Temporary structure with improved wall system

Abstract

A temporary building or structure includes one or more wall segments. The one or more wall segments include a first upright post, a second upright post, a first channel member on the first upright post and defining a first vertical channel, and a second channel member on the second upright post and defining a second vertical channel. The wall segment additionally includes a first horizontal row extending between the first and second vertical channels and including a first wall panel and a plenum. The wall segment includes a second horizontal row above or below the first horizontal row and extending between the first and second vertical channels. The second horizontal row includes a second wall panel.

Description

TEMPORARY STRUCTURE WITH IMPROVED WALL SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 565,248, filed March 14, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all intents and purposes.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The invention relates to temporary buildings or structures, and, more particularly, to temporary buildings or structures with wall systems, such as but not limited to those with connections for environmental control systems, such as but not limited to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Temporary buildings or structures are commonly designed to house or provide shelter from elements to people, products, equipment, animals, and / or as otherwise desired. While temporary buildings may function like a permanent structure, they are easily set up and installed, which further may allow for easy disassembly when no longer needed. Temporary buildings are often customizable and may range in type from tents, buildings, and shipping containers to large warehouses and semi -permanent buildings. Commonly, the walls of such temporary buildings are constructed from a flexible or fabric wall because such fabric walls enclose a space while also being easy to install, store, and remove as needed.

[0004] In certain situations, it may be desirable to control environmental conditions (e.g., heat or temperature, humidity, dampness, ventilation, etc.) within the temporary structure. Traditional approaches for environmental control with the temporary structure include providing an environmental handling system, such as but not limited to an HVAC system, outside of the temporary structure and connecting fabric ducts to fabric duct socks welded into the fabric wall and / or sandwiching the fabric ducts through any available opening in the fabric wall. Such traditional approaches are prone to failure and prone to disassembly, thereby decreasing the effectiveness of the environmental control systems and / or subjecting the interior of the temporary structure to external conditions such as water intrusion, weather events, etc.SUMMARY

[0005] Embodiments covered by this patent are defined by the claims below, not this summary. This summary is a high-level overview of various embodiments and introduces some of the concepts that are further described in the Detailed Description section below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in isolation to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by reference to appropriate portions of the entire specification of this patent, any or all drawings, and each claim.

[0006] According to certain embodiments, a temporary building or structure includes a wall segment with a first channel member, a second channel member, and at least one wall panel. The first channel member and the second channel member may be supported on corresponding upright posts. In some embodiments, the first channel member and the second channel member each define a vertical channel, and the vertical channels face each other. In some embodiments, the wall panel includes opposing end portions and such that a first end portion is positioned within the vertical channel of the first channel member and a second end portion is positioned within the vertical channel of the second channel member.

[0007] According to some embodiments, a temporary building or structure includes a wall segment with a first wall panel and a second wall panel. In various embodiments, the first wall panel is arranged in a first horizontal row and includes an upper edge and a lower edge. The second wall panel is arranged in a second horizontal row above the first horizontal row, and the second wall panel includes an upper edge and a lower edge. In various embodiments, the upper edge of the first wall panel includes a ridge and the lower edge of the second wall panel includes a slot configured to receive the ridge, or the upper edge of the first wall panel includes the slot and the lower edge of the second wall panel includes the ridge positionable within the slot.

[0008] According to various embodiments, a temporary building or structure includes a wall segment with a first wall panel arranged in a first horizontal row, a second wall panel arranged in a second horizontal row, and a plenum for one or more ducts arranged in the first horizontal row.

[0009] According to certain embodiments, a temporary building or structure includes a wall segment with a first channel member defining a first vertical channel and a second channel member defining a second vertical channel which faces the first vertical channel. In someembodiments, the wall segment includes a first horizontal row extending between the first and second vertical channels and a second horizontal row above or below the first horizontal row and extending between the first and second vertical channels. In certain embodiments, the first horizontal row includes a first wall panel and a plenum, and the second horizontal row includes a second wall panel.

[0010] According to various embodiments, a temporary building or structure includes a wall segment with a first upright post, a second upright post, a first channel member on the first upright post and defining a first vertical channel, and a second channel member on the second upright post and defining a second vertical channel facing the first vertical channel. The wall segment additionally includes a first horizontal row extending between the first and second vertical channels and a second horizontal row above or below the first horizontal row and extending between the first and second vertical channels. In certain embodiments, the first horizontal row includes a first wall panel and a plenum, and the second horizontal row includes a second wall panel.

[0011] According to some embodiments, a plenum for a wall segment of a temporary building or structure includes a center portion defining at least one aperture, a side edge defining a side channel, and an upper edge or a lower edge defining an upper channel or a lower channel. In some embodiments, the side channel is configured to receive a portion of a first wall panel, and the upper channel or the lower channel is configured to receive a portion of a second wall panel.

