NO346490B1

NO346490B1 - Means for attenuating horizontal and vertical waves in stacked modules

Info

Publication number: NO346490B1
Application number: NO20201293A
Authority: NO
Inventors: Arne Vaslag
Original assignee: Orient Holding As
Priority date: 2020-11-25
Filing date: 2020-11-25
Publication date: 2022-09-05
Also published as: NO20201293A1

Description

Means for attenuating horizontal and vertical waves in stacked modules

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a modular building complex comprising building modules, and in particular it addresses issues relating to noise transfer between building modules by providing a coupling element adapted to attenuate horizontal oscillations and vertical oscillations propagating between modules.

Background Art

[0002] There is a need to be able to build residential buildings in an efficient manner which meets standards for residential buildings. Moreover, it is a need to be able to raise residential buildings that are easily scalable when it comes to size.

[0003] Shipping container buildings and other modular buildings is well known, this is not a surprise as millions of “out of service containers” are globally available. Construction of modular container buildings are traditionally an easy task as they are designed to be stacked and interlocked together. Insulation of shipping containers are one of several problems that has to be solved for modular container building complexes. Containers makes noise when exposed to wind, also vibrations from noise propagates easily between container modules in a modular container building.

[0004] Modular buildings are ubiquitous an example is shown in the patent publication WO2019227174 A1. The patent publication discloses modules includes a structural framework of columns and beams, and infill panels made from light weight building material located between the columns and beams for forming the walls, floor, and ceiling of the room. The lightweight building material is preferably autoclaved aerated concrete. As these modules in contrast with shipping containers are made of different materials including concrete the problem of propagating noise between modules is not relevant in the same manner as it is for shipping containers.

[0005] The patent publication GB2476102 A discloses a modular construction system comprising containers. The containers are interlocked using traditional twist locks. The twist locks prohibit use of noise cancelling materials and noise cancelling constructions.

[0006] The patent publication GB2423315B discloses a modular container building, where connector elements are used for interlocking containers. Noise cancelation is however provided as traditional insulation material in walls, floors and ceilings, this insulation will not kill vibration propagating between containers.

[0007] Other examples of related technique can be found in the patent publications US3752511A, NO340745B1 and NO20180399.

Disclosure of Invention

[0008] It is one object of the invention to provide a technical solution to the problem above by providing a layered energy absorbing coupling element adapted to mechanically coupling a building framework to corner fittings on container modules, and to attenuate horizontal oscillations and vertical oscillations propagating between the framework and the container modules where the energy absorbing coupling element at least comprises:

a. a supporting face, where the supporting face is provided with a first protruding locking and oscillation attenuating pin, male element, protruding substantially upwards or downwards and being mechanically complimentary with a bottom corner fittings or top corner fittings, female element, of a container, where the first locking and oscillation attenuating pin is adapted to:

i. to lock the bottom corner fittings of a container or top corner fittings of a container to the energy absorbing coupling element, in a male female configuration, and

ii. to attenuate horizontal oscillation waves propagating from the bottom corner fittings of a container or top corner fittings of a container to the first locking and oscillation attenuating pin, or to attenuate horizontal oscillation waves propagating from the supporting face of an energy absorbing coupling element to a bottom corner fitting of a container or top corner fitting of a container,

b. a first oscillation attenuating layer, where the first oscillation attenuating layer is conform in shape with the supporting face and is adapted to be arranged in a sandwich configuration with the supporting face, the first oscillation attenuating layer is provided with a hole so that the first vibration attenuating layer can be threaded over the first locking and oscillation attenuating pin and where the first attenuating layer is adapted to:

i. attenuate vertical oscillations propagating from a bottom corner fitting of a container or top corner fitting of a container to the supporting face, and/or

to attenuate vertical oscillation propagating from the supporting face of an energy absorbing coupling element to a bottom corner fitting of a container or top corner fitting of a container, thereby providing horizontal and vertical attenuation of oscillations between framework and containers.

[0009] The supporting face of the layered energy absorbing coupling element can be provided with vertical side walls extending from two adjacent side edges of the supporting face so that the side walls mutually form an angle of 80 - 100 degrees, where the vertical side walls may project vertically upwards from the supporting face.

[0010] The first oscillation attenuating layer can be arranged on top of the supporting face and the first protruding locking and oscillation attenuating pin is protruding substantially upwards.

[0011] The layered energy absorbing coupling element may further comprise a second oscillation attenuating layer, where the second oscillation attenuating layer is conform in shape with the supporting face and is adapted to be arranged as a bottom layer of a sandwich configuration with the supporting face and the first oscillation attenuating layer and where the second oscillation attenuating layer is provided with a hole so that the second oscillation attenuating layer can be threaded over a second locking and oscillation attenuating pin protruding substantially downwards.

