An equipment for forming a beam structure, a beam structure and a method for forming a beam structure

Abstract

The invention relates to an equipment (10) for fabricating a beam structure (100), the equipment (10) comprising at least a first elongated beam (1) having two planar side structures (11,12); a second elongated beam (2) having two planar side structures (21,22) The equipment (10) comprises a first and a second joint plate (3,4), each said joint plate (3,4) comprising a first fastening and positioning means (31,32;41,42), which comprise a first group of fastening holes (31;41), and a first positioning slot (32;42) having a bottom end (321;421); and the second beam (2) comprises on a first and second planar side structures (21,22) thereof, a counterpart fastening and positioning means (211,212;221,222) for the first fastening and positioning means (31,32;41,42) of the first and second joint plate (3,4), respectively, wherein the counterpart fastening and positioning means (211,212;221,222) of each side structure (21,22) comprises a group of counterpart fastening holes (211;221), and a positioning protrusion (212;222) protruding from the side structure (21,22) in question; wherein the fastening holes (31) and the bottom end (321) of the positioning slot (32) of the first fastening and positioning means (31,32) of the first joint plate (3) are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as the counterpart fastening holes (211) and the positioning protrusion (212) or protrusion member mounting hole (212h) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (211,212) of the first side structure (21); and the fastening holes (41) and the bottom end (421) of the positioning slot (42) of the first fastening and positioning means (41,42) of the second joint plate (4) are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as the counterpart fastening holes (221) and the positioning protrusion (222) or protrusion member mounting hole (222h) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (221,222) of the second side structure (22). The invention also relates to a beam structure (100) and a method implementing the equipment (10).

Description

[0001] AN EQUIPMENT FOR FORMING A BEAM STRUCTURE, A BEAM STRUCTURE AND A METHOD FOR FORMING A BEAM STRUCTURE

[0002] Field of the invention

[0003] The invention relates to connecting structures, such as in particular elongated beams to each other for forming a beam structure, such as a truss.

[0004] Background of the invention

[0005] Beam structures, which comprise rigidly connected metal beams, are commonly used when a rigid and sturdy frame structure is needed. A truss is one such structure, a lattice girder is another such structure. A truss is a frame structure, which can be large and able to transmit high loads even though only moderate amount of material is used. Commonly, a truss comprises a pair of relatively long main beams which are connected to each other by a group of shorter braces extending between them. The braces are typically also in the form of beams. The braces extend between the main beams connecting them rigidly to each other. The main beams can be parallel to each other, but this is not necessary as alternatively they can extend at an angle relative to each other. The group of braces typically comprises braces which are connected to the main beams in perpendicular and / or diagonal orientation.

[0006] There are various uses for truss structures made by connecting metal beams, such as for example in roof trusses, footbridges, masts, escalators, etc. Joints between the beams are often made by welding, but mechanical joints, such as those implemented with hard metal screws, are also used.

[0007] Previously known solutions have been presented in publications FU30464B, US3826057A and JP2009197437A, for example. In these solutions, beams are mechanically connected to each other to form a truss structure.

[0008] A drawback of prior solutions has been that the connection between the beams requires complicated structures and / or forming large holes in the beams. A drawback of prior solutions has been that they do not suit well for connecting elongated beams which have the same thickness. Thereby, it may be that beams of different thickness need to be used.

[0009] Brief description of the invention

[0010] The object of the invention is to introduce an improved equipment and method for fabricating a beam structure and an improved beam structure.

[0011] An object is particularly to introduce a solution by which one or more of the above-mentioned problems of prior art and / or drawbacks discussed or implied elsewhere in the description can be alleviated. An object is particularly to introduce a solution whereby a strong beam structure can be produced with simple structures, quickly, accurately and so that the strength of the connection as well as of the individual beams is very good. Solutions are presented whereby, inter alia, beams of same thickness can be connected simply, quickly and accurately without making large holes in the beams.

[0012] Solutions are presented which, inter alia, facilitate forming a beam structure with reduced need for welding or even completely without welding.

[0013] It is introduced a new equipment for fabricating a beam structure, such as a truss or a lattice girder for example, which beam structure comprises plurality of elongated beams connected to each other, the equipment comprising at least a first elongated beam having two planar side structures and a second elongated beam having two planar side structures. The equipment moreover comprises a first and a second joint plate, which are fixed, preferably for example by fastening means or possibly in some other way such as by welding, or at least fixable, to and against the opposite side structures of the first beam, in particular such that a mounting space for accommodating an end of at least one second beam, possibly also an end of a third beam, is formed beside the first beam between the first and a second joint plate. Each said joint plate comprises a first fastening and positioning means, which comprise a first group of fastening holes, and a first positioning feature.

[0014] The second beam comprises at an end thereof, on a first and second planar side structures thereof, which are in particular opposite planar side structures of the second beam, a counterpart fastening and positioning means for the first fastening and positioning means of the first and second joint plate, respectively.

[0015] The counterpart fastening and positioning means of each planar side structure comprises a group of counterpart fastening holes, and a counterpart positioning feature.

[0016] The first positioning feature is a first positioning slot having a bottom end, and the counterpart positioning feature is a positioning protrusion or a protrusion member mounting hole for receiving a protrusion member comprised in the equipment and mountable such that it forms a positioning protrusion as defined; or vice versa.

[0017] The fastening holes and the first positioning feature of the first fastening and positioning means of the first joint plate, preferably more specifically the fastening holes and the bottom end of the positioning slot, are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the joint plate, as the counterpart fastening holes and the counterpart positioning feature of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the first side structure, preferably more specifically the counterpart fastening holes and the positioning protrusion or protrusion member mounting hole, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the first side structure; and the fastening holes and the first positioning feature of the first fastening and positioning means of the second joint plate, preferably more specifically the fastening holes and the bottom end of the positioning slot are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the joint plate, as the counterpart fastening holes and the counterpart positioning feature of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the second side structure, preferably more specifically the counterpart fastening holes and the positioning protrusion or protrusion member mounting hole, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the second side structure.

[0018] With this kind of solution one or more of the above-mentioned objects can be facilitated.

[0019] Preferable further details of the equipment are introduced in the following, which further details can be combined with the equipment individually or in any combination.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the first positioning feature is a first positioning slot having a bottom end, and the counterpart positioning feature is a positioning protrusion protruding from the side structure in question or a protrusion member mounting hole for receiving a protrusion member comprised in the equipment and mountable such that it forms a positioning protrusion as defined. In a preferred embodiment, the protrusion of each side structure of the second beam is farther from an end face of the second beam than one or more, preferably most, most preferably all, of the counterpart fastening holes of the side structure in question. With regard to positioning of the features of the joint plates, correspondingly, the bottom end of each joint plate is closer to an edge of the joint plate in question from which edge the slot extends towards the central portion of plate in question, than most, preferably all, of the fastening holes of the joint plate in question.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the second elongated beam is placed or placeable in a mounting position between the joint plates fixed against the opposite side structures of the first beam, in particular by sliding it into and / or inside the mounting space, wherein in said mounting position the fastening holes of the joint plates are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the side structures of the second beam; and preferably moreover the positioning protrusions are in the bottom ends of the slots, in particular resting against the bottom faces of the bottom ends.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, in said mounting position [of the second elongated beam] the positioning protrusion of the first side structure of the second elongated beam is in the bottom end of the slot of the first joint plate, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end, or vice versa and the protrusion of the second side structure of the second elongated beam is in the bottom end of the slot of the second joint plate, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end, or vice versa.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the second elongated beam is placed or placeable in a mounting position between the joint plates fixed against the opposite planar side structures of the first beam such that the end face of the second beam is between the joint plates resting against a third planar side structure of the first beam, or at most 1 mm apart from it, which third planar side structure is perpendicular to said two planar side structures of the first beam.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the end face of the second beam comprises at least a planar face portion, or plurality of coplanar planar face portions, and when the second elongated beam is placed in the mounting position, said planar face portion or plurality of coplanar face portions are parallel to the third planar side structure of the first beam, resting against the third planar side structure or at most 1 mm apart from it.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the second beam is a rectangular tubular beam and the end face comprises coplanar planar end face portions which are end faces of walls of the rectangular tubular beam.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, said plurality of coplanar planar face portions comprise a first and second planar face portions, which are displaced in longitudinal direction of the first elongated beam when the second elongated beam is placed in the mounting position.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the second elongated beam is a rectangular tubular beam and the first and second planar face portions are end faces of opposite walls of this rectangular tubular beam, in particular by end faces of opposite walls of the rectangular tubular beam, which walls are perpendicular to the side structures of the first elongated beam,

