NL2017798B1

NL2017798B1 - Modular building structure with reinforced beams, cuboid corner elements and connector elements

Info

Publication number: NL2017798B1
Application number: NL2017798A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Vleugels Florentijn; Den Older Bas; Habraken Arjan; Verhoeven Peter; Lucas Maria Oerlemans Paulus; De Ruiter Gert-Jan
Original assignee: Mdlx B V
Priority date: 2016-11-16
Filing date: 2016-11-16
Publication date: 2018-05-25

Abstract

The current invention concerns in a first aspect a modular building structure comprising a frame, comprising horizontal beams, vertical beams, and cuboid corner elements, whereby the end portions of said beams are detachably connected to said corner elements by use of connection means. In particular, said connection means comprise connector elements, each connector element comprising an elongated connector body, and said beams define a cavity with openings at either end, suitable for receiving a connector body, whereby a connector body is positioned into each beam cavity at least at one end, while the proximal ends of the connector elements are detachably connected to the corner elements. In a second aspect, the current invention describes a kit for constructing a modular building structure as describe above.

Description

MODULAR BUILDING STRUCTURE WITH REINFORCED BEAMS, CUBOID CORNER ELEMENTS AND CONNECTOR ELEMENTS

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention pertains to the technical field of modular supporting constructions comprising beams and cuboid corner elements, whereby the construction comprises a cuboid frame.

BACKGROUND

Houses are generally still built in an old-fashioned way based on bricks and concrete, similar as was done centuries ago. Although the number of people living in a house is changing over time and a family requires correspondingly more or less space in their dwelling, these concrete houses are hard to expand or reduce in size. Moreover, even if only a small part of the building needs to be renovated, significant parts of the building need to be damaged and replaced in order to perform the renovations, resulting in a significant additional renovation cost. Therefore, there is a need in the art to construct housing that is adaptable to the specific needs of an individual or a family, whereby the construction can be temporary and displaceable.

Modular supporting structures, which can be disassembled and reassembled with the original components, provide a solution for the above problem. Over the years, several solutions for providing modular constructions have been suggested. To date, none of the proposed solutions truly offers a complete modular solution for housings which can be assembled and disassembled multiple times, and which offers endless flexibility. NL 7 801 286 discloses a frame comprising horizontal and vertical beams and steel cube junction elements, whereby the beams can be connected by the junction elements to form an internal space. However, due to stabilization of the structure, the connection details are made bending stiff, resulting in maximum force translation at the node locations. This can result in the bending and bursting of the beams. Therefore, the frame disclosed by this document does not provide the required rigidity to serve as the basic structure of a multilevel building.

Moreover, NL 7 801 286 does not describe that the construction can be used for modular building, thereby sustaining considerable forces.

There remains a need in the art for improved modular supporting structures. The present invention aims to resolve at least some of the problems mentioned above.

The invention thereto aims to provide a modular building structure with the required resistance and firmness to resist the forces acting on such buildings. The invention can easily be assembled and disassembled into the core units, and offers a high degree of flexibility as buildings can be amended freely, depending on the needs of the user or habitant.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a modular building structure according to claim 1 and a kit for the construction of a modular building structure according to claim 20. The present invention may thereto be described by the following embodiments: 1. A modular building structure comprising a frame, comprising horizontal beams, vertical beams, and cuboid corner elements, whereby the end portions of said beams are detachably connected to said corner elements by use of connection means, characterized in that: said connection means comprise connector elements, each connector element comprising an elongated connector body, and - said beams define a cavity with openings at either end, suitable for receiving a connector body, whereby a connector body is positioned into each beam cavity at least at one end, while the proximal ends of the connector elements are detachably connected to the corner elements. 2. The modular building structure according to claim 1, characterized in that the beam cavities are beam-shaped, the openings at either end of the cavities are rectangular, and that the connector bodies are beam-shaped as well, with a rectangular cross section, equal in size to or smaller than said openings. 3. The modular building structure according to the previous claim, characterized in that the interior of the beams is provided with at least one track and the connector elements each comprise at least one slider, provided externally and along at least a part of the length of the connector body, whereby said sliders correspond to said tracks. 4. The modular building structure according to any of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the openings are square-shaped, the connector bodies have a square cross section, and the corner elements are cubic. 5. The modular building structure according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that both the ratio of the length of the connector body to the length of the horizontal beam and the ratio of the length of the connector body to the length of the vertical beam are between 1 to 20 and 7 to 20. 6. The modular building structure according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that, in case of the horizontal and/or vertical beams, the connector body is secured into the beam cavity using a transverse pin, inserted orthogonally to the beam axis through a set of co-axial holes in both the connector body and two opposite walls of the beam. 7. The modular building structure according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that at the proximal end portion of each connector element comprises at least one transverse edge, whereby said edge is detachably connected to a corner element. 8. The modular building structure according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that each connector element comprises a longitudinal pin at its distal end, enclosed by a corresponding receptacle attached to the beam in question. 9. The modular building structure according to claim 7, characterized in that, in case of a horizontal beam, said receptacle comprises a galvanized or stainless steel tube segment. 10. The modular building structure according to any of claims 7 and 8, characterized in that, in case of the horizontal and/or vertical beams, one galvanized or stainless steel tube, extending between the longitudinal pins at either end, is used as receptacle for the longitudinal pins. 11. The modular building structure according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that at least one wall of each beam is externally provided with a recess along one or more parts of the length of the beam, said recesses holding substantially C-, U- or T-shaped fixation profiles. 12. The modular building structure according to claim 10, characterized in that said fixation profiles are manufactured from galvanized or stainless steel. 13. The modular building structure according to any of claims 10 and 11, characterized in that the modular building structure further comprises floor modules, roof modules and/or window/wall modules, said modules being detachably connected at least to one or more of said fixation profiles. 14. The modular building structure according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the frame defines one, interconnected cavity, suitable for guiding utility cables and/or pipelines for provisions in the building structure. 15. The modular building structure according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the connector elements and the corner elements are manufactured at least partly from a metal. 16. The modular building structure according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the connector elements and the corner elements are manufactured from galvanized or stainless steel. 17. The modular building structure according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the horizontal and vertical beams are manufactured from galvanized or stainless steel and a second material, comprising wood, laminate, polymer, composite, concrete, veneer and/or a combination thereof. 18. The modular building structure according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the frame additionally comprises foundation elements, and that the corner elements comprised in the bottom portion of the frame are detachably supported by said foundation elements. 19. The modular building structure according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the structure comprises one or more levels. 20. A kit for constructing a modular building structure, comprising a plurality of cuboid corner elements, a plurality of horizontal and vertical beams, and a plurality of connection means, whereby the beam end portions are detachably connectable to the corner elements by use of said connection means, characterized in that

