Modular structural element and method of assembling structural elements

Abstract

A modular structural element (1) comprising a central portion (2), a perimeter portion (3) surrounding at least in part the central portion (2) and adapted to engage a corresponding perimeter portion (3) of another structural element (1) is described. The perimeter portion (3) comprises an inner region (3a) facing towards the central portion (2) and an outer region (3b) opposite to the central portion (2). The perimeter portion (3) further comprises a first shaped profile (4) extending at the inner region (3a) along a first part (Z1) of the extension of the structural element (1) along an axis (Z), a second shaped profile (5) extending at the outer region (3b) along a second part (Z2) of the extension of the structural element (1) along the axis (Z) and a third shaped profile (6) extending at the outer region (3b) along a third part (Z3) of the extension of the structural element (1) along the axis (Z).

Description

[0001] "MODULAR STRUCTURAL ELEMENT AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLING STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS"

[0002] Cross-Reference To Related Applications

[0003] This patent application claims priority from Italian patent application no. 102023000028395 filed on December 29, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] Technical Field

[0005] The invention relates to a modular structural element for a structural assembly and a structural assembly comprising a plurality of structural elements.

[0006] The present invention also relates to a method of assembling structural elements.

[0007] Context

[0008] Structural elements for the building of walls, ceilings or other constructions in construction industry, for example bricks or metal section bars, have been known since ancient times.

[0009] Many of the known structural elements are assembled with each other permanently, for example by means of chemical binders or welding processes. This makes the constructions made by means of these structural elements hard to disassemble or totally impossible to disassemble, other than through destructive demolition operations.

[0010] In light of the above, there is a need to obtain a structural element that is usable in a versatile and demountable manner for the construction of building works.

[0011] An object of the invention is to respond to the above need, preferably in a simple and economical way.

[0012] Description of the Invention The object is achieved by a modular structural element and by a method of assembling structural elements according to the attached independent claims. The dependent claims define particular embodiments of the invention.

[0013] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0014] Four embodiments of the invention are described below for a better understanding of it, by way of non-limiting example and with reference to the attached drawings, wherein:

[0015] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a structural element according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0016] Figures 2 and 3 show two structural elements according to Figure 1, respectively in a disassembled configuration and in an assembled configuration along a first direction;

[0017] Figure 4 shows two structural elements according to Figure 1 assembled with each other along a second direction;

[0018] Figure 5a is a perspective view from above of the structural element of Figure 1;

[0019] Figure 5b is a perspective view from below of the structural element of Figure 1;

[0020] Figure 6 shows a plurality of structural elements according to Figure 1 assembled with each other to form a slab and a beam;

[0021] Figure 7 shows a plurality of structural elements according to Figure 1 assembled with each other to form two walls at an angle to each other and a pillar;

[0022] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a structural assembly comprising a plurality of structural elements according to Figure 1;

[0023] Figure 9 shows two portions of two structural elements according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 10 shows two portions of two structural elements according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 11 shows two portions of two structural elements according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Embodiments of the Invention

[0026] In Figure 1, the number 1 is used to indicate, in its entirety, a structural element for building constructions.

[0027] As described in detail below, the structural element 1 can be assembled with further structural elements 1 to form a structural assembly 50. Consequently, the structural element 1 is of the modular type.

[0028] It is possible to associate with the structural element 1 a reference system comprising:

[0029] - an axis X;

[0030] - an axis Y, which is transversal to the axis X; and

[0031] - an axis Z, which is transversal to the axes X and Y.

[0032] In detail, the axis Y is orthogonal to the axis X and the axis Z is orthogonal to the axes X and Y.

[0033] Advantageously, the structural element 1 comprises:

[0034] - a central portion 2;

[0035] - a perimeter portion 3, which surrounds the central portion 2 parallel to the axis X and parallel to the axis Y and which is adapted to engage a corresponding perimeter portion 3 of one or more further structural elements 1.

[0036] The perimeter portion 3 comprises, in turn (Figure 4):

[0037] - an inner region 3a facing towards the central portion 2;

[0038] - an outer region 3b arranged opposed to the central portion 2 and facing towards the outside of the structural element 1;

[0039] - a first shaped profile 4 extending at the inner region 3a along a first part Z1 of the extension of the structural element 1 parallel to the axis Z;

[0040] - a second shaped profile 5 extending at the outer region 3b along a second part Z2 of the extension of the structural element 1 parallel to the axis Z; and

[0041] - a third shaped profile 6 extending at the outer region 3b along a third part Z3 of the extension of the structural element 1 parallel to the axis Z.

[0042] In detail, the structural element 1 comprises an end la and an end lb opposite to each other along the axis Z. The structural element 1 further comprises an end 1g and an end Ih opposite to each other along the axis X.

[0043] The first shaped profile 4 extends at the end la and the third shaped profile 6 extends at the end lb.

[0044] The second shaped profile 5, furthermore, extends at the end la. In detail, proceeding from the end la to the end lb parallel to the axis Z, the second shaped profile 5 and the third shaped profile 6 are arranged in succession with each other. In further detail, the second shaped profile 5 and the third shaped profile 6 are adjacent to each other parallel to the axis Z. Specifically, the sum of the extension of the second part Z2 and the extension of the third part Z3 along the axis Z is equal to the total extension of the structural element 1 parallel to the axis Z.

[0045] In addition, the first shaped profile 4 and the second shaped profile 5 extend along a common stretch of the extension of the structural element 1 parallel to the axis Z, respectively on the side of the inner region 3a and on the side of the outer region 3b.

[0046] In the embodiment shown, the structural element 1 has the shape of a right parallelepiped, the edges of which extend parallel to the axes X, Y and Z. In detail, the structural element 1 further comprises (Figure 4):

[0047] - a base face 1c arranged on the side of the end la;

[0048] - a base face Id arranged on the side of the end lb;

[0049] - two side faces le parallel to each other and to the axis X and extending between the base faces 1c and Id parallel to the axis Z; and

[0050] - two side faces If parallel to each other and to the axis Y, extending between the base faces 1c and Id parallel to the axis Z and between the side faces le parallel to the axis Y.

