BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 0001 1. Field of the Invention 0002 The present invention relates generally to an apparatus and method for use in construction of a press box. Press boxes are typically employed at football, soccer, track or racing stadiums. More particularly, though not exclusively, the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for constructing such press boxes in modular fashion. 0003 2. Problems in the Art 0004 As is noted in U.S. Pat. No. 6,457,281 to Teron, the construction industry has been relatively slow in adopting new and developing technology. Generally, the construction industry has remained very labor intensive and of a handicraft nature. The end result is that construction projects are still expensive endeavors in terms of both money and time. 0005 The Teron patent, mentioned above, attempts to overcome the labor and time intensive nature of the construction industry through the use of pre-cast concrete monolithic units. While such units can be cast in a variety of shapes and sizes, each casting forms a solid structural wall that is not easily prone to adaptation. For example, the use of windows or doors requires separate in-fill panels as such cannot be readily integrated into a pre-cast structure of concrete. Therefore, it is desirable to have a modular building system in which various wall structures, including doors and windows, can be easily added. 0006 In the world of spectator events, press boxes are ideally located above the area of action. For example, in a high school football field setting, the press box is usually situated to one side of the field above all of the bleachers. Many press boxes also have more than one level from which to view the activity of interest. For these and other reasons, it is desirable to have modular units which are stackable without the need for additional supporting structures. 0007 Whether a press box is used for a football, soccer, track, or other sporting event, several common features are desirable. For example, every press box will need some sort of viewing area as well as a plurality of counters, tables, chairs and other features typically used by the occupants thereof. Because the features of the press box do not tend to vary greatly whether the press box is used for football, soccer, or in conjunction with any other sporting arena, it is desirable to have a modular unit for constructing press boxes that easily incorporates many of the standard and desirable features of press boxes in use today. 0008 Many arenas in use today are built with the assistance of public funds. Public funding is typically only awarded after a bidding process. During the bidding process, price, efficiency, and quality of the end product are of prime concern. It is therefore desirable to be able to offer a press box and method of constructing the same that minimizes production costs, increases production efficiency, and can be easily adapted to accommodate all of the customers demands. There is therefore a need for an apparatus and method of constructing a press box which avoids these and other problems. 0009 Features of the Invention 0010 A general feature of the present invention is the provision of an apparatus and method for constructing a press box which overcomes the problems found in the prior art. 0011 A further feature of the present invention is the provision of an apparatus and method for constructing a press box which is easily adaptable for use in many different arenas. 0012 Another feature of the present invention is the provision of an apparatus and method for constructing a press box which allows the press box to be easily customized for any particular customers desires. 0013 A still further feature of the present invention is the provision of an apparatus and method for constructing a press box, which allows the press box to include windows, doors, balconies, benches, seats and other features at a variety of locations. 0014 A further feature of the present invention is the provision of an apparatus and method for constructing a press box, which uses modular units. 0015 Another feature of the present invention is the provision of an apparatus and method for constructing a press box which incorporates modular units that are stackable. 0016 A still further feature of the present invention is the provision of an apparatus and method for constructing a press box which simplifies the on-site construction process. 0017 Another feature of the present invention is the provision of an apparatus and method for constructing a press box which minimizes assembly time. 0018 A still further feature of the present invention is the provision of an apparatus and method for constructing a press box which minimizes construction costs. 0019 Another feature of the present invention is the provision of an apparatus and method for constructing a press box which allows additions to be made to existing structures easily. 0020 These, as well as other features and advantages of the present invention, will become apparent from the following specification and claims.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 0021 The present invention generally comprises an apparatus and method for constructing a press box through the use of a plurality of press box modules. In one embodiment, a plurality of press box modules are formed offsite. Each press box module generally includes a box-like frame having a number of structural supports built therein. Preferably, each press box module is of a standardized size and shape such that one module may be easily stacked upon another module in a block like fashion. 