Building systems, apparatuses, and methods

Abstract

The present disclosure provides building techniques, apparatuses, and methods for building and assembling structures. In certain aspects, a hinge node component comprises a base plate comprising: a flange extending from the base, the flange comprising: a hole extending from a first side of the flange to a second side of the flange; and a plurality of position locking holes positioned around the hole, and one or more studs extending from the base arranged to fasten to one or more of a plurality of mating components.

Description

BUILDING SYSTEMS, APPARATUSES, AND METHODSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of prior filed U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 708,717 filed on October 17, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.INTRODUCTIONField of the Disclosure

[0002] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to building techniques, apparatuses, and methods for building and assembling structures.Description of Related Art

[0003] The traditional approach to building design and construction involves building components that are designed and built as part of a particularized system rather than as independent, reusable objects with predefined attributes. In conventional construction, projects follow a linear, sequential approach where each phase of the project progresses step by step. Each part of the building (e.g., walls, floors, mechanical systems) is designed in isolation without modularity or predefined attributes. The design is typically customized for each project, with limited reusability across different projects. These methods have been widely used for centuries and are particularly common in the construction industry, including residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects.

[0004] The sequential nature of the traditional process follows a linear path from conceptual design to detailed design, procurement, and ultimately construction. This process builds in inefficiencies at every stage. Many components are custom designed for the specific project, often requiring unique specifications and custom fabrication. Typical construction activities take place on-site, where components are built and assembled in real time. The time to build such components on site could be better used assembling and erecting components. Traditional methods rely primarily on 2D drawings or basic CAD models, with less emphasis on digital collaboration tools like building information modeling (“BIM”). Because phases are done sequentially, the entire process can take more time than more modern approaches, such as design-build or integrated projectBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO delivery. Also, changes during construction can be costly and difficult to manage because the design is finalized before construction begins. And, because the design teams and build teams often work separately, there is a higher risk of misunderstandings, miscommunication, omitted information, etc. that can lead to expensive mistakes during construction.

[0005] Therefore, traditional design and construction could significantly benefit from an increase in modularity, reusability, and digital integration. Without such improvements, changes in one area (e.g., structural design) often require significant coordination and redesign of other systems, which can slow down the process and increase the project cost significantly.

[0006] Accordingly, improvements to design processes and building construction processes that can address one or more of the aforementioned problems of current construction is desirable. Improved methods for constructing building components is also desirable. Improved methods for constructing assemblies for buildings is also desirable. Improved apparatus for facilitating and enabling various features and benefits of such system and methods is also desirable.SUMMARY

[0007] Certain aspects provide a hinge node component comprises a base plate comprising: a flange extending from the base, the flange comprising: a hole extending from a first side of the flange to a second side of the flange; and a plurality of position locking holes positioned around the hole, and one or more studs extending from the base arranged to fasten to one or more of a plurality of mating components.

[0008] Certain aspects provide a structural member comprising: a member element comprising a length having a first end and a second end; a first hinge node fastened to a first end of the member element, the first hinge node comprising: a base plate comprising: a flange extending from the base, the flange comprising: a hole extending from a first side of the flange to a second side of the flange; and a plurality of position locking holes positioned around the hole, and one or more studs extending from the base arranged to fasten to one or more of a plurality of mating components.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBX0001WO

[0009] Certain aspects provide a hinge component comprising: a first hinge node comprising: a first base plate comprising: a first flange extending from the base, the first flange comprising: a first hole extending from a first side of the first flange to a second side of the first flange; and a first plurality of position locking holes positioned around the first hole, and one or more studs extending from the base arranged to fasten to one or more of a plurality of mating components; a second hinge node comprising: a second base plate comprising: the second flange extending from the base, the second flange comprising: a second hole extending from a third side of the second flange to a fourth side of the second flange; and a second plurality of position locking holes positioned around the second hole, and one or more studs extending from the second base arranged to fasten to one or more of a plurality of mating components; and at least one selectively removeable fastener extending through a first position locking hole of the first plurality of position locking holes and a second position locking hole of the second plurality of position locking holes.

[0010] Certain aspects provide a method of assembly of a frame structure comprising at least two frame elements selectively joined by respective hinge nodes, the method comprising: positioning a folded frame assembly comprising a first frame element comprising a first hinge node coupled to a second hinge node of a second frame element; removing one or more fasteners from a plurality of position locking holes of the first hinge node and the second hinged node; rotating at least one of the first frame element or the second frame element to a deployed positioned, wherein an angle formed between the first frame element and the second frame element in the deployed position is different from an angle formed in the folded frame assembly; and securing the one or more fasteners into one or more of the plurality of position locking holes of the first hinge node and the second hinged node.

[0011] Certain aspects provide a method of transporting an assembly of a frame structure comprising at least two frame elements selectively joined by respective hinge nodes, the method comprising: forming an assembly of a frame structure by securing a first hinge node of a first frame element to a second hinge node of a second frame element with one or more fasteners extending through one or more of a plurality of position locking holes of respective ones of the first hinge node and the second hinge node, such that the first frame element is in a position parallel to the second frame element; loadingBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO the assembly of the frame structure on a transport vehicle; extracting the assembly of the frame structure from the transport vehicle; and deploying the frame structure into a deployed position by adjusting an angle formed between the first hinge node and the second hinge node by rotating the first frame element with respect to the second frame element about the first hinge node rotatably coupled to the second hinge node.

[0012] Certain aspects provide a method of transporting an assembly of a frame structure comprising at least two frame elements selectively joined by respective hinge nodes, the method comprising: forming an assembly of a frame structure by securing a first hinge node of a first frame element to a second hinge node of a second frame element with one or more fasteners extending through one or more of a plurality of position locking holes of respective ones of the first hinge node and the second hinge node, such that the first frame element is in a position parallel to the second frame element; loading the assembly of the frame structure on a transport vehicle; extracting the assembly of the frame structure from the transport vehicle; and deploying the frame structure into a deployed position by adjusting an angle formed between the first hinge node and the second hinge node by rotating the first frame element with respect to the second frame element about the first hinge node rotatably coupled to the second hinge node.

[0013] Certain aspects provide a hinge node and hanger assembly comprising: a hinge node comprising: a base plate comprising: a flange extending from the base, the flange comprising: a hole extending from a first side of the flange to a second side of the flange; and a plurality of position locking holes positioned around the hole, and one or more studs extending from the base arranged to fasten to one or more of a plurality of mating components; a hanger comprising: a first member coupled to and forming an angle with a second member, one or more hanger holes formed through the first member; and one or more anchoring holes formed through the second member and configured to receive one or more fasteners for coupling to a frame element, wherein: the one or more hanger holes receive one or more studs; and one or more fasteners coupled to the one or more studs secure the hanger to the hinge node.

[0014] Certain aspects provide a structural assembly comprising: a first frame assembly comprising a first hinge node of a first frame element coupled to a second hinge node of a second frame element in a first deployed position; a second frame assemblyBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO comprising a third hinge node of a third frame element coupled to a fourth hinge node of a fourth frame element in a second deployed position; a fifth frame element comprising: a first hanger coupled to a first end of the fifth frame element and a second hanger coupled to a second end of the fifth frame element, the first hanger and the second hanger each comprising one or more hanger holes, wherein: the one or more hanger holes of the first hanger receive one or more studs of the first hinge node; the one or more hanger holes of the second hanger receive one or more studs of the second hinge node; and a plurality of fasteners coupled to respective ones of the one or more studs of the first hinge node and the one or more studs of the second hinge node respectively secure the first hanger to the first hanger and the second hanger to the second hanger.

[0015] For a better understanding of the aspects and improvements described herein and of the advantages and objectives attained through its use, reference should be made to the figures and to the accompanying descriptive matter, including the various appendices included and referenced herein, in which there is described example embodiments and additional information. This summary is merely provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described below in the detailed description, and is not intended to identify key or essential features of any claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in limiting the scope of any claimed subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0016] The appended figures depict certain features of the various aspects described herein and are not to be considered limiting of the scope of this disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 1 depicts illustrative exploded view of a residential chassis.

[0018] FIG. 2 depicts illustrative commercial chassis.

[0019] FIG. 3 depicts illustrative schematics of assembling a frame assembly at a building site.

[0020] FIG. 4 depicts illustrative residential chassis.

[0021] FIG. 5 depicts an illustrative frame assembly.

[0022] FIG. 6 depicts an illustrative schematic view of a hinge component.

[0023] FIGS. 7A-7B depict an example hinge component.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO

[0024] FIG. 8 depicts an exploded view of various hinge components and a plurality of accessories.

[0025] FIG. 9 depicts a plurality of various hinge component assemblies.

[0026] FIG. 10 depicts illustrative hinge node component and hanger assemblies.

[0027] FIG. 11 depicts an illustrative locking plate.

[0028] FIG. 12 depicts an illustrative two part adapter.

[0029] FIG. 13 depicts an illustrative example of an orthogonal adapter.

[0030] FIG. 14 depicts a plurality of hinge node components connected to respective ones of a frame member.

[0031] FIGS. 15 A and 15B depict an illustrative configuration of a portion of a frame assembly in a first position and in a second position.

[0032] FIGS. 16A and 16B depict another illustrative configuration of a portion of a frame assembly in a first position and in a second position.

[0033] FIGS. 17A and 17B depict another illustrative configuration of a portion of a frame assembly in a first position and then in a second position where an orthogonal adapter hanger and hinge node components are utilized.

[0034] FIGS. 18A and 18B depict another illustrative configuration of a portion of a frame assembly in a first position and then in a second position where an orthogonal adapter is utilized with hinge node components.

[0035] FIG. 19 depicts some illustrative hanger-hinge node component assemblies for frame members.

[0036] FIGS. 20A and 20B depict an illustrative example of a portion of a frame assembly in a folded position and in a deployed position.

[0037] FIG. 21 depicts some illustrative examples of different types of adapters.

[0038] FIG. 22 depicts one method of assembly of a frame assembly.

[0039] FIG. 23 depicts another method of assembly of a frame assembly.

[0040] FIG. 24 depicts another method of assembly of a frame assembly.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO

[0041] FIG. 25 depicts another method of assembly of a frame assembly.

[0042] FIG. 26 depicts an illustrative jig for assembling frames from frame members and nodes.

[0043] FIG. 27 depicts a set of schematics showing example deployment of various assemblies according to alternative embodiments.

[0044] FIG. 28 depicts a schematic showing how various frame assemblies, for example, as depicted and described herein may be packaged for shipping to the job site.

[0045] FIG. 29 depicts a set of schematics showing various link components.

[0046] FIG. 30 depicts a set of schematics 2600 showing just a few of the many types of supplemental deployments enabled by the system.

