Open platform for moving structures

Abstract

A towable, self-powered open platform for transporting and maneuvering structures. The platform includes a frame for accepting the building structure thereupon, a plurality of wheels retractably mounted to the frame, a coupling mechanism for attachment to a tow vehicle, a plurality of moving devices retractably mounted to the frame and formed by piston driven scissor actuators including tracks for maneuvering at relatively low speeds, and a control housing including a power source for enabling vertical wheel movement and both vertical and horizontal movement of the moving devices.

Description

OPEN PLATFORM FOR MOVING STRUCTURESCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority on U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 540,698 filed on September 27, 2023, entitled “OPEN PLATFORM FOR MOVING A MANUFACTURED BUILDING”, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The invention relates to self-powered platforms for moving structures. More particularly, the invention relates to towable self-powered platforms for transporting and maneuvering modular and manufactured buildings.BACKGROUND OF THE ART

[0003] Traditionally, buildings were built entirely or largely on-site, i.e., on the site which the building was intended to occupy upon its completion. Such buildings may be referred to as “stick-built” in that traditionally they were built using lumber having been transported to the building site. On-site construction is however subject to space limitations for all peripheral construction equipment along with the vagaries of weather.

[0004] In contrast to “stick-built” structures, there are structures that are largely built in a factory (or similar manufacturing facility) remote from the site which the building is intended to occupy upon its completion. Typically, such structures are modular in that several different modules are separately manufactured at the factory, the various building modules are transported to the site (e.g., via truck) and are put into place (e.g., side-by-side, end-to-end, etc.) by appropriate machinery (e.g., a crane). These structures are known as modular buildings. While it is common for modular buildings to be made of several building modules, no particular number is required. Indeed, modular buildings consisting of a single module are known as well. Further, while it is common for modular buildings to serve as dwellings, no such particular use is required. Typically, such structures are placed on a permanent foundation, e.g., a poured concrete foundation. Modular buildings are not intended to be moved from place-to-place once put into place on a site.

[0005] Modular buildings to be used as dwellings (sometimes called “modular homes”) are different than what is known as “mobile homes”. A mobile home is a manufactured building that is a prefabricated, factory-built structure that is permanently attached to a chassis or frame before being transported to a site either by being towed (e.g., on its own wheels) or trucked (e.g., placed upon the trailer of a tractor trailer). Manufactured buildings such as mobile homes, although commonly left for extended periods of time in one place, can be moved from place to place, if required or desired. While manufactured homes are not commonly placed on a permanent foundation, they are commonly placed on concrete blocks on site (concrete blocks have many different names across the English-speaking world, e.g., cement blocks, breeze blocks, cinder blocks, construction blocks, Besser blocks, hollow blocks, concrete masonry units, etc.).

[0006] Both modular buildings and manufactured buildings have installation conditions and / or procedures that could be ameliorated.

[0007] With respect to modular buildings, for example, their installation on commonly used poured concrete foundations may require (relatively) costly excavation and leveling. Further, it may take a substantial period of time (e.g., from three to four weeks) for the concrete to dry, meaning that a month (or more) may typically be required from beginning to end of the complete modular building installation process. Finally, in climates where the ground freezes in wintertime (e.g., the northern United States and most of Canada), it is difficult or impossible to pour concrete (and thus start the installation process of a modular building) in winter.

[0008] Issues with respect to manufactured buildings are different, but exist. For example, many mobile homes have been installed in areas that are prone to flooding. Typically, conventional mobile homes were not attached or were not sufficiently anchored to the ground. When floods occurred, the mobile homes suffered damage by being moved off their concrete blocks by the flood waters and / or by flood waters entering the mobile home. Climate change may increase the likelihood of floods occurring in some areas and may make flooding occur in areas where it has not traditionally occurred.

[0009] One solution that has been adopted in the past is to install structures on piles (e.g. driven piles, pin piles, helical piles and the like) that have been installed into the ground.Installing piles into the ground is much faster than making a poured concrete foundation, as it may be done in a day or two depending on the number of piles to be installed. Further, piles may be installed in wintertime as they may be driven into frozen ground, an no curing process is required. Also, piles can be installed into the ground so as to leave a certain length exposed above the ground, meaning any structure installed on the piles can be at a certain distance above the ground. This distance may vary from pile to pile due to variations in grade at the installation site. Finally, structures installed on piles may be securely affixed to the piles rather than simply resting on them.

[0010] One inconvenience of installing structures on piles, in either modular or manufactured buildings, is actually maneuvering the structures onto the piles, as traditional means of transporting these structures to the installation site were not designed for this purpose. Likewise, traditional transport means (e.g., atop a typically truck trailer) may have worked well enough in some instances to enable installation of some structures on prior conventional concrete, this was not optimal. There have also been attempts at designing devices for moving around such structures at their on-site location, but again they were only designed for concrete, and not for installation on piles.

[0011] There is therefore a need for an improved device for moving such structures, referred generally to as “modular buildings” and “manufactured buildings” for the purpose of the description.SUMMARY

[0012] The present disclosure provides a towable, self-powered open platform for transporting and maneuvering modular and manufactured buildings. The platform includes a frame for accepting the building structure thereupon, a plurality of wheels retractably mounted to the frame, a coupling mechanism for attachment to a tow vehicle, a plurality of moving devices retractably mounted to the frame and formed by piston driven scissor actuators including tracks for maneuvering at relatively low speeds, and a control housing including a power source for enabling vertical wheel movement and both vertical and horizontal movement of the moving devices.

[0013] According to the disclosure, there is also provided an open platform for transporting and maneuvering a structure, the open platform comprising: a frame foraccepting the building structure thereupon, the frame having a width and a length; a plurality of wheels retractably mounted to the frame; a coupling mechanism attached to the frame at a front end of the frame, the coupling mechanism configured for attachment to a tow vehicle; a plurality of moving devices retractably mounted to the frame, each of the plurality of moving devices including tracks; a control housing including a power source for enabling vertical movement of the plurality of wheels, vertical movement of the plurality of moving devices, and substantially horizontal movement of the tracks.

[0014] Further according to the disclosure, the frame includes two elongated sections parallel and a transverse telescoping widening mechanism formed between the two parallel sections.

[0015] Further according to the disclosure, the plurality of moving devices are located at opposite ends of each one of the two parallel frame sections.

[0016] Further according to the disclosure, the each one of the two parallel frame sections are adjustable in a telescoping manner to adjust the length of the frame.

[0017] Further according to the disclosure, the transverse telescoping widening mechanism is adjustable in a telescoping maimer to adjust the width of the frame.

[0018] Further according to the disclosure, the transverse telescoping widening mechanism includes at least two telescopic members attached at first ends thereof to the coupling mechanism and attached at second ends thereof to corresponding front ends of the two parallel frame sections.

[0019] Further according to the disclosure, the transverse telescoping widening mechanism includes a transverse extender to which the coupling mechanism is removably attached, a first lateral frame element attached to one of the two parallel frame sections, and a second lateral frame element attached to another of the two parallel frame sections, wherein the transverse extender is actuatable to extend the first lateral frame element and the second lateral frame element in opposite directions.

[0020] Further according to the disclosure, the control housing includes hydraulics, the two parallel frame sections each include an extender section, and the extender sections andtransverse extender include a plurality of hydraulic actuators controlled by a user via the control housing.

[0021] Further according to the disclosure, the plurality of wheels are movable between a first wheel position engaging a ground surface and a second wheel position retracted adjacent to the frame.

[0022] Further according to the disclosure, the plurality of wheels are dampened relative to the frame by respective air suspension elements.

[0023] Further according to the disclosure, the wheels are engaging the ground surface, the open platform is capable of moving at relatively high speed.

[0024] Further according to the disclosure, when only the tracks are engaging the ground surface, the open platform is movable only at relatively low speed.

[0025] Further according to the disclosure, each of the plurality of moving devices are pivotably mounted to the frame to provide rotation in a substantially horizontal plane.

[0026] Further according to the disclosure, each of the plurality of moving devices is a piston driven scissor actuator.

[0027] Further according to the disclosure, each of the plurality of moving devices and each of the plurality of wheels are located at opposite sides of the frame.

[0028] Further according to the disclosure, each of the plurality of moving devices and each of the plurality of wheels are located at an outer periphery of the frame.

[0029] Further according to the disclosure, the structure is a manufactured building.

[0030] Further according to the disclosure, each of the plurality of moving devices and each of the plurality of wheels are located at an inner periphery of the frame.

[0031] Further according to the disclosure, the frame further includes a plurality of winged brackets mounted on an outer periphery of the frame.

[0032] Further according to the disclosure, the structure is a modular building.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] Having thus generally described the nature of the invention, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, showing by way of illustration example embodiments thereof and in which:

[0034] Figure 1 is a front right perspective view of a self-powered open platform for moving a manufactured building, in accordance with one embodiment;

[0035] Figure 2a is a top view of a self-powered open platform for moving a modular building, in accordance with another embodiment, in which longitudinal beam members are shown in a narrowed position;

[0036] Figure 2b is a top view of the self-powered open platform shown in Figure 2a, in which the longitudinal beam members are shown in a widened position;

[0037] Figure 3a is a schematic representation of a front view of a moving device in accordance with one embodiment, with the scissor assembly in a retracted position and the undercarriage in a fully horizontal position;

[0038] Figure 3b is a schematic representation of the moving device shown in Figure 3a, with the scissor assembly in an extended position and the undercarriage in a fully horizontal position;

[0039] Figure 3c is a schematic representation of the moving device shown in Figure 3a, with the scissor assembly in a partially extended position and the undercarriage in a sidewardly leveled position;

[0040] Figure 3d is a schematic representation of a side view of a moving device in accordance with one embodiment, with the scissor assembly in a retracted position and the undercarriage in a fully horizontal position;

[0041] Figure 3e is a schematic representation of the moving device shown in Figure 3d, with the scissor assembly in an extended position and the undercarriage in a fully horizontal position;

[0042] Figure 3f is a schematic representation of the moving device shown in Figure 3d, with the scissor assembly in a partially extended position and the undercarriage in a rearwardly leveled position;

[0043] Figure 4 is a schematic representation of a front view of a platform and a modular building supported thereon in accordance with one embodiment, with the moving devices in a fully retracted position and the platform resting on its wheels for towing at a relatively high speed;

[0044] Figure 5 is a schematic representation of the platform and manufactured home shown in Figure 4, with the moving devices in an extended position and the wheels raised above the ground for the frame of the modular building to clear the top of an array of helical piles;

[0045] Figure 6 is a schematic representation of the platform and modular building shown in Figure 5, with the moving devices in a partially extended position, the wheels raised above the ground, and the frame of the modular building resting on the top of the array of helical piles;

[0046] Figure 7 is a schematic representation of the platform and modular building shown in Figure 5, with the moving devices in a retracted position, the wheels resting on the ground, and the frame of the modular building resting on the top of the array of helical piles, with the longitudinal beams in the widened position;

