pin <NUM>. While the second orifice <NUM> is formed proximate to the second end <NUM> of the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> of the pin <NUM>.

When the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> of the pin <NUM> is inserted into the opening <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>, the stop <NUM> helps position the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> such that the first orifice <NUM> aligns with the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member-first-opening <NUM> and the second orifice <NUM> aligns with second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member-second-opening <NUM>. Third fastening means <NUM> can then be inserted into the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member-first-opening <NUM>, and the fourth fastening means <NUM> can be inserted into the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member-second-opening <NUM> to couple and affix the pin <NUM> in place in the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>.

As noted above, the pin <NUM> is provided with a stop <NUM> on the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> of the pin <NUM>, with the stop <NUM> being positioned close to the first end <NUM> of the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM>. The shape and size of the stop <NUM> is not particularly limited and can be varied depending upon design and application requirements, so long as the stop can help with positioning of the pin <NUM> in the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> or with alignment of the orifices (<NUM>, <NUM>) with the first and second apertures (<NUM>, <NUM>) in the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>.

In one embodiment, for example and without limitation, as shown in <FIG>, stop <NUM> is formed by a pair of ledges <NUM> that extend laterally outward from the lateral face of the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> of the pin <NUM>. When the pin <NUM> is positioned in the opening <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>, the pair of ledges <NUM> contact and sit on opposing edges <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>. This can help with proper positioning of the pin <NUM> in the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> and can also help with alignment of the orifices (<NUM>, <NUM>) for coupling of the pin <NUM> to the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>.

In a particular embodiment, the stop <NUM> has a thickness that equals the thickness of the gusset plate <NUM>, such that when pin <NUM> and the gusset plate <NUM> are placed in position on the second modular frame <NUM>, the gusset plate <NUM> and the stop <NUM> lie in a single plane. This can help with proper alignment of modular frames (<NUM>, <NUM>) and to help avoid tilting of the modular assembly.

As noted above, the pin <NUM> is also provided with a flat inverted conically shaped section <NUM> which is inserted into an opening <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>. Although it is not absolutely necessary to provide tapered section that extends beyond the first end <NUM> of the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> and gets inserted into the opening <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>, tapering of the section to form the flat inverted conically shaped section <NUM> can help with ease in alignment, insertion and coupling of the first modular frame <NUM> to the second modular frame <NUM>.

In one embodiment, as disclosed herein, the flat inverted conically shaped section <NUM> is provided with a hoisting aperture <NUM>. The hoisting aperture <NUM> being formed proximate to the apex <NUM> of the flat inverted conically shaped section <NUM>. When the pin <NUM> is coupled to the second modular frame <NUM>, the hoisting aperture <NUM> on the flat inverted conically shaped section <NUM> of the pin <NUM> can be used for hoisting the second modular frame <NUM> and positioning it at the appropriate site of construction of the modular assembly before the first modular frame <NUM> is positioned on the second modular frame <NUM>.

In addition to the above, although not shown, the hoisting aperture <NUM> can be used to affix the flat inverted conically shaped section <NUM> of the pin <NUM> to the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>, by forming an aperture near the first end <NUM> of the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> that aligns with the hoisting aperture <NUM> once the flat inverted conically shaped section <NUM> of the pin <NUM> is inserted into the opening <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>.

The fastening means (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) used to couple and fasten the different parts of the locating pin assembly <NUM> and modular frames (<NUM>, <NUM>) together are not particularly limited and can be varied depending upon design and application requirements. In one embodiment, for example and without limitation, the second, third and fourth fastening means are flat head screws. In another embodiment, for example and without limitation, the first fastening means are formed using a threaded bolt <NUM> and a compression sleeve <NUM>. Use of a compression sleeve <NUM> in the first-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM> can help avoid compression of first-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM> and assist with proper coupling of the first modular frame <NUM> to the second modular frame <NUM>.

<FIG> relates to an embodiment of a locating pin assembly <NUM> similar to the <FIG>. However, the embodiment shown in <FIG> is provided with a weld block <NUM> that can help to increase structural integrity and coupling of the first frame <NUM> to the second frame <NUM>, and can also help avoid compression of the second-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM>. The weld block <NUM> is provided with a weld block first aperture <NUM> and a weld block second aperture <NUM>. The weld block first aperture <NUM> can align with the second-modular-frame-first-beam-first-aperture <NUM> to receive second fastening means <NUM> to affix the gusset plate <NUM> to the second modular frame <NUM>. While the weld block second aperture <NUM> can align with the second-modular-frame-first-beam-second-aperture <NUM> to receive first fastening means <NUM> to affix the first modular frame <NUM> to the second modular frame <NUM>.

