AU2024201374A1

AU2024201374A1 - Provision of waterproofing and sheltering in modular buildings

Info

Publication number: AU2024201374A1
Application number: AU2024201374A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Shaun O'donnell; Carlo Paneni; Daemon ZIRBEL
Original assignee: Ausco Modular Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Ausco Modular Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2019-11-29
Filing date: 2024-02-29
Publication date: 2024-03-21
Also published as: AU2020277259B2; AU2020277259A1

Abstract

A cover, for use in a modular building which comprises first, second, third and fourth building modules and in which: in a first pair of modules, comprising the first building module and the second building module, the first and second building modules are arranged one-beside-the-other along a first axis; in a second pair of modules, comprising the second building module and the third building module, the second and third building modules are arranged one-beside-the-other along a second axis, the second axis being perpendicular to the first axis; in a third pair of building modules, comprising the first building module and the fourth building module, the first and fourth building modules are arranged one-beside-the-other along a third axis, the third axis being parallel to the second axis and perpendicular to first axis; and in a fourth pair of building modules, comprising the third building module and the fourth building module, the third and fourth building modules are arranged one-beside-the-other along a fourth axis, the fourth axis being parallel to the first axis and perpendicular to the second and third axes, whereby there is an intersection between a boundary between the first and fourth pairs of modules and a boundary between the second and third pairs of modules, the cover being located or locatable to cover the intersection to preclude ingress of water at the intersection. 35599721 Abstract(25411366.1).docx

Description

Provision of waterproofing and sheltering in modular buildings

[0001] The invention relates to provision of waterproofing/sheltering for modular buildings. Preferred embodiments of the invention relate to covers for modular buildings. Incorporated herein by reference are the disclosures of the complete specification of Australian patent application no. 2020277259 both as originally filed and as accepted, i.e. publications AU2020277259A1 and AU2020277259B2 respectively.

[0002] Modular buildings comprise lightweight modules that are used to construct buildings. These modular buildings can be erected quickly and efficiently than in situ-constructed buildings. These modular buildings can also, advantageously, be relocatable and constructed with a relatively high degree of repeatability in terms of quality control.

[0003] In general, modular buildings comprise one or more transportable modules manufactured and at least partially fitted out in a factory environment. The modules are then joined together, once on site, to form the final building. Typically, there is a need to waterproof over, or otherwise sufficiently preclude water ingress into, a gap orjunction between adjacent modules in the building, particularly at the building roof but also possibly at an outer wall of the building. Appropriate provisioning to that end is one of the final steps in the formation of the modular building. In a similar way, the gaps or junctions between the external walls of the buildings will also require provisioning to preclude water ingress.

[0004] One current technique of waterproofing over gaps or junctions between building modules requires workers to apply a cover that overlies the gap or junction between the building modules. The successful application of the cover depends on three elements. Firstly, the cover must be precisely positioned and fitted to prevent ingress of wind, rain or dust. Secondly, the cover must be secured in place along its length. Thirdly, if thejoin is long, it may be necessary that the cover be formed byjoining several elements end-to-end to cover the entire gap or junction between the building modules. Particularly where the waterproof join is to be applied over a roof gap orjunction, the current technique not only requires construction to work at height (including directly on the building roof), exposing them to falling hazards, but also requires significant effort and time.

[0005] Having construction workers on the roof of a building generally necessitates the use of scaffolding and/or other safety precautions, in line with current safety rules and regulations. Assembly and disassembly of scaffolding and other safety procedures involved with constructions workers operating at height incurs cost, complexity and time consumption.

[0006] Further, in spite of the stringent precautions and regulations surrounding the safe working of construction workers at height, the very practice of being on the roof embodies danger.

[00071 In this context, there is a need for improved waterproofing systems or to at least provide a waterproofing system that provides the public with a useful choice.

[0007A] A first aspect of the present invention provides a cover, for use in a modular building which comprises first, second, third and fourth building modules and in which: in a first pair of modules, comprising the first building module and the second building module, the first and second building modules are arranged one-beside-the-other along a first axis; in a second pair of modules, comprising the second building module and the third building module, the second and third building modules are arranged one-beside-the-other along a second axis, the second axis being perpendicular to the first axis; in a third pair of building modules, comprising the first building module and the fourth building module, the first and fourth building modules are arranged one-beside-the-other along a third axis, the third axis being parallel to the second axis and perpendicular to first axis; and in a fourth pair of building modules, comprising the third building module and the fourth building module, the third and fourth building modules are arranged one-beside-the-other along a fourth axis, the fourth axis being parallel to the first axis and perpendicular to the second and third axes, whereby there is an intersection between a boundary between the first and fourth pairs of modules and a boundary between the second and third pairs of modules, the cover being located or locatable to cover the intersection to preclude ingress of water at the intersection.

[0007B] The cover may be mounted or mountable on a said building module to be so located or locatable.

[0007C] The cover may be engaged or engageable with a section of a said building module to be so located or locatable.

[0007D] The cover may be located or locatable at or near a corner of a said building module.

[0007E] The cover may comprise a canopy to cover the intersection. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the canopy is made from flexible material, and the cover includes arms to spread out the canopy. The cover may include a central leg portion from which said arms extend.

[0007F] The cover may be mounted or mountable onto covers, each of which overlies a boundary between adjacent sides of the modules in a respective one of said pairs to preclude ingress of water into the boundary, so as to cover said intersection.

[0007G] The cover may comprise a cover portion, to overlie the intersection, and one or more sealing portions compressible against ones of said modules to form seals therewith.

[0007H] The cover may be configured to cover or provide coverage to an uncovered section of a boundary between the modules of at least one of said pairs.

[00071] The cover may be configured to cover or provide coverage to a respective said uncovered section of a boundary between the modules of each of said first and fourth pairs.

[0007J] The cover may be configured to cover or provide coverage to a respective said uncovered section of a boundary between the modules of each of said second and third pairs.

[0007K] The cover may be configured to cover or provide coverage to a respective said uncovered section of a boundary between the modules of each of said first and second pairs and/or each of said first and third pairs and/or each of said second and fourth pairs and/or said third and fourth pairs.

[0007L] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cover comprises one or more cover portions arranged to overlie said intersection and/or the, each, or at least one said uncovered section.

[0007M] A second aspect of the present invention provides a building module provided with or including a cover according to the first aspect, the building module being one of said building modules, wherein the cover is located or locatable to cover the intersection when the modules are arranged in said pairs.

[0007N] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the building module is said fourth building module and positionable in location, relative to the first module arranged in said first pair and the third module arranged in said second pair, such that the cover is so located or locatable.

[00070] A third aspect of the present invention provides a modular building, comprising said modules and including: a cover according to the first aspect; or a module according to the second aspect, provided with or including a said cover, wherein the cover is located to cover the intersection to preclude ingress of water at the intersection.

[0007P] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first, second and third building modules are positioned such that the first and second modules are arranged in said first pair and the second and third building modules are arranged in said second pair, the method comprising positioning said fourth building module in location, relative to the first module arranged in said first pair and the third module arranged in said second pair, such that the cover is located or locatable to cover the intersection to preclude ingress of water at the intersection.

[0008] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a cover for a boundary between adjacent sides of building modules arranged one-beside-the-other, the cover comprising at least one cover portion and being supported or supportable via one building module such that the at least one cover portion is located to overlie the boundary, and a said cover portion is receivable over the other building module to cover or provide coverage to it, when the building modules are so arranged.

[0008A] A fifth aspect of the present invention provides a cover for a boundary between adjacent sides of building modules arranged one-beside-the-other, the cover comprising at least one cover portion and being part of, integrally formed with, mountable or mounted on, or engaged or engageable with a section of, one building module such that the at least one cover portion is located or locatable to overlie the boundary, and a said cover portion is receivable over the other building module to cover or provide coverage to it, when the building modules are so arranged.

[0008B] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cover includes one or more sealing portions provided on or defined by at least one said cover portion and compressed or compressible against at least one said module to form a seal between the cover portion and module.

[0008C] The at least one sealing portion may comprises at least one deformable elongate member extending along a length of the cover portion.

[0008D] Said at least one deformable elongate member comprises spaced apart first and second deformable elongate members each extending along said length.

[0008E] In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cover is integrally formed with said one building module or said fourth building module.

[0008F] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cover is part of said one building module or said fourth building module.

[0008G] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cover is mounted on said one building module or said fourth building module. The cover may include a mounting member via which it is so mounted, the mounting member being secured to a side wall of said one building module or said fourth building module to be located in a said boundary.

[0008H] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cover is compressible against said one module or said fourth module to form a seal therewith.

[00081] The cover according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes one or more sealing portions compressed or compressible against said one or fourth building module to form a seal therewith. Preferably, the one or more sealing portions compressed or compressible against said one or fourth building module comprise one or more deformable elongate members extending along a/the length of the cover portion. Preferably, said one or more deformable elongate members comprise spaced apart first and second deformable elongate members each extending along said length.

[0008J] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cover includes first and second cover portions to compress said one or more sealing portions and said at least one sealing portion, respectively, against said one or fourth building module and said other building module or said first or third building module respectively. Preferably, said one or more sealing portions and said at least one sealing portion are provided on undersides of said first cover portion and said second cover portion respectively. The cover may have a substantially T-shaped cross section, having a central leg that is locatable in the boundary and forms said mounting member, and said first and second cover portions.

[0008K] The, each, or at least one said, sealing portion may comprises a gasket.

[0008L] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cover includes at least one exterior sealing cover or coating compressed or compressible against the, each, or at least one said, module.

[0008M] A sixth aspect of the present invention provides a modular building including a said cover and said building modules arranged one-beside-the-other, wherein at least one said cover overlies a said intersection or a said boundary between adjacent sides of said modules so arranged, being part of, integrally formed with, mounted on, engaged with a section of, or supported via, said one or fourth building module, and at least one cover portion of the cover is received over the, each, or at least one, other module to cover or provide coverage to it.

[0008N] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, said building modules comprise first and second building modules arranged along a first axis, the building includes a further building module and, in addition to said cover, another cover, and the first or second building module and the further building module are arranged one-beside-the-other along a second axis, which intersects with the first axis, the other cover overlies another boundary, which is between adjacent sides of the modules arranged along the second axis, being part of, integrally formed with, mounted on, or engaged with a section of, one of said modules arranged along the second axis, and at least one cover portion of said other cover is received over the other of said modules arranged along the second axis to cover or provide coverage to it.

[00080] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, said building modules are arranged one-beside-the-other and said cover is part of, integrally formed with, mounted on, or engaged with a section of, said one building module, and which includes pressing said at least one cover portion of the cover against, and/or bringing said at least one cover portion into contact with, said other building module whereby said other module is abutted and/or contacted by said cover portion(s) received thereover in the building.