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the first elongated beam is a rectangular tubular beam and the third planar side structure is a planar plate section of the rectangular tubular beam, which planar plate section forms a wall of this rectangular tubular beam.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the positioning slots, which are preferably those of the joint plates, are in cooperation with said positioning protrusions, which are preferably those of the second beam, arranged to position the second beam, in particular when slided into and / or inside the mounting space, into a mounting position where the fastening holes of the joint plates and the corresponding counterpart fastening holes of the second beam are in alignment, thereby enabling fastening members, such as fastening screws, to be driven through the aligned fastening holes and counterpart fastening holes for thereby rigidly connecting the joint plates and the second beam to each other.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the second elongated beam is in the mounting position fully outside the first beam and vice versa.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the joint plates are fixed or at least fixable against the opposite side structures of the first beam such that they are parallel with each other, their opposing faces being in particular parallel and planar and defining between them the mounting space, wherein the mounting space width preferably corresponds to the thickness of the second beam either exactly or with at most +1 mm tolerance. In a preferred embodiment, the joint plates are fully similar to each other or at least in terms of the positions of their first fastening and positioning means.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, each said bottom end has a concave shaped bottom face, the slot being fitted to receive a portion of the protrusion, such as a pin portion thereof, such that the portion of the protrusion rests against the concave shaped bottom face of the bottom end in question.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the first group of fastening holes of each joint plate comprises plurality of fastening holes, such as two or more, preferably at least 4 fastening holes, preferably more.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the first group of fastening holes of each joint plate comprises fastening holes at different distances from the end face of the second beam, preferably at at least 2 different distances, more preferably at at least 3 different distances.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the equipment comprises at least a third beam having two planar side structures; wherein each said joint plate comprises a second fastening and positioning means, which comprise a second group of fastening holes; and a second positioning slot having a bottom end; and the third beam comprises at an end thereof on a first and second planar side structures thereof, which are opposite side structures, a counterpart fastening and positioning means for the second fastening and positioning means of the first and second joint plate, respectively, wherein the counterpart fastening and positioning means of each side structure comprises a group of counterpart fastening holes, and a positioning protrusion protruding (towards the side of the third beam) from the side structure in question or a protrusion member mounting hole for receiving a protrusion member comprised in the equipment and mountable such that it forms a positioning protrusion as defined; wherein the fastening holes and the bottom end of the positioning slot of the second fastening and positioning means of the first joint plate are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the joint plate, as the fastening holes and the positioning protrusion or protrusion member mounting hole of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the first side structure, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the first side structure; and the fastening holes and the bottom end of the positioning slot of the second fastening and positioning means of the second joint plate are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the joint plate, as the fastening holes and the positioning protrusion or protrusion member mounting hole of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the second side structure, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the second side structure.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the third elongated beam is in the mounting position fully outside the first beam and vice versa.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, each joint plate comprises a third fastening and positioning means, which comprise a third group of fastening holes; and one or two third positioning slots having a bottom end; and the first beam comprises on a first and second planar side structures thereof, which are opposite side structures, a counterpart fastening and positioning means for the third fastening and positioning means of the first and second joint plate, respectively, wherein the counterpart fastening and positioning means of each side structure comprises a group of counterpart fastening holes, and one or two positioning protrusions protruding (in particular towards a side of the third beam) from the side structure in question or a protrusion member mounting hole for receiving a protrusion member comprised in the equipment and mountable such that it forms a positioning protrusion as defined; wherein the fastening holes and the bottom ends of the one or two positioning slots of the third fastening and positioning means of the first joint plate are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the joint plate, as the fastening holes and the one or two positioning protrusions or protrusion member mounting holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the first side structure, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the first side structure; and the fastening holes and the bottom ends of the one or two positioning slots of the third fastening and positioning means of the second joint plate are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the joint plate, as the fastening holes and the one or two positioning protrusions or protrusion member mounting holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the second side structure, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the second side structure.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the equipment comprises fastening members placed or placeable to extend through the fastening holes of the first fastening and positioning means of the first joint plate and the counterpart fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the first side structure of the second beam; and fastening members placed or placeable to extend through the fastening holes of the first fastening and positioning means of the second joint plate and the counterpart fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the second side structure of the second beam.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the equipment comprises fastening members placed or placeable to extend through the fastening holes of the second fastening and positioning means of the first joint plate and the counterpart fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the first side structure of the third beam; and fastening members placed or placeable to extend through the fastening holes of the second fastening and positioning means of the second joint plate and the counterpart fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the second side structure of the third beam.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the elongated beams are metal beams, most preferably elongated steel beams and / or the joint plates are metal plates, most preferably steel plates. The beams and the joint plates are preferably made of metal, most preferably of steel. In a preferred embodiment, each said beam is a metal beam, most preferably a steel beam, and the edges of the counterpart fastening holes (211,221; 113,123; 511,521) of the second beam and / or of the first beam and / or of the third beam [if present] have been softened, preferably by means of laser machining or heat treatment. The edges have then preferably been softened such that the hardness of the edge is approximately 1 / 3 to 1 / 2 of the hardness of the fastening members [71,72,73,74,75,76] and / or such that the hardness of the edge is lower than hardness of the other parts of the beam in question. The softening has been made so as to better allow fastening members to penetrate through the fastening holes in question. The counterpart fastening holes of the second beam and / or the counterpart fastening holes of the first beam and / or the counterpart fastening holes the third beam [if present] are preferably made smaller than the diameter of the fastening members [71,72;73,74;75,76] to be driven into the counterpart fastening holes in question.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, each said slot of a joint plate or of a planar side structure extends through the joint plate in question in thickness direction of the plate, or through the planar side structure in question in thickness direction of the planar side structure, respectively.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, each said slot of a joint plate or of a planar side structure is open towards side of the joint plate in question, or towards side of the planar side structure in question, respectively.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, each said slot of a joint plate or of a planar side structure is open in direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the joint plate in question, or in direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the planar side structure in question, respectively.

[0044] It is also introduced a new beam structure, such as a truss or a lattice girder, for example, which beam structure comprises plurality of elongated beams connected to each other, the beam structure comprising the equipment as defined anywhere above or in any of the claims of the application.

[0045] With this kind of solution one or more of the above-mentioned objects can be facilitated.

[0046] Preferable further details of the beam structure are introduced in the following, which further details can be combined with the beam structure individually or in any combination.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the beam structure comprises fastening members extending through the fastening holes of the first fastening and positioning means of the first joint plate and the counterpart fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the first side structure of the second beam; and fastening members extending through the fastening holes of the first fastening and positioning means of the second joint plate and the counterpart fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the second side structure of the second beam.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the beam structure comprises fastening members extending through the fastening holes of the second fastening and positioning means of the first joint plate and the fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the first side structure of the third beam; and fastening members extending through the fastening holes of the first fastening and positioning means of the second joint plate and the fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the second side structure of the third beam.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, in the beam structure the second elongated beam is placed in a mounting position between the joint plates fixed against the opposite side structures of the first beam, wherein in said mounting position the fastening holes of the joint plates are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the side structures of the second beam; and preferably moreover the positioning protrusions are in the bottom ends of the positioning slots, in particular resting against the bottom faces of the bottom ends.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, in said mounting position the positioning protrusion of the first side structure is in the bottom end of the slot of the first joint plate, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end, or vice versa, and the positioning protrusion of the second side structure is in the bottom end of the slot of the second joint plate, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end, or vice versa.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, in the beam structure the third elongated beam is placed in a mounting position between the joint plates fixed against the opposite side structures of the first beam, wherein in said mounting position the fastening holes of the joint plates are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the side structures of the third beam; and preferably moreover the protrusion of the first side structure is in the bottom end of the slot of the first joint plate, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end, and the protrusion of the second side structure is in the bottom end of the slot of the second joint plate, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end.

[0052] It is also introduced a new method for fabricating a beam structure, such as a truss for example, which beam structure comprises plurality of elongated beams connected to each other. The method comprises providing the equipment as defined in any of the preceding claims; and placing the second elongated beam in a mounting position between the joint plates fixed against the opposite side structures of the first beam, in particular by sliding it into and / or inside the mounting space, wherein in said mounting position the positioning protrusions are in the bottom ends of the slots, in particular resting against the bottom faces of the bottom ends, and the fastening holes of the joint plates are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the side structures of the second beam; and thereafter fastening the second elongated beam to the joint plates with fastening members extending through the aligned fastening holes and counterpart fastening holes, in particular by driving fastening members to extend through the fastening holes of the first fastening and positioning means of the first joint plate and the counterpart fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the first side structure, and by driving fastening members to extend through the fastening holes of the first fastening and positioning means of the second joint plate and the counterpart fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the second side structure.

[0053] With this kind of solution one or more of the above-mentioned objects can be facilitated.

[0054] Preferable further details of the method are introduced in the following, which further details can be combined with the method individually or in any combination.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, in said mounting position the positioning protrusion of the first side structure is in the bottom end of the slot of the first joint plate, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end, or vice versa and the positioning protrusion of the second side structure is in the bottom end of the slot of the second joint plate, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end, or vice versa.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, in said sliding the second elongated beam is moved such that the protrusion of the first side structure moves into the slot of the first joint plate and further in the slot towards the bottom end of the slot, in particular until it rests against the bottom face of the bottom end, and the protrusion of the second side structure moves into the slot of the second joint plate and further in the slot towards the bottom end of the slot, in particular until it rests against the bottom face of the bottom end.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises placing a third elongated beam in a mounting position between the joint plates fixed against the opposite side structures of the first beam, in particular by sliding it into and / or inside the mounting space, wherein in said mounting position the protrusion of the first side structure of the third beam is in the bottom end of the slot of the first joint plate, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end, and the protrusion of the second side structure of the third beam is in the bottom end of the slot of the second joint plate, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end, wherein in said mounting position of the beam, the fastening holes of the joint plates are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the side structures of the third beam; and thereafter fastening the third elongated beam to the joint plates with fastening members extending through the aligned fastening holes and the counterpart fastening holes, in particular by driving fastening members to extend through the fastening holes of the first fastening and positioning means of the first joint plate and the counterpart fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the first side structure of the third beam, and by driving fastening members to extend through the fastening holes of the first fastening and positioning means of the second joint plate and the counterpart fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the second side structure of the third beam.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises fixing the joint plates to the first beam against the opposite side structures thereof.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment, fixing of each joint plate comprises placing the joint plate in question against a side structure such that the positioning protrusions of the side structure are in the bottom ends of the slots of the joint plate, in particular resting against the bottom faces of the bottom ends, and the fastening holes of the joint plate are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the side structure of the first beam; and thereafter fastening the joint plate to the first elongated beam with fastening members extending through the aligned fastening holes, in particular by driving fastening members to extend through the fastening holes of the third fastening and positioning means of the joint plate and the fastening holes of the counterpart fastening and positioning means of the side structure of the first beam.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, in the equipment, beam structure and method the fastening members are screws or bolts or rivets or pins or nail gun nails. Most preferably, the fastening members are self-tapping screws.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment, in the equipment, beam structure and method preferably the protrusion members are fastening members, preferably screws, most preferably self-tapping screws, and / or the protrusions are formed by protrusion members in the form of fastening members, preferably screws, most preferably self-tapping screws.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, in the equipment, beam structure and method the mounting holes for receiving a protrusion member are preferably pilot holes and / or the counterpart fastening holes of the second and / or third beam are pilot holes.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, in the equipment, beam structure and method the fastening holes of the joint plates and their counterpart fastening holes are circular.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, in the equipment, beam structure and method each said elongated beam is a profile beam, with constant or at least substantially constant cross sectional profile.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment, in the equipment, beam structure and method the elongated beams have the same thickness, in particular such that the faces of the two planar side structures of the second elongated beam and / or the faces of the two planar side structures of third beam are at same distance from each other as the faces of the two planar side structures of the first elongated beam.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment, in the equipment, beam structure and method each said elongated beam is a rectangular tubular beam. Preferably, each rectangular tubular beam in particular comprises four walls which are at right angle relative to each other and surround an interior of the tubular beam. The walls of the tubular beam form planar side structures of the beam. The corners between adjacent walls can be rounded. A rectangular tubular beam can be simply made rigid with small amount of material and such a beam has planar side structures and thereby well suitable to be connected to other beam(s) using joint plates as described. Alternatively, each said elongated beam or some of them, could be an U-beam, I-beam or H-beam. These too are rigid and have planar side structures, and thereby suitable to be connected to other beam(s) using joint plates as described.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, in the equipment, beam structure and method, the joint plates of the equipment are preferably fixed or at least fixable against the opposite side structures of the first beam such that the first beam is between the joint plates. The joint plates of the equipment are preferably fixed or at least fixable against the opposite side structures of the first beam with fastening members, in particular preferably with fastening members extending through fastening holes of the joint plates and counterpart fastening holes of the opposite side structures of the first beam. The fixing by using fastening members facilitates forming the beams structure without the need for welding. The fastening members are preferably screws. Here, the screws are most preferably self-tapping screws, but alternatively they could be bolts or rivets or pins or nail gun nails.

