WO2009073914A1

WO2009073914A1 - A structure and components therefor

Info

Publication number: WO2009073914A1
Application number: PCT/AU2008/001801
Authority: WO
Inventors: Aydin Ongan
Original assignee: Aydin Ongan
Priority date: 2007-12-13
Filing date: 2008-12-08
Publication date: 2009-06-18

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a structure (or frame construction system) and components therefor, including elongate frame members, compound elongate beams, I-beams, elongate connectors, intersection connectors, elongate cladding support members, compound elongate cladding support beams, pole sleeves, and blanks and structural subassemblies of these components. In one particular aspect it provides an elongate frame member and elongate connectors for a frame construction system.

Description

A STRUCTURE AND COMPONENTS THEREFOR

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to structures and components of structures.

The invention has been developed primarily for use in the construction industry and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.

Background of the Invention

The use of steel frames in the residential and commercial construction industry in Australia, the United States and other countries represents a quickly growing segment of the industry at the present time.

Steel framing has several advantages over traditional timber framing and concrete frames. Steel frames are stronger per unit weight that concrete and more durable than wood by virtue of the material characteristics and properties of steel. This allows steel studs, joists and trusses to be made lighter and/or to achieve greater spans to create larger spaces or rooms within a building. Steel studs also generally have a greater uniformity of material, can be formed very straight, are dimensionally stable as steel does not shrink, rot or warp, and are capable of forming very square corners, which helps prevent nail pops and drywall cracks from occurring.

Unlike traditional timber, steel frames are not combustible in the event of a fire and are not susceptible to termites and mould. In some cases, steel framed buildings can be designed to withstand higher wind and seismic loads, due to the higher ductility and strength of steel.

Many other advantages have been cited, including the requirement of less energy to heat than a traditional timber frame, environmental benefits from reduced logging, steel being an abundant and recyclable resource and less material waste as the steel is precut to size, which also results in cleaner jobsites.

One of the major setbacks to larger market segment growth of steel framing is the relative difficulty of installation. Installation of steel frames is typically accomplished by means of self- tapping screws, welding and cringing methods. These methods are relatively time and energy consuming and require skilled labour and specialised tools. The use of fasteners is also relatively costly. According to an industry source, the cost ratio of fastener to labour is 15% to 85%. The present invention seeks to provide a structure (or frame construction system) and components therefor, including elongate frame members, compound elongate beams, I- beams, elongate connectors, intersection connectors, elongate cladding support members, compound elongate cladding support beams, pole sleeves, and blanks and structural subassemblies of these components which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative. It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention, an elongate frame member for a frame construction system is provided, comprising:

- a channel having a floor, two side walls extending upwardly from opposing edges of the floor, and two flanges extending inwardly from top edges of the respective side walls, and a plurality of spaced embossments located on the floor.

Advantageously, the frame construction system enables a structure such as a building to be modularly assembled from a combination of pre-formed constituent pieces, including the elongate frame member.

Advantageously, the channel is adapted to mechanically engage with connectors such that a structure formed using the frame construction system may be held together securely with fewer fasteners.

Advantageously, the embossments engage with corresponding embossments on the connectors such that sliding of a connector relative to the respective elongate frame member is substantially stopped. Furthermore, the embossments may be used as markings to pre- indicate distances and dimensions without the use of other measurement tools.

Advantageously, the combination of the embossments and the flange and lip arrangement reduces the need for fasteners, which may potentially significantly reduce costs. Fasteners often also require the puncture of apertures, which damages the galvanised coatings of materials such as steel. Hence, the fewer fasteners required, the less the damage to the coating of the material. Advantageously, the embossments enhance the load carrying capacity of the elongate frame member.

Preferably, the cross-sectional shape of the channel is generally C-shaped. Preferably, the two flanges extend substantially perpendicularly to the respective side walls.

Preferably, each of the flanges comprises a lip along its free edge.

Preferably, each lip is configured to lie adjacent to an undersurface of the respective flange.

Preferably, each side wall and its respective flange and lip form an elongate overhanging recess.

Advantageously, the arrangement of the flange and the lip allows connectors with corresponding arrangements to more securely engage with the elongate frame member.

Preferably, the elongate frame member is made substantially of steel. Preferably, the elongate frame member is made substantially of cold formed steel. Advantageously, the elongate frame members can form part of a steel framework.

According to a second aspect of the invention, a compound elongate beam is provided, comprising:

- a first and a second elongate frame member, each elongate frame member having the same dimensions, - wherein the undersurfaces of the floors of the first and second elongate frame members are attached to each other such that the channels are superposed, and

- such that the cross-section of the compound elongate beam is generally l-shaped.

Advantageously, a beam may be assembled from two preformed elongate frame members to perform another function in the construction of a structure. For example, a compound elongate beam may be used as an I-beam. In another example, a compound elongate beam may be assembled that may be connected to other beams or members by connectors on either or both sides.

Preferably, the compound elongate beam further comprises:

- a third elongate frame member, - wherein the undersurface of the floor of the third elongate frame member is attached to outside surfaces of adjacent first side walls of the first and second elongate frame members, such that the channels of the elongate frame members are longitudinally aligned.

Advantageously, a beam may be assembled from three preformed elongate frame members to perform another function in the construction of a structure. For example, a beam may be assembled that may be connected to other beams or members by connectors on any one or more of three sides. In another example, portions of cladding may be received by the first and second elongate frame members such that the cladding is arranged on a structure and connectors may be engaged with the third elongate frame member to connect the compound elongate beam to other beams or members. Preferably, the compound elongate beam further comprises:

- a fourth elongate frame member,

- wherein the undersurface of the floor of the fourth elongate frame member is attached to outside surfaces of adjacent second side walls of the first and second elongate frame members, such that the channels of the elongate frame members are longitudinally aligned.

Advantageously, a beam may be assembled from four preformed elongate frame members to perform another function in the construction of a structure. For example, a beam may be assembled that may be connected to other beams or members by connectors on any one or more of four sides. In another example, portions of cladding may be received by the first and second elongate frame members such that the cladding is arranged on a structure and connectors may be engaged with the third and fourth elongate frame members to connect the compound elongate beam to other beams or members.

Preferably, the compound elongate beam is made substantially of steel. Preferably, the compound elongate beam is made substantially of cold formed steel. Advantageously, any of the above compound elongate beams is stronger and more rigid than a single elongate frame member.

Advantageously, any of the above compound elongate beams is a modular assembly of elongate frame members, and thus does not require separate manufacture. Furthermore, attachments or connectors designed to mechanically engage with the basic elongate frame members will also correspondingly engage with compound elongate beams comprising elongate frame members of the same dimensions.

According to a third aspect of the invention, an I-beam is provided comprising:

- an S-shaped cross-section beam component having a floor, a first wall extending from a first side edge of the floor in a first direction substantially perpendicular to the floor and a second wall extending from a second side edge of the floor in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the floor and substantially opposite to the first direction, the first wall having a first flange extending from its free edge in a direction substantially parallel to the floor and towards the second side edge, the second wall having a second flange extending from its free edge in a direction substantially parallel to the floor and towards the first side edge, the floor comprising at least one engagement portion; and

- a first and a second elongate cap, each elongate cap having two elongate flanges extending from opposing side edges,

- the arrangement being such that the first elongate cap is attached to a outer surface of the first wall of the S-shaped cross-section beam component and the second elongate cap is attached to a outer surface of the second wall of the S-shaped cross-section beam component and the flanges of the first and second elongate caps extending inwardly such that the first and second elongate caps are superposed.

Advantageously, the I-beam has versatile application and many well known advantages including strength in the construction of structures. For example, an I-beam may be assembled that may be connected to other beams or members by connectors on either or both sides. Preferably, the I-beam is made substantially of steel.

Preferably, the I-beam is made substantially of cold formed steel. Advantageously, the I-beam can form part of a steel framework.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, an elongate connector for a frame construction system is provided comprising: - at least one bridge portion having a floor;

- at least two connection portions, one connection portion being located at either end of each bridge portion and in end-to-end relation with the bridge portion, each connection portion having a floor and two side walls extending upwardly from opposing side edges of the floor; and - a plurality of spaced embossments located on the floor of the or each of the bridge portions and each of the connection portions;

- the arrangement being such that each connection portion is adapted to mechanically engage with an elongate frame member.

Advantageously, the elongate connector may be used to connect other corresponding members and thus form a structure. Advantageously, the elongate connector may take different configurations and dimensions as is suitable for a particular application or joint. Advantageously, the spaced embossments of the connector correspond to the spaced embossments on the elongate frame member and engagement of the embossments in use substantially prevents the connector from sliding within the channel of the elongate frame member. Advantageously, the embossments enhance the load carrying capacity of the I- beam.

Preferably, each bridge portion has two lips located on respective opposing side edges of the floor, the lips being adapted to increase the longitudinal stiffness of the bridge portion.

Preferably, the lips are integral with the bridge portion.

Advantageously, this increases strength and rigidity such that each bridge portion is less likely to break, buckle or bend under applied loads.

Preferably, the elongate connector has a generally C-shaped cross-section, such that the two side walls are more widely spaced apart at their top ends than at their bottom ends.

Advantageously, the elongate connector is adapted to mechanically engage with a channel of an elongate frame member, and the wider spacing at the top ends of the side walls allows the connection portion to be more securely nested and wedged within the channel.

Preferably, each connection portion further comprises a wall lip located at the top end of the each side wall.

Preferably, each wall lip is configured to lie adjacent to an inner surface of the respective side wall. Preferably, the elongate connector further comprises a plurality of apertures located between one or more pairs of adjacent spaced embossments.

Advantageously, the apertures accommodate the use of fasteners wherever required, for example to further fix the elongate connector to the elongate frame member.

Preferably, at least one of the connection portions is connected to at least one of the bridge portions at an angle other than 180 degrees.

Advantageously, this enables elongate frame members to be connected to other elongate frame members at an angle, increasing the range of uses of the frame structure. For example, the elongate frame members may be used to create roof trusses.

Preferably, the side walls of each connection portion of the elongate connector are adapted to fit between the side walls of the channel of the elongate frame member and the top ends of the side walls are adapted to snap-fit into respective elongate overhanging recesses of the elongate frame member. Advantageously, the side walls of the connector impose outwardly directed forces on the side walls of the channel of the elongate frame member and thus the connector is tightly lodged within the channel, substantially restricting movement relative to the channel. Furthermore, the top edges of the side walls of the connector fit and are substantially locked into respective elongate overhanging recesses such that the connector is substantially stopped from being displaced upwardly out of the channel of the elongate frame member.

Preferably, at least one of the spaced embossments of the elongate connector is adapted to engage with at least one of the spaced embossments of the elongate frame member to substantially prevent the elongate connector from sliding within the channel of the elongate frame member in a longitudinal direction.

Preferably, the at least one bridge portion is a first and second bridge portion and the at least two connection portions are a first end connection portion, a second end connection portion and an intermediate connection portion, the first end connection portion and the first bridge portion forming a first arm, the second end connection portion and the second bridge portion forming a second arm, such that the first and second arms extend at an angle from opposite ends of the intermediate connection portion.

Advantageously, three elongate frame members may be connected together in different orientations for different functions, for example to form roof trusses.

Preferably, the elongate connector is made substantially of steel. Preferably, the elongate connector is made substantially of cold formed steel. Advantageously, the elongate connectors can form part of a steel framework.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a subassembly of a frame construction system is provided, comprising:

- a first and a second elongate frame member, and an elongate connector, - wherein the at least one bridge portion of the elongate connector is one bridge portion and the at least two connection portions of the elongate connector are two connection portions,

- wherein the first elongate frame member is mechanically engaged with the first connection portion and the second elongate frame member is mechanically engaged with the second connection portion.

Preferably, a first end of each side wall of the second elongate frame member abuts a top end of the respective side wall of the first elongate frame member. Preferably, a first end of each side wall of the second elongate frame member is angled and abuts a top end of the respective side wall of the first elongate frame member.

Advantageously, a stronger junction may be provided, in which the members of the subassembly are orientated at different angles. According to a sixth aspect of the invention, a subassembly of a frame construction system is provided, comprising:

- a first, second and third elongate frame member and an elongate connector,

- wherein the first elongate frame member is mechanically engaged with the first end connection portion, - the second elongate frame member is mechanically engaged with the second end connection portion, and

- the third elongate frame member is mechanically engaged with the intermediate connection portion,

- such that a first end of each side wall of each of the first and second elongate frame members abuts a top end of a respective side wall of the third elongate frame member.

Advantageously, the subassembly facilitates the junction of three members with the use of only one elongate connector.

Preferably, a first end of each side wall of at least one of the first and second elongate frame members is angled, such that each of the angled ends abuts and is flush with a top end of a respective side wall of the third elongate frame member.

Advantageously, a stronger junction may be provided, in which the members of the subassembly are orientated at different angles.

According to a seventh aspect of the invention, an intersection connector is provided, comprising: - a first and second connection portion, each connection portion having a floor and two side walls, the side walls of the first connection portion extending substantially upwardly from opposing side edges of the floor and the side walls of the second connection portion extending substantially downwardly from opposing side edges of the floor, - a bridge portion adapted to fix the second connection portion in spaced, perpendicular and elevated relation to the first connection portion, and - at least one engagement portion located on the floor of each of the connection portions,

- wherein each of the first and second connection portions are adapted to mechanically engage with an elongate frame member. Advantageously, the intersection connector allows two elongate frame members to be connected in perpendicular relation.

