AU2009200398A1 - System and method of using reconfigurable modular containers - Google Patents

Description

Regulation 3.2 AUSTRALIA Patents Act 1990 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION STANDARD PATENT APPLICANT: SEA BOX INTERNATIONAL PTY LTD Invention Title: SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USING RECONFIGURABLE MODULAR CONTAINERS The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me: System and Method of using Reconfigurable Modular Containers Technical Field 5 The present invention relates to reconfigurable modular containers. The present invention also relates to a system and method for deploying modular containers and reconfiguring the containers for a variety of non-transport and non-storage uses. More particularly the present invention relates to a system and 10 method for urban operations training using at least one reconfigurable modular container to simulate an urban terrain. Additionally, the present invention also relates to the use of reconfigurable modular containers to create a temporary infrastructure such as temporary 15 accommodation or office sites. Background of the Invention Urban Operations Training is a process to prepare, in a safe and simulated 20 environment, personnel (including military, emergency services, police, fire services and the like) for operations in Urban Terrain. Urban Terrain can be classified in a wide variety of building styles, structures and density ranging from Cities and Towns to specific precincts such as Town Centres, Business Districts and High Density Residential Blocks. 25 Examples of Urban Operations Training includes Offensive Actions (attacking and securing buildings, precincts etc), Defensive Actions (fortifying and repelling adversaries from Urban Areas), Fire Control and Evacuation, Peacekeeping, and humanitarian relief operations such as Riot Control Training, 30 and Welfare Distribution activities. In achieving the training outcomes as detailed above, replica urban settings must be created to provide realistic and relevant conditions (similar to likely operational environments). The challenge faced by training agencies is to 35 develop robust and cost effective facilities that also provides sufficient complexity 1 in streetscape (alleyways and road systems), building density and variety, and realism. In order to realistically recreate as many of such urban environments as 5 possible, the present invention advantageously provides a reconfigurable modular training apparatus, system and method, which allows great flexibility in recreating a large variety of urban terrains using the same components. Urban operations training often involves the forceful entry into premises by 10 personnel using breaching tools such as pinch bars, battering rams, rifle butts, axes and even explosives. In the training environment, this means that such premises need to be robust to withstand the repetition of an exercise by a large number of personnel undertaking training. 15 The system and method of using reconfigurable modular containers according to the invention advantageously may be repeatedly reconfigured, or redeployed, for successive training exercises, temporary accommodation or the like, without the need for major reconfiguration or repair work to, or the entire replacement of, major structures representing the urban terrain. The present 20 invention therefore seeks to reduce both cost and downtime associated with such repair, reconfiguration and replacement work. Summary of the Invention 25 The present invention provides a reconfigurable modular container according to the following claims which allows for a superior system and method of urban operations training as well as superior temporary infrastructures. The present invention provides a novel reconfigurable aperture and insert system in order to achieve this. Preferred features of the invention will be apparent from 30 the dependent claims and from the following description of the preferred embodiments. By being able to replace one insert for another identical insert, or a completely different insert, a container of the present invention advantageously 35 may be quickly reconfigured to allow repetition of a particular training exercise, or represent another urban terrain. Similarly, due to the modular nature of the 2 reconfigurable containers, they may be placed adjacent one another, stacked on top of each other, with or without numerous removable features, to advantageously afford indefinite variations to the topography of an urban environment. 5 As a result, interest levels the training challenge levels of personnel undertaking training are maintained. The learning capability and experience of the personnel undertaking training is expanded as the urban topography may be continually changed to provide variety and a sense of realism to the training of 10 personnel. In a preferred form of the present invention, the reconfigurable modular container consists of an ISO Shipping container. 15 Brief Description of the Drawings Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. 20 Figure RMC illustrates an embodiment of a reconfigurable modular container according to the present invention. Figure RMC' illustrates a side wall aperture and aperture frame including various inserts embodied by the present invention. 25 Figure D illustrates a door insert according to the present invention. Figure D' illustrates a removable door insert according to the present invention when viewed from inside a reconfigurable modular container. 30 Figure D" further illustrates a removable door insert when viewed from inside a reconfigurable modular container of the present invention. Figure D"' further illustrates a removable door insert when viewed externally to 35 the reconfigurable modular container of the present invention. 3 Figure W illustrates a removable window insert according to the present invention. Figure W' illustrates a window insert fitted to a reconfigurable modular container 5 according to the present invention. Figure W" illustrates a removable window insert when viewed from within a reconfigurable modular container of the present invention. 10 Figure W"' illustrates a window insert and a mouse hole insert fitted to a side wall aperture of a reconfigurable modular container of the present invention. Figure M illustrates an embodiment of a removable mouse hole insert of the present invention, when viewed from within a reconfigurable modular container. 15 Figure S illustrates a view of two solid wall inserts retained by the side wall aperture within a reconfigurable modular container according to the present invention. 20 Figure B illustrates balustrades about the periphery of a reconfigurable modular container roof and roof aperture according to a further embodiment of the present invention. Figure B' illustrates an external view of a corner of a reconfigurable modular 25 container having balustrades and containers according to an embodiment of the invention. Figure B" illustrates an interior roof corner of a reconfigurable modular container according to an embodiment of the present invention. 30 Figure B"' illustrates a roof aperture balustrade being removably retained according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure B"" illustrates a balustrade according to a preferred embodiment of the 35 present invention. 4 Figure BL illustrates a preferred embodiment of a balustrade which allows ladder access to the roof of a reconfigurable modular container. Figure IP illustrates an internal partition and aperture frame for a reconfigurable 5 modular container according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure IP' illustrates a pocket and backing plate for receiving an anchor plate according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. 10 Figure IS illustrates an internal staircase to a roof aperture of a reconfigurable modular container according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure RSS illustrates a roof support structure according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. 15 Figure BW illustrates balustrades fixed to adjacent reconfigurable modular containers, creating a barrier wall according to further embodiment of the present invention. 20 Figure BW' illustrates a barrier post for holding balustrades fixed to a reconfigurable modular container according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure BP illustrates a pair of barrier posts according to a preferred embodiment 25 of the present invention. Figure EF illustrates an external fence according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. 30 Figure EF' illustrates an external fence with an aperture and aperture frame fitted according to a further embodiment of the invention. Figure TS illustrates a first embodiment of an urban operations training system using reconfigurable modular containers according to the present invention. 35 5 Figure AS illustrates an embodiment of a system of present invention wherein multiple reconfigurable modular containers may have side wall apertures substantially aligned despite the containers being off-set from one another. 5 Detailed Description In general, the urban operations training system and method of the present invention utilises the flexibility provided by the reconfigurable modular container of the present invention. 10 Reconfigurable modular container Figure RMC shows one possible configuration for the reconfigurable modular container RMC10 according the present invention. Typically, such 15 containers include a first side wall SW, a second side wall (not shown), a floor F, a pair of end walls EW, and a roof R, substantially covering the floor F and extending between the side and end walls (SW, EW) respectively. Reconfigurable modular containers of the present invention include at least a side wall aperture A, adapted to removably receive and retain at least one insert (RMC 20 30, RMC40, RMC50) to a side wall SW of the reconfigurable modular container RMC10. As shown in Figure RMC', in a preferred embodiment of the invention, a side wall aperture A consists of an aperture cut out of a side wall of the container, 25 and the perimeter of the hole remaining (excluding the floor) is subsequently reinforced with an aperture frame AF, fixed to the side wall SW of the container. The aperture frame AF is preferably constructed of rectangular steel tubing and welded onto the side wall SW. Aperture frames AF, may also consist of other materials used to reinforce door and window apertures in buildings, such as 30 timber or the like. Figure RMC' also illustrates some of the different inserts available in the present invention. Preferably all of the side wall aperture A present on a reconfigurable modular container of the invention are of equal dimension. As 35 can be seen in Figure RMC', and discussed later, the inserts (RMC'20, RMC'40, 6 RMC'50) used to replicate features of a house or building etc, may be constructed in different dimensions and of different materials. Such inserts provide entry and exist points to and from a container during 5 the urban operations training. The inserts typically replicate doors, windows, 'mouse holes' (an access hole which may be smashed in, or punctured using an explosive device) as well as portions of solid wall used to partially blank out the portions of side wall apertures A that are not required. 10 In the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure RMC, the reconfigurable modular container RMC10, includes a window insert RMC30, a pair of mouse hole inserts RMC40 and a solid wall insert RMC50. Further possible inserts for the side wall include a door insert as described in Figures D to D"'. 