GB2598115A - Method - Google Patents

Abstract

A method of generating a design for a healthcare facility which comprises internal modules corresponding to functionally distinct units, the method comprising receiving size data corresponding to the size of the facility, receiving module data corresponding to a selection of internal modules to be included, determining an arrangement of the selected modules based on the size data and module data, and generating a design based on the arrangement. Further, the method may generate a kit of parts required for the internal modules based on a determination using the arrangement of the selected modules. The facility may also include a utilities distribution system and a structural system, the arrangement of which are determined based on the arrangement of internal modules, and parts required are determined from this. The module data can further include a selection of submodules forming internal modules, which correspond to functionally distinct units in the internal module. The arrangement of selected modules can also include size, shape, and location of each module, and can be based on constraints based on size and/or module data or based on optimisation of parameters.

Description

METHOD

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to methods for constructing healthcare facilities

BACKGROUND

A typical medical facility can take three to five years to complete, from early concept planning and programming to design development, construction, and finally occupancy. Approximately half of this time is spent in risk management, such as validating program and building stakeholder consensus around customized solutions. The typical process has a series of sequential steps and approval processes, separated by time-consuming and sometimes imperfect hand-offs. Each hand-off poses a potential delay with unexpected expense or unpredictable outcomes.

An additional layer of complexity is added when building hospitals and clinics in developing countries (specifically in the non-urban, more remote regions of the world) where it becomes more difficult to find the structural engineers, designers, builders and surveyors required to build a world class medical facility via the traditional construction method. Such specialist resources are often centred in large urban areas, and deployment to remote areas is complicated and expensive.

The traditional construction method involves (i) erecting the steel and pouring the concrete to form the structure, (ii) installing the mechanical and electrical services, and (Hi) installing the medical equipment, furniture, fittings and utilities. This method is very labour intensive and requires a high degree of site coordination between specialist resources to ensure activities are carried out in the correct order. Furthermore, the specialist workers involved often require industry accreditation to measure, cut, terminate, install, and commission the complex network of pipes, cables, brackets, fittings etc that are required to service a medical facility. In addition to the specialists, an entire management layer is required to oversee the technical, operational, contractual and financial aspects of a project.

The traditional construction process is designed to ensure quality standards are met, and that a construction project is delivered on time and within budget. In reality, completions of many "new build" healthcare projects are delayed due to quality issues, planning delays, cost overruns and poor implementation of design at site. All these factors lead to poor value for those funding such projects and poor service to the communities the facility is intended to serve.

These problems are due in large part to the specialist nature of healthcare construction. It can be very challenging to assemble the myriad specialists and accredited professional consultants needed to deliver a healthcare project in any location, but this is especially the case in rural areas where such specialist skills may be scarce. As such, many would-be purchasers or sponsors are discouraged from committing to fund a "new build" medical facility due to the complexity, risk, and amount of administration involved, despite the clear health benefits for the local community.

As such, medical facilities in developing countries tend to be centred in urban areas even though the majority of the population often lives in rural regions.

Additionally, whether in developing countries or more mature markets, combining technology and cutting-edge hardware optimises the construction process by improving the way construction professionals design, schedule and deliver healthcare facilities -helping to enhance both quality and efficiency.

It is an aim of the present invention to at least partially address some of the problems discussed above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a method for constructing a healthcare facility, the method comprising: providing a kit of parts from which the healthcare facility can be constructed, the kit of parts comprising a first set of parts forming one or more internal modules corresponding to one or more functionally distinct units within the healthcare facility; wherein the step of providing the kit of parts comprises: receiving size data at a computer system, the size data including a size of the healthcare facility; receiving module data at the computer system, the module data including a selection of the one or more internal modules to be included in the healthcare facility; the computer system determining an arrangement of the selected internal modules, based on the size data and the module data; and the computer system determining the first set of parts based on the determined arrangement of the selected internal modules. Accordingly, a code compliant healthcare facility may be constructed in a highly efficient manner.

Optionally, the method comprises constructing the healthcare facility from the kit of parts Optionally, the module data further includes a selection of one or more submodules forming an internal module, submodules corresponding to functionally distinct units within an internal module.

Optionally, the determined arrangement of the selected internal modules includes a size, a shape and a location of each internal module.

Optionally, the arrangement of the selected internal modules is determined based on one or more constraints, the constraints being determined based on the size data and/or the module data.

Optionally, the constraints include one or more of: the size of the healthcare facility, including building footprint and/or number of building levels, a predetermined size of a selected internal module, a predetermined shape of a selected internal module, a predetermined location of a selected internal module, access requirements for selected internal modules, proximity requirements between selected internal modules, predetermined aspect ratios of selected internal modules, required solar exposure of selected internal modules, required views to outside of selected internal modules.

Optionally, the arrangement of the selected internal modules is determined based on optimization of one or more parameters.

Optionally, the optimization of one or more parameters include one or more of minimizing empty space within the healthcare facility; maximising natural light to selected internal modules, maximising accessibility to outside spaces from selected internal modules; optimizing foot traffic circulation patterns and volumes to/from selected internal modules.

Optionally, the step of providing the kit of parts further comprises: receiving arrangement adjustment data at the computer system, the arrangement adjustment data corresponding to an adjustment of the arrangement of the internal modules, and the computer system adjusting the arrangement of the internal modules based on the third data.

Optionally, the kit of parts further comprises a second set of parts forming a utilities distribution system for providing utilities to the internal modules forming the healthcare facility; and the step of providing the kit of parts further comprises: the computer system determining an arrangement of the utilities distribution system based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules; the computer system determining the second set of parts based on the determined arrangement of the utilities distribution system.

Optionally, the arrangement of the utilities distribution system is determined based on one or more constraints, the constraints being determined by the determined arrangement of the internal modules.