0022 When assembled, each module preferably includes a plurality of steel columns or steel tubes at its corners. The steel columns are connected to one another by steel beams which may be secured to the columns through welding, screws, or any other well known method. Each column is preferably topped with a connector plate that acts as both a supporting platform and a means for connecting various modules in a vertical arrangement. Each module also includes a plurality of side beams that provides structural support. Each beam is preferably half of an I-beam or generally C-shaped. This presents the outer edge of the module with a flat surface. By keeping the outer surfaces flat, beams in different modules can be easily connected by including a plurality of corresponding holes in each beam and securing the beams there through. Securement can be performed with nuts and bolts, welding or any other known securing means. 0023 In another embodiment, construction is further simplified by using steel tubing for both the columns and beams. The added strength associated with the use of steel tubing allows construction of the modules to be done with minimal reinforcing materials. This allows for an open cross-section and thereby provides limitless opportunity for walk ways, placement of doors, windows, benches, electrical fittings and other desirable interior appointments. Using a plurality of steel tubing also minimizes the variety of materials needed, allowing for increased efficiency in both ordering and construction. These modules, formed primarily of steel tubing, can be secured to one another using welding, nuts and bolts or any other known securing means. 0024 Using either of the above mentioned embodiments, the modules can be rapidly assembled and stacked to form a press box of any desirable shape or size. Because easily modifiable framing elements are used instead of pre-cast structures, various elements are easily added to a press box module. For example, door jambs can be created using L-arm structural steel members, aluminum framing, or wood. In a similar fashion, window sills can be arranged to accommodate a variety of window sizes and shapes without the need to alter the pre-existing box frame. Each of these elements may be secured to the box frame through tack welding of the pieces directly or of suitable connector pieces. 0025 Each box frame also preferably includes flooring at a pre-determined and consistent level in each box frame. The flooring is generally formed from a plurality of flooring joist secured between the flooring beams by plurality of connector tabs. The flooring joist may be made of wood or metal or even adapted to support concrete slabs. In a similar manner, ceiling joist preferably run along the top of the box frame. 0026 After the flooring construction is completed, a variety of built-in componentry can be added. For example, if the customer desires a countertop underneath the window or viewing area, a counter can be pre-installed. Additionally, electrical conduit including a plurality of electrical boxes and switchboxes at desired locations may be inserted before wall finishing is completed 0027 On the top of the uppermost press box module, it is typically desirable to include a roof structure. The roof structure or roof module may be formed from either a column and beam or the steel tubing arrangement. In the column and beam arrangement, the roof module preferably includes a plurality of connector plates corresponding to the connector plates on the top of the press box module. This allows for nut and bolt connections to be easily made. Alternatively, in the steel tubing arrangement, the roof module may be easily welded to the tubing of the press box module below. Either arrangement can be secured together and to the corresponding box module below using any known method. 0028 Pre-assembling the roof module allows it to be easily connected with minimal onsite customization. Each roof module may include a roof that is angled at a pre-determined level and generally includes a plurality of roofing beams or additional tubes having connector tabs secured thereto. Between the roofing beams or tubes are a plurality of roofing struts that support the actual roofing material. By connecting the roof beams or tubes between two roof columns or additional tubes of varying heights, the roof angle can be controlled. 0029 Additional structures may be added to the outside of the press box modules, including a staircase for upper level access, and balconies if outdoor viewing is desirable. Both the balconies and the staircases may be easily bolted or otherwise connected to each press box module as desired. Balconies may be preinstalled before all of the modules are assembled into the final press box. Once modules are assembled or stacked, a balcony accessible in one module may be supplementally supported through a beam connection to a lower module. Additional structural supports may be used throughout the modules, including gusset plates with corresponding bracing rods. These keep the modules in tension and therefore minimize the amount of structural flex that may be inherent in each box frame. 0030 Once all of the individual modules are assembled, standard finishing materials such as drywall, carpeting, lighting, etc. may be applied to give the interior of the press box the desired appearance. Further, after module assembly is complete, siding material may be added to give the outside of the press box a finished appearance.