WO2017025847A1

WO2017025847A1 - Convertible shipping container and building fixture apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2017025847A1
Application number: PCT/IB2016/054538
Authority: WO
Inventors: Christopher Andrew STRUTHERS
Original assignee: Tgood Holdings Limited
Priority date: 2015-08-07
Filing date: 2016-07-29
Publication date: 2017-02-16

Abstract

Various embodiments provide an apparatus comprising: a parallelepiped frame; a plurality of outer walls fixed to the frame such that each outer side of the apparatus is formed by a different one of the plurality of outer walls; a floor forming a bottom of the apparatus and a ceiling forming a top of the apparatus, the floor and ceiling being fixed to the frame; and an inner wall fixed to the frame to form an inner side of the apparatus, the inner wall being adjacent to one of the outer walls; the adjacent one outer wall being removeably fixed to the frame so as to be removable to transition the apparatus from a shipping container configuration, in which the plurality of outer walls are affixed to the frame, to a building fixture configuration, in which the inner wall is an external wall of a building. Some other embodiments provide a building kit comprising a plurality of apparatuses.

Description

CONVERTIBLE SHIPPING CONTAINER AND BUILDING FIXTURE

APPARATUS

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure is directed to an apparatus that is convertible between a shipping container and a building fixture.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Shipping containers are modular containers that are used for transporting goods around the globe via various modes of transport including ship, rail, plane and truck. Most shipping containers are standardized; the most common standard for standardized shipping containers is provided by the International Standards Organization (ISO), which publishes standards defining attributes which shipping containers must have in order to be considered an ISO certified shipping container.

[0003] In particular, ISO standard ISO/TC 104 provides the standards for shipping containers. Generally, speaking, these standards define a container as an article of transport equipment that is: of a permanent character and accordingly is strong enough to be suitable for repeated use; specially designed to facilitate the carriage of goods by one or more modes of transport without intermediate reloading; fitted with devices permitting ready handling, particularly in transferring from one mode of transport to another; facilitates easy filling and emptying; and complies with ISO specified dimensional and quality criteria. Examples of applicable standards include ISO 668 relating to classification, dimensions and ratings, ISO 1161 relating to corner fittings, ISO 1496 relating to specification and testing and ISO 6346 relating to coding, identification and marking.

[0004] It is known to modify standardized shipping containers for non-shipping uses, including repurposing old shipping containers for use as permanent or semi- permanent human habitation and material storage building fixtures. For example, shipping containers have been converted into housing fixtures in developing countries or in remote locations such as remote mining sites. However, such repurposing tends to involve considerable custom modification and can be labor and skill intensive. There exists a continued desire to improve the conversion of shipping containers into building fixtures, such as reducing the complexity, labor, and/or cost of using a shipping container as a building fixture .

SUMMARY

[0005] A first aspect provides an apparatus comprising: a parallelepiped frame; a plurality of outer walls fixed to the frame such that each outer side of the apparatus is formed by a different one of the plurality of outer walls; a floor forming a bottom of the apparatus and a ceiling forming a top of the apparatus, the floor and ceiling being fixed to the frame; and an inner wall fixed to the frame to form an inner side of the apparatus, the inner wall being adjacent to one of the outer walls; the adjacent one outer wall being removeably fixed to the frame so as to be removable to transition the apparatus from a shipping container configuration, in which the plurality of outer walls are affixed to the frame, to a building fixture configuration, in which the inner wall is an external wall of a building.

[0006] In an embodiment, the inner wall comprises at least one of the following: an opening, a frame, a door, a window, a duct and an electrical device.

[0007] In an embodiment, the inner wall is removeably fixed to the frame.

[0008] In an embodiment, the inner wall comprises two or more inner panels.

[0009] In an embodiment, each inner panel comprises an inner skin and an outer skin and thermal insulation material sandwiched in-between the inner skin and the outer skin, wherein the thermal insulation material and the inner and outer skins have an R- value ofR-5 to R-8.

[0010] In an embodiment, the inner wall is spaced from the adjacent one outer wall so as to maintain a gap therebetween.

[0011] In an embodiment, the inner wall is in parallel with the one outer wall.

[0012] In an embodiment, one of the outer walls comprises a door.

[0013] In an embodiment, each outer wall is removeably fixed to the frame.

[0014] In an embodiment, each outer wall is removeably fixed to the frame by a plurality of fasteners positioned to be removable from outside the apparatus.

[0015] In an embodiment, each outer wall comprises two or more outer panels.

[0016] In an embodiment, each outer panel comprises folded edge portions and the outer panels are fixed to each other and to the frame via their folded edge portions.

[0017] In an embodiment, the apparatus comprises a plurality of inner walls fixed to the frame, each inner side of the apparatus being formed by a different one of the plurality of inner walls, each inner wall being adjacent to a different one of the outer walls, and each outer wall being removable to transition the apparatus into the building fixture configuration in which each inner wall is an external wall of the building.

[0018] In an embodiment, the ceiling is removeably fixed to the frame.

[0019] In an embodiment, the ceiling is permanently fixed to the frame.

[0020] In an embodiment, the frame further comprises an ISO 1161 certified comer fitting at each corner and wherein the corner fittings are positioned on the frame to meet the positional requirements specified in ISO 668. [0021] In an embodiment, the frame, the floor, the ceiling and the plurality of outer walls have a combined structural integrity sufficient to pass ISO 1496 stacking, lifting, restraint and racking tests.

