Modular system of removable elements

Abstract

A modular system of detachable elements, the system comprising a strut and a plurality of connectors. The strut has a body and a plurality of channel walls diverging outwardly from an outer surface of the body. The channel walls extend in a lengthwise direction of the body from one end of the body to the other end of the body. The strut has a symmetrical cross-sectional shape, and the diverging ends of the channel walls form two lips.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a modular frame system, and more particularly, to a system of posts and connectors, wherein all posts and connectors can form a frame system for other accessories and equipment to be attached thereto. While the present invention is suitable for a wide scope of applications, it is particularly suitable for stage building or for building any type of temporary (e.g. trade show booth), semi-temporary, or even permanent structure. BACKGROUND

[0002] This application is a non-provisional patent application of and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 080,146 filed on September 18, 2020, which is currently pending, and the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] While the entirety of this application is incorporated herein by reference, all controversies or exclusions of the parent application do not apply to the present invention. Any exclusions that can occur in the above-identified application are hereby expressly disavowed.

[0004] Generally, the existing European and American standard aluminum extrusions for stage building are based on the same square and slotted design, using the “outer lip” as the main structural support for accessories and fixtures, however, these types of existing designs are prone to failure.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a stage building aluminum extrusion with better structural integrity.

[0006] And, there is a need for a novel structural system for stage building and any type of structure building, whether the structure is temporary, semi-temporary, or permanent in nature. The embodiments provided herein can satisfy one or more of the above needs.

[0007] All patents, applications and documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein in their entirety. Also, if there is a conflict between the definitions or uses of terms in a reference document incorporated herein by reference and the definitions provided herein, the definition provided herein shall prevail, and the definition in the reference document shall not apply. The embodiments provided herein are intended to satisfy one or more of the above needs. While the embodiments can address one or more of the above needs, it should be understood that certain embodiments can not address any of the above needs. SUMMARY

[0008] In a general embodiment, a modular system of detachable elements includes a post having a body and a plurality of channel walls radiating outwardly from an outer surface of the body, the channel walls being disposed along a length of the body from a first end of the body to a second end of the body.

[0009] In another embodiment, which can be combined with any of the embodiments described herein, the strut can have a symmetric cross-sectional shape.

[0010] In another embodiment, which can be combined with any of the embodiments described herein, the channel walls can define a plurality of channels.

[0011] In another embodiment, which can be combined with any of the embodiments described herein, the channel walls can each have a flared end forming two lips on opposite sides of the channel wall.

[0012] In another embodiment, which can be combined with any of the embodiments described herein, the channels can each have a channel floor that is part of the outer surface of the body;

[0013] In another embodiment, which can be combined with any of the embodiments described herein, a plurality of holes can be provided along each channel floor, wherein at least one of the holes can accommodate a fastener.

[0014] In another embodiment, which can be combined with any of the embodiments described herein, the body of the strut can have a bore extending in a lengthwise direction from a first end of the body to a second end of the body.

[0015] In another embodiment, which can be combined with any of the embodiments described herein, the body of the strut can be entirely solid and not hollow.

[0016] In another embodiment, which can be combined with any of the embodiments described herein, a connecting core can be provided within the bore of the strut.

[0017] In another embodiment, which can be combined with any of the embodiments described herein, the connecting core can have a cross-sectional profile substantially similar to a cross-sectional profile of the bore.

[0018] In another embodiment, which can be combined with any of the embodiments described herein, the connecting core can have a plurality of threaded holes, wherein at least one of the threaded holes can accommodate a fastener.

[0019] In another embodiment, which can be combined with any of the embodiments described herein, the holes of the channel floor can be through-holes, wherein at least some of the through-holes correspond in at least one of size, position, and threading to at least some of the threaded holes of the connecting core.

[0020] In another embodiment, which can be combined with any of the embodiments described herein, the connecting core can be substantially shorter than the strut and capable of connecting an end of the strut to an end of another strut.

[0021] In another embodiment, which can be combined with any of the embodiments described herein, the connecting core can be made of a material that is harder than the material of the strut, such that the structural integrity of the strut is improved when the connecting core is accommodated within the bore of the strut.

[0022] In another embodiment, which can be combined with any of the embodiments described herein, the material of the connecting core comprises at least one of carbon steel and tungsten steel.

[0023] In another embodiment, which can be combined with the above embodiments, a connector can be provided, which is partially or entirely accommodated in the passage. The connector can be a coupling connector or a fitting connector.

[0024] In another embodiment, which can be combined with the above embodiments, the connector can have a bottom surface and can have at least one passage hole. The at least one passage hole of the connector can be provided in the bottom surface of the connector to accommodate a fastener.

[0025] In another embodiment, which can be combined with the above embodiments, the bottom surface of the connector is in direct contact with the passage floor of the pillar when the connector is accommodated and fastened in the passage of the pillar.

[0026] In another embodiment, which can be combined with the above embodiments, the at least one passage hole of the connector corresponds to at least one of the holes of the passage floor in at least one of size, position and threading.

[0027] In another embodiment, which can be combined with the above embodiments, a fitting fastener can be inserted from the bottom surface of the connector into the at least one passage hole of the connector such that the head of the fitting fastener is embedded in the connector while a portion of the shank of the fitting fastener is exposed and extends radially away from the pillar. The portion of the shank can be attached to a fitting.

[0028] In another embodiment, which can be combined with the above embodiments, the at least one hole of the connector has at least one of a countersink and a countersunk hole.

