WO2016110819A1

WO2016110819A1 - A modular building support apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2016110819A1
Application number: PCT/IB2016/050072
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael Mulvihill
Original assignee: Michael Mulvihill
Priority date: 2015-01-07
Filing date: 2016-01-07
Publication date: 2016-07-14
Also published as: GB2533944A

Abstract

A modular building support apparatus comprises a plurality of building support modules (500) having a face section (8) connected at lateral sides (55) to form a perimeter wall that retains free flowing substances. The wall encloses a space beneath a building (300) supported by the wall. Each module comprises the face section connected substantially perpendicular to a base (9) mountable on a foundation anchor (2). The face section has an adjustable length upstanding building support means (20,40) whereby the height of the face section and building is adjustable relative to the base and a portion of the building weight is transferred to the base. The module also comprises a length adjustable angled portion (4) that operates as a brace against the face section against force applied by free flowing substance to the face section. The module also has a building attachment means (90).

Description

A MODULAR BUILDING SUPPORT APPARATUS

Field of the Invention

This invention relates generally to a modular building support apparatus in the form of a wall assembled from building support modules wherein the wall retains free flowing substances to protect the building, its inhabitants and encloses a space beneath the building for convenient storage and usage of free flowing substances.

Background

Some regions of the world are arid. In these regions homes and factories need access to water. In towns or rural areas there is no municipal water supply so building owners must somehow provide for their own water supply.

Some regions of the world are prone to flooding, mudslides, or high amounts of snow. In these regions homes and factories need protection from ingress of such free flowing substances. Prior Art

Devices that can store water or snow are known but they are separate from buildings and factories. The storage device is a separate and unwanted cost for the building owner. Furthermore the building owner must have additional property to locate the storage device. Barriers can be used to retain free flowing materials but they are also separate from buildings and factories. The barrier often represents a separate and unwanted cost. Furthermore, if the barrier is breached by flooding water, mud or snow the building it is supposed to protect may become damaged and any of the building inhabitants may be injured. An example of a system for supporting a building is disclosed in UK patent application GB-A-828673 (Richards). The building is supported on blocks tied together by concentric steel rods which cannot retain a free flowing substance. An example of a system for supporting a building steeply sloping cites in disclosed in US patent US3524287 (Toselli). No mention of retaining free flowing substances with the system is mentioned. An example of a wall support is disclosed in US patent US 4068427 (Camardo). In light of the foregoing prior art, there is a need for an apparatus that can retain free flowing substances so as to protect a building and its inhabitants and even allow the free flowing substance to be put to use by the inhabitants, for example by allowing them to usefully store the free flowing substance.

Summary of the Invention According to one aspect of the present invention there is a modular building support apparatus comprising a plurality of building support modules each having a face section, a plurality of the modules being connected at lateral sides of their face sections to form a perimeter wall that retains free flowing substances and encloses a space beneath a building supported by the wall, each module comprising: the face section connected substantially perpendicular to a base mountable on a foundation anchor, the face section having an adjustable length building support means whereby the height of the face section, and thereby the building, is adjustable relative to the base and a portion of the building weight is transferred to the base; a length adjustable angled portion operates as a brace against the face section against force applied by free flowing substance to the face section, the angled portion being pivotally connected between the face section and the base so that when the height of the face section is adjusted, the brace pivots and the length is adjusted to accommodate the adjusted height of the face section ; and a building attachment means whereupon the building is held to the module.

Advantageously the building support apparatus is suitable for retaining free flowing substances which typically are found in the built environment. Examples of free flowing substance are liquids like water, petroleum, and oil. Other examples of free flowing substances retainable by the building support apparatus are snow, earth, mud, aggregates, grain, slurry and soil. Advantageously the building support apparatus is suitable for retaining free flowing substances which could collapse or flow under their own weight or weight of material behind them and damage or flood space beneath a building.

Preferably the attachment means enables the building to be connected to, or supported against a building support module.

Preferably the wall has no gap so as to retain the free flowing substances effectively in a vessel. Preferably the connected modules form a continuous wall with no gaps between them whereby the enclosed space is completely surrounded by an impermeable surface. Alternatively, the wall of the apparatus may have preformed gaps, doors, through channels or pipes between one or more module, so as to permit access to/from the enclosed space. In this alternative embodiment the wall has predefined gaps.

An advantage of the modular building support apparatus is that the wall is stable and strong to support a building if the angled portion extends into an enclosed space or away from an enclosed space.

Another advantage of the modular building support apparatus is that the wall is also stable even if the building is only held to a building attachment means, foundation or pile by its own weight. An advantage is that displacement of a building, parallel to a lateral side, is permitted so a joint does not have to support any weight of the building.

The length adjustable angled portion supports relatively little of the weight of the building because the weight of the building is transferred to the base primarily through an upright upstanding building support means. Advantageously the angled portion does contribute to the load that the upstanding building support means has to or is capable of, supporting without buckling.