[0022] In an embodiment, the frame comprises two longitudinal top members having a hollow rectangular cross-section of a first thickness and wherein the remaining frame members have a hollow square cross section of a thickness less than the first thickness.

[0023] In an embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a watertight seal and wherein the frame, the floor, the ceiling and the plurality of outer walls are fixed together with the watertight seal so as to pass an ISO 1496 weathertightness test.

[0024] In an embodiment, the frame comprises at least two transverse bottom members providing load transfer areas meeting the requirements for certification under ISO 668.

[0025] In an embodiment, the external dimensions of the apparatus as defined by the frame, the floor, the ceiling and the plurality of outer walls meet the requirements for certification under ISO 668.

[0026] In an embodiment, at least one outer wall comprises markings sufficient to meet the requirements for certification under ISO 6346.

[0027] In an embodiment, the building is a house or an industrial enclosure. [0028] A second aspect provides a building kit comprising a plurality of apparatuses in accordance with the first aspect. DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Figure 1 a top perspective view of an apparatus in a shipping container configuration in accordance with an embodiment.

[0030] Figure 2 is a bottom perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 1. [0031] Figure 3 is a top perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 1 in which a top portion of the apparatus is not shown to reveal inside of the apparatus.

[0032] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of region A of Figure 3.

[0033] Figure 5 is a side perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 1 in which an end portion of the apparatus is not shown to reveal inside of the apparatus. [0034] Figure 6 is an enlarged view of region B of Figure 5.

[0035] Figure 7 is a side perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 1 in which a side portion is not shown to reveal inside of the apparatus.

[0036] Figure 8 is a top perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 1 in a building fixture configuration. [0037] Figure 9 is a bottom perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 1 in the building fixture configuration.

[0038] Figure 10 is a top perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 1 in the building fixture configuration as used in an example operating environment.

[0039] Figures 11, 12 and 13 are perspective views of an embodiment of a building constructed from two apparatuses made in accordance with an embodiment. Figure 11 shows the building exterior; Figure 12 shows the building wherein an end portion of each apparatus is not shown to reveal inside of the building; and, Figure 13 is an enlarged view showing in detail the connections between the two apparatuses.

[0040] Figures 14a and 14b are perspective views of an embodiment of a building constructed from three apparatuses made in accordance with an embodiment. Figure 14a shows the building exterior; and, Figure 14b shows the building in which an end portion of each apparatus is not shown to reveal inside of the building.

[0041] Figures 15a and 15b are perspective views of an embodiment of a building constructed from five apparatuses made in accordance with an embodiment. Figure 15a shows the building exterior; and, Figure 15b shows the building in which an end portion of three apparatuses is not shown to reveal inside of the building.

[0042] Figure 16 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a multi-storey building constructed from six apparatuses made in accordance with an embodiment, wherein an end portion of two apparatuses is not shown to reveal inside of the building.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0043] Directional terms such as "top", "bottom", "side", "end", "upwards",

"downwards", "horizontally", "vertically", and "laterally" are used in the following description for the purpose of providing relative reference only, and are not intended to suggest any limitations on how any article is to be positioned during use, or to be mounted in an assembly or relative to an environment. Additionally, the term "couple" and variants of it such as "coupled", "couples", and "coupling" as used in this description are intended to include indirect and direct connections unless otherwise indicated. For example, if a first element is coupled to a second element, that coupling may be through a direct connection or through an indirect connection via other elements and connections.

[0044] Various embodiments described herein provide an apparatus that is convertible from an ISO standardized shipping container into a building fixture that is human habitable and/or suitable for storing materials. The apparatus generally comprises a parallelepiped frame, a plurality of outer walls fixed to the frame wherein at least one wall is removeably fixed to the frame, a floor and a ceiling fixed to the frame, and at least one inner wall fixed to the frame and adjacent to one of the outer walls that is removeably fixed to the frame. The frame, outer walls, floor and ceiling have properties which together form a shipping container that meets ISO certification standards, and the frame, floor, ceiling, inner wall and outer walls except the removeably fixed outer wall(s) have properties which together form a building fixture that is immediately suitable for or is convertible into a human habitable or material storable structure. The apparatus can be readily converted from an ISO compliant shipping container configuration into a building fixture configuration by removing the at least one removable outer wall, thereby exposing the inner wall.

[0045] The properties of the apparatus which contribute to meeting the ISO certification standard for shipping containers include: frame, outer wall, floor and ceiling dimensions that meet dimension requirements specified in ISO 668; a frame having corner fittings that meet cornering fitting requirements defined in ISO 1161; the outer walls, floor and ceiling each being water impermeable and fitted to the frame to define a water-tight enclosure in accordance with ISO standard ISO 1496. Further, the apparatus comprises markings including BIC codes that are placed and registered in a manner that comply with marking requirements specified in ISO 6346. In an embodiment, the apparatus meets the ISO certification requirements to be marine certified. That is, the apparatus meets the requirements to be certified for use in a marine environment, such as, when transported on a container ship. In an embodiment, such requirements are met when the apparatus meets the following ISO standards: ISO 668, ISO 1161, ISO 1496 and ISO 6346.