Optionally, the constraints include one or more of: predefined available space in ceiling void area, predefined location of above-ceiling fire walling and penetrations, location of structural steel elements (e.g. avoiding clashes with the same), the predetermined (elevator) position of services above ceiling (e.g. fire detection placed at the highest point of elevation to slab), predefined distances between services and predefined relative proximity of each service to the other.

Optionally, the arrangement of the utilities distribution system is determined based on optimization of one or more parameters.

Optionally, the optimization of one or more parameters include one or more of minimizing lateral and vertical space used to distribute utilities services; minimizing length of conduits and containment runs containing utilities services, minimizing horizontal and lateral space allocation within ceiling and wall voids.

Optionally, the kit of parts further comprises a third set of parts forming a structural system for providing structural support to the internal modules; the step of building the kit of parts further comprises: the computer system determining an arrangement of the structural system based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules; the computer system determining the third set of parts based on the determined arrangement of the structural system.

Optionally, the arrangement of the structural system is determined based on one or more constraints, the constraints being determined by the determined arrangement of the internal modules.

Optionally, the constraints include one or more of: dead and imposed load requirements, wind load requirements, imposed roof load requirements, seismic load requirements, requirements for climate and humidity.

Optionally, the arrangement of the structural system is determined based on optimization of one or more parameters.

Optionally, the optimization of one or more parameters include one or more of optimizing stress on and displacement of the structural system; optimizing material distributions of structural parts, optimizing thickness and positioning of structural parts; optimizing the placement of structural parts in order to avoid clashes with other materials and objects.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a computer implemented method for determining a kit of parts for a healthcare facility, the healthcare facility comprising one or more internal modules corresponding to one or more functionally distinct units within the healthcare facility, the computer implemented method comprising: receiving size data, the size data corresponding to a size of the healthcare facility; receiving module data, the module data corresponding to a selection of the one or more internal modules to be included in the healthcare facility; determining an arrangement of the selected internal modules, based on the size data and module data; determining parts required for the internal modules based on the determined arrangement of the selected internal modules.

Optionally, the healthcare facility comprises a utilities distribution system for providing utilities to the internal modules forming the healthcare facility; and the method comprises determining an arrangement of the utilities distribution system based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules, determining parts required for the utilities distribution system based on the determined arrangement of the utilities distribution system.

Optionally, the healthcare facility comprises a structural system for providing structural support to the internal modules; and the method comprises determining an arrangement of the structural system based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules; determining parts required for the structural system based on the determined arrangement of the structural system.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a computer implemented method for generating an architectural design for a healthcare facility, the healthcare facility comprising one or more internal modules corresponding to one or more functionally distinct units within the healthcare facility, the computer implemented method comprising: receiving size data, the size data corresponding to a size of the healthcare facility; receiving module data, the module data corresponding to a selection of the one or more internal modules to be included in the healthcare facility; determining an arrangement of the selected internal modules, based on the size data and module data; generating an architectural design based on the determined arrangement of the selected internal modules.

Optionally, the healthcare facility comprises a utilities distribution system for providing utilities to the internal modules forming the healthcare facility, and the method comprises determining an arrangement of the utilities distribution system based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules; generating an architectural design additionally based on the determined arrangement of the utilities distribution system.

Optionally, the healthcare facility comprises a structural system for providing structural support to the internal modules; and the method comprises determining an arrangement of the structural system based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules; generating an architectural design additionally based on the determined arrangement of the structural system.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided, a non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon software instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to execute the steps of the method of aspects two or three.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention there is provided a method of constructing a healthcare facility, the method comprising. providing one or more prefabricated multi-service distribution units, each comprising multiple sub-units for the distribution of multiple respective services, as a single integrated unit; installing the multiservice distribution units at locations requiring said services Optionally, the multi-service distribution units include primary distribution units and secondary distribution units, wherein: the primary distribution units distribute the services to the secondary distribution units, and the secondary distribution distribute the services to a user.

Optionally, the method comprises connecting two or more primary distribution units together.

Optionally, the method comprises connecting one or more secondary distribution units to a primary distribution unit.

Optionally, the medical facility is divided into one or more zones requiring said services, the method comprising: installing at least one primary distribution unit in each zone.

Optionally, the medical facility is divided into one or more zones requiring said services, the method comprising: installing at least one secondary distribution unit in each zone requiring said services.

Optionally, the method comprises installing at least one primary distribution unit adjacent a wall, floor or ceiling in said zone.

Optionally, the method comprises installing at least one secondary distribution unit at a wall, floor or ceiling in said zone. Optionally, the secondary distribution unit forms said wall.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention there is provided a kit of parts for the construction of a healthcare facility, comprising: one or more pre-fabricated multi-service distribution units, each comprising multiple sub-units for the distribution of multiple respective services, as a single integrated unit.

Optionally, the multi-service distribution units including primary distribution units and secondary distribution units, wherein: the primary distribution units are configured to connect to the secondary distribution units to distribute the services to the secondary distribution units, and the secondary distribution units comprise outlets configured to distribute the services to a user.

Optionally, the primary distribution units comprise connecting means for connecting to each other.

Optionally, the primary distribution units and the secondary distribution units comprise respective connecting means for connecting to each other.

Optionally, the secondary distribution units are configured to form internal walls of said medical facility.

According to a seventh aspect of the invention, there is provided a healthcare facility constructed from the kit of parts according to the second aspect.

In the method, kit of parts or healthcare facility of any proceeding aspect, the services may comprise one or more of electrical power, water, medical gasses, HVAC, data and telecommunications.

Embodiments of the invention may have one or more of the following features: Pre-configuring and modularising the most technically complex elements of the facility off-site in a controlled manufacturing environment, enabling straightforward assembly at site with minimal preparation.

* Pre-fabricating and manufacturing each standardised space within the medical facility off-site as stand-alone units, pre-populated with all required components and medical devices and with connection points enabling them to be joined to other units at site to form rooms and corridors of various sizes.