[0051] In further detail, the base faces 1c and Id are flat and directed perpendicularly to the axis Z. The side faces le and the side faces If are also flat or substantially flat.

[0052] In addition, one of the faces If extends at the end 1g and the other of the two faces If extends at the end Ih.

[0053] As shown in Figure 1, the perimeter portion 3 extends at the side faces le and If.

[0054] In the embodiment shown, furthermore, the extension of the side faces le parallel to the axis X is greater than the extension of the side faces If parallel to the axis Y. Preferably but not necessarily, the extension of the side faces le parallel to the axis X is equal to double the extension of the side faces If parallel to the axis Y.

[0055] It is also possible to define a centre of gravity G of the structural element 1 (Figure 1).

[0056] As shown in Figure 4, the central portion 2 comprises a base face 2c arranged on the side of the end la. Said base face 2c is flat and distanced from the base face 1c along the axis Z. In detail, the perimeter portion 3 protrudes beyond the base face 2c as far as the end la along the axis Z. In other words, the base face 2c is retracted with respect to the end la along the axis Z.

[0057] In particular, the distance between the base face 2c and the base face 1c along the axis Z corresponds with the extension of the third part Z1 along the axis Z. As shown in Figure 5B, the first shaped profile 4 comprises:

[0058] - a plurality of projections 4a, that protrude parallel to the axis Y towards the central portion 2 and are distanced from each other parallel to the axis X;

[0059] - a plurality of recesses 4b interposed each between a pair of projections 4a parallel to the axis X;

[0060] - a plurality of projections 4c, that protrude parallel to the axis X towards the central portion 2 and are distanced from each other parallel to the axis Y; and

[0061] - a plurality of recesses 4d interposed each between a pair of projections 4c parallel to the axis Y.

[0062] In detail, the projections 4a and the recesses 4b extend at the faces le; the projections 4c and the recesses 4d extend at the faces If.

[0063] Preferably, furthermore, the first shaped profile 4 completely surrounds the central portion 2 parallel to the axis X and parallel to the axis Y.

[0064] The third shaped profile 6 comprises (Figure 5A):

[0065] - a plurality of projections 6a, that protrude parallel to the axis Y from the opposite side to the central portion 2 and are distanced from each other parallel to the axis X;

[0066] - a plurality of recesses 6b interposed each between a pair of projections 6a parallel to the axis X;

[0067] - a plurality of projections 6c, that protrude parallel to the axis X from the opposite side to the central portion 2 and are distanced from each other parallel to the axis Y; and

[0068] - a plurality of recesses 6d interposed each between a pair of projections 6c parallel to the axis Y. In detail, the projections 6a and the recesses 6b extend at the faces le; the projections 6c and the recesses 6d extend at the faces If.

[0069] Preferably, furthermore, the third shaped profile 6 completely surrounds the central portion 2 parallel to the axis X and parallel to the axis Y.

[0070] The projections 4a have a shape corresponding with the recesses 6b and the recesses 4b have a shape corresponding with the projections 6a; the projections 4c have a shape corresponding with the recesses 6d and the recesses 4d have a shape corresponding with the projections 6c.

[0071] In detail, the projections 4a, 4c, 6a, 6c and the recesses 4b, 4d, 6b, 6d have a rectangular shape on a perpendicular plane to the axis Z.

[0072] In other words, the set formed of the projections 4a and the relative recesses 4b has the shape of a square wave on a perpendicular plane to the axis Z. The same applies to the projections 4c and to the relative recesses 4d, to the projections 6a and to the relative recesses 6b, to the projections 6c and to the relative recesses 6c.

[0073] The second shaped profile 5 also comprises (Figure 5A)

[0074] - a plurality of projections 5a, that protrude parallel to the axis Y from the opposite side to the central portion 2 and are distanced from each other parallel to the axis X;

[0075] - a plurality of recesses 5b interposed each between a pair of projections 5a parallel to the axis X;

[0076] - a plurality of projections 5c, that protrude parallel to the axis X from the opposite side to the central portion 2 and are distanced from each other parallel to the axis Y; and

[0077] - a plurality of recesses 5d interposed each between a pair of projections 5c parallel to the axis Y. In detail, the projections 5a, 5c and the recesses 5b, 5d have a rectangular shape on a perpendicular plane to the axis Z.

[0078] In other words, the set formed of the projections 5a and the relative recesses 5b has the shape of a square wave on a perpendicular plane to the axis Z. The same applies to the set formed by the projections 5c and by the relative recesses 5d.

[0079] In further detail, the projections 5a and the recesses 5b extend at the faces le; the projections 5c and the recesses 5d extend at the faces If.

[0080] Preferably, furthermore, the second shaped profile 5 completely surrounds the central portion 2 parallel to the axis X and parallel to the axis Y.

[0081] In the embodiment shown, each projection 4a on the side of the inner region 3b coincides with a recess 5b on the side of the outer region 3a; each recess 4b on the side of the inner region 3b coincides with a projection 5a on the side of the outer region 3a. In other words, the recesses of the perimeter portion 3 on the side of the inner region 3a correspond with projections of the perimeter portion 3 on the side of the outer region 3b and vice versa.

[0082] In addition, each projection 6a is aligned with a respective projection 5a parallel to the axis X and each recess 6b is aligned with a respective recess 5b parallel to the axis X; each projection 6c is aligned with a respective projection 5c parallel to the axis Y and each recess 6d is aligned with a respective recess 5d parallel to the axis Y.

[0083] The distance of the second shaped profile 5 from the centre of gravity G is greater than the distance of the third shaped profile 6 from the centre of gravity G. In detail, at the faces le, the second shaped profile 5 extends more externally than the third shaped profile 6 with respect to the central portion 2 parallel to the axis Y; at the faces If, the second shaped profile 5 extends more externally than the third shaped profile 6 with respect to the central portion 2 parallel to the axis X.

[0084] In greater detail, each projection 5a, furthermore, is distanced from the respective projection 6a parallel to the axis Y and each recess 5b is distanced from the respective recess 6b parallel to the axis Y. Each projection 5c is distanced from the respective projection 6c parallel to the axis X and each recess 5d is distanced from the respective recess 6d parallel to the axis X.