[0047] Figure 8 is a schematic representation of the platform and modular building shown in Figure 7, with the moving devices in a retracted position, the wheels resting on the ground, and the frame of the modular building resting on the top of the array of helical piles, but with the longitudinal beams in the narrowed position;

[0048] Figure 9 is a schematic representation of a side view of a platform and a modular building supported thereon in accordance with one embodiment, with the moving devices in a fully retracted position and the platform resting on its wheels for towing at a relatively high speed;

[0049] Figure 10 is a schematic representation of the platform and modular building shown in Figure 9, with the moving devices in partially and fully extended positions and thewheels raised above the ground for the frame of the manufactured home to clear the top of an array of helical piles, and with the undercarriage in a rearwardly leveled position;

[0050] Figure 11 is a schematic representation of the platform and modular building shown in Figure 9, with the moving devices in a partially extended position, the wheels raised above the ground, and the frame of the manufactured home resting on the top of the array of helical piles, and with the undercarriage in a rearwardly leveled position;

[0051] Figure 12 is a schematic representation of the platform and modular building shown in Figure 9, with the moving devices in a retracted position, the wheels resting on the ground, and the frame of the modular building resting on the top of the array of helical piles, and the platform moving from the underneath of the modular building;

[0052] Figure 13 is a schematic representation of a front view of a platform and a modular building supported thereon in accordance with one embodiment, with the moving devices in partially extending positions and the wheels being raised above the ground, and the undercarriage of the moving devices being sidewardly leveled;

[0053] Figure 14 is a schematic representation of a front view of a platform and a modular building supported thereon in accordance with an alternate embodiment, with the moving devices in a fully retracted position and the platform resting on its wheels fortowing at a relatively high speed;

[0054] Figure 15 is a schematic representation of the platform and a modular building shown in Figure 14 now on a sloped surface, with the moving devices in partially extending positions and the wheels being raised above the ground, and the undercarriage of the moving devices being sidewardly leveled;

[0055] Figure 16 is a schematic representation of a side view of the platform and modular building shown in Figure 14;

[0056] Figure 17a is a top view of a self-powered open platform for moving a modular building, in accordance with an alternate embodiment, in which lateral extensions are shown in a narrowed position;

[0057] Figure 17b is atop view of the self-powered open platform shown in Figure 17a, in which the lateral extensions are shown in a widened position;

[0058] Figure 18a is a top view of a self-powered open platform for moving a modular building, in accordance with an alternate embodiment, in which lateral extensions are shown in a narrowed position;

[0059] Figure 18b is a top view of the self-powered open platform shown in Figure 18a, in which the lateral extensions are shown in a widened position;

[0060] Figure 19 is a front view of a pile head in accordance with one embodiment, with a sandwiching assembly in an open position;

[0061] Figure 20 is a front view of the pile head shown in Figure 19, with the sandwiching assembly in a closed position and a fastener removed therefrom;

[0062] Figure 21 is a front view of the pile head shown in Figure 19, with the sandwiching assembly in a closed position and a fastener secured to the beam member and to the sandwiching assembly;

[0063] Figure 22 is a front perspective, partially exploded view of a pile head in accordance with an alternate embodiment;

[0064] Figure 23 is a front view of the pile head shown in Figure 22;

[0065] Figure 24 is another front view of the pile head shown in Figure 22;

[0066] Figure 25 is another front view of the pile head shown in Figure 22, with the bracket abutting the top plate of the pile head;

[0067] Figure 26 is another front view of the pile head shown in Figure 22, with the bracket abutting the top plate of the pile head and the fastener engaged in the bracket and the frame member;

[0068] Figure 27 is another front view of the pile head shown in Figure 22, with the bracket abutting the top plate of the pile head, the fastener engaged in the bracket and the frame member and a bolt fastened onto the fastener;

[0069] Figure 28 is another front view of the pile head shown in Figure 22, with the bracket abutting the top plate of the pile head, the fastener engaged in the bracket and the frame member and a bolt fastened onto the fastener, and an adjustment bolt urging the frame member against the top plate of the pile head;

[0070] Figure 29 is a front perspective, partially exploded view of a pile head in accordance with an alternate embodiment;

[0071] Figure 30 is a front view of the pile head shown in Figure 29, with the U-shaped bracket in a centered position;

[0072] Figure 31 is a front view of the pile head shown in Figure 29, with the U-shaped bracket in a left position;

[0073] Figure 32 is a front view of the pile head shown in Figure 29, with the U-shaped bracket in a right position;

[0074] Figure 33a is a top view of a self-powered open platform for moving a modular building, in accordance with another embodiment, in which longitudinal beam members are shown in a narrowed position;

[0075] Figure 33b is atop view of the self-powered open platform shown in Figure 33a, in which the longitudinal beam members are shown in a widened position;

[0076] Figure 34a is a top view of a self-powered open platform for moving a manufactured building, in accordance with another embodiment, in which longitudinal beam members are shown in a narrowed position;

[0077] Figure 34b is atop view of the self-powered open platform shown in Figure 34a, in which the longitudinal beam members are shown in a widened position;

[0078] Figure 35a is a side view of a wheel lifting assembly in accordance with one embodiment, showing the wheel lifting assembly in a lowered position;

[0079] Figure 35b is a side view of the wheel lifting shown in Figure 35a, showing the wheel lifting assembly in a raised position;

[0080] Figures 36a to 36c are schematic representations of an articulated tongue assembly in accordance with one embodiment, in which the front portion is shown in a straight position (Figure 37a), raised position (Figure 37b) and lowered position (Figure 37c) relative to the rear portion;

[0081] Figure 37 is a front right view of an open platform in accordance with another embodiment shown in conjunction with a manufactured building;

[0082] Figure 38 is a right side view of the open platform as shown in Figure 37 without the manufactured building;

[0083] Figure 39 is a right side view of the open platform as shown in Figure 37 with the manufactured building;

[0084] Figure 40 is a front end view of the open platform as shown in Figure 37 with the manufactured building;

[0085] Figure 41 is a top view of the open platform as shown in Figure 37 without the manufactured building;

[0086] Figure 42 is a side view of the open platform as shown in Figure 37 without the manufactured building and with the wheels in a fully retracted position;

[0087] Figure 43 is a front view of the open platform as shown in Figure 42 without the manufactured building and with the wheels in a fully retracted position;

[0088] Figure 44 is side view of the open platform as shown in Figure 39 without the gooseneck extension with the wheels in a fully retracted position and the moving devices extended;

[0089] Figure 45a is a front end view of open platform as shown in Figure 44;

[0090] Figure 45b is a front end view of open platform as shown in Figure 44 but with the moving devices retracted;

[0091] Figures 46a and 46b are left and right side views of a first embodiment of a wheel carriage used in the open platform of Figure 37;

[0092] Figures 47a and 47b are left and right side views of a second embodiment of a wheel carriage used in the open platform of Figure 37;

[0093] Figure 48 is a perspective view of a single moving device as shown extended in Figure 44;

[0094] Figures 49a and 49b are front and side views of a single moving device as seen in Figure 48 but in a fully retracted position;

[0095] Figures 50a and 50b are side views of the single moving device as seen in Figure 48 in a fully retracted position and a fully extended position, respectively;

[0096] Figure 51 is a top view of the open platform shown in Figure 41 without the gooseneck extension and in a fully lengthened configuration;

[0097] Figure 52 is a top view of the open platform shown in Figure 41 without the gooseneck extension and in a fully shortened configuration;

[0098] Figure 53 is a detail schematic of a transverse telescoping widening mechanism for the embodiment shown in Figure 37;

[0099] Figure 54 is a detail schematic of a frame locking piston for the embodiment shown in Figure 37;

[0100] Figure 55 is a front right view of an open platform in accordance with another embodiment shown in conjunction with a modular building;

[0101] Figure 56 is a right side view of the open platform as shown in Figure 55 without the modular building;

[0102] Figure 57 is a right side view of the open platform as shown in Figure 55 with the modular building;

[0103] Figure 58 is a front end view of the open platform as shown in Figure 55 with the modular building;

[0104] Figure 59 is a top view of the open platform as shown in Figure 55 without the modular building and in a fully retracted configuration;

[0105] Figure 60 is a side view of the open platform as shown in Figure 55 without the modular building and with the wheels in a fully retracted position;

[0106] Figure 61 is a front view of the open platform as shown in Figure 60 without the modular building and with the wheels in a fully retracted position;

[0107] Figure 62 is side view of the open platform as shown in Figure 57 without the gooseneck extension with the wheels in a fully retracted position and the moving devices extended;

[0108] Figure 63a is a front end view of open platform as shown in Figure 62;

[0109] Figure 63b is a front end view of open platform as shown in Figure 62 but with the moving devices retracted;

[0110] Figures 64a and 64b are front and side views of a single moving device in accordance with the second embodiment of Figure 55 and in a fully retracted position;

[0111] Figure 65 is a top view of the open platform shown in Figure 59 without the gooseneck extension and in a fully extended configuration; and

[0112] Figure 66 is a top view of the open platform shown in Figure 59 without the gooseneck extension and in a fully retracted configuration.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0113] For purposes of the present invention, it should be understood that the requirements of the installation of a manufactured building (e.g., mobile home with its own steel frame base) differs from the installation requirements of a modular building (e.g., wood-framed home without any foundational base). This distinction is evident in installation requirements of either manufactured buildings or modular buildings in the context of helical pile as supporting structures. This is because helical piles for manufactured buildings abut the underlying steel frame base upon placement of the given manufactured buildings, whereas helical piles for modular buildings abut the periphery of these wood-framed structures upon placement of the given modular home. This presents unique problems regarding manufactured buildings relative to modular buildings, and vice versa. Thus, whilethe open platform for moving structures is provided herewith for implementations including either manufactured buildings or modular buildings, a variety of alternative embodiments are provided, and which provide distinct solutions to the installation problems associated with either manufactured buildings or modular buildings. While it should be readily apparent that both manufactured buildings or modular buildings are manufactured, the intended distinction made throughout the present disclosure is that installation requirement differ between these building types (manufactured vs. modular) and therefore structural distinctions exist among the alternative embodiments of the present open platform for moving structures.

[0114] In one or more embodiments, the open platform for moving structures is used to position various building types (manufactured and modular) onto supporting structures such as an array of helical piles comprising at least two rows of helical piles, each row consisting of several piles. Examples of such pile arrays are described in US Patent No. 11,299,863 granted on March 23, 2022, and entitled SUPPORT ASSEMBEY FOR A BUILDING STRUCTURE, and in PCT Patent Application No. PCT / IB2023 / 056222 filed on June 15, 2023 and entitled SUPPORT ASSEMBLY FOR A BUILDING STRUCTURE, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0115] With reference to Figure 1, there is shown a front right perspective view of a self-powered open platform 10 for moving a manufactured building, in accordance with one embodiment. Here, it should be noted that the interior of the platform 10 is generally devoid of any structure that may interfere with an array of helical piles (not shown) which enables the platform 10 to effectively straddle such an array situated under the base of the given manufactured building. This enables the platform to be removed from the job site without interfering with the array.