[0012] According to certain embodiments, a method of assembling a temporary building or structure includes supporting a first channel member on a first upright post, supporting a second channel member on a second upright post and such that a first vertical channel of the first channel member faces a second vertical channel of the second channel member. The method includes forming at least two horizontal rows where each horizontal row includes a wall panel. In some embodiments, forming at least two horizontal rows includes forming a first horizontal row with a first wall panel and a plenum and forming a second horizontal row with a second wall panel above or below the first horizontal row and extending between the first and second vertical channels.

[0013] Various implementations described herein can include additional systems, methods, features, and advantages, which cannot necessarily be expressly disclosed herein but will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following detaileddescription and accompanying drawings. It is intended that all such systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within the present disclosure and protected by the accompanying claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The specification makes reference to the following appended figure, in which use of like reference numerals is intended to illustrate like or analogous components.

[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates a temporary building or structure with a wall system according to embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a top sectional view of a portion of the wall system of FIG. 1 without wall panels.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a side view of a wall panel of the wall system of FIG. 1 according to embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a top sectional view of a portion of the wall system of FIG. 1.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a top sectional view of a portion of the wall system of FIG. 1.

[0020] FIG. 6 illustrates portions of the wall system of FIG. 1 being assembled according to embodiments.

[0021] FIG. 7 illustrates portions of the wall system of FIG. 1 being assembled according to embodiments.

[0022] FIG. 8 illustrates portions of the wall system of FIG. 1 being assembled according to embodiments.

[0023] FIG. 9 illustrates portions of the wall system of FIG. 1 being assembled according to embodiments.

[0024] FIG. 10 is another view of the temporary building or structure of FIG. 1 according to embodiments.

[0025] FIG. 11 is another view of the temporary building or structure of FIG. 1 according to embodiments.

[0026] FIG. 12 is another view of the temporary building or structure of FIG. 1 according to embodiments.

[0027] FIG. 13 is another view of the temporary building or structure of FIG. 1 according to embodiments.

[0028] FIG. 14 is a view of an interior of the temporary building or structure of FIG. 1 according to embodiments.

[0029] FIG. 15 is a view of an interior of the temporary building or structure of FIG. 1 according to embodiments.DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] Described herein are temporary buildings or structures (hereinafter “temporary buildings”) with improved wall systems and associated methods. In some embodiments, the systems and methods described herein include one or more wall segments, each with one or more horizontal rows extending between upright posts. In certain embodiments, each horizontal row includes at least one rigid wall panel. In certain embodiments, the rigid wall panels are constructed from various materials as desired. Optionally, the rigid wall panels are constructed from a metal such as but not limited to steel. In one non-limiting example, the rigid panels may include insulation between rigid walls. Compared to traditional approaches, the systems and methods described herein may provide a secure connection between the wall panels and the upright posts by utilizing channel members defining vertical channels. In some embodiments, vertically adjacent rows of wall panels may be engaged with each other via a ridge and slot connection, thereby providing a secure connection between adjacent rows of wall panels and / or minimizing access of external elements (e.g., water, air, etc.) through the interface of the adjacent wall panels.

[0031] Optionally, at least one horizontal row includes a plenum which may connect with one or more ducts of an environmental control system, such as but not limited to an HVAC system. Compared to traditional approaches, the systems and methods described herein may include the plenum while minimizing cuts in wall panels needed to accommodate such plenums. In certain embodiments, the plenum may be contained within a single horizontal row, thereby eliminating cutting of wall panels of vertically adjacent rows of wall panels. In certain embodiments, the systems and methods described herein may limit openings around or in the wall system. The systems and methods described herein provide a modular and flexible system which may accommodate the placement of one or more plenums in various locations and / or configurations as desired.

[0032] Various other benefits and advantages may be realized with the systems and methods provided herein, and the aforementioned advantages should not be considered limiting.

[0033] FIGS. 1-15 illustrate an example of a temporary building 10 according to embodiments. The temporary building 10 generally includes support structure 12, which may include one or more vertical supports 14 (e.g., upright posts, beams, and / or other devices or structures). Optionally, and as best illustrated in FIG. 6, the support structure 12 may include one or more horizontal supports 16 (e.g., horizontal posts, beams, and / or other devices or structures). The support structure 12 may support a wall system 18 and optionally may support a roof system 20. As discussed in detail below, compared to traditional approaches in which the wall system 18 includes a fabric or flexible material, the wall system 18 may include one or more the wall segments 24 with one or more rigid wall panels. Optionally, at least a portion of the wall system 18 includes a wall fabric or flexible material, although it need not in other embodiments. The roof system 20 may be constructed from various materials as desired, including fabric or flexible materials and / or rigid materials.