[0068] Brief description of the drawings

[0069] In the following, the present invention will be described in more detail by way of example and with reference to the attached drawings, in which

[0070] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate the equipment for fabricating a beam structure according to an embodiment in a partially non-assembled state.

[0071] Figures 3 and 4 illustrate the equipment of Figures 1 and 2 in a state where fastening holes and counterpart fastening holes of the equipment have been arranged in alignment, thereby enabling fastening members to be driven precisely through them.

[0072] Figures 5 and 6 illustrate the equipment of Figures 1 and 2 in an assembled state.

[0073] Figures 7 and 8 illustrate fixing of joint plates to the opposite side structures of the first beam.

[0074] Figure 9 illustrates beams and joint plates of the equipment of Figures 1 and 2 in a non-assembled state as viewed in direction, which is perpendicular to the joint plates and the planar first and second side structures of the beams.

[0075] Figure 10 illustrates schematically a cross-sectional view of a positioning member, which is in the bottom end of a slot. Figure 11 illustrates a preferred shape of the end face of a second elongated beam of the equipment of Figures 1 and 2 as viewed from direction of the first beam and from below in Figures 1 and 2.

[0076] Figure 12 illustrates a preferred shape of the end face of a third elongated beam of the equipment of Figures 1 and 2 as viewed from direction of the first beam and from below in Figures 1 and 2.

[0077] Figure 13 illustrates beams and joint plates for fabricating a beam structure prior to assembling them into a beam structure.

[0078] Figure 14 illustrates an embodiment of a beam structure according to an embodiment.

[0079] Figures 15 and 16 illustrate the equipment for fabricating a beam structure according to a second and alternative embodiment in a partially nonassembled state, wherein the slot-and-protrusion -pairs are provided on the joint plates and the beams in inverted manner as compared to the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2.

[0080] Detailed description

[0081] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate from opposites sides an equipment 10 for fabricating a beam structure 100 according to an embodiment, wherein the beam structure 100, which may be a truss for example, comprises elongated beams 1,2,5 connected to each other.

[0082] The equipment 10 comprises a first elongated beam 1 having two planar side structures 11,12 and a second elongated beam 2 having two planar side structures 21,22. The equipment 10 moreover comprises a first and a second joint plate 3,4, which are fixed or at least fixable, to and against the opposite side structures 11,12 of the first beam 1, in particular such that a mounting space C for accommodating an end of at least the second beam 2 is formed beside the first beam 1 between the first and a second joint plate 3,4. Figures 1 and 2 illustrate the first and second joint plate 3,4 in the fixed state. The fixing has been done by fastening means but alternatively it could be done by welding.

[0083] Each joint plate 3,4 comprises a first fastening and positioning means 31,32;41,42, which comprise a first group of fastening holes 31;41 and a first positioning feature Fl. Each said first positioning feature Fl is in the illustrated embodiment a first positioning slot 32;42 having a bottom end 321;421.

[0084] The second beam 2 comprises at an end thereof on a first and second planar side structures 21,22 thereof, which are opposite side structures of the beam 2, a counterpart fastening and positioning means 211, ,212; 221, 222 for the first fastening and positioning means 31,32;41,42 of the first and second joint plate 3,4, respectively. The counterpart fastening and positioning means 211,212;221,222 of each side structure 21,22 comprises a group of counterpart fastening holes 211;221, and a counterpart positioning feature F2, which is counterpart to the first positioning feature Fl of the first fastening and positioning means (31,32;41,42). Each said counterpart positioning feature F2 is in the illustrated embodiment a positioning protrusion 212;222 protruding, in particular towards a side of the second beam 2, from the side structure 21,22 in question.

[0085] As an alternative to comprising said protrusion, the counterpart fastening and positioning means 211,212;221,222 of each side structure 21,22 [and in the illustrated example more specifically each said counterpart positioning feature F2] can comprise a protrusion member mounting hole 212h for receiving a protrusion member comprised in the equipment 10 and mountable such that it forms a positioning protrusion 212,222 as defined and illustrated. Said protrusion member can be a screw for example. The mounting hole 212h provides a possibility to form the protrusion(s) later e.g. during use of the equipment 10 by driving a protrusion member into each mounting hole 212h.

[0086] The fastening holes 31 and the bottom end 321 of the positioning slot 32 of the first fastening and positioning means 31,32 of the first joint plate 3 are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the first joint plate 3, as the fastening holes 211 and the positioning protrusion 212 or protrusion member mounting hole 212h of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 211,212 of the first side structure 21, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the first side structure 21. The fastening holes 41 and the bottom end 421 of the positioning slot 42 of the first fastening and positioning means 41,42 of the second joint plate 4 are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the second joint plate 4, as the fastening holes 221 and the positioning protrusion 222 or protrusion member mounting hole 222h of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 221,222 of the second side structure 22, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the second side structure 22. Figure 9 illustrates the equipment 10 as viewed in perpendicular direction to the joint plates 3,4.

[0087] Owing to corresponding relative positioning, the joint plates 3,4 and the respective side structures 21,22 can be positioned, in particular superposed, such that the defined features of the joint plate 3,4 overlap with the defined features of the side structures 21,22 when viewed in perpendicular direction to them.

[0088] The second elongated beam 2, in particular an end thereof, is placed or placeable in a mounting position [more specifically in a mounting position of the second beam 2] between the joint plates 3,4 fixed against the opposite side structures 11,12 of the first beam 1, in particular by sliding it into and / or inside the mounting space C, wherein in said mounting position the protrusion 212 of the first side structure 21 is in the bottom end 321 of the slot 32 of the first joint plate 3, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end 321, and the protrusion 222 of the second side structure 22 is in the bottom end 421 of the slot 42 of the second joint plate 4, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end 421, and the fastening holes 31;41 of the joint plates 3,4 are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes 211; 221 of the second beam 2, i.e. the fastening holes 31 of the first joint plate 3 are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes 211 of the first side structure 21 of the second beam 2 and the fastening holes 41 of the second joint plate 4 are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes 221 of the second side structure 22 of the second beam 2. Figures 3 and 4 illustrate from opposites sides an equipment 10, when the second elongated beam 2, in particular an end thereof, is placed in the mounting space C as defined above.

[0089] In the preferred embodiment, the second elongated beam 2 is preferably moreover placed in said mounting position between the joint plates 3,4 fixed against the opposite planar side structures 11,12 of the first beam 1 such that the end face 2f of the second beam 2 is between the joint plates 3,4 resting against a third planar side structure 13 of the first beam 1, or at most 1 mm apart from it, which third planar side structure 13 faces in direction perpendicular to said two planar side structures 11; 12 of the first beam 1. The end face 2f of the second beam 2 comprises at least a planar face portion 2fl,2f2, or plurality of coplanar planar face portions 2fl,2f2, and when the second elongated beam 2 is placed in the mounting position thereof, said planar face portion 2fl,2f2 or plurality of coplanar face portions 2fl,2f2 are parallel to the third planar side structure 13 of the first beam 1 resting against the third planar side structure 13 or being at most 1 mm apart from it. This kind of positioning of the end face and / or the face portion 2fl,2f2 thereof facilitates rigidity of the connection against pivoting as well as positioning of them into the mounting position so that the fastening holes and their counterparts will be aligned.

[0090] The structure is more specifically such that said plurality of coplanar planar face portions 2fl,2f2 comprise a first planar face portion 2fl and second planar face portion 2f2, which are displaced in longitudinal direction of the first elongated beam 1 when the second elongated beam 2 is placed in the mounting position thereof. This facilitates rigidity of the connection against pivoting as well as positioning of them into the mounting position so that the fastening holes and their counterparts will be aligned. Preferably, more specifically the second elongated beam 2 is a rectangular tubular beam and the first and second planar face portions 2fl,2f2 are end faces of opposite walls of the second rectangular tubular beam 2, in particular end faces of opposite walls of the rectangular tubular beam 2, which walls are perpendicular to the side structures 11,12 of the first elongated beam 1 when the second elongated beam 2 is placed in the mounting position thereof.

[0091] In the preferred embodiment, the first elongated beam 1 is a rectangular tubular beam and the third planar side structure 13 is a planar plate section of the rectangular tubular beam 1, which planar plate section forms a wall of the rectangular tubular beam 1.

[0092] In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the slots of the joint plates 3,4 are in cooperation with said protrusions 212;222 of the second beam 2 arranged to position the second beam 2, when slided into and / or inside the mounting space C, into a mounting position where the fastening holes 31:41 of the joint plates 3,4 and the corresponding counterpart fastening holes 211,221 of the second beam 2 are in alignment, thereby enabling fastening members 71,72, such as fastening screws, to be driven precisely through the aligned fastening holes and counterpart fastening holes 31,211;41,221 for thereby rigidly connecting the joint plates 3,4 and the second beam 1,2 to each other.

[0093] The beams 1,2 are preferably metal beams, most preferably steel beams, and the joint plates 3,4 are metal plates, most preferably steel plates. Preferably, the second beam 2 is a rectangular tubular beam as illustrated.

[0094] In the preferred embodiment, the end face 2f comprises coplanar end face portions 2fl,2f2 which are planar and end faces of walls of the rectangular tubular beam 2. Thus, they can simply be made to rest against a third planar side structure 13 of the first beam 1, or at most 1 mm apart from it, when the beam 2 is in the mounting position thereof.

[0095] With regard to positioning of the features of the second beam 2, more specifically, the protrusion 212;222 of each side structure 21,22 of the second beam 2 is farther from an end face 2f of the second beam 2 than most, preferably all, of the counterpart fastening holes 211;221 of the side structure 21,22 in question. With regard to positioning of the features of the joint plates 3,4, correspondingly, the bottom end 321;421 of each joint plate 3,4 is closer to an edge of the joint plate in question 3,4 from which edge the slot extends towards the central portion of plate in question, than most, preferably all, of the fastening holes 31;41 of the joint plate 3,4 in question.