15 The reconfigurable modular container embodied by Figure RMC also includes a roof aperture RMC28, and an internal stair case RMC60 with a demountable handrail RMC62, to allow personnel access to the roof R. As the reconfigurable modular containers are modular and stackable, the inclusions of a 20 roof aperture RMC28 and staircase RMC60 allows the creation of multi-storey urban environments whereby personnel may access a second reconfigurable modular container via the staircase of a container as set out in Figure RMC. Alternatively, the container of Figure RMC may be the highest stacked container amongst a stack of containers, to thereby allow personnel access to the open 25 environment. In yet another embodiment of the reconfigurable modular container of Figure RMC, the reconfigurable modular container RMC10, may be used as a single level structure having a balcony, without any further containers being on 30 the container RMC10. A feature of this embodiment of a reconfigurable modular container is the inclusion of removable balustrades RMC12, which may partially, or wholly surround the periphery of the roof R. As is discussed below in relation to Figures 35 B to B"', balustrades RMC12 may be held about the periphery of the roof, by 7 placing footings (not shown in Figure RMC) of the balustrades RMC12 in retainers RMC14 spaced about the container's periphery. In a further embodiment discussed later, reconfigurable modular containers 5 having a roof aperture RMC28 may optionally include a removable balustrade (not shown in Figure RMC) about the periphery of RMC28. As can be seen from Figure RMC, removable balustrades RMC12 may include openings to receive the footings of a second removable balustrade 10 RMC12 stacked on top of the first in order to increase the overall height of the balustrade RMC12. Additionally, roof bows RMC16 may be fitted to balustrades RMC12 fitted on opposite sides of the container. Typically such roof bows RMC 16 are made of 15 rectangular steel tubing, welded or shaped to form a roof bow to span across the roof R as shown. Equally suitably structures such as timber frames, or a metal rod may be used to create such a roof bow. This allows temporary protective cover such as a tarpaulin or canvass to be spanned partially, or entirely over the roof space for short term protection from the weather, or to provide additional 20 privacy. The embodiment of Figure RMC also illustrates a barrier wall, BW fixed via barrier posts BP, between two adjacent reconfigurable modular containers RMC10. As will be discussed in detail later, the barrier wall BW may comprise at 25 least one balustrade having a solid panel (typically of timber or similar material) fixed thereon, whilst the barrier posts BP are removably locked to the container and shaped to slideably receive one or more barrier walls. In order to achieve a diverse urban environment several further 30 embodiments of the reconfigurable modular container are envisaged as part of the urban training system. Each of the further embodiments of a reconfigurable modular container commonly include first and second side walls, a pair of end walls, a floor and a 35 roof substantially covering the floor and extending between the side and end 8 walls, and at least one side wall aperture capable of removably retaining at least one insert as previously described. A first further embodiment of a reconfigurable modular container also 5 includes a floor aperture to allow personnel to pass through, along with a roof aperture allowing personnel to pass therethrough and an internal staircase as previously described. This type of container may be used to replicate an intermediate level of a multi-storey building, for example. Personnel may pass through this type of reconfigurable modular container in order to gain access to a 10 container above or below the present container. Alternatively, this type of container may be used as the highest container in a stack of containers so that personnel may climb on the roof of this container. In a manner similar to that set out in Figure RMC, this embodiment of container may include removable balustrading and a removable roof cover. 15 A second further embodiment of a reconfigurable modular container envisaged by the invention, includes a floor aperture to allow personnel to enter into the present container from a container below it (via a stairwell and roof aperture as previously discussed). 20 In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the roof may be reinforced by a series of metal beams extending between each side wall, in the internal space of a container. The beams are preferably welded to the roof and respective side walls of the container to increase the load bearing capability of 25 the roof, and withstand the force caused by numerous personnel walking on the roof simultaneously. In a preferred form of the invention, side wall apertures of the reconfigurable modular container are dimensioned to accommodate a door of standard 30 dimension (as defined by the Building Code of Australia - BCA 2007 Edition, Australian Building Codes Board). Additionally, in a particularly preferred form of the invention, the dimensions of all major features of the reconfigurable modular container, such as stairs, 35 balustrades, doors, windows, and staircases for example, are compliant with the Building Code of Australia - BCA 2007 Edition, Australian Building Codes Board. 9 However, according to the urban training system of the present invention, side wall apertures may also be of different dimensions, with an insert dimensioned to match. This allows further design flexibility of a reconfigurable 5 modular container, as inserts replicating doors or windows from different urban regions may be manufactured to create a more realistic representation of a particular urban topography. In another aspect of the invention, a system to align at least two 10 reconfigurable modular containers is provided. The system comprises at least one side wall aperture of a reconfigurable modular container being located along a side wall of the container such that it is positioned to align with at least one side wall aperture of an adjacent container, to allow internal access between the two containers. 15 In a preferred form of the above aspect of the invention, at least two reconfigurable modular containers include a first side wall having three side wall apertures and a second side wall having two side wall apertures on the respective containers. Preferably these side wall apertures are equally 20 dimensioned, and equally spaced laterally from each other, along their respective side walls. In particular, it is preferred that the three side wall apertures are spaced such that the centre point of one of the side wall apertures is located at a distance along the side wall measuring approximately 1/2 of the overall length of a container (measured from the outer extremities of the container). The centre 25 points of the two remaining side wall apertures are preferably located at a distance of approximately % and % of the overall length of a container respectively, along the length of the side wall of each respective container. In a similar manner, each side wall including two apertures preferably has the respective centre points of these apertures located at a distance of approximately 30 % and % of the overall length of a container along the length of that side wall. As a result of such even spacing of side wall apertures, reconfigurable containers may include internal walls to partition the container into three equally dimensioned sections or rooms, each having a side wall aperture centred within 35 each section or room, and able to receive a variety of inserts as discussed in detail below. The partitioned walls may be of any known suitable building 10 material used of internal walls or internal partitioning of buildings which may be removably fastened to the interior of the container by any suitable means known in the art. Internal walls may further include doors to allow internal access between adjacent rooms. 5 This provides for greater modularity and redeployability of the reconfigurable modular containers. Adjacent containers may be aligned with each other, and users can be assured that side wall apertures will align systematically to allow internal access between adjacent containers. 10 It should be understood that the containers of the present invention may be manufactured of any material suitable for building reconfigurable modular containers able to withstand the rigours of urban operations training of personnel. Therefore, containers may be constructed of building materials such as, 15 rectangular steel tube frames or timber frames, with timber panels, or corrugated metal sheeting, tin sheeting, plaster sheets or similar materials attached to create a container. In a preferred form of the invention, the reconfigurable modular containers 20 are ISO shipping containers that may be modified for a non-storage use as described. Once in situ, a reconfigurable modular container may be secured to the ground in order to prevent any movement of the container during a training 25 exercise. In a preferred embodiment of the invention at least one screw pile footing is removably attached to at least one bottom corner casting of an ISO shipping container, in order to secure the container to the ground. Preferably, the screw pile is attached to the corner castings using a twist lock fastening arrangement similar to that described for a barrier post of the present invention in 30 Figure BP. Door Inserts Referring to the drawings, embodiments of possible inserts are shown in 35 Figures D, D', D" and D"'. Figure D shows a door insert D10. The door insert D10 includes a door frame D20 sized to fit a side wall aperture A of the 11 reconfigurable modular container A10. The door insert D10 also includes a door D14 and door handle D16. Typically the door D14 is a solid timber door, however other suitable materials known for doors may also be used. 5 As shown in Figure D', a door frame D'20, further includes a series of door hinges D'12 (only one shown) fastened to it, to allow a door D'14, to be fixed to the door insert frame D'10. Figures D' and D" depict partial views of the door frames D'20, and D"20 10 respectively. As is shown in Figure D", the door frame D"20 also includes multiple handles D"18 fixed thereupon to allow the door insert D"10 to be lifted out of its retained position in a side wall aperture a of a reconfigurable modular container. Such handles D"18, in a preferred form of the invention are made of metal which allows them to be welded to the door frame D"20 as presently 15 depicted in Figure D". However, it should be readily understood that the handles D"18 need not be made of metal, and may be fastened to the door frame D"20 in any other conventional manner such as nut and bolt or screwed, for example. In a preferred embodiment shown in Figures D' and D", the door frame D'20 20 further includes a series of tabs D'22 (shown as D"22 in Figure D") spaced about the longitudinal sides of door frame D'20 (or D"20). The tabs D'22 extend laterally outwardly from the frame D'20 such that each tab D'22 is received by a recess formed by a bracket D'24 welded on a side wall aperture A of the reconfigurable modular container. The tabs D'22 and brackets D'24 are 25 positioned in their respective locations such that when the door frame D'20 is lifted into position, and lower portions of the frame are in contact with the floor of the reconfigurable modular container, each tab D'22 is aligned to fit within a recess of a matching bracket D'24. In this manner, brackets D'24 prevent the door insert D'10, from falling inwards into the internal space of the container, 30 whilst the tabs D'22 prevent the door insert 10 from falling out of the container. Typically the tabs D'22 and brackets D'24, may be pieces of metal plate welded on to the door frame D'20, and side wall aperture A respectively. However, as appreciated by those skilled in the art, the tabs D'22 and brackets D'24 may be made of any other suitable material, and fastened by any other suitable means 35 such as nut and bolt, or riveted, etc as would be understood by the skilled person. 