Said connection means comprise connector elements, each connector element comprising an elongated connector body, and Said beams define a cavity with openings at either end, suitable for receiving a connector body, whereby the connector bodies can be retractably positioned into the beam cavities at either end, while the proximal ends of the connector elements can be detachably connected to the corner elements. 21.The kit for constructing a modular building structure according to claim 19, characterized in that said kit is configured to construct a modular building structure according to any of claims 1 to 18.

DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

Figure 1 gives a perspective view on an embodiment of the frame of a modular building structure.

Figure 2 gives an exploded view of an embodiment of a modular building structure, whereby the different components are disassembled as to illustrate the construction of said building structure.

Figure 3 gives a perspective view on an embodiment of a modular building structure, elucidating on the interior of the structure.

Figure 4 gives a perspective view on an embodiment of a cuboid corner element.

Figure 5 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of a cuboid corner element, a connector element and an end portion of a beam, elucidating on how these elements are detachably connected to each other.

Figure 6 gives a side view on an embodiment of a horizontal beam and a vertical beam, connected to a cuboid corner element.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention concerns modular supporting constructions comprising beams and cuboid corner elements, whereby the construction comprises a cuboid frame.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in disclosing the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. By means of further guidance, term definitions are included to better appreciate the teaching of the present invention.

With the term "multilevel structure" is referred to building structures comprising more than one floor.

With the term "composite material" (also called a composition material) is referred to a material made from two or more constituent materials with significantly different physical or chemical properties that, when combined, produce a material with characteristics different from the individual components. The individual components remain separate and distinct within the finished structure. The new material may be preferred for many reasons: common examples include materials which are stronger, lighter, or less expensive when compared to traditional materials.

With "detachably connected", "a detachable connection" (in Dutch: "losmaakbaar verbonden" and "een losmaakbare verbinding"), and similar constructions, we indicate that the two elements involved are connected, yet this connection can be made undone and remade over and over, fairly easy, and without breaking any physical bond, for instance by unscrewing one or more nuts, by removing any securing pins, by retractably pulling a body from a holder, and similar practices.

In a first aspect, the invention describes a modular building structure comprising a frame, comprising horizontal beams, vertical beams, and cuboid corner elements, whereby the end portions of said beams are detachably connected to said corner elements by use of connection means. In particular: - said connection means comprise connector elements, each connector element comprising an elongated connector body, and - said beams define a cavity with openings at either end, suitable for receiving a connector body, whereby a connector body is positioned into each beam cavity at least at one end, while the proximal ends of the connector elements are detachably connected to the corner elements. A corner element can be connected to the end portion of only one beam, which can be a horizontal or a vertical beam. Alternatively, a corner element can be connected to two beams, forming an angle of either about 90° or about 180°. Alternatively, a corner element can be connected to three beams, each set of two beams forming an angle of 90° or 180°. Alternatively, a corner element can be connected to four beams, each set of two beams forming an angle of 90° or 180°. Alternatively, a corner element can be connected to five beams, each set of two beams forming an angle of 90° or 180°. Alternatively, a corner element can be connected to six beams, each set of two beams forming an angle of 90° or 180°.

In a preferred embodiment, the beam cavities are beam-shaped, the openings at either end of the cavities are rectangular, and the connector bodies are beamshaped as well, with a rectangular cross section, equal in size to or smaller than said openings. In an even more preferred embodiment, the openings are squareshaped and the connector body has a square cross section. Preferably, the connector body has a slightly smaller cross section, as to ease the retractable positioning of the connector body into the beam cavity. In a preferred embodiment, the horizontal and vertical beams comprise four side panels, defining the beam-shaped cavity above.