[0012] The sidewalls mentioned above may include:

c. a first sidewall parallel with an X-direction with a width in x-direction equalling d and a height in Z-direction equalling of e

d. a second sidewall parallel with an Y-direction with a width in Y-direction equalling c and a height in Z-direction equalling e, and

e. a third sidewall parallel with an Y-direction

where the first, second and third sidewalls extends vertically upwards from the support face and where the support face, the sidewalls, the first protruding locking and oscillation attenuating pin and the first oscillation attenuating layer together forms a first crib. In one aspect of the invention the layered energy absorbing coupling element may further comprise a second crib arranged symmetrically about an y-axis with respect to the first crib on the same vertical level with the first crib and with a distance between the first and second crib in the X-direction.

[0013] The first and second protruding locking and oscillation attenuating pin can be integrated with the supporting face and can be made of the same material as the supporting face.

[0014] In one aspect of the invention the first and second protruding locking and oscillation attenuating pin can have a minimum width being substantially smaller that quarter wavelength of horizontal oscillating waves.

[0015] In one aspect of the invention the first and second vibration attenuating layer is adapted to a static range of use from 0.075 N/mm<2 to 12 N/mm2 >transferred between a bottom corner fittings and a top corner fittings and have a thickness of 12, 5 to 25 mm.

[0016] In one aspect the first and second oscillating attenuating layer is at least partly made of an elastomer.

[0017] It is also provided a framework metal element for a modular container building that may comprise:

a. a vertical column;

b. a bolt hole at the lower end of the vertical column;

c. a layered energy absorbing coupling element with a bolt hole close to the upper extreme end of the layered energy absorbing element, the bolt hole being adapted for connection to a bolt hole at a lower end of another vertical column for a modular container building using a bolt.

[0018] In one aspect the framework metal element further comprises a beam for support of a horizontal floor of a gallery arranged normally to an upper end of the vertical column.

[0019] In one aspect the framework metal element may further comprise a fixing point at its upper end for wall bracing where the fixing point comprises a bolt hole.

[0020] It is also provided a fixing point for wall bracing adapted to a modular building where the fastening points are both fixed to building modules on the corners of the building and where the fastening points are also provided as one or more sliding rails which are horizontally movable in one direction and where the sliding rail or sliding rails are provided with a fastening eye usable as a fixing point.

[0021] Other advantageous features will be apparent from the accompanying claims.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0022] Following is a brief description of the drawings in order to make the invention more readily understandable, the discussion that follows will refer to the accompanying drawings, in which

[0023] Fig 1a shows a double ended twist lock for interconnecting containers or for connecting containers to other structures vertically, horizontal twist locks are used to connect containers together horizontally not shown,

[0024] Fig 1b shows connecting steps for interconnection of two corner fittings, also shown is one corner fitting of a container connected with ground, i.e., a base pole for the container, the connection element is a single ended twist lock i.e., dovetail twist lock,

[0025] Fig 2a shows a prior art example of a framework of a container,

[0026] Fig 2b shows wall and floor elements of a prior art container,

[0027] Fig 3 shows an example of a corner fitting/corner casting of a container, a container at least includes eight corner fittings/corner castings,

[0028] Fig 4a shows a modular building complex according to one embodiment of the present invention,

[0029] Fig 4b shows a cross section of the modular building complex according to fig 4a in a horizontal plane z3 or z4,

[0030] Fig 4c shows a cross section of the modular building complex according to fig 4a in a horizontal plane z5,

[0031] Fig 4d shows a view of an end wall of the modular building complex according to fig 4a, the figure indicates vertical levels Z1 to Z6,

[0032] Fig 4e shows a view of a side wall of the modular building complex according to fig 4a along grid A, which is parallel with an X-axis the figure indicates vertical levels Z1 to Z6,

[0033] Fig 5a shows a detail of a modular building complex according to fig. 4a at the intersection of grid D, grid 1 and level Z5 and close to this intersection,

[0034] Fig 5b shows a detail of a modular building complex according to fig. 4a at the intersection of grid B, grid 1 and level Z5 and close to this intersection,

[0035] Fig 5c shows a detail of a modular building complex according to fig. 4a at the intersection of grid A, grid 1 and level Z2 and close to this intersection, the figure includes an oscillation attenuating coupling element,

[0036] Fig 5d shows a detail of a modular building complex according to fig. 4a at the intersection of grid A, grid 3 and level Z2 and close to this intersection, the figure includes an oscillation attenuating coupling element,

[0037] Fig 6 shows a framework, in this configuration made for 27 modules of a modular building complex according to fig. 3a,

[0038] Fig 7a shows a layered energy absorbing coupling element, forming bottom member of framework the layered energy absorbing coupling element can be fixed to foundation. The shown layered energy absorbing coupling element is positioned at the intersection of: level Z2, grid A1 a similar element is positioned at Z2, grid D10.

[0039] Fig 7b shows the layered energy absorbing coupling element of figure 7a from another angle.