* Bundling and pre-dressing, services and utilities offsite (including pipes, cables, ducts, containment etc.) via an interface that allows services and utilities to be bundled and positioned utilizing a configurable modular routing system running above each unit within the ceiling void. This allows services to be positioned according to specific site and customer requirements (i.e., instead of having multiple pipes and cable mns installed in diverse locations, requiring multiple connection points, these same services will be consolidated, bundled and contained in a single enclosure connected via a single interface). This is achieved by developing a uniform configuration that comes in a variety of standard lengths which are then mounted in adjustable steel frames that enable final positioning and connection at site.

* Consolidating multiple devices and components required for patient care into a single wall panel (off-site) that can then be installed as a single unit and connected to services on-site.

* Strip Foundations which will provide apertures at equal distances to allow services and utilities to be routed through the apertures to an end point at any preferred site orientation (i e, a septic tank, a water storage tank, or a power generator, etc) All components may be engineered so that they fit within standard ISO shipping containers.

All components may be labelled with unique barcode identification to assist in manufacturing, delivery, assembly and operation.

All components may be manufactured using sustainable materials.

The advantages of the invention include decreasing delays, predicting costs, and delivering consistent results The invention enables the rapid delivery of complex healthcare facilities to a high quality and at a fixed cost. This may be achieved, for example, by applying a uniform design and development process to multiple products which standardises not only the modular construction of a medical facility but its delivery and assembly on-site, providing a fully-populated and commissioned turn-key solution with all medical equipment, furniture and fittings included, to healthcare stakeholders -all at a fixed price and compliant with applicable healthcare standards such as HBN standards. Quality and productivity may be maximised and costs minimised by managing the most complex, quality sensitive tasks in a controlled environment away from site, thus requiring less on-site resources.

Additionally, the materials are used in such a manner that the maintenance and costs of the facility are reduced -(i) aiding in energy conservation, (ii) improving occupant health and productivity, and (iii) resulting in greater design flexibility.

Embodiments of the invention aim to standardize, modularise, and prefabricate components of a healthcare facility. In addition to being easier to prefabricate, standardizing design elements such as a typical exam room has the advantage of ensuring quality by eliminating unintentional deviation from best practice.

Components of the facility can come together utilizing a modular, systematized process from manufacture to deployment, assembly and operation. A modular construction may produce consistent, repeatable elements that can be flexibly adapted and configured for different programming needs and sites, in almost unlimited ways in line with the customer's requirements.

Complex components such as interior wall partitions, entire medical rooms and mechanical services can be built off-site, and packaged with all necessary fittings enabling healthcare facilities to be quickly assembled on-site This reduces cost by saving time and the associated general conditions of managing a "dynamic' construction site. Most elements of a healthcare facility can be prefabricated, encompassing everything from interior wall panels to entire rooms, exterior envelope, and structural steel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is described below by way of non-limiting examples and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 schematically shows a primary distribution unit; Fig. 2 schematically shows a secondary distribution unit; Fig. 3 schematically shows a side view of an example arrangement of primary and secondary distribution units; Fig. 4 schematically shows a plan view of an example arrangement of primary and secondary distribution units; Fig. 5 schematically shows a plan view of a further example arrangement of primary and secondary distribution units; Fig. 6 schematically shows a plan view of a further example arrangement of primary and secondary distribution units; Fig. 7 schematically shows functional parts of an example computer system; Fig. 8 shows a user interface for interfacing with a site generator, Fig. 9 shows a user interface for interfacing with an architectural system generator 103; Fig. 10 shows a user interface for interfacing with the architectural system generator 103; Fig. 11 shows a user interface for interfacing with the architectural system generator 10; Fig. 12 shows a user interface for interfacing with the architectural system generator 10; Fig. 13 shows a user interface for nterfacing with the architectural system generator 10; Fig. 14 shows a user interface for interfacing with the architectural system generator 10; Fig. 15 shows a user interface for nterfacing with the architectural system generator 10; Fig. 16 shows a user interface for nterfacing with the mechanical system generator 104b Fig. 17 shows a user interface for interfacing with the electrical system generator 104c; Fig. 18 shows a user interface for interfacing with the It system generator 104d; Fig. 19 shows a user interface for interfacing with the structural system generator

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Healthcare facilities constructed according to the present invention may be formed from pre-fabricated modular parts. The modular parts may correspond to one of the following categories: internal modules, utilities distribution system and structural system.

Internal modules are functionally distinct units within the healthcare facility. The internal modules may be defined by a medical or non-medical function. For example, an internal module may be a diagnostic clinic, a birthing centre, a day surgery, a patient ward, or an x-ray and imaging clinic.

The internal modules may be formed from submodules. Each submodule may be an individual room within the healthcare facility. For example, submodules forming a diagnostic clinic may include: Treatment Rooms, Laboratories, Pharmacies and Consultation Room; submodules forming a birthing centre may include: Examination Rooms, Ultrasound Rooms, Birthing Rooms, Nurseries and Feeding Rooms; submodules forming a day surgery may include: Operating Theatres, Anaesthetic Rooms, Post Anaesthesia Care Units, Scrubbing Rooms, Dirty Utility Room; submodules forming a patient ward may include: Nurse Stations, Ward Rooms, Accessible WC and Shower Rooms and Clean Stores; submodules forming an x-ray and imaging clinic may include X Ray Room, Control Room, Waiting Area, Changing Area.