[0085] Consequently, the second shaped profile 5 and the third shaped profile 6 define a step 7 of the structural element 1 (Figure 1). In detail, the step 7 is defined by the end of the third shaped profile 6 opposite to the end lb parallel to the axis Z and by the end of the second shaped profile 5 opposite to the end la parallel to the axis Z.

[0086] As shown in Figure 1, furthermore, the second portion Z2 has a greater extension than the third portion Z3 parallel to the axis Z. Preferably, the second portion Z2 is from six to ten times bigger than the third portion Z3 parallel to the axis Z.

[0087] The structural element 1 further comprises a coupling portion 8, which comprises, in turn, a fourth shaped profile 80 and a fifth shaped profile 81, which extend at the base face Id and which are distanced from each other parallel to the axis X. Preferably, furthermore, the fourth shaped profile 80 and the fifth shaped profile 81 are parallel to each other and to the axis Y (Figure 1).

[0088] In addition, the fourth shaped profile 80 and the fifth shaped profile 81 extend along the third part Z3 of the extension of the structural element 1 parallel to the axis Z.

[0089] In detail, the fourth shaped profile 80 comprises (Figure 1):

[0090] - a plurality of projections 80a, that protrude parallel to the axis X towards the fifth shaped profile 81 and are distanced from each other parallel to the axis Y; and

[0091] - a plurality of recesses 80b interposed each between a pair of projections 80a parallel to the axis Y.

[0092] The fifth shaped profile 81 comprises (Figure 1):

[0093] - a plurality of projections 81a, that protrude parallel to the axis X towards the fourth shaped profile 80 and are distanced from each other parallel to the axis Y; and

[0094] - a plurality of recesses 81b interposed each between a pair of projections 81a parallel to the axis Y.

[0095] Each projection 80a is aligned with a relative recess 81b and each recess 80b is aligned with a relative projection 81a parallel to the axis Y.

[0096] In further detail, the coupling portion 8 extends to half the extension of the structural element 1 parallel to the axis X. Therefore, the coupling portion 8 divides the structural element 1 into two halves 100 and 101. In detail, the half 100 is arranged on the side of the end 1g and the half 101 is arranged on the side of the end Ih.

[0097] The structural element 1 further comprises a coupling portion 9, which comprises, in turn, a sixth shaped profile 82 and a seventh shaped profile 83, which extend at the end la and which are distanced from each other parallel to the axis X. Preferably, furthermore, the sixth shaped profile 82 and the seventh shaped profile 83 are parallel to each other and to the axis Y (Figure 4).

[0098] In detail, the sixth shaped profile 82 comprises: - a plurality of projections 82a, that protrude parallel to the axis X towards the end 1g and are distanced from each other parallel to the axis Y; and

[0099] - a plurality of recesses 82b interposed each between a pair of projections 82a parallel to the axis Y.

[0100] The seventh shaped profile 83 comprises:

[0101] - a plurality of projections 83a, that protrude parallel to the axis X towards the end Ih and are distanced from each other parallel to the axis Y; and

[0102] - a plurality of recesses 83b interposed each between a pair of projections 83a parallel to the axis Y.

[0103] The coupling portion 9, furthermore, is at least partially aligned with the coupling portion 8 parallel to the axis Z.

[0104] Each projection 82a is aligned with a relative recess 83b and each recess 82b is aligned with a relative projection 83a parallel to the axis Y.

[0105] The projections 80a have a shape corresponding with the recesses 82b and the recesses 80b have a shape corresponding with the projections 82a; the projections 81a have a shape corresponding with the recesses 83b and the recesses 81b have a shape corresponding with the projections 83a.

[0106] In detail, the projections 80a, 81a, 82a, 83a and the recesses 80b, 81d, 82b, 83d have a rectangular shape on a perpendicular plane to the axis Z.

[0107] In other words, the set formed of the projections 80a and the relative recesses 80b has the shape of a square wave on a perpendicular plane to the axis Z. The same applies to the projections 81a and to the relative recesses 81b, to the projections 82a and to the relative recesses 82b, to the projections 83a and to the relative recesses 83b. Furthermore, the fourth shaped profile 80 has a shape corresponding with the first shaped profile 4, with the second shaped profile 5, with the sixth shaped profile 82 and with the seventh shaped profile 83; the fifth shaped profile 81 has a shape corresponding with the first shaped profile 4, with the second shaped profile 5, with the sixth shaped profile 82 and with the seventh shaped profile 83. The sixth shaped profile 82 has a shape corresponding with the third shaped profile 6, with the fourth shaped profile 80 and with the fifth shaped profile 81; the seventh shaped profile 83 has a shape corresponding with the third shaped profile 6, with the fourth shaped profile 80 and with the fifth shaped profile 81.

[0108] In other words, the coupling portion 8 is adapted to be engaged by the coupling portion 9 of another structural element 1, or by the perimeter portion 3 of another structural element 1.

[0109] The central portion 2 further comprises ten holes 11 extending parallel to the axis Z and adapted to be crossed by respective tie rod elements 60 (Figure 8).

[0110] In the embodiment shown, five of the holes 11 are arranged at the half 100 and five of the holes 11 are arranged at the half 101. In greater detail, for each half 100, 101, one of the five holes 11 is central, i.e. it extends at the geometric centre of the respective half 100, 101, and the other four holes 11 are arranged at a respective vertex of a rhombus lying on a perpendicular plane to the axis Z. The central hole 11 is also arranged at the centre of the rhombus.

[0111] Preferably, furthermore, the holes 11 are cylindrical.

[0112] The tie rod elements 60 engage all or only some of the holes 11, depending on the function attributed to the structural assembly 50 and the loads that the structural assembly 50 is called upon to support.

[0113] As shown in Figures 4 and 5B, the central portion 2 comprises ten cylindrical bodies 13 extending between the end la and the base face 2c parallel to the axis Z. Each cylindrical body 13 comprises a respective hole 11.

[0114] Figure 8 shows a structural assembly 50 comprising a plurality of structural elements 1 coupled to each other parallel to the respective axes Z and a plurality of tie rod elements 60 accommodated in the holes 11 of the structural elements 1 aligned with each other and extending parallel to the axes Z.