12 In a further preferred form of the door inserts of the invention shown in Figure D", a latch receiving member D"30 is fastened to both the door frame D"20, and a portion of the side wall aperture A of the container. Typically, such latch receiving members D"30 are metal loops which are welded to the door 5 frame D"20 and side wall aperture A. The members D"30 receive a breakable latch, such as a timber dowel or plastic strip (not shown) in order to lock the door D"14 and prevent it from inadvertently from swinging open. Such breakable latches may then be replaced at the end of each training activity in order to hold the door D"14, in place for the next training exercise. 10 In an alternative embodiment not shown, the door D"14 may include a hole therethrough to allow a person access to the breakable latch from the outside of the container, in order to open the door from the outside without breaking the latch. 15 At the completion of a training exercise, the reconfigurable modular container may be quickly reconfigured to reflect a different urban terrain. For example, the door insert D"10 may be removed from the side wall aperture A of the reconfigurable modular container by lifting the door insert D"10 upwards until 20 the tabs D"22 are clear of the brackets D"24 and subsequently removing the door insert. Another insert such as a window insert in combination with a solid insert, may then be inserted into the side wall aperture A and retained in place by mating the brackets D"24 of the side wall aperture A with similar tabs on the window insert or solid wall insert, to those present on the door insert D"22. 25 Figure D"' similarly shows an external view of a door D"'14 including a door handle D.'16, and a preferable including a robust 'smash plate' D"'19. Such a smash plate D"'19, may be made of any material that allows the use of breaching tools to smash the door D"'14 open without permanently damaging the door 30 D"'14. Typically such a plate D.'19 may be made of chequer plate steel, or metal, which allows a door handle D.'16 to be welded to it, thereby forming a single component. Once the door handle D"'16 is welded to the smash plate D"' 19, the plate and handle assemble is then preferably screwed onto door D"'14. 35 Referring back to Figure D", the internal face of the door D"14 similarly may have a smash plate D"19, including a door handle D"16 fastened to it. In such an 13 embodiment, smash plates D"19 with door handles D"16 may be provided on either side of a door D"14 and bolted to the door D"14, or fastened by any other suitable means. 5 Window inserts A further embodiment of the insert is shown in Figures W, W' and W" which illustrate an insert in the form of a window. 10 Figure W shows a partial view of a window insert W30 including a window insert frame W32 having two interior window frames W34 pivotally fixed to the window insert frame W32. The two interior window frames W34 are able to receive glass (or simulated glass such as a Perspex) panes (not shown) to complete the appearance of a window. The interior window frames W34 maybe 15 fixed to the window insert frame W32 by any suitable means that allows the interior window frames W34 to swing freely once the window insert W30 is in situ. This includes for example, the use of hinges, or a spigot retainer fitting, or other variations known to the person skilled in the art. Preferably, the window insert W30 is constructed of metal plate and /or rectangular steel tubing, whilst the 20 interior window frames W34 are typically constructed of rectangular steel tubing. However they may be manufactured from any material capable of withstanding the impact of breaching tools such as rifle butts, timber pieces, bricks or rocks or pinch bars and the like. 25 Additionally, at least one handle W38 is included on either side of the window insert frame W32 to assist the rapid removal or insertion of the window insert W30 from an aperture of a side wall of the reconfigurable modular container. Preferably such handles W38 are metal so they may be welded to the window insert frame W32 during manufacture. 30 Figure W further illustrates a pair of longitudinal strips W33, fixed, one on either longitudinal side of the window insert W30. Spaced from each longitudinal strips W33 are upper and lower tabs W35 extending laterally outward from the longitudinal sides of the window insert W30. Again preferably said longitudinal 35 strips W33 and upper and lower tabs W35 are made of plate metal which may be directed welded onto the window insert W30 during manufacture. However, 14 equally suitable variations are envisaged, such as for example, lengths of right angle metal bracket bolted onto the window insert W30. As described in an earlier embodiment above, each side wall aperture A of 5 a reconfigurable modular container has a series of brackets shown as W"24 in Figure W", welded to the side wall aperture A in order to create a recess. Figure W" shows a window insert W"30 being held in position in the side wall aperture A, by a longitudinal strip W"33 being retained in the recess created by bracket W"24. In a manner similar to that set out for the door insert, a window insert 10 W"30 may be inserted or removed from the side wall aperture A by manoeuvring said window insert W"30 until the bracket W"24 of the side wall aperture a is aligned with the space between the longitudinal strip W"33 and the tabs W35 present on each side of the window insert. Once aligned, the window insert W"30 may be removed, or alternatively pushed against the side wall aperture 15 Aand subsequently lowered into position where it will be retained by brackets W"24 engaging with the longitudinal strips W"33 of the window insert W"30 at the lower portion of the window insert W"30, and by brackets W"24 engaging with the upper tabs W"35 of the window insert W"30, (not shown). 20 In use, the interior window frames W34 may be forced to swing open by smashing against the interior window frames W34 and window panes with breaching tools until access may be gained by personnel wishing to enter or exit the reconfigurable modular container via the replicated window created by the window insert W30. The interior window frames W34 are designed to swing 25 freely both inwardly and outwardly. However, as shown in Figure W', the use of a stop W'36 fixed to the interior window frame W'34 allows the interior window frames to be modified to create window replicas that only swing open in one direction. Typically such a stop W'36 comprises a short section of rectangular tubing welded to a lower portion of the interior window frame W'34 as shown in 30 Figure W'. As illustrated in Figure W"', in order to realistically replicate a window of an urban building, the window insert W'"30 is located in the upper region of a side wall aperture A of the reconfigurable modular container. Typically the lower 35 region of the side wall aperture A is filled with a solid wall insert or a mouse hole 15 insert W"'40 as discussed below. This allows the window insert W.'30 to rest upon and be supported by the lower insert, in this case hole insert W.'40. Mouse Hole Insert 5 A mouse hole insert is another embodiment of the inserts available to trainers when configuring an urban terrain for the training of personnel. This insert allows training in the use of explosives to gain entry into a premises. As shown in Figure W"', the mouse hole insert W."40 is preferably the same size as 10 the window insert W"'30. This allows the aperture a to be filled by two equal halves as shown However, as may be recognised by the person skilled in the art, the size of these inserts need not be limited and both the window insert W.'30 and the mouse hole insert W."40 may be made to different lengths, as required. 15 As shown in Figure M, mouse hole insert M40 includes a frame M42 with handles M48 attached to either side of the frame M42 as previously discussed with respect to the window insert. Similarly, mouse hole insert M40 includes a pair of longitudinal strips M33 20 (only one shown) and upper and lower tabs M35 spaced from each longitudinal strip M33. As illustrated in Figure M, the mouse hole insert M40 is removably retained by the upper tabs M35 being received in the recess creature by brackets M44, fixed to a side wall aperture A, of the reconfigurable modular container, and further retained by the longitudinal strips M33 being received in the recesses 25 created by brackets M44 located in the lower portion of a side wall aperture A of a side wall of the reconfigurable modular container. Typically, the mouse hole insert frame M40 is also made of rectangular steel tubing and is covered by a panel M47 fastened to it. In a preferred embodiment 30 the mouse hole insert frame M40 includes a bracket which allows for a panel to be retained against it. This allows the panel M47 to easily slide into place, and be readily replaced as required. It will be readily understood that the panel M47 may be fastened to the mouse hole insert frame M40 using any means that will allow rapid replacement. For example holding the panel M47 in place with a 35 series of screws or bolts is also envisaged. 16 Whilst the reconfigurable modular container is not in use, the panel M47 may comprise a timber sheet, such as plywood or chipboard, or similar, or a piece of material from which the side walls of the reconfigurable modular container are made, or the like. This provides protection for the inside of the 5 reconfigurable modular container from the weather. However, during training exercises, the panel M47 typically comprises a piece of plaster or similar, such that explosives material may be attached thereto and upon detonation, disintegrate the panel M47. 10 In a preferred embodiment the mouse hole insert is able to be inserted into either the upper or lower half of an aperture of a side wall of the reconfigurable modular container. Solid wall insert 15 Figure S illustrates a further embodiment of the inserts of the present invention. The inserts shown are a pair of solid wall inserts S50. These inserts comprise insert frames similar to those previously discussed with respect to the mouse hole inserts. However, the solid wall inserts include a panel S57 that is 20 made of the same material as the side walls SSW of the reconfigurable modular container. As shown in the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figure S, handles S58 for lifting and carrying the solid insert S50 are fixed to the panel S57 rather than to the longitudinal sides of the insert frames as shown for the mouse hole and window inserts previously shown. Solid wall inserts may also have handles 25 fixed to the insert frame rather than to the solid wall panel. A further embodiment (not shown) of the inserts for the reconfigurable modular container of the present invention includes a skylight insert having a frame similar to that described an shown in Figure S. However, rather than a 30 solid panel S57, made from a material similar to that of the side wall SW, the solid panel S57 material may consist of a transparent or opaque material, such as Perspex or other type of plastic sheeting which allows light through. An aperture similar to that described in Figure S may provided on the roof of a reconfigurable modular container and an insert including said opaque material may be 35 removably retained in the roof aperture to create sky light. 17 Trap door insert In yet another embodiment, an insert in the form of a trap door is contemplated. The trap door insert is substantially similar to that of the door 5 insert of Figures D to D"'. Trap door inserts may be fitted to a roof aperture as discussed above, or similarly a floor aperture of a reconfigurable modular container. Such an insert is provided to replicate a covert entrance/exit point in a reconfigurable modular container. 