[0046] The properties of the apparatus which contribute to the apparatus forming a building fixture include the inner wall having one or more cut-outs, holes or apertures for receiving a building feature such as a door or a window. For example, the inner wall in some embodiments features a door frame in which a door can be mounted and/or a window frame in which a window can be mounted. In some embodiments, the inner wall includes a thermally insulated portion that meets human habitable building code standards for thermal insulation. Further, in some embodiments, the inner wall contains pre-installed electrical equipment suitable for use in E-house construction.

[0047] The apparatus when in the shipping container configuration has the necessary strength and structural integrity to withstand the loading forces applied to it during transport operations, such as, loading, unloading, stacking, racking, restraint, lifting and movement on a vehicle (e.g. ship, train, truck and the like). In some embodiments, the apparatus may not be transportable as an ISO certified shipping container when in the building fixture configuration. Stated differently, the apparatus may not have the structural integrity to withstand the loading forces applied to it during transport operations once the removable outer wall is removed. However, in the building fixture configuration, the apparatus may have sufficient structural integrity for the apparatus to withstand the typical loading forces applied to building fixtures. The inner wall may provide an external wall of the building fixture without having to be moved or relocated. In particular, removing the removable outer wall from in-front of the inner wall may be the only operation necessary to transition the apparatus into a human habitable or material storable building fixture configuration. It is to be understood that in one embodiment, the container includes only a single outer-inner wall pair. However, in some other embodiments, the container comprises a plurality of inner walls fixed to the frame such that each inner side of the container is formed by a different one of the inner walls. In this case, each inner wall is adjacent to a different one of the outer walls. As before, each outer wall is removable to transition the container into the building fixture configuration; however in this case, each inner wall is an external wall of the building. [0048] In view of the above, in some embodiments, only one inner wall may be present; however, in some other embodiments, each side of the apparatus may include an inner wall. In an embodiment, "side" is taken to include both the apparatus sides (i.e. the long sides) and the apparatus ends (i.e. the short sides). Furthermore, in some other embodiments, more than one but less than all sides may include both an inner wall and an outer wall. For example, two or three of the four sides may include an inner wall and an outer wall. In this case, transitioning the apparatus from the shipping container configuration to the building fixture configuration may include removing all outer walls, or may include only removing some outer walls, for example, only outer walls having an adjacent inner wall behind. In an embodiment, "adjacent" includes that the inner wall is spaced from the adjacent outer wall or that no spacing is present. Also, the inner and outer walls may be in parallel or the inner wall may not be parallel and may be at an angle to its adjacent outer wall. In an embodiment, both the inner wall and the outer wall is watertight, that is, the inner and outer walls form a watertight seal with the frame. [0049] A specific embodiment will now be described with reference to Figures 1 to 10. The following description will begin by describing the outside of an apparatus in accordance with an embodiment, following which the inside of the apparatus and use of the apparatus will be described.

[0050] Figures 1 and 2 show an apparatus2 having a rectangular prism form. In an embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, the apparatus 2 is an ISO certified shipping container because it conforms to the following ISO standards relating to shipping containers: ISO 668 - Classification, Dimensions, and Ratings; ISO 1161 - Corner Fittings; ISO 1496 - Specification and Testing; ISO 6346 -- Coding, Identification, and Marking. As such, the apparatus 2 may be marine certified. [0051] In an embodiment, the apparatus 2 includes a parallelepiped frame made up of frame members 4a to 41. The frame may be a skeletal frame. In an embodiment, the parallelepiped shape resembles that of a three dimensional rectangle, wherein all sides are either horizontal or vertical and, as such, the frame may be a rectangular parallelepiped frame. Specifically, the frame members 4a to 41 include a first pair of vertical corner members 4a and 4b at one end of the apparatus 2 and a second pair of vertical corner members 4c and 4d at the other end of the apparatus 2; a pair of top horizontal longitudinal members 4e and 4f, wherein each end of member 4e is fixed to a top portion of a different one of members 4a and 4d, and each end of member 4f is fixed to a top portion of a different one of members 4b and 4c; a pair of bottom horizontal longitudinal members 4g and 4h, wherein each end of member 4g is fixed to a bottom portion of a different one of members 4a and 4d, and each end of member 4h is fixed to a bottom portion of a different one of members 4b and 4c; a first pair of horizontal end members 4i and 4j, wherein each end of member 4i is fixed to the top portion of a different one of members 4a and 4b, and each end of member 4j is fixed to the bottom portion of a different one of members 4a and 4b; and, a second pair of horizontal end members 4k and 41, wherein each end of member 4k is fixed to the top portion of a different one of members 4c and 4d, and each end of member 41 is fixed to the bottom portion of a different one of members 4c and 4d. Also shown on Figures 1 and 2 are parallelepiped corner fittings 6a to 6h to which the members 4a to 41 are connected such that the members 4a to 41 are fixed to each other via the corner fittings 6a to 6h. For example, the member 4e is connected at one end to corner fitting 6a and at the other end to corner fitting 6e; corner fitting 6a is then connected to the top portion of member 4a; and, corner fitting 6e is connected to the top portion of member 4d. In this way, the member 4e is fixed to the member 4a via the corner fitting 6a and the member 4e is fixed to the member 4d via the corner fitting 6e. Accordingly, members 4a to 41 are fixed together indirectly, that is, via intermediary elements in the form of corner fittings 6a to 6e. However, it is to be understood that in some other embodiments, the members 4a to 41 may be connected together directly, that is, without any intermediate elements or corner fittings. [0052] In an embodiment, the members 4a to 41 and the comer fittings 6a to 6h are made of metal and maybe connected together as described above by welding or mechanical fastening (e.g. bolting, riveting, etc.). In an embodiment, the members 4a to 41 and the corner fittings 6a to 6h are made of steel. In an embodiment, the members 4a to 41 and the corner fittings 6a to 6h are made of structural steel elements of varying sizes and shapes which conform to an established specification or recognized national standard.