Preferably, the bridge portion comprises a first bridge section and a second bridge section, a bottom end of the first bridge section being perpendicularly connected to an end of the floor of the first connection portion, a side of the first bridge section being perpendicularly connected to a side of the second bridge section, and a top end of the second bridge section being perpendicularly connected to an end of the floor of the second connection portion.

Preferably, each bridge section has lips located on its free edges to increase the rigidity of the bridge sections.

Advantageously, this increases strength and rigidity of the bridge portion such that the bridge portion is less likely to break, buckle or bend under applied loads.

Preferably, the cross-sectional shape of each connection portion is generally C-shaped, such that the two side walls are more widely spaced apart at their top ends than at their bottom ends.

Advantageously, the connection portion is adapted to mechanically engage with a channel of an elongate frame member, and the wider spacing at the top ends of the side walls allows the connection portion to be more securely nested and wedged within the channel.

Preferably, each connection portion further comprises a lip located at the free end of each side walk

Preferably, each lip is configured to lie adjacent to an inner surface of the respective side wall.

Preferably, the at least one engagement portion is a plurality of spaced embossments. Advantageously, the spaced embossments of the intersection connector correspond to the spaced embossments of the elongate frame member and engagement of the embossments in use substantially prevents the intersection connector from sliding within the channel of the elongate frame member.

Advantageously, the embossments enhance the load carrying capacity of the intersection connector. Preferably, the intersection connector further comprises a plurality of apertures located between one or more adjacent engagement portions.

Advantageously, the apertures accommodate the use of fasteners wherever required.

Preferably, the intersection connector is adapted to mechanically engage with an elongate frame member.

Preferably, the side walls of each connection portion of the intersection connector are adapted to fit between the side walls of the channel of the elongate frame member and the free ends of the side walls are adapted to snap-fit into respective elongate overhanging recesses of the elongate frame member. Advantageously, the side walls of the each connection portion of the intersection connector impose outwardly directed forces on the side walls of the channel of the elongate frame member and thus tightly lodges the connection portion within the channel. This substantially restricts movement of the connection portion relative to the channel. Furthermore, the top edges of the side walls of each connection portion of the intersection connector fit and are substantially locked into respective elongate overhanging recesses such that the connection portion is substantially stopped from being displaced upwardly out of the channel of the elongate frame member.

Preferably, at least one of the engagement portions of the intersection connector is adapted to engage with at least one of the engagement portions of the elongate frame member to substantially prevent the intersection connector from sliding within the channel of the elongate frame member in a longitudinal direction.

Preferably, the intersection connector is made substantially of steel. Preferably, the intersection connector is made substantially of cold formed steel. Advantageously, the intersection connectors can form part of a steel framework. According to an eighth aspect of the invention, an elongate cladding support member is provided, comprising:

- a base, a wall and a flange,

- the wall extending substantially perpendicularly upwardly from the base, the flange extending perpendicularly outwardly from a top edge of the wall and the base having at least one side portion extending outwardly in the same direction as the flange, - such that the arrangement of the side portion of the base, the flange and the wall forms a slot having a substantially C-shaped cross-section, the slot being adapted to receive an edge of a piece of cladding.

Advantageously, the slot allows an edge of a piece of cladding to be securely engaged, and thus pairs of elongate cladding support members can securely support a piece of cladding between them.

Preferably, the base has an open loop rectangular cross-section and the wall extends upwardly from a free edge of the loop.

Advantageously, the elongate cladding support member may be formed from a folded blank. Preferably, the elongate cladding support member further comprises a lip extending substantially perpendicularly downwardly from a free edge of the flange.

Advantageously, the lip substantially prevents a received edge of cladding from slipping as the lip presses into a top surface of the cladding.

Preferably, the wall comprises a plurality of apertures. Advantageously, the apertures accommodate the use of fasteners wherever required, for example to secure cladding to a side of the wall that has no slot, or to more securely engage cladding within the slot.

Preferably the wall extends upwardly from substantially a longitudinal midline of the base.

Advantageously, despite only one side of the wall comprising a slot for receiving cladding, an edge of a piece of cladding may still be rested on the portion of the base protruding from the slot-free side of the wall and affixed to the wall of the elongate cladding support. Thus the elongate cladding support member is able to support cladding on either or both sides of the wall.

Preferably, the base has a base floor extending perpendicularly outward from a bottom edge of the wall in the same direction as the flange, a base wall extending perpendicularly upward from an outer edge of the base floor, and a suspension wall extending perpendicularly inwardly from a top edge of the base wall, such that the suspension wall, the wall and the flange define the slot.

Advantageously, one side of the wall comprises a slot and the other side is substantially a flat surface. The flat surface may abut and/or be attached to other flat surfaces in use.

Preferably, the elongate cladding support member is made substantially of steel. Preferably, the elongate cladding support member is made substantially of cold formed steel. Advantageously, the elongate cladding support member can form part of a steel framework.

According to an eighth aspect of the invention, a compound elongate cladding support beam is provided, comprising two elongate cladding support members, joined wall-to-wall in mirroring relation. Advantageously, a beam is assembled from preformed elongate cladding support members having two slots, one on either side of the wall, for receiving cladding securely on either or both sides. A compound elongate cladding support beam may be used as an intermediate flooring member, supporting floor cladding between itself and adjacent compound elongate cladding support beams or adjacent elongate cladding support members. Preferably, the compound elongate cladding support beam is made substantially of steel.

Preferably, the compound elongate cladding support beam is made substantially of cold formed steel.

According to a ninth aspect of the invention, a pole sleeve for connecting a member to a pole is provided, comprising: - a hollow body adapted to receive a pole, the hollow body comprising at least one pole attachment portion adapted to substantially stop the pole sleeve from sliding relative to the pole, and

- at least one flange extending outwardly from the body, the or each flange having at least one member attachment portion. Advantageously, the pole sleeve allows members to be connected to a pole and thus to be supported by one or more poles. For example, an elongate cladding support member or a compound elongate cladding support beam may be supported or suspended substantially horizontally between two poles by attachment of each end of the elongate cladding support member or compound elongate cladding support beam to a flange of the respective pole sleeve.

Preferably, the or each member attachment portion is an aperture through the at least one flange.

Preferably, the or each pole attachment portion is a plurality of apertures.

Advantageously, apertures facilitate the use of fasteners to attach members to the pole sleeve flange.

Preferably, the hollow body has a rectangular cross-section.

Advantageously, the pole sleeve is adapted to receive poles with rectangular cross-sections. Preferably, the hollow body has a circular cross-section.

Advantageously, the pole sleeve is adapted to receive poles with circular cross-sections.

Preferably, the at least one flange is a pair of side flanges located such that they lie adjacent to respective lateral sides of the member in use, and a lower flange located such that it lies adjacent to an underside of the member in use.

Preferably, the pole sleeve is made substantially of steel. Preferably, the pole sleeve is made substantially of cold formed steel. Advantageously, the pole sleeve can form part of a steel framework.

According to a tenth aspect of the invention, a structure is provided, comprising two or more elongate frame members and one or more elongate connectors, wherein one of the one or more elongate connectors connects at least two of the two or more elongate frame members.

Preferably, the structure further comprises one or more compound elongate beams, spaced apart such that the channels receive opposing portions of a cladding member in use.

Preferably, the structure further comprises one or more elongate I-beams, located such that the or each I-beam is engaged with a portion of at least one cladding member in use.

Preferably, the structure further comprises one or more subassemblies. Preferably, the structure further comprises one or more intersection connectors.

Preferably, the structure further comprises one or more elongate cladding support members, located at a floor section such that the or each elongate cladding support member receives an edge of at least one floor cladding member in use.

Preferably, the structure further comprises comprising one or more compound elongate cladding support beams, located at a floor section such that the or each elongate cladding support member receives an edge of at least two floor cladding member in use.

Preferably, the one or more elongate cladding support members and the one or more compound elongate cladding support beams are arranged and spaced apart such that they support at least one piece of floor cladding.

Preferably, the structure further comprises one or more pole sleeves, located such that the or each pole sleeve connects an elongate cladding support member and/or a compound elongate cladding support member, to at least one support pole. Advantageously, the structure is readily assembled from elements (e.g. members, connectors etc.) previously described. The elements may be prefabricated, and thus the assembly of the structure is potentially less labour-intensive and more cost-effective than conventional steel frame construction. The structure and construction system offer in-built flexibility. The compound elongate beams may be formed on-site by using self-tapping screws or hand held clinching tools when required. Several of the components, such as the compound elongate beams are modular arrangements of basic elements, such as the elongate frame members, and may be formed on site when required. Due to the correspondence of connection of the basic and modular elements, they may be connected using the same type of connectors. Moreover, the shape and dimensions of the connectors may be altered for different types and angles of joints. According to an eleventh aspect of the invention, a blank adapted to be formed into the elongate frame member is provided.

Advantageously, blanks are a ready and cost-effective method of manufacturing the elongate frame member.

According to a twelfth aspect of the invention, a blank adapted to be formed into the I-beam is provided.

Advantageously, blanks are a ready and cost-effective method of manufacturing the I-beams.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the invention, a blank adapted to be formed into the elongate connector is provided.

Advantageously, blanks are a ready and cost-effective method of manufacturing the elongate connectors.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the invention, a blank adapted to be formed into the intersection connector is provided.

Advantageously, blanks are a ready and cost-effective method of manufacturing the intersection connectors. According to a fifteenth aspect of the invention, a blank adapted to be formed into the elongate cladding support member is provided.

Advantageously, blanks are a ready and cost-effective method of manufacturing the elongate cladding support members.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the invention, a subassembly of a frame construction system is provided comprising one or more horizontally orientated elongate frame members as described above, one or more vertically orientated elongate frame members as described above and one or more elongate connectors as described above, wherein the or at least one of the horizontally orientated elongate frame members is connected to the or at least one of the vertically orientated elongate frame members by virtue of the or at least one of the elongate connectors.

Advantageously, one type of member, namely the elongate frame member, can be used in different positions and/or for different functions within the cold formed frame system, thus potentially reducing manufacturing costs and possible wastage.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the invention, an elongate frame member for a frame construction system is provided, comprising: a channel having a smooth floor, two side walls extending upwardly from opposing edges of the floor, and two flanges extending inwardly from top edges of the respective side walls.

Advantageously, the smooth floor of the elongate frame members allows elongate connectors fitted to the elongate frame members to slide within the elongate frame members. Thus, the relative position of the connected members may be adjusted (e.g. to fit within recesses of building blocks that are dry stacked). Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of elongate frame members for a frame construction system as defined above.

Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of compound elongate beams as defined above.

Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of I-beams as defined above.

Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of elongate connectors as defined above.

Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of subassemblies of a frame construction system as defined above. Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of intersection connectors as defined above.

Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of elongate cladding support members as defined above.

Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of compound elongate cladding support beams as defined above.

Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of pole sleeves as defined above. Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of structures as defined above.

Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of blanks as defined above. Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of subassemblies of a frame construction system as defined above.

Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of elongate frame members for a frame construction system as defined above.

Advantageously, the various aspects of the present invention described above provide significant environmental benefits both in terms of lessened impact on the environment and sustainability.

While assessment of the environmental impact of steel structures using the conventional life cycle assessment (LCA) method shows significant energy and resource inputs and waste and pollution outputs, in the broader context, taking into account the effects of land use (e.g. ecosystem disruption), steel structures compare favourably to many other building products (e.g. timber).

Further advantages of aspects of the present invention relating to reducing environmental impact and enhancing sustainability include:

- enhanced structural efficiency since structures according to aspects of the present invention are lighter, stronger and do not require as large foundations as typical constructions,

- off-site fabrication enabling efficient use of energy and minimising waste (which is recyclable), and

- manual installation and assembly of the structure components to create wall, floor and roof frames in many cases without using power or specialised tools.

Other advantages of aspects of the present invention include:

- efficient use of material and labour, particularly as a result of less fasteners being required,

- efficient transport of the pre-cut and coded components to a site, and

- easy manual handling of the components on site as they are lightweight. Brief Description of the Drawings

Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, a preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Fig 1 is a partial cutaway isometric view of an example of a two-storey building steel frame structure in accordance with a preferred embodiment;

Figs 2A to 2D are isometric views showing the adaptation of a rectangular steel blank to form an elongate frame member in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention of the cold formed steel frame structure of Fig 1 in sequential steps. Figs 3A to 3D are isometric views showing the adaptation of a rectangular steel blank to form an elongate connector of the cold formed steel frame structure of Fig 1 in sequential steps.

Fig 4 is an isometric view of a first cold formed steel frame subassembly having an elongate connector according to Fig 3D snap fitted into a first elongate frame member according to Fig 2D, of the cold formed steel frame structure of Fig 1.

Fig 5 is an isometric view of a second cold formed steel frame subassembly, having a first cold formed steel frame subassembly according to Fig 4 and a second elongate frame member according to Fig 2D snap fitted into an elongate connector according to Fig 4.

Fig 6 is an isometric view of a third cold formed steel frame subassembly, having an elongate connector snap fitted into a first elongate frame member according to Fig 2D and a second elongate frame member.

