U.S. patent application number 12/857889 was filed with the patent office on 2010-12-09 for modular building system.
Invention is credited to Mehrtosh Ghalebi, Mehdi Hatamian.
Application Number | 20100307090 12/857889 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40562054 |
Filed Date | 2010-12-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100307090 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hatamian; Mehdi ; et
al. |
December 9, 2010 |
MODULAR BUILDING SYSTEM
Abstract
There is provided a panel for use in the construction of a
structure. The panel includes a panel body defining a panel body
periphery. The panel body additionally includes a panel body front
surface and an opposing panel body back surface. A flange extends
along the panel body periphery. The panel further includes an
elongate rib having first and second rib walls and a rib channel.
The first and second ribs walls extend from and along the panel
body back surface. The rib channel is disposed between and along
the first and second ribs walls and extends toward the panel body
back surface. The rib channel defines a rib longitudinal axis
generally parallel to the adjacent panel body back surface. The
panel is cuttable along the rib channel to form a structural
element. A plurality of structural elements may be combined to form
the structure.
Inventors: |
Hatamian; Mehdi; (Coto De
Caza, CA) ; Ghalebi; Mehrtosh; (Rancho Santa
Margarita, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
STETINA BRUNDA GARRED & BRUCKER
75 ENTERPRISE, SUITE 250
ALISO VIEJO
CA
92656
US
|
Family ID: |
40562054 |
Appl. No.: |
12/857889 |
Filed: |
August 17, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11977026 |
Oct 23, 2007 |
|
|
|
12857889 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
52/309.4 ;
52/309.1; 52/479; 52/588.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04C 2/38 20130101; E04C
2/20 20130101; E04C 2/324 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
52/309.4 ;
52/479; 52/309.1; 52/588.1 |
International
Class: |
E04C 2/38 20060101
E04C002/38; E04C 2/20 20060101 E04C002/20 |
Claims
1. A panel for use in the construction of a structure, the
structure being formed of a plurality of structural elements, the
panel comprising: a panel body defining a panel body periphery, the
panel body including a panel body front surface and an opposing
panel body back surface; a flange extending along the panel body
periphery; and an elongate rib having first and second rib walls
and a rib channel, the first and second ribs walls extending from
and along the panel body back surface, the rib channel disposed
between and along the first and second ribs walls and extending
toward the panel body back surface, the rib channel defining a rib
longitudinal axis generally parallel to the adjacent panel body
back surface, the panel being cuttable along the rib channel to
form a respective one of the plurality of structural elements.
2. The panel as recited in claim 1, wherein the first rib wall
extends from the panel body back surface a first rib wall distance,
the second rib wall extends from the panel body back surface a
second rib wall distance, and the rib channel extends toward the
panel body back surface to define a rib channel depth.
3. The panel as recited in claim 2, wherein the first rib wall
distance, the second rib wall distance and the channel depth are
equal.
4. The panel as recited in claim 2 wherein the first rib wall
distance is equal to the second rib wall distance, and the rib
channel depth is less than the first and second rib wall
distances.
5. The panel as recited in claim 1, wherein the panel is formed of
structural foam.
6. The panel as recited in claim 5, wherein the structural foam
includes at least one polymer.
7. The panel as recited in claim 6, wherein the polymer is a
recycled polymer.
8. The panel as recited in claim 1, wherein the panel is formed of
a plastic material.
9. The panel as recited in claim 1 further comprises a plurality of
elongate ribs.
10. The panel as recited in claim 9, wherein at least two of the
plurality of elongate ribs intersect.
11. The panel as recited in claim 1 wherein the panel is
rectangular.
12. A panel assembly for use in the construction of a structure,
the panel assembly comprising: at least two panels, each of the at
least two panels comprising: a panel body defining a panel body
periphery, the panel body including a panel body front surface and
an opposing panel body back surface; a flange extending along the
panel body periphery; and an elongate rib having first and second
rib walls and a rib channel, the first and second ribs walls
extending from and along the panel body back surface, the rib
channel disposed between and along the first and second ribs walls
and extending toward the panel body back surface, the rib channel
defining a rib longitudinal axis generally parallel to the adjacent
panel body back surface, the panel being cuttable along the rib
channel to form a respective one of the plurality of structural
elements; and a connecting rail disposed between the at least two
panels, the connecting rail having a first connector channel and a
second connector channel, the first and second connector channels
each being configured to engage with the flange of a respective
panel.