[0029] In another embodiment, which can be combined with the above embodiments, the connector can have at least two holes, wherein one of the at least two holes can accommodate a fastener when the fastener is fastened in a hole provided in the passage floor and the other of the at least two holes can accommodate a fitting fastener inserted therethrough from the bottom surface such that the head of the fitting fastener is located at the bottom surface of the connector while a portion of the shank of the fitting fastener is exposed and extends radially away from the pillar.

[0030] In another embodiment, which can be combined with the above embodiments, the cross-sectional profile of the connector can substantially correspond to the cross-sectional profile of the passage of the pillar in terms of size and / or shape.

[0031] In another embodiment, which can be combined with the above embodiments, the connector can be provided with a supplementary passage extending in length on the top side.

[0032] In another embodiment, which can be combined with the above embodiments, an end piece can have a first central plug coupled to the head. The central plug can be sized to be accommodated in a hole in the pillar such that the head is exposed and remains connected to the first end of the pillar. The central plug and / or the head can be provided with a plurality of threaded holes.

[0033] In another embodiment that can be combined with the overall embodiments, the surface of the end piece head can be flush with the channel floor of the strut.

[0034] In another embodiment that can be combined with the overall embodiments, the end piece head can be provided with a second centering rod coupled to the end piece head on a side opposite the first centering rod.

[0035] In another embodiment that can be combined with the overall embodiments, the outer surface of the lip can be provided with anti-slip strips or grooves.

[0036] Therefore, the present application relates to a modular frame structure that can substantially solve one or more problems resulting from limitations and drawbacks of the related art.

[0037] The detailed description set forth below of the presently described embodiments is not intended to represent the only or the best way to make or use the claimed application or subject matter. Rather, the detailed description is intended to be indicative of certain exclusive features of the particular embodiments of the application.

[0038] Certain features described herein individually can be implemented in combination with one another in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described herein in a single embodiment can be implemented separately in multiple embodiments or in any suitable subcombination.

[0039] The details of one or more embodiments of the application are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, embodiments, and advantages of the application will be apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0040] It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale and that the drawings are merely intended for illustrative purposes. In the description herein, directional terms, such as "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "up," "down," "over," "under," "above," "below," "behind," "in front of," "distal," and "proximal," are used with reference to the orientation of the figures. These directional terms are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of the application.

[0041] FIG. 1A An enlarged perspective view of an end piece embodiment according to an embodiment of the application;

[0042] FIG. 1B A perspective view of a strut embodiment according to an embodiment of the application;

[0043] FIG. 1C A perspective view of a strut embodiment according to an embodiment of the application; FIG. 1B A side view of a strut embodiment according to an embodiment of the application;

[0044] FIG. 1D An enlarged sectional view of a strut embodiment according to an embodiment of the application, showing the hollow central bore;

[0045] FIG. 1EAnother embodiment of a strut according to the embodiment of Figure 1, shown in enlarged cross-section, with a solid body having no central bore;

[0046] FIG. 2 An enlarged perspective view of a central connector according to an embodiment of the application;

[0047] FIG. 3 An enlarged perspective view of a first end of a strut according to an embodiment of the application, having four connectors and a central connector, all partially inserted into the strut;

[0048] FIG. 4A An enlarged top view of a coupling connector according to an embodiment of the application, which allows two struts to be coupled end to end;

[0049] FIG. 4B An enlarged perspective view of a coupling connector according to an embodiment of the application; FIG. 4A An enlarged side view of a coupling connector according to an embodiment of the application;

[0050] FIG. 4C An enlarged perspective view of a coupling connector according to an embodiment of the application; FIG. 4A An enlarged bottom view of a coupling connector according to an embodiment of the application;

[0051] FIG. 4D An enlarged perspective view of a coupling connector according to an embodiment of the application; FIG. 4A An enlarged perspective view of a coupling connector according to an embodiment of the application;

[0052] FIG. 4E An enlarged perspective view of a coupling connector according to an embodiment of the application, wherein, FIG. 4A four coupling connectors are inserted into the ends of a strut;

[0053] FIG. 4F An enlarged perspective view of a coupling connector according to an embodiment of the application, wherein, FIG. 4A four coupling connectors are inserted into the ends of a strut, while another strut is about to be coupled thereto;

[0054] FIG. 5A An enlarged top view of a coupling connector according to an embodiment of the application, having four separate recesses, which allows two struts to be coupled end to end;

[0055] FIG. 5B An enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view of a coupling connector according to an embodiment of the application, having four separate recesses, which allows two struts to be coupled end to end; FIG. 5A

[0056] An enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view of a coupling connector according to an embodiment of the application, having four separate recesses, which allows two struts to be coupled end to end; FIG. 6 FIG. 5B ​Enlarged cross-sectional view of coupling connector embodiment taken along line A-A;

[0057] Enlarged cross-sectional view of prior art device with fitting anchored to lip;

[0058] FIG. 8A Enlarged top view of fitting connector embodiment according to one embodiment of the present application, capable of attaching a fitting;

[0059] FIG. 8B Enlarged top view of fitting connector embodiment according to one embodiment of the present application, capable of attaching a fitting; FIG. 8A Enlarged side view of fitting connector;

[0060] FIG. 8C Enlarged bottom view of fitting connector embodiment according to one embodiment of the present application, capable of attaching a fitting; FIG. 8A Enlarged bottom view of fitting connector embodiment according to one embodiment of the present application, capable of attaching a fitting;

[0061] FIG. 8D Enlarged perspective view of fitting connector embodiment according to one embodiment of the present application, capable of attaching a fitting; FIG. 8A Enlarged perspective view of fitting connector embodiment according to one embodiment of the present application, capable of attaching a fitting;

[0062] FIG. 8E Enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line B-B according to one embodiment of the present application, showing additional fastener and fitting; FIG. 9A

