AU2012216279B2 - Modular building - Google Patents

Abstract

C:\NRPortbI\DCC\LJR\4547301_ .DOC-17/O8/12 - 24 A modular building apparatus including a first module defining a first internal volume for providing at least first one living area and a second module defining a second internal volume, the second module being movably mounted to the first module, thereby allowing the second module to moved between a lowered position in which the first module is provided at least in part within the second internal volume and raised position in which the second module is supported by the first module the second internal volume providing at least one second living area. Fig. 1A 113_ _ _ _ _ _ 121 132 131 132 111 '133 Fig. 1A 142 141 120 132 131 132 111 11( Fig.I1B

Description

C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ 1 .DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 - 1 -

MODULAR BUILDING

Background of the Invention [0001] The present invention relates to a modular building and a method of erecting a modular building, and in one example to a modular building incorporating a power supply such as a solar photovoltaic system.

Description of the Prior Art [0002] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that the prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

[0003] It is known to provide modular buildings, in which buildings are made from one or more individual modules, such as shipping containers, or the like. In such scenarios, each module can be adapted to provide one or more rooms of the building, with multiple modules being used in conjunction as required. In these arrangements, modules can be pre-fitted in a factory or other similar construction environment allowing the modules to be transported to a site for deployment.

[0004] Whilst such modular buildings can be used in any situation, they are particularly useful for remote environments. One typical usage is in mining sites where there is a need to rapidly deploy housing and where there is often a shortage of materials and skilled labour to allow construction. In this example, modules can be equipped in a factory, and then delivered to the mine site, where the modules can be used with only minimal additional configuration being required.

[0005] However, existing module arrangements suffer from a number of drawbacks. In particular, they provide only limited living space whilst taking up a relatively large volume during transport, due to the need to deploy the modules in a pre-fabricated state. This limits the capacity of housing that can be provided and the rate at which it can be deployed, particularly in scenarios were access to the site may be limited. C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ 1 .DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 -2- [0006] Additionally, provision of services, such as electricity supplies, can be problematic in remote environments. This represents a problem not only when the modules are being lived in, but can also be problematic during construction, for example if power is required for construction equipment or the like. To address this issue, power infrastructure may need to be constructed prior to modular buildings being deployed, which in turn causes delays and increases the expense in deploying modular buildings.

[0007] Additionally, modifying a shipping container to allow it to be liveable can represent a significant expense, making the use of shipping containers uneconomic.

Summary of the Present Invention [0008] In a first broad form the present invention seeks to provide a modular building including: a) a first module defining a first internal volume for providing at least one first living area; and, b) a second module defining a second internal volume, the second module being movably mounted to the first module, thereby allowing the second module to moved between a lowered position in which the first module is provided at least in part within the second internal volume and raised position in which the second module is supported by the first module the second internal volume providing at least one second living area to thereby provide two living areas, each having a footprint substantially equal to that of a single module.

[0009] Typically the modular building includes a power supply that in use generates electrical power, the electrical power being at least partially used in erecting the modular building.

[0010] Typically the power supply includes at least one of: a) a wind generator; b) a solar photovoltaic panel; and, c) a battery. C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ 1 .DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 -3 - [0011] Typically the power supply is mounted in the second module, and wherein the second module includes a roof opening for deploying at least one of the wind generator and the solar photovoltaic panel.

[0012] Typically the modular building includes a second roof cavity in the second internal volume, the power supply being at least partially contained within the second roof cavity.

[0013] Typically the modular building includes a winch for moving the second module between the lowered and raised positions.

[0014] Typically the winch is mounted in a first roof cavity of the first internal volume, the winch being coupled via a cable and pulley system to the second module.

[0015] Typically the modular building includes at least one third module movably mounted to the first module, thereby allowing the third module to move between a retracted position in which the third module is provided at least in part within the first module and an extended position in which the third module extends laterally from the first module.

[0016] Typically the modular building includes two third modules extending from opposing sides of the first module.

[0017] Typically the third module defines a third internal volume and wherein the third internal volume is at least one of: a) separated from the first internal volume; and, b) contiguous with the first internal volume.

[0018] Typically the modular building includes a winch for moving the at least one third module between retracted and extended positions.

[0019] Typically the modular building includes: a) at least one roof panel movably mounted to the second module, thereby allowing the roof panel to be moved between operative and collapsed positions; and, b) at least one roof support member, wherein in use, the at least roof support member is coupled to the at least one third module when the module is in the extended position, thereby supporting the at least one roof panel in the operative position. C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ 1 .DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 -4- [0020] Typically each module includes: a) a frame; and, b) a number of panels mounted to the frame.