In one embodiment, as shown herein, the columns (<NUM>, <NUM>) and beams (<NUM>, <NUM>) in the modular frames (<NUM>, <NUM>) are made of hollow structural sections (HSS). The weld blocks <NUM> disclosed herein can help to provide structural support to the HSS and/or can help to avoid compression of the second-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM> when coupling the first modular frame <NUM> to the second modular frame <NUM>. In an alternative embodiment, non-HSS structures can be used; however, such structural members may not be preferred due to cost considerations.

<FIG> and <FIG> relates to another embodiment of a locating pin assembly <NUM> and a modular assembly, where a pair of first modular frames <NUM> are coupled to a pair of second modular frames <NUM> that are adjacent to each other. In such an embodiment, a pair of pins <NUM> are used to form the modular assembly. One pin <NUM> coupling one first modular frame <NUM> to one second modular frame <NUM>, while another pin <NUM> couples another first modular frame <NUM> to another second modular frame <NUM>.

The gusset plate <NUM> disclosed in the embodiment of <FIG> and <FIG> has a half octagon shape. The gusset plate <NUM> sits on and contacts each of the beams (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the two first modular frames <NUM> and the two second modular frames <NUM>, similar to the embodiment shown in <FIG>.

The gusset plate <NUM> is also provided with a plurality of first and second gusset plate apertures (<NUM>, <NUM>) that function analogous to the first and second gusset plate apertures (<NUM>, <NUM>) shown in <FIG>. Hence, each of the first gusset plate aperture <NUM> is adapted to receive a first fastening means to couple each of the first-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM> to the gusset plate <NUM> and its corresponding and aligning second-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM>.

Further, the gusset plate <NUM> is also provided with a cutout <NUM> sized to receive the pair of pins <NUM> for coupling the first modular frame <NUM> to the second modular frame <NUM>. In addition, the cutout <NUM> is sized such that the edge <NUM> of the cutout <NUM> aligns with edges <NUM> of the second-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM>, to accommodate positioning of the pins <NUM> in the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>.

The embodiment shown in <FIG> relates to an embodiment of <FIG>, where the modular assembly is provided with weld blocks <NUM> analogous to the weld blocks <NUM> shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> and <FIG> relate to another embodiment of a locating pin assembly <NUM> and a modular assembly, where a three sets of first modular frames <NUM> are coupled to three sets of corresponding second modular frames <NUM> that are adjacent to each other. In such an embodiment, a three pins <NUM> are used to form the modular assembly, with one pin <NUM> being used to couple one of the first modular frame <NUM> in each set with one of the second module frame <NUM>, positioned below in the first modular frame <NUM>.

The gusset plate <NUM> disclosed in <FIG> and <FIG> are shaped as three quarters of an octagon, and helps to affix a first set of the first and second modular frames (<NUM>, <NUM>) to the second and third set of the first and second modular frames (<NUM>, <NUM>). In this manner, all sets of the first and second modular frames (<NUM>, <NUM>) are affixed to one another to form the modular assembly.

<FIG> and <FIG> relate to another embodiment of a modular assembly where four adjacent first and second modular frame units (<NUM>, <NUM>) are positioned and coupled to one another. Four pins <NUM> are used, with each pin <NUM> coupling a first modular frame <NUM> to a second modular frame <NUM>, analogous to the embodiment shown in <FIG>.

The gusset plate <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG> is octagonal in shape with the cutout <NUM> being formed as a square hole in the gusset plate <NUM> for receiving the pins <NUM>. As in the previous embodiments, the gusset plate <NUM> helps to affix a first set of the first and second modular frames (<NUM>, <NUM>) to the second, third and fourth sets of the first and second modular frames (<NUM>, <NUM>). In this manner, all sets of the first and second modular frames (<NUM>, <NUM>) are affixed to one another to form the modular assembly.

<FIG> relate to embodiments of modular assemblies <NUM> where a different embodiment of the pin <NUM> is used compared to the pin <NUM> used in the embodiments shown in <FIG>.