Fig 7 is an isometric view of a fourth cold formed steel frame subassembly, having an elongate connector snap fitted into a first elongate frame member according to Fig 2D, a second elongate frame member and a third elongate frame member. Fig 8 is an isometric view of a fifth cold formed steel frame subassembly, having an elongate connector snap fitted into a first elongate frame member according to Fig 2D, a second elongate frame member according to Fig 2D and a third elongate frame member according to Fig 2D.

Fig 9 is an isometric view of a sixth cold formed steel frame subassembly, having an intersection connector snap fitted into a first elongate frame member according to Fig 2D and a second elongate frame member according to Fig 2D. Fig 10 is an isometric view of a seventh cold formed steel frame subassembly, having an elongate connector snap fitted into a first elongate frame member according to Fig 2D and a second elongate frame member according to Fig 2D.

Fig 11 is an isometric view of a first compound elongate beam comprising a first and a second elongate frame member according to Fig 2D attached together.

Fig 12 is an isometric view of a second compound elongate beam comprising a first and a second elongate frame member according to Fig 2D attached together.

Fig 12A is an isometric view of an I-beam having a Z-shaped beam component with two integral elongated caps. Fig 13 is an isometric view of a third compound elongate beam having a compound elongate beam according to Fig 12 and a third elongate frame member according to Fig 2D.

Fig 14 is an isometric view of a fourth compound elongate beam having a compound elongate beam according to Fig 13 and a fourth elongate frame member according to Fig 2D.

Fig 15 is an isometric view of an elongate cladding support member. Fig 16 is an isometric view of a compound elongate cladding support beam.

Fig 17 is a detailed sectional view of a fixation of wall frame members of a cold formed steel frame to a concrete foundation.

Fig 18 is a detailed sectional view of a junction of an external wall to floor joist of a cold formed steel frame. Fig 19 is a detailed sectional view of a junction of an external wall to a roof truss.

Fig 20 is a detailed sectional view of a portion of the roof truss of Fig 19 at a junction of a top chord and diagonal member.

Fig 21 is a detailed sectional view of a portion of the roof truss of Fig 19 at a junction of a bottom chord and diagonal members. Fig 22 is a detailed sectional view of a portion of the roof truss of Fig 19 at a ridge.

Fig 23 is a detailed sectional view of a portion of a roof truss at a ridge.

Fig 24 is a detailed sectional view of the roof truss of Fig 23 at a midpoint of a bottom chord.

Fig 25 is a partial cutaway isometric view of a two storey building structure comprising a cold formed steel frame and a plurality of building blocks. Fig 26 is a detailed sectional view of a fixation of wall frame members of a cold formed steel frame to a concrete foundation.

Fig 27 is a detailed sectional view of a junction of an external wall to floor joist of a cold formed steel frame. Fig 28 is a detailed sectional view of a junction of an external wall to a roof truss.

Fig 29 is an isometric view of a first pole connection sleeve and a compound cladding support beam according to Fig 16 mounted on a pole.

Fig 30 is an isometric view of a second pole connection sleeve and a compound cladding support beam according to Fig 16 mounted on a pole. Fig 31 is an isometric view of a third pole connection sleeve and a beam, mounted to a portion of a pole.

Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments

Referring to the figures, a cold formed steel frame system 10 is shown, for constructing steel frames in the residential or commercial construction industry. For example, the steel frame structure could be used to construct the steel frame of a building.

Referring to Fig 1 , a first example of a building structure 15 is shown. The building structure 15 comprises a roof substructure 20, a wall substructure 25 and a floor substructure 30, and is built on a foundation 1000.

The roof substructure 20 further comprises a roof framework 40, a roof batten 45, and a ceiling batten 50. The roof framework 40 has two identical and opposing roof trusses 55 each having top chord truss member 65, diagonal truss members 70 and a bottom chord truss member 75.

The wall substructure 25 further comprises a top wall track 80, double jamb studs 85, intermediate wall studs 90, single infill studs 95, double infill studs 100, diagonal wall braces 105, wall noggins 1 10 and a bottom wall track 1 15.

The floor substructure 30 further comprises a perimeter floor beam 120, a window sill 125, floor joists 130 and a floor beam 135.

Referring to Fig 25, a second example of a building structure 15A formed from the cold formed steel frame system 10 is shown as a partial cutaway. The building structure 15A comprises a roof substructure 2OA, a wall substructure 25A, a floor substructure 3OA and a foundation 1000A and further comprises a novel lightweight building block system 136. The building blocks 136 are reinforced with fibre steel when required and may be used to construct mortar-less walls and floors of a building. It should be noted that the building blocks may be reinforced with other material.

Referring to Figs 2A to 2D, the adaptation of a first rectangular steel blank 140 to form an elongate frame member 145 is shown. The elongate frame member 145 comprises a channel 150 and engagement portions taking the form of regularly spaced embossments 155. The channel 150 is defined by a floor 156, two side walls 160 extending substantially perpendicular and upwardly from opposing edges of the floor 155 and two flanges 165 extending substantially perpendicular and inwardly from top edges of the respective sides walls 160, forming substantially a C-shape. The embossments 155 are located on the floor of the channel 150. Each flange 165 has a free edge folded downwardly to lie adjacent to its undersurface, forming a lip 170. An elongate overhanging recess 175 is formed in a space between each lip 170 and corresponding side wall 160. The embossments 155 are generally elliptical in shape and are laterally orientated in relation to the channel 150. Specifically, Fig 2A shows the first rectangular blank 140 having embossments 155 located in its longitudinal mid-region, which subsequently forms the floor 156 of the channel 150. The initial folding of the lips 170 are shown in phantom lines. Fig 2B shows a partially folded first rectangular blank 140 having embossments 155 and folded lips 170. The folding of the flanges 165 are shown in phantom lines. Fig 2C shows a partially formed elongate frame member 145 having embossments 155 and folded flanges 165 and lips 170. The folding of the side walls 160 are shown in phantom lines. Fig 2D shows a fully formed elongate frame member 145 as described above.

Referring to Figs 3A to 3D, the adaption of a second rectangular steel blank 180 to form a folded blank 181 (see Fig 3B), a basic elongate connector 185 (see Fig 3C) and subsequently a right angled elongate connector 190 (see Fig 3D) is shown. The basic elongate connector 185 and the right angled elongate connector 190 both comprise similar features. Each comprises a bridge portion 195, two connection portions 200, 205 and engagement portions taking the form of regularly spaced embossments 206. The connection portions 200, 205 are located one at either end of the bridge portion 195 and are in end-to- end relation with the bridge portion 195.

The bridge portion 195 has a floor 207 and two lips 208 located on opposing side edges of the floor 207. The two lips 208 increase the longitudinal stiffness of the floor 207 of the bridge portion 195. Each connection portion 200, 205 has a floor 210, 215 and two side walls 220, 225 extending generally upwardly from opposing side edges of the floor 210, 215. Respective top edges of each pair of side walls 220, 225 are folded inwardly to lie adjacent to the respective inner surfaces, forming lips 230, 235. Each connection portion 200, 205 has a generally C-shaped cross-section, such that the respective side walls 220, 225 are more widely spaced apart at their top ends than at their bottom ends.

The floor 207 of the bridge portion 195 is integral with the floors 210, 215 of the two connection portions 200, 205. One embossment 206 is located on the floor 207 of the bridge portion 195 and two embossments 206 are located on each of the floors 210, 215 of the connection portions 200, 205. All five embossments 206 are equally spaced, elliptical in shape and laterally orientated in relation to the floors 207, 210, 215. A bottom portion of the side walls 220 of a first connection portion 200 are integral with the lips 208 of the bridge portion 195 at respective opposing edges of the respective floors 210, 207. There is a substantially U-shaped space 240 between each lip 208 of the bridge portion 195 and a bottom portion of each side wall 225 of a second connection portion 205 at the respective opposing edges of the respective floors 207, 215.

The basic elongate connector 185 and the right angled elongate connector 190 each further comprise three sets of apertures 245, each set having three apertures, located through the floors 207, 210, 215 between the embossments 206. The basic elongate connector 185 further comprises a bending guide taking the form of a score line 250 in between the floor 207 of the bridge portion 195 and the floor 215 of the second connection portion 205. In the right angled elongate connector 190, the bending guide 250 has been formed into right angled bend 255. The U-shaped spaces 240 facilitate the right angled bend 255 in the right angled elongate connector 190 by ensuring that the lips 208 of the bridge portion 195 do not contact the side walls 225 of the second connection portion 205. Thus, the bridge portion 195 and the first connection portion 200 are provided in right angled relation to the second connection portion 205.

The connection portions 200, 205 are adapted to mechanically engage with the elongate frame member 145. The side walls 220, 225 of the first and second connection portions 200, 205 are adapted to fit between the side walls 160 of the channel 150 of the elongate frame member 145 and the lips 230, 235 of the side walls 220, 225 of the first and second connection portions 200, 205 are adapted to snap-fit into respective elongate overhanging recesses 175 of the channel 150 of the elongate frame member 145. The wider spacing at the top ends of the side walls 220, 225 of the connection portions 200, 205 allows the connection portions 200, 205 to be tight fit between the side walls 160 of the elongate frame member 145 and substantially prevents the connection portions 200, 205 from being outwardly displaced from the channel 150 of the elongate frame member 145. The engagement portions take the form of embossments 206 of the right angled elongate connector 190 and are adapted to correspondingly engage with the engagement portions taking the form of embossments 155 of the elongate frame member 145, such that the connection portions 200, 205 of the right angled elongate connector 190 are substantially prevented from sliding within the channel 150 of the elongate frame member 145 in a longitudinal direction.

It should be noted that the engagement portions 155, 206 need not take the form of embossments 155, 206. They may take any form sufficient to prevent the connection portions 200, 205 of the right angled elongate connector 190 from sliding within the channel 150 of the elongate frame member 145. For example, the engagement portions 155 of the elongate frame member may take the form of a plurality of raised plates or hooks and the engagement portions 206 of the right angled connector 190 may correspondingly take the shape of a plurality of apertures adapted to engage the raised plates or hooks.

Referring specifically to Fig 4, the process of snap-fitting the second connection portion 205 of a right angled elongate connector 190 to a channel 258 of a first elongate frame member 259 is shown, forming a partially assembled right angled subassembly 260. Referring specifically to Fig 5, the process of snap-fitting a second elongate frame member 264 to the first connection portion 200 of the right angled elongate connector 190 of the partially assembled first subassembly is shown, forming a fully assembled right angled subassembly 265. Thus, the second elongate frame member 264 is connected to the first elongate frame member 259 at a right angle by virtue of the right angled elongate connector 190. An end 270 of each side wall 275 of the second elongate frame member 264 flushly abuts a top surface of a flange 280 of a respective side wall 281 of the first elongate frame member 259.

Referring to Fig 6, a process of assembling a subassembly in accordance with a second embodiment is shown, namely an obtuse angled subassembly 265A. The obtuse angled subassembly comprises a first elongate frame member 259A, a second elongate frame member 264A and an obtuse angled elongate connector 190A. The obtuse angled elongate connector 190A has similar features to the right angled elongate connector 190 and may be formed from a second embodiment form of a basic elongate connector 185A. The bridge portion 195A of the obtuse angled elongate connector 190A is longer than the bridge portion 195 of the right angled elongate connector 190 and has two embossments 206A located on a floor 207A. The obtuse angled elongate connector 190A comprises four sets of apertures 245A. The obtuse angled elongate connector 190A is bent at an obtuse angle along a lateral line located between the floor 207A of the bridge portion 195A and a floor 215A of a second connection portion 205A. In this embodiment, the angle is approximately 120 degrees. In another embodiment, the angle lies between 1 10 degrees and 130 degrees. In another embodiment, the angle lies between 90 degrees and 180 degrees. In another embodiment, the angle lies between 0 and 90 degrees.

A second connection portion 205A of the obtuse angled elongate connector 190A is snap- fitted into a channel 258A of the first elongate frame member 259A. An end 270A of each side wall 275A of the second elongate frame member 264A is formed at an angle substantially equal to the angle between the floor 207A of the bridge portion 195A and the floor 215A of the second connection portion 205A of the obtuse angled elongate connector 190A. In this embodiment, the angle is approximately 120 degrees.

Thus, when the second elongate frame member 264A is snap-fitted to a first connection portion 200A of the obtuse angled elongate connector 190A, the angled end 270A of each side wall 275A of the second elongate frame member 264A flushly abuts a top surface of a flange 280A of a respective side wall 281 A of the first elongate frame member 259A, the second elongate frame member 264A being connected to the first elongate frame member 259A at an obtuse angle by virtue of the obtuse angled elongate connector 190A. Referring to Fig 7, a process of assembling a subassembly in accordance with a third embodiment is shown, namely a V-shaped subassembly 265B. The V-shaped subassembly 265B comprises a first, a second and a third elongate frame member 259B, 264B, 285 and an elongate connector in accordance with a third embodiment, namely a V-shaped elongate connector 190B. The V-shaped elongate connector 190B comprises a first and a second bridge portion 195B, 295 and a first, a second and a third connection portion 200B, 205B, 300. The first bridge portion 195B is located in between the first and second bridge portions 200B, 205B and the second bridge portion 295 is located between the second and third connection portions 205B, 300. The second bridge portion 295 has a floor 305 and two lips 310 located on opposing side edges of the floor 305, similarly to the first bridge portion 195B. The third connection portion 300 has a floor 315 and two side walls 320, similarly to the first and second connection portions 200B, 205B. The second bridge portion 295 and third connection portion 300 each has two embossments 206B located on the floor 305, 315. The V-shape elongate connector 190B further comprises seven sets of apertures 245B located between the embossments 206B.