[0021] Typically the panels include at least one of floor, ceiling and wall panels.

[0022] In a second broad form the present invention seeks to provide a modular building including: a) at least one building module; b) a power supply mounted in the building module that generates electrical power in use, the electrical power being at least partially used in erecting the modular building and wherein the power supply includes at least one of: i) a wind generator; and, ii) a solar photovoltaic panel.

[0023] In a third broad form the present invention seeks to provide a method of erecting a modular building, the method including: a) providing a first module defining a first internal volume for providing at least first one living area; and, b) providing a second module defining a second internal volume, the second module being movably mounted to the first module; and, c) moving the second module from a lowered position in which the first module is provided at least in part within the second internal volume and raised position in which the second module is supported by the first module the second internal volume providing at least one second living area, to thereby provide two living areas, each having a footprint substantially equal to that of a single module.

[0024] Typically the method includes using winch to move the second module from the lowered position to the raised position.

[0025] Typically the method includes using a power supply that in use generates electrical power, power supply being provided in at least one of the building modules. C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ 1 .DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 -5 - [0026] Typically the method includes at moving least one third module from a retracted position in which the third module is provided at least in part within the first module to an extended position in which the third module extends laterally from the first module.

[0027] Typically the method includes using a winch for moving the at least one third module between retracted and extended positions.

[0028] Typically the method includes: a) moving at least one roof panel from a collapsed into an operative position; and, b) using at least one roof support member coupled to at least one third module when the module is in the extended position to thereby support the at least one roof panel in the operative position.

Brief Description of the Drawings [0029] An example of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: - [0030] Figure 1A is a schematic end view of an example of a modular building in a lowered position; [0031] Figure IB is a schematic end view of the modular building of Figure 1A in a raised position; [0032] Figure 1C is a schematic plan view of the modular building of Figure 1 A; [0033] Figure ID is a schematic side view of the modular building of Figure 1A in a raised position; [0034] Figure IE is a schematic isometric view of the modular building of Figure 1A in a raised position; [0035] Figure 2A is a schematic end view of a second example of a modular building in a partially erected configuration; [0036] Figure 2B is a schematic end view of the modular building of Figure 2A in an erected configuration; [0037] Figure 2C is a schematic plan view of the modular building of Figure 2A with side modules in retracted positions; C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ l DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 -6- [0038] Figure 2D is a schematic plan view of the modular building of Figure 2A with side modules in extended positions; [0039] Figure 2E is a schematic isometric view of the modular building of Figure 2A in the erected configuration; [0040] Figure 3A is a cross section along the lines A-A of Figure 2D; [0041] Figure 3B is a cross section along the lines B-B' of Figure 2D; [0042] Figure 3C is a cross section along the lines C-C' of Figure 2E; [0043] Figure 3D is a close up schematic view showing how part of the second frame is movably mounted to the first frame; [0044] Figure 4A is a schematic side view of a first example modular building configuration; [0045] Figure 4B is a schematic side view of a second example modular building configuration; [0046] Figure 5A is a schematic plan view of a first example module configuration; and, [0047] Figure 5B is a schematic plan view of a second example module configuration.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments [0048] An example of a modular building will now be described with reference to Figures 1A to IE.

[0049] In this example, the modular building 100 includes a first module 110 defining a first internal volume 112 for providing at least one first living area. The modular building 100 further includes a second module 120 defining a second internal volume 122. The second module 120 is movably mounted to the first module 110, thereby allowing the second module to be moved between a lowered position shown in Figure 1 A, in which the first module 110 is provided at least in part within the second internal volume 122, and a raised position shown in Figure IB, in which the second module 120 is at least partially supported by the first module 110, so that the second internal volume 112 provides at least one second living area.

[0050] Accordingly, in use, the modular building 100 can be transported to a site with the second module 120 in the lowered position. The modular building 100 can then be installed C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ 1 .DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 -7- on site, before the second module 120 is raised and locked into the raised position utilising an appropriate mechanism, so that the modular building 100 defines two living areas.

[0051] Accordingly, the above described arrangement provides two living areas, each having a footprint equal to that of a traditional single module. This allows an increased size of living area to be provided, whilst maintaining the overall volume of the modular building for transport.

[0052] Additionally, the modular building can be largely pre-fabricated, meaning only minimal construction is required onsite, making the construction process cheap and easy to perform even in an absence of skilled labour.

[0053] A number of further features will now be described.