Preferably a module is connected to an adjoining module by a joining means that permits displacement of the adjoining module parallel to the adjoined lateral side of the module so that adjoining modules can be at different heights above the base. And so advantageously face sections of adjoining modules can be at different heights. Preferably some modules in the wall are set high enough above the base to contact and support the building while other modules are set lower so as not to contact or support the building. The modules that do not support the building form part of the wall for barrier purposes only and retain free flowing substances. Preferably the joining means that connect(s) adjoining modules permit(s) rotation about an axis parallel to an adjoined lateral side of the adjoined modules. So that a wall can be made that zigzags to conform to a perimeter of a building.

Preferably the joining means does not permit any displacement or rotation other than displacement of the adjoining module parallel to the adjoined lateral side(s) and rotation about the axis parallel to the adjoined lateral side(s). Advantageously, because the modules do not otherwise rotate or displace, their movement is constrained. As a result of the constraint a plurality of modules that are connected form a wall that is stable because the interconnected face sections support each other.

Preferably the modular building support apparatus comprises a barrier suitable as a wall against liquids and loose or free flowing materials, wherein the face section comprises a channel for receiving and supporting the barrier. Advantageously the barrier is simply slipped into the channel and the sides of the channel hold the barrier against force applied by free flowing substances. Preferably the barrier comprises slats that slip into the channel in a manner similar to how a flat board slips into a rectangular slot. Advantageously slats are an inexpensive and effective barrier that are easily transported and reused. Preferably the channel has an open side or an opening in a side wall. The open side allows the slat to be inserted through the side wall into the channel. The slat is insertable into the opening in the side wall when a building is resting on top of the wall on the building attachment means.

Preferably the modular building apparatus includes a foundation anchor. Preferably the foundation anchor comprises at least one ground screw with a thread to engage ground whereby the anchor supports the portion of the weight of the building transferred to the base without sinking. The threads on the ground screw cut into the ground and grip the foundation anchor so that even when the ground is saturated, for example when the apparatus is being used for a wall that resists flood water, the apparatus can still support the weight of the building without sinking.

Preferably the base of the module is fixable to an anchor at three or more non-collinear locations. Preferably the base has at least three non-collinear anchor connecting means to connect to the anchor at three non-collinear locations. Advantageously connecting the base of one module to the anchor at three or more non-collinear locations provides stability so that one module can resist forces resulting from supporting a building. Advantageously connecting the base of one module to the anchor at three non-collinear locations provides stability so that the module can resist forces applied to it by adjoining modules that make-up the wall. The entire wall is thereby stabilized by the three or more non-collinear connections of the base to the anchor.

Preferably there is a separate anchor for each anchor connection so as to provide for redundancy in the event that one of the anchors fails.

Preferably the base is mountable on a foundation anchor located inside the enclosed space. The length adjustable angled portion that braces the face section against force applied by free flowing substance to the face section also extends inside the enclosed space. The angled portion is pivotally connected between the face section and the base so that when the height of the face section is adjusted, the brace pivots and the length are adjusted to accommodate the adjusted height of the face section. The face sections retain free flowing materials from entering into the enclosed space. Advantageously the angled portion is accessible within the enclosed space. Advantageously the enclosed space is accessible because the free flowing material is restrained from entering by the wall, because preferably the face section retains free flowing substances from flowing into the enclosed space. Preferably the face section permits free flowing substances to flow from the enclosed volume defined by the enclosed space. Preferably a flexible mat is suspended from the top or near the top of the face section by a barrier support means located near the top of the face section. Optionally a mat hangs in front of a bottom bar and is restrained by the bar from swinging inwards and permitting free flowing materials to flow into the enclosed space. Preferably the mat hangs as a curtain to render the face section impervious to liquids. Preferably the face section comprises a mat and suspension means is provided near the top of the face section from which to hang the mat as a curtain suitable as a wall against ingress of liquids and free flowing materials. Preferably in use the foundation anchor is located outside the enclosed space and the barrier support means hangs the mat intermediate the enclosed space and the adjustable length angled portion so as to support the mat against hydrostatic pressure of a liquid stored in the space. The mat is thereby pressed by the liquid and the mat is able to resist the pressure because the length adjustable angle portion braces the face section and thereby the mat against the pressure.

Preferably a portion of the face section, such as the barrier, can swing outward from the enclosed space to release free flowing materials from within the enclosed space. Preferably a part of the face section such the channel is formed so that the barrier is free to swing away from the enclosed space, or the barrier is manually movable to a position within the channel where the barrier is free to swing away from the enclosed space. Preferably the barrier is selectively blocked by a portion of the channel from permitting free flowing materials to flow into the enclosed space. So advantageously free flowing materials can drain out but cannot enter into the enclosed space through the wall. Advantageously the enclosed space under the building is thereby kept dry. Preferably the base is mountable on a foundation anchor located outside the enclosed space. The length adjustable angled portion that braces the face section against force applied by free flowing substances to the face section also extends outside the enclosed space. The angled portion is pivotally connected between the face section and the base so that when the height of the face section is adjusted, the brace pivots and the length may be adjusted to accommodate the adjusted height of the face section.

The face sections retain free flowing materials from flowing out of the enclosed space. Advantageously the angled portion is accessible outside the enclosed space. Advantageously the enclosed space is suitable for use as a holding tank for free flowing materials because the free flowing material is restrained from exiting the enclosed space by the wall, because preferably the face section retains free flowing substances from flowing into the enclosed space. Advantageously the modules of the perimeter wall can be arranged to hold tidal rises of water inside the holding tank. Lock gates or valves may be provided on inlets/outlets in order to facilitate this.