The V-shaped elongate connector 190B is bent at an obtuse angle along a lateral line located between the floor 207B of the first bridge portion 195B and a floor 215B of the second connection portion 205B. In this embodiment, the angle is approximately 120 degrees. In another embodiment, the angle lies between 1 10 degrees and 130 degrees. In another embodiment, the angle lies between 90 degrees and 180 degrees. The V-shaped elongate connector 190B is further bent at an obtuse angle along a lateral line located between the floor 215B of the second connection portion 205B and the floor 305 of the second bridge portion 295. In this embodiment, the angle is approximately 120 degrees. In another embodiment, the angle lies between 110 degrees and 130 degrees. In another embodiment, the angle lies between 90 degrees and 180 degrees.

Thus the V-shaped elongate connector 190B has two arms 325, 330 extending generally upwardly from a base 335, a first arm 325 being formed by the first connection portion 200B and the first bridge portion 195B, a second arm 330 being formed by the third connection portion 300 and the second bridge portion 295, and the base 335 being formed by the second connection portion 205B. The arrangement of the arms 325, 330 and the base 335 generally forms a V-shape. The second connection portion 205B of the V-shaped elongate connector 190B is snap-fitted into a channel 258B of the first elongate frame member 259B.

An end 270B of each side wall 275B of the second elongate frame member 264B is formed at an angle substantially equal to the angle between the floor 207B of the bridge portion 195B and the floor 215B of the second connection portion 205B of the V-shaped elongate connector 190B. In this embodiment, the angle is approximately 120 degrees.

Thus, when the second elongate frame member 264B is snap-fitted to the first connection portion 200B of the V-shaped elongate connector 190B, the angled end 270B of each side wall 275B of the second elongate frame member 264B flushly abuts a top surface of a flange 280B of a respective side wall 281 B of the first elongate frame member 259B and the second elongate frame member 264B is connected to the first elongate frame member 259B at an obtuse angle by virtue of the first arm 325 of the V-shaped elongate connector 19OB.

An end 340 of each side wall 345 of the third elongate frame member 285 is formed at an angle substantially equal to the angle between the floor 215B of the second connection portion 205B and the floor 305 of the second bridge portion 295 of the V-shaped elongate connector 190B. In this embodiment, the angle is approximately 120 degrees.

Thus, when the third elongate frame member 285 is snap-fitted to the third connection portion 300 of the V-shaped elongate connector 190B, the angled end 340 of each side wall 345 of the third elongate frame member 285 flushly abuts the top surface of the flange 280B of the respective side wall 281 B of the first elongate frame member 259B and the third elongate frame member 285 is connected to the first elongate frame member 259B at an obtuse angle by virtue of the second arm 330 of the V-shaped elongate connector 190B.

Referring to Fig 8, a process of assembling a subassembly in accordance with a fourth embodiment is shown, namely an irregular-V-shaped subassembly 265C. The irregular-V- shaped subassembly 265C comprises a first, a second and a third elongate frame member 259C, 264C, 285C and an elongate connector in accordance with a fourth embodiment, namely an irregular-V-shaped elongate connector 190C.

Similarly to the V-shaped elongate connector 190B (see Fig 7), the irregular-V-shaped elongate connector 190C has two arms 325C, 330C extending generally upwardly from a base 335C, a first arm 325C being formed by a first connection portion 200C and a first bridge portion 195C, the base 335C being formed by a second connection portion 205C, and a second arm 330C being formed by a third connection portion 300C and a second bridge portion 295C. The arrangement of the arms 325C, 330C and the base 335C generally forms an irregular-V-shape.

Similarly to the V-shaped elongate connector 190B (see Fig 7), the irregular-V-shaped elongate connector 190C has a first arm 325C which extends generally upwardly at an obtuse angle to the base 335C, the floor 207C of the first bridge portion 195C and a floor 215C of the second connection portion 205C being bent at approximately 120 degrees to each other. In another embodiment, the angle lies between 1 10 degrees and 130 degrees. In another embodiment, the angle lies between 90 degrees and 180 degrees.

In this embodiment, the second arm 330C extends upwardly at a right angle to the base 335C, the floor 215C of the second connection portion 205C and the floor 305C of the second bridge portion 295C substantially forming a right angle. The second connection portion 205C of the irregular-V-shaped elongate connector 190C is snap-fitted into a channel 258C of the first elongate frame member 259C.

Similarly to the V-shaped subassembly 265B, in the irregular-V-shaped subassembly, an end 270C of each side wall 275C of the second elongate frame member 264C is formed at an angle substantially equal to the angle between the first arm 325C and the base 335C of the irregular-V-shaped elongate connector 190C. In this embodiment, the angle is approximately 120 degrees.

Thus, when the second elongate frame member 264C is snap-fitted to the first connection portion 200C of the irregular-V-shaped elongate connector 190C, the angled end 270C of each side wall 275C of the second elongate frame member 264C flushly abuts a top surface of a flange 280C of a respective side wall 281 C of the first elongate frame member 259C, the second elongate frame member 264C being connected to the first elongate frame member 259C at an obtuse angle by virtue of the first arm 325C of the irregularly-V-shaped elongate connector 190C. An end 340C of each side wall 345C of the third elongate frame member 285C is right angled. When the third elongate frame member 285C is snap-fitted to the third connection portion 300C of the irregular-V-shaped elongate connector 190C, the end 340C of each side wall 345C of the third elongate frame member 285C flushly abuts the top surface of the flange 280C of the respective side wall 281 C of the first elongate frame member 259C. Thus, the third elongate frame member 285C is connected to the first elongate frame member 259C at a right angle by virtue of the second arm 330C of the irregular-V-shaped elongate connector 190C.

Referring to Fig 10, a process of assembling a subassembly in accordance with a fifth embodiment is shown, namely an inclining subassembly 265D. The inclining subassembly comprises a first and a second elongate frame member 259D, 264D and an elongate connector in accordance with a fifth embodiment, namely an inclining connector 190D.

The inclining connector 190D comprises a first and a second connection portion 200D, 205D and a bridge portion 195D, one connection portion 200D, 205D being located at either end of the bridge portion 195D. The floor 207D of the bridge portion 195D is integral with the floors 210D, 215D of the first and second connection portions 200D, 205D. When orientated substantially vertically, the first and second connection portions 200D, 205D extend away from the bridge portion 195D in generally one direction, such that when viewed from a side, the floors 207D, 210D, 215D form generally a C-shape and side walls 220D of the first connection portion 200D extend substantially towards side walls 225D of the second connection portion 205D. The floor 210D of the first connection portion 200D subtends a first angle of approximately 120 degrees with the floor 207D of the bridge portion 195D and the floor 215D of the second connection portion 205D subtends substantially a second angle of approximately 90 degrees with the bridge portion 195D. In another embodiment, the first angle lies between about 90 and about 180 degrees and the second angle lies between about 90 and about 180 degrees. In another embodiment, the first angle lies between about 110 and 130 degrees and the second angle lies between about 90 and 100 degrees. The bridge portion 195D comprises two lips 208D located on opposing side edges of the floor 207D for increasing its longitudinal stiffness. U-shaped spaces 240D separate the two lips 208D from the side walls 220D, 225D of the connection portions 200D, 205D respectively. In this embodiment, each of the connection portions 200D, 205D comprise two embossments

206D located on the floor 210D, 215D and the bridge portion 195D comprises six embossments 206D. A plurality of apertures 245D are located between one or more of the embossments 206D.

Thus, when the first and second elongate frame members 259D, 264D are snap-fitted onto the second and first connection portions 205D, 200D respectively, an inclining subassembly

265D is provided in which the first and second elongate frame members 259D, 264D are orientated generally longitudinally in relation to each other with the channels 258D, 350 of the first and second elongate frame members 259D, 264D substantially facing each other. In this embodiment, the second elongate frame member 264D is provided at a slight incline in relation to the first elongate frame member 259D.

Referring to Fig 9, a process of assembling a subassembly in accordance with a sixth embodiment is shown, namely an intersection subassembly 265E. The intersection subassembly 265E comprises a first and a second elongate frame member 259E, 264E and an intersection connector 355. The intersection connector 355 comprises a first and a second connection portion 360, 365 and a bridge portion 370. Each connection portion respectively has a floor 375, 380 and two side walls 385, 390, the side walls 385 of the first connection portion 360 extending substantially upwardly from opposing side edges of the floor 375 and the side walls 390 of the second connection portion 365 extending substantially downwardly from opposing side edges of the floor 380. The bridge portion 370 has a first bridge section 395 and a second bridge section (not shown) adapted to fix the second connection portion 365 in spaced, perpendicular and elevated relation to the first connection portion 360.

A bottom end 405 of the first bridge section 395 is perpendicularly connected to an end of the floor 375 of the first connection portion 360. A side (not shown) of the first bridge section 395 is perpendicularly connected to a side of the second bridge section (not shown). A top end of the second bridge section (not shown) is perpendicularly connected to an end 415 of the floor 380 of the second connection portion 365. The intersection connector 355 further comprises engagement portions, taking the form of embossments 420, and a plurality of apertures 425 located on the floor 375, 380 of each of the connection portions 360, 365.

The connection portions 360, 365 each have a similar shape and features to the connection portions 200, 205 of the embodiments of the elongate connectors 190 to 190D and are adapted to similarly mechanically engage by snap-fitting into an elongate frame member 145. The bridge sections 395 have lips 430 located on free edges to increase their rigidity.

Thus, when the first and second elongate frame members 259E, 264E are snap-fitted onto the first and second connection portions 360, 365 respectively, an intersection subassembly is provided in which the second elongate frame member 264E is located perpendicularly above and spaced apart from the first elongate frame member 259E and a channel 258E of the first elongate frame member 259E substantially faces a channel 350E of the second elongate frame member 264E.

Referring to Fig 1 1 , a compound elongate beam 435 is shown, in accordance with a first embodiment, comprising a first and a second elongate frame member 440, 445 having substantially the same features as the elongate frame member 145. The first and second elongate frame members 440, 445, are of the same dimensions as each other and each has a floor 450, 455 respectively. Undersides of the floors 450, 455 are attached together by a plurality of fasteners 456 regularly spaced and located adjacent opposing side edges of the floors 450, 455. Thus, the first and second elongate frame members 440, 445 are superposed such that channels 460, 465 of the first and second elongate frame members 440, 445 respectively face away from each other, forming a beam having a substantially I- shaped cross-section.

Referring to Fig 12, a compound elongate beam 435A is shown, in accordance with a second embodiment. In this embodiment, floors 450A, 455A of first and second elongate frame members 440A, 445A have wider dimensions than in compound elongate beam 435 of the first embodiment.

Referring to Fig 13, a compound elongate beam 435B, in accordance with a third embodiment, is shown. In this embodiment, the compound elongate beam 435B comprises a first, a second and a third elongate frame member 440B, 445B, 466, each having substantially the same features as the elongate frame member 145. The first and second elongate frame members are attached as described in the compound elongate beams of the first and second embodiments 435, 435A. A channel 467 of the third elongate frame member 466 is narrower than the channels 460B, 465B of each of the first and second elongate frame members 440B, 445B. The undersurface of a floor 468 of the third elongate frame member 466 is attached by fasteners 469 to outside surfaces of adjacent first side walls 470, 471 of the first and second elongate frame members 440B, 445B, respectively, such that the channels 460B, 465B, 467 of the elongate frame members 440B, 445B, 466 are longitudinally aligned. The floor 468 of the third elongate frame member 466 has a width that is substantially equal to the combined heights of the first side walls 470, 471. In this embodiment, the dimensions of the first elongate frame member 440B are substantially the same as the dimensions of the second elongate frame member 445B.

Referring to Fig 14, a compound elongate beam 435C, in accordance with a fourth embodiment, is shown, comprising a first, a second, a third and a fourth elongate frame member 440C, 445C, 466C, 480, each having substantially the same features as the elongate frame member 145. The first, second and third elongate frame members 440C, 445C, 466C are attached as described in the compound elongate beam of the third embodiment 435B. The undersurface of a floor 485 of the fourth elongate frame member 480 is attached by fasteners 490 to outside surfaces of adjacent second side walls 495, 500 of the first and second elongate frame members 440C, 445C, respectively, such that channels 460C, 465C, 467C, 505 of the elongate frame members 440C, 445C, 466C, 480 are longitudinally aligned. The floor 485 of the fourth elongate frame member 480 has a width that is substantially equal to the combined heights of the second side walls 495, 500. In this embodiment, the dimensions of the first elongate frame member 440C are substantially the same as the dimensions of the second elongate frame member 445C and the dimensions of the third elongate frame member 466C are substantially the same as the dimensions of the fourth elongate frame member 480.