[0054] In one example, the modular building incorporates a power supply for supplying electrical energy. The power supply may be of any appropriate form and can include batteries, a fuel cell, solar photovoltaic panels, wind generators, auxiliary diesel generators, or a combination thereof. In a preferred example, a renewable source of power, such as solar panels and/or a wind generator, is utilised in conjunction with energy storage techniques such as batteries or fuel cells, allowing energy to be generated and stored for use on demand. This allows the building to be self sufficient from a power perspective, as well as to allow the building to be erected autonomously as will be described in more detail below. Additionally, a solar power hot water system may be incorporated.

[0055] In one example, the power supply apparatus is provided in a roof cavity 123 of the second module 120 thereby ensuring that this does not impinge on the second living area 122. However, other arrangements could be used and this is not intended to be limiting.

[0056] In one example, at least a roof of the second module 120 includes solar panels mounted thereon. The solar panels 141 could be mounted in the roof cavity 123, to protect the panels during transport, and then a cover panel removed exposing the solar panels to solar radiation.

[0057] The solar panels 141 can also be movably mounted to the second module 120, allowing the solar panels 141 to be positioned so as to optimise exposure of the solar panel to C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_l.DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 -8- sunlight. In one example, this is achieved by having the solar panels 141 pivotally mounted to the second module 120, with the panels being held at a predefined a tilt angle by a panel support 142. It will be appreciated that the tilt angle can be selected based on the latitude at which the modular building is provided, to maximise incident solar radiation. The solar panels 141 may also be provided in a north-south alignment to maximise solar radiation incident thereon, as will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art. The panels 141 are shown tilted relative to the width of the second module, but it will be appreciated that this is not essential, and alternative configurations could be used.

[0058] In this example, as soon as the modular building 100 is delivered to site, it begins generating electrical energy which can be stored for later use. In one particular example, this allows the modular building 100 to act as a power supply for use during construction. For example, this can be used to operate power tools, provide lighting or meet other power requirements. Whilst it will be appreciated that the power generated by any one particular modular building may be small, this is typically sufficient to allow the modular building to be constructed and completed, with power then further being available for use in constructing subsequent building modules if required.

[0059] It will be appreciated that this allows the modular building 100 to be deployed in locations where power is unavailable.

[0060] The first and second modules may be movably mounted next to each other utilising any appropriate coupling technique. This can include, for example, mounting support rails on the first modular building or alternatively utilising a part of the frame of the first or second modular building to define guides for directing movement of the two modules relative to each other, as will be described in more detail below. The first and second modules 110, 120 may also be locked into either the raised or lowered position, utilising locking pins, connecting bolts, or the like, which operate to interconnect the first and second frames 111, 121 at appropriate locations, as will be described in more detail below.

[0061] Relative movement of the first and second modules may be achieved in any one of a number of manners. For example, it is typical for the modular building 100 to be delivered to a site utilising a transport vehicle, such as a lorry or the like. Lifting apparatus, such as a C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ 1 .DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 -9- crane, may be utilised to remove the module from the transport vehicle and position this on site. In this example, the lifting apparatus could also be used to lift the second module 120. To achieve this, it would be typical to remove locking pins which lock the first and second modules 110, 120 together in the lowered position for transport, lift the second module 120 using the crane, and then use the locking pins to lock the second module 120 in the raised position.

[0062] However, in a further example, the modular building 100 includes an in-built lifting system. In one example, this includes a winch 131 and pulleys 132, which are typically mounted in roof cavity 113 of the first module 110. One or more cables 133 extend from the winch 131, around the pulleys 132, and is coupled to a lower portion second module 120, thereby allowing the second module 120 to be lifted into position.

[0063] Whilst a single winch 131 may be used, in the current example four winches 131 and respective sets of pulleys 132 are shown, allowing the weight of the second module 120 to be distributed between the four pulleys. This reduces the power requirements of any one winch, allowing smaller, less bulky, winch arrangements to be used, which in turn makes the winch system cheaper and easier to manufacture, install and maintain. In this example, the winches 131 are mounted in a vertical orientation, but this is not intended to be limiting, and any suitable configuration could be used.

[0064] It will be appreciated that in the current example, the winches 131 can be powered by the inbuilt power supply, allowing the second building module 120 to be raised under inbuilt power, there avoiding the need for external lifting apparatus or power supplies if these are not available. In this example, with the power supply apparatus being provided in the second roof cavity 123 and the winches in the first roof cavity, it will be appreciated that in built wiring may be provided extending between the modules.

[0065] Additionally, electronic processing devices, such as an inbuilt controller, can be used to selectively activate the winches, allowing the second module to be raised autonomously, for example when sufficient power is available.