[0047] FIG. 31 depicts a set of schematics depicting additional embodiments of jigs.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] Aspects of the present disclosure provide systems for designing, manufacturing, and constructing a building, and methods and apparatuses corresponding to the same. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to improved systems, methods, and apparatus for designing, planning, estimating, scheduling, and constructing buildings, and building assemblies, of various natures, sizes, and purposes.

[0049] For the sake of convenience, the techniques described herein are discussed and depicted for use in mass timber construction. However, the system and its methods and apparatus are not limited to such construction type. The techniques and corresponding components described herein may be utilized in a variety of construction types, such as metal frame (e.g., aluminum, steel, or other similar materials), concrete, wood, glulam (e.g., glued laminated timber), and the like. The techniques may be used in constructing projects including residential, commercial, industrial, or other forms of materials.

[0050] As used herein, the term “component” refers to a basic, individual part or unit of the system. The component can be anything from a structural element like a beam or column to a connector piece like a node, a hanger, a link, an adapter, or the like. In general, there are three categories of components: a framing member, a node, and a link. A framing member is a structural component in building construction, such as a stud, joist, rafter,Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO column, beam, floor, wall panel, or the like, that provides the skeletal support for a structure. For example, the framing member may be a mass timber part designed to work within a chassis, which may be the structural framework of a building.

[0051] As used herein, the term “node” refers to a junction or connection point where different components, such as framing members come together to create assemblies and sub-assemblies including but not limited to chassis. Nodes may serve to distribute loads and connect various components. Some nodes may be a hinge component. In certain aspects, framing members may be coupled together using one or more hinge components that enable frame assemblies to be folded for transport and then unfolded to a deployed position and assembled with one or more other components to build a structure. Nodes can also involve connections between beams and columns in a chassis. A link is a physical component that creates the interface between the chassis and other building systems. Links can join wall panels that make up the exterior envelope or the attachment of mechanical system components to the structure. One form of link, for example, called a “rail”, may be an interface between the chassis and an exterior envelope. Another example of a component is a socket component, which can be used to couple a chassis to a foundation. For example, a link may refer to tension rods and / or tension rod systems. Tension rod systems, which include one or more tension rods, may be a high-strength steel rod used to transfer tensile (pulling) forces in large structures like timber frames, trusses, and suspended buildings. Tension rods act as a structural component that resists being stretched or pulled apart, providing stability and integrity by connecting and bracing elements like frame members, such as beams and trusses.

[0052] A frame assembly is a group of components that are joined together to form a functional assembly within the building. Frame assemblies can be prefabricated or preassembled and then installed on-site. Alternatively, frame assemblies can be both assembled and installed on-site. Frame assemblies consist of multiple components put together using nodes to form a specific structural subsystem. These frame assemblies are typically designed for efficiency and can be, if desired, pre-fabricated off-site for easy on-site installation. As such, frame assemblies can be built in a factory-controlled environment to reduce on-site construction time and ensure higher quality and precision. The frame assemblies can then be transported to the site and installed into the chassis framework.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley el al Atty Dkt. No. TBX0001WO

[0053] A chassis is the structural system formed by components and frame assemblies. It provides structural support and ensures the stability of the entire building system. The chassis serves as the main structural framework of the building. The chassis can interface with other structural systems, including steel and reinforced concrete, such as in the foundation and other parts of the structure. The chassis provides the load-bearing capability of the building, ensuring that it can support the self-weight of the various components and assemblies, as well as external live loads and environmental loads like wind, earthquakes, or snow.

[0054] Certain aspects will now be described in more detail with reference to the figures.Building Structures and Frame Assemblies

[0055] FIG. 1 depicts illustrative residential chassis 10 and FIG. 2 depicts illustrative commercial chassis 50, such as a multi-family complex, an apartment complex, an office complex, or the like. The chassis 10 and 50 are composed of a plurality of components that may be assembled into sub-assemblies at a manufacturing facility, shipped to a build location, then unpacked, for example, by unfolding frame assemblies enabled by nodes, such as hinge components, and fixed into place with other sub-assemblies to form the chassis 10 and 50. The modularity of the chassis 10 and 50 enables more expedient and repeatable construction processes at a building site compared to traditional processes where raw materials such as uncut lumber, fasteners, and the like need to be sized, cut, and assembled.

[0056] For example, the illustrative residential chassis 10 depicted in FIG. 1 may be a single-family dwelling according to an embodiment herein, which is further depicted in FIG. 4 as a constructed chassis. The residential chassis 10 may comprise a plurality of sub-assemblies 30. The residential chassis 10 may have a foundation 11 of concrete where the sub-assemblies 30 are assembled on and fixed to. The sub-assemblies 30 may include one or more frame assemblies 14, 21, such as a roof assembly 14 and / or wall assembly 21 that are connected together via one or more nodes. The one or more frame assemblies 14, 21 may include components such as a link component 12 or 22, an enclosure end 13 or 23, an enclosure roof panel 15, an enclosure infill 16, an enclosure corner infill 17, an enclosure window panel 18, a solid enclosure panel 19, an enclosure door panel 20, or aBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO link component corner socket 26. The end of the residential chassis 10 may also include enclosure assemblies such as a gable end 25 or a solid end 24. For example, the residential chassis 10 shown includes multiple types of frame assemblies and enclosure assemblies as well as link components and infdl assemblies. These and other physical structures can be used in various numbers, sizes, orientations, materials, shapes, and configurations to create any one of numerous buildings having different designs, styles, shapes, and sizes.

[0057] FIG. 2 depicts illustrative commercial chassis 50. The commercial chassis 50 may be composed of multiple sub-assemblies that are assembled on a site foundation 51. These sub-assemblies may include one or more frame assemblies such as a single bay frame assembly 57, a double bay frame assembly 55, or the like that are assembled before arriving at a building location and transported in a folded configuration from the manufacturing location to the building location. At the building location the subassemblies may be unfolded into deployed positions and integrated with other like subassemblies and other various components such as panels, links, hangers, and the like. The single bay frame assembly 57, the double bay frame assembly 55, and other frame assemblies may include one or more partial frame assemblies 52 coupled together by another framing component, such as a steel or glulam beam or similar member, or a framing panel 53, 54, or 56 to form a respective one of the single bay frame assembly 57, the double bay frame assembly 55, or other frame assemblies.

[0058] The commercial chassis 50 shown includes multiple types of frame assemblies, frame components, and infdl assemblies. These and other physical structures can be used in various numbers, sizes, orientations, materials, shapes, and configurations to create any one of numerous buildings having different designs, styles, shapes, and sizes. Additionally, various enclosure assemblies shown in FIG. 1 are also usable in the building shown in FIG. 2.

[0059] In certain aspects, the frame assemblies may be assembled at a manufacturing location and then transported and deployed from a folded position to a deployed position. FIGS. 3A-3D depict illustrative schematics of assembling a frame assembly 14 at a building site. As will be discussed in more detail with reference to FIGS. 22-28, there are multiple methods of assembling a frame assembly to form a sub-assembly 30. FIG. 3 depicts an “inchworm” assembly method. For example, the sub-assembly 30 includes aBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO plurality of frame assemblies 14A-14D. In a first step, a first frame assembly 14A may be unfolded with respect to a second frame assembly 14B or in some instances coupled to the first frame assembly 14A through one or more nodes. In a second step, a third frame assembly 14C may be unfolded with respect to the second frame assembly 14B or in some instances coupled to the second frame assembly 14B through one or more nodes. In a third step, a fourth frame assembly 14D may be unfolded with respect to the third frame assembly 14C or in some instances coupled to the third frame assembly 14C through one or more nodes. At each step, the deployed frame assemblies may be lifted incrementally into their deployed positions and the one or more nodes that couple each of the frame assemblies are locked into position with one or more fasteners. The process may further include attaching panels to the frame assemblies to form a first sub-assembly 30. The process may be repeated to generate a plurality of sub-assemblies 30. The plurality of sub-assemblies 30 may then be coupled together via rails or similar frame members extending from one frame assembly to another frame assembly. The plurality of subassemblies 30 form, for example, the residential chassis 10 as depicted in FIG. 1 or the commercial chassis 50 as depicted in FIG. 2. FIG. 4 depicts a constructed chassis 10 that includes a plurality of sub-assemblies 30 and corresponding components such as those discussed with reference to FIG. 1.

[0060] FIG. 5 depicts an illustrative frame assembly 100. The frame assembly 100 is configured to transform from folded position to a deployed position (e.g., as depicted in FIG. 5) because frame members 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 120, and 122 (e.g., 113- 122) are rotatably coupled together by nodes 110. Aspects of the nodes 110 will be described in more detail herein. For example, the nodes 110A-110E may be a hinge node that includes a first hinge node component 111 that is selectively and rotatably coupled to a second hinge node component 112. The nodes 110A-110E may have different configurations so that various sizes, types, and shapes of frame members 113-122 can be coupled together and folded into orientations for transportation and then into a deployed position, such as the position depicted in FIG. 5. FIG. 5 depicts one section of a frame assembly 100. In certain aspects, for example, the frame member 118 or 120 may be coupled to a node HOD via a hanger (e.g., one of the hangers 650, 660, 670 depicted in FIG. 10) fitted to the node 110D through one or more studs formed from a base of the node HOD. In certain aspects, links 130, 132, 136 may be utilized to structurally supportBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO a frame assembly 100 in the deployed position and / or through deployment of the frame assembly 100 from a folded position to a deployed position. Links 130, 132, 136 may be, for example, a tension rod system, which include one or more tension rods, may be a high-strength steel rod used to transfer tensile forces in large structures like timber frames, trusses, and suspended buildings. Tension rods act as a structural component that resists being stretched or pulled apart, providing stability and integrity by connecting and bracing elements like frame members, such as beams and trusses.Hinge Node Components

[0061] FIGS. 6-13 depict example hinge node components and associated hardware. Referring to FIG. 6, an illustrative schematic view of a hinge component 210 is depicted. For example, the hinge component 210 includes a first hinge node component 211 and a second hinge node component 212 configured to be rotatably connected together. The first hinge node component 211 may be rotatably connected to the second hinge node component 212 through a pair of tension couplers 220A, 220B, one or more positioning plates 222A, 222B, and one or more fasteners 224A, 224B. The pair of tension couplers 220A, 220B, the one or more positioning plates 222A, 222B, and the one or more fasteners 224A, 224B form a dynamic connector 226 that couples the first hinge node component 211 connected to a first frame member and the second hinge node component 212 connected to a second frame member. The dynamic connector 226 enables the first frame member to be moved between and secured at a plurality of positions, such as a first position 210A, 210B, and 210C.