13. The panel assembly as recited in claim 12 wherein each of the
at least two panels define a panel plane disposed parallel with
respect to each other.
14. The panel assembly as recited in claim 12 wherein each of the
at least two panel panels define a panel plane disposed angularly
with respect to each other.
15. The panel assembly as recited in claim 12 further comprising a
fastener configured to attach the flange of a respective panel to
the connecting rail.
16. The panel assembly as recited in claim 12, wherein each of the
at least two panels is formed of structural foam.
17. The panel assembly as recited in claim 16, wherein the
structural foam includes at least one polymer.
18. The panel assembly as recited in claim 17, wherein the polymer
is a recycled polymer.
19. The panel assembly as recited in claim 12, wherein each of the
at least two panels is formed of a plastic material.
20. The panel assembly as recited in claim 12, wherein each of the
at least two panels further comprises a plurality of elongate ribs.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/977,026 entitled MODULAR BUILDING SYSTEM
filed Oct. 23, 2007, all of the teachings of which are incorporated
herein by reference.
STATEMENT RE: FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT
[0002] (Not Applicable)
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] 1. Field of the Invention
[0004] The present invention relates generally to a modular
construction system and more particularly, to a modular panel
system including panels that are configurable to quickly construct
a low-cost and durable structure.
[0005] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0006] It is well known that the construction of a structure can be
a very time consuming and expensive endeavor. The planning and
design of the structure can be as long, if not longer than the
actual construction itself. As such, many construction projects can
take several months or years to complete. Such lengthy and costly
construction projects are common in relation to residential and
commercial construction.
[0007] Although the planning and cost associated with the
above-mentioned construction typically yields a structure
specifically tailored to the desires of the individual builder,
certain types of structures generally do not require the same
amount of planning and construction time. Rather, many structures
simply require four walls and a roof. Exemplary structures may
include storage facilities, warehouses, garages, patio enclosures,
and the like.
[0008] Furthermore, a long and costly construction project may not
be feasible in certain situations. Rather, a quickly constructed
temporary structure may be needed. For example, emergency medical
treatment facilities may be needed after a natural disaster, or in
battlefield environments. Additionally a temporary gathering of
large groups of people may also present a need for a temporary
structure.
[0009] Known structures that are commonly used under such
circumstances include tents, mobile structures, and the like. Tents
are very easily and quickly assembled, however, they offer very
minimal structural protection. Most tents are not rigid and thus,
may not offer a great deal protection from the elements (e.g.,
snow, sleet, hail, etc.). Mobile structures may offer more
structural support; however, they may be limited in their
adaptability to conform to the particular needs and desires of the
owner.
[0010] As is apparent from the foregoing, there exists a need in
the art for a modular system which may be used to quickly assemble
a rigid structure and is highly adaptable to construct a structure
according to the desired specifications of the owner. The present
invention address this particular need, as will be discussed in
more detail below.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention specifically addresses and alleviates
the above-identified deficiencies in the art. In accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a
multifunctional panel for use in the construction of a structure.
The panel includes a panel body defining a panel body periphery.
The panel body additionally includes a panel body front surface and
an opposing panel body back surface. A flange extends along the
panel body periphery. The panel further includes an elongate rib
having first and second rib walls and a rib channel. The first and
second ribs walls extend from and along the panel body back
surface. The rib channel is disposed between and along the first
and second ribs walls and extends toward the panel body back
surface. The rib channel defines a rib longitudinal axis that is
generally parallel to the adjacent panel body back surface. The
panel is cuttable along the rib channel to form a structural
element. A plurality of structural elements may be combined to form
the structure.
[0012] It is contemplated that a plurality of like panels may be
connected to quickly and economically construct a structure. In
this manner, respective ones of the plurality of panels may be cut
along the rib channel to form the various structural
characteristics of the resultant structure (e.g., window opening,
entryway, roof gable, etc.). The rib channels may provide a guide
along which the panels may be cut. The resultant structure may be
used as a temporary structure, or for low cost housing, patios,
garages, storage buildings, and the like.
[0013] According to various embodiments, the panel may include a
plurality of elongate ribs. The longitudinal axes of the plurality
of ribs may be parallel, or angularly positioned relative to each
other, thereby resulting in intersecting ribs. The panels may be
cut along one or multiple rib channels to form an individual
structural element.