Preferably the face section permits free flowing substances to flow into of the enclosed space. Preferably a flexible mat suspended from the top or near the top of the face section hangs down in front of a bottom bar and is restrained by the bar from swinging inwards and so permits free flowing materials to flow into the enclosed space. Preferably a portion of the face section such as the barrier can swing inward from the enclosed space to release free flowing materials from within the enclosed space.

Preferably a part of the face section such the channel is formed so that the barrier is free to swing away from the enclosed space, or the barrier is manually movable to a position within the channel where the barrier is free to swing in towards the enclosed space. Preferably barrier is blocked by a portion of the channel from permitting free flowing materials to flow outwards from the enclosed space. So advantageously free flowing materials enter into but are prevented from exiting from the enclosed space through the wall. Advantageously the enclosed space under the building is thereby useful as a holding tank that is filled when there flooding and store water when flood waters recede.

Advantageously the wall is easily converted from a wall, that keeps the enclosed space dry, to a wall that serves as a holding tank simply by reversing the directions that the modules face. Preferably the perimeter wall made from adjoined modules forms an enclosure suitable for use as a holding tank. Advantageously the perimeter wall encloses the space under the building so the holding tank is preferably located under the building.

Preferably a portion of the perimeter wall is located under the supported building and a portion of the perimeter wall extends beyond the edge of the building so that a portion of the holding tank is not covered by the building.

Preferably the face section of each module has a lateral side arranged substantially parallel with and joined to a lateral side of an adjacent face section by a joining means. Advantageously the full area of the face section is useable as part of the perimeter wall.

Preferably each module comprises an elevation adjustment means for adjusting the relative orientation of the lateral side with respect to the foundation anchor so as to arrange the lateral side substantially parallel with a lateral side of an adjacent face section. Preferably the elevation adjustment means is connected to the base. Preferably the elevation adjustment means is a screw jack connecting the base to the foundation anchor.

Preferably adjusting the relative orientation of one lateral side of a face section also adjusts the relative orientation of the other lateral side of the face section because face section comprises a rigid skeleton around its perimeter. Preferably the elevation adjustment means adjusts the relative elevation and orientation of the face section with respect to the foundation anchor.

Preferably each module comprises a joining means that connects a lateral side of the face section to a lateral side of the face section of an adjacent module, the joining means permitting the module to displace in the direction parallel to the lateral side and rotate about an axis parallel the lateral side relative to the adjacent module.

Preferably the joining means comprises a hinge arm extending laterally from the adjustable length support means, and a slot through the hinge arm aligned with the lateral side that accepts a pin slidable parallel to the lateral side and rotatable about an axis parallel the lateral side. With this joining means is possible to slide two modules together and join them by simply dropping a pin through the slot. Another advantage is that only one type of module is required. All the modules are identical because the hinge arms are identical. Also, the pin is inexpensive.

Preferably the joining means comprises a clevis that extends the length of the lateral side; the clevis having a circular inward curl to the enclosed space to grasp a clevis that extends the length of the lateral side an adjacent module; the clevis of the adjacent module having a circular curl outward from the enclosed space. Advantageously with this joining means it possible to slide two modules together to join them. This arrangement avoids the need for a pin hence there is no need to drop a pin through a slot. Another advantage of this joining means is that it makes it possible to join the modules together with the building in position above them. The building above the wall does not get in the way of inserting a pin into a slot because no joining means is required with this joining means. Another advantage of this joining means is that two connected clevises form a seal to retain free flowing substances. There is no need for a separate flap to cover the joint formed by the connected clevises. The joint is very strong because clevis extends along length of a lateral side and so strength of the whole lateral side is gained. Another advantage is that face sections are identical if reversed. Hence it is possible to connect together a module with a base extending into the enclosed space and an adjoining module with a base extending away from the enclosed space. Preferably the joining means comprises a mortise that extends the length of the lateral side; the mortise has a circular internal surface to grasp a circular tenon that extends the length of the lateral side an adjacent module. Advantages of this joining means are that: two modules are joined just by sliding them together to put their lateral edges in contact; and there is no need to drop pin through a slot and so no need for a pin; and modules are joinable together with a building in position above them because the building does not get in the way of pin insertion from above the wall down into a slot. A connected mortise and tenon can form a seal to retain free flowing substances, so a separate flap is not needed to cover the joint so that there are no leaks. This joining means forms a joint between adjoining modules that is very strong because the mortise and tenon extend along the length of a lateral side.

Preferably the joining means has a coating of a waterproof material to form a watertight seal against the joining means of an adjacent module. Advantageously the result is a self-sealing joint and therefore a joint cover such as a flap of waterproof material is not needed. Preferably the coating is resilient to accommodate thermal expansion of the modules.

Preferably the joining means forms an interference clearance space whereby the joint can accommodate thermal expansion between adjoining modules. In one example of joining means the slot has an inner diameter greater than the diameter of the pin. In another example the circular diameter of the mortise is greater than the diameter of the tenon.