The advantage of employing hollow beams instead of full beams is that these are lighter than solid beams, facilitating the construction process. However, they provide an improved stiffness as compared to compact, solid beams employing the same amount of material per unit of length. In a further preferred embodiment, the vertical beams are hollow or full, solid beams. Another advantage of employing hollow beams, is that the remaining free space in the beam cavity, after having inserted the connector bodies, can be supplied with damping structures and/or masses. The introduction of well-chosen damping structures and/or masses, at well-chosen locations, can improve the dynamic behavior of the structure as a whole. This can be verified by simulations.

In a preferred embodiment, both the ratio of the length of the connector body to the length of the horizontal beam and the ratio of the length of the connector body to the length of the vertical beam are between 1 to 20 and 7 to 20.

In a preferred embodiment, the corner elements and the connector elements are manufactured from a stiff material such as stainless steel or galvanized steel. Due to the high rigidity of the corner elements, the beams and the connector elements, (less or) no diagonal supporting beams between opposing steel cubic elements are needed for the required firmness and rigidity, resulting in an aesthetically more attractive construction. Most of the momentum of a constructed module is concentrated in/close to the corner elements. Therefore, these elements need reinforcement, which is provided by the connector elements, comprising the steel plugs. The current invention provides steel corner elements and connector elements which conserve the perpendicular connection of the bars when the construction is exposed to e.g. wind forces. In a further preferred embodiment, the corner elements comprise additional filler plates mounted on the cubic element faces, allowing for up to 10 mm tolerance during construction. In a preferred embodiment, the filler plates are made from steel.

In a preferred embodiment, the interior of the beams is provided with at least one track and the connector element comprises at least one slider, corresponding to said track and provided externally and at least partially along the length of the connector bodies. Said sliders are preferentially centrally positioned. Preferably, one such a track/slider combination is provided on both of at least two opposite sides. In an even more preferred embodiment, one such track/slider combination is provided on all four sides. Said slider and track enable easy provision of the connector element in the beams. Moreover, the combination of the slider and track provides additional rigidity to the beam. Preferentially, the sliders and tracks are manufactured of materials comprising steel. In a further preferred embodiment, a small space is provided between the slider of the connector element and the track and side panels of the connected beam. Said beam can be manufactured of wood, which can expand or contract due to temperature of humidity fluctuations. Said small space prevents the bursting of the wood (or another material which is sensible for said fluctuations) due to these fluctuations.

In a preferred embodiment, the proximal end portion of each connector element comprises at least one transverse edge, whereby said edge is detachably connected to a corner element using attachment means such as bolts and nuts. Preferably, the proximal end portion of each connector element comprises one or more transverse edges with bore holes, while the cuboid corner elements comprise six facets with one, large central hole and multiple bore holes near their edges, corresponding to the bore holes in the transverse edges of the connector elements. These holes are then used for detachable connection of connector elements and corner elements using bolts and nuts.

In constructed configuration, both ends of the beams can be provided with the connector elements. Therefore, said connector elements can at most have half the length of the beams. However, the FEM simulations and the laboratory strength tests of the inventors demonstrated that the connector elements can be shorter than half the length of the horizontal supporting beams, as most of the momentum is concentrated close to the cubic elements.

In a possible embodiment, a ratio of a length of the connector element that is positioned in the horizontal beam and a length of said horizontal beam is between 1 to 20 and 7 to 20, by preference between 8 to 100 and 5 to 20, whereby said ratios are essential for the power transfer between the beams and the steel cubic elements. The connector elements in the horizontal beams cover the length of the horizontal beams only partially. Internally, a gap is present between connector elements that are provided in both ends of the horizontal beam. Furthermore, the structure acquires sufficient rigidity due to the steel (comprising the steel strips) and second material of the beams. In a possible embodiment, the length of the connector element amounts about 800mm, while the length of the horizontal beam can be e.g. about 3.6m (with a plug-beam length ratio of about 0.22) or about 7.2m (with a plug-beam length ratio of about 0.11). In a possible embodiment, the beams have an external dimension of about 28cm by 28cm, with a thickness between 30mm and 60mm, by preference of about 40mm. In a possible embodiment, the beams comprise a layer of about 40mm of laminated beech, improving the fire safety and the aesthetical aspect of the structure.

In a preferred embodiment, the connector body is secured into the beam cavity using a transverse pin, inserted orthogonally to the beam axis through a set of coaxial holes in both the connector body and two opposite walls of the beam. Preferably, only the horizontal beams have connector elements secured into their beam cavities using transverse pins. In a further preferred embodiment, the horizontal beams are internally at least partially provided with at least one diaphragm panel, which is positioned perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of said beam and connects the side panels of said beam. Said diaphragm panels provide additional firmness and rigidity to the beams. In a further preferred embodiment of the modular building structure, the horizontal beams are provided with one or more tubes, extending perpendicularly between opposite side panels. Said tubes are preferentially provided on the panels which lack the recess and the fixation profile. Therefore, said tubes are positioned horizontally in practice, parallel to the ground surface. Preferentially, said tubes are positioned in the middle/center of the width of the panel. By further preference, said tubes are provided with screw thread and fixation means. Structural elements, such as the roof modules or floor modules, can be attached to the beams by means of the tubes, the steel strip provided in the recess or a combination of both.