[0014] Furthermore, the panel may be formed of a variety of
materials. The materials may include, but are not limited to,
structural foam or a plastic material. The structural foam may
include at least one recycled polymer, thereby providing a more
environmentally and economically friendly panel material.
[0015] The panels may be used in connection with a connecting rail.
The connecting rail may facilitate connection of one panel to
another. The connecting rail includes a first connector channel and
a second connector channel. The first and second connector channels
are each configured to engage with the flange of a respective
panel. A fastener may be used to attach the flange of a respective
panel to the connecting rail. The connecting rail may be configured
to engage with two panels, wherein each panel defines a panel plane
disposed parallel with respect to each other. Alternatively, the
connecting rail may be configured to engage with two panels,
wherein each panel defines a panel plane disposed angularly with
respect to each other.
[0016] The present invention is best understood by reference to the
following detailed description when read in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] These and other features and advantages of the various
embodiments disclosed herein will be better understood with respect
to the following description and drawings in which like numbers
refer to like parts throughout and in which:
[0018] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a panel configured for
use in the construction of a structure;
[0019] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the panel illustrated
in FIG. 1, the panel having a plurality of elongate ribs extending
from and along a panel body back surface, each rib including first
and second rib walls and a rib channel;
[0020] FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of an elongate rib,
wherein first and second rib wall distances are greater than a rib
channel depth;
[0021] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of an elongate rib,
wherein the first and second rib wall distances are equal to the
rib channel depth;
[0022] FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of an elongate rib,
wherein the first and second rib wall distances are less than the
rib channel depth;
[0023] FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the panel illustrated in
FIG. 1;
[0024] FIG. 5 is a side view of the panel illustrated in FIG.
4;
[0025] FIG. 6 is a rear elevation view of the panel illustrated in
FIG. 4;
[0026] FIG. 7 is a top view of the panel illustrated in FIG. 4;
[0027] FIG. 8 is an exploded top view a panel assembly including
two panels and a connecting rail, the connecting rail having first
and second connector channels;
[0028] FIG. 9 is a top view of the panels and connecting rail shown
in FIG. 8, wherein the panels are engaged with the first and second
connector channels, the panels defining planes disposed parallel
with respect to each other;
[0029] FIG. 10 is a top view of the panels and connecting rail
shown in FIG. 8, wherein the panels are engaged with the first and
second connector channels, the panels defining planes disposed
angularly with respect to each other;
[0030] FIG. 11 illustrates three panels, each having a plurality of
ribs, each panel being cuttable along the ribs to collectively form
a roof gable;
[0031] FIG. 12 illustrates two panels, each panel having a
plurality of ribs, each panel being cuttable along the ribs to form
a portion of a wall having an entryway and a window;
[0032] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a structure constructed
from a plurality of panels; and
[0033] FIG. 14 is a sectional view of a panel constructed from
structural foam.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0034] Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for
purposes of illustrating a preferred embodiment of the present
invention only, and not for purposes of limiting the same, FIG. 1
depicts a panel 10 constructed in accordance with the present
invention. It is contemplated that the panel 10 may be used in the
construction of a structure. More specifically, a plurality of
panels 10 may be used to construct the structure. Each panel 10
includes a panel body 12 defining a panel body periphery 14. The
panel 10 includes a flange 20 extending along the panel body
periphery 14. The panel body 12 includes a panel body front surface
16 and a panel body back surface 18. The panel body front surface
16 may be textured to simulate several different construction
surfaces. For instance, the front surface 16 may be textured to
simulate a stucco surface, a brick or stone surface, or other
textures known by those having skill in the art. In the particular
embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the panel body front surface 16
includes a smooth, flat surface.
[0035] FIG. 2 illustrates the panel body back surface 18. The panel
10 includes a plurality of elongate ribs 22 extending from the
panel body back surface 18. FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate a
cross-sectional views of a rib 22. The rib 22 includes a first rib
wall 21 and a second rib wall 23. A rib channel 25 is disposed
between and along the first and second rib walls 21, 23. The rib
channel 25 also extends toward the panel body back surface 18. The
rib channel 25 defines a rib longitudinal axis 27 generally
parallel to the adjacent panel body back surface 18.
[0036] The first rib wall 21 extends from the panel body back
surface 18 a first rib wall distance d.sub.1 and the second rib
wall 23 extends from the panel body back surface 18 a second rib
wall distance d.sub.2. The rib channel 25 extends toward the panel
body back surface 18 to define a rib channel depth d.sub.3.