[0062] FIGS. 7A-7B depict an example hinge component 300 in additional detail. FIG. 7 depicts an illustrative assembly of a hinge component 300. For example, the hinge component 300 includes a first hinge node component 311 and a second hinge node component 312. The hinge component 300 may further include one or more various accessories to facilitate various operations of the hinge component 300. In certain aspects, the hinge component 300 may include a locking adapter that may mount to the first hinge node component 311 and the second hinge node component 312 and cooperate with one or more of the plurality of position locking holes 360 (FIG. 7B) to fix the first hinge node component 311 and the second hinge node component 312 at one of a particular angular position.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO

[0063] A locking plate 322 may include a first hole 322 A and a plurality of position locking holes 322B located around the first hole 322A. The plurality of position locking holes 322B may correspond in number and size to those (e.g., the plurality of position locking holes 360 depicted in FIG. 7B) configured on the first hinge node component 311 and the second hinge node component 312.

[0064] The locking adapter comprising complimentary pieces including a receiver adapter 324 and a tabbed adapter 325. The receiver adapter 324 includes a receiving feature 324A on the circumferential edge of the receiver adapter 324. The receiving feature 324 A may be a rectangular shaped recess sized and shaped to create an interference fit with a tab feature of the tabbed adapter 325 as discussed in more detail herein. The receiver adapter 324 may also include a first hole 324B and a plurality of position locking holes 324C located around the first hole 324B. The plurality of position locking holes 324C may correspond in number and size to those (e.g., the plurality of position locking holes 360 depicted in FIG. 7B) configured on the first hinge node component 311 and the second hinge node component 312.

[0065] The tabbed adapter 325 includes tab feature 325 A extending from the circumferential edge of the tabbed adapter 325. The tabbed adapter 325 may also include a first hole 325B and a plurality of position locking holes 325C located around the first hole 325B. The plurality of position locking holes 325C may correspond in number and size to those (e.g., the plurality of position locking holes 360 depicted in FIG. 7B) configured on the first hinge node component 311 and the second hinge node component 312.

[0066] In certain aspects, the receiver adapter 324 may be fastened to a first inner surface of a flange of the first hinge node component 311 and the tabbed adapter 325 may be fastened to a first inner surface of a flange of the second hinge node component 312. Furthermore, the receiver adapter 324 and the tabbed adapter 325 may interface with each other in an assembly of the hinge component 300. As the first hinge node component 311 is rotated with respect to the second hinge node component 312, for example, as depicted in FIGS. 16A and 16B, the receiving feature 324A of the receiver adapter 324 eventually receives and creates an interference fit with the tabbed feature 325 A of the tabbed adapter 325. The fit between the receiving feature 324A and the tabbed feature 325A enables theBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBX0001WO first hinge node component 311 and the second hinge node component 312 to form a temporary locking fit until a locking plate 322 and / or one or more fasteners 320 secure the position of the first hinge node component 311 and the second hinge node through one or more of the plurality of position locking holes of each respective component (e.g., the first hinge node component 311, the second hinge node component 312, the receiver adapter 324, the tabbed adapter 325, and / or the locking plate 322.

[0067] For example, the locking plate 322, the receiver adapter 324, and the tabbed adapter 325 can index through aligned openings of the one or more of the plurality of position locking holes 360 to secure a selected position (e.g., 0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, 90°, 120°, 150°, 180°, or other angle between 0° and 360°). One or more fasteners 320 may be inserted through aligned openings of the one or more of the plurality of position locking holes of the locking plate 322 and corresponding position locking holes 360 to secure the first hinge node component 311 and the second hinge node component 312 at the particular angular position (e.g., 0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, 90°, 120°, 150°, 180°, or other angle between 0° and 360°).

[0068] In certain aspects, the hinge component 300 may include a utility adapter 326. The utility adapter 326 may include a utility plate similar in configuration to the locking plate 322 that includes a first hole and a plurality of position locking holes located around the first hole. Unlike the locking plate 322, the utility adapter 326 includes a second hole that is located outside the plurality of position locking holes. The second hole may provide an eye, clevis, or equivalent interface for a tie-rod (e.g., links 130, 132, 136, such as a cable or brace) to stabilize assemblies during or after deployment.

[0069] In certain aspects, the hinge component 300 may include a cable adapter 680 (FIG. 10) that is configured to attached to one or more studs and receive a cable 682, such as a link that may be utilized to structurally support and / or stabilize a frame assembly. The cable adapter 680 may be configured to retain and direct a link around a connection between one or more frame members and hinge components.

[0070] FIG. 7B depicts a schematic view of the first hinge node component 311 or the second hinge node component 312, generally referred to as a hinge node component. The hinge node component includes a base plate 330 and a flange 340 extending from a first side of the base plate 330. The flange 340 may have one or a variety of shapes, suchBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBX0001WO as a generally triangular shape (e.g., hinge node components 417, 418 as depicted in FIG. 8), a generally rectangular shape (e.g., hinge node components 415, 416 as depicted in FIG. 8), a generally parallelogram or rhomboid shape (e.g., hinge node components 411, 412, 413, 414 as depicted in FIG. 8), or other shape.

[0071] The flange 340 further includes a first hole 350. The first hole 350 extends from a first side of the flange 340 to a second side of the flange 340. The flange 340 further includes a plurality of position locking holes 360 (e.g., holes 361-371) positioned around the first hole 350. The plurality of position locking holes 360 may be oriented in a predetermined orientation, such as, for example, a circular orientation, about the first hole 350. In certain aspects, the plurality of position locking holes 360 may include two holes, three holes, twelve holes, or any number of holes between two and 100 holes. In certain aspects, the plurality of position locking holes 360 may be positioned at about 5- degree, 10-degree, 15-degree, 20-degree, or any position between 5-degrees and 180- degrees, 20-degrees and 90-degrees, or other interval. The plurality of position locking holes 360 of each of the first hinge node component 311 and the second hinge node component 312 may be aligned and fastened together with one or more fasteners that extend through respective ones of the plurality of position locking holes 360 of each of the first hinge node component 311 and the second hinge node component 312. The number of holes of the plurality of position locking holes 360 may be one or more and may be spaced evenly or at various distances from each other.

[0072] The base plate 330 of the hinge node component 311, 312 includes one or more studs 380 extending from the base plate 330. The one or more studs 380 may be threaded or unthreaded. Threaded variations of the one or more studs 380 (e.g., 381-384) may be configured to receive a corresponding nut to secure one or more of a plurality of mating components, such as hangers (e.g., 550, 560, 570, 650, 660 as depicted in FIGS. 9-10). The base plate 330 and the flange may be steel, aluminum, plastic, wood, or other material.

[0073] The base plate 330 of the hinge node component 311, 312 may further include a plurality of mounting holes 390 (e.g., 390-399). The plurality of mounting holes 390 may be configured to receive a fastener, such as a concrete anchor, lag screw, lag bolt, wood screw, or other structural fastener.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO

[0074] FIG. 8 depicts an exploded view of various exemplary hinge components 411- 418 and a plurality of accessories 421, 422, 423, 424, 425, 426, 428, and 429. It should be understood that any combination of two or more hinge components 411-418 may be coupled together. Additionally, any combination of the plurality of accessories 423, 424, 425, 426, 427, 428, and 429 may be coupled to the two or more hinge components 411- 418 thereby enabling various functionalities of the hinge components, such as attachment to a link, a hanger, a conduit, or other component. The accessory 422 may correspond to the locking plate 322 depicted and described with reference to FIG. 7B. The accessory 423 may be a spacer. The accessories 424 and 425 correspond to the receiver adapter 324 and the tabbed adapter 325 depicted and described with reference to FIG. 7B.

[0075] The one or more clip connectors 421 is another type of adapter. The one or more clip connectors 421 are capable of being connected to an exterior facing side of flange of the hinge component. In certain aspects, the one or more clip connectors 421 may include one or more interfaces or clips that are configured to receive and / or retain mechanical / electrical / plumbing (“MEP”) accessories. The MEP link allows the MEP systems to be installed without the need for site modification of the building (for example, cutting holes in members such as beams and studs), as is required with traditional building systems. In certain aspects, the hinge component 300 may include a one or more clip connectors 421 that are configured to support conduits or other systems (e.g., HVAC, plumbing, communications, electrical, etc.) via clamps and route services adjacent to the node without cutting primary members, thereby preserving structural performance.

[0076] FIG. 9 depicts a plurality of various hinge component assemblies. For example, a first hinge component assembly 510A is depicted with a locking plate 422 (e.g., 324, FIG. 7A or FIG. 11). For example, a second hinge component assembly 510B is depicted with a utility adapter 426 (e.g., 326, FIG. 7A). For example, a third hinge component assembly 510B is depicted with a clip connector 421. The clip connector 421 can slidably engage connectors (e.g., via keyhole or slot features) to couple auxiliary members such as panels, millwork, or rails without additional penetrations through the node body. In certain aspects, the hinge component assembly, optionally one or more of the hinge node component 311, 312, may include an orthogonal adapter 540. The orthogonal adapter 540 may re-orient a hinge axis to enable rotation in a planeBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBX0001WO substantially orthogonal to that provided by the flange-to-flange coupling. The orthogonal adapter 540 is described in more detail with respect to FIG. 13.

[0077] In certain aspects, the hinge component assemblies may include a two-part adapter that includes a first part 428 and a second part 429. The two-part adapter is described in more detail with respect to FIG. 12.

[0078] FIG. 10 depicts illustrative hinge node component 610 and hanger assemblies 650, 660, 670. In certain aspects, the hinge component assemblies may include one or more hangers 650, 660, or 670. These hangers are merely examples and other types of hangers may be coupled to the one or more hinge node components of the hinge component assemblies. The first hanger 650 and the second hanger 660 may have an L- shape, where a first segment 654, 664 includes a hole 658, 668 sized to connect to one or more studs 380 (FIG. 7B) of the one or more hinge node components 610. A second segment 652, 662 of the L-shape may include a plurality of holes configured to receive corresponding fasteners 656, 666 for attaching the first hanger 650 or the second hanger 660 to a frame member. For example, as depicted in FIG. 10, one or more of the first hangers 650 may couple to one or more studs 380 (FIG. 7B) of the hinge node component 610. For example, as depicted in FIG. 10, one or more of the second hangers 660 may couple to one or more studs 380 (FIG. 7B) of the hinge node component 610.

[0079] In certain aspects, the hinge node component 610 may have one or more third hangers 670 attached to the one or more studs 380 (FIG. 7B) of the hinge node component 610. The third hanger 670 may include an L-shaped plate with a flange 672 extending from a second segment 671 of the L-shaped plate. The flange 672 may include a first hole 673 and a plurality of position locking holes 674 circumferentially located about the first hole 673. The flange 672 may be configured to rotatably connect to a flange of one or more other hinge node components 610. The third hanger 670 can provide an angle adjustable connection to another hinge node components 610, for example, as depicted in FIG. 17.