[0116] In the illustrated embodiment in Figure 1 , the open platform 10 takes the general form of a trailer towable at a coupler 34 by a vehicle such a semi or a pickup truck (not shown). As such, the platform 10 comprises a frame 14 for supporting a manufactured building (not shown), as well as two sets of wheels 16a, 16b, 16c and 18a, 18b, 18c. The wheels are generally positioned at a location along the frame so as to maximize weight distribution atop the frame during high-speed transport of the manufactured building whereby the normal carrying points would be the wheelbase of the wheels and the coupler34. As shown, the wheels are mounted proximal to a rear end 28 of the frame 14 opposite the coupler 34. As mentioned, the wheels allow for movement of the open platform 10 at a relatively high speed (e.g., between 35 km / h and 100 km / h or 22 mph and 60 mph) on a surface such as a road, when the platform 10 is being towed by a vehicle (not shown), for instance to carry a manufactured building from the location it is manufactured to the site where it will be installed, as it will become apparent below. In some embodiments, the two sets of wheels 16a, 16b, 16c and 18a, 18b, 18c are mounted on the exterior sides of the frame members (for instance, as shown in Figures 1, 2a and 2b) while in some other embodiments, the wheels may be mounted on the interior side of the frame members 22, 24 (for instance, as shown in Figures 33a, 33b, 34a and 34b).

[0117] The open platform 10 also includes extending self-propelled moving devices 48a-48d. These moving devices are common to all embodiments disclosed herein. Provided proximal to the front end 26 and proximal to the rear end 28 of each longitudinal frame member 22, 24, the moving devices 48a-48d are extendable vertically for raising the frame 14 of the open platform 10 while are providing motorized tracks for moving the open platform 10 along the ground to properly position the manufactured building at the installation site by lowering the manufactured building onto supporting structures such as screw piles or helical piles, as it will become apparent below (for example, the self-propelled moving devices being mounted to the exterior side of the longitudinal frame members 22, 24 in Figure 1 and also in Figures 34a and 34b in accordance with one embodiment, and on the interior side in Figures 2a, 2b, 4 to 16, 33a and 33b, in accordance with another embodiment). The moving devices 48a-48d are essentially identical to one another, and as such only moving device 48a will be described later hereinbelow. It will be appreciated that a similar description also applies to moving devices 48b-48d as well as others shown throughout this disclosure.

[0118] Figures 2a through 16 represent an alternative embodiment relative to Figure 1 in that the wheels 16a, 16b, 16c and 18a, 18b, 18c are still located outside the longitudinal frame members 22, 24, however the moving devices 48a-48d are placed inside the longitudinal frame members 22, 24. Embodiments with the moving devices located interior to the frame members provides more working space outside the frame members such that helical piles (e.g., as shown by elements 70 in Figure 6) do not interfere in any way with theopen platform 10. Stated differently, the open platform 10 as a whole may move forward or backward without impacting the placement of the helical piles nor the helical piles impacting the placement of the open platform 10. As should therefore be readily apparent in this embodiment of Figures 2a through 16, the open platform would be applicable to modular buildings which as previously stated are generally supported at their periphery.

[0119] Figure 2a shows a top view of a self-powered open platform for moving a modular building in which longitudinal beam members are shown in a narrowed position while Figure 2b is a top view of the self-powered open platform shown in Figure 2a, in which the longitudinal beam members are shown in a widened position. Movement from the narrowed position to the widened position is actuated by an extendible tongue 30 that comprises first and second telescopic members 36, 38, each telescopic member 36, 38 extending at an angle 0i relative to the longitudinal frame member 22, 24 to which it is attached, the telescopic members 36, 38 converge toward one another to meet proximal to the region of the coupler 34. The telescopic members 36, 38 effectively form a transverse telescoping widening mechanism. In one embodiment, the angle 0i between a longitudinal beam member 22 or 24 and its corresponding telescopic members 36 or 38 vary between 100 degrees and 150 degrees, but it will be understood that the angle 0i may be adapted depending on whether one prefers modifying the width more than the length of the platform 10 or vice versa.

[0120] While placement of the moving devices 48a-48d differs from the embodiment of Figure 1 relative to Figures 2a and 2b, it should be readily apparent, the frame 14 of either embodiment includes the pair of longitudinal frame members 22, 24 each comprising a front end 26 and a rear end 28, as well as an extendible tongue assembly 20 provided at the front ends 26 of the longitudinal frame members 22, 24. As it will become apparent below, the extendible tongue assembly 30 allows simultaneously widening and lengthening (or narrowing and shortening) the open platform 10. Provided on the extendible tongue 30 is the coupler 34 for removably attaching the platform 10 to the vehicle (not shown) fortowing the platform 10. As it will be appreciated, the tongue 32 may take different forms, such that the platform 10 may resemble a flatbed trailer, a lowboy trailer, a step deck trailer, a deck over-highboy trailer, or a gooseneck trailer, when seen from the left or right side. Likewise,the coupler 34 may be any suitable type of coupler for removably attaching the platform 10 to a vehicle having a complementary attachment device mounted thereon.

[0121] In some embodiments, the wheels 16a, 16b, 16c and 18a, 18b, 18c may be mounted to the frame members 22, 24 via a lifting assembly that may take a variety of forms though will effectively provide vertical displacement of the wheels by actuation of one or more actuating elements such as, but not limited to, hydraulic cylinders, electric actuators, or any suitable actuating mechanism. Likewise, the wheels may be locked in position (i.e., raised or lowered configurations) so as to enable use or disuse of the wheels. This aspect is shown in one possible form in Figures 35a and 35b and also later shown and described with regard to another form in Figures 46b and 47b.

[0122] It should be noted that throughout this disclosure, the embodiments described first require moving devices to the lowered to engage the ground surface prior to the wheels being raised in a state of disuse. Figures 3a through 16 illustrate this principle as one exemplary implementation.

[0123] Vertical movement of the wheels is shown whereby Figure 35a is a side view of a wheel lifting assembly in accordance with one embodiment, showing the wheel lifting assembly in a lowered position, while Figure 35b is a side view of the wheel lifting shown in Figure 35a, showing the wheel lifting assembly in a raised position. The lifting assembly comprises a wheel supporting member 502 to which are rotatably attached wheels 18a- 18c. The wheel supporting member 502 is attached to frame member 24 via pivoting links 504, 506, which allow a pivoting movement of the wheel supporting member 502 downward and frontward relative to the frame member 24. To urge the pivoting movement of the supporting member 502 relative to the frame member 24, an actuator 508 such as a hydraulic cylinder is provided. In the illustrated embodiment, when the actuator 508 is in a retracted position, the wheel supporting member 502 is close to the frame member 24, therefore lowering the frame member 24 relative to the ground (as shown in Figure 35a). When the actuator 508 is in an extended position (as shown in Figure 35b), the wheel supporting member 502 is moved away from the frame member 24, therefore raising the frame member 24 relative to the ground surface. As it will be appreciated, such a configuration allows raising or lowering the open platform 10 relative to the ground surface. While in this case a hydraulic cylinder is illustrated, it will be understood that other configurations of actuators would be suitable.For instance, an air suspension comprising one or multiple air bladders may be provided. Also, it will be appreciated that other configurations of wheel supporting members 502 are possible. For instance, instead of being mounted underneath the frame member 24 the wheel supporting member 502 may be mounted on its side. Provided that the wheels are properly positioned, such a configuration would allow further downward movement of the frame member 24 relative to the ground as the wheel supporting member 502 would travel further up and is not restricted by the presence of the frame member 24 located above it. In other instances, the frame member 24 may be provided with a slot or pocket for receiving therein the wheel supporting member 502 thereby providing additional movement as compared to a configuration where the lower surface of the frame member may be flat and the wheel supporting member would rest abut the frame when in a retracted position.

[0124] While not detailed in Figures 35a and 35b, when the wheels are in use for moving the platform along a road at relatively higher speeds, the wheels would be provided with an air suspension. Air suspension mechanisms typically include an air bladder fluidly connected to an air pump controlling the volume of air contained in the air bladder as is known in the suspension art and will not be further discussed herein. Two such configurations are shown by way of another exemplary embodiment of the platform in Figures 46a, 46b, 47a, and 47b. Either of the two configurations shown and described may be suitable for all embodiments of the present invention. With reference to Figures 46a and 46b, an example of such an air suspension 4503 is provided integrated with the wheel set 4501, 4502. However, to reduce the required clearance above the wheels when in the fully retracted position, an alternative configuration may be used as shown by Figure 47b whereby an air suspension 4513 may be provided within the frame to dampen the wheels via their couplings of the frame and hydraulic actuator. This latter configuration thus provides for a lower profile of the fully retracted wheels.

[0125] In some or all embodiments, the tongue 30 may be articulated to allow lowering or raising the front end of the platform 10 while it is still attached to the towing vehicle. One possible example of this is provided by way of Figure 36. Here, the articulated portion comprises a front portion 702 provided with the coupler 34 to attach the platform 10 to the towing vehicle, and a rear portion 704 connected to the remaining portion of the tongue, for instance the telescopic members 36, 38 as seen in Figures 1, 2a, and 2b. The front portion702 and the rear portion 704 are connected to one another via a pivot 706. A hydraulic actuator 708 is provided to urge the front portion 702 in a straight orientation relative to the rear portion 704 (shown in Figure 36a), upwardly relative to the rear portion 704 (shown in Figure 36b) or downwardly relative to the rear portion 704 (shown in Figure 36c), hence aligning the front end of the platform 10 upwardly or downwardly relative to the ground. This is particularly useful in situations where, for example, the platform is raised or lowered by the moving devices in the manner later described. This vertical displacement of the coupler allows for the tow vehicle to remain attached while raising or lowering the wheels thereby maintaining the building structure itself in a generally level position without tilt.

[0126] The telescopic members 36 and 38 being mirror images of one another, only telescopic member 36 will be described. It will be understood that a similar description also applies to telescopic member 38, with proper adaptations. Telescopic member 36 comprises a first member 39 having a front end 40 connected to the coupler 34, and an open rear end 42, as well as a second member 41. The second member 41 is sized and shaped to be received int eh first member 39, and to slide in and out relative thereto. More specifically, the second member 41 comprises a front end 44 slidably engaged into the first member 39, via the open rear end 42, and a rear end 46 attached to the front end 26 of longitudinal frame member 22. An actuator, such as a hydraulic actuator (not shown) is provided inside the first and second members 39, 41 to urge translational movement (i.e., telescoping action) of the second member 41 relative to the first member 39, thus allowing widening and lengthening to the open platform 10 (when the second member 41 slides outside of the first members 39) or narrowing and shortening of the open platform 10 (when the second member 39 slides inside the first member 39). In other words, the telescoping action effectively moves frame members 22 and 24 both relative to one another (i.e., widening / narrowing) and relative to the coupler (i.e., lengthening / shortening).

