Frame structures and shelters

The frame structure with a pivoting frame system and metal plate bending configurations addresses rigidity and flexibility issues, providing a strong and airtight covering structure for easy deployment.

JP7734425B2Active Publication Date: 2025-09-05佐藤 淳
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2022179121
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2021-11-08
Filing Date
2022-11-08
Publication Date
2025-09-05
Estimated Expiration
2042-11-08

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing frame structures face challenges in achieving rigidity while maintaining flexibility for folding and unfolding, and covering structures are often weak in strength and airtightness with complex folding parts.

Method used

A frame structure with a pivoting frame system that allows for compact folding and expansion, using a single metal plate with specific bending configurations and concave-convex portions to enhance rigidity and airtightness.

Benefits of technology

The frame structure achieves high rigidity and flexibility in shape and folding state, with improved strength and airtightness, allowing easy deployment and unfolding without breaking.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

To provide techniques regarding a frame structure with high degrees of freedom in a folded state and an outer diameter.SOLUTION: A deployable frame structure comprises: an axial frame; a rotatable frame that is rotatably connected to a connection portion provided on the axial frame, and is positioned along the axial direction of the axial frame in a folded state and positioned in a direction different from the axial direction of the axial frame in a deployed state, the rotatable frame having first and second rotatable frames connected to the connection portion of the axial frame; multiple braces supporting the first and second rotatable frames; and a branch plate connected to one end of the multiple braces, the branch plate rotatably connecting the multiple braces such that the multiple braces are positioned along the axial direction of the axial frame in the folded state and positioned in directions different from the axial direction of the axial frame in the deployed state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a frame structure and a shelter. [Background technology]

[0002] There are structures that can cover an object and form a space inside. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a foldable mobile shelter unit.

[0003] Furthermore, Patent Document 2 discloses a folding frame structure and a canopy fabric that covers the folding frame structure. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-108286 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 4227159 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] For example, Patent Document 2 describes a folding frame structure. One way to improve the rigidity of such a folding frame structure is to connect braces across the support members (frames) that make up the structure. However, connecting braces makes it difficult to fold. In other words, connecting braces to a frame improves rigidity, but it is likely to create restrictions when folding.

[0006] In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a technology relating to a frame structure that is excellent in rigidity and has a high degree of freedom in terms of its outer shape and folded state. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, the present invention provides an unfoldable frame structure that has an unfolded state and a folded state, in which, in the folded state, a pivoting frame connected to an axle frame is positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame, and in the unfolded state, is positioned in a direction different from the axial direction of the axle frame.

[0008] In detail, the present invention is a freely expandable frame structure having an unfolded state and a folded state, comprising: an axle frame; a pivoting frame that is rotatably connected to a connection part provided on the axle frame, and that is positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame in the folded state and is positioned in a direction different from the axial direction of the axle frame in the unfolded state, the pivoting frame having a first pivoting frame and a second pivoting frame connected to the connection part of the axle frame; a plurality of braces supporting the first pivoting frame and the second pivoting frame; and a branch plate to which one ends of the plurality of braces are connected, the branch plate rotatably connecting the plurality of braces so that in the folded state the plurality of braces are positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame and in the unfolded state the plurality of braces are positioned in a direction different from the axial direction of the axle frame.

[0009] The frame structure according to the present invention is very compact in the folded state because the pivoting frame connected to the axle frame is positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame. Furthermore, in the unfolded state, the pivoting frame is positioned in a direction different from the axial direction of the axle frame, allowing for a larger frame structure compared to the folded state. Furthermore, the provision of multiple braces improves rigidity. Furthermore, the provision of a branch plate to which one ends of the multiple braces are connected allows the multiple braces to be positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame in the folded state, making folding easier. In other words, a technology can be provided for a frame structure that is highly rigid and has a high degree of freedom in terms of its external shape and folded state.

[0010] In addition, in the frame structure of the present invention, the axis frame may be configured to be flexible in the axial direction and to have a first axis frame, a second axis frame that is slidable relative to the first axis frame, and a fixing portion that fits and fixes the first axis frame and the second axis frame in the unfolded state.

[0011] By making the axle frame extendable, it is possible to provide a frame structure that is very compact in the folded state, yet larger in the unfolded state than in the folded state. Furthermore, by providing a fixing portion, it is possible to improve rigidity in the unfolded state. In other words, it is possible to provide a technology for a frame structure that is highly rigid and has a high degree of freedom in its external shape and folded state. The axle frame may be configured so that the second axle frame rides on and follows the first axle frame in the folded state. This makes it possible to utilize the space in the direction perpendicular to the axle frame (height direction). As a result, in the folded state, the braces, branch plates, and pivoting frames connected to the first axle frame and the second axle frame are located at different heights. As a result, interference between the braces, pivoting frames, branch plates, and pivoting frames is suppressed in the folded state, allowing for compact folding.

[0012] Here, for example, there are covering structures that form an internal space and can be unfolded from a folded state, such as the shelter unit described in Patent Document 1. Conventional covering structures often have folding parts made of different materials or other components, such as hinge metal fittings, which makes them weak in strength and airtightness, and they also have problems such as being difficult to unfold.

[0013] Therefore, in view of the above problems, the present invention aims to provide a technology relating to a covering structure that is strong, airtight, easy to unfold, and can be unfolded from a folded state of metal plates.

[0014] In order to solve the above problem, in the present invention, the structure may be formed from a single metal plate, and the bending portion may be bent in a special way so that the bending portion can be unfolded without breaking.

[0015] In detail, the present invention relates to a covering structure formed by bending a flat metal plate to form a space inside, the covering structure comprising: a first bent portion provided on the metal plate and bent with a predetermined radius of curvature; and a second bent portion formed by further bending the first bent portion and bent in a direction different from that of the first bent portion with a larger radius of curvature than that of the first bent portion.

[0016] The covering structure according to the present invention is formed from a single metal plate, and therefore has superior strength and airtightness compared to conventional structures in which the folding portions are made of other materials such as hinge metal fittings or other members. Furthermore, by providing the first bending portion and the second bending portion, the folding portion can be unfolded without breaking, and therefore can be easily unfolded. Examples of the metal plate include aluminum alloys and steel materials.

[0017] Here, in the covering structure of the present invention, it is preferable that the radius of curvature of the first bent portion is 5 times or more the plate thickness of the flat plate member, and the radius of curvature of the second bent portion is 10 times or more the radius of curvature of the first bent portion.

[0018] By designing the radii of curvature of the first bent portion and the second bent portion as described above, the bent portions can be unfolded without breaking. The thickness of the flat plate member can be 0.2 to 5 mm. It is more preferable that the radius of curvature of the first bent portion is 5 to 50 times the thickness of the flat plate member, and the radius of curvature of the second bent portion is 10 to 100 times the radius of curvature of the first bent portion.

[0019] In the covered structure according to the present invention, the metal plate is made of an aluminum alloy or a steel material, and the elongation performance of the metal plate can be 10% or more.

[0020] By using an aluminum alloy or steel material as the metal plate and making the elongation performance of the metal plate 10% or more, the folded portion can be unfolded without breaking.

[0021] Here, the covering structure according to the present invention may be configured to further include a plurality of concave and convex portions arranged at predetermined intervals.

[0022] Providing multiple concave-convex portions can further improve strength. Furthermore, providing multiple concave-convex portions can reduce the axial rigidity in the cross section of the metal plate compared to when there are no concave-convex portions. As the axial rigidity decreases, the surface of the metal plate becomes more likely to shrink, and the metal plate becomes a structure in which snap-through buckling (phenomenon) is more likely to occur. On the other hand, since the bending rigidity of the metal plate can be increased compared to when there are no concave-convex portions, so-called Euler buckling becomes less likely to occur. As a result, the metal plate becomes a structure in which snap-through buckling (phenomenon) is more likely to occur. As a result, the covering structure can be easily deployed.

[0023] In the covered structure according to the present invention, the uneven portion may have an outer diameter that is 150 to 200 times the thickness of the metal plate, and a depth that is 10 to 20 times the thickness of the metal plate.

[0024] By setting the outer diameter of the concave and convex portions and the thickness of the metal plate as described above, the metal plate becomes less likely to break, further improving its strength. Also, the structure becomes more susceptible to snap-through buckling (phenomenon), allowing for easy deployment.

[0025] Here, the present invention can be specified as a method for manufacturing a coated structure. For example, the present invention is a method for manufacturing a coated structure that is formed by bending a flat metal plate to form an internal space, the method including: a first bent portion forming step of forming a first bent portion with a predetermined radius of curvature in the metal plate; and a second bent portion forming step of, after forming the first bent portion, further bending the first bent portion with a larger radius of curvature than the first bent portion in a direction different from that of the first bent portion to form a second bent portion.

[0026] According to the method for manufacturing a covered structure of the present invention, by including the first bent portion forming step and the second bent portion forming step, it is possible to manufacture a covered structure that is superior in strength and airtightness compared to conventional structures in which the bent portion is made of another material or other member, such as a hinge metal fitting. Furthermore, by providing the first bent portion and the second bent portion, it is possible to manufacture a covered structure in which the bent portion can be unfolded without breaking.

[0027] In addition, the coated structure according to the present invention may further include a concave-convex portion forming step for forming a plurality of concave-convex portions arranged at a predetermined interval, and in the concave-convex portion forming step, the corresponding convex portion mold and concave portion mold may be aligned so that a predetermined offset interval is formed in the planar direction of the metal plate, and the metal plate may be sandwiched to form the concave-convex portions.

[0028] By including the uneven portion forming process, the strength of the covering structure can be further improved. In addition, the structure is prone to snap-through buckling (phenomenon), making it possible to manufacture a covering structure that is easily deployable. The predetermined distance between the uneven portions may be such that they do not overlap with each other. The predetermined offset distance is the gap between the mold for the convex portion and the mold for the concave portion. The predetermined offset distance is preferably set based on an imaginary reference line that passes through the center of the gap between the mold for the convex portion and the mold for the concave portion, and the distance from the imaginary reference line is preferably 2 to 5 times the plate thickness. The plate thickness can be 0.2 mm to 5 mm.