Preferably the face section has lateral sides comprising a means for grasping an edge of a joint cover in the form of a flexible sheet that covers the gap that is flexible and suitable for covering a joining means connecting adjoining building support modules such that the cover retains free flowing substances from flowing through the wall. Advantageously the adjoining modules do not need to be connected on the lateral side by a rigid joining means. The lateral side can be connected by a flexible covering providing flexibility at the joint.

Preferably the face section comprises a bottom horizontal bar fixed to the base, a top horizontal bar aligned substantially parallel to the bottom horizontal bar, and lateral sides comprising the adjustable length support means which are connected between the top horizontal bar and the bottom horizontal bar, such that the top horizontal bar includes an attachment means and is sized to support the portion of the weight of the building supported by the module. Advantageously the bars and support means provide a skeleton frame around the perimeter of the face section.

Preferably the building attachment means prevents the building being displaced vertically or horizontally from the apparatus. Advantageously the building will not be blown off or knocked off the support apparatus by a storm or an earthquake or flood.

Preferably the attachment means is aligned collinear with the adjustable length support means and is in use intermediate the building and upstanding building support means whereby in use the portion of the weight of the building supported by the module is transferred to the base along a substantially straight line collinear with the upstanding building support means and the attachment means. Advantageously a pre-stressed bending moment is applied to the upstanding building support means. Hence the upstanding building support means does not have to be thick nor heavy to support a large bending moment from the weight of the building. Ideally three or more adjoining modules are arranged with non-parallel face sections so as to form a wall which is zigzagged. Advantageously the wall zigzags so that the building attachment means are located under ideal positions of the building where the building is strong enough to be supported.

The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the drawings in which:

Brief Description of the Figures

Figure 1 shows a building supported on a modular building support apparatus when viewed from beneath the building;

Figure 2 shows a building supported on a modular building support apparatus when viewed from above the building;

Figure 3 shows on the left side a view of a building support module of a modular support apparatus with the frame lowered and (on the right hand side of Figure 3) a view of the device with the frame raised; Figure 4 shows a plurality of the building support modules joined side by side as a wall forming a barrier to free flowing materials;

Figure 5 shows a gap between grips of an expansion joint between two building support modules arranged side by side;

Figure 6 shows four of the building support modules arranged with their frames forming walls of a box for a holding tank;

Figure 7 shows a barrier partially raised through a slot in the face section;

Figure 8 shows lateral sides of two building support modules connected by a link;

Figure 9 shows the height of each building support module is individually adjustable as connected by the link;

Figure 10 shows the link that connects the adjustable length building support on the lateral side of each building support module;

Figure 1 1 shows lateral sides of two building support modules connected by a pin; Figure 12 shows a joining means in the form of a clevis joined to an adjustable length building support;

Figure 13 shows a joining means in the form of a mortise and tenon each joined to an adjustable length building support;

Figure 14 shows two building support modules connected by a joining means in the form of a mortise and tenon; Figure 15 shows a plurality of building support modules joined at their lateral sides so that the face section of each module is connected at its lateral sides to a face section of an adjoining module to form a perimeter wall that retains free flowing substances; Figure 16 shows the connected building support modules of Figure 15 covered by a cladding and enclosing a space beneath a building supported by the wall; and

Figure 17 shows a side view of connected building support modules forming a perimeter wall that supports building on the top rim of the wall.

Detailed Description of the Invention

Figures 1 and 2 show a building supported on a skeletal frame forming a portion 1000 of a building support apparatus. The building support apparatus comprises a plurality of building support modules 500. Each of the building support modules 500 has a face section 8 that is connected at lateral sides 55. The face section 8 is coverable to form a perimeter wall that retains free flowing substances. An example of a means by which the face section is coverable is a mat 7 which hangs from a cross bar 23 of a frame forming the face section as shown in Figure 4. Another example is a slat 5 supported slidable into a slot in the frame as shown in Figure 6.

The perimeter wall encloses a space beneath a building 300 supported by the wall. Each module is comprising: the face section 8 connected substantially perpendicular to a base 9 mountable on a foundation anchor 2, the face section having an adjustable length building support 20, 40 means whereby the height of the face section 8 and building 300 is adjustable relative to the base and a portion of the building weight is transferred to the base 9. A length adjustable angled portion 4 operates as a brace against the face section 8 against force applied by free flowing substance to the face section 8. The angled portion 4 is pivotally connected between the face section and the base so that when the height of the face section is adjusted, the brace pivots and the length is adjusted to accommodate the adjusted height of the face section, and a building attachment means 90 whereupon the building is held to the module.

The cross bar 23 is arranged to function as or to support the building attachment means so that the mat 7 or slat 5 can extend and reach the underside of the building supported. The pictured embodiment has a building support module comprising: a braced frame comprising a base section 9 and upstanding building support means 20, 40. The frame is mountable on foundations 2 in a plurality of locations. The height of the frame is arranged to be adjusted by height-adjusting means. The device further comprises a face 8 supported by said frame. Preferably the face 8 is covered by a detachable mat 7.