[0127] Common to all embodiments of the platform disclosed herein are moving devices shown in one configuration as seen by Figure 48 and shown in another configuration with regard to Figure 2 which latter configuration is described in terms of its operation with regard to Figures 3a-3f, as discussed as follows.

[0128] Proximal to the front end 26 and proximal to the rear end 28 of each longitudinal frame member 22, 24 are extending, self-propelled moving devices 48a-48d for bothraising / lowering the frame 14 of the platform 10 and also enabling relatively slower movement of the platform 10 upon retraction of the wheels. Such slower movement of the platform 10 along the ground enables proper positioning of the building at the installation site and placement of the same onto supporting structures such as screw piles or helical piles, as it will become apparent below. (The self-propelled moving devices are mounted to the exterior side of the longitudinal frame members 22, 24 in Figure 1 and also in Figures 34a, 34b, and 37-54 in accordance with one embodiment, and on the interior side in Figures 2a, 2b, 4 to 16, 33a, 33b, and 55-66 in accordance with another embodiment.) The moving devices 48a-48d in being essentially identical to one another, only moving device 48a will be described. It will be appreciated that a similar description also applies to moving devices 48b-48d.

[0129] In the illustrated embodiment, the moving device 48a takes the general form of a bi-leveling scissor apparatus having a top portion 52 securely fastened to the longitudinal frame member 22, an undercarriage 54 and a scissor assembly 56. The scissor assembly 56 comprises a plurality of scissor arms 58 and at least one lift cylinder (not shown) operatively coupled to the top portion 52, the undercarriage 54 and / or one or multiple scissor arms 58 of the scissor assembly 56 to vertically vary the distance between the top portion 52 and the undercarriage 54 of the moving device 48a, hence raising or lowering the platform 10 relative to the ground surface, as it will be explained in greater details below.

[0130] In the illustrated embodiment shown in Figures 3a-3f, Figure 3a is a schematic representation of a front view of a moving device with its scissor assembly in a retracted position and the undercarriage in a fully horizontal position. Figure 3b is a schematic representation of the moving device shown in Figure 3a, with the scissor assembly in an extended position and the undercarriage in a fully horizontal position. Figure 3c is a schematic representation of the moving device shown in Figure 3a, with the scissor assembly in a partially extended position and the undercarriage in a sidewardly leveled position. Figure 3d is a schematic representation of a side view of the moving device, with the scissor assembly in a retracted position and the undercarriage in a fully horizontal position. Figure 3e is a schematic representation of the moving device shown in Figure 3d, with the scissor assembly in an extended position and the undercarriage in a fully horizontal position. Figure 3f is a schematic representation of the moving device shown in Figure 3d, with the scissorassembly in a partially extended position and the undercarriage in a rearwardly leveled position.

[0131] The undercarriage 54 is a bi-leveling undercarriage provided with a pair of tracks 60a, 60b. More specifically, the undercarriage 54 comprises a track frame (not shown) supporting tracks 62 (e.g., rubber tracks or steel tracks) and a drive assembly (not shown) for propelling the tracks 62, a supporting platform 64 for supporting the scissor assembly 56 and a bi-leveling assembly (not shown) positioned between the track frame and the supporting platform 64 for leveling the supporting platform 64 relative to the track frame in the longitudinal direction (frontward / rearward - shown respectively in Figures 4f, 10 and 11) and / or transverse direction (sideward - shown in Figures 4c and 13), as it will become apparent below. In one embodiment, the bi-leveling assembly comprises a first set of actuators for tilting the front end or the rear end of the track frame downwardly relative to the supporting platform 64 such that when the scissor assembly extends vertically, the tracks 62 of the moving device 48a extend at an angle relative to the vertical, to adjust to the inclination of the ground onto which the platform 10 is moved, in the travel direction. The bi-leveling assembly also comprises a second set of actuators for urging a vertical movement of the right and left track relative to one another. In other words, the second set of actuators allow a first track (e.g., the right track) to be positioned lower than the second track (e.g., the left track), thus allowing the two tracks to travel along two different planes or levels. As it will become apparent below, the bi-leveling assembly allows maintaining a horizontal level of the platform 10 relative to the installation ground while the manufactured home is moved to be positioned onto the screw piles or other supporting structures.

[0132] While in the present embodiment, the moving device 48a is provided with a scissor assembly 56 for moving the undercarriage 54 relative to the top portion 52, the moving device 48a may be provided with a different type of actuating or extending devices, such as a plurality of vertically or angularly extending hydraulic actuators (e.g., 3 or 4 hydraulic actuators). In such an embodiment, the leveling of the top portion 52 and the undercarriage 54 relative to one another may be achieved via these hydraulic actuators instead of resorting on a bi-leveling assembly positioned between a supporting platform 64 and track frame.

[0133] In some embodiments, the moving device 48a may also be provided with a steering assembly or a pivot (not shown), located at a position permitting rotation of the track frame relative to the top portion 52 of the moving device 48a. In such a case, the steering assembly or pivot would allow additional steering of the platform 10, by permitting the actuation of the tracks 62 in opposite direction (e.g., the right track being moved in the forward direction while the left track is moved in the rearward direction) and causing the rotation of the track frame relative to the top portion 52 (which is secured to the longitudinal frame member 22). Once the orientation of the various moving devices 48a-48d is adjusted in accordance with the desire of the operator, the moving devices 48a-48d may be operated to move the platform 10 in a given direction.

[0134] In one embodiment, the drive assembly (not shown) of the moving device 48a comprises a pair of hydraulic motors (one hydraulic motor per track), operatively coupled to a hydraulic pump (not shown), itself coupled to a motor (e.g., a combustion engine or an electric motor). In one embodiment, each moving device is provided with a hydraulic pump. In another embodiment, the platform 10 may be provided with a single hydraulic pump and a single motor for operating the same, the single hydraulic pump being connected to all moving devices 48a-48d, and to the hydraulic actuators of the lateral extensions and / or of the longitudinally extendable frame. Alternatively, the hydraulic pump may be provided on the towing vehicle, and operatively connected to the various actuators of the platform 10 via hose extensions having a sufficient length to allow movement of the platform 10 towards the installation site without moving the towing vehicle (e.g., 100 or 200 feet hydraulic hoses).

[0135] In one embodiment, the platform 10 is also equipped with a number of sensors (e.g., level sensors) and a controller (e.g., a computer) for monitoring the plane of the ground onto which the platform 10 is moved and controlling the various actuators of the bi -leveling assembly and the hydraulic motors of the moving devices 48a-48d to automatically level the undercarriage of the moving devices 48a-48d according to the slopes.

[0136] It will be appreciated that the number and positioning of the moving devices 48a-48d may vary without departing from the scope of the invention. It will also be understood that the moving devices 48a-48d could be provided with a different number of tracks (e.g., a single-track, or more than two tracks), or that tracks may be replaced withappropriately dimensioned wheels. It will also be understood that the number of tracks, their length, their width and their type (e.g., rubber or steel track) may be adjusted according to the loads to be supported by the platform 10 and the type of surface onto which the platform must travel to position the manufactured home on the supporting structures.

[0137] Having described the general components of the platform 10, its use will now be described in connection with an example with reference to Figures 4 through 16. In this example, a modular building 12 is manufactured in a manufacturing facility, remote from the final installation site of the modular building. Typically, such modular buildings are built on supporting structures raising the modular building relative to the floor or ground of the manufacturing facility. To move the manufactured home from the manufacturing facility to the final installation site, the platform 10 is brought to the manufacturing site, the platform preferably resting on its wheels 16a, 16b, 16c and 18a, 18b, 18c (with the moving devices 48a-48d retracted and disengaged from ground surface) and being attached to a towing vehicle. The platform 10 is then positioned underneath the modular building 12 by backing up the towing vehicle until the platform 10 is properly positioned under the modular building 12. At that time, the scissor assemblies 56 of the moving devices 48a-48d are actuated such that the undercarriage 54 engage the floor of the manufacturing facility and provide support points to the platform 10. At that time, the platform 10 may be detached from the towing vehicle, and the towing vehicle moved slightly away from the platform 10. The longitudinal frame members 22, 24 are then positioned properly by moving them into their widened or narrowed positions by moving the second members 41 of the telescopic members 36, 28, until they are vertically aligned with the frame members of the modular building 12 they are intended to support. At that moment, the scissor assemblies 56 of the moving devices 48a- 48d are further actuated for the longitudinal members 22, 24 to engage the frame members of the modular building 12, and to lift the modular building 12 until it is disengaged from the supporting structures of the manufacturing facility, which may then be removed to clear the path for moving the platform 10. The moving devices 48a-48d are then lowered thereby lowering the platform 10 and allow attachment of the platform 10 to the towing vehicle, and the scissor assemblies 56 are further moved upwardly until the undercarriage 54 is moved up from the ground, with a maximum vertical clearance. At the point, the platform 10 is partially supported by the towing vehicle and rests on its wheel 16a- 16c and 18a- 18c, to be moved proximal to the final installation site, at a relatively high speed (e.g. 35 km / h or 22miles / h). This foregoing is shown by Figures 4 and 9 with the moving devices in a fully retracted position and the platform resting on its wheels for towing at a relatively high speed.

[0138] When the towing vehicle transporting the modular building 12 reaches a destination proximal to the installation site, the towing vehicle and the platform 10 are positioned on the street or another relatively flat surface. At that time, the scissor assemblies 56 of the moving devices 48a-48d are actuated such that the undercarriage 54 is moved downwardly to engage the surface of the street and provide support points to the platform 10 and modular building 12 supported thereon. At that time, the platform 10 supporting the modular building 12 may be detached from the towing vehicle, and the towing vehicle be moved slightly away from the platform 10. At that moment, the scissor assemblies 56 of the moving devices 48a-48d are further actuated to lift platform 10 and the modular building 12 until a desired vertical clearance is reached.

[0139] Figure 5 is a schematic representation of the platform and modular building shown in Figure 4, with the moving devices in such an extended position and the wheels raised above the ground for the frame of the modular building to clear the top of an array of helical piles. The vertical clearance required may be determined by measuring the height of the screw piles 70 protruding from the ground, and ensuring that the longitudinal beam members 22, 24 are sufficiently high for the frame of the modular building to clear the top of the screw piles 70. As it will be understood, the vertical clearance may vary from one pile 70 to another in a pile array, depending on the topography of the land where the modular building is to be installed. For instance, the clearance required for piles located downhill of a sloped terrain will be greater than the clearance required for the piles located uphill. As such, the initial clearance set may correspond to the clearance required for the first piles that will be encountered when moving the platform and modular building 12 at the time of installation and be adjusted according to the topography of the terrain as the modular building is moved further towards its final position on the screw pile array.