[0080] FIG. 11 depicts an illustrative external locking plate 422. The locking plate 422 includes a first hole 750 that corresponds to a first hole 350 of a hinge node component 311, 312 (FIG. 7B). The locking plate 422 further include a plurality of position locking holes 760 that correspond to one or more of the plurality of positionBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBX0001WO locking holes 360 of the hinge node component 311, 312 (FIG. 7B). In certain aspects, one or more fasteners 770, such as a bolt and nut or other type of fastener may be oriented through one or more of the plurality of position locking holes 360 of the hinge node component 311, 312 (FIG. 7B) and the plurality of position locking holes 760 to secure the hinge node component 311, 312 at a desired angular position with respect to another hinge node component 311 , 312 or accessory (e.g., a third hanger 670).

[0081] FIG. 12 depicts an illustrative two part adapter comprising a first part 428 and a second part 429. The first part 428 may have a generally triangular shaped plate with a first hole 850 that may be configured to the first hole 350 of a hinge node component 311, 312 (FIG. 7B). The first part 428 further includes a first groove 888 formed an apex near the first hole 850 of the first part. The first part 428 may further include a number of position locking holes 861-865 positioned in a hemisphere about the first hole 850. The position locking holes 861-865 may be configured to receive one or more fasteners 870 so that the first part 428 can be attached to one or more of the plurality of position locking holes 360 of the hinge node component 311 , 312 (FIG. 7B).

[0082] The second part 429 may have a generally crescent shaped plate with a number of position locking holes 866-868 generally positioned in a hemisphere that follows the outer arc of the crescent shape. The second part 429 may further include one or more fasteners fitted through one or more of the number of position locking holes 866-868. The second part 429 may further include a second groove 889 that is formed with an inner arc of the second part 429. The first part 428 may be configured to be fastened to a first flange of a first hinge node component (e.g., the first hinge node component 311 depicted in FIG. 7 A). The second part 429 may be configured to be fastened to a second flange of a second hinge node component (e.g., the first hinge node component 312 depicted in FIG. 7A). When the first hinge node component having the first part 428 is matted to the second hinge node component having the second part 429, the first groove 888 of the first part 428 mates with the second groove 889 of the second part 429. The first groove 888 and the second groove 889 limit rotation of the first hinge node component with respect to the second hinge node component. The limitation of rotation enables the first hinge node component and the second hinge node component to be coupled together during assembly, such as depicted in FIGS. 17A-17B. Furthermore, once the first hinge node component having the first part 428 is matted to the second hinge node component havingBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley el al Atty Dkt. No. TBX0001WO the second part 429, a fastener, such as a bolt may be threaded through the first hole of the first hinge node component, the first hole 850 of the first part 429, and the second hole of the second hinge node component to facilitate selective rotation of the hinge component that is limited by interface between the first groove 888 and the second groove 889.

[0083] FIG. 13 depicts an illustrative example of an orthogonal adapter 540. The orthogonal adapter 540 may re-orient a hinge axis to enable rotation in a plane substantially orthogonal to that provided by the flange-to-flange coupling. The orthogonal adapter 540 includes a first plate 910 and a flange 920 extending from the first plate 910. The first plate 910 includes a first hole 950 that corresponds to the first hole 350 of one of the hinge node components 311 or 312 (FIG. 7B). Additionally, the first plate 910 includes a plurality of position locking holes 960 that corresponds to the plurality of position locking holes 360 of one of the hinge node components 311 or 312 (FIG. 7B). The flange 920 includes a second hole 955 that corresponds to the first hole 350 of one of the other hinge node components 311 or 312 (FIG. 7B). Additionally, the flange 920 includes a plurality of position locking holes 965 that corresponds to the plurality of position locking holes 360 of one of the other hinge node components 311 or 312 (FIG.7B).Frame Assemblies

[0084] FIG. 14 depicts a plurality of hinge node components 411-418 connected to respective ones of a frame member 1010-1040. In certain aspects, frame members 1010- 1040 may comprise materials such as glulam, lumber, concrete, plastic, steel, other metal or alloy, or other materials. Respective ones of the plurality of hinge node components 411-418 can be connected to respective ones of a frame member 1010-1040 by way of one or more fasteners 1016, 1026, 1036, 1046 that secure the hinge node component to the frame member.

[0085] FIGS. 15 A and 15B depict an illustrative configuration of a portion of a frame assembly in a first position 1101 and in a second position 1102. For example, the frame member 1125 is coupled to a hinge component 1110. The hinge component 1110 can be oriented in a first position (FIG. 15 A) where a first hinge node component and a second hinge node component of the hinge component 1110 form a first angle (e.g., 180 degrees).Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWOIn certain aspects, by removing the one or more fasteners securing the hinge component 1110 in the first position, the hinge component 1110 can be rotated about an axis and / or axial pin extending through the first holes 350 of the hinge component 1110, such that the first hinge node component and the second hinge node component of the hinge component 1110 form different angle (e.g., 90 degrees) (FIG. 15B).

[0086] FIGS. 16 A and 16B depict another illustrative configuration of a portion of a frame assembly in a first position and in a second position. The first position (FIG. 16 A) may correspond to a folded position of the frame assembly and the second position may correspond to a deployed position of the frame assembly. The frame assembly includes a first frame member 1225 coupled to a second frame member 1226 through a first hinge component 1210. In the first position, the first frame member 1225 and the second frame member 1226 is folded such that the first frame member 1225 and the second frame member are parallel. In the second position (FIG. 16B), the first frame member 1225 may form a deployed angle, such as a 150-degree angle with the second frame member 1226. The first and second positions may be secured through a locking adapter 1205 that may include one or more separate adapters 1201 and 1202.

[0087] FIGS. 17A and 17B depicts another illustrative configuration of a portion of a frame assembly in a first position and then in a second position where an orthogonal adapter hanger 1370 and hinge node components 1318 and 1326 are utilized. For example, a first frame member 1325 is coupled to a first hinge node component 1326. The first hinge node component 1326 is rotatably coupled to a flange of the orthogonal adapter hanger 1370 (e.g., a flange of the orthogonal adapter hanger which is similar to the flange 920 of the orthogonal adapter 540 depicted in FIG. 13). In certain aspects, the first hinge node component 1326 is rotatably coupled to a flange of the orthogonal adapter hanger 1370 via a two part adapter 1328, 1329. The first part 1328 of the two part adapter may limit the rotation of the first hinge node component 1326 with the orthogonal adapter hanger 1370. For example, the first part 1328 of the two part adapter may limit the rotation as depicted between assembly 1301 (FIG. 17A) and assembly 1305 (FIG. 17B). The orthogonal adapter hanger 1370 is further coupled to the hinge node component 1318 (e.g., hinge node components 417, 418). It is noted that the orthogonal adapter hanger 1370 may be utilized to incorporate a new rotational angle, such as a rotational angle that is orthogonal to a first rotational angle.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBX0001WO

[0088] FIGS. 18A and 18B depict another illustrative configuration of a portion of a frame assembly in a first position (FIG. 18A) and then in a second position (FIG. 18B) where an orthogonal adapter 1470 (instead of an orthogonal adapter hanger 1370 of FIGS. 17A-17B) is utilized with hinge node components 1418 and 1414. The configuration depicted in FIG. 18 illustrates another combination of components that incorporate additional rotational angles into the assembly. For example, a first hinge node component 1418 is connected to a first frame member 1425 and the orthogonal adapter 1470. This interconnection provides a first rotational angle about a first axis. The flange of the orthogonal adapter 1470 is rotatably coupled to a flange of the second hinge node component 1414, which provides a second rotational angle about a second axis. The first axis and the second axis may be orthogonal to each other or at a different angle. The second hinge node component 1414 is connected to the second frame member 1426. The configuration depicted in FIGS. 18A-18B provides two-degrees of motion between the first frame member 1425 and the second frame member 1426.

[0089] FIG. 19 depicts some illustrative hanger-hinge node component assemblies for frame members 1525, 1526. For example, a hinge node component 1518 may be coupled to one or more various types of hangers 1550. The holes of the hangers 1550 may be coupled to one or more studs of the hinge node component 1518. The hangers 1550 may be secured through with nut attached to threaded versions of the one or more studs. In certain aspects, the hangers 1550 may be secured to unthreaded versions of the one or more studs by compressing the one or more studs forming a compression rivet or other method of creating an interference fit between the unthreaded versions of the one or more studs and the hole of the hangers 1550. In certain aspects, similar to the assemblies depicted in FIGS. 17A-17B and 18A-18B, an orthogonal adapter, such as an orthogonal adapter hanger 1570 may be implemented to connect the first hinge node component 1518 to a second hinge node component 1516 to enable multiple rotational angles in the assembly.

[0090] FIGS. 20A and 20B depict an illustrative example of a portion of a frame assembly in a folded position 1602 and in a deployed position 1604. The portion of the frame assembly includes a first frame member 1625 rotatably connected to a second frame member 1626 via a hinge component. In the folded position 1602, the first frame member 1625 may be parallel to the second frame member 1626. When the frame assembly isBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley el al Atty Dkt. No. TBX0001WO deployed, the first frame member 1625 may be rotated, as enabled by the hinge component, with respect to the second frame member 1626 until the angle formed between the first frame member 1625 and the second frame member 1626 reaches a deployed angle. In certain aspects, a link 1632 may be coupled to the flange portions of the hinge component. The link 1632 may enable connection of the frame assembly with a second frame assembly or other assembly to stabilize the frame assembly in the deployed position.

[0091] In certain aspects, the link 1632 may facilitate coupling the hinge component to a powered device, such as a powered actuator, a robotic arm, or other mechanical driving device. The link 1632 may translate rotational motion generated by a powered device to the hinge component thereby enabling angular rotation of the first frame member 1625 with respect to the second frame member 1626 as depicted from FIG. 20A to FIG. 20B.

[0092] In certain aspects, various other links may be utilized to stabilize and / or secure a frame assembly during and / or after deployment. For example, FIG. 21 depicts some illustrative examples of different types of adapters (e.g., a clip connector 421 or a utility adapter 426 depicted and described with reference to FIG. 7 A) being implemented with hinge node components 1702, 1704, 1706. For example, hinge node components 1702, 1704, 1706 may include one or more utility adapters 426. The one or more utility adapters 426 enable the hinge node components 1702, 1704, 1706 to be connected to one of a variety of links 1730, 1734, 1736, such as a tension rod, a steel cable, a supporting rod or the like. In certain aspects, the hinge node components 1702, 1704, 1706 may include one or more clip connectors 421.