[0066] The building modules may be of any appropriate form. In one example, the first and second building modules 110, 120 include respective first and second frames 111, 121. The C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_l.DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 -10- frames may be constructed from lightweight RHS (Rectangular Hollow Section) or C-shaped steel beams, or similar, interconnected in an arrangement of upright posts 111.1, 121.1 and lateral interconnecting support beams 111.2, 121.2. In this example, the first building module frame 111 has a generally rectangular cuboid shape, whereas the second module frame 121 has generally elongate upturned U-shape allowing this to be positioned over the first module 110. It will be appreciated that in this configuration, a roof of the first module 110 acts as the floor of the second module 120. The first and second frames 111, 121 also define respective roof cavities from parallel spaced apart arrangements of lateral members extending width wise across the frames, as shown.

[0067] The frames 111, 121 typically support panels including floor, ceiling and wall panels. The panels may be of any appropriate form and can include fibre cement sheet, metal clad foam, and/or other suitable building materials. The panels may also include additional properties such as providing thermal insulation and/or fire retardant capabilities. The panels may also further include building features, such as windows, doors, or the like.

[0068] The panels may be fitted to the frame 111, 121 prior to transport or upon arrival at the site, depending on the preferred arrangement. Additionally, the building may be manufactured with inbuilt fittings, fixtures, or furniture, reducing workloads required in completing the building on-site. Whilst this is not necessarily possible with the second building module, due to the second internal volume 122 containing the first module 110 during transport, all fixtures and fittings required for the second building module 120 could be contained within the first building module 111 during transport, thereby removing the need for additional transport.

[0069] The overall size of the building module is typically similar to that of a shipping container. Thus, it will be appreciated that the second module frame 121 is generally shipping container size with the first module frame 111 being slightly smaller. It will be appreciated, however, that other sizes can be used and reference to a shipping container is not intended to be limiting although it is particularly advantageous as transport vehicles exist for easily transporting these to remote locations. In one example, when arranged for transport the building module can be slightly wider than a standard shipping container, at up to 3.5m, as C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ 1 .DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 - 11 - this increases the living area footprint whilst allowing the modular building to be easily transported without requiring special provisions, such as police escorts, or the like.

[0070] A further example of a modular building will now be described with reference to Figures 2A to 2E.

[0071] In this example, the modular building 200 again includes first and second building modules 110, 120 which are generally similar to the first and second modules described above and which will not therefore be described in any further detail.

[0072] In this example, however, the modular building further includes at least one third building module 210. In this example, two third building modules 210.1, 210.2 are shown which act as side modules and are adapted to move between a retracted position, in which the third modules 210 are provided at least in part within the first module 110, and an extended position in which the third modules 210.1, 210.2 extend laterally outwardly from the first module 110. In this example, two side modules are shown extending from opposing sides of the first module although this is not essential and other arrangements may be used.

[0073] In the current example, each of the third modules 210.1, 210.2 are formed from three respective third module frames 211.1, 211.2, 211.3, 211.4, 211.5, 211.6 so that the modular building includes six third module frames as shown in Figures 3D and 3E. The third module frames may again be formed from RHS or C-section beams interconnected as vertical support posts and lateral support beams. Each third module has a generally U-shaped configuration provided on its side, so that the third modules 210.1, 210.2 define respective internal volumes 212. The third internal volumes 212.1, 212.2 can be provided contiguous with the first internal volume 112, although this is not essential and the internal volumes may be separated through the use of appropriate panelling.

[0074] The use of individual frames 211.1, 211.2, 211.3, 211.4, 211.5, 211.6 allows the frames 211.1, 211.2, 211.3, 211.4, 211.5, 211.6 to be extended between upright support posts 111.1 of the first frame 111. This also allows the frames 211.1, 211.2, 211.3, 211.4, 211.5, 211.6 to be used to define individual separate areas, or alternatively, by interconnecting panels between the frames 211.1, 211.2, 211.3, 211.4, 211.5, 211.6, this allows the first and C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ 1 .DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 - 12- second building modules 210.1, 210.2 to define single respective internal volumes 212.1, 212.2.

[0075] The third frames 211.1, 211.2, 211.3, 211.4, 211.5, 211.6 can be adapted to be extended utilising any appropriate technique. In one example, this could be achieved manually by having one or more people pull the third modules outwardly from the first module, or alternatively could be achieved utilising a winch and pulley system. In one example, this can be achieved using one or more winches 231 attached to the third module frames via cables 233, wound round respective pulleys 232. In one example, the winch 231 is the same winch 131 that is used for raising the second module 120, with the winch 131 being used to selectively either raise the second module, or extend the third modules outwardly which it will be appreciated must be performed once the second module has been raised into position.