Referring to Fig 12A, an alternative I-beam 510 is shown, comprising a Z-shaped beam component 515 and a first and a second elongate cap 520, 525.

The S-shaped beam component 515 has a main wall 530, a first wall 535and a second wall 540. The first wall 535 extends substantially perpendicularly from a first side edge 545 of the main wall 530in a first direction. The second wall 540 extends substantially perpendicularly from a second side edge 550 of the main wall 530in a second direction substantially opposite to the first direction. The relative arrangement of the main wall 530 and first and second walls 535, 540 form a substantially S-shaped cross-section.

The first wall 535has a flange 555 extending from its free edge in a direction that is substantially parallel to and towards the second side edge 550 of the main wall 530. The second wall 540 has a flange 560 extending from its free edge in a direction that is substantially parallel to and towards the first side edge 545 of the main wall 530. The main wall 530 further comprises engagement portions taking the form of corrugations 565, located substantially along a longitudinal mid-region.

The first elongate cap 520 has two flanges 570, 575 extending in substantially one direction from opposing side edges of a rectangular elongate mid-section 580. The second elongate cap 525 has two flanges 585, 590 extending in substantially one direction from opposing side edges of a rectangular elongate mid-section 595. The elongate mid-section 580 of the first elongate cap 520 flushly abuts an outer surface of the first wall 535 of the S-shaped beam component 515 and the elongate mid-section 595 of the second elongate cap 525 flushly abuts an outer surface of the second wall 540 of the S-shaped beam component 515 such that the flanges 570, 575 of the first elongate cap 520 extend towards the flanges 590, 585 of the second elongate cap 525 and the first and second elongate caps 520, 525 are directly superposed. In this embodiment, flanges 570, 585 are integral with flanges 555, 560, respectively. In other embodiments, the main wall 530, first wall 535 and second wall 540 are all separate components. Flanges 575 and 590 each comprises an inwardly folded free edge 600, 605, respectively, adapted to lie adjacent to an inner surface of the respective flange 575, 590. Thus, the arrangement of the S-shaped beam component 515 and the first and second elongate caps 580, 595 forms a beam having a substantially l-shaped cross- section.

Referring to Fig 15, an elongate cladding support member 610 is shown, comprising a base 615, a wall 620 and a flange 625. The base 615 has an open loop rectangular cross-section, where the opening 630 of the loop takes the form of a longitudinal gap located at the top face of an otherwise complete rectangular cross-section. The wall 620 extends perpendicularly upwardly from a first free edge 635 of the loop, the first free edge 630 being located along approximately a longitudinal midline of the base 615. Thus, a portion of the base 615 protrudes to either side of the wall 620. The opening 630 is located adjacent the wall 620, in a first direction.

The flange 625 extends perpendicularly outwardly from a top edge of the wall 620 in the first direction and further comprises a lip 640 extending perpendicularly downwardly from a free edge of the flange 625. The portion of the base 615 protruding in the same direction as the flange 625, the wall 620 and the flange 625 forms a slot 645 having a generally C-shaped cross-section. The slot 645 is adapted to receive an edge of a piece of cladding. The wall 620 further comprises a plurality of apertures 650.

The opening 630 is adapted to allow a first side wall of a connection portion to be located within the base 615 and a second side wall to be snap-fitted into the lip 640, and thus the connection portion may be used to connect the elongate cladding support member 610 to other members.

Referring to Fig 16, a compound elongate cladding support beam 655 is shown, comprising a first and a second elongate cladding support member 660, 665 in accordance with a second embodiment of the elongate cladding support member 610. Each of the first and second elongate cladding support members 660, 665 comprises a base 670, 675, a wall 680, 685 and a flange 690, 695, respectively.

Each of the elongate cladding support members 660, 665 has equivalent features, and thus for clarity, only features of the first elongate cladding support member 660 will be described. The flange 690 extends perpendicularly outwardly from a top edge of the wall 680 in a first direction and further comprises a lip 700 extending perpendicularly downwardly from a free edge of the flange 690. The base 670 has a base floor 705, a base wall 710 and a suspension wall 715. The base floor 705 extends perpendicularly outwardly from a bottom edge of the wall 680 in the same direction as the flange. The base wall 710 extends perpendicularly upwardly from an outer edge of the base floor 705. The suspension wall 715 extends perpendicularly inwardly from a top edge of the base wall 710. The suspension wall 715 extends towards the wall 680 but maintains an opening 716 between its free end and the wall 680. In this embodiment, the base 670 protrudes in only the first direction from the wall 680, and the base 670, the wall 680 and the flange 690 forms a slot 720 having a generally C-shaped cross-section. The slot 720 is adapted to receive an edge of a piece of cladding. The wall 680 further comprises a plurality of apertures 725.

The opening 716 is adapted to allow a first side wall of a connection portion to be located within the base 670 and a second side wall to be snap-fitted into the lip 700, and thus the connection portion may be used to connect the compound elongate cladding support beam 655 to other members.

The first and second elongate cladding support members 660, 665 are joined back-to-back in mirroring relation to form the compound elongate cladding support beam 655, such that two slots 720, 725 are formed, and thus the compound elongate cladding support beam 655 is adapted to receive edges of pieces of cladding from either side or both sides. Referring to Fig 29, a pole sleeve 730 connecting a compound elongate cladding support beam 655 to two poles 1001 , 1005 is shown, comprising a hollow body 735 adapted to receive the poles 1001 , 1005 and a first and a second member attachment flange 740, 741. The hollow body 735 has a substantially rectangular cross-section and further comprises a top set of apertures 745 and a bottom set of apertures (not shown) to facilitate the use of fasteners 750, 751 to substantially stop the pole sleeve 730 from sliding relative to the poles 1001 , 1005 and to connect two poles. A first pole 1001 is fastened to the pole sleeve 730 by virtue of the top set of apertures 745 and a second pole 1005 is fastened to the pole sleeve 730 by virtue of the bottom set of apertures 746, in use. The pole sleeve 730 is adapted to receive poles having substantially rectangular cross-sections.

The first member attachment flange 740 protrudes generally perpendicularly from a first face 755 of the hollow body 735 and the second member attachment flange 741 protrudes generally perpendicularly from a second face 760 of the hollow body 735, the first and second face 755, 760 being adjacent. Each flange 740, 741 takes the form of a rectangular plate and comprises two apertures 765 to facilitate the use of fasteners 775 to attach the compound elongate cladding support beam 655 to the pole sleeve 730. In this embodiment, each flange 740, 741 is formed from a through-cut and outwardly folded portion of the hollow body 735.

It should be noted that the pole sleeve 730 is not limited to connect one or two poles 1001 , 1005 to a compound elongate cladding support beam 655, but any type of beam or member with a suitable attachment portion.

Referring to Fig 30, a pole sleeve 730A, according to a second embodiment of the pole sleeve 730, connecting a compound elongate cladding support beam 655 to two poles 1001 A, 1005A is shown. The pole sleeve 730A comprises a hollow body 735A and a first and a second member attachment flange 740A, 741A. In this embodiment, the hollow body 735A has a substantially circular cross-section. The pole sleeve 730A is adapted to receive poles having substantially circular cross-sections and has substantially the same functionality as the pole sleeve 730 of Fig 29.

Referring to Fig 31 , a pole sleeve 730B, according to a third embodiment of the pole sleeve 730, connecting a member 1010 to two poles 1001 B, 1005B is shown. Fig 31 also shows the process of attaching an elongate frame member 145 to a top surface of the member 1010.

The pole sleeve 730B comprises a hollow body 735B having a substantially rectangular cross-section and a first and a second set of member attachment flanges 785, 790. In this embodiment, each set of flanges 785, 790 is used to attach to one member 1010. The member attachment flanges of the first set 785 protrude generally perpendicularly from a first face 755B of the hollow body 735B and the member attachment flanges of the second set 790 protrude generally perpendicularly from a second face 760B of the hollow body 735B, the first and second face 755B, 760B being adjacent. Each set of flanges 785, 790 has equivalent features, and thus for clarity, only features of the first set of flanges 785 will be described. The first set of flanges 785 comprises three flanges, namely a first and a second side flange 800, 805 and a lower flange 810. The planes of the first and second side flanges 800, 805 are aligned with the hollow body 735B and the plane of the lower flange is perpendicular to these planes. Thus, when attached to a member 1010 of suitable dimensions, insides surfaces of the side flanges 800, 805 abut respective lateral sides of the member, and a top surface of the lower flange 810 abuts an underside of the member. Each flange 800, 805, 810 comprises an aperture 815, 820 for facilitating the use of a fastener 825 to fix the pole sleeve 735B to the member 1010 in use. In this embodiment, the flanges 800, 805, 810 are formed from outwardly folded portions of the hollow body 735B.

Referring to Fig 1 and specifically to Fig 17, a fixture 830 of a bottom wall track to a concrete foundation of the first example of a building structure 15 is shown, comprising a bottom wall track 115, an outer wall stud 85, a concrete foundation 1000, a concrete bolt 835 and exterior and interior wall cladding 1015, 1020. The bottom wall track 1 15 (seen in cross-section) takes the form of an elongate frame member 145 (see Fig 2D), having an undersurface of a floor 156 abutting a top surface of the concrete foundation 1000. The outer wall stud 85 takes the form of an elongate frame member 145 connected to the bottom wall track 1 15 by a right angled elongate connector 190, forming a right angled subassembly 260 (see Fig 4). In this embodiment, the bottom wall track 115 is the first elongate frame member 259 in the right angle subassembly 260 and the outer wall stud 85 is the second elongate frame member 264, such that the outer wall stud 85 extends perpendicularly upwardly from the bottom wall track 115. The concrete bolt 835 is located an aperture 245 of the right angled elongate connector 190, through the floor 156 of the bottom wall track 1 15 and into the concrete foundation 1000, thus fixing the right angled subassembly 260 to the concrete foundation 1000. Exterior and interior wall cladding 1015, 1020 are fitted accordingly (shown in phantom lines).

Referring to Figs 25 to 28, the wall and floor substructures 25A, 3OA of the building structure 15A, horizontally orientated members such as top wall tracks 8OA, bottom wall tracks 115A, perimeter floor beams 120A and/or floor beams 135A, take the form of elongate frame members 145A or are compound assemblies of elongate frame members 145A. The elongate frame members 145A are a second embodiment of the elongate frame members 145. The second embodiment elongate frame member 145A is very similar in structure to the elongate frame member 145 but does not have engagement portions or embossments as are located on the floor 156 of the elongate frame member 145. Instead a floor 156A of the elongate frame member 145A is smooth. The building structure 15A comprises a lightweight building block construction system 136. The smooth floor 156A of the elongate frame members 145A allows elongate connectors (any of 190 to 190D) fitted to the elongate frame members 145A to slide within the elongate frame members 145A. Thus, the relative position of other connected members, such as double jamb studs 85A, intermediate wall studs 9OA, single infill studs 95A, double infill studs 100A, diagonal wall braces 105A, wall noggins 110A, window sills 125a and/or floor joists 130A may be adjusted to fit within recesses of building blocks 136 that are dry stacked, without mortar. Subsequently, filler (not shown), for example high viscosity, non-shrinkage cement grout, may be poured into the recesses to fix the structure 15A and the building blocks 136 in place.

In the building structure 15A, the building block construction system 136 comprises masonry blocks 136. It should be noted that the building block construction system 136 may alternatively comprise a number of types of building blocks, for example, lightweight concrete blocks or panels, AAC blocks or panels, EPS blocks or panels or any other lightweight composite block or panel.

Referring to Fig 25 and specifically to Fig 26, a fixture 830A of a bottom wall track to the concrete foundation of the building structure 15A (see Fig 2) is shown, having similar features to the fixture 830 as previously described. A bottom wall track 115A, taking the form of an elongate frame member 145A, is shown in Fig 26 in cross-section, and has a smooth floor 156A abutting a top surface of the concrete foundation 1000A.

Referring to Fig 1 and specifically to Fig 18, a junction 845 of an external wall to second floor of the building structure 15 is shown, comprising a perimeter floor beam 120, a floor joist 130 and two double jamb studs 85. The perimeter floor beam 120 takes the form of a fourth embodiment of a compound elongate beam 435C (see Fig 14), the floor joist 130 takes the form of a second embodiment compound elongate beam 435A (see Fig 12) and the double jamb studs 85 take the form of elongate frame members 145 (see Fig 2D). A second elongate frame member 445C of the perimeter floor beam 120, 435C is connected to a first elongate frame member 440A of the floor joist 130, 435A by a first right angled connector 190, such that the floor joist 130, 435A extends perpendicularly away from the perimeter floor beam 120, 435C. A lower outer wall stud 85, 145 is connected to a third elongate frame connector 466C of the perimeter floor beam 120, 435C by a second right angled connector 190, such that the lower outer wall stud 85, 145 extends perpendicularly downwardly from the perimeter floor beam 120, 435C. An upper outer wall stud 85, 145 is connected to a fourth elongate frame connector 480C of the perimeter floor beam 120, 435C by a third right angled connector 190, such that the upper outer wall stud 85, 145 extends perpendicularly upwardly from the perimeter floor beam 120, 435C. Exterior and interior wall, floor and ceiling cladding 1015, 1020, 1021 , 1022, are fitted accordingly (shown in phantom lines).