[0093] As discussed with reference to FIG. 8, the one or more clip connectors 421 are another type of adapter. The one or more clip connectors 421 are capable of being connected to one or both of the exterior facing sides of flange of the hinge component. In certain aspects, MEP accessories 1738 may be received and / or retained by the one or more clip connectors 421, for example, as depicted in FIG. 21.Methods for Assembly of Frames

[0094] Turning now to FIGS. 22-25, illustrative examples of a methods of assembly of frame assemblies are depicted. For example, FIG. 22 depicts one method of assemblyBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO of a frame assembly 1800. The designations “A” through “I” depicted in FIG. 22 represent the status of the frame assembly 1800 at various stages of assembly, with “A” corresponding to step A, “B” corresponding to step B, and so forth. The frame assembly 1800 may be constructed member by member. For example, at step A, a first frame member 1802 having a hinge node component attached to each end of the member may be arranged along with other similarly configured frame members at a build location. The other frame members may include a second frame member 1803, a third frame member 1804, and a fourth frame member 1805, and so on. At step B, the third frame member1804 may be secured in a deployed position, such as a vertical position with respect to a ground anchor facilitated by a hinge component. The third frame member 1804 may be stabilized by one or more links. At step C, the first frame member 1802 may be erected in a similar manner as the third frame member 1804 and further stabilized by one or more links at step D. At step E, a fourth frame member 1805 may be attached to the third frame member 1804 in a folded position, such that the fourth frame member 1805 is parallel to the third frame member 1804. The fourth frame member 1805 is rotatably coupled to the third frame member 1804 through a hinge component. At step F, the fourth frame member1805 is rotated to a deployed position, for example, as depicted in FIG. 22. At step G, the second frame member 1803 may be attached to the first frame member 1802 in a folded position, such that the second frame member 1803 is parallel to the first frame member 1802. The second frame member 1803 is rotatably coupled to the first frame member 1802 through a hinge component. At step H, the second frame member 1803 is rotated to a deployed position, for example, as depicted in FIG. 22. At step I, the second frame member 1803 and the fourth frame member 1805 may be coupled together at a hinge component located at the apex of the structure. The links may be removed or adjusted to stabilize the erected and deployed frame assembly 1800 at step I. It should be noted that the steps of the aforementioned method of assembly of the frame assembly 1800 may be performed in a different order than recited herein.

[0095] FIG. 23 depicts another method of assembly of a frame assembly 1900. The method of assembly depicted in FIG. 23 may be referred to as the “inchworm” approach. The designations “A” through “H” depicted in FIG. 23 represent the status of the frame assembly 1800 at various stages of assembly, with “A” corresponding to step A, “B” corresponding to step B, and so forth. At step A, a first frame member 1902 and a secondBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO frame member 1903 may be coupled together by a hinge component. The first frame member 1902 may also be anchor to a ground structure such as a concrete pad via another hinge component at step B. At step C, a link may be attached to an adapter coupled to the hinge component between the first frame member 1902 and the second frame member 1903. A winching mechanism may be coupled to the other end of the link such that the partially assembled frame assembly may be lifted at the hinge component between the first frame member 1902 and the second frame member 1903. At step D, a third frame member 1904 may be coupled to the second frame member 1903 via a further hinge component. At step E, the link may be pulled further to continue lifting of the hinge component between the first frame member 1902 and the second frame member 1903. At step F, a fourth frame member 1905 may be coupled to the third frame member 1904 via a further hinge component. At step G, the link may be pulled further to continue lifting of the hinge component between the first frame member 1902 and the second frame member 1903. Once the frame members are positioned in their deployed positions, the respective hinge components between the frame members may locked in position by one or more fasteners that are fixed through the plurality of position locking holes (e.g., 360, FIG. 7B) of the hinge components (e.g., 311 / 312, FIG. 7B). The links may be removed or adjusted to stabilize the erected and deployed frame assembly 1900 at step H. It should be noted that the steps of the aforementioned method of assembly of the frame assembly 1900 may be performed in a different order than recited herein.

[0096] FIG. 24 depicts another method of assembly of a frame assembly 2000. The method of assembly depicted in FIG. 24 may be referred to as the “vertical lift” approach. The designations “A” through “F” depicted in FIG. 24 represent the status of the frame assembly 1800 at various stages of assembly, with “A” corresponding to step A, “B” corresponding to step B, and so forth. Here, at step A, a plurality of frame members 2002, 2004, 2006, 2008 may be assembled in a folded configuration whereby respective frame members are rotatably coupled together via respective hinge components 2003, 2005, 2007. In certain aspects, the folded frame assembly may be off-loaded from a delivery vehicle as it may be assembled at a manufacturing location that is different from the building site. At the building site, a link, for example, a cable to a crane may be attached via an attachment adapter connected to the hinge component 2005 connecting the second frame member 2004 to the third frame member 2006 at step B. The hinge componentsBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBX0001WO may be in an unfastened position, but have a pivot rod extending through the hole of each of the respective ones of the hinge components. The pivot rod enables the hinge components to rotate freely as the frame assembly is lifted into a deployed position. For example, steps C, D, E in succession depict lifting of the frame assembly 2000. Once the frame assembly 2000 is in a deployed position, such as depicted at step F, the hinge components 2003, 2005, 2007 may be fastened into a locked position. The frame assembly 2000 may further be secured to the ground, such as a concrete pad. This process may be repeated for a plurality of frame assemblies until a chassis is constructed.

[0097] FIG. 25 depicts another method of assembly of a frame assembly 2100. The method of assembly depicted in FIG. 25 may be referred to as the “lift” approach. The designations “A” through “F” depicted in FIG. 25 represent the status of the frame assembly 1800 at various stages of assembly, with “A” corresponding to step A, “B” corresponding to step B, and so forth. Here, at step A, the plurality of frame members may be unfolded and / or assembled into a deployed position that is lying on the ground. In certain aspects, an assembly jig may be utilized to assure each frame member and hinge component is positioned at the proper deployed angle. Once the frame assembly is connected in a deployed position on the ground, for example, at step B, the frame assembly may be lifted, through rotation about its footings as depicted in successive steps C, D and E into a vertical deployed position. At step F, the hinge components may be fastened in a locked position, if they were not locked into position during a previous step.

[0098] In certain aspects, some frame assemblies (see, e.g., the roof frame assembly in FIG. 1) can be static assemblies. Some frame assemblies (see, e.g., FIG. 1) can be deployable frame assemblies. In a deployable frame assembly, the frame can occupy a first configuration (e.g., typically a flat configuration for ease of shipping) and a second configuration. The second configuration is the deployed configuration, where the frame assembly occupies a three-dimensional shape approaching that of the chassis of which the frame assembly will become a part. In certain aspects, for example, as discussed with reference to FIGS. 22-25, to move from the first configuration (e.g., a folded configuration) to the second configuration (e.g., a deployed position), the deployable frame assembly may be lifted (e.g., via a crane or other equipment) at predefined lift points. As the deployable frame assembly is lifted, certain frame components pivot or rotate about one or more dynamic nodes. Various dynamic nodes are possible as shownBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBX0001WO herein, and one example of such a node is a hinge node (see FIG. 8). In the example shown, the hinge node includes at least one positioning plate configured to be received by or within, or otherwise to interact with an end of a frame component. The hinge node also includes multiple fasteners to firmly fasten the hinge node to the frame component. The hinge node further includes a tension coupler to lock the node in place once the final orientation and positioning of the frame components has been achieved.

[0099] FIG. 26 depicts an illustrative jig 2200 for assembling frames 2210 from frame members 2215 and nodes as discussed herein. The illustrative jig 2200 depicts an enclosure jig 2230 that can be configured to assemble various enclosure assemblies with the use of removable alignment pieces 2220. FIG. 26 shows several of the numerous enclosure assembly layouts possible with the enclosure jig 2230. The enclosure jig 2230 can be utilized at a manufacturing facility, or can be brought to the construction site for assembly of enclosure assemblies from standardized enclosure frame components. For example, the removable alignment pieces 2220 may be pins that are fit into holes in the enclosure jig 2230 to create configurations for laying out frame members 2215 to form a frame structure. After laying out frame members 2215 on the enclosure jig 2230 as directed by the removable alignment pieces 2220, nodes can be attached where frame members 2215 meet each other. The assembled frame can then be removed from the enclosure jig 2230 to be transported and / or assembled with other frame assemblies with techniques described herein.

[0100] It should be understood that various assembly jigs for components and for assemblies are disclosed. The jigs can be made for use at a manufacturing facility. Alternatively, the jigs can be mobile and transportable to the job site or elsewhere. Various aspects of the jigs can be modular, such that certain features are able to be added or deleted to provide additional functionality.

[0101] FIG. 27 depicts a set of schematics 2300 showing example deployment of various assemblies according to alternative embodiments. In each diagram 2310-2340, each respective assembly is shown as it moves from its first configuration (e.g., a folded position for transportation) to its second configuration (e.g., its deployed position for assembly with other components). As described earlier for different embodiments of assemblies, dynamic node components allow the movement of the various componentsBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO of the given assembly. In the first configuration, the assembly is in a relatively flat configuration. This allows the assembly to be packed and shipped efficiently for transport from the manufacturing facility to the job site. In this manner, the transport vehicle can be packed with a maximum number of assemblies in order to reduce overall shipping costs. Then, advantageously, once on site, the deployable assemblies can each be lifted or otherwise caused to move from its first configuration to its second (deployed) configuration, as described herein. Appropriate hinge or other types of nodes enable such movement. Once in the deployed configuration, the assembly can be fixed via connections to other assemblies or other structures and / or via locking the various nodes to prevent movement and secure the connection, as described.

[0102] FIG. 28 depicts a schematic showing how various frame assemblies, for example, as depicted and described herein may be packaged for shipping to the job site. As can be seen in diagrams 2410-2450, the ability for deployable assemblies to assume a first configuration greatly improves shipping efficiencies. For example, diagrams 2410- 2440 depict various configurations of frame assemblies and / or panels in a stacked configuration for transportation. The frame assemblies and / or panels can be placed within a shipping container, on a flatbed, or wrapped to protect during transportation. The process for shipping building units from a manufacturing facility to the job site can realize lower shipping costs because the shipping vehicle can be packed much more efficiently to maximize shipping volume while minimizing shipping air or dead space. For example, a deployable assembly can be manufactured and fabricated at the manufacturing facility and then shipped to the job site, where it is later deployed. Alternatively, the deploy able assembly can be manufactured and only partially assembled prior to shipping, whereupon final assembly and deployment can occur at the job site. In either event, maximizing shipping volume per shipment is achieved.

[0103] FIG. 29 depicts a set of schematics 2500 showing various link components. Diagram 2510 depicts example rail components for attaching to an enclosure. Diagram 2520 depicts an example socket component for connecting to a foundation. Diagram 2530 depicts an example assembly of a portion of a chassis.

[0104] FIG. 30 depicts a set of schematics 2600 showing just a few of the many types of supplemental deployments enabled by the system. Diagrams 2610-2630 illustrate theBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBX0001WO use of additional frame components and node components to provide an infdl using a panel. Diagrams 2640-2650 illustrate utilizing additional frame and node components for a slab edge infdl condition. Diagrams 2660-2670 illustrate utilizing additional frame and node components for infdl at wall and link locations. Various infdl components and infdl assemblies are also possible in the system described. Enclosure assemblies can also be used as infdl assemblies. Basically, an infdl item is any physical structure that is used to complete a closure, fdl a space, etc. at the joints of various assemblies and components in a chassis, including at joints of deployable integrated assemblies. The various infdl items have physical connections to other items in the system. The infdl items are configured to couple to different structures in different ways, depending on the location, type, size, and purpose of the particular infdl assembly or component.