[0140] When the minimal clearance for platform 10 is set, the wheels 16a-16c and 18a- 18c of the platform 10 may or may not be lifted away from the ground, but preferably are. At that moment, the operator resorts on the controller for controlling and coordinating movement of the moving devices 48a-48d (via the hydraulic motors actuated by the hydraulic pump) such that the platform 10 is moved towards the screw pile array. Still usingthe controller, the operator steers the platform 10 into position, the controller sequentially and / or simultaneously controlling the moving devices 48a-48d such that the appropriate translational and turning movement of the platform 10 occur. As the platform 10 is gradually engaged in the pile array (i.e., between two rows of piles 70), the frame of the modular building 12 clears the top of the piles and allow further movement of the platform 10 and modular building supported thereby (as shown in Figures 5 and 10). Still using the controller, which may be automatically or manually controlled, the height of the various moving devices 48a-48d may be adjusted according to the topography of the terrain such while the modular building supported 12 on the platform 10 remains leveled and properly supported on the ground. When needed, the controller actuates the bi-leveling assemblies of the moving devices 48a-48d such that the tracks 62 of the moving devices 48a-48d remain in contact with the ground surface (as shown in Figures 10 and 13).

[0141] When the modular building 12 supported on the platform 10 is properly positioned, namely when the supporting beams of the modular building 12 are each in a vertical alignment with a row of screw piles, the modular building 12 may be lowered down onto the screw piles 70 (as shown in Figures 6 and 11). To do so, the scissor assemblies 56 of the moving devices 48a-48d are moved upwardly, hence causing the platform 10 to move downwardly relative to the ground. The supporting beams of the modular building 12 gradually rest on the top of the screw piles 70 and, as the platform 10 further moves downwardly, longitudinal beam members 22, 24 disengage from the supporting beams of the modular building 12 . At that point, the longitudinal beam members 22, 24 may be moved from the widened position (shown in Figures 4 to 7) to the fully narrowed position (shown in Figure 8) by retracting the telescopic members 36, 38. At that point, the overall width of the platform 10 is reduced, and provides sufficient horizontal clearance relative to the various piles 70 to allow the platform 10 to be removed from the underneath of the modular building 12 (shown in Figures 8 and 12). The platform 10 is then removed, reattached to the towing vehicle as explained above, and may leave the installation site.

[0142] At that point, the modular building may be secured to the helical piles using methodologies and devices such as those described in US Patent No. 11,299,863 granted on March 23, 2022 and entitled SUPPORT ASSEMBUY FOR A BUILDING STRUCTURE, and in PCT Patent Application No. PCT / IB2023 / 056222 filed on June 15, 2023 and entitledSUPPORT ASSEMBLY FOR A BUILDING STRUCTURE, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0143] With reference to Figures 17a and 17b, there are shown an alternate embodiment of an open platform 110. In this embodiment, the platform comprises a frame 114 mounted on wheels 116a-118a. The frame 114 comprises a pair of longitudinal frame members 122, 124 extending along a longitudinal axis (i.e. the travel direction of the platform 10 when towed in a straight direction on a road) and each comprising a front end 128 and a rear end 130, and a plurality of cross-members 126a-126c forming another transverse telescoping widening mechanism, extending transverse to the longitudinal frame members 122, 124 and distributed between the front end 128 and the rear end 130, and structurally maintaining the longitudinal frame members 122, 124 in a spaced-apart, parallel position. In some embodiments, the frame 114 may be an expandable frame such that the distance between the front end 128 and the rear end 130 of each longitudinal member 122, 124 of the frame 114 is adjustable along the longitudinal axis to accommodate modular buildings of different lengths while reducing overhang. For instance, each longitudinal member 122, 124 may be a telescopic frame member allowing the length of the platform 110 to be adjusted.

[0144] Provided at the front end 28 of the longitudinal frame members 122, 124 is a tongue 132 and a coupler 134 for removably attaching the platform 10 to the vehicle (not shown), for towing the same. As before it will be appreciated, the tongue 132 may take different forms, such that the platform 110 may resemble a flatbed trailer, a lowboy trailer, a step deck trailer, a deck over-highboy trailer, or a gooseneck trailer, when seen from the left or right side. Likewise, the coupler 134 may be any suitable type of coupler for removably attaching the platform 10 to a vehicle having a complementary attachment device mounted thereon.

[0145] In the illustrated embodiment, the platform 10 is provided with a pair of lateral extensions 136, 138 mounted to the frame 114, and movable between a retracted position (shown in in Figure 17a, to reduce overall width of the platform 110) and an extended position (shown in Figure 17b, to widen the platform 110). The lateral extensions 136, 138 being essentially mirror images of one another, only lateral extension 136 will be described. It will be understood that a similar description also applies to lateral extension 138, with proper adaptations. In the illustrated embodiment, lateral extension 136 is designed tosupport a portion of the modular building and comprises a longitudinal beam 140 a plurality of transverse members 142a- 142c extending perpendicular to the longitudinal frame member 122, away from the frame member 114. As best shown in Figure 17a, each transverse member 142a- 142c is aligned with a corresponding cross-member 126a- 126c of the frame 114, and is engaged or received therein. More specifically, each transverse member 142a- 142c has an internal portion sized and shaped to be received in the cross-member 126a- 126c and an external end connected to the longitudinal beam 140. In an alternate embodiment, a supporting plate 144a- 144c may be provided on the top of the external end of each transverse member 142a- 142c so as to engage the frame of the manufactured home 12 and lifting the same, instead of having a longitudinal beam 140 (best shown in Figures 18a and 18b). In such an embodiment, the number of transverse members 142a-142c and their distribution or position between the front end 128 of the frame 114 and the rear end 130 thereof would be adapted to properly distribute the loads of the manufactured home 12 supported thereon, and prevent bending or movement of the manufacture home during transport, which may cause damages to the manufacture home (e.g., wall and ceiling cracking). The internal portion of the transverse member 142a- 142c allows the transverse member 142a- 142c to slide in and out of the cross-member 126a-126c, hence allowing the lateral extension 136 to move between the retracted and extended positions (shown respectively in Figures 17a, 18a and Figures 17b, 18b). Hydraulic or mechanical actuators (e.g., screw type actuators) may be provided to urge movement of the lateral extension 136 relative to the frame 114.

[0146] As it will become apparent below, the lateral extensions 136, 138 may be moved between the retracted and extended positions so as to adjust to the width of the modular building 12 to properly support it during transport. For instance, with a conventional modular building, the lateral extension could be retracted such that they support the longitudinal beams of the manufactured home. Alternatively, with a manufactured home provided with a peripheral frame (i.e., a frame extending about the periphery of the modular building), the lateral extensions may be deployed partially or entirely (depending on the width of the modular building) so as to support frame members extending longitudinally along the longitudinal walls of the modular building. Along with the moving devices 48a- 48d, it is possible to lift the platform 110 such that the frame of the modular building 12 clears the top of the piles 70 at the time of positioning the modular building relative to the pile array, and, when the platform 110 must be removed from underneath the modularbuilding 12 properly resting on piles 70, the lateral extensions 136, 138 may be retracted to facilitate exiting the platform 110 from under the modular building.

[0147] In some embodiments, the longitudinal members (when they have a telescopic configuration) and / or the lateral extensions are provided with actuators (e.g., hydraulic cylinders) for allowing expansion and retraction of the telescopic or extension members.

[0148] In the above embodiments, the moving devices 48a-48d have been described as being adapted to support the weight of the platform 10 or 110 along with the modular building 12 resting thereon. As it will be appreciated, in some instance, the strength and / or power of the moving devices 48a-48d, or the bearing capacity on some types of grounds may not be sufficient. In such cases, it will be appreciated that instead of detaching the towing vehicle proximal to the installation site, and resorting on the moving devices 48a- 48b to move the platforms 10 or 110 and the modular building supported thereon from the street to the final installation site, the platform 10 or 110 could be moved close to its final destination in the screw pile array, and the positioning devices 48a-48d be used to fine-tune the position of the platform 10 or 110 relative to the screw pile array and / or only to detach the platform 10 or 110 from the towing vehicle once the modular building rests on the screw piles and to extract the same from underneath the modular building installed. In such an embodiment, the fact that platforms 10 or 110 may prove to be particularly advantageous when the space required to position the modular building is sufficient to accommodate the towing vehicle and the platform 10 or 110 attached thereto at the time of installing the modular building, but insufficient when the modular building 12 has been installed and rests on the array of piles.

[0149] As it will be appreciated, securing the modular building 12 to the piles 70 can prove to be challenging in some instance. Accordingly, in one embodiment, there is provided a configuration of a pile head 200 useful when provided in conjunction with the implementation of the platform of the present disclosure. The pile head 200 which allows securing a portion of a frame member 202 of a modular building is shown Figures 19 to 21. In this embodiment, the pile head 200 comprises a plate 204 mounted to the top of a pile 206, and a sandwiching assembly 208 pivotably mounted on the plate 204. The sandwiching assembly 208 comprises a pair of L-shaped brackets 210a, 210b facing each other and pivotably mounted to the plate 204 via a hinge 212a, 212b. Each L-shaped bracket comprisesa lower portion 214a, 214b and an upper portion 216a, 216b extending at a 90-degree angle relative to the corresponding lower portions 214a, 214b. When the frame member 202 of the modular home 12 is away from the pile head 200, the L-shaped brackets 210a, 210b are in an open configuration, i.e., they are pivoted outwardly such that the lower and upper portions 214a, 214b and 216a, 216b are at an angle relative to the horizontal and to the vertical. As the portion of the frame member 202 is lowered down on the pile head 200, it gradually engages the lower portions 214a, 214b and forces them toward the plate 204, hence urging the upper portions 216a, 216b toward one another (and toward the vertical), until they engage the opposite sides of the frame member 202. At that point, a fastener such as a bolt 220 and a nut 222 may be used to secure the upper portions 216a, 216b and the frame member 202 via holes (not shown) defined therein.

[0150] With reference to Figures 22 to 28, there is shown an alternate embodiment of a pile head 300 to secure the modular building 12 to the piles 70. In this embedment, the pile head 300 comprises a plate 304 mounted to the top of a pile 306, and a bracket assembly 308 configured to engage a frame member 302 of the modular building 12 and the plate 304 for securing the frame member 302, as it will be described in greater details below. In the illustrated embodiment, the bracket assembly 208 comprises a pair of U-shaped brackets 310a, 310b for engaging the plate 304. Each U-shaped bracket comprises a lower portion 314 and a pair of spaced-apart upper portions 316a, 316b extending at a 90-degree angle relative to the lower portion 314, on each side thereof. In the lower portion 314 is defined a threaded hole (not shown) for receiving a bolt 317 for urging the frame member 302 against the plate 304 as it will become apparent below. Provided on each upper portion 316a, 316b is a hole 318 for receiving therein a fastener such as a bolt 320, to which may be fastened a nut 322.