[0096] In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the second elongated beam 2 is in the mounting position thereof fully outside the first beam 1, and vice versa. This is made possible by the rigid connection that can be produced by aid of the joint plates 3,4 accurately simply and rigidly by aid of the fastening and positioning means and the counterpart fastening and positioning means. The positioning of the beams 1,2 outside each other is advantageous, since thereby no large holes need to be made into said beams 1,2 which would weaken the structure of the beam 1,2 as well as make fabrication of the equipment more complicated.

[0097] The joint plates 3,4 of the equipment 10 are fixed or at least fixable against the opposite side structures 11,12 of the first beam 1 such that they are parallel with each other, their opposing faces 3a, 4a being parallel and planar and defining between them the mounting space C, wherein the mounting space C width corresponds to the thickness of the second beam 2 preferably exactly or with at most +1 mm tolerance.

[0098] Preferably, the joint plates 3,4 are fully similar to each other or at least in terms of the positions of their first fastening and positioning means 31,32;41,42. Similarity facilitates simplicity of fabrication process as well as replaceability and usability of components more freely and interchangeably, but this is not necessary. Namely, more important is the corresponding relative positioning of the positioning and fastening features of the joint plate 3,4 and the counterpart positioning of positioning and fastening features of the respective side structure 21,22. With regard to the slot 32,42, said bottom end 321;421 of the slot 32,42 has a concave shaped bottom face, the slot being fitted to receive a portion of the protrusion 212;222, such as a pin portion thereof, such that the portion of the protrusion rests against the concave shaped bottom face of the slot end 321;421 in question.

[0099] The first group of fastening holes 31;41 of each joint plate 3,4 preferably comprises plurality of fastening holes, such as two or more, preferably at least 4 fastening holes, preferably more. Likewise, the group of counterpart fastening holes 211;221 preferably comprises plurality of fastening holes, such as two or more, preferably at least 4 fastening holes, preferably more. Great number of fastening holes facilitates that they can be made small and achieve a strong connection without much reducing strength and rigidity of the structures to be connected. Small holes are also relatively simple and quick to make, and they can be engaged to with screws such as with self-tapping screws firmly. The number of fastening holes 31;41 of the first group of fastening holes 31;41 is the same as the number of counterpart fastening holes of the corresponding group of counterpart fastening holes 211;221.

[0100] The first group of fastening holes 31;41 of each joint plate 3,4 comprises fastening holes at different distances from the end face 2f of the second beam 2, preferably at at least 2 different distances, more preferably at at least 3 different distances. Thus, the holes are distributed such that a large connection area can be produced which facilitates rigidity while avoiding reducing strength of the components.

[0101] In the preferred embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, the mounting space C is suitable for accommodating, in addition to the end of the second beam 2, an end of a third beam 5. Thus, using the joint plates 3,4, three beams 1,2,5 can be connected to each other. Thus, a node where three beams connected to each other can be formed. In the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, this is facilitated such that the equipment 10 comprises a third beam 5 having two planar side structures 51,52 and each said joint plate 3,4 comprises a second fastening and positioning means 33,34,43,44, which comprise a second group of fastening holes 33,43; and a second positioning slot 34;44 having a bottom end 321;421. The third beam 5 comprises at an end thereof on a first and second planar side structures 51,52 thereof, which are opposite side structures, a counterpart fastening and positioning means 511,512,521,522 for the second fastening and positioning means 33,34,43,44 of the first and second joint plate 3,4, respectively. The counterpart fastening and positioning means 511,512,521,522 of each side structure 51,52 of the third beam 5 comprises a group of counterpart fastening holes 511;521, and a positioning protrusion 512,522 protruding [in particular towards a side of the third beam 5] from the side structure 51,52 in question or a protrusion member mounting hole 512h;522h for receiving a protrusion member comprised in the equipment and mountable such that it forms a positioning protrusion 512,522 as defined.

[0102] The fastening holes 33 and the bottom end 341 of the positioning slot 34 of the second fastening and positioning means 33,34 of the first joint plate 3 are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the joint plate 3, as the counterpart fastening holes 511 and the positioning protrusion 512 or protrusion member mounting hole 512h of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 511,512 of the first side structure

[0103] 51, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the first side structure 51. The fastening holes 43 and the bottom end 421 of the positioning slot 44 of the second fastening and positioning means 43,44 of the second joint plate 4 are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the joint plate, as the counterpart fastening holes 521 and the positioning protrusion 522 or protrusion member mounting hole 522h of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 521,522 of the second side structure 52, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the second side structure

[0104] 52.

[0105] Owing to corresponding relative positioning, the joint plates 3,4 and the respective side structures 51,52 can be positioned, in particular superposed, such that the defined features of the joint plate 3,4 overlap with the defined features of the side structures 51,52 when viewed in perpendicular direction to them.

[0106] The third elongated beam 5, in particular an end thereof, is placed or placeable in a mounting position [more specifically in a mounting position of the third beam 5] between the joint plates 3,4 fixed against the opposite side structures 11,12 of the first beam 1, in particular by sliding it into and / or inside the mounting space C, wherein in said mounting position the protrusion 512 of the first side structure 51 is in the bottom end 341 of the slot 34 of the first joint plate 3, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end 341, and the protrusion 522 of the second side structure 52 is in the bottom end 441 of the slot 44 of the second joint plate 4, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end 441, and the fastening holes 33;43 of the joint plates 3,4 are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes 511;521 of the third beam 5. Figures 3 and 4 illustrate from opposites sides an equipment 10, when the third elongated beam 5, in particular an end thereof, is placed in the mounting space C as defined above.

[0107] In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the third elongated beam 5 is in the mounting position thereof fully outside the first beam 1, and vice versa.

[0108] In the preferred embodiment, the third elongated beam 5 is preferably moreover placed in said mounting position between the joint plates 3,4 fixed against the opposite planar side structures 11,12 of the first beam 1 such that an end face 5f of the third beam 5 is between the joint plates 3,4 resting against a third planar side structure 13 of the first beam 1, or at most 1 mm apart from it, which third planar side structure 13 is perpendicular to said two planar side structures 11; 12 of the first beam 1. The third planar side structure 13 faces in direction perpendicular to directions where said two planar side structures 11; 12 of the first beam 1 face. The end face 5f of the third beam 2 comprises at least a planar face portion 5fl,5f2, or plurality of coplanar planar face portions 5fl,5f2, and when the third elongated beam 5 is placed in the mounting position thereof, said planar face portion 5fl,5f2 or plurality of coplanar face portions 5f l,5f2 are parallel to the third planar side structure 13 of the first beam 1 resting against the third planar side structure 13 or being at most 1 mm apart from it. This kind of positioning of the end face 5f and / or the face portion(s) 5f l,5f2 thereof facilitates rigidity of the connection against pivoting as well as positioning of them into the mounting position so that the fastening holes and their counterparts will be aligned.

[0109] The structure is more specifically such that said plurality of coplanar planar face portions 5f l,5f2 comprise a first planar face portion 5fl and second planar face portion 5f2, which are displaced in longitudinal direction of the first elongated beam 1 when the third elongated beam 5 is placed in the mounting position thereof. This facilitates rigidity of the connection against pivoting as well as positioning of them into the mounting position so that the fastening holes and their counterparts will be aligned. Preferably, more specifically the third elongated beam 5 is a rectangular tubular beam and the first and second planar face portions 5fl,5f2 are end faces of opposite walls of the rectangular tubular beam 5, in particular end faces of opposite walls of the rectangular tubular beam 5, which walls are perpendicular to the side structures 11,12 of the first elongated beam 1 when the third elongated beam 5 is placed in the mounting position thereof.

[0110] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate the joint plates 3,4 fixed against the opposite planar side structures 11,12 of the first beam 1. Here the fixing has been accomplished by aid of fastening members 73,74. Figures 7 and 8 illustrate fixing of the joint plates 3,4 fixed against the opposite planar side structures 11,12 of the first beam 1 and the structures enabling this. For facilitating the fixing, each joint plate 3,4 comprises a third fastening and positioning means 35,36;45,46, which comprise a third group of fastening holes 35;45; and two third positioning slots 36;46 having a bottom end 361;461. The first beam 1 comprises on a first and second planar side structures 11,12 thereof, which are opposite side structures, a counterpart fastening and positioning means 113,114; 123,124 for the third fastening and positioning means 35,36,45,46 of the first and second joint plate 3,4, respectively, wherein the counterpart fastening and positioning means 113,114;123,124 of each side structure 11,12 comprises a group of counterpart fastening holes 113; 123, and two positioning protrusions 114,124 protruding [in particular towards a side of the first beam 1] from the side structure 11,12 in question or a protrusion member mounting hole 114h,124h for receiving a protrusion member comprised in the equipment and mountable such that it forms a positioning protrusion 114,124 as defined. The fastening holes 35 and the bottom ends 361 of the positioning slots 36 of the third fastening and positioning means 35,36 of the first joint plate 3 are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the joint plate 3, as the fastening holes 113 and the positioning protrusions 114 or protrusion member mounting holes 114h of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 113,114 of the first side structure 11, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the first side structure 11. The fastening holes 45 and the bottom ends 461 of the positioning slots 46 of the third fastening and positioning means 45,46 of the second joint plate 4 are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the joint plate 4, as the fastening holes 123 and the positioning protrusions 124 or protrusion member mounting holes 124h of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 123,124 of the second side structure 12, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the second side structure 12.

[0111] The equipment 10 moreover comprises fastening members 71 placeable to extend through the fastening holes 31 of the first fastening and positioning means 31,32 of the first joint plate 3 and the fastening holes 211 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 211,212 of the first side structure 21 of the second beam 2, and fastening members 72 placeable to extend through the fastening holes 41 of the first fastening and positioning means 41,42 of the second joint plate 4 and the fastening holes 221 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 221,222 of the second side structure 22 of the second beam 2. Figures 1-4 illustrate the fastening members 71,72 before being placed as defined, and Figures 5 and 6 when placed as defined.