[0008P] Preferably, the method includes positioning either building module relative to the other such that said building modules are so arranged, thereby bringing said at least one cover portion into contact and/or abutment with said other module. The positioning of either module relative to the other may comprise lowering the former next to the latter and/or laterally moving the former.

[0008Q] Preferably, the positioning comprises positioning said one building module next to said other building module.

[0009] The cover may comprise one or more sealing portions compressed or compressible against a section of said one module to form a seal therewith.

[0010] The cover may be compressible against said one building module to form a seal with a section of said one building module.

[0011] Said at least one sealing portion compressible against said other building module may comprise at least one elongate member deformable against said other building module to form the seal therewith.

[0012] The sealing portion(s) for forming the seal with a respective may comprise a first deformable elongate member along a length of the cover, and may further comprise a second deformable elongate member spaced apart from the first deformable elongate member and along a length of the cover. The/each deformable elongate member preferably comprises a gasket.

[00131 The two modules may be first and second building modules. Disclosed herein is a cover for overlying a boundary between adjacent sides of the first building module and a third building module arranged one-beside-the-other, the first and second building modules being arranged along a first axis and the first and third building modules being arranged in a second axis intersecting the first axis, so as to preclude ingress of water into the boundary. This cover may be compressible against the third building module to form a seal with the third building module, and include third sealing portions deformable against the third building module to form one or more seals therewith.

[0014] Disclosed herein is a cover for overlying a boundary between adjacent sides of the third building module and a fourth building module arranged one-beside-the-other, the third and fourth building modules being arranged along a third axis parallel to the first axis, so as to preclude ingress of water into the boundary. This cover may be compressible against the third building module to form a seal with the third building module, and may include fourth sealing portions deformable against the fourth building module to form one or more seals therewith.

[0015] A cover according to a preferred example includes a mounting member locatable in the boundary.

[00161 A cover according to a preferred example has a substantially T-shape cross section, having a central leg that is locatable in the boundary between adjacent sides of two building modules and an upper portion that is compressible against the two building modules. The central leg preferably forms a said mounting member locatable in the boundary.

[0017] A cover according to a preferred example includes sealing portions along at least a part of an edge boundary of the cover, the sealing portions being deformable against an edge of another cover to form a seal therewith.

[0017A] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a modular building including the cover of the first aspect and said building modules arranged one-beside-the-other, wherein said cover overlies a said boundary between adjacent sides of said modules, being part of, integrally formed with, or mounted on said one building module, and said at least one sealing portion is compressed against said other building module, such that ingress of water into the boundary is precluded.

[0017B] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of constructing the modular building of the second aspect, in which said building modules are arranged one-beside-the-other and said cover is part of, integrally formed with, or mounted on said one building module, and which includes compressing said at least one sealing portion of the cover against said other building module.

[0017C] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, said building modules comprise first and second building modules arranged along a first axis, and the building includes a further building module and, in addition to said cover ("first cover"), another cover of the first aspect ("second cover"), the first or second building module and the further building module are arranged one-beside-the-other along an axis intersecting with the first axis ("second axis"), said second cover overlies a boundary between adjacent sides of the modules arranged along the second axis ("other boundary"), being part of, integrally formed with, or mounted on with one of said modules arranged along the second axis, and said at least one sealing portion of the second cover is compressed against the other of said modules arranged along the second axis to form a seal therewith, such that ingress of water into the further boundary is precluded. The method may further include compressing the first cover portion against the first building module to form the seal with said section.

[0018] Disclosed herein is a waterproofing method including: waterproofing a boundary between adjacent sides of first and second building modules arranged one-beside-the-other so as to preclude ingress of water into the boundary using a first cover portion, the first cover portion being engaged or with a section of the first building module, to form a seal with said section, wherein the method of waterproofing the boundary between adjacent sides of first and second building modules includes compressing the first cover portion against the second building module to form a seal with the second building module.

[0019] Said waterproofing method may further include compressing the first cover portion against the first building module to form the seal with said section.

[0020] Waterproofing the boundary between adjacent sides of first and second building modules may include lowering the first building module with the first cover portion engaged therewith next to the second building module such that the first cover portion overlies the boundary between the first and second building modules.

[0021] The waterproofing method may further include: waterproofing a boundary between adjacent sides of first building module and a third building module arranged one-beside-the-other so as to preclude ingress of water into that boundary using a second cover portion, the first and second building modules being arranged along a first axis and the first and third building modules being arranged in a second axis intersecting the first axis, the second cover portion being engaged or engageable with a section of the third building module, to form a seal with said section, waterproofing the boundary between adjacent sides of first and third building modules including compressing the second cover portion against the first building module to form a seal with the first building module.

[0022] The waterproofing method may further include compressing the second cover portion against the third building module to form the seal with said section.

[00231 Waterproofing the boundary between adjacent sides of first and third building modules may include lowering the third building module with the second cover portion engaged therewith next to the first building module such that the second cover portion overlies the boundary between the first and third building modules.

[0024] The waterproofing method may further include waterproofing a boundary between adjacent sides of the third building module and a fourth building module arranged one-beside-the-other so as to preclude ingress of water into the boundary using a third cover portion, and waterproofing a boundary between adjacent sides of the second and fourth building modules arranged one-beside-the other so as to preclude ingress of water into the boundary using a fourth cover portion, the third and fourth building modules being arranged along a third axis that is parallel to the first axis, the third and fourth cover portions being engaged or engageable with sections of the fourth building module, to form a seal with said sections, waterproofing of the boundary between adjacent sides of third and fourth building modules including compressing the third cover portion against the third building module to form a seal with the third building module, and compressing the fourth cover portion against the second building module to form a seal with the second building module.

[0025] The waterproofing method may further include compressing the third and fourth cover portions against the fourth building module to form the seal with said sections.

[00261 Waterproofing the boundary between adjacent sides of third and fourth building modules and waterproofing the boundary between adjacent sides of the second and fourth building modules may include lowering the fourth building module with the second cover portion engaged therewith next to the second and third building modules such that the third and fourth cover portions overlie the boundary between the third and fourth building modules and the boundary between the second and fourth building modules respectively.

[0027] The method may include locating a central waterproofing cover at an intersection of the boundaries between the first, second, third, and fourth building modules, the central cover having a guide member locatable in the intersection and a plurality of arms extending from the guide member for maintaining a coverage provided by the central cover.

[0028] The invention will now be described, by way ofnon-limiting examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1A to 1C show schematic views of covers for waterproofing in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

Figures 2A and 2B show schematic views of a first building module with the waterproofing cover of Figure 1A arranged in relation to a second building module;

Figures 3A and 3B show schematic views of a third building module with the waterproofing cover of Figure lB arranged in relation to the building modules of Figure 2B;

Figures 4A and 4B show schematic views of a fourth building module with the waterproofing covers of Figure 1A to 1C arranged in relation to the building modules of Figure 3B;

Figures 5A and 5B show a schematic view of a fourth building module with waterproofing covers arranged in relation to building modules of Figure 3B in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

Figures 6A to 6C show schematic views of a building module with parapet wall portions;

Figure 7A shows a building module with a waterproofing cover according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 7B and 7C respectively show a perspective-detailed view and a side-detailed views of A of Figure 6A;

Figure 7D shows the waterproofing cover used for the building module shown in Figures 6A to 6C;

Figures 8A to 8D show schematic views of an arrangement of building modules with the waterproofing covers according to embodiments of the present invention;

Figure 9 show an waterproofing cover according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 10 shows a waterproofing cover according to another embodiment of the present invention located in relation to an arrangement of four building modules;

Figure 11 shows a schematic view of four building modules with waterproofing covers according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 12 shows a waterproofing cover located in relation to two building modules according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 13A to 13C show an arrangement of building modules with waterproofing covers according to embodiments of the present invention;

Figure 14 shows an arrangement comprising two building modules and a waterproofing cover precluding ingress of water into a boundary therebetween in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 15A and 15B show the arranging of one building module beside another, whereby a cover supported via the former module overlies a boundary between the modules and is received over the latter module;

Figure 15C shows a cover which may constitute that which is shown in Figures 15A and 15B, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 16A to 16D show covers according to alternative embodiments of the present invention;

Figures 17A to 17C show covers according to alternative embodiments of the present invention;

Figures 18A to 18C show covers according to alternative embodiments of the present invention;

Figures 19A to 19C show variants of what is shown in Figure 6C, including in particular variants of the cover therein, according to alternative embodiments of the present invention; and

Figures 20A to 20C show other variants of covers according to further alternative embodiments of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 1A shows a waterproofing cover 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention for overlying a boundary between adjacent sides of a first building module and a second building module that are arranged one-beside-the-other. The cover 100 is located to overlie the boundary between the first and second building modules so as to preclude the ingress of water into the boundary. As used herein, two building modules that are 'arranged one-beside-the-other' includes building modules that are arranged such that a long side of one building module is adjacent to (or side by-side with) a long side of the other building module, or building modules that are arranged such that a short side of one building module is adjacent to a short side of the other building module, or building modules that are arranged such that a long side one building module is adjacent to a short side of the other building module, or building modules arranged such that a side of one building module is adjacent a side of the other building module.

[00301 The waterproofing cover 100 is for covering a boundary between adjacent sides of the first building and the second building that are arranged such that the long side of the first building is adjacent to the long side of the second building. At sections of this specification, the waterproofing cover 100 is referred to as along cover'.

[00311 The waterproofing cover 100 is an elongate body with a substantially T-shape profile. The upper portion of the body covers the boundary between adjacent sides of the building modules, while the central leg portion of the body is locatable within the boundary. The central leg extends along a length of the body. In other embodiments, the elongate body may have a plurality of central legs that are spaced apart from each other, the legs being arranged along a length of the body and extending from an underside of the body. The body has a length that corresponds to a length of the building module(s). For example, the body has a length of at least about 80% a length of the building. When the body is mounted onto the building module, the body is located on the building module so that an end of the body substantially lines up with an end of the building module such that the body spans a length of a first section of the building module from an end section to an intermediate section of the building module thereby providing coverage to that section. The body does not provide coverage to a second section from the intermediate section to the other end section of the building module. In other examples, the body has a length that is substantially equal to a length of the building such that the body covers a section of the building module from one end to the other end.

[0032] The waterproofing cover 100 has a first cover portion 110 that is mountable onto a section of a first building module and a second cover portion 120 that is mountable onto a section of a second building module. The first and second cover portions 110, 120 form the upper portion of the elongate body. The first and second cover portions form part of a continuous cover that overlies the boundary between the building modules. The first and second cover portions each have a top side surface that has a substantially downward slope, or a substantially downward taper, from a central axis of the cover 100, where the first and second cover portions meet each other, towards the sides of the cover 100. The sloped surface of the top side portion encourages a flow of any water that falls or forms on the top side of the first or second cover portion 110/120 towards the sides of the cover and off the cover, in a direction away from the boundary between the building modules. Thereby, water does not accumulate on the cover.