[0063] FIG. 9A Enlarged top view of two fitting connectors according to one embodiment of the present application, housed in the same channel of a support post;

[0064] FIG. 9B Enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view according to one embodiment of the present application; FIG. 9A

[0065] Enlarged right side view of fitting connector according to one embodiment of the present application; FIG. 9C FIG. 9B

[0066] FIG. 9D Enlarged left side view of fitting connector according to one embodiment of the present application; FIG. 9B

[0067] Enlarged cross-sectional view taken along lines C-C and D-D according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 9E FIG. 9C 9D Enlarged top view of fitting connector according to one embodiment of the present application;

[0068] FIG. 10A Enlarged top view of fitting connector according to one embodiment of the present application; FIG. 9C

[0069] FIG. 10B ​​​​​​An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention FIG. 9C An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention

[0070] FIG. 10C An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention FIG. 9C An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention

[0071] FIG. 10D An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention FIG. 9C An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention

[0072] FIG. 11A An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention

[0073] FIG. 11B An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention FIG. 11A An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention

[0074] FIG. 11C An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention FIG. 11A An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention

[0075] FIG. 12A An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention

[0076] FIG. 12B An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention

[0077] FIG. 12C An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention FIG. 12A An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention

[0078] FIG. 13A An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention

[0079] FIG. 13B An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention FIG. 13A An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention

[0080] FIG. 14A An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention

[0081] FIG. 14B An enlarged side view of the fitting connector as per an embodiment of the present invention FIG. 14AHow the three middle struts are coupled;

[0082] FIG. 15 Perspective view of a modular frame structure embodiment according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0083] FIG. 16 Enlarged cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a strut according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Reference numeral explanation

[0085] 100: modular structure system

[0086] 101: fastener

[0087] 102: fitting / panel

[0088] 110: strut

[0089] 112: body

[0090] 114: mid-hole

[0091] 117: hole / through-hole / tapped hole

[0092] 120: channel wall

[0093] 121: channel

[0094] 122: external lip

[0095] 123: channel floor

[0096] 125: channel opening

[0097] 130: expanded tip of channel wall

[0098] 138: anti-slip ribbing

[0099] 140: connecting core

[0100] 147: hole / through-hole

[0101] 150: bonding connector

[0102] 151: auxiliary channel

[0103] 152: recess

[0104] 154: bottom floor

[0105] 156: bottom side

[0106] 157: hole

[0107] 160: fitting connector

[0108] 161: auxiliary hole

[0109] 165: Tolerance

[0110] 167: Hole

[0111] 169: Countersunk Tapered Hole

[0112] 170: Terminal

[0113] 171: Exposed Surface

[0114] 172: Head

[0115] 174: Center insert

[0116] 177: Hole

[0117] 179: Mounting hole. Detailed Implementation

[0118] Through the detailed description of the embodiments, the reader should gain a better understanding of the various embodiments, which are exemplary embodiments as defined in the claims. It should be understood that the scope of the embodiments as defined by the claims may be broader than the following embodiments.

[0119] The inventors have discovered a novel modular frame system that can be used in any structure that requires the use of some kind of underframe or structure.

[0120] In one embodiment, the inventors discovered that when a prior art extruded part is subjected to stress, the deformation and displacement of its outer lip are often greater than those of its middle portion. The inventors also found that the position of the outer lip (see Figure 7) is not suitable for installing a fixing device.

[0121] Now refer to FIG. 1A The modular frame structure system 100 of the present invention FIG. 15 (For example) It includes one or more pillars 110, which can all serve as the main backbone of the modular frame structure. FIG. 1A This shows the end of the support column 110 of the present invention. Here, the cross-sectional shape of the support column 110 is generally octagonal. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the support column 110 is octagonal, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the support column 110 may be rectangular, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the support column 110 may be circular, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the support column 110 may be polygonal, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the support column 110 may be a symmetrical polygon, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0122] The term "strut" as used herein is also known in the industry as an aluminum extrusion. It is understood that the material of the strut can be aluminum or other materials and can be made by extrusion or other means. For example, the shaping of the strut 110 can rely on extrusion, casting, CNC machining or other known shaping methods. The material of the strut 110 can be metal, ceramic, plastic, composite, any natural or synthetic material and any combination of the above. In addition, the strut 110 can be surface treated by any known method, such as sandblasting, anodizing and any known heat treatment method, such as T6 and T651. The present invention can especially strengthen any threaded hole with any other combination of known surface treatments and heat treatments.

[0123] Depending on the intended use, any part of the present invention can be made of suitable materials to withstand extreme temperatures and chemical conditions, including natural or synthetic polymers, various metals and alloys, naturally occurring materials, ceramic materials and all reasonable combinations thereof.

[0124] In FIG. 1A-FIG. 1E , the strut 110 has a body 112 that extends its entire length. The body 112 can radiate a plurality of channel walls 120. Each channel wall 120 has a length that is the length of the strut 110 from one end to the other. In some embodiments, the channel walls 120 are spaced apart.

[0125] In embodiments as shown in FIG. 1A , FIG. 1B , FIG. 1D , the strut 110 can have a central bore 114 that extends through the entire length of the strut 110. In other words, the central bore 114 can be a hollow space inside the body 112 from one end of the body 112 to the other. The central bore 114 is in fluid connection with the outside environment at each end of the body 112 through an opening, which can be, for example, an octagonal opening. FIG. 1A FIG. 1D is a view of the end of a strut 110 of the present invention showing the octagonal opening of the central bore 114.

[0126] In one embodiment, the user can use the central bore 114 to set cables or tubing. As will be described in more detail below, the central bore 114 can also accommodate one or more central connection cores 140 (see FIG. 2 ).