[0105] FIG. 31 depicts a set of schematics 2700 depicting additional embodiments of jigs, such as an enclosure jig 2230 or other type of jig used for assembling frame members. Diagrams 2710 illustrate components of a multi-functional jig having node alignment guides 2711 and member alignment guides 2712 to facilitate placement, alignment, and connection of various nodes and members. Rollers 2713 and levelers 2714 can also be used to facilitate material movement and alignment. Diagram 2720 illustrates some examples of how such a jig can be used to configure various assemblies, such as component attachment 2721, node attachment 2722, deployable attachments 2723, and panel attachments 2724. Diagram 2730 illustrates how multiple jigs 2731 can be prepared for efficient transportation, as well as how multiple jigs 2732 can be linked in order to create larger and / or more complicated assemblies. All the various jigs of the system can be configured for use at a manufacturing facility or for use at a job site. Having certain jigs be made mobile greatly increases efficiency, accuracy, and precision at the job site

[0106] In certain aspects described herein, a frame member, whether a post or a rail, can be a longitudinal member having a first end and a second end. Numerous frame components are possible, each having the ability to have different lengths, widths, thicknesses, material properties, cross-sectional shapes, and ends for attaching to nodes of various design. The ends of each frame member can be sized and shaped for specific purposes. In certain aspects, the ends of the components are rounded and have an offset rounded notch to enable a mating component to pivot therearound. The complementary offset rounded ends provide a joint location for a dynamic hinge. Additionally, the sizeBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO and shape of the ends can also provide one or more positive steps, notches, or other physical barriers for the purpose of limiting a range of motion of one or more frame components. For example, the rotation of an upper frame component with respect to the lower frame member is limited by the junction between the straight edges of the frame member and the rounded surface of the end. Other features, like positive stops, notches, or interlocking male / female members can be used in addition to or in lieu of such shapelimiting features to allow the overall rotational motion of a frame member to be limited or controlled.

[0107] Multiple frame components can be assembled into frame assemblies, each assembly having at least two posts and at least two rails. A node is disposed at the junction between each post and rail joint. The frame assemblies can have additional structural members and / or additional nodes if desired, depending on the purpose and location of the frame assemblies.

[0108] Some enclosure assemblies (see, e.g., the window enclosure 18, door enclosure 20, wall enclosure 19, roof panel 15, and so forth illustrated in FIG. 1) can be static assemblies. A fully-integrated frame and enclosure assembly can be made by adding the requisite enclosure assemblies to the corresponding frame assemblies. These integrated assemblies (see, e.g., FIGS. 1-2) can also be deployable assemblies. In certain aspects, the integrated assemblies can be manufactured on site from the requisite components, or can be manufactured off site and then shipped to the job site to be deployed in a manner similar to that described above.

[0109] In other embodiments, the framing components can be used to provide different types of beam / column assemblies. These assemblies are especially useful for building high-density or tall buildings. With various configurations of point-supported assemblies, beam assemblies, long-span assemblies, and partial assemblies, the system is scalable to nearly any size and configuration. And, as for the single-family dwelling discussed above, multiple assemblies can be deployable assemblies as well, being configured to deploy from a first configuration to a second configuration via the use of dynamic nodes.

[0110] As such, a system for designing and / or constructing a building is provided. The system includes at least one frame assembly for a wall, multiple nodes, at least oneBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO enclosure assembly for a wall, at least one frame assembly for a roof, at least one enclosure assembly for a roof, and at least one infill assembly for filling in or connecting gaps or spaces between any of the foregoing structures. Typically, there will be multiple wall enclosure assemblies, with at least one window enclosure and at least one door enclosure. Preferably, at least one of the assemblies in the system is deployable on site, such that it can transition from a first configuration to a second configuration. Preferably, the deployable assemblies are delivered in a first configuration and are later transitioned to a second configuration.

[0111] Various methods for constructing a building according to various embodiments of the system are also provided. In one method, the required components, static assemblies, and deployable assemblies for a chassis are manufactured in a manufacturing facility using various mass timber inputs. Nodes, links, and rails are also made at a facility, whether the same facility or a different facility. In at least one method, the frame assemblies and static assemblies are constructed in the facility. Enclosure assemblies are connected to the frame assemblies, as required, at the facility. Enclosure assemblies are also connected to deployable frame assemblies at the facility. The various components, nodes, and assemblies at the facility are placed onto one or more transport vehicles in a manner such that the space utilized on or in the transport vehicle is maximized. This step involves placing the deployable assemblies on or in the transport vehicle in their respective first configurations. The transport vehicles deliver the freight to a job site where a building is to be built. Advantageously, in some embodiments, the transport vehicles can be of standard size such that they can travel on roads and highways without requiring oversized permits. The components, nodes, and assemblies are removed from the transport vehicle. The components, nodes, and assemblies are connected according to a desired building design and placed on a suitably prepared foundation system. The deployable assemblies are deployed into their respective second configurations by lifting the assemblies and allowing components and assemblies to rotate about respective hinge nodes. The various components, assemblies, infills, and links are installed at the desired locations on the foundation system or adjacent to the required structures of the system. Once the various components, assemblies, infills, and links are configured and oriented as desired, fasteners or other means of coupling are installed and / or deployed at the appropriate stages of assembly to secure all items as desired.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO

[0112] As described above, in alternative methods of construction, some assemblies and some deployable assemblies are not constructed at the manufacturing facility, but rather are constructed at the job site. Also, one or more jigs, whether modular, mobile, or fixed, can be employed to create or assemble any one or more of frame components, frame assemblies, enclosure assemblies, integrated assemblies, nodes, links, infills, chassis, and the like.

[0113] Various components for the system are also described. For example, components such as framing members, nodes, and links have been described and depicted herein. Such components form the “building blocks” for larger structural items, such as frames and enclosures. As stated, the various components are configured to connect to other structures or other components in the system. The engineering properties of each component (e.g., material properties, size, shape, cross-section, configuration, etc.) are designed and configured to achieve the load and aesthetic goals for the component. The ends of each component, and for some components also the edges, are configured to couple to other structures and thus have geometric configurations to facilitate such coupling, as discussed.

[0114] Various frame assemblies are also described. Non-limiting examples of such frame assemblies can be wall frame assemblies, roof frame assemblies, gable end frame assemblies, and the like. Each frame assembly typically includes at least two posts and at least two rails coupled together to create a frame assembly of a desired size, shape, configuration, and purpose. In other embodiments, various frame assemblies can include single bay frame assemblies, double bay frame assemblies, long span assemblies, partial frame assemblies, and various other beamless and beam assemblies. Many of these assemblies are static assemblies, while many others are deployable assemblies. Each assembly includes structural features enabling it to couple to other structures (including, but not limited to, components, other assemblies, other nodes, hybrid nodes, other building systems, and the like) in the building.

[0115] Various enclosure assemblies are also described. Non-limiting examples of such enclosure assemblies include roof end enclosure assemblies, roof enclosure assemblies, roof infdl enclosure assemblies, corner infdl enclosure assemblies, window enclosure assemblies, solid wall enclosure assemblies, door enclosure assemblies, endBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO corner enclosure assemblies, gable end enclosure assemblies, and the like. As discussed, various enclosure assemblies are configured to be coupled to various frame assemblies to create an integrated assembly. The integrated assemblies can be static or deployable assemblies. The specific design of a given enclosure assembly is dictated, in part, by the shape, size, configuration, and purpose of the given enclosure and frame. Many of the various enclosure assemblies can include structures that serve additional purposes, like preventing wind and / or water ingress, providing insulation, providing a desired aesthetic appearance, and so forth. For example, a given window enclosure might include an insulation layer sandwiched between an interior sheathing and an exterior sheathing. These layers can be formed around an opening that will receive a window. The entire window enclosure assembly can be fitted with one or more splice plates to facilitate coupling to adjacent assemblies or other structures. Such layers, and indeed other layers (e.g., waterproofing, fire retardant, wind proofing, soundproofing, rodent proofing, and other layers) can be added or included in any enclosure assembly, as desired or as called for in the design for a given building.

[0116] As stated, in some embodiments described herein, a method for manufacturing a frame member for a mass timber building is disclosed. An example method includes forming a frame member from, for example, an engineered wood product according to the desired size, shape, configuration, and engineering properties required for the component relevant to the building. As noted herein, the frame member may be made of a plurality of different materials, such as concrete, glulam, plastic, aluminum, steel, or the like. The ends of the frame component are also configured to facilitate the anticipated connections to be used based on the node to be used. The ends can have various features (including, but not limited to, shapes, sizes, appurtenances, openings, geometric configurations, and the like) that are configured to facilitate the joining of the frame component to other structures (including other frame components). Similar process steps are involved to construct other components, such as links and rails.

[0117] As discussed, in some embodiments described herein, a method for constructing a deployable assembly from a series of components for a mass timber building is disclosed. Such constructing step can occur offsite at an environmentally controlled facility, or at a job site where the building is being constructed. Three or more frame components are joined at nodes to form a frame assembly. Some of the nodes areBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley el al Atty Dkt. No. TBX0001WO static nodes and others are deployable nodes. Depending on the ultimate shape of the building (and therefore the chassis), the hinge nodes or otherwise deployable nodes are placed at the locations that require the chassis to realize a change in direction. For example, the joint between a wall assembly and a roof assembly requires a hinge node so that the roof assembly can rotate to its correct orientation with respect to the wall assembly. Similarly, a joint in a roof joining two roof assemblies that must occupy different slopes of the roof also receive a hinge node. In this manner, the configuration of the building will dictate how many hinge nodes there are in any given assembly, where they are located, and how they are to rotate. For those assemblies that require enclosures, enclosure assemblies can be coupled to the frame assembly either before the frame assembly is shipped to the job site or after.

[0118] In some embodiments described herein, a method for shipping components and assemblies for a mass timber housing system is disclosed. However, mass timber housing is merely an example, as the techniques described herein can be implemented with various types of materials. The method involves placing one or more deployable assemblies into a first configuration to place on or in a transportation vehicle in a manner that minimizes unused space. Additional deployable assemblies, static assemblies, and components can be efficiently stacked on or in the transportation vehicle so as to achiever a greater ratio of materials to unused space.

[0119] In some embodiments described herein, a method for unloading one or more assemblies for a mass timber building is disclosed. However, mass timber housing is merely an example, as the techniques described herein can be implemented with various types of materials. The method involves lifting the various components, assemblies, and deployable assemblies from the transportation vehicle. The method also includes lifting the deployable assemblies in a manner such that the deployable assemblies transition from a first configuration to a second configuration as a result of the lifting process.Example Clauses

[0120] Implementation examples are described in the following numbered clauses:

[0121] Clause 1 : A hinge node component comprising: a base plate comprising: a flange extending from the base, the flange comprising: a hole extending from a first side of the flange to a second side of the flange; and a plurality of position locking holesBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBX0001WO positioned around the hole, and one or more studs extending from the base arranged to fasten to one or more of a plurality of mating components.