[00331 The cover is made from a sheet of material such as metal or a plastic.

[0034] Each cover portion 110, 120 is mountable onto the respective building module to form a seal with the respective building module. The formed seal prevents the ingress of water into the boundary between the buildings. The seal would prevent an ingress of water on the building module into the boundary and prevent an ingress of any water that flows from an upper portion of the cover towards the side of the cover into the boundary. Each cover portion 110, 120 has, on its underside, sealing portions 112, 122 that are compressible against the building module to form the seal. The first cover portion 110 has sealing portions in the form of two spaced-apart deformable elongate members 112 that extend along a length of the cover portion 110. Similarly, the second cover portion 120 has sealing portions 122 in the form of two-spaced apart deformable elongate members that extend along a length of the cover portion 120. The elongate members 112, 122 of each of the first and second cover portions are substantially parallel to each other.

[0035] When the cover portions 110, 120 are respectively mounted onto a building module, the cover portion is fastened onto the upper section of the building module to secure it in place on the building module. As the cover portion is being fastened onto the building module, the cover portion compresses the elongate members thereby forming the seal between the cover portion and the building module.

[00361 The deformable elongate member is in the form of a gasket. In other embodiments, the elongate members may be any deformable material, including a rubber strip, a silicon strip, or resiliently deformable material. In other embodiments, the sealing portions may be provided substantially around a perimeter of the cover or cover portions on an underside thereof.

[0037] The cover 200 has a mounting member 130 that is locatable in the boundary between the two building modules that are arranged one-beside-the-other. The mounting member 130 corresponds to the central leg of the body. The mounting member 130 is securable to a side wall of the building module to retain the cover in position relative to the building module. For example, the mounting member 130 can be fastened, e.g. screwed or bolted, to the side wall of the building module. The mounting member 130 has a one or more apertures, each for receiving a fastener for securing the cover to the building module. Alternatively, the mounting member may be attached to the building module using, for example, an adhesive.

[00381 Figure lB shows a waterproofing cover 200 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The waterproofing cover 200 has a shorter length compared to the waterproofing cover 100 of the previous embodiment. Unless otherwise described, features of the cover 200 are similar to the features of the cover of the embodiment described previously in relation to Figure 1A.

[00391 The waterproofing cover 200 is for covering a boundary between adjacent sides of the first building and the secondbuilding that are arranged such that the short side of the firstbuilding is adjacent to the short side of the second building. At sections of this specification, the waterproofing cover 200 is referred to as a 'short cover'.

[0040] Similar to the embodiment described previously, the waterproofing cover 200 has a first cover portion 210 that is mountable onto a first building module and a second cover portion 220 that is mountable onto another building module. The first and second cover portions form part of a continuous cover that overlies the boundary between the building modules. The cover 200 further includes a mounting member 230 that is locatable in the boundary. The cover 200 has a T-shape profile with the cover portions 210, 220 forming an upper portion of the cover and the mounting member 230 forming a central leg of the cover.

[0041] The first and second cover portions 210, 220 form part of a continuous cover that overlies the boundary between the building modules. The first and second cover portions 210, 220 each have a top side surface that has a substantially downward slope, or a substantially downward taper, from a central axis of the cover 200, where the first and second cover portions meet each other, towards the sides of the cover 200.

[0042] Sealing portions 212 are provided on underside of the cover portions to form a seal with the respective building module. The formed seal prevents the ingress of water into the boundary between the buildings. The seal would prevent an ingress of water on the building module into the boundary as well as prevent an ingress of water that flows from an upper portion of the cover towards the side of the cover into the boundary. The sealing portions 212 are compressible against the building module to form the seal. The sealing portions 212 surround a perimeter of the cover on its underside. With this arrangement, the sealing portions 212 prevent an ingress of water into the boundary from a sideward direction, and prevent an ingress of water into the boundary from a forward direction and a rearward direction. The seal is formed as the cover portions are fastened onto the building modules, which compresses the sealing portions against the building module. Similar to the previous embodiment, the sealing portion is a gasket. In other embodiments, the sealing portions may be any deformable material, including a rubber strip, a silicon strip, or resiliently deformable material.

[00431 Figure IC shows a waterproofing cover 300 for covering one or more boundaries between two or more building modules arranged one-beside-the-other according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, the canopy may be for covering a boundary between two building modules that are arranged one-beside-the-other. As another example, the canopy may be for covering a first boundary between two building modules that are arranged one beside-the-other another and a second boundary between two building modules that are arranged one beside-the-other, such that an axis along the first boundary intersects an axis along the second boundary. As another example, the canopy may be for covering an intersection of axes along two or more boundaries, each boundary being between a pair of building modules arranged one-beside-the-other. At sections of this specification, the waterproofing cover 300 is referred to as an 'intersection cover'.

[0044] The cover 300 has a central leg portion 310, a plurality of arms 320 that extend from the central leg portion 310, and a canopy 330 attached to the arms 320. The arms 320 spread out the canopy to cover the one or more boundaries. The central leg portion 310 has a hook portion 312 at an upper end that is engageable with a hook of a crane for locating the cover in position.

[00451 The leg portion 310 and the plurality of arms 320 are made from a rigid material. For example, the leg portions are made from metal.

[00461 The canopy 330 is made from a flexible material. For example, the canopy 330 may be made from a sheet of water-resistant nylon fabric or a sheet of plastic. Alternatively, the canopy 330 may be made from a rigid material.

[0047] Figures 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, and 4B illustrate arrangements of building modules with the covers 100, 200, 300 described previously above to form a modular building.

[0048] Figure 2A shows a first building module 910 to be arranged next to a second building module 920 so that the first and second building modules are one-beside-the-other. The first and second building modules are to be arranged so that the long side of the first building module 910 is adjacent the long side of the second building module 920.

[0049] Prior to locating the first building module 910 next to the second building module 920, the first building module 910 is provided with the waterproofing cover 100, described previously above in relation to Figure 1, mounted thereon. The cover 100 is located on a long side of the building module 910. The mounting member of the cover 100 is fastened or attached to a side wall of the first building module 910 to hold the cover 100 in place relative to the first building module 910. The mounting of the cover 100 via the mounting member 130 thereof is such that a first cover portion 110 of the cover 100 is located on/over the first building module 910 and the sealing portions 112 on the underside of the cover portion 110 either are compressed between that portion and an upper surface or section of the module 910 (where the cover portion110 is closely proximate that surface/section), thereby forming a seal between the cover portion 110 and the module 910, or are clear of or in relatively non-compressive contact with (e.g. at rest on) the upper surface/section of the first building module 910 (where the cover portion 110 is less closely proximate that surface/section). The second cover portion 120 of the cover extends outwardly away from the first building module 910.

[0050] With the cover 100 mounted on the first building module 910, the first building module is lifted (e.g. by a crane) for positioning next to the second building module 920. The building module is oriented relative to the second building module 920 such that the second cover portion 120 of the cover 100 is located over the second building module 920. The first building module 910 is lowered next to the second building module such that the second cover portion 120 is located on/over the second building module 920, as shown in Figure 2B. Once the first building module 910 is located next to the second building module 920, the sealing portions 122 on the underside of the cover portion 120 either are compressed between that portion and an upper surface or section of the module 920 (where the cover portion 120 is closely proximate that surface/section, as it can be positioned to be if desired - for instance where the cover portion 110 is positioned to be closely proximate the said upper surface/section of the first module 910 as mentioned), thereby forming a seal between the cover portion 120 and the module 920, or are clear of or in relatively non-compressive contact with (e.g. at rest on) the upper surface/section of the second building module 920 (where the cover portion 120 is less closely proximate that surface/section, as it similarly can be positioned to be if desired - for instance where the cover portion 110 is positioned to be less closely proximate the said upper surface/section of the first module 910 as mentioned). Where the sealing portions 112 are (owing to the positioning of the cover portion 110/member 130) not compressed to form seals between the first cover portion 110 and the said upper surface/section of the building module 910 when the modules 910 and 920 are side-by-side arranged, the cover portion 110 is fastened onto/against that upper surface/section. As the cover portion 110 is fastened to the building module 910, the sealing portions 112 are each compressed, thereby forming a seal between the cover portion 110 and the building module 910. Correspondingly, where the sealing portions 122 are (owing to the positioning of the cover portion 120/member 130) not compressed to form satisfactory seals between the second cover portion 120 and the said upper surface/section of the building module 920 when the modules 910 and 920 are side-by-side arranged, the cover portion 120 is fastened onto/against that upper surface/section. As the cover portion 120 is fastened to the building module 920, the sealing portions 122 are each compressed, thereby forming a seal between the cover portion 120 and the building module 920.

[0051A] If, on the other hand, both the sealing portions 112 and the sealing portions 122 are in (sufficient) compression when the module 910 has been located next to the module 920, neither of portions 112 and 122 requires subsequent fastening.

[0051] As shown in Figure 2B, the cover 100 provides coverage of a section of the boundary from an end of the boundary to an intermediate location on the boundary. The cover 100 leaves another section of the boundary from the intermediate location to the other end of the boundary uncovered (the 'uncovered section').

[0052] After the first and second building modules 910, 920 are arranged one-beside-the-other with the cover 100 covering the boundary therebetween, and with reference to Figure 3A, a third building module 930 can then be arranged next to the second building module 920 so that the second and third building modules are one-beside-the-other. The second and third building modules are to be arranged such that the short side of the second building module is adjacent to the short side of the third building module. The first and second building modules 910, 920 are arranged along a first axis, while the second and third building modules 920, 930 are to be arranged along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis.

[0053] Prior to locating the third building module 930 next to the second building module 920, the third building module 930 is provided with the waterproofing cover 200, described previously above in relation to Figure IB, mounted thereon. The cover 200 is in particular located on a short side of the building module 930. The mounting member of the cover 200 is fastened or attached to a side wall of the building module 930 to hold the cover 200 in place relative to the building module 930. The mounting of the cover 200 via the mounting member 230 thereof is such that a first cover portion 210 of the cover 200 is located on/over the first building module 910 and the sealing portions 212 on the underside of the cover portion 210 either are compressed between that portion and an/the upper surface or section of the module 910 (where the cover portion 210 is closely proximate that surface/section), thereby forming a seal between the cover portion 210 and the module 910, or are clear of or in relatively non-compressive contact with (e.g. at rest on) the upper surface/section of the building module 930 (where the cover portion 210 is less closely proximate that surface/section). The second cover portion 220 of the cover extends outwardly away from the third building module 930.