In a preferred embodiment, each connector element comprises a longitudinal pin at its distal end, enclosed by a corresponding receptacle attached to the beam in question. This ensures an improved connection between the connector elements and the beams, in turn improving the transfer of the moment of force between connector elements and beams. In a further preferred embodiment, in case of a horizontal beam, said receptacle comprises a galvanized or stainless steel tube segment. In an alternative preferred embodiment, in case of the horizontal and/or vertical beams, one galvanized or stainless steel tube, extending between the longitudinal pins at either end, is used as receptacle for the longitudinal pins. In a most preferred embodiment, the longitudinal pin of each connector element, plugged into the beam cavity of a horizontal beam, is enclosed by a receptacle in the form of a steel tube segment of the same length as the longitudinal pin. In the same embodiment, the longitudinal pin of each connector element, plugged into the beam cavity of a vertical beam, is enclosed by a steel tube segment extending between the longitudinal pins at either end of the vertical beam. Preferably, the corner elements and the connector elements (including the longitudinal pin) are made from steel. The advantage of employing as receptacle a steel tube segment, extending between the longitudinal pins at either end of the vertical beams, is that this provides a second vertical support, next to the vertical support provided by the wooden side panels. In case of fire, the vertical support provided by the steel tube segment, in combination with the wooden side panels, will last longer than the vertical support provided by the wooden panels alone.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one external wall of each beam is provided with a recess along one or more parts of the length of the beam, said recesses holding substantially C-, U- or T-shaped fixation profiles. Preferably, said fixation profiles are manufactured from galvanized or stainless steel. One advantage of incorporating these fixation profiles is that they offer an improved stiffness to the horizontal and vertical beams. By preference, said recesses, holding the fixation profiles, cover the entire length of the beam.

In a preferred embodiment, the modular building structure further comprises floor modules, roof modules and/or window/wall modules, said modules being detachably connected at least to one or more of said fixation profiles. The fixation profiles are therefore suitable for the detachable connection of said modules. The attachment is fairly easy by use of attachment means such as bolts and nuts. This provides easy assembling, disassembling and reassembling, based on the originally provided elements. By preference, no elements are connected by welded seams, which cannot be dismantled easily. Any other typical structural elements comprised by houses can be comprised in additional modules. Said additional modules are attached at least to one or more of said fixation profiles.

In a further preferred embodiment, the recesses provided on the at least two opposite panels are positioned symmetrically. By preference, the recesses are positioned centrally on the panel. Due to said symmetry, the construction of similar modular building structures is more user-friendly and can be performed more efficiently.

In a possible embodiment, the recess itself has a substantially T-shaped, C-shaped or U-shaped cross section, and does not hold an additional fixation profile.

In a possible embodiment, each of the panels of the vertical beams is provided with said recess and said steel strip. As a consequence, modular elements can be attached to each side of the vertical beams by means of fixation means comprised by the steel strip. Furthermore, said vertical beams are reinforced on each side by the fixation profiles. The horizontal beams comprise by preference recesses comprising fixation profiles on two opposite panels, positioned towards the ground surface and the opposing direction. In another embodiment, all side panels of the horizontal beams are provided with said recess and said steel strip.

In a preferred embodiment, the modular building structure further comprises floor elements, wall elements and/or roof elements (or), which are attached to the beams. Said wall elements (comprising glass structures like windows) are attached to the steel strip provided in said recess.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the modular building structure comprises floor elements comprising a specific fiber structure orientation, whereby about 20% of the fibers are positioned in the width direction and about 80% of the fibers are positioned in the length direction of the floor element. Said specific fiber structure orientation contributes to an improved force distribution.

In a preferred embodiment, the frame defines one, interconnected cavity, suitable for guiding utility cables and/or pipelines for provisions in the building. To this end, the connector body defines a cavity with openings at either end, the corner elements define a cavity with central openings at either facet and the optional filler plates have central openings as well, corresponding to the former central opening. The central openings in the facets of the corner elements are preferentially substantially circular or substantially square (preferentially with rounded corners) and comprise by further preference rounded edges. Said central openings in the steel cubic elements are used to provide tubes and pipelines for basic provisions (electricity, water, gas, etc.) in the modular building structure. Said tubes and pipelines can be damaged by sharp edges of the central openings during the installation. Therefore, rounded edges are preferred for the central openings.

In a preferred embodiment, the horizontal and vertical beams are manufactured from galvanized or stainless steel and a second material, comprising wood, laminate, polymer, composite, concrete, veneer and/or a combination thereof. Preferentially the wood comprises beech. In order to provide firmness to the modular building structure, the second material requires sufficient rigidity and stiffness. By further preference, the second material is light-weight and fire retardant.

In a possible embodiment, the second material of the beams comprises laminated wood. Preferentially, the laminate layers are provided with layers parallel to the direction defined by the recesses (in case recesses are provided on two opposite panels). Therefore, the laminate layers are visible in the panels provided with said recess. The laminating process is required to smooth the wood and to provide the wood with a higher rigidity. Preferentially, the wood comprises laminated beech.