[0076] In this example, the modular building 200 further includes at least one roof panel 220, with two roof panels 220.1, 220.2 being shown in this example. The roof panels are movably mounted to the second module 120, via roof support beams 221.1, 221.2, allowing the roof panels 220.1, 220.2 to be moved between an operative position, in which the panels 220.1, 220.2 and roof support beams 221.1, 221.2 lie flush against a side of the second module 120, and a raised position shown in Figure 3B, in which the roof panels 220.1, 220.2 are supported by one or more respective support members 222.1, 222.2, which are coupled to the third modules 310 to support the roof panels 220.1, 220.2 in the raised position. This can be used to define further living areas 222.1, 222.2 provided above the third modules 211.1, 210.2, and on either side of the second module 120.

[0077] In this example, the roof support beams 221.1, 221.2 are hingeably mounted to an upper comer connecting the sides and roof of the second module 120, with the support members 222.1, 222.2 being pivotally mounted to the roof support beams 221.1, 221.2. In this example, as the third modules 210 are extended outwardly from the first module 110, as shown by the arrow 251 in Figure 2A, the roof panels 220 and roof support beams 221.1, 221.2, move pivotally outwards as shown by the arrow 252. Once the third modules are fully extended, as shown on the right hand side in Figure 2A, the roof panels 220 can then be pushed upwards and the support members 222 swung into position as shown by the arrow C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ 1 .DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 - 13- 252, thereby supporting the roof panels 220 in position. The living areas 222.1, 222.2 could be enclosed through the use of suitable panels, or alternatively could be left open to provide a veranda.

[0078] It will be appreciated that the roof panels 220 can also be used to support solar photovoltaic panels, thereby further increasing the ability of the modular building 200 to generate electrical power.

[0079] It will be appreciated that the above-described arrangement can therefore further increase the effective living area provided within the volume of a single shipping container.

[0080] It will be appreciated that the above-described examples are schematic and do not necessarily show exact details of how the building modules are configured or interconnected, or exact relative dimensions. Additional details of example configurations will now be described with reference to Figures 3A to 3D. It will be appreciated that these configurations are for the purpose of example only and are not intended to be limiting.

[0081] In this example, the first frame includes a floor 301, a ceiling 302 and a roof 303. The floor 301 is made of first and second panels 301.1, 301.2 having support beams 301.3 positioned therebetween, the support beams defining apertures for receiving lateral support beams 311.2 of the third frames 211. The floor is typically supported above the ground by a support beam 301.4, with corresponding feet 311.3 being provided on the frame of the third modules. In one example, the feet can be lifted, during deployment of the third module, to prevent these engaging with the ground and preventing movement of the third module.

[0082] The ceiling 302 and roof 303 are similarly made of first and second ceiling and roof panels 302.1, 302.2, 303.1, 303.2 having support beams 302.3, 302.3 positioned therebetween, the support beams defining apertures for receiving lateral support beams 311.2 of the third frames 211. The roof and ceiling are spaced apart so as to define the roof cavity 113, which in use can contain the winches, as well as services, such as an electrical wiring, lighting or the like.

[0083] It will be appreciated that the floor, ceiling and roof panels can be made of any appropriate material, such chipboard, fibre cement sheet, metal clad foam, or the like. The C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ 1 .DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 - 14- lateral support beams 311.2 may also be mounted on or include integrated rollers, or use other friction reducing mechanisms, such as low friction coatings, to facilitate their movement relative to the first module 110.

[0084] Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above arrangement allows the third modules to be slideably mounted within the first module so that these can be extended outwards as shown in Figure 3C.

[0085] In the above example, the frame of the third module 210.2 and the upright support posts 111.1 are shown in dotted lines as these are offset from the plane of the cross section.

[0086] An example of the arrangement of the first and second upright support posts is shown in Figure 3D. In this example, the lateral support beams 111.21, 111.22 of the first frame are shown, with a first upright support post 111.1 of the first frame 111 being shown coupled to an outer side of the lateral support member 111.22 that extends along the length of the first frame 111. In this example, the first support post 111.1 is in the form of a C-section beam, arranged with an opening facing outwards. A second upright support post 121.1 of the second frame, also in the form of a C-section beam, is positioned outwardly of the first upright support post 111.1, with the opening of the beam facing inward, to define a cavity within the first and second upright support beams. This cavity can be used to contain electrical cabling or the like for transferring power between the first and second modules 110, 120.