[0034] As mentioned, in certain embodiments, the wall system 18 includes one or more wall segments 24. Any number of wall segments 24 may be included with the wall system 18, and the number of wall segments 24 illustrated in FIGS. 1-15 should not be considered limiting. In certain embodiments, each wall segment 24 includes first and second channel members 26A- B and one or more horizontal rows 28, each horizontal row 28 including one or more rigid wall panels 30. Optionally, one or more plenums 32 may be provided within a horizontal row 28 of the wall segment 24. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-15, a wall segment 24 is illustrated with six horizontal rows 28A-F, and horizontal rows 28A, 28C, 28D, and 28F include one rigid wall panel 30 while horizontal rows 28B and 28E each include two rigid wall panels 30 and one plenum 32A-B. In other embodiments, any number of horizontal rows 28 may be utilized within a wall segment 24 and / or a given horizontal row 28 may include any number of rigid wall panels 30 and / or plenums 32 as desired.

[0035] As best illustrated in FIG. 2, the first and second channel members 26A-B may be provided on adjacent vertical supports 14. In some embodiments, the channel members 26A-B may be attached or connected to the vertical supports 14 via various connecting mechanisms, such as but not limited to mechanical fasteners, welding, adhesives, chemical fasteners, combinations thereof, and / or as otherwise desired. In other embodiments, one or both channel members 26A-B may be monolithically (e.g., natively) or integrally formed with the verticalsupports 14. In the embodiment illustrated, mechanical fasteners secure the channel members 26A-B to the corresponding vertical supports 14.

[0036] The particular position or placement of the channel members 26A-B on the vertical supports 14 should not be considered limiting. As non-limiting examples, while FIGS. 1-14 illustrate the channel members 26A-B more proximate to a nominal outer edge 45 of the vertical supports 14 than a nominal inner edge 47 of the vertical supports 14, they need not be so positioned in other embodiments.

[0037] Each channel member 26A-B defines a vertical channel 34 having a channel opening 36. As discussed in detail below, edge portions of the rigid wall panels 30 may be at least partially received within the vertical channels 34. In certain embodiments, the channel members 26A-B are provided on the vertical supports 14 such that the channel openings 36 face each other. In some embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 2, the channel members 26A- B may be generally C-shaped with a nominally inner wall 38, a nominally outer wall 40, and a connecting wall 42, and the walls 38, 40, 42 may define the vertical channel 34 and channel opening 36. In some cases, a height of the channel members 26A-B (and thus the height of the vertical channels 34) is the same as the height of the vertical supports 14. However, in other embodiments, the height of the channel members 26A-B may be less than the height of the vertical supports 14. In other embodiments, the channel members 26A-B may have other shapes or profiles as desired.

[0038] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the rigid wall panels 30 generally include a first face 44, a second face 46, an upper edge 48, and a lower edge 50. As best illustrated in FIG. 4, the rigid wall panels 30 also include opposing edges 60, 62. In certain embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 4, the rigid wall panels 30 within a particular horizontal row 28 without a plenum 32 have a length, or distance between edges 60, 62, that spans the distance between the channel members 26A-B. In these embodiments, at least a portion of the edge 60 may be provided within one vertical channel 34 and at least a portion of the edge 62 may be provided within the opposing vertical channel 34. In other embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 5, the rigid wall panels 30 within a horizontal row 28 having a plenum 32 may have a length that spans the distance between channel members 26A-B. In other words, in horizontal rows 28 with one or more plenums 32, the one or more plenums 32 span and occupy at least a portion of the distance between the channel members 26A-B.

[0039] When the rigid wall panels 30 are assembled in one of the horizontal rows 28, the first face 44 may be an inner face and the second face 46 may be an outer face, or vice versa. A distance from the upper edge 48 to the lower edge 50 is a height of the rigid wall panel 30, and in various embodiments, the height of the rigid wall panel 30 is less than a height of the channel members 26A-B. In embodiments with a plurality of horizontal rows 28, the rigid wall panels 30 of the horizontal rows 28 may have the same height, although they need not be the same height in other embodiments. As a non-limiting example, the rigid wall panels 30 of horizontal row 28A may be a first height and the rigid wall panels 30 of horizontal row 28B may be a second height different from the first height.