[0029] The present invention may also be specified as a shelter. For example, the present invention is a shelter that forms a space inside, comprising: an expandable frame structure having an expanded state and a folded state; and a covering structure that is expandable in conjunction with the frame structure, is formed by bending a flat plate member, and forms a space inside, the frame structure comprising an axle frame and a rotating frame that is rotatably connected to a connecting portion provided on the axle frame, is positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame in the folded state, and is positioned in a direction different from the axial direction of the axle frame in the expanded state, the rotating frame having a first rotating frame and a second rotating frame connected to the connecting portion of the axle frame. The shelter comprises a frame, a plurality of braces supporting a first pivoting frame and a second pivoting frame, and a branch plate to which one ends of the plurality of braces are connected, the branch plate rotatably connecting the plurality of braces so that in a folded state the plurality of braces are positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame, and in an unfolded state the plurality of braces are positioned in a direction different from the axial direction of the axle frame, and the covering structure has a first bending portion provided on a flat plate member and bent at a predetermined radius of curvature, and a second bending portion provided within the first bending portion and bent in a direction different from the first bending portion with a radius of curvature larger than that of the first bending portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0030] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a technology relating to a frame structure that has a high degree of freedom in terms of its outer shape and folded state. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows perspective views of a covering structure according to a first embodiment in a folded state and an unfolded state. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of the covering structure according to the first embodiment, with the first bent portion and the second bent portion enlarged. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows a manufacturing flow of the covering structure according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 shows perspective views of the covering structure according to the second embodiment in a folded state and an unfolded state. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of a covering structure according to a second embodiment, with the first bent portion and the second bent portion enlarged. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows an enlarged plan view of the concave-convex portion according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows a manufacturing flow of the covering structure according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows a plan view of a mold for a recess according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows a plan view of a mold for a protrusion according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the state before and after the formation of the concave and convex portions. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 shows a plan view (unfolded state) of the frame structure according to the third embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows perspective views of the frame structure according to the third embodiment in a folded state and an unfolded state. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows elevation views of the axis frame of the frame structure according to the third embodiment in the folded state and the unfolded state. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating the first axis frame of the frame structure according to the third embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating the second axis frame of the frame structure according to the third embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a third axis frame of a frame structure according to the third embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a first pivot frame of a frame structure according to the third embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating the second pivot frame of the frame structure according to the third embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 shows a side view of an example of a flange fixing member according to the third embodiment. [Figure 20]FIG. 20 shows a side view of an example of a pin according to the third embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 shows a plan view of a connecting plate of an axle frame of a frame structure according to the third embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 shows a plan view of an example of a brace of a frame structure according to the third embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 shows a plan view of an example of a branch plate of a frame structure according to the third embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 shows a perspective view of an example of a shelter according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 shows a development of the upper side of the covering structure according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of an example of a shelter according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 shows a plan view of the frame structure according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 shows a development view of the covering structure (upper side) according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 shows a development view of the covering structure (lower side) according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 shows perspective views of a container device according to a sixth embodiment in a folded state and an unfolded state. [Figure 31] FIG. 31 shows a top view of the container apparatus according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 shows a front view of the container device according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 33] FIG. 33 shows a side view of the container apparatus according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 34] FIG. 34 shows an example of a covering structure according to Test Example 1. [Figure 35] FIG. 35 shows an example of a covering structure according to Test Example 2. [Figure 36] FIG. 36 shows an example of the concave-convex portion of the covering structure according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 37]FIG. 37 shows a diagram for explaining parameters and mathematical expressions of the concave-convex portion according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 shows a plan view of a mold for a recess according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 39] FIG. 39 shows a plan view of a mold for a protrusion according to the seventh embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0032] Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The following description is an example, and the present invention is not limited to the following content.

[0033] First Embodiment <Overview of the covering structure> FIG. 1 shows perspective views of a covering structure according to a first embodiment in a folded state and an unfolded state. FIG. 2 shows perspective views illustrating the schematic configuration of the covering structure according to the first embodiment. The covering structure 1 according to the first embodiment is formed by bending a flat metal plate 11 to form a space inside. The covering structure 1 includes a first bent portion 12 provided on the metal plate 11 and bent with a predetermined radius of curvature, and a second bent portion 13 formed by further bending the first bent portion 12 and bent in a different direction from the first bent portion 12 with a larger radius of curvature than the first bent portion 12.

[0034] The covering structure 1 according to the first embodiment is formed by folding in multiple locations, with an appropriate combination of mountain folds and valley folds, so that it can transition from a folded state to an unfolded state without breaking. Mountain folds are bent portions that are bent so that the folds (first bent portion, second bent portion) are on the outside. Valley folds are bent portions that are bent so that the folds (first bent portion, second bent portion) are on the inside. The first bent portion 12 is a bent portion that is bent once with a predetermined radius of curvature. The second bent portion 13 is a bent portion that is bent from the first bent portion 12 in a direction different from that of the first bent portion 12 with a larger radius of curvature than the first bent portion 12.

[0035] The metal plate 11 of the covering structure according to the first embodiment is made of an aluminum alloy having a thickness of 2 mm and an elongation performance of 10%. Steel may be used for the metal plate 11 instead of the aluminum alloy. The thickness of the metal plate 11 is preferably 0.2 to 5 mm. The elongation performance of the metal plate is preferably 10% or more.

[0036] It is preferable that the radius of curvature of the first bent portion 12 is 10 times or more the thickness of the metal plate 11, and the radius of curvature of the second bent portion 13 is 10 times or more the radius of curvature of the first bent portion 12. It is more preferable that the radius of curvature of the first bent portion 12 is 10 to 100 times the thickness of the metal plate 11, and the radius of curvature of the second bent portion 13 is 10 to 100 times the radius of curvature of the first bent portion.

[0037] <Method of manufacturing the coated structure> 3 shows a manufacturing flow of a covered structure according to the first embodiment. The manufacturing method of a covered structure 1, which is formed by bending a flat metal plate 11 and has an internal space, includes a first bent portion forming step (S01) of forming a first bent portion 12 with a predetermined radius of curvature in metal plate 11, and a second bent portion forming step (S02) of forming a second bent portion by further bending first bent portion 12 with a larger radius of curvature than the first bent portion in a direction different from that of the first bent portion.

[0038] The metal plate 11 is made of an aluminum alloy having a thickness of 2 mm and an elongation performance of 10%. Steel may be used for the metal plate 11 instead of the aluminum alloy. The thickness of the metal plate 11 may be 0.2 to 5 mm. The elongation performance of the metal plate is preferably 10% or more.

[0039] In the first bent portion forming step (S01), a rod-shaped member having a diameter corresponding to the radius of curvature of the first bent portion 12 is placed against the portion where the first bent portion 12 is to be formed, and the portion is bent so as to avoid wrinkles on the inside and cracks on the outside, thereby forming the first bent portion 12. The radius of curvature of the first bent portion 12 is appropriately designed to be 5 to 50 times the plate thickness of the metal plate 11. Once the first bent portion forming step is completed, the process proceeds to the second bent portion forming step.

[0040] In the second bent portion forming step (S02), a rod-shaped member having a diameter corresponding to the radius of curvature of the second bent portion 13 is placed against the portion where the second bent portion 13 is to be formed, and the portion is bent so as to avoid wrinkles on the inside and cracks on the outside, thereby forming the second bent portion 13. The radius of curvature of the second bent portion 13 is appropriately designed to be 10 to 100 times the radius of curvature of the first bent portion. Completion of the second bent portion forming step completes the manufacture of the covered structure 1. When manufacturing a covered structure 1 as shown in FIG. 1, the first bent portion forming step and the second bent portion forming step are repeatedly performed to manufacture the covered structure 1. Note that, although an example of forming a bent portion using a rod-shaped member has been described, other methods may be used to form a bent portion with a predetermined radius of curvature.

[0041] <Effects of the covering structure> The covered structure 1 according to the first embodiment is formed from a single metal plate 11, and therefore has superior strength and airtightness compared to conventional structures in which the bending portions are made of other materials or other members, such as hinge metal fittings. Furthermore, by using an aluminum alloy for the metal plate, setting the thickness of metal plate 11 to 0.2 mm to 5 mm and the elongation performance of metal plate 11 to 10% or more, and designing the radius of curvature of first bent portion 12 to be 5 to 50 times the thickness of the flat plate member and the radius of curvature of second bent portion 13 to be 10 to 100 times the radius of curvature of first bent portion 12, the bending portions can be unfolded without breaking.

[0042] Second Embodiment <Overview of the covering structure> FIG. 4 shows perspective views of the covering structure according to the second embodiment in a folded state and an unfolded state. FIG. 5 shows a perspective view illustrating the schematic configuration of the covering structure according to the second embodiment, with the first bent portion and the second bent portion enlarged. FIG. 6 shows an enlarged plan view of the uneven portion according to the second embodiment. The covering structure 1 according to the second embodiment is configured to further include a plurality of uneven portions 15 arranged at predetermined intervals in addition to the configuration of the covering structure 1 according to the first embodiment. Note that in FIGS. 4 and 5, the uneven portions 15 are drawn larger than they actually are. In the covering structure 1 according to the second embodiment, the same components as those in the covering structure 1 according to the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0043] The uneven portion 15 formed in the covered structure 1 according to the second embodiment has a configuration including a central portion 151 and five elongated portions 152 extending radially from the central portion 151 (hereinafter, the shape consisting of the central portion 151 and the five elongated portions 152 is also referred to as a petal shape). The central portion 151 and one end 152a of the elongated portions 152 are connected. The other end 152b is formed in a circular shape. The elongated portions 152 are formed so that their width is greatest near the center in the axial direction (the direction of radial extension), and their width gradually narrows toward the one end 152a and the other end 152b.

[0044] The concave-convex portion 15 can have an outer diameter 150 to 200 times the thickness of the metal plate 11 and a depth 10 to 20 times the thickness of the metal plate 11. The outer diameter is the diameter of a circle passing through the other end 152b of the elongated portion 152 of the concave-convex portion 15. The depth is the distance from the surface of the metal plate 11 to the bottom surface of the concave or convex portion.

[0045] <Method of manufacturing the coated structure> 7 shows a manufacturing flow of a covered structure according to the second embodiment. The manufacturing method of a covered structure according to the second embodiment differs from the manufacturing method of a covered structure according to the first embodiment in that it further includes a concave-convex portion forming step of forming the concave-convex portion 15. Specifically, the manufacturing method of a covered structure according to the second embodiment includes the following steps:

[0046] In the concave-convex portion forming step (S10), the metal plate 11 is sandwiched and pressed between a mold for concave portion 17 and a mold for convex portion 18 to form the concave-convex portion 15. Here, FIG. 8 shows a plan view of a mold for concave portion according to the second embodiment. FIG. 9 shows a plan view of a mold for convex portion according to the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the state before and after the formation of the concave-convex portion. The mold for concave portion 17 shown in FIG. 8 is made of wood, and has a petal-shaped concave portion formed in the center. The mold for concave portion 17 has an outer shape modeled after a petal shape to prevent interference with other molds for concave portion 17 adjacent thereto during manufacturing. Furthermore, the mold for convex portion 18 shown in FIG. 9 is made of wood, and has a petal-shaped convex portion formed in the center. The mold for convex portion 18 has an outer shape modeled after a petal shape to prevent interference with other molds for convex portion 18 adjacent thereto during manufacturing. In the second embodiment, the outer diameter of the petal shape forming the concave portion is larger than the outer diameter of the petal shape forming the convex portion. The outer diameter of the petal shapes forming the recesses and the outer diameter of the petal shapes forming the protrusions can be designed to be 150 to 200 times the thickness of the metal plate 11, and the depth can be designed to be 10 to 20 times the thickness of the metal plate 11. The difference between the outer diameter of the petal shapes forming the recesses and the outer diameter of the petal shapes forming the protrusions, in other words, the distance between the wall surface of the mold for recesses and the wall surface of the mold for protrusions, corresponds to the offset distance of the present invention. The offset distance is the distance between two dotted lines extending vertically in FIG. 10. The offset distance is preferably set based on an imaginary reference line (shown by a dashed line in FIG. 10) passing through the center of the gap between the mold for protrusions and the mold for recesses, and the distance from the imaginary reference line is preferably 2 to 5 times the plate thickness. The plate thickness can be 0.2 mm to 5 mm. The mold for recesses 17 and the mold for protrusions 18 may be made of resin (e.g., plastic), metal, etc. instead of wood.