[0040] Fig 8a shows a layered energy absorbing coupling element, forming bottom member of framework the layered energy absorbing coupling element can be fixed to foundation. The shown layered energy absorbing coupling element is positioned at the intersection of: level Z2, grid A2–9. Similar elements can be found at Z2, grid D2 – 9.

[0041] Fig 8b shows the layered energy absorbing coupling element of figure 8a seen from another angle.

[0042] Fig 8c shows the layered energy absorbing coupling element of figure 8a and figure 8b seen from another angle.

[0043] Fig 9a shows a layered energy absorbing coupling element integrated with a vertical column. The layered energy absorbing coupling element includes two cribs for support of two bottom corner fittings/corner castings and two protruding horizontal wave attenuating elements protruding vertically down wards from a support face, a pin, for support of upper corner fittings/castings.

[0044] Fig 9b shows the layered energy absorbing coupling element of 9a in detail without the vertical column. The layered energy absorbing coupling element is shown positioned at the intersection of level Z3 to Zmax-1, grid A2 –9.

Similar elements can be found at the intersection of Z3 to Zmax-1, grid D, grid 2 – grid 9.

[0045] Fig 9c shows the layered energy absorbing coupling element of 9b from a different angle along the D grid.

[0046] Fig 9d shows the layered energy absorbing coupling element of 9a from a different angle and it includes a vertical column and a horizontal beam for support of a floor of a gallery.

[0047] Fig 10a shows a layered energy absorbing coupling element for a corner of the modular building complex. The layered energy absorbing coupling element includes one crib for support of one bottom corner fitting/corner casting, to prevent the modules from moving in the horizontal plane after assembly, and one protruding horizontal wave attenuating element protruding vertically downwards from a support face of the layered energy absorbing coupling element for support of upper corner fitting/casting. The shown layered energy absorbing coupling element is positioned at the intersection of: level Z3 to Zmax-1, grid A1. A similar element is positioned at the intersection of Z3 to Zmax-1, grid D10.

[0048] Fig 10b shows the layered energy absorbing coupling element of 10a from a different angle.

[0049] Fig 10c shows the layered energy absorbing coupling element of 10a and 10b from a different angle integrated with a vertical column and a horizontal beam for support of a floor of a gallery.

[0050] Fig 11 shows a layered energy absorbing coupling element for a corner of the modular building complex. The layered energy absorbing coupling element includes one crib for support of one bottom corner fitting/corner casting and one protruding horizontal wave attenuating element protruding vertically downwards from a support face of the layered energy absorbing coupling element for support of upper corner fitting/casting. The shown layered energy absorbing coupling element is positioned at the intersection of: level Z3 to next highest Z-level for upper corner fittings/castings of modules and grid D1. Similar element is positioned at the intersection of Z3 to next highest Z-level for upper corner fittings/castings of modules and grid A10.

[0051] Fig 12 shows a layered energy absorbing coupling element for a corner of the modular building complex for the highest Z-level available for corner fittings /castings. The layered energy absorbing coupling element includes one protruding horizontal wave attenuating element protruding vertically downwards from a support face of the layered energy absorbing coupling element for support of upper corner fitting/casting. The shown layered energy absorbing coupling element is positioned at the intersection of grid D1. A similar element is positioned at A10.

[0052] Fig 13a shows a layered energy absorbing coupling element for a corner of the modular building complex for the highest Z-level available for corner fittings/castings. The layered energy absorbing coupling element includes one protruding horizontal wave attenuating element protruding vertically downwards from a support face of the layered energy absorbing coupling element for support of upper corner fitting/casting. The shown layered energy absorbing coupling element is positioned at the intersection of grid A1. A similar element is positioned at grid D10.

[0053] Fig 13b shows the layered energy absorbing coupling element of 13a from a different angle.

[0054] Fig 14 shows a layered energy absorbing coupling element of the modular building complex for the highest Z-level available for corner fittings/castings. The layered energy absorbing coupling element includes two protruding horizontal wave attenuating elements protruding vertically downwards from two different support faces of the layered energy absorbing coupling element for support of upper corner fittings/castings. The shown layered energy absorbing coupling element is positioned at the intersection of grid A2 – 9. A similar element is positioned at grid D2 – 9.

[0055] Fig 15a shows a layered energy absorbing coupling element, forming bottom member of framework. The layered energy absorbing coupling element can be fixed to foundation. The layered energy absorbing coupling element includes one protruding horizontal wave attenuating element protruding vertically upwards from one support face of the layered energy absorbing coupling element for support of lower corner fittings/castings. The shown layered energy absorbing coupling element is positioned at the intersection of level Z2, grid A10. A similar element is positioned at Z2, Grid D1.

[0056] Fig 15b shows the layered energy absorbing coupling element of 15a from a different angle.

[0057] Fig 16 shows a framework metal element including a vertical column and a layered energy absorbing coupling element of the type shown in figure 12 at the upper end of the vertical column the framework metal element further comprises a horizontal beam for support of a floor of a gallery.