[0053] In an embodiment, each of corner fittings 6a to 6h includes at least one oval shaped aperture or opening. Each corner fitting 6a to 6h may include one such aperture on each of its three exposed surfaces, that is, on each surface which is not fixed to one of the frame members. In use, the apertures may be used by a twistlock device, such as a securing device, to hold onto the apparatus 2. Each of corner fittings 6a to 6h may conform to ISO 1161 Series 1 Freight Containers - Corner Fittings - Specification. In particular, each corner fitting 6a to 6h may have a position, shape, size, design, markings and strength to meet the requirements for certification under ISO 1161. As such, the apparatus 2 may be supported by only the bottom corner fittings, i.e. corner fittings 6b, 6d, 6h and 6f.

[0054] In an embodiment, the top horizontal longitudinal members 4e and 4f and the bottom horizontal longitudinal members 4g and 4h span the complete distance between each end (i.e. short side) of the apparatus 2. Stated differently, these longitudinal members are made of a single component rather than two or more components joined together. The member 4e and 4f may each provide a structural beam, wherein the member 4e is designed to allow a clear span between the members 4a and 4d and the member 4f is designed to allow a clear span between the members 4b and 4c.

[0055] In an embodiment, the frame further includes cross members 4m to 4q.

Each cross member 4m to 4q is positioned on the bottom of the apparatus 2 and has one end fixed to the member 4g and the other end fixed to the member 4h. Each cross member 4m to 4q is substantially perpendicular to, and in the same plane as, the members 4g and 4h. Also, the cross members 4m to 4q are equally spaced out along the bottom of the apparatus 2. In an embodiment, the cross members 4m to 4q reinforce the bottom of the apparatus 2. [0056] In an embodiment, the frame conforms precisely to ISO shipping container standards and dimensions, including the corner fittings 6a to 6h.As seen more particularly in Figure 1, in an embodiment, a top of the apparatus 2 is provided by a ceiling comprising a roof sheet 8. The roof sheet 8 dimensioned so as to fit flushly inside of the space defined by members 4e, 4f, 4i and 4k. In an embodiment, the roof sheet 8 is fixed to the members 4e, 4f, 4i and 4k so as to be watertight. In an embodiment, each edge of the roof sheet 8 is permanently fixed (e.g. by welded joints) to one of the members 4e, 4f, 4i and 4k. In this way, it is to be understood that the ceiling is fixed to the frame.

[0057] As seen more particularly in Figure 2, in an embodiment, a bottom of the apparatus 2 is provided by a floor comprising multiple floor panels 10. Each floor panel 10 is substantially rectangular in shape. Each floor panel 10 is positioned to fill the space between the members 4g and 4h and two of the members 4j, 41 and 4m to 4q. In an embodiment, the floor panels 10 are fixed to the members 4g, 4h, 4j, 41 and 4m to 4q so as to be watertight. In this way, it is to be understood that the floor is fixed to the frame. In an embodiment, the floor panels 10 may be connected to the members 4g, 4h, 4j and 41 by welded joints.

[0058] In another embodiment, the floor panels 10 may be removeably fixed to each other and the members 4g, 4h, 4j and 41.

[0059] As seen in Figures 1 and 2, in an embodiment, each outer side of the apparatus 2 is provided by an outer wall (also known as a curtain wall) comprising multiple outer wall panels or outer panels 12. For clarity, only some of the outer panels 12 are provided with a reference sign, but it is to be understood that each outer panel illustrated is a separate outer panel 12. It is also to be understood that a "side" of the apparatus 2 is taken to include both sides (i.e. long sides) and ends (i.e. short sides) of the apparatus 2. Each outer panel 12 is substantially rectangular in shape. Each outer panel 12 is orientated vertically (e.g. in a portrait orientation) such that its top short side is fixed to one of members 4e, 4f, 4i and 4k and its bottom short side is fixed to one of the members 4g, 4h, 4j and 41. Also, the long sides of each outer panel 12 are fixed to the long sides of a neighbouring outer panel 12, except each end outer panel 12, which has one of its long sides fixed to one of the members 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d. In an embodiment, the outer panels 12 are fixed to each other and the members 4a to 41 so as to be watertight. In this way, it is to be understood that the outer walls are fixed to the frame. The connection between the outer panels 12 and the members 4a to 41 is described in more detail later.

[0060] In an embodiment, the outer panels 12 may be sealed to each other and to the frame via a watertight seal. Specifically, a sealing material may be positioned in the joints between adjacent outer panels 12 and in the joints between the outer panels 12 and the frame members. Then, when the fasteners fixing the outer panels to each other and to the frame are tightened, the sealing material is compressed in the joints so as to create a watertight seal. In an embodiment, the sealing material may be rubber, such as 2mm thick neoprene. Alternatively, caulking may be used to seal the joints between neighboring outer panels 12. Accordingly, the apparatus 2 in the shipping container configuration contains a watertight seal which makes the apparatus 2 sufficiently watertight to meet the watertightness test under ISO 1496. Specifically, the ceiling and floor are welded to the frame to create a watertight seal and the outer panels are sealed to each other and to the frame as mentioned above to create a watertight seal.