[0115] In detail, each tie rod element 60 comprises:

[0116] - a rod 61 comprising, in turn, respective threaded axial ends 61a, 61b; and

[0117] - a threaded bushing 62 comprising, in turn, respective axial ends 62a, 62b.

[0118] In greater detail, each tie rod element 60 is adapted to be fixed to a respective tie rod element 60 aligned with it parallel to the axis Z. Specifically, each threaded bushing 62 is adapted to be screwed onto the axial end 61a of a first rod at the axial end 62b and onto the axial end 61b of a second rod aligned with the first rod parallel to the axis Z at the axial end 62a.

[0119] The central portion 2 further comprises eight holes 12 extending parallel to the third axis Z and adapted to accommodate electric cables and / or hydraulic pipes not shown (Figure 1).

[0120] In detail, the central portion 2 comprises two rows of holes 12 aligned with each other parallel to the axis X. In addition, the two rows are distanced from each other parallel to the axis Y.

[0121] In the embodiment shown, four of the holes 12 are arranged at the half 100 and four of the holes 12 are arranged at the half 101.

[0122] Preferably, furthermore, the holes 12 are cylindrical.

[0123] As shown in Figures 4 and 5B, the central portion 2 comprises eight cylindrical bodies 14 extending between the end lb and the base face 2c parallel to the axis Z. Each cylindrical body 14 comprises a respective hole 12.

[0124] In detail, the central portion 2 comprises two rows of cylindrical bodies 14 aligned with each other parallel to the axis X. In addition, the two rows of cylindrical bodies 14 are distanced from each other parallel to the axis Y.

[0125] The central portion 2 also comprises a plurality of ribbings 15 extending between the cylindrical bodies 13 and 14 parallel to the axis Z and / or between the cylindrical bodies 13 and 14 and the perimeter portion 3 and having a stiffening function (Figure 5B). In detail, each ribbing 15 comprises a flat panel.

[0126] Figures 2 and 3 show a structural assembly 50 comprising a first structural element 1 and a second structural element 1, respectively distanced from each other parallel to the axis Z and coupled to each other parallel to the axis Z. In the structural assembly 50 shown in Figure 3, the first shaped profile 4 of the first structural element 1 and the third shaped profile 6 of the second structural element 1 are coupled to each other.

[0127] In detail, at the faces le, each projection 4a of the first structural element 1 engages a respective recess 6b of the second structural element 1 and each recess 4b of the first structural element 1 engages a respective projection 6a of the second structural element 1. At the faces If, each projection 4c of the first structural element 1 engages a respective recess 6d of the second structural element 1 and each recess 4d engages a respective projection 6c of the second structural element 1.

[0128] In addition, the step 7 of the first structural element 1 is in contact with the base face 2c of the second structural element 1 parallel to the axis Z.

[0129] In the structural assembly 50 shown in Figure 3, furthermore, the cylindrical bodies 13 of one of the two structural elements 1 are aligned with the cylindrical bodies 13 of the other of the two structural elements 1 parallel to the axis Z; similarly, the cylindrical bodies 14 of one of the two structural elements 1 are aligned with the cylindrical bodies 14 of the other of the two structural elements 1 parallel to the axis Z. Consequently, the holes 11 of the two structural elements 1 are aligned with each other and the holes 12 of the two structural elements 1 are aligned with each other.

[0130] Figure 4 shows a structural assembly 50 comprising a first structural element 1 and a second structural element 1 coupled with each other parallel to the axis X. In detail, the second shaped profile 5 of the first structural element 1 and the second shaped profile 5 of the second structural element 1 are coupled to each other.

[0131] In detail, at the faces If, each projection 5c of the first structural element 1 engages a respective recess 5d of the second structural element 1 and each recess 5d of the first structural element 1 engages a respective projection 5c of the second structural element 1.

[0132] Assembly of the structural elements 1 for construction of the structural assemblies 50 is described below.

[0133] In particular, in order to assemble two structural elements 1 parallel to the respective axes Z, the two structural elements 1 are made to slide one with respect to the other, so that the first shaped profile 4 of one of the two structural elements 1 engages the third shaped profile 6 of the other of the two (Figure 2).

[0134] In detail, each projection 4a, 4c of one of the two structural elements 1 is engaged with a respective recess 6b, 6d of the other structural element 1 and each recess 4b,4d of the first structural element 1 is engaged with a respective projection 6a, 6c of the second structural element 1.

[0135] In order to assemble two structural elements 1 parallel to the respective axes Z and in a staggered manner with each other, the coupling portion 8 of one of the two structural elements 1 is engaged by the first shaped profile 4 and by the second shaped profile 5 of the other of the two structural elements 1.

[0136] In addition, the sliding between the two structural elements 1 parallel to the axis Z is stopped when the step 7 of one of the two structural elements 1 is in abutment against the base face 2c of the other.

[0137] At the end of sliding, furthermore, the holes 11 and the holes 12 of the two structural elements 1 are aligned with each other parallel to the axis Z (Figure 3).

[0138] The tie rod elements 60 are inserted through at least some of the holes 11 aligned with each other. Specifically, a rod 61 is inserted in each of such holes 11 of one of the two structural elements 1 and a respective threaded bushing 62 is screwed on at the axial end 61b of each rod 61 exiting from the end lb. Once the second structural element 1 has been assembled to the first, a second rod 61 is inserted into each corresponding hole 11 of the second structural element 1 and the axial end la of each second rod 61 is screwed into a respective threaded bushing 62 into which the respective first rod 61 has previously been screwed. In this manner, each first rod 61 is connected to a respective second rod 61 parallel to the axis Z.

[0139] In order to assemble two structural elements 1 parallel to the respective axes X, the faces If of each of the two structural elements are facing each other and the two structural elements 1 are brought close to each other so that the second shaped profile 5 of one of the two structural elements 1 engages the second shaped profile 5 of the other of the two structural elements.

[0140] In detail, each projection 5c of one of the two structural elements 1 is engaged in a respective recess 5d of the other of the two structural elements 1 and each recess 5d of one of the two structural elements 1 is engaged in a respective projection 5c of the other (Figure 4).