[0058] Fig 17 shows a framework metal element including a vertical column and a layered energy absorbing coupling element of the type shown in figure 14 at the upper end of the vertical column, the framework metal element further comprises a horizontal beam for support of a floor of a gallery, and a vertical bar upwards from the layered energy absorbing coupling element.

[0059] Fig 18 shows a framework metal element including a vertical column and a layered energy absorbing coupling element of the type shown in figure 10a, 10b and 10c at the upper end of the vertical column, the framework metal element further comprises a horizontal beam for support of a floor of a gallery, and a second layered energy absorbing coupling element at the lower end of the vertical column of the type shown in figure 15a and 15b.

[0060] Fig 19a shows an optional bar which is movable in an Y-direction, with a fixing point for anchoring, bracing etc. The figure also shows parts of a framework metal element for a modular container building comprising a vertical column and a layered energy absorbing coupling element.

[0061] Fig 19b is similar to fig 19a seen from a different angle.

[0062] Fig. 20 shows the optional bar with a fixing point, the bar is movable in an Y-direction.

[0063] Fig 21 shows details of fixing points for wall bracing.

[0064] Fig 22 shows details of fixing points for wall bracing.

[0065] Fig 23a shows a modular building complex according to one embodiment of the present invention different from that of figure 3a, the horizontal beams for support of gallery are included only on grid 1, 3, 5, 6, 8 and 10. The building complex includes a stairwell.

[0066] Fig 23b shows the modular building complex of figure 23a seen from a different angle.

[0067] Fig 23c shows the modular building complex of figure 23a seen from a different angle than fig. 23a and fig 23b.

[0068] Fig 24 shows detail of the modular building complex of fig 23a – 23c including modules and a layered energy absorbing coupling elements for connecting four neighbouring containers, two on each horizontal level. A layered energy absorbing coupling element for top roof connection is also shown, note that vertical columns and horizontal beams are not present in this embodiment.

[0069] Fig 25a shows a framework, in this configuration made for 27 modules of a modular building complex according to fig. 23a.

[0070] Fig 25b shows the modular building complex of figure 25a seen from a different angle.

[0071] Fig 25c shows the modular building complex of figure 25a seen from a different angle than fig. 25a and fig 25b.

[0072] Fig 25d shows the modular building complex of figure 25a seen from a different angle than fig. 25a, Fig 25b and fig 25c.

[0073] Fig 25e shows details of the modular building complex of figure 25a – 25d including a layered energy absorbing coupling elements for connecting two neighbouring containers upper corner fittings, a layered energy absorbing coupling element for connecting four neighbouring containers, two on each horizontal level, and height adjustable layered energy absorbing coupling elements for connection to foundation 2402.

[0074] Fig 26a shows a layered energy absorbing coupling element for connecting two neighbouring containers upper corner fittings, typically on top floor.

[0075] Fig 26b shows the layered energy absorbing coupling element of fig 26a seen from a different angle.

[0076] Fig 27 shows a layered energy absorbing coupling element for connecting four neighbouring containers, two on each horizontal level,

[0077] Fig 28 shows a height adjustable base connected to foundation the base is a layered energy absorbing coupling element for connecting two neighbouring containers, and

[0078] Fig 29 shows a layered energy absorbing coupling element integrated with a vertical column similar to that of figure 9, except that it includes an additional pressure distribution plate between corner fittings and vertical wave attenuator, the same configuration of distribution plates can be included in all layered energy absorbing coupling elements shown in figures 7a – 15b, 24, 25a, 25e and 26a – 28.

Mode(s) for Carrying Out the Invention

[0079] In the following it is firstly disclosed general embodiments in accordance with the present invention, thereafter particular exemplary embodiments will be described. Where possible reference will be made to the accompanying drawings and where possible using reference numerals in the drawings. It shall be noted however that the drawings are exemplary embodiments only and other features and embodiments may well be within the scope of the invention as described.

[0080] The present invention deals with elements of modular building complexes which includes metal framework and modules, where at least some of the modules are made of metal. In such a building complex, standing waves will propagate in the metal constructions so that the modules will be unsuitable as dwellings or living spaces for humans if the standing waves cannot be damped.

[0081] In order to better understand the invention, it is necessary to describe the modular building in more detail. Figure 4a shows a modular building complex comprising 27 container modules 110 distributed over three floors. To be able to identify the location of elements in the modular building complex, the figure is divided into grids 1 - 10 which are parallel to an Y-axis and a grid A -D which is parallel to an X-axis. Furthermore, Figures 4d and 4e shows the same building as Figure 4a divided into height levels Z1 - Z6 where Z6 represents the highest vertical level.