[0061] As seen more particularly on Figure 1, a door 14 may be formed in one or more of the outer panels 12. In an embodiment, the outer panel 12 associated with the door 14 is formed with a door frame IS defining a door-shaped aperture. The door 14 may be coupled to the outer panel 12 via two or more hinges (not shown) such that it fills the door frame 15 and covers the aperture. The door frame 15 may be slightly smaller than the door 14 so that a seal can be provided along the edges of the door 14 to ensure that it is watertight. Furthermore, the door 14 may be provided with a handle 16 so that a person may open the door, for example, to gain access to the inside of the apparatus 2.

[0062] Figures 3 to 7 illustrate that behind the outer wall on each outer side of the apparatus 2 is an inner wall comprising multiple inner panels 20. For clarity, only some of the inner panels 20 are provided with a reference sign, but it is to be understood that each inner panel illustrated is a separate inner panel 20. As before, it is also to be understood that a "side" of the apparatus 2 is taken to include both sides (i.e. long sides) and ends (i.e. short sides) of the apparatus 2. Each inner panel 20 is substantially rectangular in shape. Each inner panel 20 is orientated vertically (e.g. in a portrait orientation) such that its top short side is fixed to one of members 4e, 4f, 4i and 4k and its bottom short side is fixed to one of the members 4g, 4h, 4j and 41. Also, the long sides of each inner panel 20 are fixed to the long sides of a neighbouring inner panel 20, except each end inner panel 20, which has one of its long sides fixed to one of the members 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d. In an embodiment, the inner panels 20 are fixed to each other and the members 4a to 41 so as to be watertight. In this way, it is to be understood that the inner walls are fixed to the frame. The connection between the inner panels 20 and the members 4a to 41 is described in more detail later.

[0063] In an embodiment, one or more inner panels 20 may include one or more holes or apertures formed therein for receiving a building feature, such as, a door or a window. For example, the inner panels 20 may include an aperture in which a door and a door frame, or a window and a window frame, may be fitted. In another embodiment, the inner panels 20 may include the building feature. For example, the inner panels 20 may include an aperture filled with a door 68 and a door frame 66, as will be described further below with reference to Figure 9. It is to be understood that other building features may be incorporated into the inner panels 20. Non-limiting examples of such building features are: an opening, a frame, a door, a window, a duct, an electrical device (e.g. wires, sockets, switches, control panels, thermostats, transformers, panel boards), a heating device, a ventilation device, an air-conditioning device, a fan, a radiator, pipe work or plumbing, a conduit, a cable tray, a grate, a louver, a flap, a steel caging or wire mesh. It is also to be understood that at least some building features may span across multiple inner panels 20. For example, a window may span across two or three separate inner panels 20 and, accordingly, each of the two or three inner panels 20 may include at an appropriately positioned and shaped aperture to receive its portion of the window.

[0064] As seen more particularly on Figure 4, in an embodiment, the inner panels

20 may include a thermally insulated portion including thermal insulation material 21. Such insulation may mitigate heat transfer through the inner panels 20. In an embodiment, each inner panel 20 may include two skins which sandwich the insulation material in-between them. For example, the skins may be made of steel and the inside skin may be thicker than the outside skin to provide more structure for supporting building furniture, such as shelves and picture frames. The insulation material may be a rigid polyurethane foam insulation or expanded polystyrene insulation. In an embodiment, the inner panel 20 may have an R-value of R-5 to R-8 (0.88m -K(W-in) to 1.41 m' K(W in)). The R-value is a measure of thermal resistance used in the building and construction industry. Under uniform conditions it is the ratio of the temperature difference across an insulator and the heat flux (heat transfer per unit area per unit time) through it.

[0065] It is to be understood that in some embodiments, the insulated portion of an inner panel 20 may cover the whole of the inner panel 20. However, in some other embodiments, the insulated portion may cover some but not all of the inner panel 20, for example, only a majority or only a minority may be filled. Further, it is to be understood that in another embodiment, the inner panels 20 may not include a thermally insulated portion having thermal insulation material 21 and, instead, the inner panels 20 may not mitigate heat transfer. For example, the inner panels 20 may comprise only a mesh wall, a cage wall, a chainlink wall or a wired wall. As such, may include a plurality of holes or apertures formed therethrough. In this way, ventilation into the apparatus 2 when in the building fixture configuration may be improved.

[0066] In an embodiment, each inner panel 20 includes an insulated portion such that it meets building codes. In another embodiment having cage or mesh walls as inner walls, the apparatus 2 still includes at least one inner wall which includes an insulted portion such that the at least one inner wall meets building codes.

[0067] In an embodiment, each outer panel 12 is adjacent to an opposing inner panel 20 such that a gap 20a is present between an inner surface of the outer panel 12 and an outer surface of the inner panel 20. In this way, the gap 20a is present between the outer wall and the inner wall. In an embodiment, the outer wall and the inner wall are substantially parallel to one another. It is to be understood that the size of the gap 20a may vary between different embodiments. For example, the gap 20a may vary between 10 mm and 100 mm. However, in another embodiment, no gap 20a may be present between the inner wall and the outer wall.