In a preferred embodiment, the second material comprises a bending strength between 60 N/mm2 and 400 N/mm2. In a possible embodiment, the second material comprises beech laminated veneer lumber with a bending strength between 60 N/mm2 and 90 N/mm2, by preference about 70 N/mm2. In a preferred embodiment, the steel comprised by the steel strips has a bending strength between 300N/mm2 and 400 N/mm2, preferentially about 355 N/mm2.

In a preferred embodiment, the second material comprises a characteristic density between 550 kg/m3 and 8500 kg/m3. In a further preferred embodiment, said second material comprises beech laminated veneer lumber with a characteristic density between 550 kg/m3 and 850 kg/m3, by preference between 600 kg/m3 and 750 kg/m3, by further preference between 650kg/m3 and 710 kg/m3, by even further preference about 680 kg/m3.

In a preferred embodiment, the second material comprises a modulus of elasticity between 15 N/mm2 and 250N/mm2. In a further preferred embodiment, said second material comprises beech laminated veneer lumber with a characteristic density between 15 N/mm2 and 20N/mm2, by preference between 16 N/mm2 and 18N/mm2, by further preference about 16.8 N/mm2.

In a preferred embodiment, the second material comprises laminated veneer lumber beech with longitudinal layers, which comprises following strength values. The flatwise bending properties comprise a bending f(m,0,k) value between 50 N/mm2 and 70 N/mm2, by preference about 65 N/mm2. The flatwise compression f(c,90,k) amounts between 9 N/mm2 and 11 N/mm2, by preference about 10 N/mm2. The flatwise shear f(v,0,k) amounts between 3 N/mm2 and 10 N/mm2, by preference about 8 N/mm2.

Said laminated veneer lumber beech with longitudinal layers comprises edgewise bending properties of f(m,0,k) between 60 N/mm2 and 80 N/mm2, preferentially about 70 N/mm2. The tension parallel to the grain f(t,0,k) amounts between 40 N/mm2 and 70 N/mm2, preferentially about 60 N/mm2. The tension perpendicular to the grain f(t,90,k) amounts between 0 N/mm2 and 10 N/mm2, preferentially about 1.5 N/mm2. The compression parallel to the grain f(c,0,k) amounts between 30 N/mm2 and 60 N/mm2, preferentially about 41.6 N/mm2. The compression perpendicular to the grain f(c,90,k) amounts between 13 N/mm2 and 15 N/mm2, preferentially about 14 N/mm2. Finally, the edgewise bending shear f(v,0,k) amounts between 6 N/mm2 and 10 N/mm2, by preference about 8 N/mm2.

Said laminated veneer lumber beech with longitudinal layers comprises a modulus of elasticity E(0,mean) between 16.5 N/mm2 and 20 N/mm2, preferentially about 16.8 N/mm2, a modulus of elasticity E(0,05) between 14.5 N/mm2 and 15.7 N/mm2, preferentially about 14.9 N/mm2, a modulus of elasticity E(90, mean) between 400 N/mm2 and 550 N/mm2, preferentially about 470 N/mm2, a sheer modulus edgewise G(mean) between 600 N/mm2 and 900 N/mm2, preferentially about 760 N/mm2, a sheer modulus flatwise G(mean) of about 850 N/mm2 and a density of about 680 kg/m3.

It should be noted that said laminated veneer lumber beech has fire retardant properties. By preference, said laminated beech pertains to the fire behaviour class E (as per EN13501:2007+A1:2009).

It is clear that any other second material with similar properties as described above, can be used as the second material comprised by the beams.

In a preferred embodiment, the frame additionally comprises foundation elements, and the corner elements comprised in the bottom portion of the frame are detachably supported by said foundation elements. Said foundation elements are supported by a ground surface. Therefore, the modular building structure is similar to supporting structures on stilts. Said base elements are provided to increase the stability of the modular building structure.

In a preferred embodiment, the structure is either a one-level or a multi-level structure. In a further preferred embodiment, said structure is a two-level structure. Two-level structures offer more space to the residents or users while at the same time not setting the same requirements to the rigidity of the frame as would be the case for buildings comprising three or more levels.

In a second aspect, the current invention concerns a kit for constructing a modular building structure, comprising a plurality of cuboid corner elements, a plurality of horizontal and vertical beams, and a plurality of attachment means, whereby the beam end portions are detachably connectable to the corner elements by use of said attachment means, in particular: - said connection means comprise connector elements, each connector element comprising an elongated connector body, and - said beams define a cavity with openings at either end, suitable for receiving a connector body, whereby the connector bodies can be retractably positioned into the beam cavities at either end, while the proximal ends of the connector elements can be detachably connected to the corner elements.

In a preferred embodiment, this kit is configured to construct a modular building structure as described above.

The invention is further described by the following non-limiting examples which further illustrate the invention, and are not intended to, nor should they be interpreted to, limit the scope of the invention.

It is supposed that the present invention is not restricted to any form of realization described previously and that some modifications can be added to the presented example of fabrication without reappraisal of the appended claims. For example, the present invention has been described referring to specific lengths of the beams, but it is clear that the invention can be applied to other beam lengths, as long as the rigidity and firmness of the structure has been well modelled.