The upstanding building support means 20, 40 of the frame provide channels arranged to receive barrier 5. The mat 7 provides apertures dimensioned to receive and engage fastener studs 1 1 . The mat 7 is fastened to the face 8 by fastener studs 1 1 which pass through apertures in the mat 7. The face 8 is braced by a brace 3. The brace comprises an adjustable angled portion 4. The length of the adjustable angled portion is adjustable. The brace 3 also comprises an adjustable strut 9 that supports the adjustable angled portion. The length of adjustable strut 9 can also be adjusted.

In the pictured embodiment the adjustable angled portion 4 ends at a face plate 12. The face plate 12 combines with a link 13, low stress hinge 70, and angle plate 80 to form a stress-bearing section 10. The stress bearing section is in direct communication with the face 8. In other embodiments a second strut may be intermediate between the face 8 and angled portion 4.

The angled portion 4 interfaces with the strut 9 at a hinge 6. The length of the adjustable angled portion 4 is adjustable to accommodate the adjusted height of the face section 8

The adjustable angle portion is connected between the face section and the base by hinges, and the adjustable angled portion rotates on these hinges as the height of the face section is adjusted. The adjustable angled portion is suitable for bracing or propping the face section against liquids and free flowing materials.

The cover 14 includes a flexible bottom portion 15 and intermediate extenders 16 and is formed in rubber or flexible plastics.

The cover 14 sits in the channels 50 for the barriers 5. The cover 14 also sits in the gap 25 between the face sections 8 of adjacent building support modules. Said channel 50 includes a plurality of grips to hold both the barrier 5 and cover 14.

The ground that the building support module is placed on may be rough, uneven, and rocky. Therefore, the foundation anchors 2 are convenient as they can be screwed into the ground at locations that avoid rocky outcroppings and so forth. The length of the base may be adjusted to connect to the foundation anchors where they are located in the ground. The foundation anchors are augur type. They act as piles when fixed into the ground. They can be fixed into the ground by turning so that threads of the augur bite into the ground. The height of the top of the anchor above the ground and therefore advantageously the height of the base of the module and face section are adjustable by turning the anchor type augur.

An elevation adjustment means attached to the frame and to the foundation anchors 2 enables the elevation of the frame above each anchor to be adjusted. Figure 3 shows the elevation adjustment means as a screw jack 201 .

There is an adjustment jack 201 located at each connection between the base 9 and foundation 2. Therefore, the slope of the base can be adjusted relative to the ground in which the foundation is anchored. In use two or more building support modules are placed lateral side by lateral side and fixed to the adjacent foundation anchors. Then the orientation of the base 9 of each adjacent building support module is adjusted by screw jacks 201 at each foundation connection point. The bases 9 of adjacent building support modules are adjusted to be substantially parallel. This has the effect of adjusting the adjacent face sections 8 so that they are substantially parallel as the orientation of the face section 8 is adjusted when the orientation of the base 9 is adjusted. This is because each face section 8 is always nearly perpendicular to its base. An expansion joint for connecting two building support modules into a system can be seen in Figure 5 between the two adjacent face sections 8. The expansion joint is also shown in detail in Figure 5.

The frame comprises a face section 8. The bottom side of the face section comprises a bottom horizontal bar 22 connected to the adjustable struts of the base 9. The bottom horizontal bar is also aligned substantially parallel with the ground in use because the base is connected to the foundation 2. The top side of the face section comprises a top horizontal bar 23 aligned substantially parallel to the bottom horizontal bar 22. The lateral sides of the face section 8 are the upstanding building support means 20, 40. One end of each upstanding building support means is connected to the bottom horizontal bar 22. The other end of each upstanding building support means is connected to the top horizontal bar 23. The perimeter formed by the rectangular arrangement of the top horizontal bar 23, bottom horizontal bar 22, and the upstanding building support means 20, 40 is the perimeter of the face section 8.

The barrier is waterproof or partially waterproof depending if the edge to edge contact of the slats is arranged to form a waterproof seal.

Near the top of the face section 8, such as near or at the top horizontal bar 23, the face section 8 comprises a suspension means from which to hang a mat 7 so that the mat 7 hangs down as a curtain from the suspension means in front of the face section. Figure 4 show the mat 7 hanging as a curtain at the front of the face section. A waterproof mat 7 makes the face section 8 more impervious to water. A tough and durable mat 7 makes the face section 8 a more effective and longer lasting wall against free flowing materials. The height of the face section of the building support module in the right side of Figure 3 is raised so that the height of the face section is higher than the height of the face section of the building support module on the left side of Figure 3. The height of the raised face section in Figure 3 is higher because the top horizontal bar 23 is higher and because the length of the upstanding building support means 20, 40 are longer.

To accomplish raising or lowering the face section 8, the upstanding building support means are lengthened to raise the top horizontal bar 23 and shortened to lower the top horizontal bar. Telescopic action of the screw jacks 21 accomplishes the lengthening and shortening of the upstanding building support means 20, 40.

The face section remains substantially perpendicular to the ground as it is raised or lowered. The foundation anchors 2 are fixed immovable in the ground as the face section is raised or lowered.