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 0031 The various features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments of the same wherein references made to drawings including: 0032 FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the modular press box in assembled form as would be installed at an arena. 0033 FIG. 2 is a front view of the press box module assembly of FIG. 1. 0034 FIG. 3 is an exploded view of one embodiment of the press box module assembly showing individual modules separated from one another. 0035 FIG. 4 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the press box module assembly showing individual modules separated from one another. 0036 FIG. 5 is a side view of a typical roof tube, ceiling tube or flooring tube to which connector tabs have been installed. 0037 FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the sidewall of one embodiment of a press box module in finished form. 0038 FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the connection between one embodiment of the roof module and one embodiment of the press box module. 0039 FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the flooring installed in a press box module.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 0040 Referring now to FIG. 1, there is illustrated a perspective view of the modular press box 10 installed in conjunction with a series of bleachers 12 at a stadium 14. The press box 10 is preferably made from a variety of steel structures, including steel tubes, beams, columns, L-arm members, plates, brackets, rods, etc. Alternatively, other materials, such as aluminum, wood, composites, or plastic materials may be substituted as desired so long as the strength and integrity of the press box 10 is not compromised. As is shown in FIG. 1, the press box 10 is built up of a variety of press box modules 16. The modules 16 may be arranged to provide an elongated structure with one or more floors as shown. 0041 A typical press box 10 is placed in an elevated position to allow the members of the press, announcers, coaching staff, and other individuals the desired advantage point. Any number of press box modules 16 may be used until the desired height is reached. Alternatively, the press box modules 16 and the press box 10 in its entirety may be elevated on a supporting platform or base structure, so long as the desired advantage point is reached. A preferred supporting platform (not shown) is constructed of steel beams or columns which are reinforced using a plurality of gusset plates and bracing rods. As the typical vantage point is an elevated one, stairs 18 may be secured to one or more press box modules 16 so that access to the press box 10 may be had from ground level. Alternatively, an elevator (not shown) may be assembled and secured as desired. 0042 Referring now to FIG. 2, each press box module 16 may include a balcony 20 secured thereto. Each press box module 16 may be designed to include its own balcony 20, to have no balcony 20, or to have a balcony 20 that connects with the balconies 20 of other modules 16. Also shown in FIGS. 1-4 are a plurality of roof modules 22. By stacking the individual press box modules 16 in the desired arrangement and securing roof modules 22 on the uppermost press box module 16, the desired final shape of the press box 10 can be realized. 0043 As many sporting events have a very limited off-season time period, it is desirable to keep on-site assembly time to a minimum. By using preformed press box modules 16 in conjunction with preformed roof modules 22, on-site assembly time can be easily managed and minimized. Thus, a module press box 10 can be easily assembled during the off-season time available causing minimal inconvenience to the purchasing customer. 0044 As is shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, each of the modules 16 may be formed by creating a box-like frame structure. For example, FIG. 3 illustrates that square steel tubing, preferably inch think, 8 inch by 8 inch steel tubing, is using to form a plurality of columns 24 placed at the corners of the box-like frame structure. Each of the columns 24 are connected to one another through the use of a plurality of beams 26. The beams 26 are preferably generally C-shaped as shown. A cross-sectional view of one such beam 26 is shown in FIG. 6. 0045 Additionally, beam support brackets (not shown) may be secured between the beam 26 and the column 24 to provide additional structural strength if needed. The support brackets are preferably steel plates that are simply welded in place once the beam 26 has been secured to the column 24. The beam 26 may be secured to the column 24 through welding, bracketry, or any other known method. Additionally, when it is known a customer will not desire to passthrough the beam 26 and column 24 arrangement, i.e. that it will be a solid wall, additional bracing materials may be employed. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of gusset plates 32 are secured to the corners of the beam 26 and column 24 assembly. A central gusset plate 32 allows a plurality of bracing rods 30 to be connected to enhance the rigidity of the overall wall formed by the beams 26 and columns 24. 0046 In another embodiment of the present invention, the press box module 16 using steel tubing 25 in place of the columns 24 and beams 26 as shown in FIG. 4. Using 8 inch by 8 inch {fraction (1/4)} inch thick steel tubing allows for construction of press box modules 16 without the need for additional bracing materials. This arrangement maximizes the interior space of the press box module 16 while minimizing construction time and cost. 0047 A wall formed by either the beams 26 and columns 24, as shown in FIG. 3, or the tubing 25, as shown in FIG. 4, may also be fitted to include a variety of additional elements. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, a doorjamb 34 has been installed. The door jamb 34 generally includes a plurality of L-arm or other bracketry 40 arranged to accommodate the desired door size. The doorjamb 34 is generally made by using a header 36 and retaining member 38 which can be spot welded into place or alternatively screwed into the tubes 25 or beam 26 and post 24. Alternatively, the bracketry 40 can be arranged merely to accommodate the desired opening between rooms in the press box 10. 0048 Typically one module will become one room in the press box 10. However, the open wall provided by the beam 26 and column 24 arrangement or the tube 25 arrangement, allows multiple modules 16 to be assembled to form one room. Alternatively, rooms may be broken up in any desired fashion. 0049 Additionally, other features may be added to the press box module 16. A counter 42, shown in FIGS. 3 and 6 may be installed in any desired location. As is shown in FIG. 6, it is usually desirable in a press box 10 to have a counter 42 close to a window 52. The counter 42 can be secured directly to the flooring 58 such that the countertop 56 abuts against the window wall. As is also shown in FIG. 6, the flooring 58 is generally secured to the beam 26 through the use of an L-arm bracket 40. The L-arm bracket 40 is preferably a steel member that is supplementally supported through one or more support tabs 66, generally shown in FIG. 5. 0050 Referring again to FIG. 3, electrical conduit 46 as well as corresponding electrical boxes 48 and switch boxes 50 may be placed as desired throughout the box-frame structure of any press box module 16. Preferably, the electrical and countertop work is not performed until the floor 58 has been formed. 0051 The floor 58 is generally secured in the same manner as the deck or balcony 20. As is shown in FIG. 6, the flooring 58 or balcony 20 is formed by initially welding a plurality of support tabs 66 to the inside of C-shaped beam 26. Next, an L-arm bracket 40 is welded or otherwise secured to the beam 26 and support tabs 66. Preferably, an aluminum deck structure or concrete slab 58 is secured to the L-arm brackets 40 through the use of a puddle weld, cement screws or other securing means. When this arrangement is to be used for a flooring section, the aluminum deck or concrete slab 58 provides a solid surface over which carpet, tile, or other desired flooring material may be placed. As is also shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, flooring support joists 80 may be secured in a similar fashion. The flooring beams 82, also the bottom beams 26 or bottom tubes 25, may be fitted with a plurality of flooring connector tabs 84 to accommodate a plurality of transversely placed flooring joists 80. The flooring connector tabs 84 are preferably secured to the flooring beams 82 or bottom beams 26 or tubes 25 through welding, though any other securing method may be used. 0052 Preferably, the flooring tabs 84 have a plurality of holes therein that correspond to a plurality of holes in the flooring joists 80. This allows the flooring joists 80 to be rapidly assembled into proper position using nuts and bolts, though any type of securing method may be used. The flooring joists 80 thereby provide additional support to the decking or flooring material 58 previously discussed. Ceiling joists 86 may be similarly installed between ceiling beams 88, the upper most beams 26 or upper most tubes 25, using ceiling connector tabs 90. 0053 Alternatively, the flooring 58 may be secured on top of I-beam flooring joists 80 and the flooring beams 82 made from bottom tubes 25 as is shown in FIG. 8. The shape of the steel tubing 25 provides for additional support for the flooring 58 eliminating some of the additional supports required for the beam 26 and column 24 arrangement. A C-channel member 83 having a flat outer edge may be place to meet the end of the flooring 58. This provides a finished outer surface that may be easily adapted for finishing materials. 0054 Referring again to FIG. 6, a window 52 may be installed into a wall of the press box 10 by employing smaller C-shaped steel bracketry to form a window seal 44. Wood framing 54 may be used to ensure a weather tight fit of the window 52. Again, the open area format of the beam 26 and column 24 wall arrangement or the tube 25 wall arrangement allows a wide variety of shapes and sizes for the window 52. Once the window 52 has been installed, closure plates, typically provided by a siding supplier, can be employed to ensure the wall is weather tight. 0055 During assembly of the beam 26 and column 24 arrangement of the individual press box modules 16 and referring to FIG. 7, a plurality of connector plates 70 are preferably placed on the upper and lower portions of the columns 24 or at other alternative locations as desired. Preferably, the connector plates are 14 inch square, inch thick steel plates that have a plurality of holes therein. Each connector plate 70 is identical such that the connector plates 70 from one module 16 may easily align with the connector plates 70 of another module 16. In order to minimize assembly time and ease installation, the connector plate 70 are substantially larger than the cross-sectional area of the columns 24. It is in this access area that hangs over the column 24, that holes may be placed. 