[0141] In order to assemble two structural elements 1 parallel to the respective axes Y, the faces le of each of the two structural elements 1 are facing each other and the two structural elements 1 are brought close to each other so that the second shaped profile 5 of one of the two structural elements 1 engages the second shaped profile 5 of the other of the two structural elements 1.

[0142] In detail, each projection 5a of one of the two structural elements 1 is engaged with a respective recess 5b of the other of the two structural elements 1 and each recess 5b of one of the structural elements 1 is engaged in a respective projection 5a of the other.

[0143] Several structural elements 1 are assembled with each other parallel to the axis X and / or Y and / or Z to construct beams, pillars, slabs, walls or roofs.

[0144] Figure 6 shows a structural assembly 50 comprising a plurality of structural elements 1 assembled with each other to form a slab 51.

[0145] In detail, the slab 51 comprises a plurality of rows 52 of structural elements 1 assembled with each other along the respective axes X. In addition, the structural elements 1 of each row 52 are assembled to the structural elements of the row or the adjacent rows 52 parallel to the respective axes Z.

[0146] In greater detail, considering a first structural element 1 and a second structural element 1 belonging to the two respective rows 52 adjacent to each other parallel to the respective axes Z, the coupling portion 8 of the first structural element 1 is engaged by the perimeter portion 3 of the second structural element 1. Specifically, the coupling portion 8 of the first structural element 1 is engaged by the first shaped profile 4 and by the second shaped profile 5 of the second structural element 1 at a respective face If. In other words, only one of the two halves 100, 101 of the first structural element 1 is superimposed on a respective half 101, 100 of the second structural element 1.

[0147] Therefore, the structural elements 1 that form the slab 51 are assembled with each other parallel to the respective axes Z in a staggered manner.

[0148] In addition, each structural element 1 of the slab 51 is engaged by four respective tie rod elements 60, in particular two tie rod elements 60 for each half 100, 101.

[0149] In detail, considering the arrangement of the structural elements 1 of the slab 51 shown in Figure 6, for each half 100, 101, three of the holes 11 are aligned with each other parallel to the respective axis Y (including the central hole 11) and three of the holes 11 are aligned with each other parallel to the respective axis X (including the one arranged at the central hole 11). In further detail, the two tie rod elements 60 of each half 100, 101 engage a respective hole 11 arranged at a respective end of the structural element 1 parallel to the axis Y. In other words, two of the tie rod elements 60 are arranged on the side of the compressed fibres and the other two are arranged on the side of the taut fibres of the slab 51.

[0150] The structural assembly 50 shown in Figure 6 further comprises a beam 53. The beam 53 comprises, in turn, a plurality of structural elements 1 assembled with each other parallel to the respective axes Z.

[0151] In addition, the structural elements 1 that form the beam 53 are arranged perpendicularly to the structural elements 1 that form the slab 51, i.e. so that the axis X of each structural element 1 that forms the beam 53 is perpendicular to the axis X of each structural element 1 that forms the slab 51. In detail, the second shaped profile 5 of each structural element 1 of the beam 53 at the respective face le is coupled to the second shaped profile 5 of at least one respective structural element 1 of the slab 51 at the respective face If. In further detail, one of the two halves 100, 101 of the structural elements 1 that form the beam 53 is aligned with the structural elements 1 that form the slab 51, specifically parallel to the direction of extension of the rows 52; the other of the two halves 101, 100 of the structural elements 1 that form the beam 53 project with respect to the structural elements 1 that form the slab 51, specifically perpendicularly to the direction of extension of the rows 52.

[0152] In addition, each structural element 1 of the beam 53 is engaged by four respective tie rod elements 60, of which in particular one tie rod element 60 at one of the two halves 100, 101 and three tie rod elements 60 at the other of the two halves 101, 100.

[0153] In detail, considering the arrangement of the structural elements 1 of the beam 53 shown in Figure 6, for each half 100, 101, three of the holes 11 are aligned with each other parallel to the respective axis Y (including the central hole 11) and three of the holes 11 are aligned with each other parallel to the respective axis X (including the central hole 11). In further detail, considering a structural element 1 of the beam 53, at the half 100, 101 aligned with the structural elements 1 of the slab 51, the tie rod element 60 engages the hole 11 arranged at the opposite end to the other half 101, 100 (i.e. the one that projects with respect to the slab 51) parallel to the axis Y; at the half 101, 100 that projects with respect to the slab 51, the three respective tie rod elements 60 engage the holes 11 arranged at the three respective vertices of the rhombus shape opposite to the other half 100, 101 (i.e. the one aligned with the structural elements 1 of the slab 51) parallel to the axis Y.

[0154] Figure 7 shows a structural assembly 50 comprising a plurality of structural elements 1 assembled with each other to form a wall 54 and a wall 55 orthogonal to each other.

[0155] In detail, the wall 54 comprises a plurality of rows 56 of structural elements 1 assembled with each other along the respective axes X and arranged so that the axes X are parallel to a direction W. In addition, the structural elements 1 of each row 56 are assembled to the structural elements of the row or the adjacent rows 56 parallel to the respective axes Z.

[0156] The structural elements 1 belonging to different rows 56 to each other are also coupled in a staggered manner.

[0157] The wall 55 comprises a plurality of rows 57 of structural elements 1 assembled with each other along the respective axes X and arranged so that the axes X are parallel to a direction J orthogonal to the direction W. In addition, the structural elements 1 of each row 57 are assembled to the structural elements of the row or the adjacent rows 57 parallel to the respective axes Z.

[0158] The structural elements 1 belonging to different rows 57 to each other are also coupled in a staggered manner.

[0159] In addition, each structural element 1 of the wall 54 and the wall 55 is engaged by two respective tie rod elements 60. In detail, for each structural element 1, each tie rod element 60 engages the central hole 11 of a respective half 100, 101.

[0160] The structural assembly 50 shown in Figure 7 further comprises a pillar 58. The pillar 58 comprises a plurality of structural elements 1 assembled with each other parallel to the respective axes Z.