[0122] Clause 2: The hinge node component of Clause 1, wherein the flange comprises a triangular shape.

[0123] Clause 3: The hinge node component of Clause 1, wherein the flange comprises a rectangular shape.

[0124] Clause 4: The hinge node component of Clause 1, wherein the flange comprises a parallelogram shape.

[0125] Clause 5: The hinge node component of Clause 1, wherein the flange comprises a rhomboid shape.

[0126] Clause 6: The hinge node component of any one of Clauses 1-5, wherein the one or more studs are threaded.

[0127] Clause 7: The hinge node component of any one of Clauses 1-5, wherein the one or more studs are unthreaded.

[0128] Clause 8: The hinge node component of any one of Clauses 1-7, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises two position locking holes.

[0129] Clause 9: The hinge node component of any one of Clauses 1-7, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises twelve position locking holes.

[0130] Clause 10: The hinge node component of any one Clauses 1-9, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises a position locking hole positioned at about 20-degree intervals about the hole.

[0131] Clause 11 : The hinge node component of any one of Clauses 1-10, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises a position locking hole positioned between 20-degree to 90-degree intervals about the hole.

[0132] Clause 12: The hinge node component of any one of Clauses 1-11, wherein one of the one or more of the plurality of mating components comprises a hanger.

[0133] Clause 13: The hinge node component of any one of Clauses 1-11, wherein one of the one or more of the plurality of mating components comprises an orthogonal adapter hanger.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO

[0134] Clause 14: The hinge node component of any one of Clauses 1-13, the base plate and the flange comprises a steel material.

[0135] Clause 15: The hinge node component of Clause 1-13, the base plate and the flange comprises an aluminum material.

[0136] Clause 16: A structural member comprising: a member element comprising a length having a first end and a second end; a first hinge node fastened to a first end of the member element, the first hinge node comprising: a base plate comprising: a flange extending from the base, the flange comprising: a hole extending from a first side of the flange to a second side of the flange; and a plurality of position locking holes positioned around the hole, and one or more studs extending from the base arranged to fasten to one or more of a plurality of mating components.

[0137] Clause 17: The structural member of Clause 16, wherein the member element comprises wood.

[0138] Clause 18: The structural member of Clause 16, wherein the member element comprises glulam.

[0139] Clause 19: The structural member of Clause 16, wherein the member element comprises concrete.

[0140] Clause 20: The structural member of Clause 16, wherein the member element comprises steel.

[0141] Clause 21 : The structural member of any one of Clauses 16-20, wherein the member element is configured as a beam.

[0142] Clause 22: The structural member of any one of Clauses 16-20, wherein the member element is configured as a column.

[0143] Clause 23 : The structural member of any one of Clauses 16-20, wherein the member element is configured as a panel.

[0144] Clause 24: The structural member of any one of Clauses 16-23, wherein the first hinge node is fastened to the first end of the member element with a plurality of fasteners.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBX0001WO

[0145] Clause 25: The structural member of Clause 24, wherein the plurality of fasteners comprise screws.

[0146] Clause 26: The structural member of Clause 24, wherein the plurality of fasteners comprise lag bolts.

[0147] Clause 27: The structural member of Clause 24, wherein the plurality of fasteners comprise nails.

[0148] Clause 28: The structural member of any one of Clauses 16-27, wherein the flange comprises a triangular shape.

[0149] Clause 29: The structural member of any one of Clauses 16-27, wherein the flange comprises a rectangular shape.

[0150] Clause 30: The structural member of any one of Clauses 16-27, wherein the flange comprises a parallelogram shape.

[0151] Clause 31 : The structural member of any one of Clauses 16-27, wherein the flange comprises a rhomboid shape.

[0152] Clause 32: The structural member of Clauses 16-31, wherein the one or more studs are threaded.

[0153] Clause 33: The structural member of any one of Clauses 16-31, wherein the one or more studs are unthreaded.

[0154] Clause 34: The structural member of any one of Clauses 16-33, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises two position locking holes.

[0155] Clause 35: The structural member of any one of Clauses 16-33, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises twelve position locking holes.

[0156] Clause 36: The structural member of any one of Clauses 16-33, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises a position locking hole positioned at about 20-degree intervals about the hole.

[0157] Clause 37: The structural member of any one of Clauses 16-33, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises a position locking hole positioned between 20-degree to 90-degree intervals about the hole.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO

[0158] Clause 38: The structural member of any one of Clauses 16-37, wherein one of the one or more of the plurality of mating components comprises a hanger.

[0159] Clause 39: The structural member of any one of Clauses 16-37, wherein one of the one or more of the plurality of mating components comprises an orthogonal adapter hanger.

[0160] Clause 40: The structural member of any one Clauses 16-38, the base plate and the flange comprises a steel material.

[0161] Clause 41 : The structural member of any one of Clauses 16-38, the base plate and the flange comprises an aluminum material.

[0162] Clause 42: A hinge component comprising: a first hinge node comprising: a first base plate comprising: a first flange extending from the base, the first flange comprising: a first hole extending from a first side of the first flange to a second side of the first flange; and a first plurality of position locking holes positioned around the first hole, and one or more studs extending from the base arranged to fasten to one or more of a plurality of mating components; a second hinge node comprising: a second base plate comprising: the second flange extending from the base, the second flange comprising: a second hole extending from a third side of the second flange to a fourth side of the second flange; and a second plurality of position locking holes positioned around the second hole, and one or more studs extending from the second base arranged to fasten to one or more of a plurality of mating components; and at least one selectively removeable fastener extending through a first position locking hole of the first plurality of position locking holes and a second position locking hole of the second plurality of position locking holes.

[0163] Clause 43: The hinge component of Clause 42, further comprising a first spacer comprising a third hole and a third plurality of position locking holes positioned around the third hole, wherein the first spacer is positioned between a first side of the first flange and a third side of a second flange.

[0164] Clause 44: The hinge component of Clause 43, wherein the first spacer comprises a third position locking hole of the third plurality of position locking holes, and the at least one selectively removeable fastener extends through the first position locking hole of the first plurality of position locking holes, the second position locking hole of theBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO second plurality of position locking holes, and the third position locking hole of the third plurality of position locking holes.

[0165] Clause 45: The hinge component of any one of Clauses 42-44, further comprising an adapter attached to at least one of the first flange or the second flange.

[0166] Clause 46: The hinge component of Clause 45, wherein the adapter is a locking adapter.

[0167] Clause 47: The hinge component of Clause 45, wherein the adapter is a utility adapter.

[0168] Clause 48: The hinge component of Clause 45, wherein the adapter is a clip connector.

[0169] Clause 49: The hinge component of any one of Clauses 42-48, wherein the first flange or the second flange comprises a triangular shape.

[0170] Clause 50: The hinge component of any one of Clauses 42-48, wherein the first flange or the second flange comprises a rectangular shape.

[0171] Clause 51 : The hinge component of any one of Clauses 42-48, wherein the first flange or the second flange comprises a parallelogram shape.

[0172] Clause 52: The hinge component of any one of Clauses 42-48, wherein the first flange or the second flange comprises a rhomboid shape.

[0173] Clause 53: The hinge component of any one of Clauses 42-52, wherein the one or more studs are threaded.

[0174] Clause 54: The hinge component of any one of Clauses 42-52, wherein the one or more studs are unthreaded.

[0175] Clause 55: The hinge component of any one of Clauses 42-54, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises two position locking holes.

[0176] Clause 56: The hinge component of any one of Clauses 42-54, wherein the first plurality of position locking holes and the second plurality of position locking holes comprise twelve position locking holes.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBX0001WO

[0177] Clause 57: The hinge component of any one of Clauses 42-54, wherein the first plurality of position locking holes and the second plurality of position locking holes comprise a position locking hole positioned at about 20-degree intervals about the hole.

[0178] Clause 58: The hinge component of any one of Clauses 42-54, wherein the first plurality of position locking holes and the second plurality of position locking holes comprise a position locking hole positioned between 20-degree to 90-degree intervals about the hole.

[0179] Clause 59: The hinge component of any one of Clauses 42-58, wherein one of the one or more of the plurality of mating components comprises a hanger.

[0180] Clause 60: The hinge component of any one of Clauses 42-59, wherein one of the one or more of the plurality of mating components comprises an orthogonal adapter hanger.

[0181] Clause 61 : The hinge component of any one of Clauses 42-60, the base plate and the flange comprises a steel material.

[0182] Clause 62: A method of assembly of a frame structure comprising at least two frame elements selectively joined by respective hinge nodes, the method comprising: positioning a folded frame assembly comprising a first frame element comprising a first hinge node coupled to a second hinge node of a second frame element; removing one or more fasteners from a plurality of position locking holes of the first hinge node and the second hinged node; rotating at least one of the first frame element or the second frame element to a deployed positioned, wherein an angle formed between the first frame element and the second frame element in the deployed position is different from an angle formed in the folded frame assembly; and securing the one or more fasteners into one or more of the plurality of position locking holes of the first hinge node and the second hinged node.

[0183] Clause 63: A method of transporting an assembly of a frame structure comprising at least two frame elements selectively joined by respective hinge nodes, the method comprising: forming an assembly of a frame structure by securing a first hinge node of a first frame element to a second hinge node of a second frame element with one or more fasteners extending through one or more of a plurality of position locking holes of respective ones of the first hinge node and the second hinge node, such that the firstBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO frame element is in a position parallel to the second frame element; loading the assembly of the frame structure on a transport vehicle; extracting the assembly of the frame structure from the transport vehicle; and deploying the frame structure into a deployed position by adjusting an angle formed between the first hinge node and the second hinge node by rotating the first frame element with respect to the second frame element about the first hinge node rotatably coupled to the second hinge node.

[0184] Clause 64: A hinge node and hanger assembly comprising: a hinge node comprising: a base plate comprising: a flange extending from the base, the flange comprising: a hole extending from a first side of the flange to a second side of the flange; and a plurality of position locking holes positioned around the hole, and one or more studs extending from the base arranged to fasten to one or more of a plurality of mating components; a hanger comprising: a first member coupled to and forming an angle with a second member, one or more hanger holes formed through the first member; and one or more anchoring holes formed through the second member and configured to receive one or more fasteners for coupling to a frame element, wherein: the one or more hanger holes receive one or more studs; and one or more fasteners coupled to the one or more studs secure the hanger to the hinge node.