[0040] In certain embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 3, the upper edge 48 and the lower edge 50 may include complementary mating elements 52A-B. In the embodiment illustrated, mating element 52A includes a ridge 54 and mating element 52B includes a slot 56, although in other embodiments mating element 52A may be the slot 56 and mating element 52B may be the ridge 54. In other embodiments, other suitable mating elements 52A-B may be utilized, such as but not limited to other tongue and groove-type mating elements. The complementary mating elements 52A-B may be utilized to join vertically adjacent rigid wall panels 30, optionally such that the first faces 44 of vertically adjacent rigid wall panels 30 are flush (or substantially even or parallel, within accepted tolerances) and / or such that the second faces 46 of vertically adjacent rigid wall panels 30 are flush. In various embodiments, when the wall segment 24 is assembled, the engaged mating elements 52 of vertically adjacent rigid wall panels 30 may minimize and / or prevent water and / or other elements from intruding through the wall segment 24 via the joint formed. Optionally, and as illustrated in FIG. 3, a sealing member 58, such as but not limited to a gasket or other sealing member, may be provided on one or both of the mating elements 52 and / or the edges 48, 50 to further seal the joint formed between vertically adjacent rigid wall panels 30.

[0041] Optionally, when the wall segment 24 is assembled, anchoring features may be utilized with the top-most rigid wall panel 30 (e.g., to secure the wall segment 24 to one or more horizontal supports 16, a cross support, and / or as otherwise desired). Additionally, or alternatively, anchoring features optionally may be utilized with the lower-most rigid wall panel 30 (e.g., to secure the wall segment 24 to the ground, a cross support, and / or as otherwise desired).

[0042] The rigid wall panels 30 may be constructed from rigid materials as desired. In certain cases, at least the faces 44, 46 are constructed from a rigid material, although in otherembodiments, the rigid wall panels 30 may be monolithically formed from a rigid material. As non-limiting examples, the rigid wall panels 30 may be constructed from metal, wood, composites, fiberglass, and / or other materials as desired. In some non-limiting examples, the rigid wall panels 30 may be constructed from a metal, such as but not limited to steel and / or aluminum. In other embodiments, the rigid wall panels 30 may be a composite with rigid outer walls defining the faces 44, 46 and an interior material retained therebetween. The interior material may be various materials as desired, optionally to improve and / or provide performance characteristics to the rigid wall panels 30. As non-limiting examples, the interior material may be an insulation material, waterproofing material, fireproofing material, etc. In one nonlimiting example, the rigid wall panels 30 may have a composition such that they have an insulation R- value of at least R-8, such as at least R-9, such as at least R-10, such as at least R- 11, such as at least R-12, and / or such as at least R-13.

[0043] The plenums 32 of the wall segment 24 generally include a center portion 64 with features for engaging one or more ducts 61 of an environmental control system 63. In some embodiments, the features include one or more apertures 72 for connecting with one or more ducts 61. The one or more apertures 72 may be various sizes and / or configured to connect with various size ducts 61. In one non-limiting example, the one or more apertures 72 may be sized to engage 20-inch diameter ducts 61. In certain embodiments, and as illustrated in plenum 32 A, the one or more apertures 72 may face in a generally horizontal direction (e.g., inwards or outwards from the wall segment 24). Additionally, or alternatively, and as illustrated in plenum 32B, a hood 78 may be included with the center portion 64, thereby providing the apertures 72 in other orientations such as in a vertical direction (e.g., upwards or downwards). Optionally, and as illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15, one or more sides of the plenum 32 may include a grate 74 and / or other feature at least partially controlling a flow of air through the plenum 32. Optionally, one or more handles 76 may be provided on the center portion 64 to facilitate handling of the plenum 32 by a user.

[0044] In addition to the center portion 64, the plenums 32 include a perimeter portion 66 defining a perimeter channel 68. In certain embodiments, the perimeter channel 68 includes one or more side channel portions for engaging rigid wall panels 30 within the same horizontal row 28 as the plenum 32 (see, e.g., FIG. 5). The side channel portions may be defined by, on, or at side edges of the plenum 32. The perimeter channel 68 may additionally include upper and / or lower channel portions for engaging rigid wall panels 30 of vertically adjacent horizontal rows 28. The upper and / or lower channel portions may be defined by, on, or at upperand / or lower edges of the plenum 32. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-15, when the plenum 32 is provided within a horizontal row 28, the plenum 32 (through the perimeter channel 68) at least partially receives portions of adjacent rigid wall panels 30 and optionally overlaps portions of the faces 44 / 46. Such positioning and / or overlap may improve the stability of the plenum 32 on the wall segment 24 and / or may minimize or eliminate areas of potential intrusion by water or other elements through the wall segment 24. In various embodiments, the plenum 32 with the perimeter channel 68 may facilitate the positioning of the plenum 32 within a single horizontal row 28, thereby eliminating any need to cut vertically adjacent panels 30. The plenum 32 with the perimeter channel 68 may further minimize cutting of panel 30 within the same horizontal row 28 compared to traditional approaches, as only a length of the panels 30 may need to be changed to accommodate the plenum 32 within the horizontal row 28 (see, e.g., FIG. 8).