[0047] After the uneven portion forming process (S10) is completed, the first bent portion forming process (S01) is performed, and after the first bent portion forming process is completed, the second bent portion forming process (S02) is performed, thereby producing the covering structure 1 according to the second embodiment.

[0048] <Effects of the covering structure> In addition to the effects of the covering structure 1 according to the first embodiment, the covering structure 1 according to the second embodiment can be further improved in strength by providing multiple concave-convex portions 15. Furthermore, by setting the outer diameter of the concave-convex portions 15 and the thickness of the metal plate 11 as described above, the metal plate 11 becomes less likely to break, thereby further improving its strength. Furthermore, by providing multiple concave-convex portions 15, the axial rigidity of the cross section of the metal plate 11 can be reduced compared to when the concave-convex portions 15 are not present. The reduced axial rigidity makes the surface of the metal plate 11 more likely to shrink, and the metal plate 11 has a structure that is prone to snap-through buckling (phenomenon). On the other hand, since the bending rigidity of the metal plate 11 can be increased compared to when the concave-convex portions 15 are not present, so-called Euler buckling is less likely to occur. As a result, the metal plate 11 has a structure that is prone to snap-through buckling (phenomenon). As a result, the covering structure 1 can be easily deployed.

[0049] <Third embodiment> <frame structure> Fig. 11 shows a plan view (unfolded state) of a frame structure according to a third embodiment. Fig. 12 shows perspective views of the frame structure according to the third embodiment in a folded state and an unfolded state. The frame structure 3 according to the third embodiment is an unfoldable frame structure that has an unfolded state and a folded state. The frame structure 3 includes an axle frame 4, a pivoting frame that is pivotally connected to a connection plate 5 (a connection portion of the present invention) provided on the axle frame 4 and is positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame 4 in the folded state and in a direction different from the axial direction of the axle frame 4 in the unfolded state, the pivoting frame having a first pivoting frame 6 and a second pivoting frame 7 connected to the connection plate 5 of the axle frame 4, multiple braces 8 that support the first pivoting frame 6 and the second pivoting frame 7, and a branch plate 9 to which one ends of the multiple braces 8 are connected, and which pivotally connects the multiple braces 8 so that the multiple braces 8 are positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame 4 in the folded state and in a direction different from the axial direction of the axle frame 4 in the unfolded state.

[0050] FIG. 13 shows elevation views of the axle frame of the frame structure according to the third embodiment in the folded and unfolded states. FIG. 14 shows a diagram illustrating the first axle frame of the frame structure according to the third embodiment. FIG. 15 shows a diagram illustrating the second axle frame of the frame structure according to the third embodiment. FIG. 16 shows a diagram illustrating the third axle frame of the frame structure according to the third embodiment. In FIGS. 14, 15, and 16, (a) shows a longitudinal elevation, (b) shows a plan view of the upper flange, (c) shows a plan view of the middle flange, (d) shows a plan view of the lower flange, and (e) shows a lateral elevation. The axle frame 4 is axially extendable and telescopic and includes a first axle frame 41, a second axle frame 42 that is slidable relative to the first axle frame 41, and a third axle frame 43 that is slidable relative to the second axle frame 42. The axle frame 4 may also include a first axle frame 41 and a second axle frame 42 that is slidable relative to the first axle frame 41. Furthermore, for example, the axis frame 4 may further include a fourth axis frame 44 that is slidable relative to the third axis frame 43.

[0051] The first axle frame 41 is composed of an upper flange 411 of the first axle frame, a middle flange 412 of the first axle frame, a lower flange 413 of the first axle frame, and multiple flange fixing members 45 that connect and fix the flanges arranged in three tiers. Instead of the flange fixing members 45, plate-shaped members may be used to connect the flanges arranged in three tiers. The same applies to the other axle frames. The upper flange 411 of the first axle frame is composed of a long, thin, rectangular plate-shaped member. A rail consisting of a through groove extending in the axial direction (longitudinal direction) is formed at a position slightly off-center from the central axis of the upper flange 411 of the first axle frame (the upper side of the paper in Figure 14(b)). A claw H421 of the second axle frame is slidably connected to the rail RH41 of this upper flange of the first axle frame. Although not shown, the claw H421 of the second axle frame has a protrusion on its side to prevent the upper flange of the first axle frame from falling off the rail RH41. The same applies to the other claws. An external connection portion EC is formed at one end (left end in FIG. 14) of the upper flange 411 of the first-axis frame for connecting to an external structure such as a covering structure 1. An inclined portion S411 of the upper flange of the first-axis frame is formed at the other end (right end in FIG. 14) of the upper flange 411 of the first-axis frame, inclined toward the lower flange. Two locking recesses RD41 of the first-axis frame are formed on the one end side (left side in FIG. 14) of the inclined portion S411 of the upper flange of the first-axis frame, which connect with locking protrusions D421 of the second-axis frame. A rail RH41 of the upper flange of the first-axis frame extends to the inclined portion S411 of the upper flange of the first-axis frame, and a claw H41 of the first-axis frame is formed near the inclined portion S411 of the upper flange of the first-axis frame and below the rail RH41 of the upper flange of the first-axis frame, which is slidably connected to a rail RH423 of the lower flange of the second-axis frame. Two locking protrusions D41 of the first axis frame are formed on the other end side (right side in Figure 14) of the inclined portion S411 of the upper flange of the first axis frame, which connect with the locking recesses RD423 of the second axis frame.Flange fixing member holes WH for fixing flange fixing members 45 are formed at a predetermined interval near both longitudinal edges of the upper flange 411 of the first axis frame. The flange fixing member holes WH of the upper flange of the first axis frame correspond to the positions of the flange fixing member holes WH of the middle flange of the first axis frame.

[0052] The middle flange 412 of the first-axle frame is composed of a long, narrow rectangular plate-like member. The middle flange 412 of the first-axle frame is formed shorter than the upper flange 411 of the first-axle frame and the lower flange 413 of the first-axle frame. One end of the middle flange 412 of the first-axle frame (the left side in FIG. 14) is formed with two brace connection portions BC412 of the middle flange of the first-axle frame, which are through holes and rotatably connect the braces 8 via pins P1. The inner diameter of the brace connection portions BC412 of the middle flange of the first-axle frame is designed to match the outer diameter of the pin shaft portion P1a (see FIG. 20). The same applies to the other brace connection portions. In addition, near the brace connection portions BC412 of the middle flange of the first-axle frame, a brace connection rail BR41 of the middle flange of the first-axle frame, which is a through groove, extends in the axial direction (longitudinal direction) and connects the brace 8 via pins P1 in a rotatable and slidable manner. The width of the brace connection rail BR41 on the middle flange of the first axle frame is designed to match the outer diameter of the pin shaft portion P1a (see Figure 20). The same is true for the other brace connection rails. Flange fixing member holes WH for fixing the flange fixing members 45 are formed at a predetermined interval near both longitudinal edges and near the central axis of the middle flange 412 of the first axle frame. The flange fixing member holes WH of the middle flange of the first axle frame formed near both longitudinal edges correspond to the positions of the flange fixing member holes WH of the upper flange of the first axle frame. Furthermore, the flange fixing member holes WH of the middle flange of the first axle frame formed near the central axis correspond to the position of the flange fixing member holes WH of the lower flange of the first axle frame.

[0053] The bottom flange 413 of the first-axis frame is composed of a long, narrow, rectangular plate-like member. On one end side (left side in FIG. 14) of the bottom flange 413 of the first-axis frame, an inclined portion S413 of the bottom flange of the first-axis frame is formed, which is inclined toward the top flange. On the one end side of the inclined portion S413 of the bottom flange of the first-axis frame, an external connection portion EC is formed for connecting to other structures, such as the covering structure 1. In addition, on the other end side (right side in FIG. 14) of the bottom flange 413 of the first-axis frame than the inclined portion S413, two brace connection portions BC413 of the bottom flange of the first-axis frame are formed for rotatably connecting braces 8. The brace connection portions BC413 of the bottom flange of the first-axis frame correspond to the positions of the brace connection portions BC412 of the middle flange of the first-axis frame. In addition, at a position corresponding to one end (left side of FIG. 14) of the brace connection rail BR41 of the middle flange of the first axle frame, two brace lock holes PR413 are formed in the lower flange of the first axle frame to lock the brace 8 in the deployed state. Near the brace lock holes PR413 in the lower flange of the first axle frame, a connection plate connection hole PC413 is formed in the lower flange of the first axle frame to connect the connection plate 5. At the other end (right side of FIG. 14) of the lower flange of the first axle frame, a claw opening HO413 is formed in the lower flange of the first axle frame, through which the claw H423 of the lower flange of the second axle frame passes. Near the center axis of the lower flange 413 of the first axle frame, flange fixing member holes WH are formed at a predetermined interval to secure the flange fixing member 45. The flange fixing member holes WH formed near the center axis of the lower flange of the first axle frame correspond to the positions of the flange fixing member holes WH in the middle flange of the first axle frame.

[0054] The second axle frame 42 is composed of an upper flange 421, a middle flange 422, and a lower flange 423 of the second axle frame, as well as multiple flange fixing members 45 that connect and fix the three flanges. The upper flange 421 of the second axle frame is composed of a long, narrow rectangular plate-like member. One end (left side of FIG. 15) of the upper flange of the second axle frame is formed with a claw opening HO421 for the lower flange of the second axle frame, through which the claw H421 of the upper flange of the second axle frame passes. A rail consisting of a through groove extending in the axial direction (longitudinal direction) is formed near the center axis of the upper flange 421 of the second axle frame. The claw H43 of the third axle frame is slidably connected to the rail RH421 of the upper flange of the second axle frame. The other end (right side of FIG. 15) of the upper flange 421 of the second axle frame is formed with an inclined portion S421 of the upper flange of the second axle frame that is inclined toward the lower flange. Two locking recesses RD423 of the second axle frame are formed on one end side (left side in FIG. 15) of the inclined portion S421 of the upper flange of the second axle frame, which connect with the locking protrusions D43 of the third axle frame. The rail RH421 of the upper flange of the second axle frame extends to the inclined portion S421 of the upper flange of the second axle frame, and a claw H421 of the second axle frame is formed on the inclined portion S421 of the upper flange of the second axle frame and near the upper side of the rail RH421 of the upper flange of the second axle frame, which is slidably connected to the rail RH433 of the lower flange of the third axle frame. Two locking protrusions D421 of the second axle frame are formed on the other end of the inclined portion S421 of the upper flange of the second axle frame, which connect with the locking recesses RD433 of the third axle frame. Flange fixing member holes WH for fixing flange fixing members 45 are formed at a predetermined interval near both longitudinal edges of the upper flange 421 of the second axle frame. The positions of the holes WH for the flange fixing member in the upper flange of the second axle frame correspond to the positions of the holes WH for the flange fixing member in the middle flange of the second axle frame.