FIGURES

Figure 1 gives a perspective view on an embodiment of the frame (1) of a modular building structure. The frame comprises horizontal (2) and vertical (3) beams, the end portions of which are detachably attached to cuboid corner elements (4) by use of fixation means. The structure rests on foundation elements (5), in such a way that each cuboid corner element (4) comprised by the bottom portion of the frame (1), is detachably supported by one corresponding foundation element (5). In a possible embodiment, the volume of a modular building structure is the volume defined by one or more superposed and/or juxtaposed cuboid basic volumes, the ribs of which are coinciding with the axes of the horizontal (2) and the vertical (3) beams, and the corner points of which coincide with the centers of the cuboid corner elements (4). In a further embodiment, these basic volumes have a length of about 7.2 m and a width of about 3.6 m

Figure 2 gives an exploded view of an embodiment of a modular building structure, whereby the different components are disassembled, as to illustrate the construction of said building structure. The structure comprises a cuboid frame comprised of horizontal (2) and vertical (3) beams, the end portions of which are detachably attached to cuboid corner elements (4), by use of fixation means. Each cuboid corner element (4) comprised by the bottom portion of the frame (1), is detachably supported by a foundation element (5). In this particular embodiment, said horizontal (2) and vertical (3) beams comprise four side panels with symmetric recesses along the length of the beams. Said recesses are provided with C-, T- or U-shaped fixation profiles (6), glued into the recesses in question. Said fixation profiles (6) are suitable for the connection of floor modules (7), roof modules (8), roof sealing (9) and wall/glass modules (10) to the frame (1). The function of the roof sealing (9) is to provide for a waterproof top connection between two roof modules, or between a roof module (8) and a wall/glass module (10). In general, the wall/glass modules (10) can be adapted to both one-level and multilevel modular structures.

In Figure 3, a side view of an embodiment of a modular building structure is presented, elucidating the interior of said structure. The structure comprises a cuboid frame, comprising horizontal (2) and vertical (3) beams, the end portions of which are detachably attached to cuboid corner elements (4). In this particular embodiment, each horizontal (2) and vertical (3) beam comprises four side panels with symmetric recesses, provided with fixation profiles (6) along their length. The fixation profiles (6) are suitable for the connection of floor modules (7), roof modules (8), roof sealing (9) and wall/glass modules (10). In this particular embodiment, the floor module (7) comprises floor heating elements. The top side of the floor module (7) is covered with flooring panels (11) and the bottom side of the roof module (8) is covered with ceiling panels (12). The structure can also comprise vertical support elements (13). The interior of the floor module (7) and/or roof module (8) comprises utility cables and/or pipelines (14) for provisions in the building. Some of the horizontal (2) and vertical (3) beams therefore comprise side panels with one or more holes, through which said utility cables and/or pipelines (14) enter the interior of the floor module (7) and/ or the roof module (8).

Figure 4 gives a perspective view on an embodiment of a cuboid corner element (4). In general, the cuboid corner element (4) is essentially cubic or cuboid, and defines an essentially cubic or cuboid cavity (15). The cuboid corner element (4) comprises six facets with one or more bore holes (16), preferably near the edge of the facet in question, and one central hole (17). Said bore holes (16) are suitable for detachably attaching the proximal end portion of a connector element (18) to the cuboid corner element (4), by use of attachment means such as bolts. In a preferred embodiment, at least some of the bore holes (16) are provided with internal thread. In a most preferred embodiment, the corner element (4) top and bottom facets each have eight bore holes. Each of said bore holes (16) is thereby provided with internal thread. The central hole (17) can take any form: in the depicted embodiment, the central hole (17) in the upper and lower facet is octagonal, while the central hole in the side facets is circular. However, the central hole (17) should occupy 10% to 90% of the surface of the facet in question. As such, it is suitable for reaching into the internal cavity (15) of the cuboid corner element. For instance, this can be useful for countering a bolt during the installation of the frame (1), or for guiding a utility cable or pipeline (14) during its installation. The facet's inner edge portion, defining its central hole (17), is preferably rounded off. In another embodiment, some of the facets of the cuboid corner element (4) do not have such a central hole (17).

