Self-aligning beam joint suited for use in modular construction

Abstract

An improved joinder method and system which allow either individual vertical columns or prefabricated module assemblies which incorporate a plurality of said vertical columns to be quickly and accurately lowered into position on top of one or more similarly configured underlying columns. In one preferred embodiment the uppermost ends of the underlying columns comprise a portion of a similar previously installed module located immediately below the particular module being lifted into place. The improved columnar joint of the present invention can be utilized to automatically guide the prefabricated modules into proper location onto the uppermost ends of the underlying columns such that when the lowermost ends of the vertical columns being installed come to rest upon the uppermost ends of the underlying columns, the opposed ends of the vertical columns are sufficiently aligned with one another that they will readily support the weight of the module without any risk of shifting when the lifting tension is relieved. Self-aligning column joints of the present invention are also utilized to rigidly and permanently secure the vertically aligned column or columns to one another without the need to maintain any tension in the lifting device used to elevate the module into position once the lifting tension has been relieved. The method of the present invention may be employed to install a multiplicity of identical modules one on top of the other or to install a multiplicity of adjacent modules all at a given level within a structure without the need to utilize double support columns immediately adjacent one another where the adjacent modules fit together.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.