[0055] The middle flange 422 of the second axle frame is composed of a long, narrow rectangular plate-like member. The middle flange 422 of the second axle frame is formed shorter than the upper flange 421 and the lower flange 423 of the second axle frame. At one end side (left side in Figure 15) of the middle flange 422 of the second axle frame, a brace connection rail BR422 for the middle flange of the second axle frame is formed, which extends in the axial direction (longitudinal direction) and connects the brace 8 rotatably and slidably. At the other end side (right side in Figure 15) of the middle flange 422 of the second axle frame, two brace connection portions BC422 for the middle flange of the second axle frame are formed, which connect the brace 8 rotatably. In addition, flange fixing member holes WH for fixing flange fixing members 45 are formed at a predetermined interval near both longitudinal edges of the middle flange 422 of the second axle frame. The holes WH for flange fixing members in the middle flange of the second axle frame correspond to the holes WH for flange fixing members in the upper flange of the second axle frame and the holes WH for flange fixing members in the lower flange of the second axle frame.

[0056] The bottom flange 423 of the second axle frame is composed of a long, narrow, rectangular plate-like member. A sloped portion S423 of the bottom flange of the second axle frame is formed on one end side (left side in FIG. 15) of the bottom flange 423 of the second axle frame, sloping toward the top flange. Two locking recesses RD423 of the bottom flange of the second axle frame are formed on the one end side (right side in FIG. 15) of the sloped portion S423 of the bottom flange of the second axle frame, which connect with the locking protrusions D41 of the first axle frame. Near the locking recesses RD423 of the bottom flange of the second axle frame, two brace lock holes PR423 of the bottom flange of the second axle frame are formed at positions corresponding to one end (left side in FIG. 15) of the brace connection rail BR422 of the middle flange of the second axle frame, which lock the brace 8 in the deployed state. The inner diameter of the brace lock holes PR423 of the bottom flange of the second axle frame is designed to match the outer diameter of the shaft portion of the pin P1. The same applies to the other brace lock holes. The tip of the shaft of the pin P1 is received in the brace lock hole PR423 of the lower flange of the second axle frame, thereby restricting the sliding of the brace 8. Two brace connection portions BC423 are formed on the other end of the lower flange 423 of the second axle frame, which rotatably connect the brace 8. The brace connection portions BC423 of the lower flange of the second axle frame correspond to the positions of the brace connection portions BC422 of the middle flange of the second axle frame. A claw opening HO423 is formed on the lower flange of the second axle frame at the other end (right side of Figure 15) of the lower flange of the second axle frame, through which the claw H43 of the lower flange of the third axle frame passes. A rail consisting of a through groove extending in the axial direction (longitudinal direction) is formed near the center axis of the lower flange 423 of the second axle frame. The claw H41 of the first axle frame is slidably connected to the rail RH423 of the lower flange of the second axle frame. Near the rail RH423 of the lower flange of the second axle frame, there are formed tabs H423 of the lower flange of the second axle frame that are slidably connected to the rail RH41 of the upper flange of the first axle frame. Near both longitudinal edges of the lower flange 423 of the second axle frame, there are formed flange fixing member holes WH at a predetermined interval to fix the flange fixing members 45.The positions of the holes WH for the flange fixing member in the lower flange of the second axle frame correspond to the positions of the holes WH for the flange fixing member in the middle flange of the second axle frame.

[0057] The third axle frame 43 is composed of an upper flange 431 of the third axle frame, a middle flange 432 of the third axle frame, a lower flange 433 of the third axle frame, and multiple flange fixing members 45 that connect and fix the three tiered flanges. Instead of the flange fixing members 45, plate-shaped members may be used to connect the three tiered flanges. The upper flange 431 of the third axle frame is composed of a long, narrow rectangular plate-shaped member. One end (left side of Figure 16) of the upper flange of the third axle frame is formed with a claw opening HO431 for the upper flange of the third axle frame through which the claw H421 of the upper flange of the second axle frame passes. Two rows of brace connection rails BR43 for the upper flange of the third axle frame are formed on the upper flange 431 of the third axle frame, extending in the axial direction (longitudinal direction) and connecting the brace 8 to the upper flange in a rotatable and slidable manner. Two brace connection portions BC431 of the upper flange of the third axle frame are formed on the other end side (right side in Figure 16) of the upper flange 431 of the third axle frame, which connect the braces 8 freely in a rotatable manner. An external connection portion EC is formed on the other end of the upper flange 431 of the third axle frame for connecting to other structures, such as the covering structure 1. Flange fixing member holes WH for fixing flange fixing members 45 are formed near the central axis of the upper flange 431 of the third axle frame at a predetermined interval. The flange fixing member holes WH of the upper flange of the third axle frame correspond to the positions of the flange fixing member holes WH of the middle flange of the third axle frame.

[0058] The middle flange 432 of the third axle frame is composed of a long, rectangular plate-like member. The middle flange 432 of the third axle frame is formed shorter than the upper flange 431 and the lower flange 433 of the third axle frame. A connection hole PC432 for the connection plate of the third axle frame, which connects the connection plate 5, is formed near the center of the middle flange 432 of the third axle frame. Two brace lock holes PR432 are formed in the lower flange of the third axle frame at positions corresponding to the other ends of the brace connection rails BR43 of the upper flange of the third axle frame, which lock the braces 8 in the deployed state. In addition, two brace connection portions BC432 are formed in the lower flange of the third axle frame at the other end side (right side in Figure 16) of the lower flange 433 of the third axle frame, which connect the braces 8 rotatably. The brace connection portions BC432 of the lower flange of the third axle frame correspond to the positions of the brace connection portions BC431 of the upper flange of the third axle frame. Flange fixing member holes WH for fixing the flange fixing members 45 are formed at a predetermined interval near both longitudinal edges and near the central axis of the middle flange 432 of the third axle frame. The flange fixing member holes WH of the middle flange of the third axle frame formed near both longitudinal edges correspond to the positions of the flange fixing member holes WH of the upper flange of the third axle frame. Furthermore, the flange fixing member holes WH of the middle flange of the third axle frame formed near the central axis correspond to the position of the flange fixing member holes WH of the lower flange of the third axle frame.

[0059] The bottom flange 433 of the third axle frame is formed of a long, narrow rectangular plate-like member. An inclined portion S433a of the bottom flange of the third axle frame is formed on one end side (left side in FIG. 16) of the bottom flange 433 of the third axle frame, inclined toward the top flange. Two locking recesses RD433 of the bottom flange of the third axle frame are formed on the one end side of the inclined portion S433a of the bottom flange of the third axle frame, which connect with the locking protrusions D421 of the second axle frame. A rail consisting of a through groove extending in the axial direction (longitudinal direction) is formed on the central axis of the bottom flange 433 of the third axle frame. The tab H421 of the second axle frame is slidably connected to the rail RH433 of the bottom flange of the third axle frame. A tab H43 of the bottom flange of the third axle frame is formed on the lower side of one end side of the rail RH433 of the bottom flange of the third axle frame, which is slidably connected to the rail RH421 of the top flange of the second axle frame. An inclined portion S433b that slopes toward the upper flange is formed on the other end side (right side in Figure 16) of the lower flange of the third axle frame. Furthermore, an external connection portion EC is formed on the other end side for connecting to other structures, such as the covering structure 1. In addition, flange fixing member holes WH for fixing flange fixing members 45 are formed at a predetermined interval near both longitudinal edges of the lower flange 433 of the third axle frame. The flange fixing member holes WH of the lower flange of the third axle frame correspond to the positions of the flange fixing member holes WH of the middle flange of the third axle frame.

[0060] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a first pivoting frame of a frame structure according to a third embodiment. FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a second pivoting frame of a frame structure according to the third embodiment. In FIGS. 17 and 18, (a) is a plan view of the upper flange, (b) is a longitudinal elevation view, and (c) is a plan view of the lower flange. One end of the first pivoting frame 6 and the second pivoting frame 7 can be connected to an external structure, such as a covering structure 1, while the other end of the first pivoting frame 6 and the second pivoting frame 7 can be connected to an external structure, such as a covering structure 1. The other ends of the first pivoting frame 6 and the second pivoting frame 7 are connected to a connecting plate 5 connected to a first axis frame 41 and a third axis frame 43, and are supported by a plurality of braces 8.

[0061] The first pivoting frame 6 is composed of an upper flange 61 of the first pivoting frame, a lower flange 62 of the first pivoting frame, and multiple flange fixing members 45 that connect and fix the flanges arranged in two stages. The upper flange 61 of the first pivoting frame is composed of a long, narrow, rectangular plate-like member. One end (left side of FIG. 17 ) is formed with an external connection portion EC for connecting to an external structure such as the covering structure 1. Two brace connection rails BR61a, 61b of the upper flange of the first pivoting frame are formed at a position eccentric to the central axis of the upper flange 61 of the first pivoting frame (upper side of the paper in FIG. 17( a) ). These rails are formed as through grooves extending in the axial direction (longitudinal direction) and connect the brace 8 to the upper flange 61a, 61b in a rotatable and slidable manner. The width of the brace connection rails BR61a, 61b of the upper flange of the first pivoting frame is designed to match the outer diameter of the shaft portion of the pin P1. The same applies to the brace connection rails of the upper flanges of the other pivoting frames. Braces 8, 8 are connected to the axle frame 4 via a branch plate 9, respectively, and are connected to the brace connection rails BR61a, 61b on the upper flange of the first rotating frame. At a position eccentric to the central axis of the upper flange 61 of the first rotating frame (the lower side of the paper in FIG. 17(a)), a brace connection rail BR61c on the upper flange of the first rotating frame is formed as a rail consisting of a through groove that is slightly shorter than the brace connection rail BR61a on the upper flange of the first rotating frame and that rotatably and slidably connects to the brace 8. The brace connection rail BR61c on the upper flange of the first rotating frame is connected to the brace connection rail BR61c on the upper flange of the first rotating frame, and is connected to the brace 8 via a branch plate 9. A brace connection portion BC61 on the upper flange of the first rotating frame that rotatably connects the brace 8 is formed on the same axis as the brace connection rail BR61c on the upper flange of the first rotating frame and on the other end side. A brace 8, which is connected to the second rotating frame 7 via a branch plate 9, is connected to a brace connection part BC61 of the upper flange of the first rotating frame. The other end of the upper flange 61 of the first rotating frame is formed with an inclined part that slopes toward the lower flange, and further has a tapered shape to suppress interference with the axle frame 4 and the second rotating frame 7 in the folded state.Furthermore, a connection portion RC6 of the upper flange of the first rotating frame, which is formed as a through hole, is formed at the other end of the upper flange 61 of the first rotating frame and rotatably connected to a connection plate 5 connected to the first axis frame 41 and the third axis frame 43 by a connection member 10. The connection member 10 is composed of a bolt and a nut. Flange fixing member holes WH for fixing flange fixing members 45 are formed at a predetermined interval near the longitudinal center axis of the upper flange 61 of the first rotating frame. The positions of the flange fixing member holes WH of the upper flange of the first rotating frame correspond to the positions of the flange fixing member holes WH of the lower flange of the first rotating frame.