In the embodiments shown in <FIG>, the pin <NUM> has a stop <NUM> formed as a planar stop plate <NUM>. Similar to the ledge <NUM> forming the stop <NUM> in the embodiments shown in <FIG>, the planar stop plate <NUM> is positioned on the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> near the first end <NUM> of the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM>. Hence, the position of the planar stop plate <NUM> in the embodiments shown in <FIG> is similar to the ledge <NUM> shown in the embodiments shown in <FIG>.

The planar stop plate <NUM> shown in the embodiments of <FIG> is planar and extends perpendicularly from the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM>. The thickness of the planar stop plate <NUM> can be similar or the same as the gusset plate <NUM>. In addition, the planar stop plate <NUM> can be sized such that the one or more edges <NUM> of the planar stop plate <NUM> aligns with one or more edges <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>, so long as the planar stop plate <NUM> can assist with alignment and positioning of the pin <NUM> in the opening <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>. In a particular embodiment, for example and without limitation, the planar stop plate <NUM> is square shaped with all four edges <NUM> of the planar stop plate <NUM> aligning and contacting with all four edges <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> that has a square cross-section. Such an embodiment can help with ease in positioning and alignment of the pin <NUM> in the opening <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM>. In addition, when such an embodiment is placed in position, the gusset plate <NUM> and the planar stop plate <NUM> can provide a near continuous planar surface between the first modular frame <NUM> and the second modular frame <NUM>, which can help with providing increased structural stability to the modular assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> relate to an embodiment of a modular assembly <NUM> similar to the embodiment shown in <FIG>, and utilizes a similar gusset plate <NUM>. However, in <FIG>, the pin <NUM> used has a planar stop plate <NUM> rather than a ledge <NUM> as a stop <NUM>. <FIG> shows an exploded perspective view of such a modular assembly <NUM>, while <FIG> an assembled modular assembly <NUM> with the locating pin assembly <NUM> being shown using a shade. As can be seen in <FIG>, the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> is positioned close to the surface of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member <NUM> having the first and second apertures (<NUM>, <NUM>). Hence, when two adjacent modular assemblies <NUM> (each having a first and second modular frame <NUM>, <NUM>) are coupled, the pin <NUM> in each modular assembly <NUM> is adjacent to each other with the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> in one modular assembly <NUM> facing the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section <NUM> in another adjacent modular assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a planar cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in <FIG>, and shows on the gusset plate <NUM> is positioned in between the beams (<NUM>, <NUM>), along with alignment of the beams (<NUM>, <NUM>) and columns (<NUM>, <NUM>). In addition, <FIG> shows that the planar stop plate <NUM> is positioned in between the columns (<NUM>, <NUM>) with each pin <NUM> being adjacent to each other.

<FIG> show an elevational view of the two modular assemblies <NUM> to show the positioning of the pin <NUM> in the modular assemblies <NUM>.

<FIG> relate to an embodiment of a modular assembly <NUM> similar to the embodiment shown in <FIG>, and utilizes a similar gusset plate <NUM>. However, in <FIG>, the pin <NUM> used is similar to the pin <NUM> disclosed in <FIG>, and the reader is referred to the relevant sections in the specification for further understanding. The other features of the pin <NUM>, gusset plate <NUM> and coupling to the first and second modular frame (<NUM>, <NUM>) is similar to the embodiments disclosed in <FIG>, and the reader is referred to the relevant sections in the specification for further understanding.

<FIG> relate to still another embodiment of a modular frame assembly <NUM>. The difference between the embodiment shown in <FIG> and <FIG> is that in <FIG>, the modular frames (<NUM>, <NUM>) only have a single second-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM> rather than a pair of second-modular-frame-first-beams <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In addition, the gusset plate <NUM> in the embodiment shown in <FIG> is formed by a rectangular plate with one edge of the rectangular plate functioning similar to the cutout <NUM> in the gusset plate <NUM> shown in <FIG>. Furthermore, the gusset plate <NUM> shown in <FIG> has a width similar to the width of the second-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a modular assembly <NUM> formed upon assembling the modular frames (<NUM>, <NUM>) with the locating pin assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG>. <FIG> shows a planar view of the modular assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG>, and the positioning of the gusset plate <NUM> on the beams (<NUM>, <NUM>).

<FIG> relate to still another further embodiment of a modular frame assembly <NUM>. The difference between the embodiment shown in <FIG>and <FIG> is that in <FIG>, the modular frames (<NUM>, <NUM>) have three second-modular-frame-first-beams <NUM> rather than a pair of second-modular-frame-first-beams <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. Two of the second-modular-frame-first-beams <NUM> extend in opposing directions and are co-axial, while one of the second-modular-frame-first-beams <NUM> is perpendicular to the other two second-modular-frame-first-beams <NUM>.