[0045] The plenums 32 of the wall segment 24 may be constructed from various materials as desired. In certain embodiments, the plenums 32 are a rigid material, such as but not limited to a metal.

[0046] Referring to FIGS. 1-9, a method of assembling the temporary building 10 includes the assembling one or more wall segments 24. In certain embodiments, the method includes supporting a first channel member 26 A on a first vertical support 14 and a second channel member 26B on a second vertical support 14 such that the vertical channels 34 face each other (see, e g., FIG. 2).

[0047] In various embodiments, the method includes forming a plurality of horizontal rows 28 of rigid wall panels 30. In certain embodiments, forming the plurality of horizontal rows 28 includes forming at least two horizontal rows 28, such as at least three horizontal rows 28, such as at least four horizontal rows 28, such as at least five horizontal rows 28, and / or such as at least six horizontal rows 28. In certain embodiments, forming the plurality of horizontal rows 28 includes engaging mating elements 52 of vertically adjacent rigid wall panels 30.

[0048] In some embodiments, forming one horizontal row 28 of the plurality of horizontal rows 28 includes positioning opposing edges 60, 62 of a rigid wall panel 30 within the vertical channels 34 (see, e.g., FIGS. 4 and 7).

[0049] In certain embodiments, forming one horizontal row 28 of the plurality of horizontal rows 28 includes providing a plenum 32 within the horizontal row 28 (see, e.g., FIGS. 5, 6, 8, and 9). In such embodiments, the method optionally includes forming two wall panels of adesired length by cutting one or more panels 30 (see, e.g., FIG. 8). Forming the horizontal row 28 with the plenum 32 may include positioning the edge 60 of a first wall panel 30 within one vertical channel 34 and the edge 62 of a second wall panel 30 within an opposing vertical channel 34. The method may include positioning the plenum 32 such that the edge 62 of the first wall panel 30 and the edge 60 of the second wall panel 30 are within the perimeter channel 68 of the plenum 32. Optionally, the method includes positioning the plenum 32 such that a portion of an upper edge 48 of a vertically adjacent and lower panel 30 is within the perimeter channel 68 and / or such that a portion of a lower edge 50 of a vertically adjacent and upper panel 30 is within the perimeter channel 68. Optionally, the method includes positioning the plenum 32 such that the plenum 32 is contained within a single horizontal row 28. Optionally, the method includes positioning the plenum 32 such that the plenum 32 at least partially overlaps horizontally adjacent rigid wall panels 30 and vertically adjacent rigid wall panels 30 while at least the center portion 64 is contained within a single horizontal row 28.

[0050] The method optionally may include connecting one or more ducts 61 with the plenums 32 such that an environmental control system, such as but not limited to an HVAC system 67 (see, e.g., FIG. 11), is connected to the temporary building 10. Such connections may allow the environmental control system to control environmental conditions (e.g., heat or temperature, humidity, dampness, ventilation, etc.) within the temporary structure.

[0051] The systems and methods described herein provide a flexible and modular approach to provide a wall for a temporary building while reducing installation time and / or waste generated during installation. As a non-limiting example, the plenums contained within a horizontal row may allow for the plenum to be provided in any horizontal row and / or at any relative location along a horizontal row as desired while only requiring a change in length of wall panels within that horizontal row. In other words, vertically adjacent wall panels need not be modified to accommodate the plenum. As a further non-limiting example, the rigid wall panels in conjunction with the channel members may provide a stable arrangement of components which further minimizes and / or prevents the intrusion of elements through the wall segment. The systems and methods described herein may further allow for various arrangements of plenums, wall plates, and / or other components as desired. Various other benefits and advantages may be realized with the systems and methods provided herein, and the aforementioned advantages should not be considered limiting.

[0052] A collection of exemplary embodiments is provided below, including at least some explicitly enumerated as an “Illustration” providing additional description of a variety ofexample embodiments in accordance with the concepts described herein. These illustrations are not meant to be mutually exclusive, exhaustive, or restrictive; and the disclosure not limited to these example illustrations but rather encompasses all possible modifications and variations within the scope of the issued claims and their equivalents.

[0053] Illustration 1. A temporary building or structure, the temporary building or structure comprising a wall segment, the wall segment comprising: a first channel member and a second channel member, each configured to be supported on a corresponding upright post, wherein the first channel member and the second channel member each define a vertical channel, and wherein the vertical channels face each other; and a wall panel comprising opposing end portions, wherein a first end portion of the opposing end portions is positioned within the vertical channel of the first channel member and a second end portion of the opposing end portions is positioned within the vertical channel of the second channel member.

[0054] Illustration 2. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein the wall panel is a first wall panel of a plurality of wall panels, and wherein the plurality of wall panels are assembled in a vertical direction such that each wall panel of the plurality of wall panels is arranged in a horizontal row extending between the vertical channels.