[0062] The bottom flange 62 of the first pivoting frame is composed of a long, narrow, rectangular plate-like member. One end (the left side of FIG. 17 ) has an inclined portion that slopes toward the top flange, and further has an external connection portion EC for connecting to an external structure, such as the covering structure 1. Two brace connection rails BR62a, 62b of the bottom flange of the first pivoting frame are formed at a position eccentric to the central axis of the top flange 61 of the first pivoting frame (the upper side of the paper in FIG. 16( a) ) as rails extending in the axial direction (longitudinal direction). The brace connection rails BR62a, 62b of the bottom flange of the first pivoting frame correspond to the brace connection rails BR62a, 62b of the top flange of the first pivoting frame, respectively. The brace connection rails BR62a, 62b of the bottom flange of the first pivoting frame are formed as guide rails that protrude toward the top flange from the top surface of the bottom flange of the first pivoting frame. The width of the brace connection rails BR62a, 62b on the bottom flange of the first pivoting frame is designed to match the outer diameter of the shank of the pin P1. The same applies to the brace connection rails on the bottom flanges of the other pivoting frames. Brace lock holes PR62a, PR62b on the bottom flange of the first pivoting frame that lock the brace 8 in the deployed state are respectively formed at the other ends of the brace connection rails BR62a, 62b on the bottom flange of the first pivoting frame. The inner diameter of the brace lock holes PR62a, PR62b on the bottom flange of the first pivoting frame is designed to match the outer diameter of the shank of the pin P1. The same applies to the brace lock holes on the bottom flanges of the other pivoting frames. The tip of the shank of the pin P1 is accommodated in the brace lock holes PR62a, PR62b on the bottom flange of the first pivoting frame, thereby restricting the sliding of the brace 8. Braces 8, 8 connected to the axis frame 4 via a branch plate 9 are connected to the brace connection rails BR62a, 62b on the lower flange of the first pivot frame, respectively.A brace connection rail BR62c of the lower flange of the first pivoting frame is formed at a position eccentric to the central axis of the lower flange 62 of the first pivoting frame (the lower side of the paper in FIG. 16( a) ). The brace connection rail BR62c is a rail consisting of a through groove that is slightly shorter than the brace connection rail BR62a of the lower flange of the first pivoting frame and connects the brace 8 to the lower flange in a rotatable and slidable manner. A brace lock hole PR62c of the lower flange of the first pivoting frame is formed at the other end of the brace connection rail BR62c of the lower flange of the first pivoting frame, which locks the brace 8 in the deployed state. The brace connection rail BR62c of the lower flange of the first pivoting frame is connected to the brace 8, which is connected to the second pivoting frame 7 via a branch plate 9. A brace connection portion BC62 of the lower flange of the first pivoting frame is formed on the same axis as the brace connection rail BR62c of the lower flange of the first pivoting frame and at the other end. The brace connection portion BC62 connects the brace 8 to the lower flange of the first pivoting frame. A brace 8, which is connected to the second pivoting frame 7 via a branch plate 9, is connected to a brace connection portion BC62 of the lower flange of the first pivoting frame. The other end of the lower flange 62 of the first pivoting frame is tapered to prevent interference with the axle frame 4 and the second pivoting frame 7 in the folded state. A connection portion RC6 of the upper flange of the first pivoting frame, which is a through hole, is formed at the other end of the lower flange 62 of the first pivoting frame and rotatably connected to a connection plate 5 connected to the first axle frame 41 or the third axle frame 43 via a connection member 10. Flange fixing member holes WH, which fix the flange fixing members 45, are formed at predetermined intervals near the longitudinal center axis of the lower flange 62 of the first pivoting frame. The positions of the flange fixing member holes WH of the lower flange of the first pivoting frame correspond to the positions of the flange fixing member holes WH of the upper flange of the first pivoting frame.

[0063] The second pivoting frame 7 is composed of an upper flange 71 of the second pivoting frame, a lower flange 72 of the second pivoting frame, and multiple flange fixing members 45 that connect and fix the flanges arranged in two stages. The upper flange 71 of the second pivoting frame is composed of a long, narrow, rectangular plate-like member. One end (left side of FIG. 18) is formed with an external connection portion EC for connecting to an external structure such as the covering structure 1. A brace connection rail BR71a of the upper flange of the second pivoting frame is formed at a position eccentric to the central axis of the upper flange 71 of the second pivoting frame (upper side of the paper in FIG. 18(a)) as a rail consisting of a through groove extending in the axial direction (longitudinal direction). The width of the brace connection rail BR71a of the upper flange of the second pivoting frame is designed to match the outer diameter of the shaft portion of the pin P1. A brace 8, which is connected to the first pivoting frame 6 via a branch plate 9, is connected to the brace connection rail BR71a on the upper flange of the second pivoting frame. At a position eccentric to the central axis of the upper flange 71 of the second pivoting frame (the lower side of the paper in FIG. 18( a)), and shifted toward one end from the brace connection rail BR71a on the upper flange of the second pivoting frame, a brace connection rail BR71c on the upper flange of the second pivoting frame is formed as a rail consisting of a through groove, which rotatably and slidably connects the brace 8. The brace connection rail BR71c on the upper flange of the second pivoting frame is connected to the brace connection rail BR71c on the upper flange of the second pivoting frame, and is connected to the second axis frame 42 via a branch plate 9. A brace connection portion BC71 on the upper flange of the second pivoting frame, which rotatably connects the brace 8, is formed on the same axis as the brace connection rail BR71a on the upper flange of the second pivoting frame and at the other end. A brace 8, which is connected to the first pivoting frame 6 via a branch plate 9, is connected to a brace connection part BC71 on the upper flange of the second pivoting frame. The other end of the upper flange 71 of the second pivoting frame is formed with an inclined part that slopes toward the lower flange, and is tapered to prevent interference with the axle frame 4 and the second pivoting frame 7 in the folded state.Furthermore, a connection portion RC6 of the upper flange of the first pivoting frame consisting of a through hole is formed at the other end of the upper flange 71 of the second pivoting frame, which is rotatably connected to a connection plate 5 connected to the first axis frame 41 and the third axis frame 43 by a connection member 10. Flange fixing member holes WH for fixing flange fixing members 45 are formed at predetermined intervals near the longitudinal center axis of the upper flange 71 of the second pivoting frame. The positions of the flange fixing member holes WH of the upper flange of the second pivoting frame correspond to the positions of the flange fixing member holes WH of the lower flange of the second pivoting frame.

[0064] The bottom flange 72 of the second pivoting frame is composed of a long, narrow, rectangular plate-like member. One end (the left side of FIG. 18 ) has an inclined portion that slopes toward the top flange, and further has an external connection portion EC for connecting to an external structure, such as the covering structure 1. A brace connection rail BR72a of the bottom flange of the second pivoting frame is formed at a position eccentric to the central axis of the top flange 71 of the second pivoting frame (the upper side of the paper in FIG. 17( a) ) as a rail extending in the axial direction (longitudinal direction). The brace connection rail BR72a of the bottom flange of the second pivoting frame corresponds to the brace connection rail BR71a of the top flange of the second pivoting frame. The brace connection rail BR72a of the bottom flange of the second pivoting frame is formed as a guide rail that protrudes toward the top flange from the upper surface of the bottom flange of the second pivoting frame. The width of the brace connection rail BR72a on the bottom flange of the second pivoting frame is designed to match the outer diameter of the shank of the pin P1. A brace lock hole PR72a on the bottom flange of the second pivoting frame is formed at the other end of the brace connection rail BR72a on the bottom flange of the second pivoting frame, which locks the brace 8 in the deployed state. The inner diameter of the brace lock hole PR72a on the bottom flange of the second pivoting frame is designed to match the outer diameter of the shank of the pin P1. The tip of the shank of the pin P1 is accommodated in the brace lock hole PR72a on the bottom flange of the second pivoting frame, thereby restricting the sliding of the brace 8. The brace 8, which is connected to the first pivoting frame 6 via a branch plate 9, is connected to the brace connection rail BR72a on the bottom flange of the second pivoting frame. At a position eccentric to the central axis of the lower flange 72 of the second rotating frame (at the bottom of the page in FIG. 17(a)), a brace connection rail BR72c of the lower flange of the second rotating frame is formed as a rail consisting of a through groove located on one end side of the brace connection rail BR72a of the lower flange of the second rotating frame, and connects the brace 8 in a freely rotatable and slidable manner. At the other end of the brace connection rail BR72c of the lower flange of the second rotating frame, a brace lock hole PR72c of the lower flange of the second rotating frame is formed, which locks the brace 8 in the unfolded state.A brace 8, which is connected to the second axle frame 42 via a branch plate 9, is connected to the brace connection rail BR72c on the lower flange of the second pivoting frame. A brace connection portion BC72 of the lower flange of the second pivoting frame, which rotatably connects the brace 8, is formed on the other end of the second pivoting frame, on the same axis as the brace connection rail BR72c on the lower flange of the second pivoting frame. The brace 8, which is connected to the first pivoting frame 6 via a branch plate 9, is connected to the brace connection portion BC72 on the lower flange of the second pivoting frame. The other end of the lower flange 72 of the second pivoting frame is tapered to suppress interference with the axle frame 4 or the first pivoting frame 6 in the folded state. In addition, a connection portion RC6 of the lower flange of the second pivoting frame, which is a through hole, is formed on the other end of the lower flange 72 of the second pivoting frame and is rotatably connected to a connection plate 5 connected to the first axle frame 41 or the third axle frame 43 via a connection member 10. Flange fixing member holes WH for fixing the flange fixing members 45 are formed at predetermined intervals near the longitudinal center axis of the lower flange 72 of the second pivoting frame. The positions of the flange fixing member holes WH in the lower flange of the second pivoting frame correspond to the positions of the flange fixing member holes WH in the upper flange of the second pivoting frame.