[0087] The lateral support beams 111.21, which extend widthwise across the first module frame 111, extend outwardly beyond the lateral support beam 111.22, with a respective lateral support beam 111.21 extending along opposing sides of the upright support posts 111.1, 121.1. This arrangement guides movement of the second upright support post 121.1 as the second module 120 is raised. Locking bolts 360 can be provided extending through apertures in the lateral support beams 111.21 and the second upright support post 121.1, thereby allowing the second upright support posts 121.1 to be locked to the lateral support beams 111.21 once positioned at a desired height. Similar connections may also be used to ensure that the first upright supports 111.1 are attached to the lateral support beams 111.21. C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_l.DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 - 15- [0088] It will be appreciated that the above example arrangements are for the purpose of illustration only and are not intended to be limiting and that in practice a number of different arrangements of modules can be provided.

[0089] In the example of Figure 4A, the second module 120 supports a sloped roof 440, to allow for rain run off. In this example, guttering may also be provided on the roof, together with downpipes, to allow for water collection in water storage vessels (not shown), allowing this to be stored for later re-use.

[0090] In the example of Figure 4B, the second module 120 is offset along the length of the first module 110. Such an arrangement can be implemented by initially providing the second module 120 aligned with the first module, as per the previous examples. The second module is initially moved along the length of the first module 110, for example by sliding this using an inbuilt winch or similar. Following this the second modules is raised, for example using the arrangement described above. This can be performed to create an outside veranda 450, as well as an under cover area, for example for use as a car port 460, or the like.

[0091] In the example of Figure 5A, the internal living area of the first module 110, is divided into three rooms 501, 502, 503, which could for example act as a living room, kitchen and bedroom with en-suite bathroom, or the like. Such arrangements can be achieved by providing internal wall panelling within the living area 111 using techniques known in the art.

[0092] In the example of Figure 5B, the first module 110 is shown including two side modules 210.1, 210.2 that extend along only part of the length of the first module 110. This highlights how different arrangements of third modules can be used to provide a variety of different room configurations.

[0093] It will be appreciated that the above described modular building can therefore be arranged to provide a number of different configurations. This is particularly desirable where a number of different building modules are used on a particular site as the use of different arrangements allows the buildings to have different appearances, which is generally desirable. Additionally, the buildings can include different external appearances through the use of cladding or different panels. Additionally other aesthetic features may be incorporated C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ 1 .DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 - 16- as desired, such as through the use of cantilevered end sections to provide covered entrances to the lower floors, extensions for end rooms, or the like.

[0094] In one example, the footprint of each living area is approximately 40 m2, meaning the modular building can provide living configurations of up to 240 m2 for example using the arrangement of Figures 2 A to 2E. It will be appreciated that this can accommodate a number of individuals, such as a family or the like. However, additional living area could be provided, for example, third modules could be provided to extend from ends of the first module, thereby providing additional living space.

[0095] Accordingly, the above described modular building can include multiple modules that can be moved between retracted or lowered and extended or raised positions, thereby providing an expanded living area. The modules can be constructed in a factory, using high volume manufacturing techniques, allowing the modules to be manufactured cheaply and rapidly. The modules can be partially equipped within the factory, reducing the need for skilled labour when the building is provided onsite. This process can involve integrating external panels, interior fixtures and fittings, electrical wiring, a power supply and winch mechanism for use in erecting the building. The modular building can then be transported in a transport configuration with the modules retracted, allowing this to be easily transported to even remote environments.

[0096] Once delivered, the modular building can be provided on a suitably prepared ground, with solar panels 141 being optionally deployed so that the modular building commences generating energy. The second module can then be raised and locked into position. In one example, this is performed using the in-built winch system using electricity generated by the solar panels. Following this, any third modules can be extended, and side roof panels raised into position.

[0097] It will be appreciated that this process can be completed using only minimal labour, and without requiring the use of an external power supply, thereby making the erection process suitable for performing in off-grid scenarios. Once the building is erected, the solar panels can generate sufficient power to meet the requirements of occupants, as well as to provide electricity for re-charging electric vehicles. This makes the arrangement particularly C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ 1 .DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 - 17- suitable for remote locations, but which can also be used in other situations, such as normal family housing environments.

[0098] Accordingly, the above described arrangements provide sustainable solar powered autonomous multi-use housing capsule designed to be cost effectively manufactured and to be cost effectively powered and serviced solely by solar energy and incorporating energy and water harvesting and storage systems cost effectively.

[0099] It will be appreciated that whilst a number of different examples are outlined above, features of the different arrangements can be used in conjunction or independently, as required.

[0100] The above described arrangements can utilise in built electronic control systems to allow the building to be erected substantially autonomously. Such in built controllers can subsequently operate to control operation of the module, for example to control operation of the power supply arrangements.