[0068] It is to be understood that the inner wall and its adjacent outer wall provide a double-layer wall of the apparatus, with the outer wall being an external wall of the apparatus 2 and the inner wall being an internal wall of the apparatus 2. Stated differently, the inner wall may be located behind, or inside of, the outer wall. Also, in another embodiment, the inner wall and the outer wall may not be in parallel with each other. For example, the inner wall may be at a slight angle to the outer wall, for example, less than 5 or 10 degrees. [0069] As seen more particularly on Figures 5 and 7, in an embodiment, the floor formed by floor panels 10 provides an external floor of the apparatus 2; however, an inner floor panel 22 is positioned above the floor panels 10 and is fixed to the frame and to the floor panels 10. Further, a plurality of spacer elements 23 may be positioned in- between the inner floor panel 22 and the floor panels 10 so as to maintain a spacing equal to or less than 600mm therebetween. In an embodiment, the spacer elements 23 are substantially oblong in cross-section and in shape. In an embodiment, the spacer elements 23 are orientated to be substantially in parallel with the cross members 4m to 4q. In an embodiment, each spacer element 23 is fixed on one side to the inner floor panel 22 and on an opposing side to one of the floor panels 10 so as to space apart the inner floor panel 22 and the floor panels 10. Furthermore, the inner floor panel 22 may be fixed to the cross members 4m to 4q and to the members 4g, 4h, 4j and 41 by, for example, fasteners such as rivets, as indicated by the dashed lines on Figure 5 and the solid lines on Figure 3, or by welding. In this way, it is to be understood that the inner floor panel 22 is fixed to the frame. In another embodiment, the inner floor panel 22 may be removeably fixed to the frame members, for example, by bolts. In an embodiment, the spacing 24 may be filled with an insulating material, in order to mitigate heat loss through the bottom of the apparatus 2. In an embodiment, the insulating material is expanding spray foam insulation of a phenolic, polyisocyanurate or polyurethane composition; or, a blanket formed from fiberglass, mineral fiber, plastic fiber or natural fiber. In another embodiment, the inner floor panel 22 may be made from a number of smaller inner floor panels which are welded together.

[0070] In an embodiment, the inner floor panel 22 includes a variety of different building features, in an analogous manner to as described above with reference to the inner wall panels 20. Non-limiting examples of such building features are: an opening, a duct, an electrical device (e.g. wires, sockets, switches, control panels, thermostats, transformers, panel boards), a heating device, a ventilation device, an air-conditioning device, a fan, a radiator, pipe work or plumbing, a conduit, a cable tray, a grate, a flap, a steel caging or wire mesh.

[0071] In the above description, various elements are "fixed" to each other. In an embodiment in which a first element is fixed to a second element, this may be taken to mean that the two elements are not moveable with respect to each other. However, the fixing may be removable and, as such, the first element may be removable from the second element. For example, the outer panels 12 and the inner panels 20 are fixed to the frame and, as such, the outer panels 12 and the inner panels 20 are not moveable with respect to the frame. However, the outer panels 12 and the inner panels 20 may be removeably fixed to the frame and, as such, the outer panels 12 and the inner panels 20 removable from the frame. In an embodiment, the removable fixing may be provided by fasteners, such as, screws or bolts.

[0072] Next will be described the manner in which the inner wall and outer wall are fixed to the frame in accordance with an embodiment.

[0073] As seen more particularly in Figure 4, in an embodiment, each outer panel

12 is formed with a folded portion 26 at each edge. The folded portion 26 may include two right angle folds such that a cross-section of the folded portion 26 resembles a "U" or a "C" shape. Alternatively, the folded portion 26 may include one right angle fold such that a cross-section of the folded portion 26 resembles an "L" shape. Furthermore, the part of the folded portion 26 which is in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the overall outer panel 12 may provide a fastening plate 28. In an embodiment, the fastening plate 28 is formed with a plurality of apertures 30. It is noted that whilst the fastening plate 28 is lined with many apertures 30, for clarity, only some of the apertures 30 are labeled. The outer panel 12 may be fixed to the member 4a by the fastening plate 28 and a plurality of fasteners (not shown) positioned to protrude through the apertures 30. Specifically, a coupling bar 32 may be sandwiched in-between the fastening plate 28 and the member 4a. In an embodiment, the coupling bar 32 includes a plurality of apertures (not shown) which are positioned to align with the apertures 30 on the fastening plate 28. In an embodiment, the fasteners may be bolts or screws. In any case, the coupling plate 32 may be fixed to the member 4a and the outer panel 12 may be fixed to the member 4a by fixing a fastener through each aperture 30 and a corresponding aperture on the coupling plate 32. In an embodiment, the apertures and the fasteners contain cooperating screw threads to ensure that the outer panel 12 remains securely fixed to the member 4a. Furthermore, since the fasteners may be removed in order to remove the outer panel from the member 4a, the outer panel 12 is removeably fastened to the member 4a.