According to various embodiments, the first rib wall distance
d.sub.1, the second rib wall distance d.sub.2, and the channel
depth d.sub.3, may vary. In the embodiments shown in FIG. 3A-3C,
the first and second rib wall distances d.sub.1, d.sub.2 are equal.
However, it is understood that the first rib wall distance d.sub.1
may differ from the second rib wall distance d.sub.2. FIG. 3A
illustrates a rib 22 wherein the rib channel depth d.sub.3, is less
than the first and second rib wall distances d.sub.1, d.sub.2,
thereby resulting in a relatively shallow rib channel 25. This may
enhance the structural rigidity of the panel 10, as there is more
support under the rib channel 25. However, it may be more difficult
to cut the panel 10 along the rib channel 25 if the rib channel 25
is relatively shallow. FIG. 3B depicts a rib 22 wherein the rib
channel depth d.sub.3 is equal to the first and second rib wall
distances d.sub.1, d.sub.2. It may be easier to cut the panel 10
shown in FIG. 3B, rather than the panel 10 depicted in FIG. 3A;
however, the panel 10 in FIG. 3B may not offer as much support as
the panel 10 in 3A. FIG. 3C shows a rib 22 wherein the rib channel
depth d.sub.3 is greater than the first and second rib wall
distances d.sub.1, d.sub.2, thereby resulting in a relatively deep
rib channel 25. This may facilitate the cutting of the panel 10;
however, as discussed above, it may result in a weaker panel
10.
[0037] The panel 10 may be cuttable along the rib channel 25 to
configure the panel 10 as required by the builder. In other words,
the panel 10 may be configured to define the structural
characteristics of the structure. For instance, the panels 10 may
be configured to define a window opening, entryway, skylight, or
roof gable, among other structural characteristics, as described in
more detail below. Although the panels 10 are cuttable along the
ribs 22, it may be desirable to use the entire panel 10 without
cutting it. An entire panel 10 may be used to form a portion of a
wall.
[0038] According to another embodiment, the panel 10 includes at
least one multi-channel rib 24. A multi-channel rib 24 is similar
to the rib 22 described above, however the multi-channel rib 24
includes more than one rib channel 25. The panels 10 depicted in
FIGS. 2 and 6 include three multi-channel ribs 24, each having two
rib channels 25. Such ribs 24 include first, second, and third
multi-channel rib walls. A primary channel is disposed between the
first and second multi-channel rib walls, and a secondary rib
channel is disposed between the second and third multi-channel rib
walls. The panel 10 may be cut along a rib 22 having a single rib
channel 25 or along a multi-channel rib 24 having primary or
secondary rib channels. Multi-channel ribs 24 may provide
additional structural support to the panel 10, as there is at least
one additional rib wall. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 and 6,
multi-channel ribs 24 are disposed along the longitudinal edges of
the panel body 10, as well as along the longitudinal centerline of
the panel body 10. However, such ribs 24 may be disposed anywhere
on the panel body 10.
[0039] Another implementation of the invention includes a boarder
member 26 extending from and along the panel body back surface 18.
The boarder member 26 and ribs 22, 24 extend from the panel 10 in
like manner; however, the boarder member 26 does not include a rib
channel. It may be desirable to position the boarder member 26
along the panel body periphery 14 to form a boarder thereabout. As
shown in FIGS. 2 and 6, the boarder member 26 and multi-channel
ribs 24 collectively form a boarder around the panel body periphery
14. However, it is understood that the boarder member 26 may be
located anywhere along the panel body back surface 18.
[0040] FIGS. 4-7 best illustrate the flange 20 extending from the
panel body periphery 14. As shown, the flange 20 extends around the
entire panel body periphery 14, although various embodiments may
include a flange 20 that only extends from a portion of the panel
body periphery 14. For instance, the flange 20 may only extend
along lateral edges of the panel 10 or longitudinal edges of the
panel 10. The flange 20 extends from the panel body periphery 14 a
flange distance "F." The flange distance F may be uniform, as
illustrated in FIGS. 4-7, or the panel 10 may include a flange 20
defining a variable flange distance F.