So that the face section is maintained substantially vertical as the height of the face section is increased or decreased, the length of the adjustable angled portion 4 is adjustable an able to rotate about the hinge 6 that attaches the adjustable angled portion 4 to the base. The length of the adjustable angled portion 4 is adjustable with a telescopic mechanism or other length adjusting mechanism such as screw jack 41 . In another embodiment the mat 7 comprises a top portion and a flexible bottom. The top portion is a flexible sheet or a stiff plate. It has a lower edge that overlaps the upper edge of the flexible bottom. The top portion slides down while covering the upper part of the flexible bottom. The overlap provides between the top portion 30 and the flexible bottom 38 a water tight or nearly a water tight seal so that the water is prevented from leaking through the face section 8. The two-part mat forms a curtain that is suspended from the long edge of the top of the face section 8.

A plurality of building support modules can be arranged to form a longer retaining wall or a holding tank. Each building support module has a face section 8 having lateral sides near the upstanding building support means 20. A lateral side of a face section is joined to a lateral side of an adjacent face section thereby forming a longer retaining wall or holding tank.

The lateral sides of the face section 8 comprise a means to grasp an edge of a resilient and waterproof cover 14. These are illustrated by grips 18 extending laterally from the lateral sides of the face section. The grips 18 clamp the cover 14 between jaws. Preferably the cover 14 is a flexible sheet. The lateral sides of the face sections are close together, but they are not touching. There is a gap 25 between the lateral sides of adjacent frames.

The cover 14 spans the gap between the lateral sides of adjacent face sections and thereby covers the gap. 25. As the cover is resilient, the gap is free to expand and contract with hot and cold weather. Preferably the cover is water proof, resilient, tough, and flexible.

Advantageously because the cover is flexible it bends to cover a gap 25 between adjacent face sections 8 that are not parallel. Thus as in Figure 6 where the frames are arranged at right angles to form a holding tank 32 the gap between the lateral edges is covered by the flexible cover and prevents water from passing through the gap.

Depending on the type and arrangement of the grasping means and the connection of the means to the sheet the expansion joint need not be waterproof. Characteristics of the cover are that it is resilient, flexible, stretchable, bendable, tough, and water proof to the extent that is practical with the cost constraints of construction material. Preferably the cover is waterproof so as to prevent water passing through the expansion joint.

Figure 6 shows a holding tank 32 comprising four building support modules. The lateral edges of the face sections are connected together by expansion joints. Attached to each face section is a mat 7 attached along the long edge of the top of the face section. The mat hangs down like a curtain. The curtain acts as a waterproof wall for retaining flowing or standing liquids. The holding tank 32 is suitable for holding water, petroleum, oil, and other liquids. The holding tank 32 is also suitable for holding snow, earth, rocks, and soil, and other loose free flowing materials.

Figure 15 shows a plurality of building support modules 500 connected at lateral sides to form an enclosed tank. Six building support modules are connected to form the width of the perimeter wall. Nine modules are connected to form the length of the perimeter wall. A free flowing material such as water is containable within the perimeter of the enclosed wall as illustrated.

As shown in Figure 15 each face section 8 connected substantially perpendicular to a base 9. The base comprises an adjustable strut 9 so that the length of the base is extendable away from the face section. Each adjustable strut 9 is mountable on a foundation anchor 2.

Figure 16 shows a building 300 supported on the top rim 92 of the perimeter wall formed by the adjoined building support modules shown in Figure 15. Hence the building rests on top of the perimeter wall. The perimeter of the of the building support modules is constructed so as to conform to the perimeter of the building. Underneath the building is the enclosed space surrounded by the perimeter wall formed by the connected building support modules.

In Figure 16 the building support module is covered by a cladding. The cladding improves the aesthetic appearance of the building resting on the wall since the skeletal components of the building support modules are hidden by the cladding. The cladding also covers the modules to protect them from wind and windblown sand and dust.

The perimeter wall formed by the connected building support module and the side walls of the building are shown substantially co-planar. However, this is not necessary. The wall attachment means 92 is connected to a component of the building. This component is capable of supporting the fraction of the weight of the building that is supported by the attachment means.

As the face section 8 having an adjustable length building support means 20 whereby the height of the face section is adjustable, the height of the rim of the perimeter wall is also adjustable. Hence the height of the building is adjustable relative to the base and height of the building 300 is adjustable relative to the ground that supports the base 9 via the anchors 2 in the ground. Each building support module transfers a portion of the building weight through the adjustable length building support mean 20 to the base 9 thence down into the ground,

As illustrated in Figure 16 a useful storage tank for water or other free flowing materials is formed by the perimeter wall underneath the building supported by the perimeter wall.

The length adjustable angled portions 4 operate as a brace against the face section 8. Thus the length adjustable angled portion operates as a brace against force applied by free flowing substance to the face section. As illustrated in Figures 15 and 16 the length adjustable angled portion resists the hydrostatic pressure of water in the enclosed space which is enclosed by the perimeter wall. The length adjustable angled portions also stabilize the perimeter wall so that the building rests safely on the perimeter wall.

The length adjustable angled portions also aid the adjustable length building support means 20 to resist their tendency to buckle under the weight of the building resting on the rim of the perimeter wall. As illustrated in Figure 15, the angled portion is pivotally connected between the face section and the base. When the height of the face section is adjusted, the brace pivots and the length is adjusted to accommodate the adjusted height of the face section.