[0074] In an embodiment, the above-described fixing between the outer panel 12 and the member 4a is identical to the fixings between the other outer panels 12 and the other frame members. Accordingly, each outer panel 12 is fixed to the frame by the above-described structures. Further, two adjacent outer panels 12 may be fastened together by their fastening plates 28. Specifically, the fastening plate 28 of one outer panel 12 may be aligned with the fastening plate 28 of a neighboring outer panel 12 such that the apertures 30 of the one outer panel 12 line-up with the apertures 30 of the neighboring outer panel 12. Fasteners (not shown) are then inserted through the lined-up apertures 30 in order to removeably fix the two outer panels together. The fasteners and the apertures 30 may have cooperating screw threads such that the outer panels 12 are securely fastened together. Alternatively, a bolt may be inserted through both apertures and then a nut used to hold the bolt in place and the two outer panels 12 together. Accordingly, each outer panel 12 is fixed to each neighboring outer panel 12 by the above-described structures. In an embodiment, the above-described mechanism for joining together neighboring outer panels 12 provides rigidity to the structure of the apparatus 2. For example, the mating fastening plates of adjacent outer panels 12 form ribs which provide added structural strength to the apparatus 2. Accordingly, the outer wall panels 12 and the mechanisms for joining them together and to the frame provides the apparatus 2 with sufficient structural integrity to meet ISO testing requirements, for example, to meet ISO marine testing requirements, such as those defined by ISO 668, ISO 1161 and ISO 1496. In an embodiment, one or more of the outer panels 12 include labels or markings in order to meet the requirements under ISO 6346. In an embodiment, the distance between apertures on the fastening plates 28 and on the coupling bars 32 is between 20 mm and 100 mm, for example, 75 mm. In another embodiment, one or more of the coupling bars 32 may be omitted and apertures may be formed directly in the frame members. In this way, fasteners may fix the fastening plates 28 directly to the frame members, instead of indirectly via a coupling bar 32. In an embodiment, neighboring outer panels 12 may be fixed directly to each other; however, in another embodiment, an intermediate element may be sandwiched between the two fastening plates 28 such that the outer panels are indirectly fixed together.

[0075] As seen more particularly in Figure 4, in an embodiment, each inner panel

20 is formed with a plug portion 36 along one of its long sides and the opposing long side is formed with a socket portion 38. Alternatively, one inner panel 20 may be formed with plug portions 36 on each long side and a neighbouring inner panel 20 may be formed with socket portions 38 on each long side. In use, the inner panels 20 are connected to each other to form the inner wall by inserting the plug portion 36 of one inner panel 20 into the socket portion 38 of another inner panel 20. In an embodiment, the plug portions 36 and socket portions 38 have cooperating shapes such that neighboring inner panels 20 fit flushly together. The cooperating shapes may vary between different embodiments and may include, for example, straight-edge portions, curved portions and combinations thereof. In an embodiment, regardless of their structure the cooperating shapes are arranged so that the inner panels 20 fit flushly together. An exception to this arrangement is at the junction or joint between the inner wall and the frame. For example, the inner panel 20 which is to be fixed to the frame member 4a has a plug portion 36 or socket portion 38 at one long edge, but a flat surface 40 at the other long edge. In use, the fiat surface 40 abuts the outer surface of the member 4a. Furthermore, an L-shaped bracket 42 then fits into the corner formed when the flat surface 40 abuts the member 4a. Each side of the "L" shape is lined with apertures 44, and cooperating apertures (not shown) are provided on the member 4a. Accordingly, the inner panel 20 and the bracket 42 may be lined-up with the member 4a and a first set of fasteners (not shown) may be inserted into one side of the "L" shape to connect the bracket 42 to the inner panel 20. It is to be understood that the inner panel 20 may include apertures which correspond with those of the bracket 42 so that the first set of fasteners may be inserted through the bracket 42 apertures and into the inner panel 20 apertures. However, alternatively, the first set of fasteners may be screwed straight into the inner panel 20, that is, the inner panel 20 may not include apertures for fasteners but the construction of the inner panels 20 may be such that the fasteners may penetrate into the inner panels 20 and remain gripped thereto. Also, a second set of fasteners (not shown) may be inserted into the other side of the "L" shape to connect the bracket 42 to the member 4a. Alternatively, the bracket 42 may be permanently fixed to the member 4a, for example, by welding. In this way, the inner panel 20 may be fixed to the member 4a.

[0076] According to the above-described structures neighboring inner panels 20 may be fixed to each other and the inner panels 20 may be fixed to the various frame members. In this way, the inner walls may be formed from the multiple inner panels 20 and the inner walls may be fixed to the frame. In another embodiment, brackets 42 may not be directly connected to the frame members and, instead, an intermediate element may be sandwiched in-between the brackets 42 and the frame members, for example, in an analogous manner to as described above with reference to the coupling bar 32.

[0077] As seen more particularly on Figure 6, in an embodiment, the roof sheet 8 is directly fixed to the frame members by welding. In this way, possible pathways for water ingress into the apparatus 2 are avoided because a watertight seal is formed by the welded joint. Additionally present are ceiling beams SO which span between the member 4e and the member 4f. Many ceiling beams 50 can be seen in Figure 6. The precise number of ceiling beams 50 may vary between different embodiments. In some embodiments, each ceiling beam 50 may be parallel to other ceiling beams 50 and to members 4i and 4k. Each ceiling beam SO may be permanently fixed (e.g. by welding) at each end to a different one of members 4e and 4f. Additionally, a top of each ceiling beam 50 may be permanently fixed (e.g. by welding) to the roof sheet 8. In an embodiment, each ceiling beam SO may be constructed from two elongated members which are fixed together. In an embodiment, apertures 52 are present in each elongated member and are used for plug welds to weld the two elongated members together to form ceiling beam 50. In an embodiment, the ceiling beams provide additional strength to the ceiling of the apparatus 2 when in the building fixture configuration so that the apparatus 2 can withstand snow loading and the weight of machinery, such as, air-conditioning machinery.