[0054] With the cover 200 mounted on the third building module 930, the third building module 930 is lifted (e.g. by a crane) for positioning next to the second building module 920. The building module 930 is oriented relative to the second building module 920 such that the second cover portion 220 of the cover 200 is located over the second building module 920. The third building module 930 is lowered next to the second building module 920 such that the second cover portion 220 is located on the second building module 920, as shown in Figure 3B. Once the third building module 930 is located next to the second building module 920, the sealing portions 222 on the underside of the cover portion 220 either are compressed between that portion and an upper surface or section of the module 920 (where the cover portion 220 is closely proximate that surface/section, as it can be positioned to be if desired - for instance where the cover portion 210 is positioned to be closely proximate the said upper surface/section of the module 930 as mentioned), thereby forming a seal between the cover portion 220 and the module 920, or are clear of or in relatively non-compressive contact with (e.g. at rest on) the upper surface/section of the second building module 920 (where the cover portion 220 is less closely proximate that surface/section, as it similarly can be positioned to be if desired - for instance where the cover portion 210 is positioned to be less closely proximate the said upper surface/section of the module 930 as mentioned). Where the sealing portions 212 are (owing to the positioning of the cover portion 210/member 230) not compressed to form seals between the first cover portion 210 and the said upper surface/section of the building module 930 when the modules 930 and 920 are side-by-side arranged, the cover portion 210 is fastened to the third building module 930. As the cover portion 210 is fastened to the building module 930, the sealing portions 212 are each compressed, thereby forming a seal between the cover portion 210 and the building module 930. Correspondingly, where the sealing portions 222 are (owing to the positioning of the cover portion 220/member 230) not compressed to form satisfactory seals between the second cover portion 220 and the said upper surface/section of the building module 920 when the modules 920 and 930 are side-by-side arranged, the cover portion 220 is fastened onto/against that upper surface/section. As the cover portion 220 is fastened to the building module 920, the sealing portions 222 are each compressed, thereby forming a seal between the cover portion 220 and the building module 920.

[0054A] If, on the other hand, both the sealing portions 212 and the sealing portions 222 are in (sufficient) compression when the module 930 has been located next to the module 920, neither of portions 212 and 222 requires subsequent fastening.

[0055] As shown in Figure 3B, the cover 200 provides coverage of a section of the boundary from an end of the boundary to an intermediate location on the boundary. The cover 200 leaves another section of the boundary from the intermediate location to the other end of the boundary uncovered (the 'uncovered section'). The uncovered section of the boundary between the second and third building modules is in close proximity to the uncovered section of the boundary between the first and second building modules.

[00561 After the first and second building modules are arranged one-beside-the-other with the cover 100 covering the boundary therebetween and the second and third building modules are arranged one-beside the other with the cover 200 covering the boundary therebetween, and with reference to Figure 4A, a fourth building module 940 can then be arranged next to the first building module 910 so that the first and fourth building modules are one-beside-the-other. The first and fourth building modules are arranged such that the short side of the first building module is adjacent to the short side of the fourth building module, and such that the long side of the fourth building module is adjacent to the long side of the third building module. The first and fourth building modules 910, 940 are arranged along a third axis, that is parallel with the second axis along which the second and third building modules 920, 930 are arranged.

[0057] Prior to locating the fourth building module 940 next to the first building module 910, the fourth building module 940 is provided with the waterproofing covers 100', 200', 300, described previously above in relation to Figures 1A to IC, mounted thereon.

[0058] The long cover 100'is located on a long side of the building module 940, with the mounting member 130 of the cover 100' fastened to a side wall of the building module 940 to hold the cover 100' in place relative to the building module 940. The mounting of the cover 100' via the mounting member 130 thereof is such that first cover portion 110 of the cover 100' is located on/over the fourth building module 940 and the sealing portions 112 on the underside of that cover portion 110 either are compressed between that portion and an/the upper surface or section of the module 940 (where the cover portion 110 of cover 100' is closely proximate that surface/section), thereby forming a seal between the cover portion 110 and the module 940, or are clear of or in relatively non-compressive contact with (e.g. at rest on) the upper surface/section of the building module 940 (where the cover portion 110 is less closely proximate that surface/section). The second cover portion of the cover 100' extends outwardly away from the fourth building module 940.

[0059] The short cover 200' is located on a short side of the building module 940, with the mounting member 230 of the cover 200' fastened to another side wall of the building module 940 to hold the cover 200'in place relative to the building module 940. The mounting of the cover 200' via the mounting member 230 thereof is such that first cover portion 210 of the cover 200' is located on/over the fourth building module 940 and the sealing portions 212 on the underside of that cover portion 210 either are compressed between that portion and an/the upper surface or section of the module 940 (where the cover portion 210 is closely proximate that surface/section), thereby forming a seal between the cover portion 210 and the module 940, or are clear of or in relatively non-compressive contact with (e.g. at rest on) the upper surface/section of the building module 940 (where the cover portion 210 is less closely proximate that surface/section). The second cover portion of the cover 200' extends outwardly away from the fourth building module 940.

[0060] The intersection cover 300 is located at or near a corner of the fourth building module 940 such that a canopy of the central cover 300 surrounds a region around the corner including a portion of the upper section of the building module 940.

[00611 With the covers 100', 200', 300 mounted on the fourth building module 940, the fourth building module 940 is lifted (e.g. by a crane) for positioning next to the first building module 910. The building module 940 is oriented relative to the second building module such that the second cover portion 120' of the long cover 100' is located over the third building module 930 and such that the second cover portion of the short cover 200' is located over the first building module 910. The fourth building module 940 is lowered next to the first building module 910 such that the second cover portions 110, 210 are located on the third and first building module 910, 930 respectively, as shown in Figure 4B.

[0061A] Once the fourth building module 940 is in location relative to the first building module 910 and third building module 930, the sealing portions 222 on the underside of the cover portion 220 of the cover 200' either are compressed between that portion and an upper surface or section of the module 910 (where the cover portion 220 is closely proximate that surface/section, as it can be positioned to be if desired - for instance where the cover portion 210 of cover 200' is positioned to be closely proximate the said upper surface/section of the module 940 as mentioned), thereby forming a seal between the cover portion 220 and the module 910, or are clear of or in relatively non-compressive contact with (e.g. at rest on) the upper surface/section of the module 910 (where the cover portion 220 is less closely proximate that surface/section, as it similarly can be positioned to be if desired - for instance where the cover portion 210 of the cover 200' is positioned to be less closely proximate the said upper surface/section of the module 940 as mentioned). Where the sealing portions 212 of the cover200' are (owing to the positioning of the cover portion 210/member230 of that cover) not compressed to form seals between the cover portion210 of the cover 200' and the said upper surface/section of the building module 940 when the modules 940 and 910 are side-by-side arranged, the cover portion210 of cover200' is fastened to the fourth building module 940. As that cover portion 210 is fastened to the building module 940, the sealing portions 212 located on the underside of that cover portion are each compressed, thereby forming a seal between the cover portion 210 and the building module 940. Correspondingly, where the sealing portions 222 of the cover 200' are (owing to the positioning of the cover portion 220/member 230 of that cover) not compressed to form seals between the second cover portion 220 of the cover 200' and the said upper surface/section of the building module 910 when the modules 940 and 910 are side-by-side arranged, the cover portion 220 of cover 200' is fastened onto/against that upper surface/section. As that cover portion 220 is fastened to the building module 910, the sealing portions 222 of the cover 200' are each compressed, thereby forming a seal between the cover portion 220 and the building module 910.

[0061B] Also, once the fourth building module 940 is in location relative to the first building module 910 and third building module 930, the sealing portions 122 on the underside of the cover portion 120 of the cover 100'either are compressed between that portion and an upper surface or section of the module 930 (where the cover portion 220 is closely proximate that surface/section, as it can be positioned to be if desired - for instance where the cover portion 110 of cover 100' is positioned to be closely proximate the said upper surface/section of the module 940 as mentioned), thereby forming a seal between the cover portion 220 and the module 930, or are clear of or in relatively non-compressive contact with (e.g. at rest on) the upper surface/section of the module 930 (where the cover portion 220 is less closely proximate that surface/section, as it similarly can be positioned to be if desired - for instance where the cover portion 110 of the cover 100' is positioned to be less closely proximate the said upper surface/section of the module 940 as mentioned). Where the sealing portions 112 of the cover 100' are (owing to the positioning of the cover portion 110/member 130 of that cover) not compressed to form seals between the cover portion 110 of the cover 100' and the said upper surface/section of the building module 940 when the modules 940 and 930 are side-by-side arranged, the cover portion 110 of cover 100' is fastened to the fourth building module 940. As that cover portion 110 is fastened to the building module 940, the sealing portions 112 located on the underside of that cover portion are each compressed, thereby forming a seal between the cover portion 110 and the building module 940. Correspondingly, where the sealing portions 122 of the cover 100' are (owing to the positioning of the cover portion 120/member 130 of that cover) not compressed to form seals between the second cover portion 120 of the cover 100' and the said upper surface/section of the building module 930 when the modules 940 and 930 are side-by-side arranged, the cover portion 120 of cover 100' is fastened onto/against that upper surface/section. As that cover portion 120 is fastened to the building module 930, the sealing portions 122 of the cover 100' are each compressed, thereby forming a seal between the cover portion 120 and the building module 930.

[0062] As shown in Figure 4B, the long and short covers 100', 200' each provide coverage of a section of the boundary from an end of the boundary to an intermediate location on the boundary. Each cover 100', 200' leaves another section of the boundary from the intermediate location to the other end of the boundary uncovered (the'uncovered section'). The uncovered section of each boundary is in close proximity to each other. The intersection cover that is substantially centrally located at an intersection between the building modules provides coverage to these uncovered sections of the boundary. Thereby, the waterproofing covers form a four-way seal for the modular building.

[00631 In an embodiment of the present invention, a building module with the cover(s) can be lowered from height and then moved transversely into position relative to one of more other building modules such that the cover(s) mounted on the building module covers the boundary between that building module and other adjacent building module(s). In particular, with reference to Figures 5A and 5B, a fourth building module 940'having covers mounted thereon is first lowered from height to a level, e.g. a ground level, of the other building modules 910', 920', 930'. The building module 940' is suspended from its bottom using a crane that that carries a beam that has length that is greater than a width of the building module 940'. Cables are attached to opposite ends of the beam and are passed under the building module 940' at or near opposite ends of the building module to evenly balance the building module 940'when the building module 940'is suspended by the crane. By having the length of the beam (from which the cables to the bottom of the building module extend) greater than a width of the building module 940', the cables are angled from the bottom of the container away from the cover(s) on the top of the building module to a respective end of the beam. Thereby, when the building is suspended by the crane, the cables from the bottom of the building do not interfere with or damage the cover(s) mounted on the building cover. The building module 940' is lowered onto a platform that allows for the building module to be pushed in place relative to the other building modules. When the fourth building module 940' is on the same level as the other building modules, the cables are removed from the building module 940'. The fourth building module is then pushed into position so that it is arranged beside the third building module and the covers on the fourth building module cover the boundary between the fourth building module 940' and the third building module 930' and cover the boundary between the fourth building module and the second building module 920'. With this system and method of arranging building modules, construction workers do not need to climb onto the roof of the building modules to unhook the crane elements from the building modules, which could create a safety hazard for these workers working at height as described in the Background section. Rather, with this system and method, the construction workers can easily access and detach the cable from an underside of the building module when the building module is lowered into position, which is typically at or near a ground level.