[0112] When intended for connecting three beams 1,2 and 5, as it is the case in the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2 for example, the equipment 10 moreover comprises fastening members 73 placeable to extend through the fastening holes 33 of the second fastening and positioning means 33,34 of the first joint plate 3 and the counterpart fastening holes 511 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 511,512 of the first side structure 51 of the third beam 5; and fastening members 74 placeable to extend through the fastening holes 43 of the first fastening and positioning means 43,44 of the second joint plate 4 and the fastening holes 521 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 521,522 of the second side structure 52 of the third beam 5. Figures 1-4 illustrate the fastening members 73,74 before being placed as defined, and Figures 5 and 6 when placed as defined.

[0113] In an embodiment of a method for fabricating a beam structure 100, such as a truss for example, which beam structure 100 comprises plurality of elongated beams 1,2,5 connected to each other, the method comprises a step SI of providing the equipment 10 as described referring to Figures 1-2.

[0114] Figures 1-2 illustrate in a phase where the joint plates 3,4 have been fixed to and against the opposite side structures 11,12 of the first beam 1, in particular such that a mounting space C for accommodating an end of at least a second beam 2, possibly also an end of a third beam 5 as will be described, is formed beside the first beam 1 between the first and a second joint plate 3,4.

[0115] After said step SI, the method comprises a step S2 of placing the second elongated beam 2 in a mounting position between the joint plates 3,4 fixed against the opposite side structures 11,12 of the first beam 1, in particular by sliding it into and / or inside the mounting space C, wherein in said mounting position the protrusion 212 of the first side structure 21 is in the bottom end 321 of the slot 32 of the first joint plate 3, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end 321, and the protrusion 222 of the second side structure 22 is in the bottom end 421 of the slot 42 of the second joint plate 4, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end 421, wherein in said mounting position of the beam 2 [i.e. when the second elongated beam

[0116] 2 in a mounting position], the fastening holes 31;41 of the joint plates 3,4 are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes 211;221 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 221,222 of the side structures 21;22 of the second beam 2. Figures 3-4 illustrate the second beam 2 thus placed.

[0117] In said sliding the second elongated beam 2 is moved such that the protrusion 212 of the first side structure 21 moves into the slot 32 of the first joint plate

[0118] 3 and further in the slot 32 towards the bottom end 321 of the slot 32, in particular until it rests against the bottom face of the bottom end 321, and the protrusion 222 of the second side structure 22 moves into the slot 42 of the second joint plate 4 and further in the slot 42 towards the bottom end 421 of the slot 42, in particular until it rests against the bottom face of the bottom end 421.

[0119] After step S2, the method comprises step of fastening S3 the second elongated beam 2 to the joint plates 3,4 with fastening members 71,72 extending through the aligned fastening holes 31,211;41,221, in particular by driving fastening members 71 to extend through the fastening holes 31 of the first fastening and positioning means 31,32 of the first joint plate 3 and the counterpart fastening holes 211 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 211,212 of the first side structure 21, and by driving fastening members 72 to extend through the fastening holes 41 of the first fastening and positioning means 41,42 of the second joint plate 4 and the fastening holes 221 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 221,222 of the second side structure 22. Figures 5-6 illustrate the second beam 2 thus fastened to the joint plates 3,4 with fastening members 71,72.

[0120] When it is intention to connect three beams 1,2 and 5, as it is the case in the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2 for example, after said step SI, the method comprises a step S2' of placing the third elongated beam 5 in a mounting position between the joint plates 3,4 fixed against the opposite side structures 11,12 of the first beam 1, in particular by sliding it into and / or inside the mounting space C, wherein in said mounting position the protrusion 512 of the first side structure 51 of the third beam 5 is in the bottom end 341 of the slot 34 of the first joint plate 3, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end 341, and the protrusion 522 of the second side structure 52 of the third beam 5 is in the bottom end 441 of the slot 44 of the second joint plate 4, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end 441, wherein in said mounting position of the beam 5 [i.e. when the third elongated beam 5 in a mounting position], the fastening holes 33;43 of the joint plates 3,4 are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes 511;521 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 521,522 of the side structures 51;52 of the third beam 5. Figures 3-4 illustrate the third beam 5 thus placed.

[0121] In said sliding the third elongated beam 5 is moved such that the protrusion 512 of the first side structure 51 moves into the slot 34 of the first joint plate 3 and further in the slot 34 towards the bottom end 341 of the slot 34, in particular until it rests against the bottom face of the bottom end 341, and the protrusion 522 of the second side structure 52 moves into the slot 44 of the second joint plate 4 and further in the slot 44 towards the bottom end 441 of the slot 44, in particular until it rests against the bottom face of the bottom end 441.

[0122] After step S2', the method comprises step of fastening S3' the third elongated beam 5 to the joint plates 3,4 with fastening members 73,74 extending through the aligned fastening holes 33,511;43,521, in particular by driving fastening members 73 to extend through the fastening holes 33 of the first fastening and positioning means 33,34 of the first joint plate 3 and the fastening holes 511 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 511,512 of the first side structure 51 of the third beam 5, and by driving fastening members 74 to extend through the fastening holes 43 of the first fastening and positioning means 43,44 of the second joint plate 4 and the fastening holes 521 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 521,522 of the second side structure 52 of the third beam 5. Figures 5-6 illustrate the third beam 5 thus fastened to the joint plates 3,4 with fastening members 73,74.

[0123] The steps S2-S3 can be performed before, after, or concurrently with the steps S2'-S3'.

[0124] For arriving at the state shown in Figures 1-2, where the joint plates 3,4 have been fixed to the first beam 1 against the opposite side structures 11,12 thereof, the method may comprise fixing Sl.l the joint plates 3,4 to the first beam 1 against the opposite side structures 11,12 thereof. Said step Sl.l is comprised in said step SI. Figure 7 illustrates fixing the first joint plate 3 against and to the first side structure 11 of the first beam 1. Figure 8 illustrates fixing the second joint plate 4 against and to the first second structure 12 of the first beam 1.

[0125] The fixing of each joint plate 4;5 comprises placing the joint plate 3,4 in question against a corresponding side structure 11; 12 such that the positioning protrusions 114,124 of the side structure 11;21 are in the bottom ends 361;461 of the slots 36;46 of the joint plate 3;4, in particular resting against the bottom faces of the bottom ends 361;461, and the fastening holes 35;45 of the joint plate 3;4 are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes 113; 123 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 113,114 of the side structure 11;12 of the first beam 1; and thereafter fastening the joint plate 3;4 to the first elongated beam 1 with fastening members 75,76 extending through the aligned fastening holes 113,35; 123,45, in particular by driving fastening members 75;76 to extend through the fastening holes 35;45 of the third fastening and positioning means 35,36;45,46 of the joint plate 3;4 and the fastening holes 113; 123 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 113,114 of the side structure 11;21 of the first beam 1. Figure 14 illustrates an embodiment of a beam structure 100 according to an embodiment, the beam structure 100 comprises plurality of elongated beams 1,2,5 connected to each other. The beam structure 100 is preferably a truss. The beam structure 100 comprises the equipment 10 as defined describing referring to Figures 1-6 in the assembled state illustrated an described referring to Figures 5-6.

[0126] The beam structure 100 comprises fastening members 71 extending through the fastening holes 31 of the first fastening and positioning means 31,32 of the first joint plate 3 and the counterpart fastening holes 211 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 211,212 of the first side structure 21 of the second beam 2; and fastening members 72 extending through the fastening holes 41 of the first fastening and positioning means 41,42 of the second joint plate 4 and the fastening holes 221 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 221,222 of the second side structure 22 of the second beam 2. The fastening members 71;72 are preferably screws, most preferably self-tapping screws, but alternatively they could be bolts or rivets or pins or nail gun nails.

[0127] In the beam structure 100 the joint plates 3,4 connect two or more beams 1,2,5 to each other, in the illustrated case three of them. Accordingly, the beam structure 100 and the equipment 10 thereof comprise a third beam 5 having two planar side structures 51,52. The beam structure 100 comprises fastening members 73 extending through the fastening holes 33 of the second fastening and positioning means 33,34 of the first joint plate 3 and the counterpart fastening holes 511 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 511,512 of the first side structure 51 of the third beam 5; and fastening members 74 extending through the fastening holes 43 of the second fastening and positioning means 43,44 of the second joint plate 4 and the counterpart fastening holes 521 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 521,522 of the second side structure 52 of the third beam 5. The fastening members 73;74 are preferably screws, most preferably self-tapping screws, but alternatively they could be bolts or rivets or pins or nail gun nails.

[0128] In the beam structure 100, the second elongated beam 2 is placed in a mounting position [more specifically in a mounting position of the second beam 2] between the joint plates 3,4 fixed against the opposite side structures 11,12 of the first beam 1, wherein in said mounting position the fastening holes 31;41 of the joint plates 3,4 are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes 211;221 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 211,212;221,222 of the side structures 21;22 of the second beam 2. In the beam structure 100, when the second elongated beam 2 in said mounting position moreover preferably the protrusion 212 of the first side structure 21 is in the bottom end 321 of the slot 32 of the first joint plate 3, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end 321, and the protrusion 222 of the second side structure 22 is in the bottom end 421 of the slot 42 of the second joint plate 4, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end 421. This provides additional rigidity, and this can further provide additional fastening effect, because the protrusions 212,222 can be formed by protrusion members in the form of fastening members, preferably screws, most preferably self-tapping screws correspondingly as the fastening members 71-74. Then the protrusions 212,222 are be formed by protrusion members in the form of fastening members, such as preferably screws, they are tightened in the method and have been tightened in the beam structure 100 to their final tightness only after the second elongated beam 2 has been placed in its mounting position.

[0129] In the beam structure 100, the third elongated beam 5 is placed in a mounting position [more specifically in a mounting position of the third beam 5] between the joint plates 3,4 fixed against the opposite side structures 11,12 of the first beam 1, wherein in said mounting position the fastening holes 33;43 of the joint plates 3,4 are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes 511; 521 of the counterpart fastening and positioning means 521,522 of the side structures 51;52 of the third beam 5.

[0130] In the beam structure 100, when the third elongated beam 5 in said mounting position moreover preferably the protrusion 512 of the first side structure 51 of the third beam 5 is in the bottom end 341 of the slot 34 of the first joint plate 3, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end 341, and the protrusion 522 of the second side structure 52 is in the bottom end 441 of the slot 44 of the second joint plate 4, in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end 441. This provides additional rigidity, and this can further provide additional fastening effect.