10 Balustrades Figures B, and B', show a further embodiment of the invention in which reconfigurable modular containers having a roof aperture to allow access to the roof may be fitted with balustrades around or partially around the perimeter of the 15 roof or roof aperture. Figure B shows the roof B10 of a reconfigurable modular container including balustrades B12, of various lengths about the perimeter of the roof B10 of the container. Such balustrades B12 typically consist of at least two posts B14 and 20 at least one horizontal cross member B16 joined to the post to create a railing. Preferably, additional posts B15 and cross members B17 may be included to the balustrade to, for example, vary the length of a balustrade, or provide a second lower railing on the balustrade. The posts B14, B15 and cross member B16, B17 are preferably made of rectangular steel tubing which can be welded together to 25 create a balustrade. In order to fit a balustrade B12 to the roof B10, the posts B14 are pushed into retainers B20 positioned about the perimeter of the roof B10. Figure B' shows a typical retainer B'20 receiving a post B'14 of a balustrades B'12. Such retainers B'20 preferably consist of a body section B'24 30 of rectangular steel tubing, and spaced below the body section B'20, a substantially horizontal base plate B'26. Both the body section B'24 and the base plate B'26 are preferably welded to the side walls SW and end walls EW of the reconfigurable modular container as shown. The spacing between the body section B'24 and the base plate B'26 prevents any liquids, such as rain water or 35 fire retardant from collecting in the retainer B'20. Preferably, balustrades B'12 include footings B'22 (partially shown) comprising a smaller dimension of 18 rectangular steel tubing than the tubing used for the posts B'14. The dimension of the tubing for the footing B'22 should allow for a telescopic fit into post B'14. The footings B'22 may then be welded to the posts B'14, and thereby become the portions of the posts B'14, received by the retainers B'20. This advantageously 5 allows the body section B'24 of the retainer to be made from the same dimensioned rectangular steel tubing as that used for the posts B'14. Alternatively, as shown in the embodiment of Figure B", the retainer B"20 for receiving a footing of a balustrade post may be located in the interior of a 10 reconfigurable modular container. Typically, such a retainer B"20 may be welded to the roof B"10 and/or side walls B"SW or end walls B"EW of the reconfigurable modular container. As can be seen from the diagram, base plate B'26 is now welded directly onto the body section B"24 of retainer B"20 to avoid and liquids leaking into the interior of the reconfigurable modular container. 15 In a further embodiment of the invention, the balustrades B12 may maintained in place about the perimeter of the roof B10, using the anchor plate and keyed pocket arrangement used to retain roof aperture balustrades, as described below and shown in Figure B"'. 20 Returning to Figure B. In a further embodiment of the invention, each of the balustrades B12 used about the perimeter of the roof B10, preferably includes at least two openings B18, to receive the footings of a subsequent balustrade B12 (nor shown) which may be stacked on top of the existing balustrade. Typically, 25 such openings B18 are a hollow opening of the posts B14. This allows the overall height of the balustrade to be altered. By fixing a timber panel (or the like) to such balustrades, a barrier, or wall is readily created. The height of the wall or barrier may be adjusted according to the number of balustrades stacked upon each other, in order to further vary the profile of the urban terrain. 30 As shown in Figure B"", balustrades B""12, typically used about the perimeter of the roof, may be dimensioned such that only three balustrades are required along the length of a side wall of the reconfigurable modular container. Such balustrades B""12 are typically constructed to include three posts B""14 to 35 be mounted in retainers on the roof of a reconfigurable modular container as previously described. Having only three balustrades B""12 provides a symmetry 19 with reconfigurable modular containers which include a first side wall having three side wall apertures, as discussed above. Figure BL depicts a further embodiment of a balustrade which is used to 5 surround the periphery of a reconfigurable modular container, yet allow for roof top access via a ladder. Balustrade BL12 is dimensioned such that it may be used in conjunction with two balustrades according to Figure B"", to provide a railing substantially along a side wall of a reconfigurable modular container. In order for the symmetry to be maintained, balustrade BL12 also includes three 10 posts BL14, along with complimentary horizontal cross members BL16, to form a railing as previously described. However, incorporating balustrade BL12 along the length of a side wall, allows sufficient space for ladder access to the roof of a reconfigurable modular 15 container. Ladders may typically be rested against the side wall of a reconfigurable modular container, or fixed to the roof using any suitable means understood by the skilled person. In a further embodiment of the invention not shown, balustrades such as 20 that described in Figure BL, may be used in conjunction with a bridging arrangement such as walkway or gangplank. Such an arrangement enables gap between two adjacent reconfigurable modular containers to be bridged and allows roof top access between adjacent containers. 25 A preferred method of securing a ladder or a bridging arrangement to the roof of a container incorporates the use of anchor plates fixed to the ladder or bridging arrangement. The anchor plates may then be received by complimentary pockets fixed about the periphery of the roof of a container, in a manner similar to that described below with regard to Figure B"'. 30 Roof Aperture Balustrades An embodiment of the invention shown in Figure B also includes roof aperture balustrades B30, which are positioned around at least part of the 35 perimeter of the roof aperture B28. The roof aperture balustrade B30 is manufactured to a manner similar to the balustrades B12 discussed above. The 20 roof balustrade B30, may be fixed to the roof aperture B28 using retainers similar to those previously described in Figure B". However, Figure B also shows, as part of the preferred form of the invention, a keyed pocket B34, and backing plate B32, used to removably retain a roof aperture balustrade B 30, as is described in 5 more detail in Figure B"'. Turing then to the preferred method of retaining a roof aperture balustrade as shown in Figure B"'. The roof aperture balustrade B"'30 includes an anchor plate B"'36 which is welded to the lower end of the post B.'14. In order to hold a 10 roof aperture balustrade B"'30 safely in position during use, the roof aperture B"'28 and/or roof B"'10, have two metal backing plates B"'32 welded to them for each roof aperture balustrade to be fixed about the roof aperture. The backing plates are spaced about the roof aperture periphery at intervals equivalent to the distance between consecutive posts B"'14 of a roof aperture balustrade B.'28. 15 (This spacing arrangement is more clearly shown in Figure B). Welded to the backing plate B"'32 is a metal pocket B"'34 that has been keyed to a width and depth sufficient enough to receive post B"'14. The keyed pocket B.'34 includes a lip B.'38 about its periphery which allows the pocket 20 B.'34 to be spaced from the backing plate B"'32 once it is welded onto the backing plate B.'32. The lip B"'38 is to be of sufficient depth, so that resultant space between the backing plate B.'32 and pocket B"'34 allows the anchor plate B.'36 of post B.'14 to fit there between. 25 In one embodiment not shown, in order to secure the balustrade even further, it is preferable for both the pocket B"'34, and anchor plate B"'36 respectively, to have a hole therethrough. The holes in each are positioned so that they align once the anchor plate B.'36 is received by pocket B.'24. This allows for a screw or bolt to be inserted into the aligned holes, thereby preventing 30 accidental removal of the roof aperture balustrade B"'30 during use. The use of a pocket B"'34 allows the balustrade to be quickly removed by sliding the balustrade horizontally until the anchor plate B.'36, of post B"'14, is no longer retained in the space created by the backing plate B"'32, and pocket 35 B'34. 21 Internal Partitions In a further embodiment of the present invention, the reconfigurable modular container may also include one or more internal partitions to be inserted within 5 the container. Figure IP shows an internal partition IP10, including an internal frame IF, along with an aperture frame AF, as previously described. The aperture frame AF is fixed to the internal partition IP10, though the use of pockets fixed to the 10 partition (not shown), and anchor plates IP36 in a manner similar to that described earlier. Figure IP' illustrates a preferred form of the pockets suitable for holding an internal partition. Typically, the internal frame IF is made of rectangular steel tubing or other 15 similar material. In the preferred form, internal frame IF of internal partition IP10, is dimensioned to be substantially the same height as the internal height of a reconfigurable modular container. In this way, the internal frame IF maybe fixed to the ceiling (roof) of a container via a track or railing, typically of a U-shaped cross-section, pre-fastened to the ceiling of the container. The lower portion of 20 the internal frame IF rest on the floor of the container and be further fastened thereto through standard fastening means such as barrel-bolts or the like. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the rail is dimensioned to receive and hold the top of internal frame IF in place. 25 The internal partitions IP10 also include infill comprising any suitable sheet material, or building panels used to create a wall, and fill in the remaining space between the internal frame IF and the aperture frame AF, as understood by those skilled in the art. The infill sheets may be fastened to the internal framework by any suitable means dependent upon the materials being used. 30 Of course, the use of an aperture frame AF in an internal partition is optional, and the internal partition may consist of an internal frame having only sheet material fastened thereto to create a solid wall or screen. 35 In a preferred form, internal partitions are sized to be approximately only half the width of a container. This allows the internal space of a container to be 22 partially screened off, with a staircase on the other side for example, or if two partitions are abutted together, an internal wall across the entire container may be formed. 5 Having an aperture frame AF inserted into an internal partition allows further flexibility in respect of the design of a reconfigurable modular container. It will be appreciated that a variety of inserts such as a door or mouse hole insert, may be placed into the aperture frames, as previously described. 10 As mentioned, Figure IP shows the internal partition fitted with such an aperture frame AF. Preferably, there are three anchor plates IP36, welded to the aperture frame AF, and three matching pockets welded to the internal partition IP10. Additionally, aperture frame AF has a height less than the height of the internal partition IP10. This allows an aperture frame AF to be inserted into an 15 internal partition IP10 by simply lifting the aperture frame AF so that each anchor plate IP36, is just above its respective pocket, and the aperture frame AF may then be slowly lowered into position until each anchor plate IP36 is received by its corresponding pocket. 