[0065] FIG. 19 shows a side view of an example of a flange fixing member according to the third embodiment. The flange fixing member 445 includes a flange fixing member shaft 45a, a flange fixing member head 45b formed at the base end of the flange fixing member shaft 45a and projecting laterally beyond the flange fixing member shaft 45a, a pair of flange first fixing member fixing portions 45c located midway along the flange fixing member shaft 45a and projecting laterally beyond the flange fixing member shaft 45a, and a pair of second flange fixing member fixing portions 45d located at the tip end of the flange fixing member shaft 45a and projecting laterally beyond the flange fixing member shaft 45a. The pair of flange first fixing member fixing portions 45c and the pair of second flange fixing member fixing portions 45d are detachably attached to the flange fixing member shaft 45a. The flange fixing member 45 fixes the flanges of the first shaft frame 41, the second shaft frame 42, and the third shaft frame 43 to each other and the flanges of the first pivot frame 6 and the second pivot frame to each other. Using the first-shaft frame 41 as an example, the shaft portion 45a of the flange fixing member is inserted into the flange fixing member hole WH, the head portion 45b of the flange fixing member contacts the upper flange 411 of the first-shaft frame, the fixing portions 45c of the pair of first flange fixing members clamp the middle flange 412 of the first-shaft frame, and the fixing portions 45d of the pair of second flange fixing members clamp and fix the lower flange 413 of the first-shaft frame. The length of the shaft portion 45a of the flange fixing member can be changed as needed depending on the spacing between the flanges to be fixed. Furthermore, when fixing two flange levels, as in the case of the first pivot frame 6, the fixing portions 45d of the pair of second flange fixing members can be omitted. Furthermore, when fixing four flange levels, for example, the number of fixing portions of the pair of flange fixing members can be changed as needed depending on the number of flange levels to be fixed. For example, when fixing four flange levels, the number of fixing portions of the pair of flange fixing members can be further changed depending on the number of flange levels to be fixed.

[0066] FIG. 20 shows a side view of an example of a pin according to the third embodiment. The pin P1 is composed of a pin shaft P1a, a pin head P1b formed at the base end of the pin shaft P1a and protruding laterally beyond the pin shaft P1a, and a pin protrusion P1c provided at the tip end of the pin shaft P1a and protruding laterally beyond the pin shaft P1a. The pin protrusion P1c is detachable from the pin shaft P1a. A protrusion for preventing slippage may be detachably provided at the tip of the pin shaft P1a. The pin P1 connects the brace 8 to the first axle frame 41, the second axle frame 42, the third axle frame 43, the first pivot frame 6, and the second pivot frame 7 in a rotatable or slidable and pivotable manner. For example, in an example of a connection that is rotatable without sliding, in the first-axle frame 41, the shank P1a of the pin penetrates and is fixed through the brace connection portion BC412 of the middle flange of the first-axle frame, the brace 8, and the brace connection portion BC413 of the bottom flange of the first-axle frame. In this case, from top to bottom, the positional relationship is as follows: the head P1b of the pin, the brace connection portion BC412 of the middle flange of the first-axle frame, the brace 8, the protrusion P1c of the pin, and the brace connection portion BC413 of the bottom flange of the first-axle frame. Also, in an example of a connection that is slidable and rotatable, in the first-axle frame 41, in the folded state or during unfolding, the shank P1a of the pin penetrates the brace connection rail BR41 of the middle flange of the first-axle frame and the brace 8, and the pin P1 can slide along the brace connection rail BR41 of the middle flange of the first-axle frame with the head P1b of the pin separated from (floating from) the brace connection rail BR41 of the middle flange of the first-axle frame. In the deployed state, the pin shaft P1a passes through the brace connection rail BR41 on the middle flange of the first axle frame, the brace 8, and the brace lock hole PR413 on the bottom flange of the first axle frame, and the tip of the pin P1 is received in the brace lock hole PR413 on the bottom flange of the first axle frame, restricting sliding. In other words, the deployed state is fixed (locked). The shape of the pin P1 is not limited to the above. For example, the pin P1 may be configured to further include a restricting portion that clamps the flange or the brace. By including the restricting portion, the pin P1 can slide more smoothly.Also, for example, a step may be formed in the brace lock hole PR413 on the lower flange of the first axle frame, with the rear side designed to match the outer diameter of the shank P1a of the pin and the front side designed to match the outer diameter of the protrusion P1c of the pin. This allows for more stable locking.

[0067] Regarding another example of a slidable and rotatable connection, when the first pivoting frame 6 is in the folded state or during unfolding, the shank P1a of the pin penetrates the brace connection rail BR61a on the upper flange of the first pivoting frame and the brace 8. The head P1b of the pin is separated from the brace connection rail BR61a on the upper flange of the first pivoting frame (floating state), and is slidable along the brace connection rail BR61a on the upper flange of the first pivoting frame and the brace connection rail BR62a on the lower flange of the first pivoting frame. In the unfolded state, the shank P1a of the pin penetrates the brace connection rail BR61a on the upper flange of the first pivoting frame, the brace 8, and the brace lock hole PR62a on the lower flange of the first pivoting frame, and the tip of the pin P1 is received in the brace lock hole PR62a on the lower flange of the first pivoting frame, restricting sliding. In other words, the unfolded state is fixed (locked).

[0068] 21 shows a plan view of the connecting plate of the axle frame of the frame structure according to the third embodiment. The connecting plate 5 is rectangular, and one side is connected by a fixing member to the connecting plate connecting hole PC413 on the lower flange of the first axle frame and the connecting plate connecting hole PC432 on the lower flange of the third axle frame. The first rotating frame 6 and the second rotating frame 7 are rotatably connected to the side opposite the one side. The side to which the first rotating frame 6 and the second rotating frame 7 are connected is formed as a hypotenuse to prevent interference between the first rotating frame 6 and the second rotating frame 7 in the folded state.

[0069] FIG. 22 shows a plan view of an example of a brace of a frame structure according to the third embodiment. The brace 8 comprises a brace shaft 81, a brace connection portion 82 at one end, and a brace connection portion 83 at the other end. The length of the brace shaft 81 is appropriately designed depending on the connection points so that the first pivoting frame 6, the second pivoting frame 7, and the brace 8 are aligned with the axle frame 4 in the folded state. The brace connection portion 82 at one end is connected to the axle frame 4, the first pivoting frame 6, and the second pivoting frame 7 in a rotatable or slidable and rotatable manner. The brace connection portion 83 at the other end is rotatably connected to the branch plate.

[0070] FIG. 23 shows a plan view of an example of a branch plate of the frame structure according to the third embodiment. The branch plate 9 is rectangular, and the other end connection portions 83 of the braces are connected near the corners. The shape of the branch plate 9 is not limited to the above. It may be a triangle, a pentagon, or another polygon, or a circle. The number of branches is also not limited to four. The number of branches may be two, three, five or more. The number, length, etc. of the braces 8 are designed appropriately depending on the number of branches.

[0071] <Effects of frame structure> In the frame structure 3 according to the third embodiment, the axle frame 4 includes a first axle frame 41, a second axle frame 42 that is slidable relative to the first axle frame 41, and a third axle frame 43 that is slidable relative to the second axle frame 42, and is extendable and contractible in the axial direction. Therefore, in the folded state, the frame structure 3 according to the third embodiment is folded so that the first axle frame 41, the second axle frame 42, and the third axle frame 43 are stacked vertically. Furthermore, the first pivoting frame 6 and the second pivoting frame 7 connected to the axle frame 4 are positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame 4, making the structure very compact in the folded state. Because the axle frame 4 is folded so that it is stacked vertically, it is possible to utilize the space in the direction perpendicular to the axle frame 4 (height direction). As a result, in the folded state, the braces 8, branch plates 9, and pivoting frames (first pivoting frame 6, second pivoting frame 7) connected to the first axle frame 41, second axle frame 42, and third axle frame 43, respectively, are positioned at different heights. As a result, in the folded state, interference between the brace 8, branch plate 9, and rotating frame (first rotating frame 6, second rotating frame 7) is suppressed, allowing for compact folding.

[0072] Furthermore, in the unfolded state, the first pivoting frame 6 and the second pivoting frame 7 are positioned in a direction different from the axial direction of the axle frame 4, thereby providing a larger frame structure 3 than in the folded state. Furthermore, the provision of multiple braces 8 improves rigidity. Furthermore, by providing a branch plate 9 to which one ends of the multiple braces 8 are connected, the multiple braces 8 can be positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame 4 in the folded state, making folding easier. In other words, a frame structure 3 can be provided that has excellent rigidity and a high degree of freedom in terms of its external shape and folded state.

[0073] Furthermore, for example, in the unfolded state, the shank P1a of the pin passes through the brace connection rail BR41 on the middle flange of the first axle frame, the brace 8, and the brace lock hole PR413 on the bottom flange of the first axle frame, and the tip of the pin P1 is received in the brace lock hole PR413 on the bottom flange of the first axle frame, restricting sliding. In other words, the unfolded state is fixed (locked). That is, by providing a locking mechanism including a pin and a lock hole, rigidity in the unfolded state can be improved. That is, a frame structure 3 can be provided that has excellent rigidity and a high degree of freedom in its external shape and folded state.

[0074] <Fourth embodiment> <Shelter configuration> Figure 24 shows a perspective view of an example of a shelter according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 25 shows an expanded view of the upper side of the covering structure according to the fourth embodiment. The shelter SH1 according to the fourth embodiment is constructed by combining the frame structure 3 described above with a covering structure 1b having the same function as the covering structure 1. The covering structure 1b is constructed by connecting the upper side of the covering structure 1b shown in Figure 25 with the lower side of the covering structure 1b (not shown). The frame structure 3 and the covering structure 1b are connected by the external connection part EC of the frame structure 3 to the boundary between the upper and lower sides of the covering structure 1b.

[0075] The covering structure 1b according to the fourth embodiment is formed by bending a flat metal plate 11 to form an internal space. The covering structure 1b is formed by bending a plurality of portions with an appropriate combination of mountain folds and valley folds so that the covering structure 1b can transition from a folded state to an unfolded state without breaking. Mountain folds are bent portions that are bent so that the folds (first bent portion, second bent portion) are outward. Valley folds are bent portions that are bent so that the folds (first bent portion, second bent portion) are hidden inward. The various conditions (thickness, material, elongation performance, etc.) of the metal plate 11 that constitutes the covering structure 1b, the radius of curvature of the first bent portion, and the radius of curvature of the second bent portion can be configured in the same way as the covering structure according to the first embodiment.

[0076] Furthermore, in the covering structure 1b according to the fourth embodiment, a plurality of uneven portions 15 are formed at predetermined intervals so as not to overlap with the mountain folds and valley folds. The various conditions (shape, depth, outer diameter) of the uneven portions 15 are the same as those of the covering structure 1a according to the second embodiment. Note that the dimensions, number, and size of the uneven portions 15 shown in FIG. 25 are merely examples.