[0064] Figures 6A and 6B show a building module 950 including a parapet wall portions 951 on a roof portion. Figure 6B shows a side view of a upper portion of the building module with the parapet wall portions. The parapet wall portions can be retrofitted to a conventional building module, which typically has an uneven, sloped or corrugated upper surface. The parapet wall portions 951 provide a flat surface on which the cover according to preferred embodiments of the present invention can rest and against which the sealing portions of the cover are compressible to form a seal. The parapet wall portion of the building module is in the same horizontal plane as a parapet wall portion of another building module that is arranged next to the building module such that the cover, for covering the boundary between those two building modules, is stably located on the building modules. Further, the sealing portions of that cover is compressible against the flat surface provided by both parapet wall portions to form a seal between the cover and the parapet portions of the building modules. Thereby any positioning inaccuracy of the cover relative to the building modules would not affect the effectiveness of the seal formed by the compression of the sealing members of the cover against the flat parapet wall portions.

[0065] Figure 6C shows a side view of two building modules 960, 970 arranged one-beside-the other, each having sloped parapet wall portions 961, 971 thereon. The parapet wall portions 961, 971 are sloped in a direction to direct or guide water on the respective parapet wall portion away from the boundary between the building modules 960, 970. In this case, a distance between the two building modules is adjusted accordingly so as to adjust the width of the boundary between the building modules and so that the cover 100" (similar to the embodiment described above in relation to Figure 1) that is located on the sloped parapet wall portions 961, 971 is compressible thereagainst to form an effective seal. In particular, the cover 100" is first mounted on the one of the building modules 960 and fastened onto the parapet wall portion 961 so that the sealing portions on the underside of the cover portion mounted on the building module form an effective seal with the parapet wall portion 961. That building module 960 is then moved into location next to the other building module 970. The location of the building module 960 relative to the other building module 970 is adjusted so that the sealing portions on the underside of other cover portion (for mounting on the other building module 970) would be sufficiently compressible against the sloped parapet wall portion of the other building module 970 to form an effective seal therewith.

[00661 Figures 7A to 7D show a building module 910" with parapet wall portions 912", 914" provided along edges on an upper surface of the building module 910". A first parapet wall portion 912" is provided along a length of the building module 910", while a second parapet wall portion 914" is provided along a width of the building module 910". Each parapet wall portion provides a substantially flat surface on which the cover can be stably mounted and against which the sealing portions on an underside of the cover can be compressed to form a substantially effective seal between the cover and the building module 910". Most existing building modules have an uneven upper surface (e.g. a corrugated upper surface), which would compromise the effectiveness of the sealing provided by the sealing portions of the cover according to preferred embodiments of the present invention between the cover and the building module. The parapet wall portions can be retrofitted to these existing building modules to compensate for the uneven upper surfaces of those building modules.

[0067] According to the embodiment shown in Figures 7A to 7D, the cover 400 is mounted on the first parapet wall portion. The cover 400 has similar features to the cover 100 described with reference to Figure 1 above, with sealing portions 410 on an underside of the cover for forming a seal with a respective building module. Additionally, the cover 400 has edge-sealing portions 430 provided along edges of the cover. The edge sealing portion 430 extend along a part of a boundary of the cover 400. The sealing portions 430 include first and second portions that respectively extend along a portion of the length of the cover 400 on opposite edges of the cover, and a middle portion that extends along a short edge of the cover 400. The first and second portions are connected to, and extend from, the middle portion. The first portion, the second portion, and the middle portion form a single, continuous, sealing member. The edge-sealing portions are beveled to avoid damage to the sealing portions, thereby preventing the created sealing from being compromised, when the edge-sealing portions are compressed against a surface or against other edge-sealing portions of another cover.

[00681 When the cover 400 is provided on the building module, these edge-sealing portions 430 are located in a vicinity of where a cover mounted to another building module is to be located. The edges of the cover of the other building module also has edge-sealing portions. When the building module and the other building module are arranged one-beside-the other, edge-sealing portions of the two covers are compressible against each other to thereby form a seal between the two covers. The edge-sealing portions prevent an ingress of water into a boundary between two covers.

[00691 Figures 8A to 8D show an assembly of building modules with parapet walls and the cover described above.

[0070] With reference to Figure 8A, a first building module 910" and a second building module 920" are arranged one-beside-the-other with a first cover 400 covering a boundary between the first and second building modules 910", 920". The sealing portions on the underside of the first cover 400 are compressed against the parapet wall portions of the first and second building modules 910", 920" such that the sealing portions on an underside of the first cover 400 form an effective seal between the first cover and the first and second building modules respectively. The cover 400 is arranged relative to the first and second building module 910", 920" such that the edge sealingportions 430 of the firstcover400 is in a vicinity where other cover(s) of other building modules are to be located.

[0071] With reference to Figure 8B, a third building module 930", with a second cover 500 thereon, and the second building module 920" are arranged one-beside-the-other such that the second cover covers a boundary between the second and third building modules 920", 930". The sealing portions on the underside of the second cover 500 are compressed against the parapet wall portions of the second and third building modules 920", 930" such that the sealing portions on the underside of the second cover 500 form an effective seal between the second cover and the second and third building modules 920", 930" respectively. The second cover 500 has an edge-sealing portion 530 at least on a short edge of the cover 500. When the second building module 920" and the third building module 930" are arranged one-beside-the-other, the edge-sealing portion 530 of the second cover 500 is compressed against the first edge-sealing portion of the first cover 400 that extends along a portion of the length of the first cover 400 to thereby form a seal between the first and second covers 400, 500.

[0072] With reference to Figure 8C, a third building module 940", with a third cover 600 and fourth cover 700 thereon, and the third building module 930" are arranged one-beside-the-other such that that the third cover 600 covers a boundary between the first and fourth building modules 910", 940", and the fourth cover 700 coves a boundary between the third and fourth building modules 930", 940". The sealing portions on the underside of the third cover 600 are compressed against the parapet wall portions of the first and fourth building modules 910", 940" such that the sealing portions on the underside of the third cover 600 form an effective seal between the third cover and the first and fourth building modules 910", 940" respectively. Similarly, the sealing portions on the underside of the fourth cover 700 are compressed against the parapet wall portions of the third and fourth building modules 930", 940" such that the sealing portions on the underside of the fourth cover 700 form an effective seal between the fourth cover and the third and fourth building modules 930", 940" respectively.

[0073] The third cover 600 has an edge-sealing portion at least on a short edge of the third cover 600, while the fourth cover 700 has edge-sealing portions each along opposite edges of the fourth cover 700 and extending at least partially along a length of the cover 700. When the third and fourth covers 600, 700 are provided on the fourth building module 940", the edge-sealing portion of the third cover 600 is compressed against one of the edge-sealing portions of the fourth cover 700 to thereby form a seal between the third and fourth covers 600, 700. When the third building module 930" and the fourth building module 940" are arranged one-beside-the-other, the other edge-sealing portion of the fourth cover 700 is compressed against the edge sealing portion of the second cover 500 to thereby form a seal between the second and fourth covers 500, 700.

[0074] When the third building module 930" and the fourth building module 940" are arranged one-beside-the-other, the edge-sealing portion 530 of the second cover 500 presses against the first edge-sealing portion of the first cover 400 that extends along a portion of the length of the first cover 400 to thereby form a seal between the first and second covers 400, 500.

[0075] With reference to Figure 8D, once the first, second, third, and fourth building modules 910", 920", 930", 940" are arranged relative to each other, an intersection cover 800 is located to cover the intersection or space between the first, second, third and fourth covers 400, 500, 600, 700. The intersection cover prevents an ingress of water at an intersection of the building modules. The intersection cover 800 is, in particular, mounted onto the covers 400, 500, 600, 700. With reference to Figure 9, the intersection cover 800 has sealing portions 830 on an underside of the cover that are compressible against a flat upper surface of the covers on the other building modules to thereby form a seal between the intersection cover 800 and each cover thereunder. The intersection cover 800 has fasteners 840 for fastening the intersection cover onto the building modules to compress the sealing portions 830 on the underside. The sealing portions 830 on the underside of the intersection cover 800 are arranged on the underside such that when the intersection cover 800 is mounted onto the covers, the sealing portions are wholly located on the covers to form a continuous seal around the intersection.

[0076] Figure 10 shows an intersection cover 800'according to another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment the intersection cover 800' has a cross-shape. Like the embodiment described with reference to Figure 8D, the intersection cover 800' of this embodiment has sealing portions on an underside of the intersection cover 800' that is compressible to form a continuous seal around an intersection between building modules. The intersection cover 800 additionally includes four pairs of wall portions 852', 854', 856', 858'extending in different directions. The intersection cover 800' is located to cover the intersection between four building modules such that each cover 400, 500, 600, 700 (that covers a boundary between two adjacent building modules) is locatable between wall portions of a respective pair such that the wall portions of that pair provide additional protection to a joint between the cover and the parapet wall portions of the building modules.

[0077] With reference to the Figure 11 and similar to the embodiment described with reference to Figure 5, building modules 930", 940" with covers thereon can be can be laterally moved into position relative to each other and relative to other building modules 910", 920". Each cover on these building modules have edge-sealing portions, as described above, that are compressible to form a seal between two covers. These edge-sealing portions have a beveled shape that facilitate a smooth and gentle compression as the building module(s) are laterally moved into position thereby preventing the edge sealing portions from getting damaged.

[0078] With reference to Figure 12, an end cover 1100 is provided to cover boundary between two building modules that are arranged one-beside-the-other on an exposed side face of the building modules. The end cover 1100 has sealing portions on an underside of the cover that is compressible against a side wall of the building modules (or against the parapet side wall portions on the building modules) to form a seal between the end cover and the building modules.

[0079] While the embodiments previously described relate to an arrangement of four building modules, it should be understood that in other embodiments of the present invention, the arrangement may include more than four building modules. For example, with reference to Figures 13A to 13C, the arrangement of building modules may be a two-by-four arrangement, a four-by-two arrangement, a three-by-three arrangement, or an n-by-m arrangement (n and m being integers, either or each of which is greater than 1). In these other embodiments, there is provided covers to each cover a boundary between two building modules that are arranged one-beside-the-other, an intersection cover to cover an intersection between building modules, and an end cover to cover a boundary between two exposed side walls of the building modules. The building modules are arranged relative to each other such that a sloped roof section of each building module directs water away from the cover(s) and/or towards a gutter section. The arrows shown in Figures 12A to 12C represent a drainage direction of water on the roof section of the building modules.