20 Figure IP' illustrates a preferred form of the pocket configuration used to retain an aperture frame AF on an internal partition for the reconfigurable modular container. In a manner similar to that described in relation to Figure B'" above, a backing plate IP'32 has a pocket IP'34 fixed thereto. The pocket IP'34 includes a lip IP'38 to provide sufficient depth, so that resultant space between the backing 25 plate IP'32 and pocket IP'34 allows an anchor plate secured to an aperture frame (not shown), to fit therebetween. Preferably, the backing plate IP'32 and pocket IP'34 are metal so that the two components may be welded together. Whilst pocket IP'34 may also be keyed, as previously described. 30 A Reconfigurable Modular Container having an Internal Staircase In a further embodiment of the present invention, reconfigurable modular containers having either a roof aperture, or both a floor and roof aperture are fitted out with an internal staircase. The present invention can therefore create 35 an urban environment having one or more a multistorey buildings by stacking at 23 least a first reconfigurable modular container on top of at least a second reconfigurable modular container in order to vary the height of the infrastructure. Figures IS illustrates a typical reconfigurable modular container having an 5 internal staircase IS60. The staircase IS60 presently shown is positioned in longitudinal alignment with the reconfigurable modular container and anchored to both the floor F of the reconfigurable modular container and to the roof aperture IS28. However it should be recognised that the internal staircase IS60 need not be restricted to align longitudinally with the reconfigurable modular container. 10 In the preferred embodiment shown, the internal staircase IS60 is made of metal plate so that it may be welded to both the floor F and roof aperture IS60. However, as will be appreciated, it is envisaged that the internal staircase may be made of other materials such as timber, or a combination of timber and steel or 15 the like. Similarly, the preferred internal staircase IS60 is shown with a handrail IS62, and presently complies with the Australian industry standard as set out in the Building Code of Australia - BCA 2007 Edition. However, given the training system of the present invention is to create an urban terrain for personnel, internal staircases may be provided which do not meet this standard, but which 20 better reflect staircase styles typical of another region of the world. As a further example of the modularity of construction of the reconfigurable modular container, the preferred internal staircase IS60 includes a demountable handrail IS62 to add greater design flexibility to the training system. Typically 25 such a handrail IS62 is constructed in a manner similar to that described for the roof perimeter balustrade shown in Figure B. In order to create a demountable handrail IS62, preferably a series of retainers IS20 are welded along one of the stair stringers IS64, and to the stair treads IS66, of the staircase IS60, in order to receive footings of the handrails (not shown) in a manner similar to that described 30 for the balustrades of Figure B. However, any other simple fastening means, such as nuts and bolts, may equally be applied to demountable fix handrails to the staircase IS60. Furthermore, as the primary function of the internal staircase is to allow 35 personnel access to the roof of a container, the internal stair case may be replaced with a ladder such as a rope ladder, metal or timber ladder, or rope 24 solely fixed to the roof aperture. Such fastening may include hooking a ladder, or bolting a ladder to the roof aperture as is understood in the art. In a preferred form of the invention, where an internal staircase is fitted to a 5 reconfigurable modular container, the container is preferably provided with no more than two apertures in the side wall of the reconfigurable modular container closest to which the internal staircase is located. These two apertures are preferably located closer to the respective ends of the container, leaving the central portion of the side wall SW of the reconfigurable modular container 10 without an aperture. This prevents access to the inside of the reconfigurable modular container through a central side wall aperture being obstructed by the internal staircase, upon entry through such an aperture. Roof Support Structure 15 According to one aspect of the invention, the roof of a reconfigurable modular container is assessable to persons undertaking, or providing operations training. In order to provide a safe working environment whilst training, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, a roof support structure is provided to 20 the reconfigurable modular container to increase the rigidity and load bearing capacity of the roof. Figure RSS illustrates a roof support structure RSS10 comprising a rectangular frame RSS12 of substantially similar dimensions to the roof of a reconfigurable modular container (not shown). The rectangular frame RSS12 is dimensioned to fit inside a reconfigurable modular container, and be 25 fixed to the internal side and end walls, and roof of the container. The frame RSS12 further includes a longitudinally extending bracing member RSS14 interior to the frame. The bracing member RSS14, runs substantially parallel to the longitudinal length of the frame RSS12. A plurality of ribs RSS16, run transverse to the bracing member RSS14 to complete the roof support structure RSS10. 30 Preferably, each of the frame RSS12, bracing member RSS14, and ribs RSS16, are made of rectangular steel tubing which may be welded together and of sufficient strength for load bearing purposes. However other suitable reinforcing material may be used, as appreciated by those skilled in the art. As can be seen in Figure RSS, ribs RSS16 may be fixed to the frame RSS12 in an alternating 35 manner whereby ribs RSS116 are placed either side of bracing member RSS14. 25 Additionally, should an internal staircase be required as discussed above, a portion of a rib RSS16 or ribs RSS16, may be omitted from the roof support structure RSS10, to allow for a roof aperture. 5 It is to be understood that a roof support structure may be varied in dimension so as to provide reinforcement for only a portion of the surface area of the roof. It would also be understood that any smaller roof support structure may require that a separate load bearing member, such as a length of rectangular steel tubing be welded to the interior framework so that it spans the interior of a 10 reconfigurable container in order to provide a fixing point for any smaller roof support structure. In a particularly preferred embodiment wherein the container is an ISO shipping container, frame RSS12, bracing RSS14 and ribs RSS16 may be 15 welded to the inside of the shipping container, and to the underside of the roof sheeting corrugations respectively. Alternatively, the roof support structure RSS10, may bolted or fastened to the container side and end walls or roof, using any other conventional means. 20 The Urban Operations Training System The urban operations training system of the present invention allows endless variations of urban terrains to be created through the use of reconfigurable modular containers having inserts. 25 As may be seen from Figure TS, an urban operations training system for personnel may be created by providing a least one reconfigurable modular container to a training site, along with at least one insert. This allows a variety of different training exercises to occur at once, all at the same location. For 30 example, a Home Station Trainer consisting of 2 adjacent reconfigurable modular containers TS10 with various inserts may be set up. This allows for the basic training of individuals and small groups of personnel in accessing and securing urban structures. Using identical reconfigurable modular containers and inserts, at the same time, a larger urban terrain TS12, may be created for the training of 35 small teams. Once personnel are proficient in their basic training, they may progress to working in larger teams to secure a major urban terrain such as 26 TS14, being a configuration created by deploying at least two reconfigurable modular containers and inserts. Such an urban terrain may replicate a known urban environment. For example, aerial photos of a suburb, or market place, or collection of buildings, may be used as a template to realistically re-create the 5 topography of that urban environment using the reconfigurable modular containers and inserts positioned in the required manner. As part of the modular and reconfigurable training system, a further embodiment of the present invention allows for the roof perimeter balustrades 10 described in Figures B and RMC to be used as a barrier wall between adjacent reconfigurable modular containers. Figures BW and BW' illustrate such an embodiment in more detail. In this instance, a pair of balustrades BW12 provide a framework in which to create a 15 removable barrier wall BW70, between adjacent reconfigurable modular containers (RMC1, RMC2). The barrier wall BM70 is completed by the fastening of a solid panel to each of the balustrades BW12 used to create the framework. Typically such a panel may comprise a sheet of timber or metal, or the like, and be fastened to the balustrades BW12 by screws, nuts and bolts or any other 20 appropriate means. The height of the barrier wall BW70, may be adjusted by removing the upper balustrade BW12 to lower the barrier wall BW70. As can be seen from the preferred embodiment of Figure BW', a barrier wall BW'70 is slideable retained in a track of barrier post BP, which in turn is 25 releasably locked to a reconfigurable modular container RMC2. Where the container is the preferred ISO shipping container, the barrier post BP is fastened to a top corner casting CC' of the container RMC2. A lever BW'72 effects the locking or unlocking of a twist lock arrangement between a lug (not shown) and a recess in the corner casting CC' of the container. The track of the barrier post is 30 created by an elongated support strip BW'78 which is fixed to a retaining rail BW'76 and a support rail BW'80 as shown, resulting in a U-shaped cross-section track to receive a balustrade. As a means of stabilising the barrier wall BW'70 against any impact, a barrier post BP may include bracing post BW'82, fixed perpendicular to the support rail in order to assist in squaring up the barrier post 35 BP against a side wall of a container. 27 Figure BP shows a pair of oppositely faced barrier posts (BP1, BP2) according to a preferred form of the invention. Each barrier post (BP1, BP2) consists of an elongated metal support strip BP78, having a dimension equivalent to the height of the reconfigurable modular container. Welded thereto is a 5 retaining rail BP76, and a support rail BP80, both preferably made of rectangular steel tubing, as is bracing post BP82. The retaining rail BP76 and support rail BP80 are spaced apart sufficiently to allow a balustrade to slide in the track created between the two rails BP78 and BP80, (as shown in Figure BW'). Figure BP additionally show the lever BP72, which rotates a lug BP74, adapted to fit into 10 the recess of a corner casting of a preferred ISO shipping container. This creates a releasable twist lock arrangement between a barrier post and the container. External Fencing 15 Where an ISO shipping container is the preferred reconfigurable modular container, Figures EF and EF' illustrate a further embodiment of the urban operations training system comprising an external fence, which may be readily fastened to such a shipping container. 