[0101] It will also be appreciated that the above described arrangements, as well as being expandable could be returned to a collapsed position if required. This might be needed, for example, if the modular building is to be re-transported, or in the event that it is desired to protect the building from adverse environmental conditions, such as cyclones, hurricanes, bush fires, or the like.

[0102] The above described arrangements embody numerous improvements over previous modular system and the solar arrangements, such as a sun tracking rotating roof. This solar powered lightweight "modular sustainable capsule" as designed is effective for community habitation where water, energy, utilities and services are not readily or immediately available. The standard base module is designed to provide occupants with sustainable energy and water for kitchen and bathroom appliances.

[0103] The above described arrangements address the current need for the basic, affordable, sustainable, permanent and temporary accommodation in a novel sustainable form suitable for emergency and or permanent use. The capsules light weight, ensures it is cost effectively deployable for volume manufacture as a temporary or for numerous residential and C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ 1 .DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 - 18- commercial applications with an expected minimum life expectancy of 25 years whilst producing zero emissions.

[0104] The above described arrangements allow novel and rapid assembly of reliable components to service and control appropriate appliances. The modules are of specific dimensions and may be attached in numerous configurations utilizing appropriate service ducts. The capsule has minimum impact on bio-diversity and is adaptable to utilize new and emerging sustainable technology in novel ways.

[0105] The above described arrangements are focused on Agenda 21 sustainable principals, which encourage utilization of natural regrowth materials and the integration of both new and appropriate technology to power the capsules in a manner which can replace the need for connection to fossil fuelled powered utilities to reduce emissions.

[0106] Water and energy storage is provided effectively, affordably with no emissions. The above described arrangements will ensure that new emerging technology in "clean energy communities" is available and affordable where grid utilities are not mandatory or available the only limitations are the availability of water and sunlight for sustainable living.

[0107] The above described arrangements can integrate solar powered sustainable utilities in a novel manner the adaptability for remote areas is enhanced by the purpose designed novel expandable transportable capsule. The above described arrangements seek to minimise emissions and amount of embodied energy used in manufacture, assembly, delivery process in novel ways and ensures the carefully selected components are renewable, recycle-able, durable, available to industry and affordable.

[0108] The above described arrangements can help the selection and adaptation of the most appropriate technology to power the various components in the expandable capsule to facilitate the various "micro climates" using appropriate energy efficient "Climate Smart" "fit outs".

[0109] Controllers can activate novel fenestrations and roof in the capsule in novel ways by thermal, light and or electrical sensors to ensure the internal temperature is comfortable and optimised for the occupants. The purpose is to ensure comfort whilst reducing energy use in C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ 1 .DOC-17/08/12 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 - 19- lighting, heating and cooling to ensure the capsule's comfort zone is able to be adapted to the particular micro climate where ever the dwelling is located.

[0110] The above described arrangements can sustainably integrate the household utilities for energy generation and storage, water harvesting, storage and water reuse for specific food garden and aquaculture as may be provided and as required for sustainable living. The energy and water technology employed is purpose designed for energy efficiency is complimentary to the natural environment using existing technology and appliances in sustainable ways to ensure the protection of bio-diversity.

[0111] The above described arrangements can allow for the selection and manufacture process of appliances and installation of the appropriate energy efficient appliances now a critical part of habitation. The module's research to effectively and affordably minimise energy and water usage from kitchen and bathrooms.

[0112] Finally the solar capsule dwelling's photovoltaic energy system can be some 20-40% more efficient when fitted with a "sun tracking" roof in a novel maimer, this roof provides an additional 20- 40% energy efficiency over a minimum roof area and assists charging the batteries of an electric car if and when sufficient roof space is not made available for Photovoltaic cells by a static support structure. This allows the module to be provided for both minimum purchase and minimum running cost for both the home and electric car whilst achieving zero emissions. The above described arrangements can link diverse research in novel ways for commercialization as an affordable product in the public interest profitably. Reference is made to a multinational challenge in INOVATION the SOLAR DECATHLON and THE U.N. Agenda 21 [0113] The Challenge: 20 universities in USA, Spain, Germany and New Zealand Universities evidences awareness of a global need for affordable, zero-emission housing. The Solar Decathlon challenges some 10 faculties from a selected 20 Universities to Collaboratively design, construct and demonstrate a 20 well researched autonomous solar powered home designs required also to demonstrate ability to power a zero emission electric car. 2012216279 13 Apr 2017 C:\NRPortbl\DCC\LJR\4547301_ 1 .DOC-17/08/12 -20- [0114] To focus on novel collaborative investigative design needed to reduce global warming.