[0151] To assemble the pile head 300 along with the frame member 302, the frame member 302 is positioned onto the to plate 304 as the modular building 12 is lowered on the array of screws pile 70. As it will be appreciated, the frame member 302 may not be perfectly straight in some instances, hence being slightly spaced from the top plate 304 even if the modular building 12 rests on the array of piles 70 (e.g. as shown in Figures 24 and 25). To properly fasten the frame member 302 to the pile head 300, the brackets 308 are positioned relative to the top plate 304 such that their lower portions 314 and the bolt 317 abut theunderneath of the top plate 304, with the upper portions 316a, 316b extending on each side of the frame member 302. At that point, the fastener 320 may be engaged in the holes 318 and in the frame member 302 (as shown in Figure 26), and the nut 322 may be fastened on the bolt 320 (as shown in Figure 27). At that point, the bolt 317 may be used to pull downwardly the brackets 308 and the frame member 302 attached thereon (via fastener 320), hence pulling down the frame member 302 against the top plate 304 and maintaining the same in position (as shown in Figure 28).

[0152] With reference to Figures 29 to 32, there is shown yet another embodiment of a pile head 400 to secure the modular building 12 to the piles 70. In this embodiment, the pile head 400 comprises a U-shaped bracket 401 for receiving a frame member 402 therein and securing it to a threaded portion 406 of the pile head 400. More specifically, the U-shaped bracket 409 comprises a frame receiving portion 403 and a lateral adjustment portion 405 mounted underneath the frame receiving portion 403. The frame receiving portion 403 comprises a horizontal plate 407 and a pair of vertically extending side members 408a, 408b. The lateral adjustment portion 405 has the general configuration of a C-channel open on each side of the horizontal plate 407 and provided with an elongated slot 410. An elongated securing block 411 is receivable in the lateral adjustment portion 405 and is provided with a threaded hole 412 extending vertically, the threaded hole 412 being sized to receive and engage the threaded portion 406 of the pile head 400.

[0153] To assemble the pile head 400, the securing block 411 is engaged in the lateral adjustment portion 405 until the threaded hole 412 is aligned with the elongated slot 410. At that point, the threaded portion 406 can be engaged into the threaded hole 412 of the securing block 411, via the elongated slot 410. As it will be appreciated, the fact that the lateral adjustment portion 405 is provided with an elongated slot 410 allows the U-shaped bracket 409 to move laterally on the left (as shown in Figure 31) or on the right (as shown in Figure 32) to align the pile head 400 with the frame member 402 of the modular building 12 in instances where the frame member 402 is not perfectly aligned with the helical pile 70.

[0154] As previously discussed hereinabove, the open platform in accordance with the present invention may be used for either transport and maneuvering of either manufactured buildings or modular buildings. Figures 37 to 54 illustrate another embodiment of the open platform configured and optimized for transport and maneuvering of manufacturedbuildings, while Figures 54 to 66 illustrate yet another embodiment of the open platform configured and optimized for transport and maneuvering of modular buildings. It should be recalled that while both manufactured buildings and modular buildings are structures which are manufactured in factory settings, the distinction made in the present application is that manufactured buildings will include a structural frame (typically in the form of steel beam matrix or the like) while modular buildings include structural wooden supporting members (typically in the form of a series of supporting joists). When installed in conjunction with pile members, this requires pile supports on the interior steel beam of manufactured building while modular buildings require pile supports on their perimeter. The two additional embodiments described with regard to Figures 37 to 66 therefore provide similar, yet divergent approaches in their structure and function to address the requirements of transport, maneuvering, and installation of these similar yet differing building structures.

[0155] Figure 37 is a front right view of an open platform in accordance with another embodiment 3700 shown in conjunction with a manufactured building 3701. As in previously described embodiments, the open platform 3704 includes a set of moving devices 3702a, 3702b (with two additional hidden from view) along with a set of wheels 3703 (one set hidden from view). In this embodiment, the open platform 3704 includes a gooseneck extension 3705 as tongue with a coupler for attachment to a tow vehicle (not shown). It should be understood that for any embodiments disclosed herein the tongue may take any form (e.g., gooseneck) and as well the coupler may take any form (e.g., ball coupler) so long they collectively provide a coupling mechanism for removeable engagement with a given tow vehicle. With additional reference to Figure 38 which shows a right side view of the open platform as shown in Figure 37 though without the manufactured building in place, it may be seen that the open platform includes a control housing 3707. The control housing 3707 may include all electronics, a power source, and user control devices capable of enabling a user to operate all aspects of the open platform. The power source may be electrical, gas engine based, or any combination thereof including components related to hydraulic pressure generation. Such aspects may include lengthening or shortening the frame members 3708, 3709, 3710, 3711, raising or lowering the wheel sets 3703, 3706, and raising or lowering along with maneuvering the sets of moving devices 3702a, 3702b. Widening or narrowing the open platform will also be discussed with further reference to the drawings.

[0156] It accordance with all embodiments disclosed herein, it should be noted that the frame members may comprise two parallel elongated sections which themselves may be extended and retracted in a telescoping manner. Likewise, each parallel section may be connected to an intermediate frame section that forms the transverse telescoping widening mechanism discussed herein. In this manner, the overall frame may comprise a U-shape that is adjustable in its length and width.

[0157] With regard to Figure 39, there is shown a right side view of the open platform as seen in Figure 37 with the manufactured building 3701 resting atop the open platform. Here, the open platform is shown in a lengthened configuration whereby the frame members 3710 and 3711 are distanced from one another in a telescoping manner by an internal piston- driven first extender section 3712. Likewise, the rearward (rightmost) section of the open platform itself includes a second extender section 3713 which in a similar telescoping manner may extend the rearward section of the open platform. In this manner, the length of the open platform may vary up to 15 feet to accommodate a range of manufactured buildings from 75 feet to 90 feet long. Likewise, the width of the open platform may also vary up to 4 feet to accommodate a range of manufactured buildings in the range of 12 feet to 16 feet wide. As mentioned, a user will adjust the length and width by way of control devices such as a push button controller connected to related electronics and power source located in the control housing 3707 in a manner well known in the art of machine control. As previously discussed with regard to earlier embodiments, either hydraulic, electrical, or a combination of actuation techniques may be used without straying from the intended scope of the present invention. For example, the first and second extender sections may include one or more hydraulic pistons suitably connected by hydraulic lines to the control housing 3707 and which are arranged and configured to effectuate movement of the frame members, moving devices, and frame members as will be further described herein.

[0158] With regard to Figure 40, there is shown a front end view of the open platform as seen in Figure 37 with the manufactured building 3701 in place atop the open platform. Here, the wheels sets 3703, 3706 are shown in their extended (downward) positions typical oftransport. The open platform includes atransverse extender 3714 upon which are attached the gooseneck extension 3705 and the control housing 3707. The transverse extender 3714 serves as an actuation device to displace a first lateral frame element 3713 and a secondlateral frame element 3715 in opposite directions thereby widening or narrowing the width of the open platform in a telescoping manner. The transverse extender 3714 may include one or more hydraulic or electric pistons configured to effectuate lateral displacement by a user through the control housing 3707.

[0159] With regard to Figure 41 , there is shown a top view of the open platform as seen in Figure 37 without the manufactured building for added illustrative clarity. Here, it is apparent that at least four moving devices 3702a to 3702d are arranged on the outer periphery of the open platform frame. Likewise, at least two sets of wheels 3703, 3706 are also provided on the outer periphery of the open platform frame. In this manner, the entirety of the inner area of the open platform bounded by its frame is devoid of either wheels or moving devices. This configuration is therefore optimized for installation of a manufactured building onto a pile array such that the open platform may be backed over the pile array suitably assembled for a manufactured building’s inner steel beam supporting members (as previously discussed) without any interference from the elements of the open platform. In this particular configuration shown, it should be readily apparent that the length of the open platform is minimized as, for example, frame members 3710 and 3711 are in near abutment. Such minimized configuration is further illustrated with reference to Figure 42 where there is shown a side view of the open platform as seen in Figure 37 without the manufactured building. Here, the wheels 3703 are visible in a fully retracted position as are moving devices 3702a and 3702b. Likewise, the frame member members 3710 and 3711 as well as 3713 are each shown in there fully shortened configurations.

[0160] With reference to Figure 43, there is shown a front view of the open platform as seen in Figure 42 without the manufactured building and with the wheels in a fully retracted position. Here, it is also noted that the overall width of the open platform is fully minimized such that the first and second extender sections (3713 and 3715 visible previously in Figure 40) are no longer visible.

[0161] With regard to Figure 44, there is shown a side view of the open platform as seen in Figure 39. For illustrative clarity, the gooseneck extension is removed. It should be noted therefore that the gooseneck extension is configured to be removeable at the site of building installation. Advantageously, this removability feature further increases the maneuverability of the manufactured building 3701 while alighted upon the open platformin the fully extended position as shown in Figure 44 where the entirety of the frame members have been fully telescoped out. Here, the wheels are retracted while the moving devices are in their extended positions. In this configuration as shown, a user may control incremental movement of the manufactured building 3701 in any direction as enabled by the multidirectional capabilities of the moving devices 3702a, 3702b (and two not visible). The relative positioning of the moving devices is further shown by way of Figure 45a which is a front end view of open platform as shown in Figure 44 and Figure 45b which is a front end view of open platform as shown in Figure 44 but with the moving devices retracted. It should be understood that in Figure 45b, this configuration (with both wheels and moving devices fully retracted) would occur when the manufactured building is installed upon piles (not shown).

[0162] As previously discussed with regard to earlier embodiments, in the present embodiment there are included actuation elements in the wheel structures of the open platform. Such actuation elements provide retraction of the wheels of the open platform once the moving devices are fully deployed to support the open platform and given building carried atop the open platform. Likewise, the actuation elements serve to provide deployment of the wheels once the building is set down upon the pile array as previously discussed. The actuation elements with now be discussed with regard to Figures 46a and 46b which are left and right side views of a first embodiment of a wheel carriage used in the open platform of Figure 37. Here, there is provided a hydraulic piston 4506 pivotably attached to the frame member at frame pivot 4508 at one end thereof while also pivotably attached to a wheel linkage 4510 at a linkage pivot 4509. The wheel linkage 4510 itself is rotatable about a fixed pivot 4511 on the frame at one end of the wheel linkage 4510 near to the hydraulic piston 4506 and adjacent to the linkage pivot 4509. The wheel linkage 4510 is also rotatable about a movable pivot 4512. The movable pivot 4512 is configured to move linearly in the vertical direction such that extension of the piston 4506 causes a downward movement of the movable pivot 4512 which effectuates a lowering of the wheels. As may be seen from Figure 46a, the movable pivot 4512 is formed within the wheel carriage itself to which the wheels are affixed. In this manner, retraction of the piston 4506 causes a corresponding upward movement of the movable pivot 4512 which effectuates a raising of the wheels. Although only one wheel set is illustrated and discussed, it should be noted that all wheel sets function the same way and are configured with corresponding piston and pivotstructures thereby enabling their actuation. Moreover, all necessary hydraulic lines (not shown) and control thereof via the control housing is provided in a manner known in the hydraulics art and not further described herein. Furthermore, while a hydraulic piston is shown, it should be understood that any suitable actuation device that extends / retracts may be possible without straying from the intended scope of the present invention.