20 Figure EF shows an external fence EF10, including an external fence framework EF12, preferably retaining a corrugated wall EF14, similar to those used for the walls of the shipping container. Whilst ISO shipping containers typically use corrugated steel walls, those skilled in the art would realise that any suitable building or fencing material maybe fastened to the external fence 25 framework EF12 in the known manner. For example, timber panels maybe screwed to the framework. The external fence framework EF12, includes ISO shipping container corner castings CC in each corner of the external frame EF12. Preferably, the height dimension of the external fence EF10 is such that the distance between the outer edge of the respective top and bottom corner casting 30 is consistent with the same height dimension of an ISO shipping container. This allows the external fence EF10, to be directly connected to one or more shipping containers, using the corner castings CC in their known manner. The length of the external fence EF may vary as required. However, in a particularly preferred embodiment the length of such an external fence is less than the overall length of 35 an ISO shipping container to allow the external fence to be stored within the container during transport. 28 Figure EF' shows an external fence EF similar to that described in Figure EF. External fence EF'10 also has an external framework EF'12 with ISO shipping container corner castings CC' fixed at each corner. However, this 5 further embodiment of the invention includes an aperture in corrugated wall EF'14, wherein the aperture has been fitted with an aperture frame AF as previously described. This allows various inserts as described above, to be fitted as required. 10 Deployable infrastructure As would be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the reconfigurable modular containers may be used for a variety of purposes other than transportation and storage uses. Such uses may include the use of containers as 15 temporary accommodation or temporary office facilities. Accordingly, another aspect of the invention relates to a system for providing a deployable temporary infrastructure using reconfigurable modular containers. This system consists of at least two reconfigurable modular 20 containers and inserts for use as short term accommodation and support infrastructure. Environments such as military regions, mining sites, emergency services operations centres, natural disaster evacuation points or the like, often require short term accommodation and other infrastructures such as offices, stores rooms, cool rooms, medical rooms, kitchens, communications centres and 25 ablution or bathroom facilities and the like. The present invention contemplates a system which provides such facilities by fitting out reconfigurable modular containers with the appropriate internal structures. The containers may then be deployed to the appropriate site and 30 configured according the specific requirements of the users. For example, a first reconfigurable modular container having three internal rooms may be fitted out to include a stores room, office room, and private accommodation. A second reconfigurable modular container fitted out as an 35 ablutions block, may be placed adjacent to the first container such that the private accommodation room side wall aperture aligns with a side wall aperture of the 29 second reconfigurable container, creating en suite access. Furthermore a third reconfigurable modular container may be fitted out similar to the first container, and similarly placed adjacent the second container to again create en suite access for the third container. 5 In order to further exemplify the modularity of the system of the present invention as logistical requirements change, the third container may be removed and replaced, for example, by a fourth container fitted out entirely as office rooms. The system allows for the fourth container to be placed adjacent the 10 second container on either side of that container to provide ablutions facilities for the office rooms. According to another embodiment of the present invention, when using reconfigurable modular containers as deployable infrastructure as discussed 15 above, existing inserts such as a door insert, mouse hole insert, or window insert may be modified to accommodate specific equipment, and subsequently be inserted into reconfigurable containers in the manner previously described. For example, a mouse hole insert (as shown in Figure M), may have the solid panelling M47 removed, and replaced with an air-conditioning unit mounted to the 20 frame M42. Typically, the type of equipment that may be mounted onto an insert of the present invention are air-conditioners, dehumidifiers, extraction fans, heaters, lighting equipment, communications equipment, wash-basin facilities, cooking facilities or similar equipment as would be appreciated by those skilled in the art. 25 It is important to note that, as a preferred embodiment results in a container having three equal partitions, each having a side wall aperture centred therein, it is not necessary to position adjacent containers such that the respective ends of the containers are aligned. Multiple containers may lie adjacent, yet off-set from 30 one another and provided they are off-set by a distance of approximately a third or two thirds of the length of the container, the side wall apertures of the respective containers will substantially align to allow internal access between the containers. 35 As shown in Figure AS, multiple reconfigurable modular containers AS10, AS12, and AS 14 for example, may lie adjacent to, yet off-set from one another. 30 In this example container AS 10 is off set from container AS14 so that a side wall aperture AS16 of container AS10 is substantially aligned with a side wall aperture of container AS12. In this manner, it is possible to provide internal access between reconfigurable modular containers AS10, AS12 and AS14 through side 5 wall apertures AS16 and AS 18. Appropriate door, window, mouse hole, or solid wall inserts may then be positioned into the respective side wall apertures according to the design requirements of the user, including additional equipment such as air-conditioners and the like. 10 In order to assist the placement of containers adjacent to each other, the roof and side walls of each container are preferably marked by paint or a strip of tape (or a similar indicator) to show the three equally partitioned sections (again as shown in Figure TS). 15 The system of the present invention therefore provides limitless combinations of reconfigurable modular containers fitted out to the specific requirements of those needing a rapidly deployable infrastructure. As previously discussed, the preferred reconfigurable modular container of 20 the present invention consists of an ISO shipping container modified as described above. As would be understood by those in the art, such shipping containers include an end wall consisting of lockable yet removable end doors. This allows for several further variations to the reconfigurable modular container. 25 In particular, in one embodiment, two reconfigurable modular containers may lie parallel to each other , spaced apart sufficiently such that an end door of each of the two containers maybe open outwardly to approximately 180 degrees until the two end doors are aligned with each other. A metal sleeve, (typically of U shaped cross-section, but not limited thereto) may be placed over the two end 30 doors to hold them open. This creates another barrier or wall as part of the urban terrain, as an alternative to a barrier formed by the use of balustrades. In a further embodiment of the invention, when using the preferred shipping containers, the end walls of the containers may be removed creating an 35 observation point during the training of personnel. 31 Alternatively, the removal of the end doors, creates another access point into a reconfigurable modular container. Consequently a container with the end doors removed (or opened) may be abutted to another reconfigurable modular container so the two containers lie perpendicular to one another. Furthermore, 5 given the dimensions of an ISO shipping container, it is possible according to the present invention to create a structure whereby a container with its end doors removed, may lie perpendicular to a first reconfigurable modular container substantially at the first container's central partition (of three). At the same time, second and third reconfigurable containers may lie adjacent the first container, 10 one either side of the perpendicularly positioned container. In this position, a side wall aperture of the second container will still substantially align with a side wall aperture in a first partition of the first container, and similarly a side wall aperture of a third container will substantially align with a side wall aperture in a third partition of the first reconfigurable container, thereby maintaining internal access 15 between all four containers. Such a construction of containers is particularly useful in providing further modular variations to the deployable infrastructures discussed above. The Method of Urban Operations Training 20 Having regard to Figure RMC, the present invention further relates to method of providing urban operations training using at least one reconfigurable modular container RMC10. The method includes the steps of constructing a simulated urban terrain using at least one reconfigurable container RMC10 25 including at least one side wall aperture (not shown) on at least one side wall. The method further includes the steps of fixing to the at least one side wall aperture, at least one removably retainable insert (such as window insert RMC30, mouse hole insert RMC40,solid wall insert RMC50 or a door insert (not shown)); 30 conducting the training of personnel about the simulated urban terrain created by the at least one container RMC10 holding at least one removably retainable insert (RMC30, RMC40, RMC50); and the step reconfiguring said simulated urban terrain by replacing, or reconfiguring, at least one removable insert (RMC30, RMC40, RMC50), and/or reconfiguring the topography of the urban terrain by 35 removing, or adding at least one reconfigurable modular container RMC10 to the existing urban terrain. 32 By replacing at least one removable insert such as a window insert RMC30 with another after it has been bashed by personnel for example, the method provides for learning by repetition as individuals may repeat the exact same 5 exercise. Alternatively a large number of personnel may be exposed to the same exercise and same urban terrain. By reconfiguring the topography of the urban terrain, through the addition or removal of at least one insert (RMC30, RMC40, RMC50) and/or the addition of at 10 least one reconfigurable container RMC10, (as shown by the broken lines in Figure RMC) the complexity of the exercise may be increased or decreased. The method of the invention therefore has the advantage of increasing the challenge level and maintaining the interest of the personnel undertaking the training. as they may face a different urban terrain for each exercise. By adding more 15 reconfigurable containers RMC10, to the existing environment, more and more personnel may be trained in urban operations training at the same time. In a further embodiment of the method of the present invention an accurate representation of an urban terrain may be replicated by first including the step of 20 gaining a pictorial representation of the topography of a particular urban terrain of interest. (For example an aerial photo of a particular urban terrain such as a suburb or business district may be taken). Subsequently the pictorial representation may be used as a plan to accurately recreate the urban terrain of interest. 25 It is to be understood that the above embodiments have been provided only by way of exemplification of this invention, and that further modifications and improvements thereto, as would be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit of the current invention 30 described and claimed herein. Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step 35 or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps. 33 The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in Australia. 5 34