Figure 5 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of a cuboid corner element (4) and the end portion of a horizontal/vertical beam (2/3), elucidating on how these elements are detachably connected to each other, i.e. by use of a connector element (18). The horizontal (2) and vertical (3) beams consist of four side panels (19) , defining an elongated, beam-shaped cavity, with essentially rectangular openings at either end of the beam. The connector body (20) is beam-shaped as well, and essentially has the same rectangular transverse cross-section as the opening cross section at either end of said cavity. As such, the connector body (20) can be retractably inserted into one of the openings at either end of the beam (2/3). Optionally, the connector element (18) comprises one or more sliders (21), while, at the same time, the inner sides of said side panels (19) comprise one or more tracks (22) corresponding to said sliders (21). The connector body (20) itself defines an elongated cavity, with openings at either end. At its distal end, i.e. at the end that is inserted into the horizontal/vertical beam (2/3), the connector element (18) comprises a tubular, longitudinal pin (23), directed along the length of the connector element (18). It provides for an improved connection. As mentioned before, said longitudinal pin (23) is preferably tubular, such that it can guide utility cables and/or pipelines (14). The horizontal beam (2) comprises two opposite side panels with at least two symmetric pairs of transverse bore holes (24) . One pair of said transverse bore holes (24) is situated at either end portion of the beam (2), and such that the connector body (20) can be secured upon retractable insertion into the beam (2). To this end, the connector body (20) itself has two opposite sides with at least one symmetric pair of transverse bore holes (25) , corresponding to the previously mentioned pair of transverse bore holes (24) in the beam panels (19). Both aforementioned pairs of transverse bore holes (24 and 25) are such that the connector body (20), once inserted into the horizontal beam (2), can be secured by inserting a transverse pin (26), along the transverse direction and through both pairs of transverse bore holes (24 and 25). Preferably, the transverse pin (26) employed is a tubular pin with internal thread. At least one of these pins (26) is inserted at either side of the horizontal/vertical (2/3) beam, for the sake of securing the connector elements (18). However, in case of the horizontal beams (2), more transverse pins (26) are inserted into additional, symmetrical pairs of transverse holes (24), along the entire length of the beam. Each one of these transverse pins (26) with internal thread can host attachment means such as bolts, for instance for partial or complete attachment of the floor modules (7) and the roof modules (8). The horizontal (2) and vertical (3) beams comprise at least one side with a longitudinally oriented recess, covering either the complete length of the beam in question or only a part of it. A T-shaped, U-shaped or C-shaped fixation profile (6) can be fixed into said recess, preferably using glue. Said fixation profile (6) can then be used, for instance, for the attachment of floor modules (7), roof modules (8), roof sealing (9) and/or glass or wall modules (10). In a preferred embodiment, the fixation profile (6) is not used for the attachment of floor modules (7) and roof modules (8). The proximal end of the connector elements (18) can be detachably attached to the cuboid corner elements (4). To this end, the proximal end portion of the connector element comprises one or more transverse plates (28) with longitudinally oriented bore holes (31). Said bore holes correspond with the bore holes in one of the facets of the cuboid corner element (4) in question. As such, the connector element (18) can be detachably attached to the cuboid corner element (4), for instance by use of one or more bolts (32). Optionally, a filler plate (33) of suitable thickness can be inserted, as a correction for installation tolerances. In one embodiment, this filler plate (33) is manufactured from steel. Optionally, the horizontal/vertical beams (2/3) comprise one or more steel elements with longitudinally oriented bore holes, at the end portions of the beam (2/3) in question. Said bore holes are provided with internal thread, and correspond to one or more bore holes (31) in the transverse plates (28) at the proximal end portions of the connector elements (18). Preferably, each of said steel elements is connected to an end portion of a steel fixation profile. As such, the connector element (18) can be more thoroughly fixed into the beam (2/3) cavity by use of, for instance, one or more Allen bolts (27), screwed into each of said pairs of corresponding holes. This way, any movement or vibration of the connector element (18) with respect to the beam (2/3) in question is further hindered. Preferably, the end portion of each beam (2/3), is provided with one or more longitudinally oriented dowel holes (30). A transverse plate (28) with corresponding bore holes is provided at the proximal end of the connector elements (18). First, the said dowel holes (30) are filled with glue. Dowels (29) can now be inserted into each pair of corresponding bore/dowel holes (30), upon retractable insertion of the connector body (20) into the beam cavity. This way, said connector element (18) can be attached more thoroughly to the beam (2/3) in question.

Figure 6 gives a cross section of an embodiment of a horizontal beam (2) and a vertical beam (3), both of which are connected to a cuboid corner element (4) by means of a connector element (18). In the interior of the two beams, transverse diaphragm panels (34) with openings are provided. Said openings are adapted to allow for the passage of utility cables and/or pipelines (14) for provisions in the building. The horizontal connector element (18) is retractably inserted into the horizontal beam (2), and secured by means of a transverse pin (26) with internal thread. More transverse pins (26) of this kind are inserted into transverse bore holes (26) along the length of the horizontal beam (2), for reasons of improved strength of the resulting modular building structure. Each one of these transverse pins (26) with internal thread can host attachment means such as bolts, for instance for partial or complete attachment of the floor modules (7) and the roof modules (8). Either end of the horizontal/vertical beams (2/3) comprises a diaphragm panel (34) located and adapted such that it can hold the longitudinal pin (23) of a connector element (18) inserted. Preferably, the opening of latter diaphragm panels (34) is reinforced using a tube segment (35), for instance using a steel tube segment. Regarding the vertical beams (3), said tube segments (35) stretch out between the longitudinal tubes (23) of the connector elements (18) inserted at either side of the vertical beam (3) in question. A frame (1) with cuboid corner elements (4), connector elements (18) and tube segments (35) manufactured entirely from steel will last longer in case of fire. In a preferred embodiment, only the vertical beams (3) have steel tube segments (35) extending between both longitudinal pins (23) at either side of the beam (3).