[0161] In addition, the structural elements 1 that form the pillar 58 are arranged parallel to the structural elements that form the wall 54 and perpendicularly to the structural elements 1 that form the wall 55. In detail, the second shaped profile 5 of each structural element 1 of the pillar 58 at the face le facing towards the wall 54 is coupled to the second shaped profile 5 of at least one respective structural element 1 of the wall 54 at the respective face le facing towards the pillar 58; the second shaped profile 5 of each structural element 1 of the pillar 58 at the face le facing towards the wall 55 is coupled to the second shaped profile 5 of at least one respective structural element 1 of the wall 55 at the respective face If facing towards the pillar 58.

[0162] In addition, each structural element 1 of the pillar 58 is engaged by two respective tie rod elements 60. In detail, for each structural element 1, each tie rod element 60 engages the central hole 11 of a respective half 100, 101.

[0163] In use, the structural assemblies 1 are capable of supporting bending stresses (Figure 6) and compressive and bending stresses (Figure 7).

[0164] In addition, since the structural assemblies 50 comprise the tie rod elements 60, they are also capable of supporting tensile stresses.

[0165] With reference to Figure 9, the number 1' indicates a portion of a structural element according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The structural element 1' is similar to the structural element 1 and will be described below only insofar as it differs from it; identical or equivalent parts of the structural elements 1; 1' will be identified, where possible, with the same reference numbers.

[0166] The structural element 1' differs from the structural element 1 in that it comprises shaped profiles with a different geometry to the shaped profiles of the structural element 1.

[0167] Specifically, the shaped profiles shown in Figure 9 are two first shaped profiles 4' belonging respectively to two different structural elements 1', or two second shaped profiles 5' belonging respectively to two different structural elements 1', or two third shaped profiles 6' belonging respectively to two different structural elements 1'.

[0168] In particular, the shaped profiles shown in Figure 9 have a trapezoidal shape on a plane orthogonal to the axis Z and are couplable to each other.

[0169] With reference to Figure 10, the number 1'' indicates a portion of a structural element according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The structural element 1'' is similar to the structural element 1 and will be described below only insofar as it differs from it; identical or equivalent parts of the structural elements 1; 1'' will be identified, where possible, with the same reference numbers. The structural element 1'' differs from the structural element 1 in that it comprises shaped profiles with a different geometry to the shaped profiles of the structural element 1.

[0170] Specifically, the shaped profiles shown in Figure 10 are two first shaped profiles 4'' belonging respectively to two different structural elements 1'', or two second shaped profiles 5'' belonging respectively to two different structural elements 1'', or two third shaped profiles 6'' belonging respectively to two different structural elements 1''.

[0171] In detail, the shaped profiles shown in Figure 10 have a curved shape on a plane orthogonal to the axis Z and are couplable to each other. In further detail, such shaped profiles have a semicircular shape on a plane orthogonal to the axis Z.

[0172] With reference to Figure 11, the number 1''' indicates a portion of a structural element according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. The structural element 1''' is similar to the structural element 1 and will be described below only insofar as it differs from it; identical or equivalent parts of the structural elements 1; 1''' will be identified, where possible, with the same reference numbers.

[0173] The structural element 1''' differs from the structural element 1 in that it comprises shaped profiles with a different geometry to the shaped profiles of the structural element 1.

[0174] Specifically, the shaped profiles shown in Figure 11 are two first shaped profiles 4''' belonging respectively to two different structural elements 1''', or two second shaped profiles 5''' belonging respectively to two different structural elements 1''', or two third shaped profiles 6''' belonging respectively to two different structural elements 1'''. In particular, the shaped profiles shown in Figure 11 have a triangular or zigzag shape on a plane orthogonal to the axis Z and are couplable to each other.

[0175] It is necessary to specify that Figures 9, 10 and 11 show only part of the first shaped profile 4'; 4''; 4''', of the second shaped profile 5'; 5''; 5''' or of the third shaped profile 6'; 6''; 6'''. Preferably, in fact, the first shaped profile 4'; 4''; 4''', the second shaped profile 5'; 5''; 5''' and the third shaped profile 6'; 6''; 6''' extend in a similar manner respectively to the first shaped profile 4, to the second shaped profile 5 and to the third shaped profile 6 parallel to the axes X, Y and Z.

[0176] Based on the above, the advantages of the structural element 1; 1'; 1''; 1''', of the structural assembly 50 and of the method for assembling structural elements according to the invention are clear.

[0177] In particular, since the perimeter portion 3 comprises the first shaped profile 4; 4'; 4''; 4''', the second shaped profile 5; 5'; 5''; 5''' and the third shaped profile 6; 6'; 6''; 6''’, each structural element 1; 1'; 1''; 1''' can be assembled to other structural elements 1; 1'; 1''; 1''' in a very versatile manner for the construction of building works of any kind.

[0178] In detail, the assembly between shaped profiles 4, 5, 6; 4', 5', 6'; 4'', 5'', 6'’; 4''', 5''', 6''' of different structural elements 1; 1'; 1''; 1''' is of the solely mechanical type and therefore not permanent. The coupling between the shaped profiles 4, 5, 6; 4', 5', 6'; 4'', 5'', 6''; 4''', 5''', 6''' is, in fact, a shape coupling and does not provide for chemical binders or welding. Consequently, the structural assemblies 50 constructed by means of the structural elements 1; 1'; 1''; 1''' can be easily demounted and remounted. The coupling between projections and recesses with a corresponding shape allows a perfect interpenetration between the structural elements 1; 1'; 1''; 1''', which ensures water tightness. In detail, the fact that the shaped profiles 4, 5, 6; 4', 5', 6'; 4'', 5'', 6''; 4''', 5''', 6''' are jagged makes the contact surfaces hard to cross by light or liquids.

[0179] Since the first shaped profile 4; 4'; 4''; 4''' of a structural element 1; 1'; 1''; 1''' is engaged in the third shaped profile 6; 6'; 6''; 6''' of another structural element 1; 1'; 1''; 1''', the structural assembly 50 formed by the pair of two structural elements 1; 1'; 1''; 1''' is particularly resistant to shearing stresses.

[0180] Furthermore, the tie rod elements 60 give tensile strength to the structural assemblies 50.

[0181] The presence of the holes 12 allows the accommodation of electric cables and / or hydraulic pipes inside the structural elements 1; 1'; 1''; 1''' and therefore the structural assemblies 50.