0056 As is also shown in FIG. 7, when the roof module 22 or any other module 16 is formed in the beam 26 and column 24 arrangement, they may be assembled by matching up the holes in the connector plates 70 and securing the upper connector plate 70 to the lower connector plate 70 with a plurality of bolts 64 and nuts 62. As is also shown in FIG. 7, the column 24 may include an additional bracket or gusset plate 32 to which bracing rods 30 may be installed as previously discussed. This allows the columns 24 to put pressure on the beams 26, thereby strengthening the overall rigidity of the entire box-frame press box module 16. 0057 As the connector plates are used to secure the various press box modules 16 together in a vertical arrangement, so the beams 26 can be used to secure the press box modules 16 in a horizontal arrangement. As is shown in FIG. 7, the beams 26 of the press box module 16 include a plurality of holes through which bolts 64 and nuts 62 can be secured. 0058 Alternatively, when the tube 25 arrangement of the press box module 16 is used, the modules may be simply stacked on top of one another or side by side and then they are preferably welded together, preferably using a {fraction (1/4)} inch stitch weld every 2 inches. Any other connection means including welding, screws, etc. can be employed to secure one press box module 16 to another press box module 16 in a vertical arrangement. Thus, it can be seen how the various press box modules 16 can be added to form a press box 10 of any shape or size. 0059 As is shown in FIG. 3, the roof module 22, consists generally of two pairs of roof columns 76. One pair of roof columns 76 is at a pre-determined height with the other pair of roof columns 76 being at a slightly greater height. In this manner, the roof module 22 can have a roof of any desired slope. In between the roof columns 76, roof beams 74 are placed. As is shown, the roof beams 74 are similar to the ceiling beams 88 and flooring beams 82 in that a plurality of connector tabs 78 are welded thereto. The outer ends of the roof beams 74 have been mitered to correspond with the desired slope of the roof. In between the roof beams 74 are a plurality of roofing struts 72. The roofing struts 72 are secured to the connector tabs 78 through the use of screws, bolts and nuts, welding, or any other connective means. 0060 Alternatively, the roof module 22 may be formed using steel tubes 25 as is shown in FIG. 4. The roof columns and beams are formed of steel tubes 74 cut to the desired length and angled or mitered to provide the desired roof shape. As is shown in FIG. 5, the connector tabs 78 are placed on the tubes 25 in the same manner as the connector tabs 84 and 90 for the flooring and ceiling respectively. 0061 After each of the press box modules 16 are completed in the desired fashion and assembled to form the press box 10, finishing materials, such as carpeting, siding, insulation, drywall, paint, wallpaper, lighting, etc. may be installed according to the customer's specifications. The manner of installing all of these elements over an existing steel frame structure is well known in the art. 0062 By making the internal framework in modular form, the entire process may be expedited while still providing the customer with a high quality, customizable end product. It is preferred that the individual press box modules 16 are prefabricated as much as possible at the shop or first location. This would include building in almost all of the electrical systems, heating and ventilation systems, flooring systems, doors, benches and countertops as desired. Once assembly of the individual press box modules 16 is completed to the extent possible, the modules are transported to the construction site or second location. Preferably, the modules 16 are loaded onto a semi-truck trailer for transport. By using the box-frame styles mentioned herein, the size of the individual press box modules 16 can be limited to the height and width allowed to travel down interstate highways without the need for special permits or warning vehicles. 0063 At the construction site, the individual modules 16 are unloaded and placed into the desired position. They are then secured together as previously discussed and staircases 18, balconies 20, and other exterior appointments are added. The roof modules 22 are added and the exterior finishing, including roofing and siding may be completed. The final interior appointments and well-known press box components, including lights, sound systems, computers, chairs, wall finishing materials, and any other customer desired appointments can be added on site to produce the press box 14 desired by the customer. In this manner, it can be seen that the modular approach to building a press box 10 saves time, money and minimizes inconvenience for the customer. 0064 The modular press box 14 also allows for additions to be easily made. After completing a full press box 14, individual modules 16, 22 can be added by simply removing the exterior appointments to expose the steel beam, column or tube. Then additional modules can be connected in the usual fashion and exterior appointments reattached to form a new and expanded press box 14. 0065 A general description of the present invention as well as a preferred embodiment of the present invention has been set forth above. Those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will recognize and be able to practice additional variations in the methods and systems described which fall within the teachings of this invention. Accordingly, all such modifications and additions are deemed to be within the scope of the invention which is to be limited only by the claims appended hereto.