[0082] With reference to Figures 4a - 4e, it appears that the container modules are not directly interconnected with twist locks as seen in the prior art, rather the container modules are in engagement with a framework. Figure 6 shows the framework without container modules, grid division is also shown here. The framework is composed of foundations 101, 102 which are anchored to the ground. Foundation 101 overlaps grid A while foundation 102 overlaps grid D. Base connection elements 423, 527, 624 are anchored to the foundation and a base connection element is arranged at each intersection with the grids 1 -10 along the A-grid and correspondingly along the D-grid so that a total of 20 base connection elements are present. The corner base connection elements 423, 624 differ from the other base connection elements, see Figs. 6, 7a - 8c, 15a and 15b. The base connection elements carry the weight transferred from the modules.

[0083] Each base connection element is provided with a means for coupling to a vertical column. The vertical columns may be provided with horizontal beams which can support a floor of a gallery. At its upper end, the vertical columns can be provided with a means for connecting to another vertical column so that one can build several floors. The vertical columns may comprise means for acoustically decoupling container modules 110 from the framework and from neighbouring modules. Non-limiting examples of acoustically decoupling means for container modules are shown in Figures 7a - 15b and examples of vertical columns are found in Figures 16 - 18. The framework consists essentially of upright columns with horizontal beams and with means for acoustical decoupling and means for horizontal fixation of modules as the container modules are self-supporting and thus can ensure horizontal rigidity and vertical rigidity. The container modules carry any vertical load exerted from container modules vertically above. The vertical column’s main function is to provide support for a floor gallery. For protection against external influences/forces from the outside, the modular building can be provided with wire girders or fixed metal girders. The vertical corner columns and/or the supporting means for container modules may be provided with eyes for connection with wire girders or fixed metal girders. For access to the modular building complex, one or more stairwells can be added, as an embodiment shown in Figures 23a - 25d shows.

[0084] As indicated above the modular building complex is mainly a metal construction thus vibrations will propagate within building structures which are acoustically coupled (unless acoustically decoupled), hence one problem to be solved is how to decouple acoustically and at the same time couple/connect mechanically?

[0085] The metal framework must be mechanically securely coupled to the modules and at the same time the modules must be acoustically decoupled from the same framework, these are conflicting requirements as the mechanical coupling between modules and framework will transmit oscillations between the framework and modules and thus cause the oscillations to propagate in the building complex, acoustic decoupling will in turn make mechanical connection between modules and framework difficult.

[0086] Modules such as metal containers are normally interconnected using twist locks, see fig 1a and Fig 1b. Twist locks are not suited to attenuate standing waves and at least not vertical standing waves.

[0087] The idea of the present invention is to provide a mechanical coupling between modules of a building complex and at the same time decouple framework from modules acoustically in vertical and horizontal direction and also to decuple modules acoustically from each other.

[0088] The standing waves have a horizontal component, x, y-plane and a vertical component.

[0089] The solution according to the present invention is to provide a vertical pin – a male – which is adapted to interact with openings – female – in corner fittings. The pin 702 protrudes from a horizontal plane 1004 in an upward vertical direction for connection with bottom corner fittings 10c, 10d and downward 1002 for interaction with top corner fittings 10a, 10b. The pin 702, 1002 has a mainly conic design where the top of the cone has a relatively small surface relative to wavelength of audible waves. Figs 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 8c among others shows that the surface of the conical pin is substantially restricted in that the pin is formed as a cross with sides extending in the Y-direction and the X-direction. The effective surface becomes significantly smaller than the area of the opening K in a corner fitting. Bearing in mind that the speed of sound in iron is between 4000 – 5000 m/s and that the audible range for sound extends from about 20hz to 20,000hz, furthermore it is undesirable for ultrasound to propagate in the building complex, so it will be reasonable to consider a range between 5Hz and about 20,000 Hz. With this range in mind the wavelengths will be between 1,000 m (lowest frequency highest wave velocity) and 20 cm for the highest frequency and the lowest wave velocity.

[0090] The vertical pin will effectively attenuate horizontal waves as the area in the XY-plane is very restricted compared with the relevant wavelengths indicated above.

[0091] Vertical waves may propagate between the pin 702, 1002 and the engaged module unless a vertical wave attenuator is introduced. And at least vertical waves will propagate between a support face 1004 which is acoustically and mechanically connected with a corner fitting of a module. Adding a vertical wave attenuator such as vibration damping material between corner fitting and support face 1004 will reduce propagation of vertical waves within a modular building complex. Figs 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 8c among others shows the vertical wave attenuator as a layer 421.

[0092] The pin and the vertical wave attenuator will together effectively attenuate standing waves in horizontal and vertical direction. Given that each of the eight corners of a module 110 is in engagement with a vertical pin 702, 1002 and that four bottom corner rests on supporting face 1004 this will mechanically connect the module to the framework in a modular building complex.

[0093] To simplify construction of the modular building complex and further strengthen the mechanical coupling between modules and framework the supporting face 1004 can be provided with sidewalls 1005, 1006, thereby providing a crib, see figure 9a. In one embodiment such cribs are introduced for connection with bottom corner fittings for modules above ground level.