[0077] <Shelter's effectiveness> The shelter SH1 according to the fourth embodiment is formed from a single metal plate 11, and therefore has superior strength and airtightness compared to conventional structures in which the bending portions are made of hinge metal fittings or other materials. Furthermore, by using an aluminum alloy for the metal plate 11, setting the thickness of the metal plate 11 to 0.2 mm to 5 mm, and setting the elongation performance of the metal plate 11 to 10% or more, and designing the radius of curvature of the first bending portion 12 to 5 to 50 times the thickness of the flat plate member, and the radius of curvature of the second bending portion 13 to 10 to 100 times the radius of curvature of the first bending portion 12, the bending portion can be unfolded without breaking. Furthermore, by providing multiple uneven portions 15, strength can be further improved. Furthermore, by providing multiple uneven portions 15, the axial rigidity of the cross section of the metal plate 11 can be reduced compared to when the uneven portions 15 are not provided. The reduced axial rigidity makes the surface of the metal plate 11 more susceptible to contraction, resulting in a structure in which snap-through buckling (phenomenon) is more likely to occur. On the other hand, since the bending rigidity of the metal plate 11 can be increased compared to when the uneven portion 15 is not present, so-called Euler buckling becomes less likely to occur. As a result, the metal plate 11 has a structure in which snap-through buckling (phenomenon) is more likely to occur. As a result, the shelter SH1 can be easily deployed. By setting the outer diameter of the uneven portion 15 and the thickness of the metal plate 11 to predetermined values, the metal plate 11 becomes less likely to break, and its strength can be further improved.

[0078] Furthermore, in the shelter SH1 according to the fourth embodiment, in the folded state, the first pivoting frame 6 and the second pivoting frame 7 connected to the axle frame 4 are positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame 4, making it very compact in the folded state. Furthermore, in the unfolded state, the first pivoting frame 6 and the second pivoting frame 7 are positioned in a direction different from the axial direction of the axle frame 4, making it possible to provide a larger frame structure compared to the folded state. Furthermore, the provision of multiple braces 8 improves rigidity. Furthermore, by providing a branch plate 9 to which one ends of the multiple braces 8 are connected, the multiple braces 8 can be positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame 4 in the folded state, making folding easier. In other words, it is possible to provide a frame structure 3 that is excellent in rigidity and has a high degree of freedom in terms of its external shape and folded state.

[0079] Furthermore, because the axle frame 4 is extendable and retractable, it is possible to provide a frame structure 3 that is very compact in the folded state, but larger in the unfolded state than in the folded state. In the unfolded state, the shank P1a of the pin passes through the brace connection rail BR41 on the middle flange of the first axle frame, the brace 8, and the brace lock hole PR413 on the bottom flange of the first axle frame, and the tip of the pin P1 is received in the brace lock hole PR413 on the bottom flange of the first axle frame, restricting sliding (not shown). In other words, the unfolded state is fixed (locked). In other words, by providing a locking mechanism including a pin and lock hole, rigidity in the unfolded state can be improved. In other words, it is possible to provide a shelter SH1 that has excellent rigidity and a high degree of freedom in its external shape and folded state.

[0080] The shelter SH1 according to the fourth embodiment can be used as a base camp, living space, or greenhouse in outer space. The shelter SH1 according to the fourth embodiment can also be used on Earth as a base camp, living space, greenhouse, or plant factory.

[0081] Fifth Embodiment <Shelter's effectiveness> FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of an example of a shelter according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 27 shows a plan view of a frame structure according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 28 shows an expanded view of the covering structure (upper side) according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 29 shows an expanded view of the covering structure (lower side) according to the fifth embodiment. The shelter SH2 according to the fifth embodiment has the same basic structure as the shelter SH1 according to the fourth embodiment, but is designed to be even larger than the shelter SH1 according to the fourth embodiment. The shelter SH2 according to the fifth embodiment is constructed by combining a frame structure 3a having the same function as the frame and a covering structure 1c having the same function as the covering structure 1. The frame structure 3a and the covering structure 1c are connected by the external connection part EC of the frame structure 3a to the boundary between the upper and lower sides of the covering structure 1c.

[0082] The covering structure 1c according to the fifth embodiment is formed by bending a flat metal plate 11 to form an internal space. The covering structure 1c is formed by bending a plurality of portions with an appropriate combination of mountain folds and valley folds so that the covering structure 1c can transition from a folded state to an unfolded state without breaking. Mountain folds are bent portions that are bent so that the folds (first bent portion, second bent portion) are outward. Valley folds are bent portions that are bent so that the folds (first bent portion, second bent portion) are hidden inward. The various conditions (thickness, material, elongation performance, etc.) of the metal plate 11 constituting the covering structure 1b, the radius of curvature of the first bent portion, and the radius of curvature of the second bent portion can be configured in the same manner as the covering structure according to the first embodiment.

[0083] Furthermore, in the covering structure 1c according to the fifth embodiment, a plurality of uneven portions 15 are formed at predetermined intervals so as not to overlap with the mountain folds and valley folds. The various conditions (shape, depth, outer diameter) of the uneven portions 15 are the same as those of the covering structure 1a according to the second embodiment. Note that the dimensions, number, and size of the uneven portions 15 shown in Figures 28 and 29 are merely examples.

[0084] In addition, the frame structure 3a of the fifth embodiment is composed of two extendable and retractable axle frames 4, two partially bent extendable and retractable axle frames 4a, a plurality of first pivoting frames 6, second pivoting frames 7, braces 8, and branch plates 9.

[0085] <Shelter's effectiveness> The shelter SH2 according to the fifth embodiment is formed from a single metal plate 11, and therefore has superior strength and airtightness compared to conventional structures in which the bending portions are made of hinge metal fittings or other materials. Furthermore, by using an aluminum alloy for the metal plate 11, setting the thickness of the metal plate 11 to 0.2 mm to 5 mm, and setting the elongation performance of the metal plate 11 to 10% or more, and designing the radius of curvature of the first bending portion 12 to 5 to 50 times the thickness of the flat plate member, and the radius of curvature of the second bending portion 13 to 10 to 100 times the radius of curvature of the first bending portion 12, the bending portion can be unfolded without breaking. Furthermore, by providing multiple uneven portions 15, strength can be further improved. Furthermore, by providing multiple uneven portions 15, the axial rigidity of the cross section of the metal plate 11 can be reduced compared to a case in which the uneven portions 15 are not provided. The reduced axial rigidity makes the surface of the metal plate 11 more susceptible to contraction, making the metal plate 11 more susceptible to snap-through buckling (phenomenon). On the other hand, since the bending rigidity of the metal plate 11 can be increased compared to when the uneven portion 15 is not present, so-called Euler buckling becomes less likely to occur. As a result, the metal plate 11 has a structure in which snap-through buckling (phenomenon) is more likely to occur. As a result, the shelter SH2 can be easily deployed. By setting the outer diameter of the uneven portion 15 and the thickness of the metal plate 11 to predetermined values, the metal plate 11 becomes less likely to break, and its strength can be further improved.

[0086] Furthermore, in the shelter SH2 according to the fifth embodiment, in the folded state, the first pivoting frame 6 and the second pivoting frame 7 connected to the axle frame 4 are positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame 4 and the axle frame 4a, making it very compact in the folded state. Furthermore, in the unfolded state, the first pivoting frame 6 and the second pivoting frame 7 are positioned in a direction different from the axial direction of the axle frame 4 and the axle frame 4a, making it possible to provide a larger frame structure compared to the folded state. Furthermore, the provision of multiple braces 8 improves rigidity. Furthermore, the provision of branch plates 9 to which one ends of the multiple braces 8 are connected allows the multiple braces 8 to be positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame 4 and the axle frame 4a in the folded state, making folding easier. In other words, it is possible to provide a frame structure 3 that is excellent in rigidity and has a high degree of freedom in terms of its external shape and folded state.

[0087] Furthermore, because the axle frames 4 and 4a are extendable and retractable, the shelter SH2 is very compact in the folded state, but is larger in the unfolded state than in the folded state. In the unfolded state, the pin shaft P1a passes through the brace connection rail BR41 on the middle flange of the first axle frame, the brace 8, and the brace lock hole PR413 on the bottom flange of the first axle frame, and the tip of the pin P1 is received in the brace lock hole PR413 on the bottom flange of the first axle frame, restricting sliding (not shown). In other words, the unfolded state is fixed (locked). In other words, by providing a locking mechanism including a pin and lock hole, rigidity in the unfolded state can be improved. In other words, a shelter SH2 can be provided that has excellent rigidity and a high degree of freedom in its external shape and folded state.

[0088] The shelter SH2 according to the fifth embodiment can be used as a base camp, living space, or greenhouse in outer space. The shelter SH2 according to the fifth embodiment can also be used on Earth as a base camp, living space, greenhouse, or plant factory.

[0089] Sixth Embodiment <Container device (covering structure)> Fig. 30 shows perspective views of a container apparatus according to a sixth embodiment in a folded state and an unfolded state. Fig. 31 shows a top view of a container apparatus according to a sixth embodiment. Fig. 32 shows a front view of a container apparatus according to a sixth embodiment. Fig. 33 shows a side view of a container apparatus according to a sixth embodiment.

[0090] The container device 1d according to the sixth embodiment is formed by bending a flat metal plate 11 to form an internal space. The container device 1d is formed by folding in multiple locations an appropriate combination of mountain folds (widely spaced dotted lines) and valley folds (narrowly spaced dotted lines) so that it can transition from a folded state to an unfolded state without breaking. Mountain folds are bent so that the folds (first bent portion, second bent portion) are outward. Valley folds are bent so that the folds (first bent portion, second bent portion) are hidden inward. The various conditions (thickness, material, elongation performance, etc.) of the metal plate 11 constituting the container device 1d, the radius of curvature of the first bent portion, and the radius of curvature of the second bent portion can be configured in the same way as the covering structure according to the first embodiment.

[0091] Furthermore, in the container device 1d according to the sixth embodiment, a plurality of uneven portions 15 are formed at predetermined intervals so as not to overlap with the mountain folds and valley folds. The various conditions (shape, depth, outer diameter) of the uneven portions 15 are the same as those of the covering structure 1a according to the second embodiment. Note that the number and size of the uneven portions 15 shown in Figures 30 to 33 are merely examples.