Claims (48)

1. A reconfigurable modular container comprising a floor, a first side wall, a second side wall, at least one end wall, and a roof substantially covering the 5 floor and extending between the side and end walls; wherein one or more apertures are spaced along said first side wall, and wherein one or more apertures are spaced along said second side wall; and 10 wherein said apertures are configured to removably receive and retain an insert to the respective side walls of the reconfigurable modular container.

2. A reconfigurable modular container according to claim 1 wherein the container further includes an aperture in the roof, which aperture allows personal 15 access.

3. A reconfigurable modular container according to claim 2 wherein the container further includes an internal staircase connected to the aperture in the roof of the container. 20

4. A reconfigurable modular container according to claim 3 wherein the roof of the container is reinforced to carry at least two persons moving about the roof.

5. A reconfigurable modular container according to claim 3 wherein the container 25 further includes an aperture in the floor, which aperture allows personal access.

6. A reconfigurable modular container according to claim 1 wherein the floor of the container includes an aperture, which aperture allows personal access. 30

7. The container of claim 1 wherein the apertures are of equal size.

8. The container of claim 1 wherein the apertures are regularly spaced along said first and second walls. 35 35

9. The container of claim 1 wherein the apertures include frames having a bracket structure arranged for cooperation with a peripheral complementary strip and tab structure provided on the inset, thereby facilitating removable retention of an insert by said apertures. 5

10. The container of claim 9 wherein the respective complementary bracket, strip and tab structure on the aperture and the insert periphery allow removal by manual lifting followed by lateral translation of said insert away from said frame. 10

11.A reconfigurable modular container comprising a floor, a first side wall, a second side wall, a pair of end walls, and a roof substantially covering the floor and extending between the side and end walls; 15 wherein said first side wall includes three equally dimensioned apertures, equally spaced laterally along said first side wall; and each of the three apertures is configured to removably receive and retain an insert to said first side wall; and 20 wherein said second side wall further includes two equally dimensioned apertures, equally spaced laterally along said second side wall; and each of the two apertures is configured to removably receive and retain an insert to said second side wall. 25

12.A reconfigurable modular container according to claim 11 wherein the container further includes an aperture in the roof to allow a person to fit therethrough.