[0055] Illustration 3. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, further comprising a first upright post and a second upright post, wherein the first channel member is secured to the first upright post and the second channel member is secured to the second upright post.

[0056] Illustration 4. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein a height of each vertical channel is greater than a height of the wall panel.

[0057] Illustration 5. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, further comprising a plenum configured to engage one or more ducts, wherein the wall panel and the plenum are arranged in a horizontal row.

[0058] Illustration 6. A temporary building or structure, the temporary building or structure comprising a wall segment, the wall segment comprising: a first wall panel arranged in a first horizontal row and comprising an upper edge and a lower edge; and a second wall panel arranged in a second horizontal row above the first horizontal row, the second wall panel comprising an upper edge and a lower edge, wherein the upper edge of the first wall panelcomprises a ridge and the lower edge of the second wall panel comprises a slot configured to receive the ridge, or wherein the upper edge of the first wall panel comprises the slot and the lower edge of the second wall panel comprises the ridge positionable within the slot.

[0059] Illustration 7. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein each of the first wall panel and the second wall panel comprises a first face and a second face, and wherein the first face and the second face comprise a rigid material.

[0060] Illustration 8. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein the rigid material comprises a metal.

[0061] Illustration 9. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein the rigid material comprises steel.

[0062] Illustration 10. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein each of the first wall panel and the second wall panel comprises an insulating core positioned between rigid walls.

[0063] Illustration 11. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein each of the first wall panel and the second wall panel have an insulation R-vahie of at least 13.

[0064] Illustration 12. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, further comprising a sealing member between the upper edge of the first wall panel and the lower edge of the second wall panel.

[0065] Illustration 13. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein each of the first wall panel and the second wall panel comprises an inner face and an outer face, wherein the inner faces are flush in a vertical direction and / or wherein the outer faces are flush in the vertical direction.

[0066] Illustration 14. A temporary building or structure, the temporary building or structure comprising a wall segment, the wall segment comprising: a first wall panel arranged in a first horizontal row; a second wall panel arranged in a second horizontal row; and a plenum arranged in the first horizontal row, the plenum configured to engage one or more ducts.

[0067] Illustration 15. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein a length of the first horizontal row and a length of the second horizonal row are the same.

[0068] Illustration 16. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein the second wall panel extends above or below both the first wall panel and the plenum.

[0069] Illustration 17. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, further comprising a third wall panel arranged in a third horizontal row, wherein the second wall panel extends above both the first wall panel and the plenum and the third wall panel extends below both the first wall panel and the plenum.

[0070] Illustration 18. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein the first wall panel, the second wall panel, and the third wall panel all have a same height.

[0071] Illustration 19. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein the plenum overlaps a portion of an inner face or an outer face of the second wall panel and / or the third wall panel.

[0072] Illustration 20. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein the plenum comprises a side edge defining a side channel and an upper edge or a lower edge defining an upper channel or a lower channel, wherein a portion of the second wall panel is received within the side channel and a portion of the first wall panel is received within the upper channel or lower channel.

[0073] Illustration 21. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein the plenum is configured to engage at least two ducts.

[0074] Illustration 22. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, further comprising: a first channel member and a second channel member, each configured to be supported on a corresponding upright post, wherein the first channel member and the second channel member each define a vertical channels, and wherein the vertical channels face each other, wherein a side portion of the first wall panel and a side portion of the second wall panel are both received within the vertical channel of the first channel member or the vertical channel of the second channel member.

[0075] Illustration 23. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein the plenum further comprises a hood.

[0076] Illustration 24. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein the plenum comprises a rigid material.

[0077] Illustration 25. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein a first side of the plenum comprises a duct interface with at least one opening, and wherein a second side of the plenum comprises a grate with a plurality of openings covering the at least one opening.

[0078] Illustration 26. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein the first wall panel and the second wall panel are rigid.

[0079] Illustration 27. A temporary building or structure, the temporary building or structure comprising a wall segment, the wall segment comprising: a first channel member defining a first vertical channel; a second channel member defining a second vertical channel, wherein the first vertical channel faces the second vertical channel; a first horizontal row extending between the first and second vertical channels, the first horizontal row comprising a first wall panel and a plenum; and a second horizontal row above or below the first horizontal row and extending between the first and second vertical channels, the second horizontal row comprising a second wall panel.

[0080] Illustration 28. A temporary building or structure, the temporary building or structure comprising a wall segment, the wall segment comprising: a first upright post; a second upright post; a first channel member on the first upright post and defining a first vertical channel; a second channel member on the second upright post and defining a second vertical channel, wherein the first vertical channel faces the second vertical channel; a first horizontal row extending between the first and second vertical channels, the first horizontal row comprising a first wall panel and a plenum; and a second horizontal row above or below the first horizontal row and extending between the first and second vertical channels, the second horizontal row comprising a second wall panel.