[0131] Figures 1 and 2, as well as Figures 3-14 illustrate an embodiment of the equipment where the slot-and-protrusion -pairs are provided on the joint plates 3,4 and the beams 2,5 such that the slots 32,34,42,44 are provided on the joint plates 3,4 and the protrusions 212,222,512,522 are provided on the beams 2,5. However, the slot-and-protrusion -pairs could alternatively be provided on the joint plates 3,4 and the beams 2,5 in inverted manner as compared to said embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, such that the slots 32,34,42,44 are provided on the beams 2,5 and the protrusions 212,222,512,522 are provided on the joint plates 3,4. Figures 15 and 16 illustrate the equipment for fabricating a beam structure according to a second and alternative embodiment in a partially non-assembled state, showing the solution implemented in such an inverted manner. With this solution, at least part of the advantages are achieved.

[0132] In Figure 15, the equipment 10' is illustrated from the corresponding direction as in Figures 9, 13 and 14, so that the mounting space (C) extends in Figure 15 behind the plate 3, and the beams 2 and 5 when slided into and / or inside the mounting space C are to be slid behind the plate 3. The protrusions 212,512 protrude in this embodiment into the mounting space C and towards the joint plate 4. In Figure 16, the equipment 10' is illustrated from the opposite side than Figure 15, so that the mounting space (C) extends in Figure 16 behind the plate 4, and the beams 2 and 5 when slided into and / or inside the mounting space C are to be slid behind the plate 4. The protrusions 222,522 protrude in this embodiment into the mounting space C and towards the joint plate 3.

[0133] In this second and alternative embodiment, each joint plate 3,4 comprises a first fastening and positioning means 31,32;41,42, which comprise a first group of fastening holes 31;41 and a first positioning feature Fl. Each said first positioning feature Fl is in the illustrated embodiment a positioning protrusion 212;222 protruding from the joint plate 3,4 in question, or alternatively a protrusion member mounting hole 212h for receiving a protrusion member comprised in the equipment 10 and mountable such that it forms a positioning protrusion 212,222 as defined and illustrated. Said protrusion member can be a screw or bolt for example. Each said counterpart positioning feature F2 is in the illustrated embodiment a first positioning slot 32;42 having a bottom end 321;421. In this embodiment, a positioning protrusion 212;222 protruding from each joint plates 3,4 extend inside the mounting space (C) for accommodating an end of at least a second beam (2). Thus, the positioning protrusion 212;222 protruding from the each joint plates 3,4 could be formed by different protrusion members or possibly by the same protrusion member extending across the mounting space (C), e.g. being mounted in the mounting holes 212h,222h.

[0134] In this second and alternative embodiment, the fastening holes 31,41 and their counterpart fastening holes 211,221 are as explained referring to embodiment illustrated in Figures 1-14. In this second and alternative embodiment, the positioning slots (32;42) and the counterpart positioning protrusions 212;222 cooperate correspondingly as explained referring to embodiment illustrated in Figures 1-14. They are just positioned in inverted manner. Accordingly, also the method can be performed correspondingly. The positioning slots (32;42), which are here those of the second beam (2), are in cooperation with said positioning protrusions (212;222), which are here those of the joint plates (3,4), arranged to position the second beam (2), when slided into and / or inside the mounting space (C), into a mounting position where the fastening holes (31:41) of the joint plates (3,4) and the corresponding counterpart fastening holes (211,221) of the second beam (2) are in alignment, thereby enabling fastening members (71,72), such as fastening screws, to be driven through the aligned fastening holes and counterpart fastening holes (31,211;41,221) for thereby rigidly connecting the joint plates (3,4) and the second beam (1,2) to each other.

[0135] Also in this second and alternative embodiment, the equipment (10) may comprise a third beam (5) having two planar side structures (51,52), as illustrated in Figures 15 and 16. Each said joint plate (3,4) then comprises a second fastening and positioning means (33,512,43,522) and the third beam (5) comprises at an end thereof on a first and second planar side structures (51,52) thereof, which are opposite side structures, a counterpart fastening and positioning means (511,34,521,44) for the second fastening and positioning means (33,512,43,522) of the first and second joint plate (3,4), respectively. Here the second fastening and positioning means (33,512,43,522) and their counterpart fastening and positioning means (511,34,521,44) are inverted compared to the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2 correspondingly as explained above with the second beam 2 of Figures 15-16.

[0136] Generally, the counterpart fastening and positioning means 211,212;221,222;511,512;521,522 of each side structure 21,22;51,52 can comprise the positioning protrusion 212,222; 512, 522 as defined or the equipment 10 can comprise means for providing such a protrusion. Figures 1- 2 illustrate the equipment 10 in a state where each side structure 21,22;51,52 comprise such a protrusion. Said means for providing such a protrusion comprise a protrusion member and a mounting hole 212h,222h,512h,522h for the protrusion member. Thus, the equipment 10 can be in a non-assembled state from which the equipment 10 can be brought together / assembled to be as illustrated in Figures 1-2. The protrusion member is preferably a screw, such as preferably a self-tapping screw, but it could alternatively be a bolt for example or a generally a pin inserted in the mounting hole 212h,22h,512h,522h.

[0137] Generally preferably, the fastening holes 31,33,35,41,43 of the joint plates 3,4 and their counterpart fastening holes 113, 123,211,511;221,521 are circular.

[0138] Generally preferably, the fastening holes 31,33,35,41,43 of the joint plates 3,4 and their counterpart fastening holes 113, 123,211,511;221,521 have the same diameter, but this is not necessary. Particularly, when the fastening members are self-tapping screws, one or more of the fastening holes 31,33,35,41,43 of the joint plates 3,4 and their counterpart fastening holes 113, 123,211,511;221,521 can be so called pilot holes into which a fastening member e.g. in the form of a self-tapping screw can be driven even though the pilot hole is tight and / or undersized for the screw in question.

[0139] Generally preferably, the diameter of the fastening holes 31,33,35,41,43 of the joint plates 3,4 and their counterpart fastening holes 113, 123,211,511;221,521 is greater than 3 mm (e.g. in the range 3-10 mm, most preferably in the range 3-6 mm), but this is not necessary. Thus, the fastening solution can be made strong and to suit well for joining large beams of a beam structure to be used in construction of large structures such as buildings, bridges or masts for example.

[0140] Generally preferably, when a fastening holes 31,33,35,41,43 of the joint plate 3,4 is aligned with its counterpart fastening hole 113, 123,211,511;221,521, they are coaxial.

[0141] Generally preferably, the width and height of each beam 2,3,5 of the equipment 10 is each greater than 40 mm, more preferably greater than 50 mm, such as within range 50 mm - 400 mm. Thus, the beam structure suits well to be used in construction of large structures such as buildings, bridges or masts for example. Generally preferably, the thickness of each of said joint plates 3,4 is within range 3 mm - 20 mm, more preferably within range 4-15 mm. Thus, they suit well for joining heavy weight beams. Thus, they suit well for joining large beams of a beam structure to be used in construction of large structures such as buildings, bridges or masts for example.

[0142] Generally, the bottom end of a slot 32,34,36 is the bottom end space of the slot 32,34,36 in question.

[0143] Generally, the relative positioning of features [fastening holes and positioning feature Fl, i.e. preferably the bottom end] of a joint plate being corresponding to relative positioning of features [counterpart fastening holes and counterpart positioning feature F2, i.e. preferably the positioning protrusion] of a side structure of a beam means that the features of a joint plate and the features of the side structure of a beam form corresponding arrays which arrays can be placed to overlap each other, in particular such that the projections of the fastening holes of the joint plate overlap with projections of the counterpart fastening holes of a side structure, and the projection of the positioning feature Fl, i.e. preferably the bottom end of the joint plate overlaps with the projection of the counterpart positioning feature F2, i.e. preferably the protrusion of the side structure.

[0144] Generally, the equipment 10 can be used to form connection between two beams 1,2 or more than two beams 1,2,5 such as three beams or four beams or more.

[0145] Generally preferably, the second elongated beam 2, when in its mounting position, is preferably oriented such that its longitudinal axis is at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the first beam 1, most preferably perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first beam 1, as illustrated. However, this perpendicular orientation is not necessary since the angle of second elongated beam 2 could be also different, e.g. such that both of beams 2 and 5 are at acute angle relative to the beam 1. Generally preferably, the third elongated beam 5, when in its mounting position, is preferably oriented such that its longitudinal axis is at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the first beam 1, most preferably at a different angle than the longitudinal axis of the second beam, to the longitudinal axis of the first beam 1 as illustrated.

[0146] Generally, the joint plates 3,4 can be used for connecting two or more beams 1,2,5 to each other, as becomes clear from Figures 13 and 14. Thus, a node where three beams connected to each other can be formed using the joint plates 3,4. If / when a node where only two beams connected to each other are to be formed using the joint plates 3,4, then the joint plates can be made without the second fastening and positioning means 33,34,43,44. Joint plates modified in this way have been illustrated in Figures 13 and 14 by reference numerals 3' and 4'.

[0147] Generally, the material of the beams 1,2,5 and the joint plates 3,4 is preferably metal, most preferably steel, in preferably in particular high-strength structural steel with a yield strength of 700 MPa or more and / or hardness in the order of 160 to 300 HV or more. The counterpart fastening holes 113,123,211,221,511,521 of each beam 1,2,5 are preferably made smaller than the diameter of the fastening members 71,72,73,74,75,76 to be driven into the counterpart fastening holes in question, and the edges of the counterpart fastening holes 113,123,211,221,511,521 have been softened by means of laser machining or heat treatment so as to allow the fastening members to penetrate through the undersized fastening holes in question. The holes 31,33,35 of the joint plates 3,4 can be correspondingly made smaller than the diameter of the fastening members 71,72,73,74,75,76 to be driven into the fastening holes in question, and softened as described. Preferably, the edges of the holes 113,123,211,221,511,521,31,33,35 are more specifically softened such that the hardness of the edge is approximately 1 / 3 to 1 / 2 of the hardness of the fastening members 71,72,73,74,75,76 and / or such that the hardness of the edge is lower than hardness of the other parts of the beam in question. The fastening members 71,72,73,74,75,76 are preferably hard metal screws. The surface hardness of hard metal screws is usually approximately 450 HV or more. The surface hardness of self-tapping screws is at least 450 HV 0.3 according to SFS-EN ISO 2702:2022, and the surface hardness of self- tapping screws is at least 530 HV 0.3 according to SFS-EN ISO 10666:2000. Thus, the edges of the holes are softened to a value of approximately 225 HV or less. The target value can be considered to be 0.38 of the value of the surface hardness of the screw. Sufficient softening is confirmed with the help of tests depending on the type of fastening means [e.g. the thread size and the hardness profile beyond the surface] and the material thickness of the high-strength structural steel plate in relation to the diameter of the fastening means. With a thicker plate, the probability of the thread breaking increases, hence in a thicker plate, the edge of the hole should be relatively softer. The fastening members may alternatively be, for example, bolts or slightly conical fastening pins inserted into the fastening holes by shooting or pressing, or rivets.