An overview of the numbering used in the figures: 1. Frame 2. Horizontal beam 3. Vertical beam 4. Cuboid corner element 5. Foundation element 6. Fixation profile 7. Floor module 8. Roof module 9. Roof sealing 10. Window/wall module 11. Flooring panel 12. Ceiling panel 13. Vertical support element 14. Utility cables and/or pipelines 15. Corner element cavity 16. Bore hole 17. Central hole 18. Connector element 19. Beam side panels 20. Connector body 21. Slider 22. Track 23. Longitudinal pin 24. Beam transverse bore hole 25. Connector transverse bore hole 26. Transverse pin 27. Allen bolt 28. Transverse plate 29. Dowel 30. Dowel hole 31. Connector longitudinal bore hole 32. Bolts 33. Filler plate 34. Diaphragm panel 35. Tube segment

Claims

A modular building structure comprising a frame 1 comprising horizontal beams 2, vertical beams 3 and beam-shaped corner elements 4, wherein the end parts of the beams are releasably connected to the corner elements by means of connecting means, characterized in that - said connecting means comprise connector elements 18, each connector element 18 herein comprising an elongated connector body 20 and said beams 2/3 defining a cavity, with openings at both ends and suitable for receiving the connector body 20, the connector body 20 being positioned in the cavity of the beam 2/3 on at least one end of the beam 2/3, while the proximal end of the connector elements 18 is releasably connected to the corner elements 4.

The modular building structure according to claim 1, characterized in that the beam cavities are beam-shaped, the openings at both ends of the cavities are rectangular and that the connector bodies 20 are also beam-shaped, with a rectangular cross-section, equal in size to or smaller than the openings mentioned.

The modular building structure according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the beams 2/3 are internally provided with at least one track 22 and that the connector elements comprise at least one glider 21, provided on the outside and along at least a part of the length of the connector bodies 20, said sliders 21 corresponding to said tracks 22.

The modular building structure according to any of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the openings are square, the connector bodies 20 have a square cross-section and that the corner elements 4 are cubic.

The modular building structure according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that both the ratio of the length of the connector body 20 to the length of the horizontal beam 2 and the ratio of the length of the connector body 20 until the length of the vertical beam 3 is between 1 in 20 and 7 in 20.

The modular building structure according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the case of the horizontal 2 and / or vertical 3 beams, the connector body 20 is secured in the beam cavity by means of a transverse pin 26, inserted perpendicular to the axis of the beam 2/3 through a set of coaxial holes in both the connector body 20 and two opposite walls of the beam 2/3.

The modular building structure according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that each connector element 18 comprises at its proximal end a transverse edge 28, which is detachably connected to a corner element 4.

The modular building structure according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that each connector element 18 comprises a longitudinal pin 23 at its distal end enclosed by a corresponding holder 35 fixedly connected to the beam 2/3 in question.

The modular building structure according to claim 7, characterized in that, in the case of the horizontal beam 2, said holder 35 comprises a piece of tube of galvanized steel or stainless steel.

The modular building structure according to any of the preceding claims 7 and 8, characterized in that, in the case of the horizontal and / or vertical beams 2/3, a tube of galvanized steel or stainless steel extends between the longitudinal pins optionally present at both ends of the beam 2/3 is used as said holder 35 for the longitudinal pins 23.

The modular building structure according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one wall of each beam 2/3 is provided on the outside with a recess along one or more parts of the length of the beam 2/3 and wherein said recesses each enclose an essentially C, U or T-shaped fixation profile 6.

The modular building structure according to claim 10, characterized in that said fixation profiles 6 are made from galvanized steel or stainless steel.

The modular building structure according to any of claims 10 and 11, characterized in that the modular building structure furthermore comprises floor modules 7, roof modules 8 and / or window / wall modules 10, said modules being releasably connected to at least one or several of said fixation profiles 6.

The modular building structure according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the frame 1 defines one coherent cavity suitable for guiding utility cables and conduits 14 for provisions in the building structure.

The modular building structure according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connector elements 18 and the corner elements 4 are at least partially made of a metal.

The modular building structure according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connector elements 18 and the corner elements 4 are made of galvanized steel or stainless steel.

The modular building structure according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the horizontal 2 and vertical 3 beams are made of galvanized steel or stainless steel and a second material comprising wood, laminate, polymer, composite, concrete, veneer and / or a combination thereof.

The modular building structure according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the frame 1 furthermore comprises foundation elements 5, and in that the corner elements 4 which are included in the lower part of the frame 1 are releasably supported by said foundation elements 5.

The modular building structure according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structure has one or more floors.

20. A kit for building a modular building structure, comprising a plurality of beam-shaped corner elements 4, a plurality of horizontal 2 and vertical 3 beams and a plurality of connecting means, wherein the end parts of the beams can be releasably connected to the corner elements 4 by said connecting means, characterized in that: said connecting means comprise connector elements 18, each connector element 18 comprising an elongated connector body 20 and said beams 2/3 define a cavity, with openings at both ends, suitable for receiving a connector body 20, wherein the connector bodies 20 can be slidably positioned in the beam cavities at both ends, while the proximal end of the connector elements 18 can be releasably connected to the corner elements 4.

The kit for building a modular building structure according to claim 19, characterized in that said kit is configured for building a modular building structure according to any of claims 1 to 18