[0080] Another example is a two-by-one arrangement, shown in Figure 14. A first building module 910" and a second building module 920" are arranged one-beside-the-other with a cover 100 covering a boundary between the first and second building modules 910", 920". The sealing portions on the underside of the first cover 100 are compressed against the parapet wall portions of the first and second building modules 910", 920" such that the respective pairs of those sealing portions form an effective seal between the first cover and the first and second building modules.

[0081] Without departure from the invention, with reference to Figure 4B, the long cover 100, 100'and the shortcovers 200,200'may forma single continuous coverbody thatoverlies therespective boundaries between the four building modules.

[0082] Without departure from the invention, the cover may be integrally formed with a building module such that a portion of the cover extends outwardly from the building module to cover a boundary between that building module and another building module that is arranged beside that building module.

[00831 Shown schematically in Figures 15A and 15B is the arrangement one-beside-the-other of a first building module 1210 and second building module 1220, the former including or being provided with (mounted thereto) a cover 1300, in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention. The cover 1300, shown in Figure 15C, may be made of metal or a plastics material (e.g. a rigid or semi-rigid plastic), and may be made from a sheet of such material. The modules 1210, 1220 have or are provided with respective parapet portions 1250 and 1260 (which may be roof portions) that are laterally inwardly inclined, so as to slope downwardly in a direction away from a central plane through the boundary between the modules 1210, 1220, to direct or guide water away therefrom.

[0084] The modules 1210, 1220 also have or are provided with respective spacer portions or upstands 1270 and 1280, arranged at respective upper regions adjacent to the adjacent (laterally inner) sides thereof (being the long sides in the example shown) and projecting upwardly from the said regions. The upstands 1270 and 1280 may (and generally preferably will) be continuous in directions of/parallel to the said sides, e.g. each comprising a ridge or wall, preferably extending most or all of the length of the respective side/module, or may instead be discontinuous, e.g. comprising respective pluralities of posts, ridge portions or wall portions arranged at spaced positions along the lengths of said sides (possibly defining respective castellated configurations), preferably arranged such that endmost ones of the projections in each of the pluralities 1270 and 1280 thereof are at or near the respective ends of the respective modules 1210 and 1220. The parapet portions 1250 and 1260 extend, from positions at or adjacent laterally outer sides of the respective modules 1210 and 1220, to laterally outer sides of the upstands 1270 and 1280.

[0085] The cover 1300 extends throughout the lengths of the modules 1210, 1220 and, like the covers 100/100'/100" and 400, has laterally opposed first and second cover portions (e.g. made of said metal or plastics material/plate), comprising cover portions 1310 and 1320. Referring to Figure 15C, the pair of cover portions 1310, 1320 is upwardly convex, defining an upper surface of the cover 1300 which, like that of each of the covers 100/100'/100" and 400, is upwardly convex/convergent, having downwardly curving laterally outer ends/edge portions defining runoff portions 1311 and 1321. The cover 1300, unlike the covers 100/100'/100" and 400, does not have sealing portions; undersides 1313 and 1323 of the cover portions 1310 and 1320 (which are defined by a lower surface of the convex/curved plate or sheet structure of the cover 1300) are receivable directly against the upper surfaces of the projections 1270 and 1280. The coverportion 1310 is fastened (e.g. screwed, bolted or bonded) or otherwise secured to the projection(s) 1270 whereby the cover 1300 is mounted to the module 1210, with the underside of cover portion 1310 - specifically, of a laterally inner section thereof - being received against the said upper surface(s) of the projection(s) 1270, and the laterally outer section thereof, including the runoff portion 1311, projecting so as to overlie - and, more specifically, to overhang - the parapet portion 1250, so as to be able to direct water falling or forming on the cover portion 1310 onto the parapet portion 1250. The cover portion 1320 projects beyond the laterally inner side of the module 1210 to be locatedly positionable with respect to the projection(s) 1280.

[00861 When the module 1210 is located in position beside the module 1220, as shown in Figure 15B, the underside of cover portion 1320 - specifically, of a laterally inner section thereof - is received against the upper surface(s) of the projection(s) 1280, and the laterally outer section thereof, including the runoff portion 1312, projects to overlie - and, more specifically, to overhang - the parapet portion 1260, so as to be able to direct water falling or forming on the cover portion 1320 onto the parapet portion 1260. The cover portion 1320, like each of the cover portions 120/220 of the covers 100/100'/100" and 400 (supported via the respective first modules) may be fastened (e.g. screwed, bolted or bonded) or otherwise secured to the second module (specifically, to the projection(s) 1280 in the case of cover portion 1320) or instead (sufficiently) pressed thereagainst/in abutment therewith owing to the fixation of the first cover portion to the first module, i.e. by virtue of shear loading taken through the cover between the first and second portions, thanks to the resilience of the cover/cover portions. Whereas in the case of each of covers 100/100'/100" and 400 the pressing of the second cover portion/underside thereof in abutment with/against the second module (owing to said fixation/shear loading/resilience and/or to securement/fixation of the second cover portion to the second module (where such securement/fixation is provided)) is such that the sealing portion(s) on that cover portion are compressed against the second module (whereby abutment between the second cover portion second module will comprise indirect abutment, via the (thus compressed) sealing portions, effecting sealing), the pressing of the second cover portion 1320/underside 1323 against the second module 1220 (specifically, the projection 1280 upper surface(s) therein) is such that the abutment between the former and the latter is direct.

[0087] The arrangement/module 1220 shown in Figure 15B is such that a waterproof seal between the cover 1300 and second module 1220 is not necessary, particularly given that the cover 1300/cover portion 1320 defines or constitutes a canopy or canopy portion arranged to overlie/cover the boundary (between the modules) and to cover/overlie the inner side/side wall of the module 1220 sufficiently, in a manner such that water is directed thereby to whereabouts, remote from the boundary, at which it is effectively isolated from the boundary. The cover 1300/canopy portion 1320 thus provides a high degree of sheltering, precluding ingress of such water into the boundary. The module 1220 may, for example, define a shelter structure, a semi-indoor space or a semi-outdoor space, in respect of which a waterproof seal between the cover 1300 and second module 1220 is not required.

[0088] Also, the arrangement/module 1210 shown in Figure 15B is such that a waterproof seal between the cover 1300 and first module 1210 is not necessary, particularly given that the cover 1300/cover portion 1310 defines or constitutes a canopy or canopy portion arranged to overlie/cover the boundary (between the modules) and to cover/overlie the inner side/side wall of the module 1210 sufficiently, in a manner such that water is directed thereby to whereabouts, remote from the boundary, at which it is effectively isolated from the boundary. The cover 1300/canopy portion 1310 thus likewise provides a high degree of sheltering, precluding ingress of such water into the boundary. The module 1210 (like module 1220) may, for example, define a shelter structure, a semi-indoor space or a semi-outdoor space, in respect of which a waterproof seal between the cover 1300 and second module 1210 is not required.

[0089] It will be appreciated that the cover 1300, like variants thereof that are discussed below, can be applied not only to modules, comprising projections 1270 and 1280, as shown in Figures 15A and 15B but also to modules having other configurations/features.

[0090] A variant of the cover that is shown in Figure 15C, in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention, comprises the plate/cover structure 1300 and at least one sealing coating thereover, e.g. comprising sealing which is bituminous and/or applied by spraying, such being known to those skilled in the art. The coating(s) may comprise one or more layers applied, such as by spraying, to the structure 1300, particularly the underside thereof, (at least) at positions where the cover/underside contacts the modules - or position(s) at which it contacts one of the modules, where sealing between the cover and other module is not required/called for. Generally preferable, however, is that the coating be applied over the remainder of the area of the cover/underside also (whereby it is applied over the entirety of the underside/cover). The coating may, where it is bituminous, have a layer comprising bitumen (which may be sprayed as hot liquid) and (thereover) a layer comprising crushed aggregate. The variant may instead be such that the plate/cover structure 1300 comprises sealing fabric, for instance comprising bituminous fabric, such being also known to those skilled in the art - e.g. instead of said metal or plastics material/plate or additional to (and applied over) said material/plate.

[0091] The cover according to such a variant thus comprises one or more sealing portions, defined by the coating(s)/fabric (which is/are known in the art), arranged to seal against one or both of the modules.

[0092] Further variants, according to alternative embodiments of the invention, are shown in Figures 16A to 16D.

[00931 In the variant shown in Figure 16A, the cover 1300'is the same as the cover 1300 or variant thereof discussed above with the exception that it includes magnets 1330 and 1340, either overlying the undersides of the cover portions 1310 and 1320 respectively (as shown) or embedded or otherwise incorporated in those cover portions (such as in said coating(s)/fabric), and possibly with the further exception that it additionally includes a rigid or semi-rigid reinforcing base 1350, which may comprise a plate (such as a metal, e.g. steel, plate) and which may be arranged on the underside of the cover 1300' (including over the undersides of cover portions 1310 and 1320), as shown, or embedded or otherwise incorporated in the cover/cover portions (such as in said coating(s)/fabric). The magnets 1330 and 1340 - which may be applied directly to the underside of the base 1350, or may overlie (the) fabric/coating material that overlies the underside of the base 1350 - are arranged to engage magnetic or magnetisable/magnetically susceptible parts of the first and second modules respectively, to hold the cover portion 1310 to the first module (whereby it can, in so doing, mount the cover 1300' to that module, consistent with what is shown in Figure 15A), e.g. in lieu of fasteners or adhesive as mentioned above, and to hold the cover portion 1320 to the second module (consistent with what is shown in Figure 15B), likewise in lieu of such fasteners/adhesive were they/it to have otherwise been used to secure/fix down the cover portion 1320. The magnets 1330 and 1340 may comprise or be defined by magnetic strips or elements e.g. as disclosed in the Australian provisional patent application titled "Construction of Building Structures Including Weatherproofed Boundaries Therein", filed 29 February 2024, in the name of Ausco Modular Pty Limited, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0094] The magnetic strips/elements 1330, 1340 may be arranged over most or all of the length of the cover 1300', and may comprise a flexible elongate magnet 1330 and a flexible elongate magnet 1340, each comprised of permanent-magnet material, e.g. of neodymium. Each strip/element may, more particularly, comprise extruded isotropic magnetic profile and may be adhesively secured to the underside of the cover 1300' or base 1350 in a manner such that the interface between the strip/element and cover/base is waterproof. The strip/element may be secured to the base or cover underside via waterproof adhesive, which may be applied as a coating to the underside of the cover/base and/or to a main (/upper) side portion of the strip/element at which the strip/element is secured/bonded to the underside, or be provided on opposite sides of adhesive tape pre-applied to one of the underside and the said main/upper side portion, so as to be secured thereto via the adhesive on one side of the tape, and secured to the other of the underside and portion, via the adhesive on the other side of the tape. The tape may, for example, comprise acrylic non-woven adhesive tape. Each magnetic strip/element may comprise, in addition to the flexible elongate magnet, a (suitably flexible/compliant) waterproof coating, e.g. comprised of polyvinylchloride (PVC), over the magnet, including in particular over the lateral sides/faces and unbonded (main/lower) side/face of the magnet - in which case, the lateral sides/faces and unbonded (main/lower) side/face or base, respectively, of the magnetic strip/element are defined by the coating (rather than by the lateral sides/faces and main side/face of the magnet itself).