Referring to Fig 25 and specifically to Fig 27, a junction 845A of an external wall to second floor of the building structure 15A is shown, having similar features to the junction 845 as previously described. The junction 845A further comprises the novel lightweight building block construction system 840 fitted to the structure 15A, building block screws 850 for securing wall building blocks 853 to the perimeter floor beam 120, 435C, a ceiling batten 854, a ceiling suspension fixture 855, a suspended ceiling 1025 and a concrete floor 1030. In this embodiment, the building blocks are also used for constructing the building block floor 860. The ceiling batten 854 is attached to an undersurface of the building block floor 860, the ceiling suspension fixture 855 is attached to the ceiling batten 854 and the suspended ceiling 1025 is fixed to an underside of the ceiling suspension fixture 855. The ceiling suspension fixture comprises an elongate frame member 865, having the form of an elongate frame member 145 as previously described, that is attached to the ceiling batten 854 by a special connector 870 fastened to the ceiling batten 854. The cement floor screed 1030 is located at a top surface of the building block floor 860.

Referring to Fig 1 and specifically to Fig 19, a junction 875 of an external wall to a roof truss of the building structure 15 is shown, comprising a top chord truss member 65, a bottom chord truss member 75, a top wall track 80 and an outer wall stud 85. The top chord truss member 65, the bottom chord truss member 75 and the top wall track 80 each take the form of a first embodiment compound elongate beam 435 (see Fig 11 ) and the outer wall stud 85 takes the form of an elongate frame member 145 (see Fig 2D). A second elongate frame member 445 of the bottom chord truss member 75, 435 (seen in side view) is connected to a first elongate frame member 440 of the top wall track 80, 435 (seen in cross-section) by an intersection connector 355 (see Fig 9) such that the top wall track 80, 435 is located below and orientated perpendicular to the bottom chord truss member 75, 435 in a similar configuration to the intersection subassembly 265E (see Fig 9). The outer wall stud 85, 145 (seen in top view) is connected to a second elongate frame member 445 of the top wall track by a right angled elongate connector 190 (see Fig 3D) such that the outer wall stud 85, 145 depends perpendicularly from the top wall track 80, 435, in a similar configuration to the right angled subassembly 265 (see Fig 5). A second elongate frame member 445 of the top chord truss member 65, 435 (seen in sectional view) is connected to a first elongate frame member 440 of the bottom chord truss member 75, 435 by an inclining connector 190D (see Fig 10). A second connection portion 205D of the inclining connector 190D is engaged with the first elongate frame member 440 of the bottom chord truss member 75, 435 and a first connection portion 200D of the inclining connector 190D is engaged with the second elongate frame member 445 of the top chord truss member 65, 435 such that the top chord member 65, 435 is orientated generally longitudinally but at a slight incline in relation to the bottom chord member 75, 435. In this embodiment, the incline is approximately 30 degrees. In another embodiment, the incline is between 20 and 40 degrees. In another embodiment, the incline is between 0 and 90 degrees. In this embodiment, each floor portion 210D, 215D of the inclining connector 190D is fixed to respective elongate frame members 445, 440 of the respective chord members 65, 75 by a bolt 880. Optionally, a thicker steel stiffener (shown in phantom lines) may be used to strengthen the connector 190D, when required. Exterior and interior wall, ceiling and roof cladding 1015, 1020, 1022, 1035 are fitted accordingly (shown in phantom lines). In this embodiment, the ceiling cladding 1022 is suspended by virtue of its attachment to an underside of a second embodiment of a ceiling suspension fixture 855A. The ceiling suspension fixture 855A comprises an elongate frame member 865A having the form of an elongate frame member 145 as previously described, that is connected to the second elongate frame member 445 of the bottom chord truss member 75, 435 by an intersection connector 870A having the form of an intersection connector 335 as previously described, such that the elongate frame member 865A, 145 is suspended below and perpendicular to the bottom chord truss member 75, 435. The ceiling cladding is attached to an under-surface of the elongate frame member 865A, 145. A second ceiling suspension fixture 855A is used to attach a second ceiling cladding member 1022 located exterior to the building structure 15. The second ceiling suspension fixture 855A is connected to the second elongate frame member 445 of the top chord truss member 65, 435. A third and a fourth ceiling suspension fixture 855A are used to attach the roof cladding 1035 to the first elongate frame member 440 of the top chord truss member 65, 435. The third and fourth ceiling suspension fixture 855A are orientated in generally upturned relation to the first ceiling suspension fixture 855A such that the elongate frame member 865A, 145 and the roof cladding 1035 are located above the top chord truss member 65, 435.

Referring to Fig 25 and specifically to Fig 28, a junction 875A of an external wall to a roof truss of the building structure 15A is shown, having similar features to the junction 875 as previously described. The junction 875A further comprises the lightweight building block construction system 840 fitted to the wall substructure 25A of the structure 15A, a reinforcement beam 885 as window / door header and a building block screw 850 for securing wall building blocks 853 to the reinforcement beam 885. The window / door header cover block(seen in cross section) is connected to an outer wall stud 85A, 145 by a right angled connector 190, in a similar configuration to the right angled subassembly 265 (see Fig 5). The jamb detail is similar. The building block screw 850 is located through a building block 853, the reinforcement beam 885 and the right angled connector 190.

Referring to Figs 20 to 22, portions of a roof truss 55 of the building structure 15 (see Fig 1 ) are shown. Referring specifically to Fig 20, a junction 890 of the top chord truss member 65, 435 and a diagonal truss member 70 is shown. The diagonal truss member 70 takes the form of an elongate frame member 145 (see Fig 2D). The diagonal truss member 70, 145 is connected to the second elongate frame member 445 of the top chord truss member 65, 435 by an acute angled elongate connector 190F. The acute angled elongate connector 190F comprises a bridge portion 195F and two connection portions 200F, 205F, and may be formed from an embodiment of the basic elongate connector 185B. The acute angled elongate connector 190F is bent at a lateral line located on a floor 207F of the bridge portion 195F. In this embodiment, the angle is approximately 70 degrees and the two connection portions 200F, 205 are connected to the diagonal truss member 70, 145 and the top chord truss member 65, 435, such that the diagonal truss member 70, 145 depends from and makes an angle of approximately 70 degrees with the top chord truss member 65, 435. Ends 891 of side walls 160 of the diagonal truss member 70, 145 are formed at an angle such that the ends 891 flushly abut flanges 892 of the second elongate frame member 445 of the top chord truss member 65, 435. Referring specifically to Fig 21 , a junction 895 of the bottom chord truss member 75, 435 and two diagonal truss members 70, each taking the form of an elongate frame member 145 (see Fig 2D) is shown. The two diagonal truss members 70, 145 are both connected to the first elongate frame member 440 of the bottom chord truss member 75, 435 by a V-shaped elongate connector 190B (see Fig 7) in a configuration similar to the V-shaped subassembly 265B. The diagonal truss members 70, 145 are engaged with the two arms 330, 335 of the V-shaped elongate connector 190B such that they extend upwardly and angularly from the bottom chord truss member 75, 435.

Referring specifically to Fig 22, roof truss members at a ridge 900 of a roof truss 55 are shown. The ridge 900 comprises a junction of two top chord truss members 65, 435 and two diagonal truss members 70, 145. First elongate frame connectors 440 of the two top chord truss members 65, 435 are connected by a reflex angled elongate connector 190G. The reflex angled elongate connector 190G comprises a bridge portion 195G and two connection portions 200G, 205G, and may be formed from an embodiment of the basic elongate connector 185C (see Fig 3C). The reflex angled elongate connector 190G is bent at a lateral midline line located on a floor 207G of the bridge portion 195G at an angle of approximately 240 degrees. Thus, the two top chord truss members 65, 435 are connected such that they subtend an angle of 120 degrees underneath and form an angle of 240 degrees above. Ends 905 of the top chord truss members are formed at an angle such that they flushly abut one another. A diagonal truss member 70, 145 to connected to the second elongate frame member 445 of each of the two top chord truss members 65, 435 by an acute angled connector 190F. In this embodiment, the acute angled connector 190F forms an angle of approximately 60 degrees, and thus the diagonal truss members 70, 145 depend from the respective top chord truss member 65, 435 at an angle of 60 degrees. The channels 150 of the diagonal truss members 70, 145 face away from each other. Ends 910 of side walls 160 of each diagonal truss member 70, 145 are formed at an angle such that the ends 910 flushly abut flanges 915 of the second elongate frame member 445 of the respective top chord truss member 65, 435.

Referring to Figs 23 and 24, portions of a roof truss 55A the building structure 15A (see Fig 25) are shown. Referring specifically to Fig 23, roof truss members at a ridge 920 of a roof truss 55A are shown. The ridge 920 comprises a junction of two top chord truss members 65A, 435 and a vertical truss member 925 taking the form of a compound elongate beam 435 (see Fig 11 ). In Fig 23, only second elongate frame members 445 of the top chord truss members 65A, 435 are shown. First elongate frame members 440 of the top chord truss members 65A, 435 are not shown. Each elongate frame member 440, 445 of the vertical truss member 925, 435 is connected to the second elongate frame member 445 of a top chord truss member 65A, 435 by an acute angled elongate connector 190F. In this embodiment, each elongate connector 190F makes an angle of approximately 60 degrees. Thus the top chord truss members 65A, 435 descend to either side of the vertical truss member 925, 435 at an angle of approximately 60 degrees. An end 930 of each elongate frame member 440, 445 of the vertical truss member 925 is formed at an angle such that each end 930 flushly abuts flanges 935 of the second elongate frame member 445 of the respective top chord truss member 65A, 435.

Referring specifically to Fig 24, a junction 940 of roof truss members at a midpoint of a bottom chord truss member 75A is shown. The bottom chord truss member 75A takes the form of a compound elongate beam 435 (see Fig 11 ). Only a first elongate frame member

440 of the bottom chord truss member 75A, 435 is shown. A second elongate frame member

445 of the bottom chord truss member 75A, 435 is not shown. The first elongate frame member 440 of the bottom chord truss member 75A, 435 is connected to the vertical truss member 925, 435 and two diagonal truss members 7OA taking the form of elongate frame members 145 by two irregular-V-shaped elongate connectors 190C (see Fig 8). A base 335C of each irregular-V-shaped elongate connector 190C is engaged with the first elongate frame member 440 of the bottom chord truss member 75A, 435, such that the two irregular-V- shaped elongate connectors 190C mirror each other, second arms 330C of the irregular- V- shaped elongate connectors 190C being adjacent. The two elongate frame members 440, 445 of the vertical truss member 925, 435 are engaged with the two adjacent second arms 330C of the irregular- V-shaped elongate connectors 190C, such that the vertical truss member 925, 435 extends substantially perpendicularly upwardly from the bottom chord truss member 75A, 435. A first arm 325C of each irregular-V-shaped elongate connector 190C is engaged with a diagonal truss member 7OA, 145 such that the diagonal truss members 7OA, 145 each extend upwardly from the bottom chord truss member 75A, 435 and away from the vertical truss member 925, 435. An end 945 of each diagonal truss member 7OA, 145 is formed at an angle such that each end 945 flushly abuts flanges 950 of the first elongate frame member 440 of the bottom chord truss member 75A, 435. It should be noted in this description, that '"cladding" refers to any bulk material attached to a structure and the term "beam" should not be construed as being limited to a member supported at one or more discrete points. In the above description the term "beam" is used in a general sense to describe an elongate structural member.

In the above described embodiments of the cold formed steel frame system 10, 10A, the members are made of high strength cold formed steel. In particular, the various embodiments of the elongate connector 190 and the intersection connector 355 are made of high yield stress cold formed steel. It should be noted that the members may be made of a variety of other materials, for example steel or aluminium.

It is advantageous for high strength cold formed steel members to be used as this will result in the construction of the cold formed steel frame systems 10, 10A having greater strength and durability. In particular, the use of high yield stress cold formed steel (having a yield stress greater than 350 MPa) to form elongate connectors 190 to 190D fortifies the strength of joints formed using any of the elongate connectors 190 to 190D. It also allows the elongate connectors 190 to 190D to have better elastic recovery and spring-back characteristics under applied loads. It should be noted that the elastic recovery and spring- back characteristics of the elongate connectors 190 to 190D also depends on the strip thickness and the bend angle.

Advantageously, the frame construction system enables a structure such as a building to be modularly assembled from a combination of pre-formed constituent pieces. The building structures 15, 15A are two such examples. Referring generally to the elongate frame member 145, advantageously, the correspondence and snap-fit mechanical engagement of the elongate frame member 145 (and thus the compound elongate beams 435 to 435C) with various connectors, namely the embodiments of the elongate connectors 190 to 190D and the intersection connector 355, allow a structure to be formed securely with fewer fasteners.

In particular, the arrangement of the flanges 165 and lips 170 of the elongate frame member 145 is responsible for facilitating the secure engagement.

Furthermore, the engagement portions taking the form of embossments 155 engage with corresponding embossments 206, 420 on the connectors 190, 355 such that a fitted connector is substantially prevented from sliding relative to the respective elongate frame member 145. The embossments 155 may be used as markings to pre-indicate distances and dimensions without the use of other measurement tools.