[0092] <Effects of the container device> The container device 1d according to the sixth embodiment is formed from a single metal plate 11, and therefore has superior strength and airtightness compared to conventional structures in which the bending portions are made of hinge metal fittings or other materials. Furthermore, the metal plate 11 is made of an aluminum alloy, the thickness of the metal plate 11 is 0.2 mm to 5 mm, the elongation performance of the metal plate 11 is 10% or more, the radius of curvature of the first bending portion 12 is 5 to 50 times the thickness of the flat plate member, and the radius of curvature of the second bending portion 13 is 10 to 100 times the radius of curvature of the first bending portion 12, thereby enabling the bending portion to unfold without breaking. Furthermore, the provision of multiple concave-convex portions 15 further improves strength. Furthermore, the provision of multiple concave-convex portions 15 reduces the axial rigidity of the cross section of the metal plate 11 compared to a case in which the concave-convex portions 15 are absent. The reduced axial rigidity makes the surface of the metal plate 11 more susceptible to contraction, making the metal plate 11 more susceptible to snap-through buckling (phenomenon). On the other hand, since the bending rigidity of the metal plate 11 can be increased compared to when the uneven portion 15 is not present, so-called Euler buckling is less likely to occur. As a result, the metal plate 11 has a structure that makes snap-through buckling (phenomenon) more likely to occur. As a result, the container device 1d can be easily deployed. By setting the outer diameter of the uneven portion 15 and the thickness of the metal plate 11 to predetermined values, the metal plate 11 is less likely to break, and its strength can be further improved.

[0093] The container apparatus 1d according to the sixth embodiment can be used as a container apparatus for cultivating plants in space or on the ground, a transport container apparatus, a storage container apparatus, or the like.

[0094] <Test Example 1> In Test Example 1, a test was conducted to form a primary bent portion and a secondary bent portion using an aluminum alloy (see FIG. 2, etc.). As a result, it was confirmed that the bent portion could be unfolded without breaking by setting the thickness of the aluminum alloy to 0.2 to 5 mm, the elongation performance of the aluminum alloy to 10% or more, the radius of curvature of the first bent portion to 5 to 50 times the thickness of the aluminum alloy, and the radius of curvature of the second bent portion to 10 to 100 times the radius of curvature of the first bent portion. FIG. 34 shows an example of a covering structure according to Test Example 1. It was actually confirmed that the bent portion could be unfolded without breaking.

[0095] <Test Example 2> In Test Example 2, a test was conducted to form concave and convex portions using an aluminum alloy (see FIG. 5, etc.). As a result, it was confirmed that the strength of the coated structure could be further improved, and a structure in which snap-through buckling (phenomenon) would occur easily could be manufactured by using an aluminum alloy plate with a thickness of 0.2 to 5 mm, an elongation performance of the aluminum alloy of 10% or more, an outer diameter of 150 to 200 times the thickness of the metal plate, a depth of 10 to 20 times the thickness of the metal plate, and an offset distance of 2 to 5 times the thickness of the metal plate, based on an imaginary reference line passing through the center of the gap between the convex portion mold and the concave portion mold. It was confirmed that the strength of the coated structure could be further improved, and a structure in which snap-through buckling (phenomenon) would occur easily could be manufactured, and a coated structure that could be easily deployed could be manufactured. FIG. 35 shows an example of a coated structure according to Test Example 2. It was confirmed that the strength of the coated structure could be further improved, and a structure in which snap-through buckling (phenomenon) would occur easily could be manufactured.

[0096] Seventh Embodiment FIG. 36 shows an example of a concave-convex portion of a covering structure according to the seventh embodiment. The concave-convex portion of the covering structure according to the seventh embodiment is designed based on the parameters shown in Equations (1) and (2) and FIG. 37. FIG. 37 is a diagram illustrating the parameters and equations of the concave-convex portion according to the seventh embodiment. The concave-convex portion 15 formed in the covering structure 1 according to the seventh embodiment includes a central portion 151 and five elongated portions 152 extending radially from the central portion 151. The central portion 151 and one end 152a of each elongated portion 152 are connected to each other. The other end 152b is formed in a circular shape. The elongated portions 152 are formed so that their width is greatest near the center in the axial direction (the radial extension direction) and gradually narrows toward the one end 152a and the other end 152b. The concave-convex portion 15 can have an outer diameter 150 to 200 times the thickness of the metal plate 11 and a depth 10 to 20 times the thickness of the metal plate 11. The outer diameter is the diameter of a circle passing through the other end 152b of the elongated portion 152 of the concave-convex portion 15. The depth is the distance from the surface of the metal plate 11 to the bottom surface of the concave or convex portion.

[0097]

number

[0098] The concave-convex portion 15 shown in FIG. 37 can be expressed in polar coordinates, that is, by a pair (r, θ) (formula (2)) of a distance r from the origin O (formula (1)) and a deflection angle θ from the initial line x. In formulas (1) and (2), r is the distance of the concave-convex portion 15 from the origin O. R1 is the length of the elongated portion 152 of the concave-convex portion 15 (the length from the origin O to the tip of the elongated portion 152) and can be set to 80 to 200 times the plate thickness. p is a constant for specifying the shape of the concave-convex portion 15 and can be set to 0.56 to 0.68. t is a parameter and takes a value from 0 to 2π. θ is the deflection angle from the initial line x. n is a constant for specifying the shape of the concave-convex portion 15 and takes a value from 4.0 to 6.0.

[0099] The covered structure according to the seventh embodiment can be manufactured by the method for manufacturing a covered structure according to the second embodiment. The manufacturing flow of the covered structure according to the seventh embodiment is basically the same as the manufacturing method of the covered structure according to the second embodiment, and as shown in Fig. 7, includes an uneven portion forming step (S10) for forming uneven portion 15, a first bent portion forming step (S01) for forming first bent portion 12 with a predetermined radius of curvature, and a second bent portion forming step (S02) for, after forming first bent portion 12, further bending first bent portion 12 in a direction different from that of the first bent portion with a larger radius of curvature than that of the first bent portion to form a second bent portion.

[0100] In the concave-convex portion forming step (S10), the metal plate 11 is sandwiched and pressed between a mold for concave portions 17 and a mold for convex portions 18, thereby forming the concave-convex portion 15. Here, FIG. 38 shows a plan view of a mold for concave portions according to the seventh embodiment. Also, FIG. 39 shows a plan view of a mold for convex portions according to the seventh embodiment. The mold for concave portions 17 shown in FIG. 38 is made of wood, and has a petal-shaped concave portion formed in the center. The mold for concave portions 17 is square, and through holes through which fixing members (screws, etc.) pass are formed in the four corners. Also, the mold for convex portions 18 shown in FIG. 39 is made of wood, and has a petal-shaped convex portion formed in the center. The mold for convex portions 18 is square, and through holes through which fixing members (screws, etc.) pass are formed in the four corners. In the seventh embodiment, the outer diameter of the petal shape forming the concave portions is larger than the outer diameter of the petal shape forming the convex portions. The outer diameter of the petal shapes forming the recesses and the outer diameter of the petal shapes forming the protrusions can be designed to be 150 to 200 times the thickness of the metal plate 11, and the depth can be designed to be 10 to 20 times the thickness of the metal plate 11. The difference between the outer diameter of the petal shapes forming the recesses and the outer diameter of the petal shapes forming the protrusions, in other words, the distance between the wall surface of the mold for recesses and the wall surface of the mold for protrusions, corresponds to the offset distance of the present invention. The offset distance is the distance between two dotted lines extending vertically in FIG. 10. The offset distance is preferably set based on an imaginary reference line (shown by a dashed line in FIG. 10) passing through the center of the gap between the mold for protrusions and the mold for recesses, and the distance from the imaginary reference line is preferably 2 to 5 times the plate thickness. The plate thickness can be 0.2 mm to 5 mm. The mold for recesses 17 and the mold for protrusions 18 may be made of resin (e.g., plastic), metal, etc. instead of wood. After the uneven portion forming process (S10) is completed, the first bent portion forming process (S01) is performed, and after the first bent portion forming process is completed, the second bent portion forming process (S02) is performed, thereby producing the covering structure 1 according to the second embodiment.

[0101] The covering structure 1 according to the seventh embodiment has a plurality of concave-convex portions 15 designed based on the formulas (1) and (2) and parameters, thereby further improving its strength. Furthermore, by setting the outer diameter of the concave-convex portions 15 and the thickness of the metal plate 11 as described above, the metal plate 11 is less likely to break, thereby further improving its strength. Furthermore, by providing a plurality of concave-convex portions 15, the axial rigidity of the cross section of the metal plate 11 can be reduced compared to when the concave-convex portions 15 are not present. The reduced axial rigidity makes the surface of the metal plate 11 more likely to shrink, resulting in a structure in which snap-through buckling (phenomenon) is more likely to occur in the metal plate 11. On the other hand, since the bending rigidity of the metal plate 11 can be increased compared to when the concave-convex portions 15 are not present, so-called Euler buckling is less likely to occur. As a result, the metal plate 11 is structured so that snap-through buckling (phenomenon) is more likely to occur in the metal plate 11. As a result, the covering structure 1 can be easily deployed.

[0102] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the covering structure, frame structure, etc. according to the present invention can be combined as appropriate within the scope of the technical concept. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 1, 1a, 1b, 1c... Covering structure 3, 3a... Frame structure 4-axis frame 5. Connecting plate 6. First rotating frame 7. Second rotating frame 8. Brace 9. Branch plate

Claims

1. A deployable frame structure having an unfolded state and a folded state, Axle frame and a rotating frame that is rotatably connected to a connection portion provided on the axle frame, that is positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame in the folded state, and that is positioned in a direction different from the axial direction of the axle frame in the unfolded state, the rotating frame having a first rotating frame and a second rotating frame connected to the connection portion of the axle frame; a plurality of braces supporting the first pivot frame and the second pivot frame; a branch plate to which one ends of the plurality of braces are connected, the branch plate rotatably connecting the plurality of braces so that in a folded state the plurality of braces are positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame, and in an unfolded state the plurality of braces are positioned in a direction different from the axial direction of the axle frame; A frame structure comprising:

2. The frame structure described in claim 1, wherein the axle frame is axially extendable and retractable, and has a first axle frame, a second axle frame that is slidable relative to the first axle frame, and a fixing portion that fits and fixes the first axle frame and the second axle frame in an unfolded state.

3. A shelter that forms a space inside, a deployable frame structure having an unfolded state and a folded state; a covering structure that is freely deployable in conjunction with the frame structure, is formed by bending a flat plate member, and forms a space inside; The frame structure is Axle frame and a rotating frame that is rotatably connected to a connection portion provided on the axle frame, that is positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame in the folded state, and that is positioned in a direction different from the axial direction of the axle frame in the unfolded state, the rotating frame having a first rotating frame and a second rotating frame connected to the connection portion of the axle frame; a plurality of braces supporting the first pivot frame and the second pivot frame; a branch plate to which one ends of the plurality of braces are connected, the branch plate rotatably connecting the plurality of braces so that in the folded state the plurality of braces are positioned along the axial direction of the axle frame, and in the unfolded state the plurality of braces are positioned in a direction different from the axial direction of the axle frame; The covering structure is a first bent portion provided on the flat plate member and bent at a predetermined radius of curvature; A shelter having a second bent portion provided within the first bent portion and bent in a different direction from the first bent portion with a larger radius of curvature than the first bent portion.

Citation Information

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