[0081] Illustration 29. A plenum for a wall segment of a temporary building or structure, the plenum comprising: a center portion defining at least one aperture; a side edge defining a side channel; and an upper edge or a lower edge defining an upper channel or a lower channel, wherein the side channel is configured to receive a portion of a first wall panel and the upper channel or the lower channel is configured to receive a portion of a second wall panel.

[0082] Illustration 30. A temporary building structure comprising a wall segment and / or plenum of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations.

[0083] Illustration 31. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein the wall segment is a first wall segment, and wherein the temporary building or structure further comprises a second wall segment comprising at least one fabric or flexible material.

[0084] Illustration 32. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein the flexible material comprises a fabric.

[0085] Illustration 33. A method of assembling a temporary building or structure, the method comprising: supporting a first channel member on a first upright post, wherein the first channel member defines a first vertical channel; supporting a second channel member on a second upright post, wherein the second channel member defines a second vertical channel, and wherein the first vertical channel faces the second vertical channel; and forming at least two horizontal rows, each horizontal row comprising a wall panel, wherein forming at least two horizontal rows comprises: forming a first horizontal row with a first wall panel and a plenum; and forming a second horizontal row above or below the first horizontal row and extending between the first and second vertical channels, the second horizontal row comprising a second wall panel.

[0086] Illustration 34. The temporary building or structure of any preceding or subsequent illustration or combination of illustrations, wherein the first channel member and the second channel members are attached to the upright posts and / or are monolithic and / or integrally formed with the upright posts.

[0087] The subject matter of embodiments of the present disclosure is described here with specificity to meet statutory requirements, but this description is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of the claims. The claimed subject matter may be embodied in other ways, may include different elements or steps, and may be used in conjunction with other existing or future technologies. This description should not be interpreted as implying any particular order or arrangement among or between various steps or elements except when the order of individual steps or arrangement of elements is explicitly described. Directional references such as “up,” “down,” “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “lateral,” “longitudinal,” “front,” and “back,” among others, are intended to refer to the orientation as illustrated and described in the figure (or figures) to which the components and directions are referencing.

[0088] The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, or gradients thereof, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the invention, and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

[0089] The above-described aspects are merely possible examples of implementations, merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure. Many variations and modifications can be made to the above-described embodiment(s) without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the present disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of the present disclosure, and all possible claims to individual aspects or combinations of elements or steps are intended to be supported by the present disclosure. Moreover, although specific terms are employed herein, as well as in the claims that follow, they are used only in a generic and descriptive sense, and not for the purposes of limiting the described embodiments, nor the claims that follow.

Claims

CLAIMSThat which is claimed:

1. A temporary building or structure, the temporary building or structure comprising a wall segment, the wall segment comprising: a first channel member and a second channel member, each configured to be supported on a corresponding upright post, wherein the first channel member and the second channel member each define a vertical channel, and wherein the vertical channels face each other; and a wall panel comprising opposing end portions, wherein a first end portion of the opposing end portions is positioned within the vertical channel of the first channel member and a second end portion of the opposing end portions is positioned within the vertical channel of the second channel member.

2. The temporary building or structure of claim 1, wherein the wall panel is a first wall panel of a plurality of wall panels, and wherein the plurality of wall panels are assembled in a vertical direction such that each wall panel of the plurality of wall panels is arranged in a horizontal row extending between the vertical channels.

3. The temporary building or structure of claim 1, further comprising a first upright post and a second upright post, wherein the first channel member is secured to the first upright post and the second channel member is secured to the second upright post.

4. The temporary building or structure of claim 1, wherein a height of each vertical channel is greater than a height of the wall panel.

5. The temporary building or structure of claim 1, further comprising a plenum configured to engage one or more ducts, wherein the wall panel and the plenum are arranged in a horizontal row.

6. A temporary building or structure, the temporary building or structure comprising a wall segment, the wall segment comprising: a first wall panel arranged in a first horizontal row and comprising an upper edge and a lower edge; anda second wall panel arranged in a second horizontal row above the first horizontal row, the second wall panel comprising an upper edge and a lower edge, wherein the upper edge of the first wall panel comprises a ridge and the lower edge of the second wall panel comprises a slot configured to receive the ridge, or wherein the upper edge of the first wall panel comprises the slot and the lower edge of the second wall panel comprises the ridge positionable within the slot.

7. The temporary building or structure of claim 6, wherein each of the first wall panel and the second wall panel comprises a first face and a second face, and wherein the first face and the second face comprise a rigid material.