[0163] The actuation elements may therefor form a lifting assembly that may take a variety of forms though will effectively provide vertical displacement of the wheels by actuation of one or more actuating elements such as, but not limited to, hydraulic cylinders, electric actuators, or any suitable actuating mechanism. Likewise, the wheels may be locked in position (i.e., raised or lowered configurations) so as to enable use or disuse of the wheels.

[0164] As previously discussed with regard to earlier embodiments, in the present embodiment there are also included air suspension elements in the wheel structures of the open platform. Two differing embodiments of air suspension elements are disclosed and are applicable to all embodiments of the open platform. Figures 46a and 46b show a first implementation where an air suspension device 4503 is configured to dampen movement of wheels 4501, 4502 relative to the wheel linkage 4510. This may be accomplished by providing each set of wheels in a corresponding wheel carriage to which the wheel linkage is connected whereby the air suspension device is located between the movable pivot 4512 and the wheel carriage to effectively dampen force transmission from the wheels to the frame of the open platform. Each separate set of wheels of course is provided it own corresponding air suspension. In some implementations where the building carried may include structures which extend downward towards the wheels, a second alternative embodiment of the air suspension elements may be preferred. In such instances and to reduce the required clearance above the wheels when in the fully retracted position, the alternative embodiment may be used as shown by Figures 47a and 47b whereby the air suspension 4513 may be provided within the frame to dampen the wheels via their couplings of the frame and hydraulic actuator. This latter configuration thus provides for a lower profile of the fully retracted wheels.

[0165] With reference to Figure 48, there is shown a perspective view of a single moving device 3702b as shown extended in Figure 44. While at least four moving devices are illustrated in each embodiment of the open platform and located near to the comers ofthe generally rectangular footprint of the open platform, it should be noted that additional moving devices may be provided without straying from the intended scope of the present invention. Each moving device is identical such that only moving device 3702b will be described in detail. The moving device 3702b includes attachment plate 4703 for pivotable attachment to a connection plate affixed to the frame members of the open platform and a base 4704. Scissor actuators (described in more detail with regard to Figure 50b) are provided to selectively extend or retract the attachment plate 4703 relative to the base 4704. The moving device 3702b includes a pair of actuated rotating tracks 4701, 4702 attached to the base 4704 and which are controlled through the control housing by a user. In this manner, the moving devices collectively provide maneuverability to the open platform effectively in a 360 degree range of movement during relatively low speed movement of the open platform. It should be understood that the moving device may be hydraulically or electrically actuated though such details are well known in the actuation art and will not be further described herein. Any number of suitable electrical control wires and / or hydraulic lines may be provided and controlled through the control housing by a user.

[0166] With regard to Figures 49a and 49b, there is shown front and side views of a single moving device 3702b as seen in Figure 48 but in a fully retracted position. Here it may be seen that the moving devices are configured to be low-profile and unobtrusive when fully retracted. This is advantageous during transport of the given building during relatively high speed movement of the open platform. In this manner, the moving devices do not extend any lower than the frame members of the open platform when the moving devices are in their corresponding fully retracted positions. It should also be noted that the attachment plate 4703 is dimensioned (i.e., overall length and width) to allow complete freedom of movement while pivoting without interference with the frame of the open platform. This allows for the above mentioned maneuverability of the open platform by the moving devices in a 360 degree range of movement during relatively low speed movement of the open platform.

[0167] With regard to Figures 50a and 50b, there are shown side views of the single moving device as seen in Figure 48 in a fully retracted position and a fully extended position, respectively. Here, the constituent parts of the moving device 3702b are shown. As before, it should be readily apparent that while a single moving device 3702b is described, all moving devices used in the open platform are identical. From Figure 50b, the moving device3702b includes scissor actuators formed by a first scissor coupling 4901 pivotably connected to the attachment plate 4703 and a second scissor coupling 4902 pivotably connected to the base 4704. The first and second scissor couplings 4901, 4902 are connected at a pivot point 4903 located off center of the second scissor coupling 4902. Between the connection point of the first scissor coupling 4901 with the attachment plate 4703 and the end of the second scissor couplings 4901 remote from the attachment plate 4703, there is shown a hydraulic piston 4900. It should be understood that selective retraction and extension of the hydraulic piston 4900 results in a corresponding extension and retraction of the first and second scissor couplings 4901, 4902. In other words, the moving devices are piston driven scissor actuators. Effectively, this results elective retraction and extension of the tracks 4701 as illustrated in Figure 50a and 50b, respectively.

[0168] With regard to Figure 51, there is shown atop view of the open platform seen in Figure 41 without the gooseneck extension and in a fully lengthened configuration of 90 feet. Here, each of the four moving devices 3702a-3702d are shown in their locations generally near to the extreme four comers of the open platform. Placement in this manner ensures maximum maneuverability at relatively low speeds. The open platform of Figure 51 is shown in its fully extended position whereby the first extender section 3712 separating the frame members 3710 and 3711 and the second extender section 3719 separating the frame members 3716 and 3718 are at their maximum extension. Similarly, first and second rear extender sections 3713, 3721 are shown in full extension such that the wheel set 3703 is at a maximum spacing from the moving device 3702a and the wheel set 3706 is at a maximum spacing from the moving device 3702d. As previously mentioned, the extender sections are actuated in their linear extension and retraction by hydraulic actuators (not shown) in a manner will understood in the hydraulics art. In contrast to Figure 50, Figure 52 is a top view of the open platform shown in Figure 41 without the gooseneck extension and in a fully shortened configuration of 75 feet. Therefore, the length of the overall open platform may be varied according to the given building size and typically within the range of 75 to 90 feet in length. When combined with the width variability discussed with regard to Figure 40, this results in the capability of the open platform to be reduced in size to 12 feet wide by 75 feet long which is, in most instances, a trailer dimension suitable for normal road transport without special oversized load constraints.

[0169] The present disclosure also provides for the capability that one or more frame sections may be completely separated on site. For example, the frame sections 3710 and 3716 in Figure 51 may be completely removed from their respective extender sections, respectively. Likewise, the extender sections 3713 and 3721 at the rear of the open platform may be completely removed from the frame sections rearward of the wheels 3703, 3706. This is useful, for example, when removal of the open platform from a given installation site may become complicated or impossible thereby necessitating selective disassembly of one or more frame members of the open platform in an effective manner with minimal tools and minimal effort.

[0170] In terms of width variation as previously shown and described with regard to Figure 40, there is provided a close-up cutaway detail schematic in Figure 53 showing a portion of another transverse telescoping widening mechanism for the embodiment shown in Figure 37. The transverse telescoping widening mechanism is formed by the section of frame that extends the width of the open platform and is connected to two parallel frame sections which include the wheels. This represents the front right comer of the open platform where the second lateral frame element 3715 abuts frame member 3710. Here, the transverse telescoping widening mechanism includes a sliding high strength steel member that forms the second lateral frame element 3715 and which telescopes into and out of the adjacent transverse extender 3714. It should be understood that while only one comer detail is shown and described, likewise the left front comer including the first lateral frame element 3713 (seen in Figure 40) is formed in the same manner as described here. As previously discussed with regard to Figure 40, The transverse extender 3714 serves as an actuation device to displace a first lateral frame element 3713 and a second lateral frame element 3715 in opposite directions thereby widening or narrowing the width of the open platform in a telescoping manner. The transverse extender 3714 may include one or more hydraulic or electric pistons (not shown in the schematic of Figure 53) configured to effectuate lateral displacement by a user through the control housing 3707.

[0171] With continued reference to Figure 53, the frame member 3710 is seen to include a locking piston 5300 which selectively actuates a locking pin 5301. The locking piston 5300 is actuatable via the control housing 3707 and is used to lock in place a corresponding section of frame with by passing the locking pin through a corresponding aperture. This lockingaction is better described with regard to Figure 54. Figure 54 is a close-up cutaway detail schematic of a frame locking piston 5300 for the embodiment shown in Figure 37. The frame locking piston 5300 selectively actuates a locking pin (hidden within the piston) and which, when activated, extends itself through the corresponding aperture 5302 thereby precluding sliding movement between frame members 3710 and 3712. It should be noted that a plurality of locking pistons may be provided in suitable locations along telescoping elements (i.e., different sections of frame) of the open platform to ensure the frame is rigidly retained in its desired configurations (i.e., long, short, wide, narrow, partially disassembled, etc.).

[0172] Having thus shown and described an embodiment of the present invention with regard to transport and maneuvering of manufactured buildings, there will be shown and described another embodiment of the present invention with regard to transport and maneuvering of modular buildings.

[0173] With reference to Figure 55, there is shown a front right view of an open platform in accordance with another embodiment 5500 shown in conjunction with regard to transport and maneuvering of a modular building 5501. As in previously described embodiments, the open platform includes a set of moving devices (hidden from view) along with a set of wheels 5503 (one set hidden from view). However, in contrast to the previous embodiment of Figures 37 et seq. directed towards transport and maneuvering of a manufactured building, this embodiment directed to modular buildings requires that the wheels and moving devices are located within the perimeter of the open platform. This is best seen with additional reference to Figure 56 which shows a right side view of the open platform as shown in Figure 55 without the modular building. In this embodiment, the open platform includes a gooseneck extension 5505 for attachment to a tow vehicle (not shown). As before, the open platform includes a control housing 5507. The control housing 5507 may include all electronics, power, and user control devices capable of enabling a user to operate all aspects of the open platform. Such aspects may include lengthening or shortening the frame members 5510, 5511 in conjunction with extenders 5512, raising or lowering the wheel sets 5503, 5506 located within the frame of the open platform, and raising or lowering along with maneuvering the sets of moving devices 5702a- 5702d also located within the frame of the open platform. Widening or narrowing the open platform will also be discussed with further reference to the drawings.

[0174] With regard to Figure 57, there is shown a right side view of the open platform as seen in Figure 55 with the modular building 5501 resting atop the open platform. Here, the open platform is shown in a lengthened configuration whereby the frame members 5510 and 5511 are distanced from one another in a telescoping manner by an internal piston- driven first extender section 5512. Likewise, the rearward (rightmost) section of the open platform itself includes a second extender section 5513 which in a similar telescoping manner may extend the rearward section of the open platform. In this manner, the length of the open platform may vary up to 15 feet to accommodate a range of modular buildings from 75 feet to 90 feet long. Likewise, the width of the open platform may also vary up to 4 feet to accommodate a range of modular buildings in the range of 12 feet to 16 feet wide. As mentioned, a user will adjust the length and width by way of control devices such as a push button controller connected to related electronics and power source located in the control housing 5507 in a manner well known in the art of machine control. As previously discussed with regard to earlier embodiments, either hydraulic, electrical, or a combination of actuation techniques may be used without straying from the intended scope of the present invention. For example, the first and second extender sections may include one or more hydraulic pistons suitably connected by hydraulic lines to the control housing 5507 and which are arranged and configured to effectuate movement of the frame members, moving devices, and frame members as will be further described herein.