[0148] Generally, preferably each said elongated beam 1,2,5 is a metal beam, most preferably a beam made of steel. However, each or one or more of the beams could alternatively be made of some other material, such as for example of composite material such as of fiber reinforced plastic, wherein the fibers are carbon of glass fibers, for example.

[0149] Generally preferably, the planar side structures 11,12,21,22,51,52 are preferably planar plate sections. When the elongated beam 1,2,5 is a tubular beam, the planar side structures are planar plate sections of the tubular beam, which planar plate sections form walls of the tubular beam.

[0150] Generally, in the preferred embodiment, the two [i.e. the first and second] planar sides structures 11,12; 21,22 ;51,52 of each elongated beam 1,2,5 are parallel with each other. Thereby, the first and second planar side structures 11,12 of the first elongated beam 1 are parallel with each other. The planar sides structures 21,22 of the second elongated beam 2 are parallel with each other. The planar sides structures 51,52 of the third elongated beam 5, when present, are likewise parallel with each other.

[0151] Generally preferably, the fastening holes 31,33,35,45,41,43 are through-holes and / or the counterpart fastening holes 113,123,211,222,511,512 are through holes and / or the mounting holes 114h,124h,212h,222h,512h,522h are through holes. Most preferably, they are all are through holes, but alternatively one or more of them could be blind holes. The blind holes could then be relatively small preferably serving as pilot holes for later driving of a fastening member through them. The holes 31,33,35,45,41,43, 31,33,35,45,41,43, 114h,124h,212h,222h,512h,522h, irrespective of whether they are through holes or the blind holes, have preferably been made by laser cutting, waterjet cutting, drilling or alternatively by punching or by a combination of more than one of these techniques.

[0152] Generally, the mounting space C is open towards a side of the first beam 1, preferably more specifically in direction parallel with the planes of the joint plates 3,4 and / or in direction perpendicular to the third side structure 13 of the first beam 1 [upwards in Figures 1 and 2].

[0153] Generally, with regard to design of the slots 32,34,42,44,36,46, in particular of the joint plates 3,4, or of the planar side structures 21,22;51,52, each said slot 32,34,42,44,36,46 preferably extends through the joint plate 3,4 in thickness direction of the plate 3,4, or through the planar side structure 21,22;51,52 in thickness direction of the planar side structure 21,22;51,52, respectively. Each said slot 32,34,42,44,36,46 is preferably in particular open towards side of the joint plate 3,4 in question, or towards side of the planar side structure 21,22;51,52 in question, respectively. Each said slot 32,34,42,44,36,46 is open in particular in direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the joint plate 3,4 in question, or in direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the planar side structure 21,22;51,52 in question, respectively. This is preferable for simplicity of use, e.g. because thereby a protrusion can be brought simply into the slot by moving the beam 2,5 comprising said protrusion along a plane which is parallel with the joint plate 3,4 in question. However, this is not absolutely necessary, because the slot(s) could alternatively be closed, i.e not open as defined, in which case the slot(s) could be shaped as a keyhole type slot, for example, into which a protrusion member can be inserted in thickness direction of the joint plate by moving the beam 2,5 comprising said protrusion in direction perpendicular to the joint plate in question.

[0154] Generally preferably, each said slot 32,34,42,44,36,46 is V shaped. Alternatively, each said slot 32,34,42,44,36,46 could be U shaped. When V shaped, the slot 32,34,42,44,36,46 narrows towards the bottom end 321,341,421,441,361,461 thereof, which facilitates ease and quickness of use of the joint plate 3,4. The bottom face of each said slot 32,34,42,44,36,46 is preferably concave shaped and rounded, which facilitates positioning of a protrusion accurately against it in predetermined position with large contact area. The face of each said slot 32,34,42,44,36,46 is preferably concave shaped and has a semicircular shape, and the pin portion has circular shape, the radiuses of said semicircular shape and circular shape preferably corresponding to each other with at most +-1 mm tolerance.

[0155] Generally, the joint plates 3,4 of the equipment 10 are fixed or at least fixable against the opposite side structures 11,12 of the first beam 1 such that the first beam 1 is between the joint plates 3,4. The joint plates 3,4 of the equipment 10 are preferably fixed or at least fixable against the opposite side structures 11,12 of the first beam 1 with fastening members 75,76, in particular preferably with fastening members 75;76 extending through fastening holes 35;45 of the joint plates 3,4 and counterpart fastening holes 113;123 of the opposite side structures 11,12 of the first beam 1. The fixing by using fastening members facilitates forming the beams structure without the need for welding. The fastening members 75;76 are preferably screws. The screws are most preferably self-tapping screws, but alternatively they could be bolts or rivets or pins. Generally, each said planar side structure and / or said joint plate comprises a planar face. In the application, when it is referred to a direction perpendicular to a planar side structure or direction perpendicular to a joint plate, it is meant the direction perpendicular to the planar face of the planar side structure or the direction perpendicular to the planar face of the joint plate, respectively.

[0156] It is to be understood that the above description and the accompanying Figures are only intended to teach the best way known to the inventors to make and use the invention. It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the inventive concept can be implemented in various ways. The above- described embodiments of the invention may thus be modified or varied, without departing from the invention, as appreciated by those skilled in the art in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that the invention and its embodiments are not limited to the examples described above but may vary within the scope of the claims.

Claims

Claims1. An equipment (10;10') for fabricating a beam structure (100), such as a truss or a lattice girder, for example, which beam structure (100) comprises plurality of elongated beams (1,2,5) connected to each other, the equipment (10; 10') comprising at least a first elongated beam (1) having two planar side structures (11,12); and a second elongated beam (2) having two planar side structures (21,22), characterized in that the equipment (10; IO7) comprises a first and a second joint plate (3,4), which are fixed, or at least fixable, to and against the opposite side structures (11,12) of the first beam (1), in particular such that a mounting space (C) for accommodating an end of at least a second beam (2) is formed beside the first beam (1) between the first and a second joint plate (3,4), wherein each said joint plate (3,4) comprises a first fastening and positioning means (31,F1;41,F1), which comprise a first group of fastening holes (31;41), and a first positioning feature (Fl); and the second beam (2) comprises at an end thereof on a first and second planar side structures (21,22) thereof, which are in particular opposite side structures, a counterpart fastening and positioning means (211,F2;221,F2) for the first fastening and positioning means (31,F1;41,F1) of the first and second joint plate (3,4), respectively, wherein the counterpart fastening and positioning means (211,F2;221,F2) of each said planar side structure (21,22) comprises a group of counterpart fastening holes (211;221), and a counterpart positioning feature (F2); whereinthe first positioning feature (Fl) is a first positioning slot (32;42) having a bottom end (321;421), and the counterpart positioning feature (F2) is a positioning protrusion (212;222) or a protrusion member mounting hole (212h;222h) for receiving a protrusion member comprised in the equipment and mountable such that it forms a positioning protrusion (212,222) as defined; or vice versa and wherein the fastening holes (31) and the first positioning feature (Fl) of the first fastening and positioning means (31, Fl) of the first joint plate (3), preferably more specifically the fastening holes (31) and the bottom end (321) of the positioning slot (32), are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the first joint plate (3), as the counterpart fastening holes (211) and the counterpart positioning feature (F2) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (211,F2) of the first side structure (21), preferably more specifically the counterpart fastening holes (211) and the positioning protrusion (212) or protrusion member mounting hole (212h), as viewed in perpendicular direction to the first side structure (21); and the fastening holes (41) and the first positioning feature (Fl) of the first fastening and positioning means (41, Fl) of the second joint plate (4), preferably more specifically the fastening holes (41) and the bottom end (421) of the positioning slot (42), are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the second joint plate (4), as the counterpart fastening holes (221) and the counterpart positioning feature (F2) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (221, F2) of the second side structure (22), preferably more specifically the counterpart fastening holes (221) and the positioning protrusion (222) or protrusion member mounting hole(222h), as viewed in perpendicular direction to the second side structure (22).

2. An equipment (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the protrusion (212;222) of each side structure (21,22) of the second beam (2) is farther from an end face (2f) of the second beam (2) than one or more, preferably most, most preferably all, of the counterpart fastening holes (211;221) of the side structure (21,22) in question.

3. An equipment (10;109 according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second elongated beam (2) is placed or placeable in a mounting position between the joint plates (3,4) fixed against the opposite side structures (11,12) of the first beam (1), in particular by sliding it into and / or inside the mounting space (C), wherein in said mounting position the fastening holes (31;41) of the joint plates (3,4) are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes (211;221) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (221,222) of the side structures (21;22) of the second beam (2); and preferably moreover the positioning protrusions (212;222) are in the bottom ends (321,421) of the slots (32,42), in particular resting against the bottom faces of the bottom ends (321).

4. An equipment (10; 10') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the positioning slots (32;42), which are preferably those of the joint plates (3,4), are in cooperation with said positioning protrusions (212;222), which are preferably those of the second beam (2), arranged to position the second beam (2), when slided into and / or inside the mounting space (C), into a mounting position where the fastening holes (31:41) of the joint plates (3,4) and the corresponding counterpart fastening holes (211,221) of the second beam (2) are in alignment, thereby enabling fastening members(71,72), such as fastening screws, to be driven through the aligned fastening holes and counterpart fastening holes (31,211;41,221) for thereby rigidly connecting the joint plates (3,4) and the second beam (1,2) to each other.

5. An equipment (10; 10') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the joint plates (3,4) are fixed or at least fixable against the opposite side structures (11,12) of the first beam (1) such that they are parallel with each other, their opposing faces (3a, 4a) being in particular parallel and planar and defining between them the mounting space (C), wherein the width of the mounting space (C) corresponds to the thickness of the second beam (2) exactly or with at most +1 mm tolerance.

6. An equipment (10; IO7) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that each said bottom end (321;421) has a concave shaped bottom face, the positioning slot (32;42) being fitted to receive a portion of the protrusion (212;222), such as a pin portion thereof, such that the portion of the protrusion rests against the concave shaped bottom face of the bottom end (321;421) in question.