[0094] In the context of the present invention the structure for mechanical coupling and acoustically decoupling modules 110 from framework is referred to as a layered energy absorbing coupling element. The energy absorbing coupling element may at least comprise:

a. The supporting face 1004. The supporting face 1004 is provided with a first protruding locking and oscillation attenuating pin 702, 1002, (the previously described pin) protruding substantially upwards or downwards from the supporting face. The first protruding pin is mechanically complimentary with a bottom corner casting/fitting or top corner fittings/casting of a module 110. The pin serves as a “male” and an opening in the corner fittings/castings serves as a “female” in a male female configuration.

b. a first oscillation attenuating layer 421, previously described in general terms as a layer 421. The first oscillation attenuating layer 421 is conform in shape with the supporting face 1004 and is adapted to be arranged in a sandwich configuration with the supporting face. The first oscillation attenuating layer is provided with a hole so that the first vibration attenuating layer can be threaded over the first locking and oscillation attenuating pin 702, 1002.

First embodiment

[0095] A first embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in figures 4 – 6. The first embodiment includes vertical columns 422 arranged between all neighbouring modules 110 on the same Z-level of the modular building complex. The vertical columns 422 includes layered energy absorbing coupling element at its top end. The layered energy absorbing coupling element can be integrated with the vertical columns 422 or they can be retrofitted by welding or screwed too the vertical column. Regardless of whether the layered energy absorbing coupling elements are integrated or not, they will be described separately as they are central to solving the postulated problem of mechanical coupling and acoustic decoupling.

[0096] The modular building complex shown in figure 4 – 6 includes several configurations of layered energy absorbing coupling elements, depending on where in the modular building complex they are positioned.

The layered energy absorbing coupling elements

[0097] Bottom element: Figures 7a – 15 shows different layered energy absorbing coupling elements. The layered energy absorbing coupling elements 423, 527, 624 at the bottom of the modular building complex may differ from the rest of the layered energy absorbing coupling elements in that they can be height adjustable thereby render it possible to height adjust supports for the building modules 110. This will ensure horizontal levelling of modules on the same floor. Also, the layered energy absorbing coupling elements at the bottom can include means 424 for connection with a foundation 101, 102. The means can be bolt holes, but it is also possible to weld the layered energy absorbing coupling elements 423, 527, 624 to the foundation 101, 102.

[0098] Also, the bottom layered energy absorbing coupling elements differs in that they are designed to receive bottom corner fittings 10c, 10d only, and in that they are configured to carry the weight of all bottom corner fitting vertically directly above. There are three types of layered energy absorbing coupling elements configured to be at the bottom of the modular building complex. Corners diagonally arranged shares the same layered energy absorbing coupling elements 423, 624, whilst the layered energy absorbing coupling elements 527 between corners in the x-direction are of the same type. The corner layered energy absorbing coupling element only need to support one corner fitting, thus the support face 1004 of these layered energy absorbing coupling elements includes one horizontal wave attenuating element 702 protruding vertically upwards from the support face 1004, see figure 7a, 7b and 15. The layered energy absorbing coupling element of the corner type also only includes one vertical wave attenuator 421 such as vibration damping material between bottom corner fitting/casting and the energy absorbing coupling element. The vertical wave attenuator can be a closed cell PU elastomer such as polyurethane. The bottom corner layered energy absorbing coupling elements 423, 624 also includes an upper bolt hole 703 making it connectable to a vertical column 422, this feature is shared by all layered energy absorbing coupling elements except for the ones on top level which only receives top corner fittings/castings 10a, 10b. The bolt hole is one of several fastening means that can be used to secure the vertical column 422 to the bottom corner layered energy absorbing coupling elements 423, 624. The two different bottom corner layered energy absorbing coupling elements 423, 624 differs in their configuration of the direction of the support arrangement of the bracket which is on top with bolt holes 703 see figures 7a, 7b and 15. The contact surface to a vertical column differ between the corner layered energy absorbing coupling element of figure 7a, 7b, 423, and in figure 15 see the relevant figures.

[0099] The layered energy absorbing coupling elements 527 between corners in the x-direction differs from the corner elements in that they are configured to receive two corner fittings from two different modules, ref. fig 8a, 8b and 8c. These layered energy absorbing coupling elements includes two vertical wave attenuators 421 of the same type as the corner elements in figure 7a, 7b, 15a and 15b, they also include two horizontal wave attenuating elements 702 protruding vertically upwards from the support face 1004 of the same type as for the corner elements. The bottom between corners in the x-direction energy absorbing coupling elements 527 also includes an upper bolt hole 703 making it connectable to a vertical column 422.