[0095] The undersides of the magnets 1330 and 1340, or of the cover portions 1313 and 1323 if those strips/elements are embedded therein (and not exposed through/at those undersides), are receivable against faces of the first and second modules respectively (including faces of the modules 1210 and 1220, particularly surfaces of the projections 1270, 1280), and retained thereto owing to magnetic attraction between each of the magnets 1330 and 1340 and a respective one of the faces of the first and second modules. Where the magnets 1330, 1340 are exposed (at/on the cover portion undersides) and comprise compressible/sealable material (for instance a coating, e.g. as described above) receivable against the respective faces, they may define sealing portions, comprising said material, compressible against the said faces to form seals precluding ingress of water through the sealing portion-module face interfaces into the boundary. Where the magnets are not so exposed but the cover portion undersides comprise compressible/sealable material (for instance a fabric or a coating, e.g. as described above) receivable against the respective faces, they may define such sealing portions. Where the cover portion undersides or magnet undersides - whichever are arranged to be (directly) received against the said faces - are not defined by such compressible/sealable material, so that waterproof seals may not be formable at the said interfaces, adequate prevention of water ingress into the boundary can nevertheless be conferred, owing to the cover portions (or canopy portions defined thereby) being configured/arranged to direct water to whereabouts at which it is effectively isolated from the boundary (such as in a manner described above).

[00961 The magnetic attraction between the cover and modules is attributable to the latter comprising, in the region of the faces thereof, material which is magnetically susceptible or magnetisable, said material typically comprising metal such as steel. Each face may be defined by such material or be defined by other material and sufficiently proximate the magnetically susceptible or magnetisable material for the magnetic attraction to be 31ealized when the cover is received thereagainst - e.g. the face may be defined by a coating applied over the magnetically susceptible or magnetisable material. The face can, for example, be defined (for instance) by a frame of the respective module, or by a cover, e.g. comprising any of the covers disclosed herein, applied to a building module whereby the said respective module comprises said building module and that/those cover(s) applied thereto.

[0097] In the variant shown in Figure 16B, the cover 1300" is the same as the cover 1300'with the exception that it includes further magnets 1330' and 1340', which are the same as, albeit possibly (as shown) narrower than, the magnets 1330 and 1340, and which are likewise secured to or within the cover portions 1310 and 1320 (albeit invariably directly, i.e. not via any base/plate) - at or adjacent the edge portions 1311 and 1321. The further magnets 1330' and 1340'may be arranged over most or all of the length of the cover 1300", and may engage corresponding other/further magnetic or magnetisable/magnetically susceptible parts or portions of the first and second modules respectively, to hold/retain the cover portions 1310 and 1320 to/against those parts/portions, contributing to the water resistance/waterproofing provided by the cover 1300" and/or maintaining the curved profile of the cover 1300"/each of the runoff portions 1311 and 1321. As with the magnets 1330 and 1340, it maybe that there are sealing portions, defined by the magnets 1330' and 1340' (if exposed) or by said compressible/sealing material (if the magnets are embedded), or portions which (like the sealing portions) retain/hold the portions 1311 and 1321 to the said other/further parts but which may (unlike the sealing portions) not additionally provide sealing.

[0098] In the variant shown in Figure 16C, the cover 1300 is the same as the cover 1300' with the exception that it includes only one magnet 1330 or 1340, and possibly with the further exception that it additionally includes a rigid or semi-rigid reinforcing base 1350'(that may comprise a plate, such as a metal, e.g. steel, plate) and may be arranged on the underside of the cover 1300"', over the underside of cover portion 1310 or 1320 (as shown) respectively, or embedded or otherwise incorporated in that cover portion (such as in said coating(s)/fabric). The other cover portion (1340 or 1330) may be fastened (e.g. screwed, bolted or bonded) or otherwise secured to the respective module (specifically to the projection(s) 1280 or 1270 in the case of modules 1210 and 1220) or instead (sufficiently) pressed thereagainst/in abutment therewith owing to the fixation of the cover portion 1310 or 1320 to the respective module conferred by the magnet 1330/1340), i.e. by virtue of shear loading taken through the cover between that cover portion and the other cover portion, thanks to the resilience of the cover/cover portions.

[0099] In the variant shown in Figure 16D, the cover 1300""is the same as the cover 1300 with the exception that it additionally includes a said further magnet 1330'or 1340' secured to or within the cover portion 1310 or 1320 in a manner as described above. The further magnet 1330' or 1340' may engage a said corresponding other/further magnetic or magnetisable/magnetically susceptible part or portion of the first and second module respectively, to hold/retain the cover portion 1310 or 1320 to/against that part/portion, contributing to the water resistance/waterproofing provided by the cover1300"" and/or maintaining the curved profile of the portion 1311 or 1321. As with either of the magnets 1330' and 1340' in the cover 1300", it may be that there is a sealing portion, defined by the magnet 1330' or 1340' (if exposed) or by said compressible/sealing material (if that magnet is embedded), or a portion which (like the sealing portion) retains/holds the portion 1311 or 1321 to the said other/further part but which may (unlike the sealing portion) not additionally provide sealing.

[0100] A cover according to a further variant embodying the invention comprises the cover 1300, or any variant thereof, and a mounting member/portion 130/230 as described previously.

[0101] Other variants disclosed herein are possible without departure from the invention.

[0102] Figures 17A to 17C show variants of the first cover 100 (/100'), according to alternative embodiments of the invention.

[01031 In the variant shown in Figure 17A, the cover 1000 is the same as the cover 100/100', except that it does not have sealing portions on the underside of the second cover portion 120". Thus, in an arrangement corresponding to that shown in Figure 2B, including a cover 1000 rather than cover 100 but otherwise being the same, a waterproof seal is not formed between the cover portion 120" and the module 920. The module 920 in such an arrangement may, for example, define a shelter structure, a semi-indoor space or a semi-outdoor space, in respect of which such a seal is not required. Similarly, in an arrangement corresponding to that shown in Figure 4B, including a cover 1000 rather than cover 100 and including a further cover 1000 rather than cover 100'but otherwise being the same, a waterproof seal is not formed between the cover portion 120" of the former cover 1000 and the module 920, or between the cover portion 120" of the latter cover 1000 and the module 930. Each of the modules 920 and 930 in such an arrangement likewise may, for example, define a shelter structure, a semi-indoor space or a semi-outdoor space, in respect of which such a seal is not required.

[0104] In the variant shown in Figure 17B, the cover 1000' is the same as the cover 100/100', except that it does not have sealing portions on the underside of the first cover portion 120". Thus, in an arrangement corresponding to that shown in Figure 2B, including a cover 1000'rather than cover 100 but otherwise being the same, a waterproof seal is not formed between the cover portion 110" and the module 910. Similarly, in an arrangement corresponding to that shown in Figure 4B, including a cover 1000' rather than cover 100 and including a further cover 1000' rather than cover 100' but otherwise being the same, a waterproof seal is not formed between the cover portion 110" of the former cover 1000' and the module 910, or between the cover portion 110" of the latter cover 1000' and the module 940.

[0105] In the variant shown in Figure 17C, the cover 1000" is the same as the cover 100/100', except that it does not have sealing portions on the underside of either the first cover portion110" or 120". Thus, in an arrangement corresponding to that shown in Figure 2B, including a cover 1000" rather than cover 100 but otherwise being the same, a waterproof seal is not formed between the cover portion 110" and the module 910 or between the cover portion 120" and the module 920. Similarly, in an arrangement corresponding to that shown in Figure 4B, including a cover 1000" rather than cover 100 and including a further cover 1000" rather than cover 100' but otherwise being the same, a waterproof seal is not formed between the cover portion 110" of the former cover 1000" and the module 910 or between the cover portion 120" of that cover and the module 920, and a waterproof seal is not formed between the cover portion 110" of the latter cover 1000" and the module 940 or between the cover portion 120" of that cover and the module 930.

[01061 Figures 18A to 18C show variants of the second cover 200 (/200'), according to alternative embodiments of the invention. In the variant shown in Figure 18A, the cover 2000 is the same as the cover 200/200', except that it does not have sealing portions on the second cover portion 220", so that a waterproof seal is not formed between that cover portion and the module it against/over which it is received. In the variant shown in Figure 18B, the cover 2000'is the same as the cover 200/200', except that it does not have sealing portions on the first cover portion 210", so that a waterproof seal is not formed between that cover portion and the module it against/over which it is received. In the variant shown in Figure 18C, the cover 2000" is the same as the cover 200/200', except that it does not have sealing portions on either the first cover portion 210" or the second cover portion 220", so that a waterproof seal is not formed between either of the cover portions and the module it against/over which it is received.

[0107] Figures 19A to 19C show variants of the cover 100" or 1300, and of arrangements which include it, according to further alternative embodiments of the invention. In the variant shown in Figure 19A, the cover 1000A is the same as the cover 100", except that it does not have any sealing portion on the cover portion thereof which overlies module 960, so that a waterproof seal is not formed between that cover portion and the module 960/parapet wall portion 961 over/against which it is received. In the variant shown in Figure 19B, the cover 1000A' is the same as the cover 100", except that it does not have any sealing portion on the cover portion thereof which overlies module 970, so that a waterproof seal is not formed between that cover portion and the module 970/ parapet wall portion 971 over/against which it is received. In the variant shown in Figure 19C, the cover1OOOA" is the same as the cover 100", except that it does not have any sealing portion on either of the cover portions thereof, so that a waterproof seal is not formed between either cover portion and the respective module 960 or 970/parapet wall portion 961/971 over/against which it is received.

[0108] Figures 20A to 20C show further variants of covers according to further alternative embodiments of the invention.

[0109] In the variant shown in Figure 20A, the cover 1000B or 2000B can be provided on a long or short side, respectively, of a module. The cover 1000B comprises a covering part or portion 1300A, which may (for instance) be defined by a cover 1300 or any of the aforementioned variants thereof and defines respective cover portions, one of which is arranged to overlie/abut the structure or module 1400 and the other of which is arranged to overlie/abut another structure or module (e.g. another structure/module 1400) beside which the structure/module 1400 is/will be arranged, and further comprises a mounting member 130 or 230, connected to and projecting from a part of the covering part/portion 1300A between the cover portions, via which the cover 1000B can be mounted (in a manner as previously described) to the module 1400.