[0127] In embodiments as shown in FIG. 1E , the body 112 of the strut 110 can be completely solid and not have a central bore 114. FIG. 1E is a view of the end of a strut 110 of the present invention showing that the center of the body 112 is solid and does not have a central opening of a central bore 114.

[0128] ​Whether or not the central bore 114 is present, the body 112 can have at least one row of continuous holes 117 arranged along the length of the body 112 between two adjacent channel walls 120. As with the central bore 114, the holes 117 can be arranged in any pattern desired. For example, the holes 117 can be arranged in a row, in a pattern of rows, or in any other pattern desired. FIG. 1A As shown in the embodiments, each hole 117 can be a through hole that penetrates the thickness of the body 112, thus enabling the central bore 114 to be fluidly connected to the space between two adjacent channel walls 120 through the through hole 117.

[0129] In another embodiment shown, the row of continuous holes 117 arranged along the length of the body 112 are not through holes. For example, the holes 117 can be shallower, thus each hole 117 does not open to the central bore 114. In embodiments where the body 112 of the strut 110 does not have a central bore 114, the row of continuous holes 117 can not be through holes.

[0130] Also, in any of the embodiments described, the holes 117 in the channel floor 123 can be threaded or unthreaded. There can be any number of threaded / unthreaded holes. The threaded holes can include any known thread insert or thread protection structure.

[0131] As shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C the strut 110 can have a length. The length of the strut 110 depends on its particular use. Thus, manufacturers can produce struts 110 of various lengths to meet various uses. In FIG. 1B perspective view and FIG. 1C the side view, only one row of holes 117 is shown due to the angle of view. In the case of an octagonal body, there can actually be eight rows of holes 117, with one row of holes 117 between each pair of adjacent channel walls 120.

[0132] Referring now to FIG. 1D the channel walls 120 can be disposed on the body 112 and spaced equidistantly apart. The channel walls 120 radiate from the body 112, and two adjacent channel walls 120 form a channel 121. The channel 121 can be a slot having two ends that are open at the two ends of the strut 110. The top of each channel 121 is also open to the ambient environment through a channel opening 125. The width of the channel opening 125 is defined as the distance between two opposing outer lips 122. In other words, the channels 121 in the illustrated embodiments are similar to elongated grooves having open top ends. In some embodiments, all of the channels 121 of the present invention can not be closed channels (e.g., having a top that is closed and does not communicate with the ambient environment). In other embodiments, at least one channel 121 can be closed, but the other channels 121 remain open.

[0133] The channel floor 123 of each channel 121 can constitute an outer surface of the body 112. As described above, the channel floor 123 has a row of continuous holes disposed thereon.

[0134] Each channel wall 120 may have an expansion end 130. The expansion end 130 may be of various shapes. FIG. 1D In the middle, the expansion end 130 may be two extended outer lips 122. Each outer lip 122 may extend laterally from the radial direction of the channel wall 120. The outer side of each outer lip 122 may be provided with stripes 138 or grooves. The stripes 138 help to prevent the fittings attached to the support 110 from slipping.

[0135] The overall cross-sectional shape of channel 121 is defined by the shape of channel floor 123, channel wall 120, and outer lip 122. FIG. 1D In the middle, the cross-sectional shape of channel 121 is trapezoidal, but it can also be other shapes.

[0136] Now refer to FIG. 2 The connecting core 140 is shown here. The cross-sectional shape and configuration of the connecting core 140 may correspond to the central hole 114 of the support 110. The connecting core 140 may also have other cross-sectional shapes, such as circular, square or other polygonal shapes, and its shape may not even be related to the shape of the central hole 114. For example, a circular connecting core 140 may be inserted into an octagonal central hole 114, and in particular, the diameter of the circular connecting core 140 may be fitted into the octagonal central hole 114 with small or minimum tolerances. FIG. 16 Another embodiment of the display body 112 shows that certain portions of the body 112 have a thinned profile. Thinning the profile at various locations helps reduce overall weight, material usage, and / or manufacturing costs. Therefore, the cross-sectional shape of the central hole 114 can have outwardly radiating tips.

[0137] The connecting core 140 can be of various lengths. In one embodiment, its length can be much shorter than the length of the support column 110. In another embodiment, its length can be approximately the same as the length of the support column 110. In other embodiments, its length can be greater than the length of the support column 110.

[0138] FIG. 2 The connecting core 140 shown has a row of holes 147 arranged continuously along its length. In one embodiment, these holes 147 are spaced apart from each other. In another embodiment, some of the holes 147 are not uniformly distributed. The number of rows of holes 147 may be at least one. In one embodiment, there are four rows of holes 147, corresponding to the number of rows of through holes 117 on the support column 110. In this way, when the connecting core 140 is partially or completely accommodated in the hole 114 in the support column 110, the user can use one or more fasteners to fix the connecting core 140 in place. FIG. 3 The example depicted is the case where the connecting core 140 is accommodated within the central hole 114 of the support column 110. FIG. 2 The hole 147 shown may be threaded or unthreaded. FIG. 2 The hole 147 is relatively shallow, therefore FIG. 2The bottom of the hole 147 is visible. In another embodiment, the hole 147 can be deeper than this. FIG. 2 The hole 147 can be a through hole 147, connecting both sides of the connecting core 140.