[0041] The panels 10 may be configured in a variety of different
shapes and sizes. Although the panels 10 shown in the drawings are
rectangular in shape, it is contemplated that the panels 10 may be
configured to be any shape. Furthermore, various embodiments of the
present invention include panels 10 that vary in size; although one
particular embodiment includes panels 10 that are
3'.times.9'.times.4''.
[0042] It is contemplated that the panels 10 may be constructed
from a variety of different materials. One aspect of the invention
includes fabricating the panels 10 from molded structural foam.
Consequently, the panel 10 is molded within a mold cavity. A
polymer resin is injected at low pressure and slow speed to create
a structural foam that fills within the mold cavity. With respect
to the polymer resin, it is contemplated that any of a wide variety
of polymers may be chosen, as well as combinations thereof, to thus
impart desired features to the panel 10. In this regard, by
selecting polymers having known characteristics, the panel 10 may
be formed to have a desired impact resistance, resistance to
temperature extremes, desired strength/tension properties,
resistance to various types of chemicals, as well as desired
aesthetic features, such as color, shape and the like. Exemplary of
the types of polymers suitable for use in the structural foam
molding process include commercially available polyolefins such as
polypropylene and polyethylene, including high density polyethylene
(HDPE) and low density polyethylene (LDPE). Such polymers may
possess the characteristic of having a melt flow index within the
range of ML 30-70. By virtue of utilizing such polymers, it is
contemplated that the panel 10 may be fabricated from recycled
materials, as will be readily understood by those skilled in the
art. Indeed, any component of the panel 10 fabricated from the
structural foam molding process will itself be recyclable to thus
enable the panel 10 to not only be formed from recycled materials,
but be recyclable themselves. Still further, by virtue of being
fabricated from a specific type of polymer material, the panel 10
will likely never require painting and any color will be inherent
through the polymer material.
[0043] With respect to the parameters under which the structural
foam molding processed is achieved, it is contemplated that the
polymer resin will be injected into the mold cavity at a pressure
of around 3000 to 1800 PSI at a rate of 30 kilograms per second.
According to a particular embodiment, the polymer will be injected
at a pressure of approximately 2000 PSI at a speed from 30
kilograms per second to 50 kilograms per second. Forming the panel
10 from structural foam according to the aforementioned process
results in very little built-in stress and virtual freedom from
environmental stress, cracking, and not to mention greatly improved
tolerance to age, environmental factors, rough usage and general
wear.
[0044] By virtue of using the structural foam molding process,
panels 10 may be formed that are larger and sturdier than like
components fabricated from wood, metal, concrete and fiberglass.
Panels 10 constructed from structural foam may include a cellular
foamed core 28 surrounded by a rigid outer skin 30, as best
illustrated in FIG. 14. Moreover, the panels 10 formed from the
structural foam molding process are substantially more sound
structurally, nearly stress-free, can be formed to be thicker,
sturdier and possess substantially minimal warpage compared to
prior art materials.
[0045] Although the foregoing describes fabricating the panels 10
with structural foam, it is understood that other materials known
by those having skill in the art may also be used without departing
from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
[0046] It is contemplated that a plurality of panels 10 may be
combined to form a structure. According to one embodiment, the
panels 10 are connected via a connecting rail 34. FIGS. 8-10 show
various embodiments of a panel assembly 32 including two panels 10
and a connecting rail 34. The connecting rail 34 includes a first
connector channel 36 and a second connector channel 38. The first
and second connector channels 36, 38 are each configured to engage
with the flange 20 of a respective panel 10. According to one
embodiment, the panels 10 engage with the connecting rail 34 such
that a portion of the panel body 12 is abutting a contact surface
31 of the connection rail 34.
[0047] Each panel 10 defines a panel plane. The connecting rail 34
may be configured to engage with panels 10 defining panel planes
that are parallel to each other. The connecting rail 34 may also be
configured to engage with panels 10 defining planes that are
angularly disposed with respect to each other. In the embodiment
shown in FIGS. 8-9, the first and second channels 36, 38 are
configured to engage with panels 10 defining panel planes that
parallel to each other. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 10, the
connecting rail 34 is configured to engage with panels 10 defining
panel planes that are angularly disposed relative to each other.
Furthermore, the panels 10 may be secured to the connecting rail 10
via a fastener 40. The fastener 40 may include a screw, rivet, or
other fastener known by those skilled in the art.