The medical functions of the internal modules and submodules may be defined by the medical equipment, or combinations of medical equipment provided therein. Treatment Rooms may contain ceiling mounted medical pendants and consolidated bedhead services units with medical gasses, data and power outlets, and patient monitoring devices. Laboratories may include HEPA & UV air filtration systems, biological safety cabinets and laminar air flow systems. Pharmacies may include controlled drugs cabinets, remotely monitored fridge units, and compounding drugs tools. Consultation Room may comprise diagnostic tools, vital sign monitors, and medical gasses. Examination Rooms may include ultrasound devices, Birthing Rooms including blood pressure monitoring devices, CPAP (continuous positive air pressure) devices, anaesthesia machines, delivery tables and vacuum apparatus. Nurseries may include resuscitaires and medical gasses. Operating Theatres may include ceiling mounted operating microscopes, surgical display systems, positive air pressure systems, air filtration systems, auxiliary battery power units and OR integration systems enabling remote decision support and collaboration. Anaesthetic Rooms and Post Anaesthesia Care Units may include cardiac monitoring equipment.

Scrubbing Rooms may include surgical sinks and automated plumbing fixtures. Dirty Utility Rooms may include autoclaves and sterilization equipment. Nurse Stations may include medical gas alarms, nurse call alarms and mobile medical equipment. Ward Rooms may include multi bed arrangements, privacy curtains and ensuite Accessible WC, Shower Rooms, and Clean Stores. X Ray Rooms may include X Ray apparatus, helium cooling systems, oxygen depletion systems, lead lined partitioning.] The internal modules may be formed from modular parts. These modular parts may include one or more of wall panels (as described below), ceiling panels, insulation materials and floor panels, medical equipment, conduits and containment for utilities services. Containment may include primary and secondary containment. Primary Containment (the trunk of the tree) is the main containment route through which services (Power, Air, Gas, Data etc) are directed within a building, usually in large baskets above ceiling, along corridors. Secondary Containment (the branches of the tree) are the "offshoots" used to direct services into individual rooms consisting of narrower steel baskets and individual (galvanized steel) conduits.

The utilities distribution system is configured to provide utilities to the internal modules. The utilities may include one or more of: electrical power, water, medical gasses, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (H VAC), data and telecommunications. Medical gases may include one or more of oxygen, medical air, nitrous oxide, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, medical vacuum, and anaesthetic gas.

The utilities distribution system may be formed from modular parts. These modular parts may include one or more of: pipes, cables, connectors, and casings. Some of these parts may be bundled together as a single pre-fabricate part. For example, The utilities distribution system may include primary distribution units 1, as described below.

The utilities distribution system may further comprise, water treatment plants, septic tanks, power generators (including solar generators).

The structural system is configured to provide structural support to the internal modules and the utilities distribution system. The structural system may include foundations, external walls, roofs, internal walls, ceilings, floors, etc. The structural system may be formed from modular parts. These modular parts may include one or more of: steel framing (e.g. cold formed), steel decking (e.g. cold formed), structural steel connections, and metal stud framing (e.g. steel or aluminium).

Below, with reference to Figs. Ito 6, is described examples of prefabricated modular parts forming the healthcare facility. It should be noted that pre-fabricated modular parts are optional.

Fig. 1 schematically shows an exemplary primary distribution unit 1 forming part of a utilities distribution system. The illustrated primary distribution unit 1 comprises an outer casing 11. The outer casing 11 may be formed from metal, such as galvanised steel. The outer casing 11 may be rectangular in cross section, for example. However, other suitable shapes may be used. The casing may be provided in one or more of a plurality of predetermined lengths, such as 3m, 6m and 12m lengths.

Primary supply lines 13, 14 for the delivery of different services are provided within the housing 11. The primary supply lines 13, 14 form sub-units of the primary distribution unit 1. Only two primary supply lines 13, 14 are illustrated. However, any number may be provided, depending on the services. Primary supply lines 13, 14 may include electrical and data cabling, piping for plumbing and medical gasses, and/or ducting for HVAC.

As shown, the primary distribution unit I may further comprise conduits 12 within the outer casing. As shown, some of the primary supply lines 13, 14 may be housed within respective conduits 12. The conduits 12 may be constructed from the same materials as the outer casing 11. The conduits 12 may be rectangular in cross-section, for example However, other suitable shapes may be used. Some supply lines may be contained on cable trays and/or wire baskets (such as electrical and telecommunications cables). Some supply lines may be fixed directly to the casing 11 (such as piping for medical gases and water).

The primary distribution units 1 are preferably connected to a mains supply for the respective services. This may be a direct connection or via one or more other primary distribution units 1. Accordingly, the primary distribution unit 1 may comprise connectors (not shown) for connecting to a mains supply and/or another primary distribution unit I. The primary distribution unit 1 may also comprise connectors for connecting to wall panels 2, as described below.

Fig. 2 schematically shows an exemplary wall panel 2, forming part of an internal module. The illustrated wall panel 2 comprises a housing 21 provided with outlets 22, 23 for the respective services. As illustrated, multiple outlets may be provided for each service. Only two different types of outlet are illustrated. However, any number may be provided, depending on the services.

The outlets 22, 23 may be connected to respective secondary supply lines 24, 25 for the delivery of respective services to the outlets 22, 23. The secondary supply lines 24, 25 may be connected at the other end to connectors 26, 27. The connectors 26, 27 may be for the connection of the wall panel 2 to a primary distribution unit 1 and/or another wall panel 2. The outlets 22, 23, secondary supply lines 24, 25 and connectors 25, 26 for the different services comprise respective sub-units of the wall panel 2.

The housing 21 may be formed from a frame and a cover on one side of the frame.

The frame may be formed from metal such as aluminium. The frame may be extruded. the frame may be rectangular in shape, as shown. The frame may further comprise compartments (not shown) for housing the secondary supply lines 24, 25. These compartments may separate medical gasses from power cables and other components, for example. These compartments may also mitigate electromagnetic and radio frequency interference to data cables.

The cover may be formed from plastic, for example. The cover provides a fascia to the frame. Outlets 23, 24 may be provided in the cover. The outlets 23, 24 may comprise data ports, medical gas outlets (e.g. for oxygen, vacuum, and/or nitrous oxide), for example. The cover may further comprise devices connected or mounted thereto and/or connected to the outlets 23, 24. For example, nurse call buttons, cardiac alarms, patient monitoring devices, adjustable IV poles, patient lighting controls, and other medical equipment may be provided. Metal stud framing attached to the frame may be used to support equipment.