[0139] FIG. 3 The central hole 114 of the body 112 of the strut 110 is depicted with a connecting core 140. Also visible in this figure are four partial coupling connectors 150, each housed in a respective channel 121. As will be described in more detail below, the coupling connectors 150 can be fully housed within the channels 121 and can move freely along the length of the channels 121. In other embodiments, the coupling connectors 150 can be only partially housed within the channels 121. As will be further explained in conjunction with FIG. 8A-FIG. 8C other figures, the present application can additionally be provided with accessory connectors 160, which are similar to, but different from, the coupling connectors 150. The user can freely decide how many coupling connectors 150 to use to connect two struts 110 end to end. In FIG. 3 four coupling connectors 150 are used, four channels 121 are left empty, so that any accessory connectors 160 (as will be described below) housed therein can freely slide from one strut 110 to an adjacent strut 110.

[0140] FIG. 4A-FIG. 4F Another embodiment of a coupling connector 150 is shown, which can be housed within a channel 121 of a strut 110. FIG. 4A A top view of such a coupling connector 150 is shown. The top side of the coupling connector 150 can be provided with two oblong recesses 152. Each recess 152 can have a bottom floor 154. The number of holes 157 can be two, each provided in a respective bottom floor 154. Each hole 157 can receive a fastener. The fastener can be, for example, a screw or a bolt, which is inserted into the recess 152 and through the hole 157. The head of the fastener can remain in the recess 152, while the end of the shaft extends out of the bottom side 156 of the coupling connector 150 into a hole 117 in the body 112 of the strut 110.

[0141] FIG. 4B A side view of the coupling connector 150 is shown. The coupling connector 150 can have a flat top and a flat bottom side 156. Overall, the cross-sectional shape of the coupling connector 150 can correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the channel 121, so that the coupling connector 150 can be housed within the channel 121.

[0142] In FIG. 4EIn the cross-sectional side view, four coupling connectors 150 are partially inserted into the four channels 121 of the support 110. The connecting core 140 is also partially inserted into the middle hole 114. The coupling connectors 150 can be fastened in place by inserting fasteners through corresponding through holes 117 on the main body 112 and into corresponding holes 147 of the connecting core 140.

[0143] After the connecting core 140 and the four coupling connectors 150 are fastened in place, another support 110 can be attached to it, as shown in FIG. 4F Similarly, the four coupling connectors 150 can be fastened to the second support 110 using fasteners. The connecting core 140 can be accommodated in the corresponding middle hole 114 of the second support 110. In this way, a plurality of supports 110 can be fixed to each other in a head-to-tail manner to form an elongated support 110.

[0144] Although FIG. 4F In the above, two supports 110 are connected by four coupling connectors 150 and one connecting core 140, but the present application is not limited to this specific combination, and any number of coupling connectors 150 and any number of connecting cores 140 can be used to connect two supports 110 in any feasible combination.

[0145] As can be seen from the above, the coupling connector 150 can connect two supports 110 head-to-tail. FIG. 4F The configuration of the coupling connector 150 shown can effectively separate the channel 121 from the channel 121 of another support 110. In other words, according to one embodiment of the embodiment, due to the blocking of the coupling connector 150, an object sliding in the channel 121 cannot slide to the next support 110.

[0146] FIG. 5A-5B Another embodiment of the coupling connector 150 is shown, wherein the coupling connector 150 can have independent grooves 152, each corresponding to a hole 157. The number of grooves 152 can be four, for accommodating four fasteners respectively. In FIG. 5A In the top view, the coupling connector 150 connects two supports 110 head-to-tail. FIG. 5B For FIG. 5A The cross-sectional side view shows the contents. Here, there is a coupling connector 150 on the top side of the support 110 and a coupling connector 150 on the bottom side of the support 110. The connecting core 140 is shown in the center. There are a total of four independent grooves 152, each corresponding to a coupling connector 150. Each independent groove 152 in the figure accommodates a fastener 101.

[0147] When two or more supports 110 are connected head-to-tail, the most fragile part should be where one end meets the other end. This is particularly evident when a bending force is applied to the support 110. For example, when the support 110 is subjected to a bending force, FIG. 5BThe area shown is its potential weakness. The channel wall 120 and outer lip 122 help mitigate the strong stress that may act on the fastener 101 and the threaded hole 117 on the body 112. In other words, without the channel wall 120 and outer lip 122, the fastener 101 is more likely to dislodge from the threaded hole 117. The channel wall 120 and outer lip 122 hold the connecting member 150 in place, thereby further reducing undue deformation.

[0148] FIG. 6 For along FIG. 5B The cross-sectional view drawn along the centerline AA shows that each of the four connecting members 150 has a shape that allows them to be respectively fitted into their corresponding channels 121. Fasteners 101 connect the connecting members 150 to the connecting core 140, clamping the main body 112 of the support column 110 between them. The connecting members 150 on the left and right sides do not have corresponding fasteners 101, showing their appearance without fasteners 101. However, the fasteners 101 can be inserted and pass through the holes 157 into the corresponding holes on the main body 112 and the corresponding holes on the connecting core 140.

[0149] exist FIG. 6 In the example of the connecting member 150, the gap or tolerance between the connecting member 150 and the channel wall 120 and / or the outer lip 122 is negligible. However, it should be understood that the scope of the invention is not limited thereto. According to the invention, in some embodiments, a certain degree of gap or tolerance may exist between the connecting member and its corresponding channel wall 120 and / or outer lip 122. FIG. 8E Similarly, the gaps or tolerances between the exemplary fitting connector 160 and the channel wall 120 and / or the outer lip 122 are negligible. In any embodiment of the invention, gaps or tolerances may indeed exist between the fitting / accessory connector and the channel wall 120 and / or the outer lip 122. FIG. 9E One example of a clearance or tolerance 165 is that a clearance or tolerance 165 exists between the fitting connector 160 and the outer lip 122. The importance of this tolerance 165 lies in its ability to allow the connecting connector 150 and the fitting connector 160 to slide within the channel 121 even when the outer lip 122 and / or the channel wall 120 are slightly bent in certain locations. Among various possibilities, the tolerance 165 described in this invention can be from 0.05 to 4.0 mm. The tolerance 165 described in this invention can also be from 0.05 to 2.0 mm. The tolerance 165 described in this invention can also be from 0.10 to 1.0 mm. In other embodiments, the tolerance 165 described in this invention can be up to 0.5 mm. In yet another embodiment, the tolerance 165 described in this invention can also be from 0.01 mm to 10.0 cm. Depending on the size of the channel 121, the tolerance can also be other dimensions.