Figures 15 and 16 both show a building attachment means 90 on the top rim of the perimeter wall whereupon the building 300 is held to modules 500 that form the wall. Figure 17 shows a side view of the building 300 resting on top rim 92 of the perimeter wall formed by connected building support modules. The building support modules 500 also support a platform 94 at the height of the rim of the perimeter wall. The platform extends horizontally away from the side of the building. The platform has various useful functions such as forming a floor for a car driveway or a roof of a carport adjacent the building as shown in Figure 17.

Figures 8, 9, 10, 1 1 , 12, 13, and 14 show embodiments where each module comprises a joining means 1 10, 1 12, 120, 122, 125, 130, 132, 140, 141 , 142 that connects a lateral side of the face section to a lateral side of the face section of an adjacent module, the joining means permitting the module to displace in the direction parallel to the lateral side and rotate about an axis parallel the lateral side relative to the adjacent module.

Figure 8 shows two building support modules adjoined by a link 1 10. The link is shown separately in Figure 10. Two parallel slots 1 14, 1 15 extend through the link. The slots 1 14, 1 15 have a circular cross section.

Two building support modules are connected by the link as adjustable length support means 20, 40 on each module are pass through the two slots 1 14, 1 15. As shown in Figure 8 and Figure 9 the joining means permits the lateral sides of the adjoined building support modules to slide vertically relative to each other. As a result, the adjoined building support modules slide vertically relative to each other. The height of a building support module is also adjustable to a different height than the adjoined building support module. Figure 1 1 shows an embodiment wherein the joining means comprises a hinge arm 120, 122 extending laterally from the adjustable length support means 20, 40 and a slot 121 through the hinge arm aligned with the lateral side that accepts a pin 125. The pin 125 slid-able parallel to the lateral side and rotatable about an axis parallel the lateral side. As result each building support module is slid-able parallel to the lateral side and of the adjoined building support module. Each building support module rotates about the pin axis and so rotates with respect to the adjoined support module. With this joining means is possible to slide two modules together and join them by simply dropping pin through the slot. Another advantage is that only one type of module is required. All the modules are identical because the hinge arms are identical. Also, the pin is inexpensive.

Figure 12 shows an alternative embodiment of joining means. The joining means comprises a clevis 130, 133 that extends the length of the lateral side; the clevis having circular curl 131 inward to the enclosed space to grasp a clevis that extends the length of the lateral side an adjacent module; the clevis of the adjacent module having a circular curl outward 133 to the enclosed space. Advantageously with this joining means it possible to slide two modules together to join them. There is no need for a pin. There is no need to drop a pin through a slot. Another advantage of this joining means is that it makes it possible to join the modules together with the building in position above them. The building above the wall does not get in way of inserting a pin into a slot because no joining means is required with this joining means. Another advantage of this joining means is that two connected clevises form a seal to retain free flowing substances. There is no need for a separate flap to cover the joint formed by the connected clevises. The joint is very strong because clevis extends along length of a lateral side and so strength of the whole lateral side is gained. Another advantage is that face sections are identical if reversed. Hence it is possible to connect together a module with a base extending into the enclosed space and an adjoining module with a base extending away from the enclosed space.

Figures 13 and 14 show an alternative embodiment of the joining means comprises a mortise 140 that extends the length of the lateral side; the mortise having a circular internal surface 141 to grasp a circular tenon 142 that extends the length of the lateral side an adjacent module. Advantages of this joining means are: two modules are joined just by sliding them together to put their lateral edges in contact; there is no need to drop pin through a slot and do not need a pin; modules are joinable together with building in position above them because building does not get in way of pin inserting a pin from above the wall down into a slot; a connected mortise and tenon form a seal to retain free flowing substances, so a separate flap is not needed to cover joint so that there are no leaks; and this joining means forms a joint between adjoining modules that is very strong because the mortise and tenon extends along length of lateral side.

By loose free flowing material is meant any material that cannot hold its shape or position without being retained by the face section 8 of the building support module. Liquid, slurry and grain are all free flowing materials. The mat presses against the bottom horizontal bar of the face section, the top horizontal bar of the face section and also the upstanding building support means of the face section. The mat 7 also presses against the barrier 5 comprised of slats 51 restrained within the channel 50. The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing from the scope of invention.

The foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.