The wall panels 2 may incorporate a Diameter Index Safety System where medical gasses are supplied through threaded connectors that have a unique diameter for each type of gas improving safety by for example, preventing a carbon dioxide supply being connected to an oxygen outlet. External labelling may clearly indicate critical circuits for medical systems, and alarms.

The frame may comprise (e.g., metal) mounting brackets for mounting the wall panel 2 to a building structure.

The wall panel 2 may incorporate equipotential earth bonding between conducting elements.

The wall panels 2 may be provided in various sizes depending on medical space they are serving. For a patient ward for example, wall panels 2 may have a width of 750mm, a height of 1500mm and a depth of 80mm. In a critical care environment or operating theatre, wall panels 2 may extend beyond 1000mm in width, 2000mm in height and 300mm in depth to accommodate the volume of components and services required. As illustrated in Fig. 3 primary distribution units 1 may be positioned in spaces 31 above rooms or corridors 3. Primary distribution units 1 may be fastened to structural steel girders of the facility by galvanised steel clamps, for example. The primary distribution units may be positioned above rooms and/or corridors 3, e.g., by crane or forklift.

Lateral adjustment for aligning services between primary distribution units 1 may be provided by cross slide connectors connected to the housing 11. Vertical adjustment may be provided by threaded rod connected to the housing 11 and building structure. This may enable services between primary distribution units 1 to be aligned prior to connection and termination. Longitudinal adjustment may be provided by galvanised steel beam clamps As illustrated in Fig 3, wall panels 2 may be mounted to walls of the building structure, forming part of a structural system. In particular, as shown the wall panels 2 may be configured to themselves form internal walls. These may be installed as a single unit using a lifting trolley. The wall panels 2 may be attached to metal studding forming the internal walls of the building structure, e.g., through metal fixing channels whereby the units can be aligned and secured utilizing adjustable cage nuts. Fixing channels may then be sealed by rubber strip beading which can be removed when internal access is required. Wall panels 2 may be disinfected by applying vaporized hydrogen peroxide.

Fig. 4 schematically shows a plan view of an example arrangement of primary distribution units 1 and wall panels 2. As shown, primary distribution units 1 may be connected together to distribute services between the primary distribution units 1.

Multi-pin connectors with secure docking plates may be used to connect power between primary distribution units I. Supply line for medical gasses may be joined together by coupling and brazing the joints in metal pipes. Data and telecommunications cables may be consolidated into multi-core looms, and may be connected between primary distribution units 1 by couplers in patch panels. Piping, such as supply lines for water, may be connected between primary distribution units 1 using mechanical connectors. Flexible pre-insulated, multi-layered, composite pipes" may be used to enable bends and curves to be moulded into the correct profile to enable connection. Isolation valves may be connected to pipes to enable control of pipe supply and returns.

Ducting 4, also forming part of the utilities distribution system, may be connected between primary distribution units 1. For example galvanised steel G-clamps may be used to connect rectangular HVAC ducting between primary distribution units 1. Flexible ducting may be used to connect HVAC ducting from primary distribution units 1 to HVAC supply and return registers in rooms and/or corridors.

Primary distribution units 1 may be connected to wall panels 2 to distribute services to the wall panels 2. Primary distribution units 1 and wall panels 2 may be connected to form a contiguous network for services to be delivered throughout the healthcare facility.

A primary distribution unit 1 may distribute services to a plurality of wall panels 2. As shown in Fig. 3 the primary distribution unit 1 may be connected directly to each wall panel 2 supplied by the primary distribution unit. Connections are illustrated by arrows in Fig. 5.

Fig. 6 illustrates an alternative arrangement in which a primary distribution unit 1 is directly connected not to all of the wall panels 1 but to a subset of the wall panels 2 (one in this example). The wall panels 2 not directly connected to a primary distribution unit 1 may be indirectly connected to a primary distribution unit via one or more other wall panels 2, as shown.

Multi-pin connectors with secure docking plates may be used to connect power between primary distribution units 1 and wall panels 2, and wall panels 2 and other wall panels 2. Supply line for medical gasses may be joined together by coupling and brazing the joints in metal pipes. Data and telecommunications cables may be consolidated into multi-core looms, and may be connected between primary distribution units 1 and wall panels 2, and wall panels 2 and other wall panels 2, by couplers in patch panels. Piping, such as supply lines for water, may be connected between primary distribution units 1 and wall panels 2, and wall panels 2 and other wall panels 2, using mechanical connectors. Flexible pre-insulated, multi-layered, composite pipes, may be used to enable bends and curves to be moulded into the correct profile to enable connection. Isolation valves may be connected to pipes to enable control of pipe supply and returns.

The healthcare facility may be divided into a number of zones requiring services. Zones may comprise a single room or corridor, or multiple rooms or corridors. The zones may cover a specific floor area, for example. Preferably, each room 3 is serviced by one primary distribution unit as shown in the Figures. At least one primary distribution unit 1 may be installed in each zone. At least one wall panel 2 may be installed in each zone. Fig. 7 schematically shows an example computer system 100 in accordance with the present invention. Fig. 7 shows a user interface 101, a site generator 102, an architectural system generator 103, a utilities system generator 104, and a structural system generator 105, each forming functional parts of the computer system 100. As shown, the utilities system generator 104 may comprise a plumbing system generator 104a, a mechanical system generator 104b (e.g. for HVAC), an electrical system generator 104c and an IT system generator 104d.

The user interface 101 is configured to receive data input by a user and transmit said data to the site generator 102, the architectural system generator 103, the utilities system generator 104, and the structural system generator 105. The user interface 101 may also display data generated by the site generator 102, the architectural system generator 103, the utilities system generator 104, and the structural system generator 105. Each of the functional parts of the computer system 100 may be configured to communicate information with each other, as shown by the arrows in Fig. 7.