[0110] In the variant shown in Figure 20B, the cover 1000B' or 2000B' is the same as the cover 1000B or 2000B respectively exceptthatitis arranged to extend orprojectbeyond eitheror each side of the structure/module 1400 that is perpendicular to the side thereof along which it extends/is mounted, whereby the cover portions thereof can overlie/engage respective modules of a further pair of structures/modules arranged beside the structure/module 1400 and said other structure/module, such that the cover additionally covers a boundary between the structures/modules of the further pair, and also an intersection between the pairs of adjacent structures/modules.

[0111] In the variant shown in Figure 20C, the cover 1000B" or 2000B" is the same as the cover 1000B or 2000B respectively except that it includes an end cover 1100' arranged to overlie/engage respective faces at sides/ends of the structures/modules to cover (side-on/end-on) the boundary between those structures/modules - either or each of which faces may be defined by an upright of the respective structure/module frame (e.g. as shown) or, where the structure/module includes side/end walls supported by the frame, defined by a side/end wall portion (which may be a portion of a side/end wall of the structure/module itself or a portion of a parapet wall portion applied to such a side/end wall). The end cover 1100' comprises a cover portion (shown) and may further comprise, on an underside of the cover portion, sealing portions compressible against said faces.

[0111A] The structure/module 1400 and other structure/module may (e.g. where either or each is, consistent with what is shown, not provided with/inclusive of enclosing walls) define or form part of a structure that may (for instance) form a shelter structure (e.g. a bus, walkway, pathway or patio shelter structure) or a semi-indoor or outdoor structure (e.g. a shed or gazebo structure).

[0111B] Without departure from the invention, in a variant of any one of the examples or embodiments (including variants) disclosed herein, there may be provided, in place of each, either/any, or at least one, module, a structure which is other than a module, e.g. a building structure, which may define occupancy space and/or may be pre-existing in position (particularly at site).

[0111C] Without departure from the invention, in a variant of any one of the examples or embodiments (including variants) disclosed herein, the, each, or at least one said, cover or cover portion may have at least one upturned edge whereby ingress water that is on the cover or cover portion is precluded from ingress between that cover/cover portion or edge and what is overlain thereby.

[0112] While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not by way of limitation. It will be apparent to a person skilled in the relevant art that various changes in form and detail can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the present invention should not be limited by any of the above described exemplary embodiments.

[01131 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 that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavor to which this specification relates.

[0114] 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 or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS: 1. A cover, for use in a modular building which comprises first, second, third and fourth building modules and in which: in a first pair of modules, comprising the first building module and the second building module, the first and second building modules are arranged one-beside-the-other along a first axis; in a second pair of modules, comprising the second building module and the third building module, the second and third building modules are arranged one-beside-the-other along a second axis, the second axis being perpendicular to the first axis; in a third pair of building modules, comprising the first building module and the fourth building module, the first and fourth building modules are arranged one-beside-the-other along a third axis, the third axis being parallel to the second axis and perpendicular to first axis; and in a fourth pair of building modules, comprising the third building module and the fourth building module, the third and fourth building modules are arranged one-beside-the-other along a fourth axis, the fourth axis being parallel to the first axis and perpendicular to the second and third axes, whereby there is an intersection between a boundary between the first and fourth pairs of modules and a boundary between the second and third pairs of modules, the cover being located or locatable to cover the intersection to preclude ingress of water at the intersection.
2. A cover according to claim 1, comprising a canopy to cover the intersection.
3. A cover according to claim 2, wherein the canopy is made from flexible material, the cover further comprising arms to spread out the canopy.
4. A cover according to claim 3, including a central leg portion, from which said arms extend.
5. A cover according to any one of claims 1 to 4, being mounted or mountable on a said building module to be so located or locatable.
6. A cover according to any one of claims 1 to 5, being engaged or engageable with a section of a said building module to be so located or locatable.
7. A cover according to any one of claims I to 6, being located or locatable at or near a corner of a said building module.
8. A cover according to any one of claims 1 to 7, being mounted or mountable onto covers, each of which overlies a boundary between adjacent sides of the modules in a respective one of said pairs to preclude ingress of water into the boundary, so as to cover said intersection.
9. A cover according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising a cover portion, to overlie the intersection, and one or more sealing portions compressible against ones of said modules to form seals therewith.
10.A cover according to any one of claims 1 to 9, configured to cover or provide coverage to an uncovered section of a boundary between the modules of at least one of said pairs.
1L.A cover according to claim 10, configured to cover or provide coverage to a respective said uncovered section of a boundary between the modules of each of said first and fourth pairs.
12.A cover according to claim 10 or 11, configured to cover or provide coverage to a respective said uncovered section of a boundary between the modules of each of said second and third pairs.
13.A cover according to any one of claims 10 to 12, configured to cover or provide coverage to a respective said uncovered section of a boundary between the modules of each of said first and second pairs and/or each of said first and third pairs and/or each of said second and fourth pairs and/or said third and fourth pairs.
14.A cover according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising one or more cover portions arranged to overlie said intersection and/or the, each, or at least one said uncovered section.
15.A building module provided with or including a cover according to any one of the preceding claims, the building module being one of said building modules, wherein the cover is located or locatable to cover the intersection when the modules are arranged in said pairs.
16.A building module according to claim 15, the building module being said fourth building module and positionable in location, relative to the first module arranged in said first pair and the third module arranged in said second pair, such that the cover is so located or locatable.
17.The modular building, comprising said modules and including: the cover of any one of claims 1 to 14; or the module of claim 15 or 16, provided with or including said cover, wherein the cover is located to cover the intersection to preclude ingress of water at the intersection.
18.A method of constructing the modular building of claim 17, wherein the first, second and third building modules are positioned such that the first and second modules are arranged in said first pair and the second and third building modules are arranged in said second pair, the method comprising positioning said fourth building module in location, relative to the first module arranged in said first pair and the third module arranged in said second pair, such that the cover is located or locatable to cover the intersection to preclude ingress of water at the intersection.
19.A cover for a boundary between adjacent sides of building modules arranged one-beside-the other, the cover comprising at least one cover portion and being supported or supportable via one building module such that the at least one cover portion is located or locatable to overlie the boundary, and a said cover portion is receivable over the other building module to cover or provide coverage to it, when the building modules are so arranged.
20.A cover for a boundary between adjacent sides of building modules arranged one-beside-the other, the cover comprising at least one cover portion and being part of, integrally formed with, mountable or mounted on, or engaged or engageable with a section of, one building module such that the at least one cover portion is located or locatable to overlie the boundary, and a said cover portion is receivable over the other building module to cover or provide coverage to it, when the building modules are so arranged.
21.A cover according to any one of claims 1 to 14, 19 and 20, including one or more sealing portions provided on or defined by at least one said cover portion and compressed or compressible against at least one said module to form a seal between the cover portion and module.
22. A cover according to claim 21, wherein said at least one sealing portion comprises at least one deformable elongate member extending along a length of the cover portion.
23. A cover according to claim 22, wherein said at least one deformable elongate member comprises spaced apart first and second deformable elongate members each extending along said length.
24. A cover according to any one claims 1 to 14 and 19 to 23, being integrally formed with said one building module or said fourth building module.
25. A cover according to any one of claims 1 to 14 and 19 to 23, being part of said one building module or said fourth building module.
26. A cover according to any one of claims 1 tol 4 and 19 to 23, being mounted on said one building module or said fourth building module.
27. A cover according to claim 26, including a mounting member via which it is so mounted, the mounting member being secured to a side wall of said one building module or said fourth building module to be located in a said boundary.
28. A cover according to claim 26 or 27, being compressible against said one module or said fourth module to form a seal therewith.
29. A cover according to any one of claims 26 to 28, including one or more sealing portions compressed or compressible against said one or fourth building module to form a seal therewith.
30. A cover according to claim 29, wherein the one or more sealing portions compressed or compressible against said one or fourth building module comprise one or more deformable elongate members extending along a/the length of the cover portion.
31. A cover according to claim 30, wherein said one or more deformable elongate members comprise spaced apart first and second deformable elongate members each extending along said length.
32. A cover according to any one of claims 29 to 31, including first and second cover portions to compress said one or more sealing portions and said at least one sealing portion, respectively, against said one or fourth building module and said other building module or said first or third building module respectively.
33. A cover according to claim 32, wherein said one or more sealing portions and said at least one sealing portion are provided on undersides of said first cover portion and said second cover portion respectively.
34. A cover according to claim 32 or 33 as dependent from claim 27, which has a substantially T-shaped cross section, having a central leg that is locatable in the boundary and forms said mounting member, and said first and second cover portions.
35. A cover according to any one of claims 9, 21 to 23, any one of claims 24 to 28 as dependent therefrom, or any one of claims 29 to 34, wherein the, each, or at least one said, sealing portion comprises a gasket.
36. A cover according to any one of claims 1 tol4 and 19 to 35, including at least one exterior sealing cover or coating compressed or compressible against the, each, or at least one said, module.
37. A modular building including a cover according to any one of claims 1 to 14 and 19 to 36 and said building modules arranged one-beside-the-other, wherein at least one said cover overlies a said intersection or a said boundary between adjacent sides of said modules so arranged, being part of, integrally formed with, mounted on, engaged with a section of, or supported via, said one or fourth building module, and at least one cover portion of the cover is received over the, each, or at least one, other module to cover or provide coverage to it.
38. A modular building according to claim 37 wherein said cover accords with claim 19 or 20 or any one of claims 21 to 26 as dependent therefrom, wherein said building modules comprise first and second building modules arranged along a first axis, the building including a further building module and, in addition to said cover, another cover according to any one of claims19 or 20 or any one of claims 21 to 26 as dependent therefrom, wherein the first or second building module and the further building module are arranged one-beside-the-other along a second axis, which intersects with the first axis, the other cover overlies another boundary, which is between adjacent sides of the modules arranged along the second axis, being part of, integrally formed with, mounted on, or engaged with a section of, one of said modules arranged along the second axis, and at least one cover portion of said other cover is received over the other of said modules arranged along the second axis to cover or provide coverage to it.
39. A method of constructing the modular building of claim 37, in which said building modules are arranged one-beside-the-other and said cover is part of, integrally formed with, mounted on, or engaged with a section of, said one building module, and which includes pressing said at least one cover portion of the cover against, and/or bringing said at least one cover portion into contact with, said other building module whereby said other module is abutted and/or contacted by said cover portion(s) received thereover in the building.
40. A method according to claim 39, including positioning either building module relative to the other such that said building modules are so arranged, thereby bringing said at least one cover portion into contact and/or abutment with said other module.
41. A method according to claim 40, wherein the positioning of either module relative to the other comprises lowering the former next to the latter.
42. A method according to claim 40 or 41, wherein the positioning of either module relative to the other comprises laterally moving the former.
43. A method according to any one of claims 40 to 42, wherein the positioning comprises positioning said one building module next to said other building module.