[00100] Corner elements above ground and below top module level (intermediate): Also, the intermediate layered energy absorbing coupling elements differs in that they are designed to receive bottom corner fittings and top corner fittings. There are three types of intermediate layered energy absorbing coupling elements. Corners diagonally arranged shares the same layered energy absorbing coupling elements 529, 530, whilst the layered energy absorbing coupling elements 528 between corners in the x-direction are of the same type. The intermediate corner layered energy absorbing coupling elements 529, 530 need to support one bottom corner fitting 10c, 10d, thus the support face 1004 of these layered energy absorbing coupling elements includes one horizontal wave attenuating element 702 protruding vertically upwards from the support face 1004, see figure 10a, 10b 10c and 11. The intermediate corner layered energy absorbing coupling elements 529, 530 is also configured to support one top corner fitting 10a, 10b, thus the support face 1004 of these layered energy absorbing coupling elements also includes one horizontal wave attenuating element 1002 protruding vertically downwards from the support face 1004, see figure 10a, 10b 10c and 11. The intermediate layered energy absorbing coupling element of the corner type also includes two vertical wave attenuators 421 such as vibration damping material one between bottom corner fitting/casting 10c, 10d and one between the top corner fitting/casting 10a, 10b and the energy absorbing coupling element. The vertical wave attenuator can be a closed cell PU elastomer such as polyurethane. The two different intermediate corner layered energy absorbing coupling elements 529, 530 differs in their configuration of the direction of the support arrangement of the bracket in the same manner as for the elements 423 and 624 see figures 10a, 10b, 10c and 11.

[00101] The intermediate layered energy absorbing coupling elements 528 between corners in the x-direction differs from the corner elements in that they are configured to receive four corner fittings 10a, 10, 10c, 10d from two different modules, ref. 9a, 9b, 9c and 9d. The elements 528 includes four vertical wave attenuators 421 of the same type as the corner elements in figure 7a, 7b, 15a and 15b, they also include two horizontal wave attenuating elements 702 protruding vertically upwards from the support face 1004 of the same type as for the corner elements 529, 530. The elements 528 are also configured to support two top corner fitting 10a, 10b, thus the support face 1004 of these elements 528 also includes one horizontal wave attenuating element 1002 protruding vertically downwards from the support face 1004, see figure 9a, 9b, 9c and 9d.

[00102] Cribs: All intermediate elements 528, 529 and 530 includes cribs to support bottom corner fittings/castings 10c, 10d. The layout of the cribs is shown in figures 9a – 9d, 10a – 10c and 11. Figure 9a shows the dimensions of the cribs. The cribs are provided with a sidewall 1006 with a width d and height e and another sidewall 1005 with a width c and height e. The sidewalls 1005 and 1006 stand perpendicular to each other and share a common corner and they are adapted to the external size of a corner fitting/casting 10c, 10d. The elements 528 includes two cribs whilst the elements 529 and 530 includes one crib.

[00103] Corner elements at top level (top corner): The top corner layered energy absorbing coupling elements 531 and 532 do not include any means for connection with a column 422, They are designed to support one top corner fittings/castings 10a, 10b and includes one vertical 421 and one horizontal wave attenuators 1002 of the same types as for the other layered energy absorbing coupling elements described above.

[00104] Intermediate along X-axis elements at top level (top intermediate): The top intermediate layered energy absorbing coupling elements 534 do not include any means for connection with a column 422. They are designed to support two top corner fittings/castings 10a, 10b and includes two vertical 421 and two horizontal wave attenuators 1002 of the same types as for the other layered energy absorbing coupling elements described above.

Second embodiment

[00105] The second embodiment differs from the first in that, the horizontal beams for support of gallery are included only on grid 1, 3, 5, 6, 8 and 10, also the vertical columns 422 are only included on the same grids, see figures 23a – 25e. The layered energy absorbing coupling elements 2420, 2421 and 2422 differs from those of the first embodiments in that they are not adapted to be integrated with a vertical column 422, thus any fastening means for such a column is not existent. The elements 2421 which are for intermediate levels are not shown with cribs, however cribs may be added. The vibration attenuating means are of the same type as for the first embodiment.

[00106] The modular building complex shown in figures 23a – 25 includes a stairwell which is connected to an end gable of the modular building complex.

[00107] In a variant of the second embodiment the horizontal beams for support of the gallery are included only on grid 1, 4, 7 and 10.

Additional structures for the first and second embodiment

[00108] The modular building complex need support for wind on gable. Side building or external structure must be designed so it can support the modular building complex. Fixing points 227 for supporting structures are added to the vertical columns. Optional fixing points are provided with a bar 201 movable in Y-direction with a fixing point 228 at its end next to an end wall of a modular building complex 100, 1400, see figures 20, 21 and 22. The flexibility by providing a movable bar 201 facilitates connection with supporting structures such as wire girders or fixed metal girders.