The combination of the embossments 155 and the snap-fit engagement reduces the need for fasteners, thus potentially significantly reducing costs. Fasteners also often require the puncture of apertures to facilitate fastening, which damages the galvanised coatings of materials such as steel. Hence, the fewer fasteners required, the less damage is done to the coating of the material.

Advantageously, one type of member, namely the elongate frame member 145, can be used for different functionalities within the cold formed frame systems 10, 10A, thus potentially reducing manufacturing costs and possible wastage. This is a significant advantage over the prior art.

Referring to the various embodiments of the compound elongate beam 435, it is advantageous that beams for different functions within a structure may be assembled from two or more elongate frame members 145. For example, the compound elongate beam 435 may be used as an I-beam. In another example, portions of cladding may be received by the first and second elongate frame members 440C, 445C of the compound elongate beam 435C such that the cladding is attached to the structure. Elongate connectors 190 may be engaged with the third and fourth elongate frame members 466C, 480 to connect the compound elongate beam 435C to other beams or members of the structure. As the compound elongate beams 435 are modular assemblies of two or more elongate frame members 145, they do not require separate manufacture. Thus, attachments or connectors, such as the various embodiments of the elongate connector 190 to 190D and the intersection connector 355, that are designed to mechanically engage with the basic elongate frame members 145 will also correspondingly engage with compound elongate beams 435 comprising elongate frame members 145 of the same dimensions.

Advantageously, the embodiments of the compound elongate beams 435 are each comparatively stronger and more rigid than a single elongate frame member 145. Referring to the alternative I-beam 510, it is advantageously able to be formed from a single folded blank. I-beams have versatile applications and many well known advantages including strength in the construction of structures. The alternative I-beam 510 may be connected to other beams or members by corresponding connectors on either or both sides.

Referring to the various embodiments of the elongate connector 190 to 190D, they may advantageously be used to connect other structural members and thus form a structure.

Standardisation of the dimensions of connection portions 200, 205 and the corresponding portions on structural members allows a variety of modular assemblies to be assembled for different functions within the structure. Alternatively, the elongate connector 190 may take different configurations and dimensions as is suitable for a particular application or joint. For example, larger elongate connectors 190 may be used to connect flooring members 120,

130, 135 and smaller elongate connectors 190 may be used to connect wall members 80,

85, 90, 100, 105, 115.

Referring to the specific structure of the elongate connectors 190, the lips 208 of the bridge portion(s) 195 increase the strength and rigidity of the elongate connector 190, such that each bridge portion(s) 195 is less likely to break, buckle or bend under applied loads.

The elongate connectors 190 are adapted to mechanically engage with the channels 150 of elongate frame members 145, and the wider spacing at the top ends of the side walls 220, 225 allows the connection portions 200, 205 to be more securely nested and wedged within the channels 150. The side walls 220, 225 of the elongate connector impose outwardly directed forces on the side walls 160 of the channel 150 of the elongate frame member 145 and thus the connector is tightly lodged within the channel, substantially restricting movement relative to the channel 150. The top edges of the side walls 220, 225 of the elongate connector 190 fit and are substantially locked into respective elongate overhanging recesses 175 such that the elongate connector 190 is substantially stopped from being displaced upwardly out of the channel 150 of the elongate frame member 145.

The spaced embossments 206 of the elongate connectors 190 correspond to the spaced embossments 155 of the elongate frame members 145 and engagement of the embossments in use substantially prevents the elongate connectors from sliding relative to the elongate frame members 145. The apertures 245 accommodate the use of fasteners wherever required, for example to further fix elongate connectors 190 to elongate frame members 145.

The different embodiments of the elongate connectors 190 enable elongate frame members 145 to be connected to other elongate frame members at various angles, including acute, obtuse, reflex and right angles, which increases the range of functionality within a structure. For example, the elongate frame members and elongate connectors 190 may be used to create roof trusses 55 (see Figs 22 and 23).

The elongate connector 190D allows three elongate frame members 145 to be connected together in different orientations and may be used for example to form roof trusses 55 (see Fig 24).

The ability of the elongate connectors 190 to 190D and the intersection connector 355 to securely connect two or three elongate frame members 145 (or other compound members comprising elongate frame members 145) enables the formation of two-directional or three- directional rigid joints that are structurally strong enough to minimise, or in many cases, eliminate the need for the use of additional fasteners. This allows the assembly of portions of cold formed steel frames to be assembled on-site or off-site as convenience requires. The simplicity of the assembly may also reduce or eliminate the need for skilled labour and for specialised tools. For example, if the elongate connectors 190 to 190D or the intersection connector 355 were made of relatively heavy gauges of steel, the use of a small lever bar may be sufficient to apply the necessary force to snap-fit the elongate connectors 190 to 190D or the intersection connector 355 into the elongate frame members 145.

The various embodiments of the subassembly 265, examples of which are portrayed in Figs 4, 5, 7 and 9, may be used to perform different functions within a structure and form strong junctions. For example, the intersection connector 355 allows two elongate frame members 145 to be connected in perpendicular relation.

The specific features of the intersection connector 355 have similar functions and advantages to the features of each of the embodiments of the elongate connector 190 to 190D. The lips 430 of each of the bridge portion 370 of the intersection connector 355 advantageously increases the strength and rigidity of the bridge portion 370, such that it is less likely to break, buckle or bend under applied loads. Advantageously, each connection portion 360, 365 is adapted to mechanically engage with a channel 150 of an elongate frame member 145, and the wider spacing at the top ends of the side walls 385, 390 allows the connection portion 360, 365 to be more securely nested and wedged within the channel 150. The side walls 385, 390 of each of the connection portions 360, 365 of the intersection connector 355 impose outwardly directed forces on the side walls 160 of the channel 150 of the elongate frame member 145 when fitted. Thus, the connection portion 360, 365 is tightly lodged within the channel 145 and movement relative to the channel 145 is substantially restricted. Furthermore, the top edges of the side walls 385, 390 fit and are substantially locked into respective elongate overhanging recesses 175 of the elongate frame member 145 such that the intersection connector 355 is substantially stopped from being displaced upwardly out of the channel 150 of the elongate frame member 145.

The spaced embossments 420 of the intersection connector 355 correspond to the spaced embossments 155 of the elongate frame member 145 and engagement of the embossments 155, 420 in use substantially prevents the intersection connector 355 from sliding within the channel 150 of the elongate frame member 145. The apertures 425 accommodate the use of fasteners wherever required.

The slot 645, 720 of each embodiment of the elongate cladding support member 610, 660, 665 allows an edge of a piece of cladding to be securely engaged. Advantageously, pairs of elongate cladding support members 610, 660, 665 can securely support a piece of cladding between them. The elongate cladding support members 610, 660, 665 may each also be formed from a folded blank.

Advantageously, the lip 640, 700 of each embodiment of the elongate cladding support member 610, 660, 665 substantially prevents a received edge of cladding from slipping as the lip 640, 700 presses into a top surface of the cladding.

The apertures 650, 725 of each embodiment of the elongate cladding support member 610, 660, 665 accommodate the use of fasteners wherever required. For example, the apertures 725 may be required in the second embodiment 660, 665 to secure cladding to the flat side of the wall 680, as it does not have a slot. The apertures 650, 720 may also be used in either embodiment 610, 660, 665 to more securely engage cladding within the respective slot 650, 725.

An advantage of the first embodiment of the elongate cladding support member 610 is that while only one side of the wall comprises the slot 645 for receiving cladding, an edge of a piece of cladding may still be rested on the portion of the base 615 that protrudes from the slot-free side of the wall 620 and affixed to the wall 620 of the elongate cladding support 610. Thus the elongate cladding support member 610 is able to support cladding on either or both sides of the wall 620. An advantage of the second embodiment of the elongate cladding support member 660, 665 is that one side of the wall comprises a slot 720 and the other side is a substantially flat surface. The flat surface may abut and/or be attached to other flat surfaces in use. For example, two elongate cladding support members 660, 665 may be joined in wall-to-wall relation to form a compound elongate cladding support beam 655 that comprises slots 720 to either side and is thus able to securely receive the edges of pieces of cladding members to either or both sides and may be used as the centre floor joists 130 to support pieces of floor cladding between itself and adjacent compound elongate cladding support beams 655 or adjacent elongate cladding support members 610. The pole sleeves 730, 730A, 730B allows members to be connected to a pole and thus to be supported by one or more poles. For example, an elongate cladding support member 610 or a compound elongate cladding support beam 655 may be supported or suspended substantially horizontally between two poles by attachment of each end of the elongate cladding support member 610 or compound elongate cladding support beam 655 to a flange 740, 741 or a set of flanges 785, 790 of the respective pole sleeve 730, 730A, 730B.

Advantageously, the apertures 765, 815, 820 of the flanges 740, 741 or set of flanges 785, 790 facilitate the use of fasteners to attach members to the respective flange 740, 741 of set of flanges 785, 790.

Advantageously, different embodiments of the pole sleeve 730, 730A, 730B are be adapted to receive poles with rectangular cross-sections or circular cross-sections.

Advantageously, the structures 15, 15A may be readily assembled from the elements (e.g. members, connectors etc.) previously described and can form a steel framework. The elements may be prefabricated, and thus the assembly of each structure 15, 15A is potentially less labour-intensive and more cost-effective than conventional steel frame construction. Several of the components, such as the compound elongate beams 435A to 435C are modular arrangements of basic elements, such as the elongate frame members 145, and may be formed on site when required. Due to the correspondence of connection of the basic and modular elements, they may be connected using the same type of connectors. Moreover, the shape and dimensions of the connectors may be altered for different types and angles of joints. Furthermore, many of the elements that may be formed from blanks may be readily manufactured on a large scale in a cost-efficient manner.

It should also be noted that the use of embossments as described above increases the load carrying capacity of the component or structure incorporating the embossments. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the embossments may be of any suitable shape, pattern, arrangement or spacing. In one embodiment, the embossments take the form of corrugations.

In another embodiment, the channel flanges (e.g. 165) are folded over the connector lips (e.g. 230, 235) using pliers or a seaming tong to eliminate any need for an additional fastener(s) to secure the engagement against uplifting forces.

While the invention has been described with reference to a number of preferred embodiments it should be appreciated that the invention can be embodied in many other forms.

In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially", "peripherally",

"upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

Industrial Applicability

It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the construction industry.

Claims

Claims The claims defining the invention are as follows:

1. An elongate frame member for a frame construction system, comprising: a channel having a floor, two side walls extending upwardly from opposing edges of the floor, and two flanges extending inwardly from top edges of the respective side walls, and a plurality of spaced embossments located on the floor.

2. An elongate frame member as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the cross-sectional shape of the channel is generally C-shaped.

3. An elongate frame member as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the two flanges extend substantially perpendicularly to the respective side walls.

4. An elongate frame member as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the flanges comprises a lip along its free edge.

5. An elongate frame member as claimed in claim 4, wherein each lip is configured to lie adjacent to an undersurface of the respective flange.

6. An elongate frame member as claimed in claim 4 or 5, wherein each side wall and its respective flange and lip form an elongate overhanging recess.

7. An elongate frame member as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, made substantially of steel.

8. An elongate frame member as claimed in claim 7, made substantially of cold formed steel.

9. An elongate frame member substantially as herein described with reference to Figs 2A to 2D.

10. A compound elongate beam comprising: a first and a second elongate frame member as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, each elongate frame member having the same dimensions, wherein the undersurfaces of the floors of the first and second elongate frame members are attached to each other such that the channels are superposed, and such that the cross-section of the compound elongate beam is generally l-shaped.

1 1. A compound elongate beam as claimed in claim 10 further comprising: a third elongate frame member as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the undersurface of the floor of the third elongate frame member is attached to outside surfaces of adjacent first side walls of the first and second elongate frame members, such that the channels of the elongate frame members are longitudinally aligned.

12. A compound elongate beam as claimed in claim 11 further comprising: a fourth elongate frame member as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the undersurface of the floor of the fourth elongate frame member is attached to outside surfaces of adjacent second side walls of the first and second elongate frame members, such that the channels of the elongate frame members are longitudinally aligned.

13. A compound elongate beam as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 12, made substantially of steel.

14. A compound elongate beam as claimed in claim 13, made substantially of cold formed steel.

15. A compound elongate beam substantially as herein described with reference to Figs 1 1 , 12, 13 or 14.

16. An I-beam comprising: an Z-shaped cross-section beam component having a floor, a first wall extending from a first side edge of the floor in a first direction substantially perpendicular to the floor and a second wall extending from a second side edge of the floor in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the floor and substantially opposite to the first direction, the first wall having a first flange extending from its free edge in a direction substantially parallel to the floor and towards the second side edge, the second wall having a second flange extending from its free edge in a direction substantially parallel to the floor and towards the first side edge, the floor comprising at least one engagement portion; and a first and a second elongate cap, each elongate cap having two elongate flanges extending from opposing side edges, the arrangement being such that the first elongate cap is attached to a outer surface of the first wall of the Z-shaped cross-section beam component and the second elongate cap is attached to a outer surface of the second wall of the Z-shaped cross- section beam component and the flanges of the first and second elongate caps extending inwardly such that the first and second elongate caps are superposed.