Index of Labeled Features in Figures adjustable angled portion (with extension means 41 ) 4 adjustable angled portion - extension means 41 adjustable angle portion pivot connection to upstanding building support 62 adjustable angled portion pivot connection to base 64 base - adjustable strut 9 base - adjustable strut - extension means 91 base = jacking mechanism 201 building 300 building attachment means 90 brace (= 4 & 9 & 6 & 10) 3 expansion joint - cover = flexible sheet 14 expansion joint - cover = flexible bottom 15 expansion joint - cover - intermediate extender 16 expansion joint - gap between frame lateral edges 25 expansion joint - grips for sheet lateral edge 18 face section 8 face section - lateral side 55 face section - bottom horizontal bar 22 face section - top horizontal bar 23 face section - top horizontal bar - fastener studs 1 1 upstanding building support means 20, 40 upstanding building support means - channels 50 upstanding building support means - channels - barrier 5 upstanding building support means - channels - barrier - slats 51 upstanding building support means - jack - height adjusting means 21 foundations 2 hinge connects base adjustable strut to adjustable angled portion of brace 6 holding tank 32 joint - flange 26 joint - pad 27 joining means - link 1 10 joining means - hinge arm 120, 122 joining means - hinge arm slot 121 joining means - clevis 130, 132 joining means - clevis circular curl 131 , 133 joining means - mortise 140 joining means - mortise internal surface 141 joining means - tenon 142 mat 7 mat - top edge 31 perimeter wall - top rim 92 stress bearing section - angle plate 80 stress bearing section - face plate 12 stress bearing section - link 13 stress bearing section -low stress hinge 70 stress bearing section

The invention has been described by way of examples only. Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

Claims:

1 . A modular building support apparatus comprising a plurality of building support modules each having a face section, a plurality of the modules are connected at lateral sides of the face section to form a perimeter wall that retains free flowing substances and encloses a space beneath a building supported by the wall, each module comprising: the face section connected substantially perpendicular to a base mountable on a foundation anchor the face section having an adjustable length building support means whereby the height of the face section and thereby the building is adjustable relative to the base and a portion of the building weight is transferred to the base, a length adjustable angled portion operates as a brace against the face section so that the face section resists a force applied thereto, the angled portion being pivotally connected between the face section and the base so that when the height of the face section is adjusted, the brace pivots and the length is adjusted to accommodate the adjusted height of the face section, and a building attachment means whereby the building is held to the module.

2. An apparatus according to claim 1 comprising the foundation anchor, wherein the anchor comprises a ground screw with a thread to engage ground whereby the anchor supports the portion of the weight of the building transferred the base without sinking.

3. An apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the base is fixable to an anchor at three non-collinear points.

4. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the face section comprises barrier support means for receiving and supporting a barrier.

5. An apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the barrier support means is a channel through the face section and the barrier is comprised of slats.

6. An apparatus according to claim 5 wherein the barrier support means is located near the top of the face section and the barrier is a mat hung as a curtain to render the face section impervious to liquids.

7. An apparatus according to claim 6 wherein in use the foundation anchor is located outside the enclosed space and the barrier support means hangs the mat intermediate enclosed space and the adjustable length angled portion so as to support the mat against hydrostatic pressure of a liquid stored in the space.

8. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the base of each module comprises an elevation adjustment means for adjusting the relative orientation of the lateral side with respect to the foundation anchor so as to arrange the lateral side substantially parallel with a lateral side of an adjacent face section.

9. An apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the elevation adjustment means is a screw jack connecting the base to the foundation anchor.

10. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein each module comprises a joining means that connects a lateral side of the face section to a lateral side of the face section of an adjacent module, the joining means permitting the module to displace in the direction parallel to the lateral side and rotate about an axis parallel the lateral side relative to the adjacent module.

1 1 . An apparatus according to claim 10 wherein the joining means comprises a hinge arm extending laterally from the adjustable length support means, and a slot through the hinge arm aligned with the lateral side that accepts a pin slidable parallel to the lateral side and rotatable about an axis parallel the lateral side.

12. An apparatus according to claim 10 wherein the joining means comprises a clevis that extends the length of the lateral side; the clevis having circular curl inward to the enclosed space to grasp a clevis that extends the length of the lateral side an adjacent module; the clevis of the adjacent module having a circular curl outward to the enclosed space.

13. An apparatus according to claim 10 wherein the joining means comprises a mortise that extends the length of the lateral side; the mortise having a circular internal surface to grasp a circular tenon that extends the length of the lateral side an adjacent module.

14. An apparatus according to any of claims 10 to 13 wherein joining means has a coating of a water proof material to form a watertight seal against the joining means of an adjacent module.

15. An apparatus according to claim 14 wherein the coating is resilient to accommodate thermal expansion of the modules.

16. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the face section has lateral sides comprising a means for grasping an edge of a joint cover in the form of a flexible sheet that covers a gap intermediate the lateral sides of adjoined modules that is flexible and suitable for covering a joining means connecting adjoining building support modules such that the cover retains free flowing substances from flowing through the wall.

17. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the face section comprises a bottom horizontal bar fixed to the base, a top horizontal bar aligned substantially parallel to the bottom horizontal bar, and lateral sides comprising the adjustable length support means which are connected between the top horizontal bar and the bottom horizontal bar, such that the top horizontal bar comprises the attachment means and is sized to support the portion of the weight of the building supported by the module.

18. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the building attachment means prevents the building being displaced vertically or horizontally from the apparatus.

19. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the attachment means is aligned collinear with the adjustable length support means and is in use intermediate the building and upstanding building support means whereby in use the portion of the weight of the building supported by the module is transferred to the base along a substantially straight line collinear with the upstanding building support means and the attachment means.

20. A system including the apparatus according to claim 19 wherein three or more adjoining modules are arranged with non-parallel face sections so as to form a wall which is zigzagged.

21 . An apparatus and system as herein described and with reference to the Figures.