7. An equipment (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the equipment (10) comprising at least a third beam (5) having two planar side structures (51,52); wherein each said joint plate (3,4) comprises a second fastening and positioning means (33,34,43,44), which comprise a second group of fastening holes (33,43); and a second positioning slot (34;44) having a bottom end (341;441); andthe third beam (5) comprises at an end thereof on a first and second planar side structures (51,52) thereof, which are opposite side structures, a counterpart fastening and positioning means(511,512,521,522) for the second fastening and positioning means(33.34.43.44) of the first and second joint plate (3,4), respectively, wherein the counterpart fastening and positioning means(511.512.521.522) of each side structure (51,52) comprises a group of counterpart fastening holes (511;521), and a positioning protrusion (512,522) protruding from the side structure (51,52) in question or a protrusion member mounting hole (512h;522) for receiving a protrusion member comprised in the equipment and mountable such that it forms a positioning protrusion(512.522) as defined; wherein the fastening holes (33) and the bottom end (341) of the positioning slot (34) of the second fastening and positioning means (33,34) of the first joint plate (3) are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the joint plate, as the counterpart fastening holes (511) and the positioning protrusion (512) or protrusion member mounting hole (512h) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (511,512) of the first side structure (51), as viewed in perpendicular direction to the first side structure (51); and the fastening holes (43) and the bottom end (421) of the positioning slot (44) of the second fastening and positioning means(43.44) of the second joint plate (4) are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the joint plate, as the counterpart fastening holes (521) and the positioning protrusion (522) or protrusion member mounting hole (522h) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (521,522) of the second side structure(52), as viewed in perpendicular direction to the second side structure (52).

8. An equipment (10; IO7) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that each joint plate (3,4) comprises a third fastening and positioning means (35,36;45,46), which comprise a third group of fastening holes (35;45); and one or two third positioning slots (36;46) having a bottom end (361;461); and the first beam (1) comprises on a first and second planar side structures (11,12) thereof, which are opposite side structures, a counterpart fastening and positioning means (113,114;123,124) for the third fastening and positioning means (35,36,45,46) of the first and second joint plate (3,4), respectively, wherein the counterpart fastening and positioning means (113,114;123,124) of each side structure (11,12) comprises a group of counterpart fastening holes (113;123), and one or two positioning protrusions (114,124) protruding from the side structure (11,12) in question or a protrusion member mounting hole for receiving a protrusion member comprised in the equipment and mountable such that it forms a positioning protrusion (114,124) as defined; wherein the fastening holes (35) and the bottom ends (361) of the one or two positioning slots (36) of the third fastening and positioning means (35,36) of the first joint plate (3) are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the joint plate, as the fastening holes (113) and the one or two positioning protrusions (114) or protrusion member mounting holes (114h) of the counterpartfastening and positioning means (113,114) of the first side structure (11), as viewed in perpendicular direction to the first side structure (11); and the fastening holes (45) and the bottom ends (461) of the one or two positioning slots (46) of the third fastening and positioning means (45,46) of the second joint plate (4) are positioned relative to each other correspondingly, as viewed in perpendicular direction to the joint plate, as the fastening holes (123) and the one or two positioning protrusions (124) or protrusion member mounting holes (124h) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (123,124) of the second side structure (12), as viewed in perpendicular direction to the second side structure (12).

9. An equipment (10; IO7) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises fastening members (71) placed or placeable to extend through the fastening holes (31) of the first fastening and positioning means (31,32) of the first joint plate (3) and the counterpart fastening holes (211) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (211,212) of the first side structure (21) of the second beam (2); and fastening members (72) placed or placeable to extend through the fastening holes (41) of the first fastening and positioning means (41,42) of the second joint plate (4) and the counterpart fastening holes (221) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (221,222) of the second side structure (22) of the second beam (2).

10. An equipment (10; IO7) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that each said elongated beam (1,2,5) is a metal beam, most preferably a steel beam, and the edges of the fastening holes (211,221; 113,123; 511,521) of the second beam (2) and / or ofthe first beam (1) and / or of the third beam (5) have been softened, preferably by means of laser machining or heat treatment.

11. An equipment (10;109 according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that each said slot (32,34;42,44;36,46) of a joint plate (3,4) or of a planar side structure (21,22;51,52) extends through the joint plate (3,4) in question in thickness direction of the plate (3,4), or through the planar side structure (21,22;51,52) in question in thickness direction of the planar side structure (21,22;51,52), respectively, and the slot (32,34,42,44,36,46) is open in direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the joint plate (3,4) in question, or in direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the planar side structure (21,22;51,52) in question, respectively.

12. A beam structure (100), such as a truss or a lattice girder, for example, which beam structure (100) comprises plurality of elongated beams (1,2,5) connected to each other, the beam structure (100) comprising the equipment (10; 10') according to any of the preceding claims.

13. A beam structure (100) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises fastening members (71) extending through the fastening holes (31) of the first fastening and positioning means (31,32) of the first joint plate (3) and the counterpart fastening holes (211) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (211,212) of the first side structure (21) of the second beam (2); and fastening members (72) extending through the fastening holes (41) of the first fastening and positioning means (41,42) of the second joint plate (4) and the counterpart fastening holes (221) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (221,222) of the second side structure (22) of the second beam (2).

14. A beam structure (100) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises fastening members (73) extending through the fastening holes (33) of the second fastening and positioning means (33,34) of the first joint plate (3) and the fastening holes (511) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (511,512) of the first side structure (51) of the third beam (5); and fastening members (74) extending through the fastening holes (43) of the first fastening and positioning means (43,44) of the second joint plate (4) and the fastening holes (521) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (521,522) of the second side structure (52) of the third beam (5).

15. A beam structure (100) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second elongated beam (2) is placed in a mounting position between the joint plates (3,4) fixed against the opposite side structures (11,12) of the first beam (1), wherein in said mounting position the fastening holes (31;41) of the joint plates (3,4) are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes (211;221) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (221,222) of the side structures (21;22) of the second beam (2); and preferably moreover the positioning protrusions (212;222) are in the bottom ends (321,421) of the positioning slots (32,42), in particular resting against the bottom faces of the bottom ends (321).

16. A beam structure (100) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that in said mounting position the positioning protrusion (212) of the first side structure (21) is in the bottom end (321) of the slot (32) of the first joint plate (3), inparticular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end (321), or vice versa, and the positioning protrusion (222) of the second side structure (22) is in the bottom end (421) of the slot (42) of the second joint plate (4), in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end (421) or vice versa.

17. A beam structure (100) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the third elongated beam (5) is placed in a mounting position between the joint plates (3,4) fixed against the opposite side structures (11,12) of the first beam (1), wherein in said mounting position the fastening holes (33;43) of the joint plates (3,4) are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes (511;521) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (521,522) of the side structures (51;52) of the third beam (5); and preferably moreover the protrusion (512) of the first side structure (51) is in the bottom end (341) of the slot (34) of the first joint plate (3), in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end (341), and the protrusion (522) of the second side structure (52) is in the bottom end (441) of the slot (44) of the second joint plate (4), in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end (441).

18. Method for fabricating a beam structure (100), such as a truss or a lattice girder for example, which beam structure (100) comprises plurality of elongated beams (1,2,5) connected to each other, characterized in that the method comprises providing the equipment (10; IO7) as defined in any of the preceding claims; and placing the second elongated beam (2) in a mounting position between the joint plates (3,4) fixed against the opposite side structures(11,12) of the first beam (1), in particular by sliding it into and / or inside the mounting space (C), wherein in said mounting position the positioning protrusions (212;222) are in the bottom ends (321,421) of the slots (32,42), in particular resting against the bottom faces of the bottom ends (321), and the fastening holes (31;41) of the joint plates (3,4) are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes (211;221) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (221,222) of the side structures (21;22) of the second beam (2); and thereafter fastening the second elongated beam (2) to the joint plates (3,4) with fastening members (71,72) extending through the aligned fastening holes and counterpart fastening holes (31,211;41,221), in particular by driving fastening members (71) to extend through the fastening holes (31) of the first fastening and positioning means (31,32) of the first joint plate (3) and the counterpart fastening holes (211) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (211,212) of the first side structure (21), and by driving fastening members (72) to extend through the fastening holes (41) of the first fastening and positioning means (41,42) of the second joint plate (4) and the counterpart fastening holes (221) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (221,222) of the second side structure (22).

19. A method or an equipment (10; IO7) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that in said mounting position the positioning protrusion (212) of the first side structure (21) is in the bottom end (321) of the slot (32) of the first joint plate (3), in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end (321), or vice versa and the positioning protrusion (222) of the second side structure (22) is in the bottom end (421) of the slot (42) of the second joint plate (4),in particular resting against the bottom face of the bottom end (421), or vice versa.

20. A method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that in said sliding the second elongated beam (2) is moved such that the protrusion (212) of the first side structure (21) moves into the slot (32) of the first joint plate (3) and further in the slot (32) towards the bottom end (321) of the slot (32), in particular until it rests against the bottom face of the bottom end (321), and the protrusion (222) of the second side structure (22) moves into the slot (42) of the second joint plate (4) and further in the slot (42) towards the bottom end (421) of the slot (42), in particular until it rests against the bottom face of the bottom end (421).

21. A method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the method comprises fixing the joint plates (3,4) to the first beam (1) against the opposite side structures (11,12) thereof, the fixing of each joint plate (3;4) preferably although not necessarily comprising placing the joint plate in question (3;4) against a side structure (11; 12) such that the positioning protrusions (114,124) of the side structure (11;21) are in the bottom ends (361;461) of the slots (36;46) of the joint plate (3;4), in particular resting against the bottom faces of the bottom ends (361;461), and the fastening holes (35;45) of the joint plate (3;4) are aligned with the counterpart fastening holes (113;123) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (113,114,123,124) of the side structure (11; 12) of the first beam (1); and thereafter fastening the joint plate (3;4) to the first elongated beam (1) with fastening members (75,76) extending through the aligned fastening holes (113,35;123,45),in particular by driving fastening members (75;76) to extend through the fastening holes (35;45) of the third fastening and positioning means (35,36;45,46) of the joint plate (3;4) and the fastening holes (113;123) of the counterpart fastening and positioning means (113,114,123,124) of the side structure (11;21) of the first beam(1).

22. A beam structure (100) or a method or an equipment (10; 10') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fastening members (71;72;73;74;75;76) are screws or bolts or rivets or pins or nail gun nails, most preferably the fastening members (71;72;73;74;75;76) are self-tapping screws.

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