[0115] Throughout this specification and claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise”, and variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0116] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous variations and modifications will become apparent. All such variations and modifications which become apparent to persons skilled in the art, should be considered to fall within the spirit and scope that the invention broadly appearing before described.

Claims (20)

1. THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS: 1) A modular building including: a) a first module defining a first internal volume for providing at least one first living area; and, b) a second module defining a second internal volume, the second module being movably mounted to the first module, thereby allowing the second module to moved between a lowered position in which the first module is provided at least in part within the second internal volume and raised position in which the second module is supported by the first module the second internal volume providing at least one second living area to thereby provide two living areas, each having a footprint substantially equal to that of a single module.
2. 2) A modular building according to claim 1, wherein the modular building includes a power supply that in use generates electrical power, the electrical power being at least partially used in erecting the modular building.
3. 3) A modular building according to claim 2, wherein the power supply includes at least one of: a) a wind generator; b) a solar photovoltaic panel; and, c) a battery.
4. 4) A modular building according to claim 3, wherein the power supply is mounted in the second module, and wherein the second module includes a roof opening for deploying at least one of the wind generator and the solar photovoltaic panel.
5. 5) A modular building according to any one of the claims 2 to 4, wherein the modular building includes a second roof cavity in the second internal volume, the power supply being at least partially contained within the second roof cavity.
6. 6) A modular building according to any one of the claims 1 to 5, wherein the modular building includes a winch for moving the second module between the lowered and raised positions.
7. 7) A modular building according to claim 6, wherein the winch is mounted in a first roof cavity of the first internal volume, the winch being coupled via a cable and pulley system to the second module.
8. 8) A modular building according to any one of the claims 1 to 7, wherein the modular building includes at least one third module movably mounted to the first module, thereby allowing the third module to moved between a retracted position in which the third module is provided at least in part within the first module and an extended position in which the third module extends laterally from the first module.
9. 9) A modular building according to claim 8, wherein the modular building includes two third modules extending from opposing sides of the first module.
10. 10) A modular building according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the third module defines a third internal volume and wherein the third internal volume is at least one of: a) separated from the first internal volume; and, b) contiguous with the first internal volume.
11. 11) A modular building according to any one of the claims 8 to 10, wherein the modular building includes a winch for moving the at least one third module between retracted and extended positions.
12. 12) A modular building according to any one of the claims 8 to 11, wherein the modular building includes: a) at least one roof panel movably mounted to the second module, thereby allowing the roof panel to be moved between operative and collapsed positions; and, b) at least one roof support member, wherein in use, the at least roof support member is coupled to the at least one third module when the module is in the extended position, thereby supporting the at least one roof panel in the operative position.
13. 13) A modular building according to any one of the claims 1 to 12, wherein each module includes: a) a frame; and, b) a number of panels mounted to the frame, wherein the panels include at least one of floor, ceiling and wall panels.
14. 14) A method of erecting a modular building, the method including: a) providing a first module defining a first internal volume for providing at least one first living area; and, b) providing a second module defining a second internal volume, the second module being movably mounted to the first module; and, c) moving the second module from a lowered position in which the first module is provided at least in part within the second internal volume and raised position in which the second module is supported by the first module the second internal volume providing at least one second living area, to thereby provide two living areas, each having a footprint substantially equal to that of a single module.
15. 15) A method according to claim 14, wherein the method includes using winch to move the second module from the lowered position to the raised position.
16. 16) A method according to claim 15, wherein the method includes using a power supply that in use generates electrical power, power supply being provided in at least one of the building modules.
17. 17) A method according to any one of the claims 14 to 16, wherein the method includes at moving least one third module from a retracted position in which the third module is provided at least in part within the first module to an extended position in which the third module extends laterally from the first module.
18. 18) A method according to claim 17, wherein the method includes using a winch for moving the at least one third module between retracted and extended positions.
19. 19) A method according to any one of the claims 14 to 18, wherein the method includes: a) moving at least one roof panel from a collapsed into an operative position; and, b) using at least one roof support member coupled to at least one third module when the module is in the extended position to thereby support the at least one roof panel in the operative position.
20. 20) A modular building including: a) a first module defining a first internal volume for providing at least one first living area; and, b) a second module defining a second internal volume, the second module being movably mounted to the first module, thereby allowing the second module to moved between a lowered position in which the first module is provided at least in part within the second internal volume and raised position in which the second module is supported by the first module, and wherein a roof of the first module acts as a floor of the second module so that the second internal volume providing at least one second living area to thereby provide two living areas, each having a footprint substantially equal to that of a single module.