[0048] The panels 10 may be cut along the ribs 22 to form the
various structural characteristics of the structure. For instance,
the panels 10 may be cut to form an entryway, window opening,
angled roof gable, and the like. FIG. 11 illustrates a roof gable
42 constructed from a plurality of panels 10. Three panels 10 are
illustrated in FIG. 11. Each panel 10 is cut along a cut-line to
collectively form the roof gable 42. One panel 10 is cut to form a
crest 50 of the roof gable 42, and two additional panels 10 are cut
to form the sloping side 52 of the roof gable 42. More
specifically, one panel 10 is cut along a first cut-line 48 to form
the crest 50 of the roof gable 42. The panel 10 is cut along the
first cut-line 48 to define a first gable portion 50 and a first
remainder portion 52. Another panel 10 is cut along a second
cut-line 54 to define a second gable portion 56 and a second
remainder portion 58. The second cut-line 54 defines a slope that
compliments the slope of the first cut-line 48. In this regard, the
slope of the second cut-line 54 may be identical to the slope of
the first cut line 48. An additional panel 10 is cut along a third
cut-line 60, which defines a third gable portion 62 and a third
remainder portion 64. The slope of the third cut-line 60 may be
identical to the slope of the first and second cut-lines 48, 54.
The first, second and third gable portions 50, 56, 62 are used to
construct a portion of the roof gable 42. The first, second and
third remainder portions 52, 58, 64 may be used to construct other
areas of the structure. Although not shown, additional panels 10
would be cut along similar cut-lines to form the other sloping side
52 of the roof gable 42.
[0049] Referring now to FIG. 12, there is shown a wall 54
constructed from five panels 10. Two of the five panels 10 are cut
along rib channels 22 to form an entryway 68 and a window opening
74 within the wall 66. One panel 10 is cut along an entryway
cut-line 67 to define a door portion 70 and an overhead portion 72.
The overhead portion 72 is placed over the entryway 68. The door
portion 70 may be left out of the entryway 68, or, it may be
hingedly connected to the connecting rail 34 to form a door within
the entryway 68.
[0050] Another panel 10 is cut to define a window opening 74 within
the wall 66. The panel 10 is cut along a lower window cut-line 78
and an upper window cut-line 80 to define a lower window portion
76, an upper window portion 82, and a window remainder portion 84.
The upper window portion 82 is placed over the window opening 84
and the lower window portion 76 is placed under the window opening
74. The window remainder portion 84 may be used to form other
portions of the structure.
[0051] Although the above relates to using the panels 10 to form
walls, roof gables 42, entryways 68 and window openings 74, it is
understood that the panels 10 may be used to form other structural
characteristics known by those skilled in the art. For instance,
the panels may also be used to form a skylight within a panel 10
used to construct a portion of the roof.
[0052] Referring now to FIG. 13, there is shown a structure 86
constructed from a plurality of panels 10. The structure 86
includes two roof peaks 88, each having two roof gables 42, an
entryway 68 with a door 70, and a plurality of window openings. The
structure 86 includes both vertical and horizontal window openings
90, 92. In the particular embodiment shown in FIG. 13, the vertical
window opening 90 may be formed from one panel 10. In other words,
one panel 10 may be cut along upper and lower window cut-lines 80,
78 to form the vertical window 90. Conversely, the horizontal
window openings 92 span across multiple panels 10. Therefore, at
least two panels 10 may be similarly cut to form a horizontal
window opening 92.
[0053] The panels 10 may be quickly and easily connected via
connecting rails 34 to form the structure 86, as desired by the
builder. The size of the structure 86 may easily be expanded or
reduced by adding or removing panels 10. The structure 86 may be
used as an emergency trauma center in the case of a natural
disaster, or to treat the wounded as the return from the
battlefield. The structure 86 may alternatively be used as a
storage facility or a car port. In addition, a builder may use the
panels 10 to construct a structure 86 for entertainment purposes,
such as a patio enclosure. Furthermore, the panels 10 may be used
to construct temporary structures, such as temporary classrooms,
and the like. In this regard, the panels 10 may be used to quickly
and efficiently construct a wide range of structures 86.
[0054] The above description is given by way of example, and not
limitation. Given the above disclosure, one skilled in the art
could devise variations that are within the scope and spirit of the
invention disclosed herein. Further, the various features of the
embodiments disclosed herein can be used alone, or in varying
combinations with each other and are not intended to be limited to
the specific combination described herein. Thus, the scope of the
claims is not to be limited by the illustrated embodiments.
* * * * *