17. An I-beam as claimed in claim 16, made substantially of steel.

18. An I-beam as claimed in claim 17, made substantially of cold formed steel.

19. An I-beam substantially as herein described with reference to Fig 12A.

20. An elongate connector for a frame construction system comprising: at least one bridge portion having a floor; at least two connection portions, one connection portion being located at either end of each bridge portion and in end-to-end relation with the bridge portion, each connection portion having a floor and two side walls extending upwardly from opposing side edges of the floor; and a plurality of spaced embossments located on the floor of the or each of the bridge portions and each of the connection portions,

21. the arrangement being such that each connection portion is adapted to mechanically engage with an elongate frame member as claimed in claim 6.An elongate connector as claimed in claim 20, wherein each bridge portion has two lips located on respective opposing side edges of the floor, the lips being adapted to increase the longitudinal stiffness of the bridge portion.

22. An elongate connector as claimed in 21 , wherein the lips are integral with the bridge portion.

23. An elongate connector as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 22, having a generally C-shaped cross-section, such that the two side walls are more widely spaced apart at their top ends than at their bottom ends.

24. An elongate connector as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein each connection portion further comprises a wall lip located at the top end of the each side wall.

25. An elongate connector as claimed in claim 24, wherein each wall lip is configured to lie adjacent to an inner surface of the respective side wall.

26. An elongate connector as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 25, further comprising a plurality of apertures located between one or more pairs of adjacent spaced embossments.

27. An elongate connector as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 26, wherein at least one of the connection portions is connected to at least one of the bridge portions at an angle other than 180 degrees.

28. An elongate connector as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 27, wherein the side walls of each connection portion of the elongate connector are adapted to fit between the side walls of the channel of the elongate frame member and the top ends of the side walls are adapted to snap-fit into respective elongate overhanging recesses of the elongate frame member.

29. An elongate connector as claimed in claim 28, wherein at least one of the spaced embossments of the elongate connector is adapted to engage with at least one of the spaced embossments of the elongate frame member to substantially prevent the elongate connector from sliding within the channel of the elongate frame member in a longitudinal direction.

30. An elongate connector as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 29, wherein the at least one bridge portion is a first and second bridge portion and the at least two connection portions are a first end connection portion, a second end connection portion and an intermediate connection portion, the first end connection portion and the first bridge portion forming a first arm, the second end connection portion and the second bridge portion forming a second arm, such that the first and second arms extend at an angle from opposite ends of the intermediate connection portion.

31. An elongate connector as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 30, made substantially of steel.

32. An elongate connector as claimed in claim 31 , made substantially of cold formed steel.

33. An elongate connector substantially as herein described with reference to Figs 3A to 8 and Fig 10.

34. A subassembly of a frame construction system comprising: a first and a second elongate frame member as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, and an elongate connector as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 33, wherein the at least one bridge portion of the elongate connector is one bridge portion and the at least two connection portions of the elongate connector are two connection portions, wherein the first elongate frame member is mechanically engaged with the first connection portion and the second elongate frame member is mechanically engaged with the second connection portion.

35. A subassembly as claimed in claim 34, wherein a first end of each side wall of the second elongate frame member abuts a top end of the respective side wall of the first elongate frame member.

36. A subassembly as claimed in claim 35, wherein a first end of each side wall of the second elongate frame member is angled and abuts a top end of the respective side wall of the first elongate frame member.

37. A subassembly of a frame construction system comprising: a first, second and third elongate frame member as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10 and an elongate connector as claimed in claim 30, wherein the first elongate frame member is mechanically engaged with the first end connection portion, the second elongate frame member is mechanically engaged with the second end connection portion, and the third elongate frame member is mechanically engaged with the intermediate connection portion, such that a first end of each side wall of each of the first and second elongate frame members abuts a top end of a respective side wall of the third elongate frame member.

38. A subassembly as claimed in claim 37, wherein a first end of each side wall of at least one of the first and second elongate frame members is angled, such that each of the angled ends abuts and is flush with a top end of a respective side wall of the third elongate frame member.

39. A subassembly substantially as herein described with reference to Figs 7, 8 and 10.

40. An intersection connector comprising: a first and second connection portion, each connection portion having a floor and two side walls, the side walls of the first connection portion extending substantially upwardly from opposing side edges of the floor and the side walls of the second connection portion extending substantially downwardly from opposing side edges of the floor, a bridge portion adapted to fix the second connection portion in spaced, perpendicular and elevated relation to the first connection portion, and at least one engagement portion located on the floor of each of the connection portions, wherein each of the first and second connection portions are adapted to mechanically engage with an elongate frame member as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9.

41. An intersection connector as claimed in claim 40, wherein the bridge portion comprises a first bridge section and a second bridge section, a bottom end of the first bridge section being perpendicularly connected to an end of the floor of the first connection portion, a side of the first bridge section being perpendicularly connected to a side of the second bridge section, and a top end of the second bridge section being perpendicularly connected to an end of the floor of the second connection portion.

42. An intersection connector as claimed in claim 41 , wherein each bridge section has lips located on its free edges to increase the rigidity of the bridge sections.

43. An intersection connector as claimed in any one of claims 40 to 42, wherein the cross-sectional shape of each connection portion is generally C-shaped, such that the two side walls are more widely spaced apart at their top ends than at their bottom ends.

44. An intersection connector as claimed in any one of claims 40 to 43, wherein each connection portion further comprises a lip located at the free end of each side wall.

45. An intersection connector as claimed in claim 44, wherein each lip is configured to lie adjacent to an inner surface of the respective side wall.

46. An intersection connector as claimed in any one of claims 40 to 45, wherein the at least one engagement portion is a plurality of spaced embossments.

47. An intersection connector as claimed in any one of claims 40 to 46, further comprising a plurality of apertures located between one or more adjacent engagement portions.

48. An intersection connector as claimed in any one of claims 40 to 47, that is adapted to mechanically engage with an elongate frame member as claimed in claim 6.

49. An intersection connector as claimed in claim 40, wherein the side walls of each connection portion of the intersection connector are adapted to fit between the side walls of the channel of the elongate frame member and the free ends of the side walls are adapted to snap-fit into respective elongate overhanging recesses of the elongate frame member.

50. An intersection connector as claimed in any one of claims 40 to 49, wherein at least one of the engagement portions of the intersection connector is adapted to engage with at least one of the engagement portions of the elongate frame member to substantially prevent the intersection connector from sliding within the channel of the elongate frame member in a longitudinal direction.

51. An intersection connector as claimed in any one of claims 40 to 50, made substantially of steel.

52. An intersection connector as claimed in claim 51 , made substantially of cold formed steel.

53. An intersection connector substantially as herein described with reference to Fig 9.

54. An elongate cladding support member comprising: a base, a wall and a flange, the wall extending substantially perpendicularly upwardly from the base, the flange extending perpendicularly outwardly from a top edge of the wall and the base having at least one side portion extending outwardly in the same direction as the flange, such that the arrangement of the side portion of the base, the flange and the wall forms a slot having a substantially C-shaped cross-section, the slot being adapted to receive an edge of a piece of cladding.

55. An elongate cladding support member as claimed in claim 54, wherein the base has an open loop rectangular cross-section and the wall extends upwardly from a free edge of the loop.

56. An elongate cladding support member as claimed in claim 54 or 55 further comprising a lip extending substantially perpendicularly downwardly from a free edge of the flange.

57. An elongate cladding support member as claimed in any one of claims 54 to 56, wherein the wall comprises a plurality of apertures.

58. An elongate cladding support member as claimed in any one of claims 54 to 57, wherein the wall extends upwardly from substantially a longitudinal midline of the base.

59. An elongate cladding support member as claimed in claim 54, wherein the base has a base floor extending perpendicularly outward from a bottom edge of the wall in the same direction as the flange, a base wall extending perpendicularly upward from an outer edge of the base floor, and a suspension wall extending perpendicularly inwardly from a top edge of the base wall, such that the suspension wall, the wall and the flange define the slot.

60. An elongate cladding support member as claimed in any one of claims 54 to 59, made substantially of steel.

61. An elongate cladding support member as claimed in claim 60, made substantially of cold formed steel.

62. An elongate cladding support member substantially as herein described with reference to Fig 15.

63. A compound elongate cladding support beam comprising two elongate cladding support members as claimed in any one of claims 59 to 62, joined wall-to-wall in mirroring relation.

64. A compound elongate cladding support beam as claimed in claim 63, made substantially of steel.

65. A compound elongate cladding support beam as claimed in claim 64, made substantially of cold formed steel.

66. A compound elongate cladding support beam substantially as herein described with reference to Fig 16.

67. A pole sleeve for connecting a member to a pole, comprising: a hollow body adapted to receive a pole, the hollow body comprising at least one pole attachment portion adapted to substantially stop the pole sleeve from sliding relative to the pole, and at least one flange extending outwardly from the body, the or each flange having at least one member attachment portion.

68. A pole sleeve as claimed in claim 67, wherein the or each member attachment portion is an aperture through the at least one flange.

69. A pole sleeve as claimed in claim 67 or 68, wherein the or each pole attachment portion is a plurality of apertures.

70. A pole sleeve as claimed in any one of claims 67 to 69, wherein the hollow body has a rectangular cross-section.

71. A pole sleeve as claimed in any one of claims 67 to 70, wherein the hollow body has a circular cross-section.

72. A pole sleeve as claimed in any one of claims 67 to 71 , wherein the at least one flange is a pair of side flanges located such that they lie adjacent to respective lateral sides of the member in use, and a lower flange located such that it lies adjacent to an underside of the member in use.

73. A pole sleeve as claimed in any one of claims 67 to 72, made substantially of steel.

74. A pole sleeve as claimed in claim 73, made substantially of cold formed steel.

75. A pole sleeve substantially as herein described with reference to Figs 29 to 31.

76. A structure comprising two or more elongate frame members as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9 and one or more elongate connectors as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 33, wherein one of the one or more elongate connectors connects at least two of the two or more elongate frame members.

77. A structure as claimed in claim 76, further comprising one or more compound elongate beams, as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 15, spaced apart such that the channels receive opposing portions of a cladding member in use.

78. A structure as claimed in claim 76 or 77, further comprising one or more elongate I- beams as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 19, located such that the or each I-beam is engaged with a portion of at least one cladding member in use.

79. A structure as claimed in any one of claims 76 to 78, further comprising one or more subassemblies as claimed in any one of claims 36 to 41.

80. A structure as claimed in any one of claims 76 to 79, further comprising one or more intersection connectors as claimed in any one of claims 40 to 53.

81. A structure as claimed in any one of claims 76 to 80, further comprising one or more elongate cladding support members as claimed in any one of claims 54 to 62, located at a floor section such that the or each elongate cladding support member receives an edge of at least one floor cladding member in use.

82. A structure as claimed in any one of claims 76 to 81 , further comprising one or more compound elongate cladding support beams as claimed in any one of claims 63 to 66, located at a floor section such that the or each elongate cladding support member receives an edge of at least two floor cladding member in use.

83. A structure as claimed in any one of claims 76 to 82, further comprising one or more pole sleeves as claimed in any one of claims 67 to 75, located such that the or each pole sleeve connects an elongate cladding support member as claimed in any one of claims 54 to 62 and/or a compound elongate cladding support member as claimed in any one of claims 63 to 66, to at least one support pole.

84. A structure substantially as herein described with reference to Fig 1.

85. A structure substantially as herein described with reference to Fig 25.

86. A blank adapted to be formed into the elongate frame member of any one of claims 1 to 9.

87. A blank substantially as herein described with reference to Fig 2A.

88. A blank adapted to be formed into the I-beam of any one of claims 16 to 19.

89. A blank adapted to be formed into the elongate connector of any one of claims 20 to 33.

90. A blank substantially as herein described with reference to Fig 3A.

91. A blank adapted to be formed into the intersection connector of any one of claims 40 to 53.

92. A blank adapted to be formed into the elongate cladding support member of any one of claims 54 to 62.

93. A subassembly of a frame construction system comprising one or more horizontally orientated elongate frame members as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, one or more vertically orientated elongate frame members as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9 and one or more elongate connectors as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 33, wherein the or at least one of the horizontally orientated elongate frame members is connected to the or at least one of the vertically orientated elongate frame members by virtue of the or at least one of the elongate connectors.

94. An elongate frame member for a frame construction system, comprising a channel having a smooth floor, two side walls extending upwardly from opposing edges of the floor, and two flanges extending inwardly from top edges of the respective side walls.

95. Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of elongate frame members for a frame construction system in accordance with any one of claims 1 to

9.

96. Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of compound elongate beams in accordance with any one of claims 10 to 15.

97. Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of I-beams in accordance with any one of claims 16 to 19.

98. Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of elongate connectors in accordance with any one of claims 20 to 33.

99. Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of subassemblies of a frame construction system in accordance with any one of claims 34 to 39.

100. Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of intersection connectors in accordance with any one of claims 40 to 53.

101. Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of elongate cladding support members in accordance with any one of claims 54 to 62.

102. Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of compound elongate cladding support beams in accordance with any one of claims 63 to 66.

103. Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of pole sleeves in accordance with any one of claims 67 to 75.

104. Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of structures in accordance with any one of claims 76 to 85.

105. Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of blanks in accordance with any one of claims 86 to 92.

106. Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of subassemblies of a frame construction system in accordance with claim 93.

107. Carbon credits created or otherwise arising from the manufacture of elongate frame members for a frame construction system in accordance with claim 94.