[0150] Referring now to Figure 7, a front aluminum extrusion profile with a fitting clamped thereon is shown. This fitting is secured using screws and plates. The outer lip is clamped between the fitting and the plate by tightening the screws. The inventors have discovered that the attachment strength of the fitting to this prior art aluminum extrusion profile is only equal to the bending strength of the outer lip. In one example, a large, heavy camera or similar fitting, originally mounted at a specific angle to the front aluminum extrusion profile, may cause improper bending of the outer lip at the camera location. After prolonged use, the camera may deviate from its original angle due to its own size and weight. Furthermore, if the clamping provided by the screws and plates loosens, the camera may slide and shift along the length of the extrusion profile.

[0151] In one embodiment of the invention, the support 110 may also be provided with an accessory that is clipped onto its lip 122 in the manner depicted in FIG. 7.

[0152] Alternatively, in the system of the present invention, the accessory can be attached to the support column 110 using the accessory connector 160, which will be referred to below. FIG. 8A-FIG. 8E , FIG. 9A-FIG. 9E , FIG. 10A-FIG. 10D , FIG. 11A-FIG. 11C The following explanation is provided. In some embodiments, the installation of the fitting may reduce the mechanical stress on the outer lip 122. In some embodiments, the installation of the fitting may increase the mechanical stress acting on the body 112 of the support 110. In other embodiments, the mechanical stress of the fitting may be distributed between the body 112 of the support 110, the channel wall 120, and the outer lip 122.

[0153] FIG. 8A-FIG. 8E The example fitting connector 160 shown has three holes 167 and eight auxiliary holes 161. The lower side of the fitting connector 160 (see...) FIG. 8C The device has a countersunk tapered hole 169, corresponding to three holes 167. The countersunk tapered hole 169 allows the fastener 101 to pass through. FIG. 8E The hole 167 shown achieves flush mounting. In one embodiment, the countersunk taper hole 169 provides minimal tolerance between the head of the fastener 101 and the channel floor 123 (see...). FIG. 8E In this way, if the fastener 101 is accidentally loosened during operation, the fastener 101 can only retract to this extent. FIG. 8A For along FIG. 8A-FIG. 8D The cross-sectional view drawn by line BB includes an additional support 110, a fastener 101, and a plate-shaped fitting 102. The fastener 101 extends away from the support 110 and can be used to attach (directly or indirectly) a device (e.g., a camera, sensor, sign, lighting equipment, loudspeaker). See also... FIG. 8EEight auxiliary holes 161 may be threaded to accommodate fasteners 101 that pass through the top side of the fitting connector 160 and into the channel floor 123. The eight auxiliary holes 161 may be offset from the position of the hole 117 in the body 112. After a properly sized fastener 101 is inserted into the auxiliary hole 161 and eventually reaches the channel floor, further tightening allows the fastener 101 to push the fitting connector 160 towards the lip 122, thereby securely positioning the fitting connector 160. With this arrangement, the fitting connector 160 can be fixed at any position within the channel 121 without corresponding to the hole 117 in the body 112.

[0154] Although this example accessory connector 160 has eight auxiliary holes 161, the number of auxiliary holes is not actually limited. Furthermore, these auxiliary holes can be located anywhere on the accessory connector 160, even corresponding to the positions of the holes 117 on the main body 112. Moreover, the auxiliary holes 161 can be of any size, including the same size as the holes 167.

[0155] At FIG. 8E In this embodiment, the shank of fastener 101 extends upward toward fitting 102, which may be a plate as shown in the figure. The plate 102 may have threaded holes to accommodate the fastener 101. The plate 102 may be tightly accommodated within a channel of fitting connector 160. The distance between the two opposing outer lips 122 may be the same as the channel width of fitting connector 160, wherein the plate 102 may directly contact the two opposing outer lips 122. In this way, the opposing outer lips 122 can provide additional structural support to improve system integrity. In some embodiments, another fitting may then be attached to this plate 102.

[0156] In any of the embodiments described herein, the body 112 may have a specific solid thickness (regardless of whether this embodiment has a central hole 114), such that the holes 117 disposed along each channel floor 123 and extending into the thickness of the body 112 have a specific depth (X) to diameter (Y) ratio (see...). FIG. 9A-FIG. 9E). In some embodiments, the ratio of depth (X) to diameter (Y) is between and including 0.5:1 and 3:1, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the ratio of depth (X) to diameter (Y) is between and including 1 :1 and 2:1, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In other some embodiments, the ratio of depth (X) to diameter (Y) is between and including 1.3:1 and 1.8:1, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In other some embodiments, the ratio of depth (X) to diameter (Y) is between and including 1.5:1 and 1.7:1, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the ratio of depth (X) to diameter (Y) is 1.25:1, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the ratio of depth (X) to diameter (Y) is 1.5:1, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In yet another embodiment, the ratio of depth (X) to diameter (Y) is 1.75:1, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The above ratio of depth (X) to diameter (Y) can provide sufficient anchoring strength when the fastener 101 is secured in the hole 117. In another embodiment, the depth (X) can have sufficient thickness to fit a threaded shank.