The operation of the site generator 102 is described below.

During operation of the example computer system 100, the user interface 101 may request location data from the user defining the location of the healthcare facility. This may be in the form of an address, GPS data or the like. The location data is transmitted to the site generator 102. The site generator 102 generates data corresponding to a site on which the healthcare facility is to be built, based on the location data. The site generator may obtain additional data from external sources, such as topography data corresponding to the topography of the location. The user may define the location of the healthcare facility by drawing on a map, via the user interface 100, as shown by the dashed line in Fig. 8. The user may additionally specify a region of the plot reserved for an ancillary function, such as parking, for example. The site generator 102 may determine an optimal orientation and/or layout of the plot based on the location data, including topography data. The optimal orientation may be based on maximizing solar energy to the site, or maximising natural lighting to the site, and/or the location of existing services and utilities (including sub surface routes), storm water, traffic access and egress routes, for

example.

The operation of the architectural system generator 103 is described below.

The user interface 101 requests the user to input size data defining a size of the healthcare facility. This size data may include the building footprint area and the number of floors, or the total building area, for example. The size data may be based on geographical boundaries, building plot area, internal buildable area, number of levels, existing traffic and pedestrian access and egress pathways. The user interface 101 may optionally request footprint data defining the shape of the building footprint. This may be in the form of a selection from a predefined list of possible footprint options. The footprint options may include square, rectangular, oval, star-shaped, L-shaped, H-shaped, and others, for example. The user interface 101 further requests the user to input module data, the module data including a selection of one or more internal modules to be included in the healthcare facility. This may be in the form of a selection from a predefined list of possible internal modules, as shown in Fig. 9.

This data is transmitted to the architectural system generator 103. Based on this data, the architectural system generator 103 determines a first arrangement of the selected internal modules, as shown in Fig. 9, for example. The first arrangement of the selected internal modules may be determined based on constraints include one or more of: the size of the healthcare facility, including building footprint and/or number of building levels, a predetermined size of a selected internal module, a predetermined shape of a selected internal module, a predetermined location of a selected internal module, access requirements for selected internal modules, proximity requirements between selected internal modules, predetermined aspect ratios of selected internal modules, required solar exposure of selected internal modules, required views to outside of selected internal modules. The first arrangement of the selected internal modules may be determined based on the optimization of one or more parameters including one or more of minimizing empty space within the healthcare facility; maximising natural light to selected internal modules, maximising accessibility to outside spaces; optimizing foot traffic circulation patterns and volumes. The arrangement may be presented to the user in graphic form by the user interface 101, as shown in Fig. 9.

The user may optionally be requested to input arrangement adjustment data corresponding to an adjustment of the fist arrangement of the internal modules, via the user interface 100. The adjustment data may be input in the form of a dragging gesture using a cursor or touch screen of the user interface 100, as shown in Fig. 10, for example. The architectural system generator 103 may automatically adjust the arrangement of other modules, not adjusted by the user, based on the adjustment of the arrangement of internal modules adjusted by the user. The automatic adjustment may be determined based on the same constraints and optimized parameters discussed above. However, additional constraints may be applied based on the adjustment data, such as to fix a location of an internal module that has been set by the adjustment data. Accordingly, further design control is afforded to the user.

The user may be requested to input submodule data including a selection of one or more submodules forming an internal module. The submodule data may be included as part of the module data. This data may include the selection of one or more types of submodule from a list of possible submodule types and, optionally, a number of submodules of a given type, as shown in Fig. II and Fig. 12. The user interface 101 may be configured to allow the selection of only particular types of submodule for a given internal module, based on the selection of the internal module. The user interface 101, may automatically select one or more particular types of submodules, e.g. that are essential for a given internal module, based on the module data. The user interface 101 may automatically select one or more particular types of submodules, e.g. that are associated with one or more other submodules, based on a user selection of the one or more other submodules. Further, the user interface 101 may automatically alter a number of one or more particular types of submodules, that are associated with one or more other submodules, based on a user selection of the number of the one or more other submodules.

The user may be requested to input submodule properties data including a selection of one or more properties to be included within a submodule. The submodule properties data may be included as part of the submodule data. The properties may be specific parts to be included within a submodules, such as medical equipment. This data may include the selection of one or more properties from a list of possible properties and, optionally, a number of properties of a given type, as shown in Fig. 14. The user interface 101 may be configured to allow the selection of only particular properties for a given submodule, based on the selection of the submodule. The user interface 101 may automatically select one or more particular properties, e.g. that are essential for a given submodule, based on the submodule data. The user interface 101 may automatically select one or more properties, e.g. that are associated with one or more other properties, based on a user selection of the one or more other properties. Further, the user interface 101 may automatically alter a number of one or more particular properties, that are associated with one or more other properties, based on a user selection of the number of the one or more other properties.

The architectural system generator 103 may receive and process the module data, optionally including the submodule data, optionally including the submodule properties data, as each type of data is input (e.g, after each stage described above), or after each individual data item (e.g. a single selection) is input to the user interface 103. This allows the determined arrangement of the internal modules to be updated dynamically, as shown by the difference between Figs. 11 and 12. Alternatively, the user may instruct the determination of the arrangement of internal modules via the user interface 103 at any time, based on the data input up to that time. It is preferable that the first arrangement described above be determined directly after selection of at least one internal module.