[0185] Clause 65: A structural assembly comprising: a first frame assembly comprising a first hinge node of a first frame element coupled to a second hinge node of a second frame element in a first deployed position; a second frame assembly comprising a third hinge node of a third frame element coupled to a fourth hinge node of a fourth frame element in a second deployed position; a fifth frame element comprising: a first hanger coupled to a first end of the fifth frame element and a second hanger coupled to a second end of the fifth frame element, the first hanger and the second hanger each comprising one or more hanger holes, wherein: the one or more hanger holes of the first hanger receive one or more studs of the first hinge node; the one or more hanger holes of the second hanger receive one or more studs of the second hinge node; and a plurality of fasteners coupled to respective ones of the one or more studs of the first hinge node and the one or more studs of the second hinge node respectively secure the first hanger to the first hanger and the second hanger to the second hanger.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley el al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWOAdditional Considerations

[0186] While several embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and / or structures for performing the function and / or obtaining the results and / or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and / or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and / or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings is / are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific embodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, and / or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, and / or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, and / or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0187] All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and / or ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

[0188] The indefinite articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.”

[0189] The phrase “and / or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and / or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and / or” clause, whether related orBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and / or B”, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc.

[0190] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and / or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and / or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of’ or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of,” will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.” “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

[0191] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and / or B”) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one,Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWOA, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

[0192] It should also be understood that, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, in any methods claimed herein that include more than one step or act, the order of the steps or acts of the method is not necessarily limited to the order in which the steps or acts of the method are recited.

[0193] In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” “holding,” “composed of,” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of’ and “consisting essentially of’ shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively.

[0194] It is to be understood that the embodiments are not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Unless limited otherwise, the terms “connected,” “coupled,” “in communication with,” and “mounted,” and variations thereof herein are used broadly and encompass direct and indirect connections, couplings, and mountings. In addition, the terms “connected” and “coupled” and variations thereof are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.

[0195] The foregoing description of several embodiments of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise steps and / or forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching.

Claims

Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWOWHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A hinge node component comprising: a base plate comprising: a flange extending from the base, the flange comprising: a hole extending from a first side of the flange to a second side of the flange; and a plurality of position locking holes positioned around the hole, and one or more studs extending from the base arranged to fasten to one or more of a plurality of mating components.

2. The hinge node component of claim 1, wherein the flange comprises a triangular shape.

3. The hinge node component of claim 1 , wherein the flange comprises a rectangular shape.

4. The hinge node component of claim 1, wherein the flange comprises a parallelogram shape.

5. The hinge node component of claim 1, wherein the flange comprises a rhomboid shape.

6. The hinge node component of claim 1 , wherein the one or more studs are threaded.

7. The hinge node component of claim 1, wherein the one or more studs are unthreaded.

8. The hinge node component of claim 1, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises two position locking holes.

9. The hinge node component of claim 1, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises twelve position locking holes.

10. The hinge node component of claim 1, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises a position locking hole positioned at about 20-degree intervals about the hole.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO11. The hinge node component of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises a position locking hole positioned between 20-degree to 90- degree intervals about the hole.

12. The hinge node component of claim 1, wherein one of the one or more of the plurality of mating components comprises a hanger.

13. The hinge node component of claim 1, wherein one of the one or more of the plurality of mating components comprises an orthogonal adapter hanger.

14. The hinge node component of claim 1, the base plate and the flange comprises a steel material.

15. The hinge node component of claim 1, the base plate and the flange comprises an aluminum material.

16. A structural member comprising: a member element comprising a length having a first end and a second end; a first hinge node fastened to a first end of the member element, the first hinge node comprising: a base plate comprising: a flange extending from the base, the flange comprising: a hole extending from a first side of the flange to a second side of the flange; and a plurality of position locking holes positioned around the hole, and one or more studs extending from the base arranged to fasten to one or more of a plurality of mating components.

17. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the member element comprises wood.

18. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the member element comprises glulam.

19. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the member element comprises concrete.

20. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the member element comprises steel.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO21. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the member element is configured as a beam.

22. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the member element is configured as a column.

23. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the member element is configured as a panel.

24. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the first hinge node is fastened to the first end of the member element with a plurality of fasteners.

25. The structural member of claim 24, wherein the plurality of fasteners comprise screws.

26. The structural member of claim 24, wherein the plurality of fasteners comprise lag bolts.

27. The structural member of claim 24, wherein the plurality of fasteners comprise nails.

28. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the flange comprises a triangular shape.

29. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the flange comprises a rectangular shape.

30. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the flange comprises a parallelogram shape.

31. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the flange comprises a rhomboid shape.

32. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the one or more studs are threaded.

33. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the one or more studs are unthreaded.

34. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises two position locking holes.

35. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises twelve position locking holes.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO36. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises a position locking hole positioned at about 20-degree intervals about the hole.

37. The structural member of claim 16, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises a position locking hole positioned between 20-degree to 90-degree intervals about the hole.

38. The structural member of claim 16, wherein one of the one or more of the plurality of mating components comprises a hanger.

39. The structural member of claim 16, wherein one of the one or more of the plurality of mating components comprises an orthogonal adapter hanger.

40. The structural member of claim 16, the base plate and the flange comprises a steel material.

41. The structural member of claim 16, the base plate and the flange comprises an aluminum material.

42. A hinge component comprising: a first hinge node comprising: a first base plate comprising: a first flange extending from the first base plate, the first flange comprising: a first hole extending from a first side of the first flange to a second side of the first flange; and a first plurality of position locking holes positioned around the first hole, and one or more studs extending from the base arranged to fasten to one or more of a plurality of mating components; a second hinge node comprising: a second base plate comprising:Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO the second flange extending from the second base plate, the second flange comprising: a second hole extending from a third side of the second flange to a fourth side of the second flange; and a second plurality of position locking holes positioned around the second hole, and one or more studs extending from the second base arranged to fasten to one or more of a plurality of mating components; and at least one selectively removeable fastener extending through a first position locking hole of the first plurality of position locking holes and a second position locking hole of the second plurality of position locking holes.

43. The hinge component of claim 42, further comprising a first spacer comprising a third hole and a third plurality of position locking holes positioned around the third hole, wherein the first spacer is positioned between a first side of the first flange and a third side of a second flange.

44. The hinge component of claim 43, wherein the first spacer comprises a third position locking hole of the third plurality of position locking holes, and the at least one selectively removeable fastener extends through the first position locking hole of the first plurality of position locking holes, the second position locking hole of the second plurality of position locking holes, and the third position locking hole of the third plurality of position locking holes.

45. The hinge component of claim 42, further comprising an adapter attached to at least one of the first flange or the second flange.

46. The hinge component of claim 45, wherein the adapter is a locking adapter.

47. The hinge component of claim 45, wherein the adapter is a utility adapter.

48. The hinge component of claim 45, wherein the adapter is a clip connector.

49. The hinge component of claim 42, wherein the first flange or the second flange comprises a triangular shape.Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO50. The hinge component of claim 42, wherein the first flange or the second flange comprises a rectangular shape.

51. The hinge component of claim 42, wherein the first flange or the second flange comprises a parallelogram shape.

52. The hinge component of claim 42, wherein the first flange or the second flange comprises a rhomboid shape.

53. The hinge component of claim 42, wherein the one or more studs are threaded.

54. The hinge component of claim 42, wherein the one or more studs are unthreaded.

55. The hinge component of claim 42, wherein the plurality of position locking holes comprises two position locking holes.

56. The hinge component of claim 42, wherein the first plurality of position locking holes and the second plurality of position locking holes comprise twelve position locking holes.

57. The hinge component of claim 42, wherein the first plurality of position locking holes and the second plurality of position locking holes comprise a position locking hole positioned at about 20-degree intervals about the hole.

58. The hinge component of claim 42, wherein the first plurality of position locking holes and the second plurality of position locking holes comprise a position locking hole positioned between 20-degree to 90-degree intervals about the hole.

59. The hinge component of claim 42, wherein one of the one or more of the plurality of mating components comprises a hanger.

60. The hinge component of claim 42, wherein one of the one or more of the plurality of mating components comprises an orthogonal adapter hanger.

61. The hinge component of claim 42, the first base plate, the second base plate, the first flange, and the second flange comprises a steel material.

62. A method of assembly of a frame structure comprising at least two frame elements selectively joined by respective hinge nodes, the method comprising: positioning a folded frame assembly comprising a first frame element comprising a first hinge node coupled to a second hinge node of a second frame element;Building Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO removing one or more fasteners from a plurality of position locking holes of the first hinge node and the second hinged node; rotating at least one of the first frame element or the second frame element to a deployed positioned, wherein an angle formed between the first frame element and the second frame element in the deployed position is different from an angle formed in the folded frame assembly; and securing the one or more fasteners into one or more of the plurality of position locking holes of the first hinge node and the second hinged node.

63. A method of transporting an assembly of a frame structure comprising at least two frame elements selectively joined by respective hinge nodes, the method comprising: forming an assembly of a frame structure by securing a first hinge node of a first frame element to a second hinge node of a second frame element with one or more fasteners extending through one or more of a plurality of position locking holes of respective ones of the first hinge node and the second hinge node, such that the first frame element is in a position parallel to the second frame element; loading the assembly of the frame structure on a transport vehicle; extracting the assembly of the frame structure from the transport vehicle; and deploying the frame structure into a deployed position by adjusting an angle formed between the first hinge node and the second hinge node by rotating the first frame element with respect to the second frame element about the first hinge node rotatably coupled to the second hinge node.

64. A hinge node and hanger assembly comprising: a hinge node comprising: a base plate comprising: a flange extending from the base, the flange comprising: a hole extending from a first side of the flange to a second side of the flange; andBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO a plurality of position locking holes positioned around the hole, and one or more studs extending from the base arranged to fasten to one or more of a plurality of mating components; a hanger comprising: a first member coupled to and forming an angle with a second member, one or more hanger holes formed through the first member; and one or more anchoring holes formed through the second member and configured to receive one or more fasteners for coupling to a frame element, wherein: the one or more hanger holes receive one or more studs; and one or more fasteners coupled to the one or more studs secure the hanger to the hinge node.

65. A structural assembly comprising: a first frame assembly comprising a first hinge node of a first frame element coupled to a second hinge node of a second frame element in a first deployed position; a second frame assembly comprising a third hinge node of a third frame element coupled to a fourth hinge node of a fourth frame element in a second deployed position; a fifth frame element comprising: a first hanger coupled to a first end of the fifth frame element and a second hanger coupled to a second end of the fifth frame element, the first hanger and the second hanger each comprising one or more hanger holes, wherein: the one or more hanger holes of the first hanger receive one or more studs of the first hinge node; the one or more hanger holes of the second hanger receive one or more studs of the second hinge node; andBuilding Systems, Apparatuses, And Methods Inventor: Oakley et al Atty Dkt. No. TBXOOOIWO a plurality of fasteners coupled to respective ones of the one or more studs of the first hinge node and the one or more studs of the second hinge node respectively secure the first hanger to the first hanger and the second hanger to the second hanger.

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