[0157] FIG. 9C Two exemplary fitting connectors 160 are shown to be accommodated in the same channel 121. FIG. 9A For FIG. 9B And FIG. 10A-FIG. 10D A close-up view of the exemplary fitting connector 160 on the right is shown. The five holes 157 are of the same size and are uniformly distributed in a continuous manner. The holes 157 correspond in size and location to the holes 117 of the body 112. Any of the holes 157 can accommodate the fasteners 101 in both directions. In other words, although only two fasteners 101 are shown with their ends down into the body 112, the same fasteners 101 can be used to secure the body 112 in the other holes 157. Similarly, although only three fasteners 101 are shown with their shanks extending away from the body 112 (to attach to a fitting), the same fasteners 101 can be used to attach to a fitting in any of the other end holes 157. FIG. 9C Other views of the exemplary fitting connector 160 are shown. Each hole 167 can have a countersunk conical hole 169 on the underside of the fitting connector 160. It is understood that in a particular embodiment, the holes 167 are threaded to secure the fitting connector 160 in position within the channel 121. The downwardly disposed fasteners 101 need not necessarily be inserted into the corresponding holes 117 of the body 112. In this particular embodiment, the fasteners 101 can push against the channel floor 123 and thereby push the fitting connector 160 upwardly to secure it in position. However FIG. 9CThe five holes 167 of the fitting connector 160 are not threaded, but the holes 117 of the main body 112 are threaded. The fasteners 101 can be inserted through the holes 167 of the fitting connector 160 and locked into the threaded holes 117 of the main body 112. It should be understood that although FIG. 9D The central connector core 140 is not shown in the central hole 114, but the central connector core 140 can be disposed in the central hole 114.

[0158] FIG. 9A In order to FIG. 9C and 9B A close-up view of the example fitting connector 160 shown in the middle left. The middle portion of the fitting connector 160 has three holes 167. In the example shown, the three holes 167 are not threaded. Here, there are four auxiliary holes 161 on the longitudinal centerline of the fitting connector 160, so any fastener 101 that passes through them and has the appropriate size can reach the holes 117 of the main body 112. Since such a fastener 101 is smaller than the holes 117, it is difficult to stably engage with each other. However, the spacing distance of the auxiliary holes 161 is different from that of the holes 117 of the main body 112. In this way, at least one auxiliary hole 161 is offset from the holes 117 of the main body 112. In this way, at least one fastener 101 that passes downward through the auxiliary hole 161 can directly abut the channel floor 123, thereby pushing the fitting connector 160 upward to fix it in the channel 121. Therefore, the auxiliary holes 161 are threaded. If the fastener 101 passes downward through the auxiliary hole 161 but does not directly abut the channel floor 123 and is partially inserted into the hole 117 of the main body 112, such a fastener 101 can not be able to fix the fitting connector 160 at all.

[0159] In the present application, any of the holes 117 of the main body 112, any of the holes 157 of the coupling connector 150, any of the holes 167 of the fitting connector 160, any of the holes of the connector core 140, and any of the holes 177 of the end piece can be threaded or unthreaded. In particular, it should be understood that when any combination of the above-mentioned parts is used in the system, any combination of threaded and unthreaded can be used. For example, in an embodiment similar to FIG. 9C If both the holes 167 of the fitting connector 160 and the holes 117 of the main body 112 are threaded, the fastener 101 on the left side can have a double-threaded combination. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 11A-11C only the holes 167 of the fitting connector 160 are threaded, and the holes 117 of the main body 112 are not threaded. In another embodiment, the holes 167 of the fitting connector 160 are not threaded, and the holes 117 of the main body 112 are threaded.

[0160] FIG. 11C Another example fitting connector 160 shown in the middle has a counterbore 169 in each of its holes 167, and is fitted with an auxiliary hole 161.FIG. 9D The shafts of the two fasteners 101 are shown extending upwardly away from the body 112 of the post 110. Smaller fasteners 101 can be inserted downwardly from the upper side of the fitting connector 160 into the auxiliary holes 161 to abut the channel floor 123 (not shown). The auxiliary holes 161 can be threaded, and such smaller fasteners 101 can be pushed up the fitting connector 160 in a similar manner to the FIG. 12A-FIG. 12C The fitting connector 160 in the middle can be pushed up in a similar manner to the

[0161] The modular frame system of the present application can optionally include end pieces 170. FIG. 12A Two different end pieces 170 are shown. FIG. 12B The end piece 170 in the middle has a head 172 and a central insert 174 attached thereto. FIG. 12C Similar to the end piece 170 in the middle, except that it has a central insert 174 on the other end of the head 172. In the present application, the end piece 170 can have holes 177 in one or both of the head 172 and the central insert 174. The holes 177 are sized and positioned to correspond exactly to the holes 117 in the body 112. FIG. 12B The end piece 170 in the middle is coupled to the post 110 and secured in place by four coupling connectors 150. The outer surface of the head 172 can correspond to the surface of the channel floor 123 so that the outer surface of the head 172 is flush with the surface of the channel floor 123. Mounting holes 179 can be provided on the exposed face 171 of the end piece. These mounting holes 179 can be threaded to allow for attachment of fittings.

[0162] In another aspect, FIG. 13A The end piece 170 in the middle can be coupled to two posts 110 at each end, thereby achieving the effect of connecting the posts. In this case, four longer coupling connectors 150 (not shown) can be used to couple the end piece 170 to the two posts 110.