[00109]

Claims

1. A layered energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422) adapted to mechanically coupling a building framework to corner fittings (10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) on container modules (110), and to attenuate horizontal oscillations and vertical oscillations propagating between the framework and the container modules (110) the energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422) at least comprises:

a. a supporting face (1004), where the supporting face (1004) is provided with a first protruding locking and oscillation attenuating pin (702, 1002), male element, protruding substantially upwards or downwards and being mechanically complimentary with a bottom corner fittings (10c, 10d) or top corner fittings (10a, 10b), female element, of a container (110), where the first locking and oscillation attenuating pin (702, 1002) is adapted to:

i. lock the bottom corner fittings (10c, 10d) of a container (110) or top corner fittings (10a, 10b) of a container (110) to the energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422), in a male female configuration, and

ii. attenuate horizontal oscillation waves propagating from the bottom corner fittings (10c, 10d) of a container (110) or top corner fittings (10a, 10b) of a container (110) to the first locking and oscillation attenuating pin (702, 1002), or

to attenuate horizontal oscillation waves propagating from the supporting face (1004) of an energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422) to a bottom corner fitting (10c, 10d) of a container (110) or top corner fitting (10a, 10b) of a container,

b. a first oscillation attenuating layer (421), where the first oscillation attenuating layer (421) is conform in shape with the supporting face (1004) and is adapted to be arranged in a sandwich configuration with the supporting face (1004), the first oscillation attenuating layer (421) is provided with a hole so that the first vibration attenuating layer (421) can be threaded over the first locking and oscillation attenuating pin (702, 1002) and where the first attenuating layer (421) is adapted to:

i. attenuate vertical oscillations propagating from a bottom corner fitting (10c, 10d) of a container (110) or top corner fitting (10a, 10b) of a container (110) to the supporting face (1004), and/or to attenuate vertical oscillation propagating from the supporting face (1004) of an energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422) to a bottom corner fitting (10c, 10d) of a container (110) or top corner fitting (10a, 10b) of a container (110),

thereby providing horizontal and vertical attenuation of oscillations between framework and containers (110).

2. The layered energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422) according to claim 1, where the supporting face (1004) is provided with vertical side walls (1005, 1006) extending from two adjacent side edges of the supporting face (1004) so that the side walls (1005, 1006) mutually form an angle of 80 - 100 degrees.

3. The layered energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422) according to claim 2, where the vertical side walls (1005, 1006) projects vertically upwards from the supporting face (1004).

4. The layered energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422) according to any one of claim 1 - 3, where the first oscillation attenuating layer (421) is arranged on top of the supporting face (1004) and where the first protruding locking and oscillation attenuating pin (702) is protruding substantially upwards.

5. The layered energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422) according to any one of claim 1 - 4, further comprising: at least one additional pressure distribution plate (2904), arranged on top of the first oscillation attenuating layer (421) and the pressure distribution plate (2904) is adapted to be threaded over the oscillation attenuating pin (702, 1002) so that the pin (702, 1002) can appear in a male female configuration with a corner fittings (10, 10B, 10C, 10D) of a container (110).

6. The layered energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422) according to claim 4 or 5 where the layered energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422) further comprises a second oscillation attenuating layer (421), where the second oscillation attenuating layer (421) is conform in shape with the supporting face (1004) and is adapted to be arranged as a bottom layer of a sandwich configuration with the supporting face (1004) and the first oscillation attenuating layer (421) and where the second oscillation attenuating layer (421) is provided with a hole so that the second oscillation attenuating layer (421) can be threaded over a second locking and oscillation attenuating pin (1002) protruding substantially downwards.

7. A layered energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422) according to claim 2 – 6 where the sidewalls includes:

a. a first sidewall (1006) parallel with an X-direction with a width in xdirection equalling d and a height in Z-direction equalling of e

b. a second sidewall (1005) parallel with an Y-direction with a width in Y-direction equalling c and a height in Z-direction equalling e, and c. a third sidewall parallel with an Y-direction

where the first, second and third sidewalls extends vertically upwards from the support face (1004) and where the support face (1004), the sidewalls (1005, 1006), the first protruding locking and oscillation attenuating pin and the first oscillation attenuating layer (421) together forms a first crib.

8. A layered energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422) according to claim 7, further comprising a second crib arranged symmetrically about an y-axis with respect to the first crib on the same vertical level with the first crib and with a distance between the first and second crib in the X-direction.

9. The layered energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422) according to any one of the previous claims, where the first and second protruding locking and oscillation attenuating pin (702, 1002) is integrated with the supporting face (1002) and is made of the same material as the supporting face (1004).

10. The layered energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422) according to any one of the previous claims, where the first and second protruding locking and oscillation attenuating pin (702, 1002) has a minimum width being substantially smaller that quarter wavelength of horizontal oscillating waves.

11. The layered energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422) according to any one of claim 6 – 10, where the first and second vibration attenuating layer (421) is adapted to a static range of use from 0.075 N/mm2 to 12 N/mm2 transferred between a bottom corner fittings (10c, 10d) and a top corner fittings (10a, 10b) and has a thickness of 12, 5 to 25 mm.

12. The layered energy absorbing coupling element (423, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 534, 624, 2420, 2421, 2422) according to any one of claims 6 – 11, where the first and second oscillating attenuating layer (421) is at least partly made of an elastomer.