As illustrated by Figs. 12 and 13, the determined arrangement may be automatically generated based on a relatively low resolution data, e g where each submodules is represented by a block of a predetermined size. This reduces processing load during dynamic updating of the arrangement by the architectural module 103. At the request of the user, for example, a relatively detailed, higher resolution, arrangement may be provided. This relatively detailed arrangement may include additional features of the internal modules, including the individual parts that the internal modules are formed from. In addition to internal module data, the user interface may request and transmit to the architectural system generator 103, building envelope data. The building envelope data may define a cladding system, glazing system and/or roof system to be used for the building envelope of the healthcare facility. This data may include the selection of a type of cladding from a list of possible cladding types (e.g. manufacturer, model and colour); the selection of a type of glazing from a list of possible glazing types (e.g. manufacturer and model); and the selection of a type of roofing from a list of possible roofing types (e.g. flat, sloped or gabled), as shown in Fig. 15. Based on this data, the architectural system generator 103 may determine an arrangement of the building envelope. The arrangement of the building envelope may be determined based on one or more constraints including: local environmental conditions, weather barrier requirements, climate control requirements, condensations control requirements, fire safety requirements, security and sound insulation requirements, energy efficiency requirements. The user interface may display a graphic representation of the arrangement.

The operation of the utilities system generator 104 is described below.

Based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules, and optionally the utilities data, the plumbing system generator 104a determines an arrangement of the utilities system of the healthcare facility. This may include: gathering all fixtures and equipment that require water supply; gathering water heaters and water supply devices; schematically connecting all plumbing fixtures and equipment to devices to supply sources; gathering all fixtures and equipment that require gas supply, gathering gas source connections; schematically connecting all gas fixtures and equipment to supply sources; generating sprinkler layout; gathering all rooms and spaces that require fire suppression solutions; place sprinkler heads and fire extinguishers; schematically connect sprinklers to system / fire riser room / fire pump. The arrangement of the utilities may be determined based on optimizing one or more parameters including: supply and return routing, system pressure and flow rates, placement of vision panels, monitoring, detection and alarm devices, access space (for maintenance).

The user interface 101 may request the user input utilities data including a type of HVAC unit (e.g. from a list of possible types), the number of units and/or the unit size. Based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules, and optionally the utilities data, the mechanical system generator 104b determines an arrangement of the utilities system of the healthcare facility, as shown in Fig. 16. This may include: detecting room/space ventilation requirements; placing air receptacles (return, supply, transfer, etc.) placing mechanical units; and schematically connecting all parts of the system. The arrangement of the utilities may be determined based on optimizing one or more parameters including: air flow rates, air changes (per hour), pressure regimes (positive and negative) and variable air volumes and temperature.

The user interface 101 may request the user input utilities data including a type of electrical source, e.g. from a list of possible types including: on-grid, off-grid, hybrid, type of off-grid including: solar, wind, fossil fuel generator Based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules, and optionally the utilities data, the electrical system generator 104c determines an arrangement of the utilities system of the healthcare facility, as shown in Fig. 17. This may include: generate receptacles layout, generating lighting layout; generating exit signage layout; generate fire alarm layout; generating cardiac alarm layout; generate medical gas alarm layout; generating duress alarm layout; generating security camera layout; generating occupancy sensor layout; generating nurse call device layout; connecting all electrical devices and equipment to circuits, panels and source. The arrangement of the utilities may be determined based on one or more constraints including: predefined distancing between components, predefined relative proximity of each device to one another, to the patient and/or to the care giver. In each care environment, the system will identify the optimum location for objects and devices within each space to achieve a coordinated and code compliant design.

Based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules, and optionally the utilities data, the IT system generator 104d determines an arrangement of the utilities system of the healthcare facility, as shown in Fig. 18. This may include: generating Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) alarm layout; generating Voice Over IP (VOIP) / Telephone layout; connecting IT wired devices to sewer room; generating circuits. The arrangement of the utilities may be determined based on one or more constraints including: predetermined ratios between room data outlets and switches, servers and redundant device components, scaling ratios that ensure sufficient devices are specified to provide the service and coverage required within the space, bandwidth requirements for each system and applied quality of service for prioritizing critical events and ensuring sufficient capacity when network traffic reaches full capacity. Accordingly, the system is able to identify the optimum quantity and location of objects and devices within each space.

The operation of the structural system generator 105 is described below. The user interface 101 may request the user input structural data including a foundation type, and load requirements, e.g. wind load, snow load, or seismic load requirements. The foundation type may be selected by a user, via the user interface 101, from a list of possible foundation types, e.g. slab on grade, or stem wall foundations. Based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules, optionally the arrangement of the building envelope, and optionally the structural data, the structural system generator 105 determines an arrangement of the structural system of the healthcare facility, as shown in Fig. 19. The arrangement of the structural system is based on one or more constraints including: dead and imposed load requirements, wind load requirements, imposed roof load requirements, seismic load requirements, requirements for climate and humidity. Wind load, seismic load and climate and humidity requirements may be determined based on data about the build site. The arrangement of the structural system is determined based on optimization of one or more parameters including: optimizing stress on and displacement of the structural system; optimizing material distributions, optimizing thickness and positioning of structural members; optimizing the placement of structural members in order to avoid clashes with other materials and objects.

Each of the architectural system generator 103, the utilities system generator 104, and the structural system generator 105 may respectively generate an architectural design for the determined internal module arrangement, building envelope arrangement, utilities system arrangement, and structural system arrangement. The individual architectural designs may be built on top of one another to generate a single overall architectural design.

The determined internal module arrangement, building envelope arrangement, utilities system arrangement, and structural system arrangement may be stored as building information modelling (BB/I) data compatible with suitable software (e.g. Autodesk® Revitt).

A list of parts for the healthcare facility can be generated based on the determined internal module arrangement, building envelope arrangement, utilities system arrangement, and/or structural system arrangement. This may be extracted from the architectural design(s) described above. The healthcare facility can be constructed from a kit of parts built based on the list of parts described above, e.g. based on the architectural design.

It should be understood that variations of the above described examples are possible and the invention may be practised otherwise than specifically described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined by the claims.