8. The temporary building or structure of claim 7, wherein the rigid material comprises a metal.

9. The temporary building or structure of claim 7, wherein the rigid material comprises steel.

10. The temporary building or structure of claim 6, wherein each of the first wall panel and the second wall panel comprises an insulating core positioned between rigid walls.

11. The temporary building or structure of claim 6, wherein each of the first wall panel and the second wall panel have an insulation R- value of at least 13.

12. The temporary building or structure of claim 6, further comprising a sealing member between the upper edge of the first wall panel and the lower edge of the second wall panel.

13. The temporary building or structure of claim 6, wherein each of the first wall panel and the second wall panel comprises an inner face and an outer face, wherein the inner faces are flush in a vertical direction and / or wherein the outer faces are flush in the vertical direction.

14. A temporary building or structure, the temporary building or structure comprising a wall segment, the wall segment comprising: a first wall panel arranged in a first horizontal row; a second wall panel arranged in a second horizontal row; anda plenum arranged in the first horizontal row, the plenum configured to engage one or more ducts.

15. The temporary building or structure of claim 14, wherein a length of the first horizontal row and a length of the second horizonal row are the same.

16. The temporary building or structure of claim 14, wherein the second wall panel extends above or below both the first wall panel and the plenum.

17. The temporary building or structure of claim 16, further comprising a third wall panel arranged in a third horizontal row, wherein the second wall panel extends above both the first wall panel and the plenum, and the third wall panel extends below both the first wall panel and the plenum.

18. The temporary building or structure of claim 17, wherein the first wall panel, the second wall panel, and the third wall panel all have a same height.

19. The temporary building or structure of claim 17, wherein the plenum overlaps a portion of an inner face or an outer face of the second wall panel and / or the third wall panel.

20. The temporary building or structure of claim 14, wherein the plenum comprises a side edge defining a side channel and an upper edge or a lower edge defining an upper channel or a lower channel, wherein a portion of the second wall panel is received within the side channel and a portion of the first wall panel is received within the upper channel or lower channel.

21. The temporary building or structure of claim 14, wherein the plenum is configured to engage at least two ducts.

22. The temporary building or structure of claim 14, further comprising: a first channel member and a second channel member, each configured to be supported on a corresponding upright post, wherein the first channel member and the second channel member each define a vertical channel, and wherein the vertical channels face each other,wherein a side portion of the first wall panel and a side portion of the second wall panel are both received within the vertical channel of the first channel member or the vertical channel of the second channel member.

23. The temporary building or structure of claim 14, wherein the plenum further comprises a hood.

24. The temporary building or structure of claim 14, wherein the plenum comprises a rigid material.

25. The temporary building or structure of claim 14, wherein a first side of the plenum comprises a duct interface with at least one opening, and wherein a second side of the plenum comprises a grate with a plurality of openings covering the at least one opening.

26. The temporary building or structure of claim 14, wherein the first wall panel and the second wall panel are rigid.

27. A temporary building or structure, the temporary building or structure comprising a wall segment, the wall segment comprising: a first channel member defining a first vertical channel; a second channel member defining a second vertical channel, wherein the first vertical channel faces the second vertical channel; a first horizontal row extending between the first and second vertical channels, the first horizontal row comprising a first wall panel and a plenum; and a second horizontal row above or below the first horizontal row and extending between the first and second vertical channels, the second horizontal row comprising a second wall panel.

28. A temporary building or structure, the temporary building or structure comprising a wall segment, the wall segment comprising: a first upright post; a second upright post; a first channel member on the first upright post and defining a first vertical channel;a second channel member on the second upright post and defining a second vertical channel, wherein the first vertical channel faces the second vertical channel; a first horizontal row extending between the first and second vertical channels, the first horizontal row comprising a first wall panel and a plenum; and a second horizontal row above or below the first horizontal row and extending between the first and second vertical channels, the second horizontal row comprising a second wall panel.

29. A plenum for a wall segment of a temporary building or structure, the plenum comprising: a center portion defining at least one aperture; a side edge defining a side channel; and an upper edge or a lower edge defining an upper channel or a lower channel, wherein the side channel is configured to receive a portion of a first wall panel, and the upper channel or the lower channel is configured to receive a portion of a second wall panel.

30. A method of assembling a temporary building or structure, the method comprising: supporting a first channel member on a first upright post, wherein the first channel member defines a first vertical channel; supporting a second channel member on a second upright post, wherein the second channel member defines a second vertical channel, and wherein the first vertical channel faces the second vertical channel; and forming at least two horizontal rows, each horizontal row comprising a wall panel, wherein forming at least two horizontal rows comprises: forming a first horizontal row with a first wall panel and a plenum; and forming a second horizontal row above or below the first horizontal row and extending between the first and second vertical channels, the second horizontal row comprising a second wall panel.

Images