The gusset plate <NUM> used in the embodiment disclosed in <FIG> is similar to the gusset plate <NUM> used in the embodiment disclosed in <FIG>; however, it is sized such that the cutout <NUM> in the gusset plate <NUM> disclosed in the embodiment of <FIG> permits a single planar stop plate <NUM> of a single pin <NUM>. In addition, the gusset plate <NUM> contacts and sits on each of the three second-modular-frame-first-beams <NUM>, and used for coupling each of the three first-modular-frame-first-beam <NUM> to the corresponding and aligning three second-modular-frame-first-beams <NUM> for forming a modular assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> discloses an assembled side elevational view of the embodiment of the modular assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG>. <FIG> shows a plan view of the modular assembly <NUM> and how the gusset plate <NUM> sits on the beams (<NUM>, <NUM>). <FIG> shows a front elevational view of an assembled modular assembly <NUM>. In addition, as shown in <FIG>, weld blocks <NUM> (as discussed with reference to <FIG>) can also be used in the second-modular-frame-first-beams <NUM> for forming the modular assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> shows another further embodiment of a modular frame assembly <NUM>. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, two adjacent modular assemblies <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, are coupled form a larger modular assembly <NUM>. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the gusset plate <NUM> used is similar to the gusset plate <NUM> disclosed in <FIG>, and the reader is directed to the relevant sections of the specification for further understanding. The gusset plate <NUM> is octagonal in shape, and contacts, sits on and coupled to each of the six second-modular-frame-first-beams <NUM>, which can help to affix the modular assembly <NUM> together. The cutout <NUM> in the gusset plate <NUM> is rectangular (as opposed to being a square as in <FIG>) to accommodate the two pins <NUM> and the planar stop plate <NUM> of the two pins <NUM>, with the structure shown in <FIG> being assembled together to form the modular assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> shows a planar view of the modular assembly of <FIG>, along with alignment of the beams (<NUM>, <NUM>), columns (<NUM>, <NUM>), the gusset plate <NUM> and the pins <NUM>. <FIG> show side elevational views of two modular assemblies <NUM> (each having a first and second modular frame <NUM>, <NUM>) as shown in <FIG>, upon assembly. As shown in <FIG>, <FIG> weld blocks <NUM> as disclosed in <FIG> can be used for improving the structural integrity of the modular assembly <NUM>.

Certain adaptations and modifications of the described embodiments can be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Therefore, the above discussed embodiments are considered to be illustrative and not restrictive.

Claim 1:
A locating pin assembly (<NUM>) for coupling a first modular frame (<NUM>) to a second modular frame (<NUM>), the first modular frame (<NUM>) having a first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member (<NUM>) and a first-modular-frame-first-beam (<NUM>) coupled at a first end (<NUM>) of the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member (<NUM>), and the second modular frame (<NUM>) having a second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member (<NUM>) and a second-modular-frame-first-beam (<NUM>) coupled at a first end (<NUM>) of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member (<NUM>), the locating pin assembly (<NUM>) comprising:
- a first gusset plate (<NUM>) positioned between the first modular frame (<NUM>) and the second modular frame (<NUM>), the first gusset plate (<NUM>) having a first gusset plate aperture (<NUM>) and a second gusset plate aperture (<NUM>), the first gusset plate aperture (<NUM>) adapted for receiving a first fastening means (<NUM>) for coupling the first-modular-frame-first-beam (<NUM>) to the first gusset plate (<NUM>), and the second gusset plate aperture (<NUM>) adapted for receiving a second fastening means (<NUM>) for coupling the second-modular-frame-first-beam (<NUM>) to the first gusset plate (<NUM>); and
- a pin (<NUM>) engaging the first gusset plate (<NUM>), the first modular frame (<NUM>) and the second modular frame (<NUM>), the pin (<NUM>) having a flat quadrilateral-type plate like section (<NUM>) coupled to a flat inverted V-shaped section (<NUM>), the flat quadrilateral-type plate like section (<NUM>) adapted for engaging the end of the second-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member (<NUM>), and the flat inverted V-shaped section (<NUM>) adapted for engaging the end of the first-modular-frame-first-hollow-tubular-member (<NUM>),
characterized in that the flat inverted V-shaped section (<NUM>) has a hoisting aperture (<NUM>).