Claims (8)

1. CLAIMS1. A method for constructing a healthcare facility, the method comprising: providing a kit of parts from which the healthcare facility can be constructed, the kit of parts comprising a first set of parts forming one or more internal modules corresponding to one or more functionally distinct units within the healthcare facility; wherein the step of providing the kit of parts comprises: receiving size data at a computer system, the size data including a size of the healthcare facility; receiving module data at the computer system, the module data including a selection of the one or more internal modules to be included in the healthcare facility; the computer system determining an arrangement of the selected internal modules, based on the size data and the module data; the computer system determining the first set of parts based on the determined arrangement of the selected internal modules.
2. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: constructing the healthcare facility from the kit of parts.
3. 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the module data further includes a selection of one or more submodules forming an internal module, submodules corresponding to functionally distinct units within an internal module.
4. 4. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the determined arrangement of the selected internal modules includes a size, a shape and a location of each internal module.
5. 5. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the arrangement of the selected internal modules is determined based on one or more constraints, the constraints being determined based on the size data and/or the module data.
6. 6. The method of claim 7, wherein the constraints include one or more of: the size of the healthcare facility, including building footprint and/or number of building levels, a predetermined size of a selected internal module, a predetermined shape of a selected internal module, a predetermined location of a selected internal module, access requirements for selected internal modules, proximity requirements between selected internal modules, predetermined aspect ratios of selected internal modules, required solar exposure of selected internal modules, required views to outside of selected internal modules.
7. 7. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the arrangement of the selected internal modules is determined based on optimization of one or more parameters.The method of claim 9, wherein the optimization of one or more parameters include one or more of: minimizing empty space within the healthcare facility; maximising natural light to selected internal modules, maximising accessibility to outside spaces from selected internal modules; optimizing foot traffic circulation patterns and volumes to/from selected internal modules.
8. 8. 20 9. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the step of providing the kit of parts further comprises: receiving arrangement adjustment data at the computer system, the arrangement adjustment data corresponding to an adjustment of the arrangement of the internal modules, arid the computer system adjusting the arrangement of the internal modules based on the third data.The method of any preceding claim, wherein the kit of parts further comprises a second set of parts forming a utilities distribution system for providing utilities to the internal modules forming the healthcare facility; and the step of providing the kit of parts further comprises: the computer system determining an arrangement of the utilities distribution system based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules, the computer system determining the second set of parts based on the determined arrangement of the utilities distribution system 11. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the arrangement of the utilities distribution system is determined based on one or more constraints, the constraints being determined by the determined arrangement of the internal modules 12. The method of claim 15, wherein the constraints include one or more of: predefined available space in ceiling void area, predefined location of above-ceiling fire walling and penetrations, location of structural steel elements (e.g. avoiding clashes with the same), the predetermined (elevator) position of services above ceiling (e.g. fire detection placed at the highest point of elevation to slab), predefined distances between services and predefined relative proximity of each service to the other..13. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the arrangement of the utilities distribution system is determined based on optimization of one or more parameters.14. The method of claim 17, wherein the optimization of one or more parameters include one or more of minimizing lateral and vertical space used to distribute utilities services; minimizing length of conduits and containment runs containing utilities services, minimizing horizontal and lateral space allocation within ceiling and wall voids.15. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the kit of parts further comprises a third set of parts forming a structural system for providing structural support to the internal modules; the step of building the kit of parts further comprises: the computer system determining an arrangement of the structural system based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules; the computer system determining the third set of parts based on the determined arrangement of the structural system.16. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the arrangement of the selected internal modules is determined based on one or more constraints, the constraints being determined by the determined arrangement of the internal modules 17. The method of claim 15, wherein the constraints include one or more of: dead and imposed load requirements, wind load requirements, imposed roof load requirements, seismic load requirements, requirements for climate and humidity..18. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the arrangement of the selected internal modules is determined based on optimization of one or more parameters.19. The method of claim 17, wherein the optimization of one or more parameters include one or more of optimizing stress on and displacement of the structural system; optimizing material distributions of structural parts, optimizing thickness and positioning of structural parts, optimizing the placement of structural parts to avoid clashes with other materials and objects..20. A computer implemented method for determining a kit of parts for a healthcare facility, the healthcare facility comprising one or more internal modules corresponding to one or more functionally distinct units within the healthcare facility, the computer implemented method comprising: receiving size data, the size data corresponding to a size of the healthcare facility; receiving module data, the module data corresponding to a selection of the one or more internal modules to be included in the healthcare facility; determining an arrangement of the selected internal modules, based on the size data and module data; determining parts required for the internal modules based on the determined arrangement of the selected internal modules.21. The computer implemented method of claim 20, the healthcare facility comprising a utilities distribution system for providing utilities to the internal modules forming the healthcare facility; and determining an arrangement of the utilities distribution system based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules; determining parts required for the utilities distribution system based on the determined arrangement of the utilities distribution system.22. The computer implemented method of claim 20 or 21, the healthcare facility comprising a structural system for providing structural support to the internal modules; determining an arrangement of the structural system based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules, determining parts required for the structural system based on the determined arrangement of the structural system.23 A computer implemented method for generating an architectural design for a healthcare facility, the healthcare facility comprising one or more internal modules corresponding to one or more functionally distinct units within the healthcare facility, the computer implemented method comprising: receiving size data, the size data corresponding to a size of the healthcare facility; receiving module data, the module data corresponding to a selection of the one or more internal modules to be included in the healthcare facility; determining an arrangement of the selected internal modules, based on the size data and module data, generating an architectural design based on the determined arrangement of the selected internal modules 24. The computer implemented method of claim 23, the healthcare facility comprising a utilities distribution system for providing utilities to the internal modules forming the healthcare facility; and determining an arrangement of the utilities distribution system based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules; generating an architectural design additionally based on the determined arrangement of the utilities distribution system.The computer implemented method of claim 23 or 23, the healthcare facility comprising a structural system for providing structural support to the internal modules; determining an arrangement of the structural system based on the determined arrangement of the internal modules; generating an architectural design additionally based on the determined arrangement of the structural system.