[0163] FIG. 13B 、 FIG. 14A 、 FIG. 14B 、 FIG. 15 and FIG. 13A Various uses of the above components in various applications are shown. In FIG. 13B 、 FIG. 14A 、 FIG. 14B 、 FIG. 15 The posts 110 can be coupled in parallel using fittings 102 (i.e. angle plates), thereby forming a reinforced structure. In ​ The system can be used to create structures for display boards or promotional screens.

[0164] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that the claimed embodiments can be practiced otherwise than as specifically set forth herein. For example, although a claim may recite a particular combination of elements, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the claimed embodiments can also be embodied in other combinations of the elements recited in the claims, even if the other combinations are not expressly set forth in the claims.

[0165] Particular embodiments and applications of the modular frame structure have been described herein. This description is meant to be taken only by way of example and to illustrate the appropriate use of the application. Unless otherwise noted, the embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments described. In addition, as is apparent from this disclosure, the present embodiments are capable of use in other contexts, and to carry out other processes, methods, and / or uses than described. Furthermore, to the full extent possible, the description of the embodiments herein is intended to be taken only by way of example, and the scope of the embodiments disclosed herein should be only limited as required by the appended claims.

[0166] Accordingly, the claims may, in some embodiments, include a combination of elements not expressly mentioned in the claims. In addition, the description of the embodiments disclosed herein is intended to be taken only by way of example and to illustrate the appropriate use of the application. Unless otherwise noted, the embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments described. In addition, as is apparent from this disclosure, the present embodiments are capable of use in other contexts, and to carry out other processes, methods, and / or uses than described. Furthermore, to the full extent possible, the description of the embodiments herein is intended to be taken only by way of example, and the scope of the embodiments disclosed herein should be only limited as required by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A system of detachable modular elements, characterized in that, The system comprises: a post having a body and a plurality of channel walls diverging outwardly from an outer surface of the body in a lengthwise direction of the body; wherein the channel walls define a plurality of channels; wherein each of the channels has a channel floor that is a portion of the outer surface of the body; and a plurality of holes disposed along each of the channel floors, the plurality of holes extending completely through the channel floor and wherein at least one of the holes can receive a fastener; wherein each of the channel walls has an expanded tip forming at least one lip, and the holes disposed along the channel floor are threaded or unthreaded; wherein the body has a bore disposed longitudinally from a first end of the body to a second end of the body, and each of the channel walls has at least two lips disposed on opposite sides of the corresponding channel wall.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein: further comprising a connecting core configured to be received in the bore.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein: The connecting core has a plurality of holes, at least one of the holes configured to receive the fastener.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein: The holes in the channel floor are through holes, and at least some of the holes correspond in at least one of size and location to at least some of the holes in the connecting core.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein: The connecting core is shorter than the post and is configured to connect the first end of the body to an end of another similar body.

6. The system of claim 2, wherein: The connecting core is made of a material that is harder than the material of the post, and the connecting core, when received in the bore, improves the structural integrity of the post.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein: The connecting core is made of at least one of carbon steel and tungsten steel.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein: further comprising a connector that is partially or completely received in one of the channels; the connector has a bottom surface and at least one through hole; the at least one through hole of the connector is disposed in the bottom surface of the connector to receive the fastener; and wherein, when the connector is received and fastened in the channel, the bottom surface of the connector is in direct contact with the channel floor.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein, The at least one through hole of the connector corresponds in at least one of size, location, and threading to at least one of the holes in the channel floor.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein: The at least one through hole of the connector is configured to receive the fastener from the bottom surface such that a head of the fastener is embedded in the connector while a portion of a shaft of the fastener is exposed and extends radially away from the post; wherein the portion of the shaft can be attached to a fitting.

11. The system of claim 8, wherein: The at least one hole of the connector has at least one of a counterbore and a countersink.

12. The system of claim 8, wherein: The connector has at least two holes, wherein one of the at least two holes is configured to receive the fastener when the fastener is fastened in the hole disposed in the channel floor, and the other of the at least two holes is configured to receive a second fastener that is disposed therethrough from the bottom surface such that a head of the second fastener is disposed in the bottom surface of the connector while a portion of a shaft of the second fastener is exposed and extends radially away from the post; wherein the portion of the shaft can be attached to a fitting.

13. The system of claim 8, wherein: The connector has a cross-sectional outer perimeter profile that substantially corresponds in fit and / or shape to a cross-sectional profile of one of the channels.

14. The system of claim 8, wherein: The connector has an auxiliary channel disposed along a length of a top side of the connector.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein: Further comprising an end piece having a first center rod coupled to a head, wherein the first center rod is sized to be received within the central bore of the post while leaving the head exposed and connected to the first end of the post, and wherein the center rod and / or the head is provided with a plurality of threaded holes.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein: The head has a surface that is flush with the floor of the channel, and further comprising a second center rod coupled to the head on an opposite side from the first center rod.

17. The system of claim 1, wherein: Further comprising a non-slip tread disposed on an outer surface of the at least one lip.

18. The system of claim 1, wherein: The holes along the floor of each channel have a depth and a diameter, and a depth to diameter ratio of 0.8:1 to 3:

1.

19. The system of claim 10, wherein: Further comprising a set of auxiliary holes in the bottom surface of the connector, wherein the set of auxiliary holes are threaded and are spaced apart from each other by a distance that is different from the distance between the holes along the floor of each channel, and wherein an auxiliary fastener can be fastened within one of the auxiliary holes and directly against the floor of the channel.

20. The system of claim 10, wherein: Further comprising a set of auxiliary holes in the bottom surface of the connector, wherein the set of auxiliary holes are threaded and are not aligned with the holes along the floor of each channel, and wherein an auxiliary fastener can be fastened within one of the auxiliary holes and directly against the floor of the channel.

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