[0182] In conclusion, it is clear that changes and variants can be made to the structural element 1; 1'; 1''; 1''', to the structural assembly 50 and to the method for assembling structural elements according to the present invention without thus deviating from the scope of protection as defined by the claims.

[0183] The perimeter portion 3 could surround the central portion 2 along only part of the extension of the latter parallel to the axes X and / or Y.

[0184] The central portion 2 could comprise a number of holes 11 different to ten. Specifically, the central portion 2 could comprise a number of holes 11 lower than ten or a number of holes 11 higher than ten. The central portion 2 could comprise a number of holes 12 different to eight. Specifically, the central portion 2 could comprise a number of holes 12 lower than eight or a number of holes 11 higher than eight.

[0185] In addition, the holes 11 and / or the holes 12 could not have a circular cross-section. For example, they could have a triangular, square or polygonal cross-section.

[0186] The structural element could comprise the first shaped profile 4, the third shaped profile 6 and the second shaped profile 5', 5'' or 5''' in place of the second shaped profile 5.

[0187] The structural element could comprise the first shaped profile 4' and the third shaped profile 6', in association with the second shaped profile 5, or with the second shaped profile 5' or with the second shaped profile 5'', or with the second shaped profile 5'''.

[0188] The structural element could comprise the first shaped profile 4'' and the third shaped profile 6'', in association with the second shaped profile 5, or with the second shaped profile 5' or with the second shaped profile 5'', or with the second shaped profile 5'''.

[0189] The structural element could comprise the first shaped profile 4''' and the third shaped profile 6''', in association with the second shaped profile 5, or with the second shaped profile 5' or with the second shaped profile 5'', or with the second shaped profile 5'''.

[0190] The structural assembly 50 could comprise a plurality of structural elements 1; 1'; 1''; 1''' in a different number or arranged in a different manner to what is shown. For example, the beam 53 could comprise a plurality of structural elements 1; 1'; 1''; i''' assembled with each other to form a T-shaped transverse section or an H-shaped transverse section.

[0191] The fourth shaped profile 80, the fifth shaped profile 81, the sixth shaped profile 82 and the seventh shaped profile 83 could be shaped similarly to the shaped profiles 4', 5', 6' or similarly to the shaped profiles 4'', 5'', 6'' or similarly to the shaped profiles 4''', 5''', 6'''.

[0192] The structural assembly 50 shown in Figure 6 could not comprise the beam 53 and the structural assembly 50 shown in Figure 7 could not comprise the pillar 58.