[0175] With regard to Figure 58, there is shown a front end view of the open platform as seen in Figure 55 with the modular building 5501 in place atop the open platform. Here, the wheels sets 5503, 5506 are shown in their extended (downward) positions typical of transport. The open platform includes a transverse extender 5514 upon which are attached the gooseneck extension 5505 and the control housing 5507. The transverse extender 5514 serves as an actuation device to displace a first lateral frame element 5513 and a second lateral frame element 5515 in opposite directions thereby widening or narrowing the width of the open platform in a telescoping manner. The transverse extender 5514 may include one or more hydraulic or electric pistons configured to effectuate lateral displacement by a user through the control housing 5507. In this embodiment directed to modular buildings, additional support may be provided in the form of wing brackets 5600 which are arranged at intervals along the outer periphery of the open platform as further discussed hereinbelow.

[0176] With regard to Figure 59, there is shown a top view of the open platform as seen in Figure 55 without the modular building for added illustrative clarity. Likewise, Figure 60 is a side view of the open platform as shown in Figure 55 without the modular building and with the wheels in a fully retracted position. Here, it is apparent that at least four moving devices 5702a to 5702d are arranged on the outer periphery of the open platform frame. Likewise, at least two sets of wheels 5503, 5506 are also provided on the inner periphery of the open platform frame. In this manner, the entirety of the outer area of the open platform bounded by its frame is devoid of either wheels or moving devices. This configuration is therefore optimized for installation of a modular building onto a pile array such that the open platform may be backed between rows of pile arrays suitably assembled for a modular building’s wooden frame members (as previously discussed) without any interference from the elements of the open platform. In this particular configuration shown, it should be readily apparent that the length of the open platform is minimized as, for example, frame members 5510 and 5511 are in near abutment. Such minimized configuration is furthered by folding backward each of the plurality of wing brackets 5600. Thus, the fully retracted configuration as shown is reduced in length and width in a manner suitable for high speed transport such as during towing to a modular building factory to obtain a modular building or from a work site after delivery and install of a modular building. In such fully retracted configuration with all wing brackets 5600 secured in their retracted positions, the minimum dimensions for a trailer without necessitating a wide load escort may therefore be attained.

[0177] With reference to Figure 61, there is shown a front view of the open platform as seen in Figure 60 without the manufactured building and with the wheels in a fully retracted position through with wing bracket 5600 shown deployed for illustration. Here, it is also noted that the overall width of the open platform is fully minimized such that the first and second extender sections (5513 and 5515 visible previously in Figure 58) are no longer visible.

[0178] With regard to Figure 62, there is shown a side view of the open platform as seen in Figure 57. For illustrative clarity, the gooseneck extension is removed. It should be noted therefore that the gooseneck extension is configured to be removeable at the site of building installation. Advantageously, this removability feature further increases the maneuverability of the modular building 5501 while alighted upon the open platform in thefully extended position where the entirety of the frame members have been fully telescoped out. Here, the visible wheels 5503 are retracted while the visible moving devices 5702a, 5702b are in their extended positions. In this configuration as shown, a user may control incremental movement of the modular building 5501 in any direction as enabled by the multi -directional capabilities of the moving devices 5702a, 5702b (and two not visible). The relative positioning of the moving devices 5702a, 5702c is further shown by way of Figure 63a which is a front end view of open platform as shown in Figure 62 and Figure 63b which is a front end view of open platform as shown in Figure 62 but with the moving devices retracted. It should be understood that in Figure 63b, this configuration (with both wheels and moving devices fully retracted) would occur when the modular building is installed upon piles at its periphery (not shown).

[0179] As previously shown and described with regard to earlier embodiments, the present embodiment directed to modular building transport and maneuvering also includes actuation elements in the wheel structures of the open platform. Such actuation elements provide retraction of the wheels of the open platform once the moving devices are fully deployed to support the open platform and given building carried atop the open platform. Likewise, the actuation elements serve to provide deployment of the wheels once the building is set down upon the pile array as previously discussed. The actuation elements having been discussed with regard to Figures 46a and 46b are identical to those used to raise and lower the wheel structures of the embodiment in Figures 55 et seq. and will not be discussed in detail. Figures 64a and 64b are front and side views of a single moving device in accordance with the second embodiment of Figure 55 and in a fully retracted position;

[0180] As previously shown and described with regard to earlier embodiments, the present embodiment directed to modular building transport and maneuvering also includes air suspension elements in the wheel structures of the open platform. Two differing embodiments of air suspension elements have previously been disclosed and are applicable to all embodiments of the open platform including the present embodiment directed to modular building transport and maneuvering and are not further discussed herein.

[0181] With reference to Figures 64a and 64b, there are shown front and side views of a single moving device 5702b in accordance with the second embodiment of Figure 55 and in a fully retracted position. As previously shown and described with regard to earlierembodiments, the moving devices of present embodiment directed to modular building transport and maneuvering have been previously described with reference to Figures 48, 49a and 49b and will not be further described here. Figure 64b illustrates the wing bracket 5600 in close up showing its support surface contiguous with the top of the frame 5510 of the open platform along with a raised edge at its extreme lateral end which assists in retaining the modular building during transport and maneuvering. Here, it may also be readily apparent that when retracted, the moving device 5702b is advantageously substantially hidden behind the frame 5510. This is particularly useful during high speed transport to avoid damaging the moving device for example via road debris.

[0182] With regard to Figure 65, there is shown a top view of the open platform seen in Figure 59 without the gooseneck extension and in a fully lengthened configuration of 90 feet. Here, each of the four moving devices 5702a-5702d are shown in their locations generally near to the extreme four comers of the open platform. Placement in this manner ensures maximum maneuverability at relatively low speeds. The open platform is shown in its fully extended position whereby the first extender section 5512 separating the frame members 5510 and 5511 and the second extender section 5519 separating the frame members 5516 and 5518 are at their maximum extension. Similarly, first and second rear extender sections 5513, 5521 are shown in full extension such that the wheel set 5503 is at a maximum spacing from the moving device 5702a and the wheel set 5506 is at a maximum spacing from the moving device 5702d. As shown, it should be noted that the wing brackets 5600 are not provided on the extender sections 5512, 5513, 5519, 5521 as those section telescopically retract into their corresponding frame members as seen with regard to Figure 66 which is a top view of the open platform shown in Figure 59 without the gooseneck extension and in a fully retracted configuration though including identical elements as already shown and described with reference to Figure 65.

[0183] As before with the regard to earlier embodiments, the present embodiment directed to modular building transport and maneuverability is provides for the capability that one or more frame sections may be completely separated on site. For example, the frame sections 5510 and 5516 in Figure 65 may be completely removed from their respective extender sections, respectively. Likewise, the extender sections 5513 and 5521 at the rear of the open platform may be completely removed from the frame sections rearward of thewheels 5503, 5506. Likewise, as before with the regard to earlier embodiments, the present embodiment directed to modular building transport and maneuverability may include a transverse telescoping mechanism and locking pistons as previously shown and described with regard Figure 53.

[0184] While the open platform for moving structures has been discussed hereinabove with regard to transport and maneuverability of buildings and in particular modular and manufactured buildings, it should be readily apparent that the open platform in accordance with the present disclosure may equally be useful and applicable to moving any other type of structures including, but not limited to, cargo containers, containerized homes, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), or any other similar product that needs to be delivered or otherwise moved from one location to another.

[0185] The embodiments described above are intended to be exemplary only. The scope of the invention is therefore intended to be limited solely by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An open platform for transporting and maneuvering a structure, the open platform comprising: a frame for accepting the building structure thereupon, the frame having a width and a length; a plurality of wheels retractably mounted to the frame; a coupling mechanism attached to the frame at a front end of the frame, the coupling mechanism configured for attachment to a tow vehicle; a plurality of moving devices retractably mounted to the frame, each of the plurality of moving devices including tracks; a control housing including a power source for enabling vertical movement of the plurality of wheels, vertical movement of the plurality of moving devices, and substantially horizontal movement of the tracks.

2. The open platform as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the frame includes two elongated sections parallel and a transverse telescoping widening mechanism formed between the two parallel sections.

3. The open platform as claimed in Claim 2, wherein the plurality of moving devices are located at opposite ends of each one of the two parallel frame sections.

4. The open platform as claimed in Claim 3, wherein each one of the two parallel frame sections are adjustable in a telescoping manner to adjust the length of the frame.

5. The open platform as claimed in Claim 4, wherein the transverse telescoping widening mechanism is adjustable in a telescoping manner to adjust the width of the frame.

6. The open platform as claimed in Claim 5, wherein the transverse telescoping widening mechanism includes at least two telescopic members attached at first ends thereof to the coupling mechanism and attached at second ends thereof to corresponding front ends of the two parallel frame sections.

7. The open platform as claimed in Claim 5, wherein the transverse telescoping widening mechanism includes a transverse extender to which the coupling mechanism is removably attached, a first lateral frame element attached to one of the two parallel frame sections, and a second lateral frame element attached to another of the two parallel frame sections, wherein the transverse extender is actuatable to extend the first lateral frame element and the second lateral frame element in opposite directions.

8. The open platform as claimed in Claim 7, wherein the control housing includes hydraulics, the two parallel frame sections each include an extender section, and the extender sections and transverse extender include a plurality of hydraulic actuators controlled by a user via the control housing.

9. The open platform as claimed in Claim 8, wherein the plurality of wheels are movable between a first wheel position engaging a ground surface and a second wheel position retracted adjacent to the frame.

10. The open platform as claimed in Claim 9, wherein the plurality of wheels are dampened relative to the frame by respective air suspension elements.

11. The open platform as claimed in Claim 10, wherein when the wheels are engaging the ground surface, the open platform is capable of moving at relatively high speed.

12. The open platform as claimed in Claim 11, wherein when only the tracks are engaging the ground surface, the open platform is movable only at relatively low speed.

13. The open platform as claimed in Claim 12, wherein each of the plurality of moving devices are pivotably mounted to the frame to provide rotation in a substantially horizontal plane.

14. The open platform as claimed in Claim 13, wherein each of the plurality of moving devices is a piston driven scissor actuator.

15. The open platform as claimed in Claim 14, wherein each of the plurality of moving devices and each of the plurality of wheels are located at opposite sides of the frame.

16. The open platform as claimed in Claim 15, wherein each of the plurality of moving devices and each of the plurality of wheels are located at an outer periphery of the frame.

17. The open platform as claimed in Claim 16, wherein the structure is a manufactured building.

18. The open platform as claimed in Claim 14, wherein each of the plurality of moving devices and each of the plurality of wheels are located at an inner periphery of the frame.

19. The open platform as claimed in Claim 18, wherein the frame further includes a plurality of winged brackets mounted on an outer periphery of the frame.

20. The open platform as claimed in Claim 19, wherein the structure is a modular building.

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