13. A reconfigurable modular container according to claim 12 wherein the 30 container further includes an internal staircase connected to the aperture in the roof of the container.

14.A reconfigurable modular container according to claim 13 wherein the roof of the container is reinforced to withstand at least two persons moving about the 35 roof. 36

15.A reconfigurable modular container according to claim 13 wherein the container further includes an aperture in the floor to allow a person to fit therethrough. 5

16.A reconfigurable modular container according to claim 11 wherein the floor of the container includes an aperture to allow a person to fit therethrough.

17. A reconfigurable modular container according to any of the preceding claims wherein the container comprises an ISO shipping container. 10

18.An urban operations training system for personnel including at least one reconfigurable modular container, wherein said container includes a two side walls, wherein each side wall includes at least one aperture, and 15 wherein each aperture is configured to receive and retain at least one insert; and wherein the system further includes at least one insert adapted to be removably retained in at least one aperture of at least one reconfigurable 20 modular container.

19. The system according to claim 18 wherein the inserts comprises any of the following: a door insert, a window insert, a solid wall insert, a mouse hole insert, a skylight insert, or any combination thereof. 25

20.An urban operations training system according to claims 18 or 19 wherein the system further comprises: at least one reconfigurable modular container having a roof wherein the 30 roof further includes an aperture to allow a person to fit therethrough; and wherein the container includes an internal staircase connected to the aperture in the roof of the container; and 35 at least a second reconfigurable modular container having a floor including an aperture to allow a person to fit therethrough; 37 wherein said second reconfigurable modular container including a floor aperture may be positioned upon said at least one reconfigurable modular container having a roof aperture such that a person may move, via said staircase, 5 from said reconfigurable modular container including a roof aperture to said reconfigurable modular container including said floor aperture.

21.An urban operations training system according to claim 20 wherein the system further includes at least a third reconfigurable modular container, wherein said 10 at least a third reconfigurable modular container includes a roof having a roof aperture to allow a person to fit therethrough; wherein said at least a third container further includes an internal staircase connected to the roof aperture in the roof of said third container; 15 wherein said at least a third container further comprises a floor including a floor aperture to allow a person to fit therethrough; and wherein said urban operations training system allows said at least a third 20 reconfigurable modular container to be positioned between said at least one reconfigurable modular container and said at least a second reconfigurable modular container such that personnel may move from said at least one reconfigurable modular container to said at least a second reconfigurable modular container via the said at least a third reconfigurable modular container. 25

22. An urban operations training system according to claim 21, wherein the system comprises at least two of said at least a third reconfigurable modular containers to stacked upon each other, between said at least a first and said at least a second reconfigurable modular containers. 30

23.An urban operations training system according to any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein the reconfigurable container is an ISO shipping container.

24.A system for aligning side wall apertures of at least two reconfigurable 35 modular containers, wherein each container comprises at least one side wall aperture, and wherein said at least one side wall aperture of each 38 reconfigurable modular container is located along a side wall of each respective container such that when the at least two containers are adjacent one another, said at least one side wall aperture is positioned to align with at least one side wall aperture of at least a second reconfigurable modular 5 container, and internal access may be gained between at least two reconfigurable modular containers.

25.A system for aligning apertures of at least two reconfigurable modular containers, wherein the system comprises at least a first reconfigurable 10 modular container including at least two apertures, and at least a second reconfigurable modular container, including at least one aperture that is alignable with at least one aperture of said at least a first reconfigurable container, to allow internal access between at least two reconfigurable containers when abutted together. 15

26. A system according to claims 24 or 25, wherein the reconfigurable container is an ISO shipping container.

27.A method for providing urban operations training to personnel using at least 20 one reconfigurable modular container, wherein the reconfigurable modular container includes a pair of side walls wherein each side wall further includes at least one aperture, and said aperture is configured to removably receive and retain at least one insert to a side wall of the reconfigurable modular container, wherein the method includes the steps of: 25 constructing a simulated urban terrain using at least one reconfigurable modular container including at least one insert, removably received in at least one aperture of at least one container; 30 conducting the training of personnel about the simulated urban terrain; and reconfiguring said simulated urban terrain by replacing or reconfiguring at least one removable insert, and/or reconfiguring the topography of the urban terrain by removing, or adding at least one reconfigurable modular container 35 to the constructed urban terrain. 39

28.A method according to claim 27, wherein the urban operations training is applied to any one or more of the following: military personnel, emergency services personnel, police, fire services personnel, paramedics, or similar personnel. 5

29. A method according to claim 27, wherein the at least one reconfigurable modular container is an ISO shipping container.

30.A reconfigurable modular container comprising a floor, a first side wall, a 10 second side wall, a pair of end walls, and a roof substantially covering the floor and extending between the side and end walls; wherein the first side wall contains one or more apertures spaced along said first side wall, and wherein the second side wall contains one or more 15 apertures spaced along said second side wall; wherein said apertures are configured to removably receive and retain an insert to the respective side walls of the reconfigurable modular container; 20 wherein said container further includes an aperture in the roof to allow a person to fit therethrough; and wherein said roof further includes at least one releasably retainable balustrade member about at least a portion of the roofs outer perimeter. 25

31.A reconfigurable modular container according to claim 30, wherein said roof further includes at least one releasably retainable balustrade member about the perimeter of the aperture in the roof. 30

32.A reconfigurable modular container according to claims 30 or 31, wherein said at least one balustrade member is configured to receive and retain a second substantially identical balustrade member placed on top of said at least one balustrade member so as to increase the effective height of the balustrade. 40

33. A reconfigurable modular container according to any one of claims 30 to 33, wherein the releasable retainable balustrade includes a panel fixed to said at least one balustrade member to create a solid barrier. 5

34.A reconfigurable modular container according to any one of claims 30 to 33, wherein said container is an ISO shipping container.

35.A barrier wall comprising at least one balustrade removably retained between two spaced apart reconfigurable modular containers, wherein said barrier wall 10 further comprises at least one solid panel fastened to the balustrade, and wherein said at least one balustrade is as adapted to be removable retained on the periphery of a roof of at least one of said containers. 15

36.A system for providing a deployable infrastructure consisting of at least two reconfigurable modular containers and at least one removably retainable insert.

37.A system according to claim 36 wherein the deployable infrastructure is used 20 as any one or more of the following: accommodation facilities, office facilities, ablutions blocks, medical rooms, equipment storage facilities, communications rooms, cool rooms, kitchens or the like.

38. A system according to claim 36 wherein at least one insert contains 25 infrastructure equipment comprising of one or more of the following: an air conditioner, an extractor fan, a de-humidifier, lighting equipment, communications equipment, wash-basin facilities, cooking facilities orheating equipment. 30

39.A system according to any one of claims 36 or 38 wherein at least one reconfigurable container has three equal partitions, each partition having a side wall aperture centred therein.

40.A system according to claim 39 wherein said partitions are walls removably 35 fixed within at least one reconfigurable container. 41

41.A system comprising: a plurality of reconfigurable modular containers, wherein each container includes at least one aperture, said at least one aperture being located such that when reconfigurable modular containers are 5 positioned adjacent to one another, access between the containers is facilitated through the apertures.

42.A system comprising: a first reconfigurable modular container; and 10 at least one further reconfigurable modular container; wherein each container includes at least two apertures, at least one of said two apertures being located such that when the at least one further reconfigurable modular container is placed adjacent to the first reconfigurable modular container, access between the containers is facilitated through the at 15 least one aperture.

43. A reconfigurable modular container substantially as hereinbefore described.

44.An urban operations training system substantially as hereinbefore described. 20

45.A system of aligning at least two reconfigurable modular containers substantially as hereinbefore described.

46.A method for providing urban operations training substantially as hereinbefore 25 described.

47.A barrier wall substantially as hereinbefore described.

48.A system for providing a deployable infrastructure substantially as 30 hereinbefore described. 42