Claims

CLAIMS1.- Modular structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') comprising:- a central portion (2);- a perimeter portion (3) surrounding at least in part said central portion (2) parallel to a first axis (X) and parallel to a second axis (Y) transversal to said first axis (X) and adapted to engage a corresponding perimeter portion (3) of another said structural element (1; 1'; 1''; I'''); said perimeter portion (3) comprising an inner region (3a) facing towards said central portion (2) and an outer region (3b) opposite to said central portion (2); said perimeter portion (3) comprising:- a first shaped profile (4; 4'; 4''; 4''') extending at said inner region (3a) along a first part (Zl) of the extension of said structural element (1) along a third axis (Z) transversal to said first and second axes (X, Y);- a second shaped profile (5; 5'; 5''; 5''') extending at said outer region (3b) along a second part (Z2) of the extension of said structural element (1) along said third axis (Z); and- a third shaped profile (6; 6'; 6''; 6''') extending at said outer region (3b) along a third part (Z3) of the extension of said structural element (1) along said third axis (Z).2.- The structural element according to claim 1, wherein said first shaped profile (4; 4'; 4''; 4''') and said third shaped profile (6; 6'; 6''; 6''') have corresponding shapes to each other.3.- The structural element according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a first end (la) and a second end (lb) opposite to each other along said third axis (Z); wherein said first shaped profile (4; 4'; 4''; 4''') extends at said first end (la) and said third shaped profile (6; 6'; 6''; 6''') extends at said second end (lb).4.- The structural element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first shaped profile (4; 4'; 4''; 4'''), said second shaped profile (5; 5'; 5''; 5''') and said third shaped profile (6; 6'; 6''; 6''') completely surround said central portion (2) parallel to said first axis (X) and to said second axis (Y).5.- The structural element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first shaped profile (4; 4'; 4''; 4''') comprises a plurality of first projections (4a; 4a'; 4a''; 4a'''), that protrude parallel to said second axis (Y) towards said central portion (2) and are distanced from each other parallel to said first axis (X) and a plurality of first recesses (4b; 4b'; 4b''; 4b''') each interposed between a pair of said first projections (4a; 4a'; 4a''; 4a''') parallel to said first axis (X); wherein said third shaped profile (6; 6'; 6''; 6''') comprises a plurality of second projections (6a; 6a'; 6a''; 6a'''), that protrude parallel to said second axis (Y) from the opposite side to said central portion (2) and are distanced from each other parallel to said first axis (X) and a plurality of second recesses (6b; 6b'; 6b''; 6b''') each interposed between a pair of said second projections (6a; 6a'; 6a''; 6a''') parallel to said first axis (X); wherein said first projections (4a; 4a'; 4a''; 4a''') have a shape corresponding with said second recesses (6b; 6b'; 6b''; 6b''') and said first recesses (4b; 4b'; 4b''; 4b''') have a shape corresponding with said second projections (6a; 6a'; 6a''; 6a'''); and / or wherein said first shaped profile (4; 4'; 4''; 4''') comprises a plurality of third projections (4c; 4c'; 4c''; 4c'''), that protrude parallel to said first axis (X) towards said central portion (2) and are distanced from each other parallel to said second axis (Y) and a plurality of third recesses (4d; 4d'; 4d''; 4d''') each interposed between a pair of said thirdprojections (4c; 4c'; 4c''; 4c''') parallel to said second axis (Y); wherein said third shaped profile (6; 6'; 6''; 6''') comprises a plurality of fourth projections (6c; 6c'; 6c''; 6c'''), that protrude parallel to said first axis (X) from the opposite side to said central portion (2) and are distanced from each other parallel to said second axis (Y) and a plurality of fourth recesses (6d; 6d'; 6d''; 6d''') each interposed between a pair of said fourth projections (6c; 6c'; 6c''; 6c''') parallel to said second axis (Y); wherein said third projections (4c; 4c'; 4c''; 4c''') have a shape corresponding with said fourth recesses (6d; 6d'; 6d''; 6d''') and said third recesses (4d; 4d'; 4d''; 4d''') have a shape corresponding with said fourth projections (6c, 6c'; 6c''; 6c''').6.- The structural element according to claim 5, wherein said first, second, third and fourth projections (4a, 4c, 6a, 6c) and said first, second, third and fourth recesses (4b, 4d, 6b, 6d) have a rectangular shape on a plane orthogonal to said third axis (Z).7.- The structural element according to claim 5, wherein said first, second, third and fourth projections (4a', 4c', 6a', 6c') and said first, second, third and fourth recesses (4b', 4d', 6b', 6d') have a trapezoidal shape on a plane orthogonal to said third axis (Z).8.- The structural element according to claim 5, wherein said first, second, third and fourth projections (4a'', 4c'', 6a'', 6c'') and said first, second, third and fourth recesses (4b'', 4d'', 6b'', 6d'') have a curved shape on a plane orthogonal to said third axis (Z).9.- The structural element according to claim 5, wherein said first, second, third and fourth projections (4a''', 4c''',6a''', 6c''') and said first, second, third and fourth recesses (4b''', 4d''', 6b''', 6d''') have a zigzag shape on a plane orthogonal to said third axis (Z).10.- The structural element according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that said central portion (2) comprises at least a first hole (11) adapted to be engaged by a tie rod element (60) extending parallel to said third axis (Z).11.- The structural element according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that said central portion (2) comprises at least a second hole (12) adapted to accommodate electric cables and / or hydraulic pipes and extending parallel to said third axis.12.- The structural element according to any one of claims 3 to 11, comprising:- a first base face (1c) arranged on the side of said first end da) ;- a second basic face (Id) arranged on the side of said second end (lb);- a first coupling portion (8), that extends at said second base face (Id); and- a second coupling portion (9), that extends at said first base face (1c); said structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') comprising a first half (100) and a second half (101) with respect to said first coupling portion (8) and said second coupling portion (9) along said first axis (X).13.- Structural assembly (50) comprising at least a first structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') according to any one of the preceding claims; characterised in that said structural assembly comprises at least a second structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') identical to said first structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''');said first structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') and said second structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') being in contact with each other along said third axis (Z); wherein the first shaped profile (4; 4'; 4''; 4''') of said first structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') and the third shaped profile (6; 6'; 6''; 6''') of said second structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') are coupled with each other; and / or characterised in that said structural assembly (50) comprises at least a third structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') identical to said first structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1'''); said first structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') and said third structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') being in contact with each other along said first axis (X) or along said second axis (Y); wherein the second shaped profile (5; 5'; 5''; 5''') of said first structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') and the second shaped profile (5; 5'; 5''; 5''') of said third structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') are coupled with each other.14.- The structural assembly according to claim 13, characterised in being a pillar (58), a beam (53), a wall (54, 55), a roof and / or a slab (51).15.- The structural assembly according to claim 13 or 14 when dependent upon claim 10, wherein said first structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') comprises a plurality of said first holes (11) and said second structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') comprises a plurality of said first holes (11); wherein at least some of said first holes (11) of said first structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') are aligned with respective first holes (11) of said second structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') parallel to said third axis (Z); said structural assembly (50) also comprising at least one said tie rod element (60) extending parallel to said third axis (Z) and accommodated in one said first hole (11) of said first structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') and in the first hole (11) aligned to it of said second structural element (1; 1'; 1'';116.- The structural assembly according to claim 15, wherein each said tie rod element (60) comprises:- at least one rod (61) comprising respective threaded axial ends (61a, 61b); and- at least two threaded bushings (62); wherein one of the two threaded bushings (62) is screwed onto one of the two axial ends (61a, 61b) and the other of the two threaded bushings (62) is screwed onto the other of the two axial ends (61b, 61a).17.- The structural assembly according to any one of claims 13 to 16 when dependent on claim 12, wherein the first half (100) of said first structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') is superimposed on the second half (101) of said second structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') parallel to said third axis (Z); said second half (101) of said first structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') being distanced from said first half (100) and from said second half (101) of said second structural element (1; 1'; 1" ; 1'''); wherein said first coupling portion (8) of said second structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') is coupled to the first shaped profile (4; 4'; 4''; 4''') and to the second shaped profile (5; 5'; 5''; 5''') of said first structural element (1; 1'; 1" ; 1'''); wherein said second coupling portion (9) of said first structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') is coupled to said third shaped profile (6; 6'; 6''; 6''') of said second structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''').18.- A method of assembling structural elements (1; 1'; 1''; 1'''); each said structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') comprising:- a central portion (2);- a perimeter portion (3) surrounding at least in part saidcentral portion (2) parallel to a first axis (X) and parallel to a second axis (Y) transversal to said first axis (X); said perimeter portion (3) comprising an inner region (3a) facing towards said central portion (2) and an outer region (3b) opposite to said central portion (2); said perimeter portion (3) comprising:- a first shaped profile (4; 4'; 4''; 4''') extending at said inner region (3a) along a first part (Zl) of the extension of said structural element (1) along a third axis (Z) transversal to said first and second axes (X, Y);- a second shaped profile (5; 5'; 5''; 5''') extending at said outer region (3b) along a second part (Z2) of the extension of said structural element (1) along said third axis (Z); and- a third shaped profile (6; 6'; 6''; 6''') extending at said outer region (3b) along a third part (Z3) of the extension of said structural element (1) along said third axis (Z); said method comprising the steps of: i) coupling the first shaped profile (4) of a first said structural element (1) to the third shaped profile (6) of a second said structural element (1); and / or ii) coupling the second shaped profile (5; 5'; 5''; 5''') of a first said structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') to the second shaped profile (5; 5'; 5''; 5''') of a third said structural element (1; 1'; 1''; 1''').

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