[0078] In an embodiment, the ceiling may be removeably fixed to the frame.

[0079] In an embodiment, the apparatus 2 as described above may be transported by various different transportation vehicles, such as, ships, trains and trucks. Due to the structure of the apparatus 2 as defined by the outer wall (provided by outer panels 12), the frame (provided by members 4a to 4q), the floor (provided by floor panels 10) and the ceiling (provided by roof sheet 8) the apparatus 2 possesses the necessary strength to be picked up by container hoisting equipment, positioned into a transport vehicle or container storage yard and stacked with other apparatuses 2. Furthermore, the door 14 provides a means by which a person may enter the apparatus 2. For example, such a facility may be necessary when transporting the apparatus 2 across international borders so that customs officials can inspect the contents of the apparatus 2. Accordingly, when apparatus 2 in the configuration as described above, the apparatus 2 is considered to be in a shipping container configuration.

[0080] Next will be described the process by which the apparatus 2 may be transitioned from the shipping container configuration into a building fixture configuration. [0081] Figures 8 and 9 depict the apparatus 2 in the building fixture configuration in accordance with an embodiment. Specifically, in order to transition the apparatus 2 from the shipping container configuration into the building fixture configuration, the outer panels 12 are removed. As mentioned above, the outer panels 12 are removeably fixed to both each other and to the frame members, for example, by various fasteners. Accordingly, these fixings may be removed and the outer panels 12 may be detached or removed from the apparatus 2. In particular, the fasteners connecting neighboring outer panels 12 together may be removed, and the fasteners connecting each outer panel 12 to its adjacent frame members may be removed. Once the outer panels 12 are removed, the inner panels 20 behind become the external walls of the building formed by the apparatus 2 in the building fixture configuration. In this way, the outer walls are removed so as the transition the inner walls of the apparatus 2 into external walls of the building. This process does not require any repositioning of the inner walls because they are already in position and fixed to the apparatus 2 frame. It is to be understood that the outer panels 12 may be removed by a single person and using only simple tools, for example, a spanner for removing bolts or a screw driver for removing screws.

[0082] As seen more particularly on Figure 8, in an embodiment, three rectangular shaped apertures 60, 62 and 64 are formed in the inner wall at one side of the apparatus 2. The apertures 60 and 62 span across two inner panels 20, whereas the aperture 64 is formed in only one inner panel 20. The apertures 60 to 64 may be used for various building features, as will be described below. Additionally, as seen more particularly on Figure 9, an opposing inner side of the apparatus 2 is formed with a door frame 66 into which is coupled a door 68. Furthermore, the door 68 includes a window and window frame 70. In an embodiment, the door 68 is coupled to the door frame 66 via one or more hinges (not shown) so that the door 68 may be opened to permit access inside the apparatus 2 when it is in its building fixture configuration. [0083] It is to be understood that the embodiments of Figures 8 and 9 are provided merely as examples and in some other embodiments, apertures of different size, shape or location may be formed in various inner panels 20. In this way, the inner panels may be different depending on the type of building that the apparatus 2 is to be used as when in the building fixture configuration. For example, Figure 10 illustrates an example building environment in which the apparatus 2 is to be used, wherein the top of the apparatus is not shown in Figure 10 in order to reveal the inside of the apparatus 2.

[0084] As seen on Figure 10, the apparatus 2 is to be used as an industrial enclosure for containing various different types of industrial equipment. For example, inside the apparatus are various motor control center (MCC) units 72, various generator units 73, various light fixtures 74, a storage cabinet 76, and a screen 78. Attached to an outer side of the apparatus 2 are ducts 80. It is to be understood that the ducts 80 fit into apertures which are formed in the inner panels 20. Also, formed in the inner panels 20 are openings 82 for providing access to industrial machinery located inside the apparatus 2. Each bottom corner of the apparatus 2 has been positioned on a stand or support 84 such that the apparatus 2 is held off of the ground. Accordingly, a stair case 68 is positioned outside the door 68 such that a human operator can enter the apparatus 2 through the door 68. Another door (not shown) is provided in another inner wall of the apparatus 2 at the top of a second stair case 88.

[0085] It is to be understood that various embodiments may be used as a transport or shipping container which is ISO certified when the apparatus 2 is in its shipping container configuration. In particular, the apparatus 2 may be ISO certified by virtue of its outer walls (provided by outer panels 12), the frame (provided by members 4a to 4q), the floor (provided by floor panels 10) and the ceiling (provided by roof sheet 8). Additionally, it is these aspects of the apparatus 2 which provide the structural integrity of the apparatus 2 during transportation. For example, the apparatus 2 may collapse if one or more outer panels 12 are removed and the apparatus 2 is then picked up by a crane or stacked with other apparatuses 2. The inner walls (provided by inner panels 20) may not contribute to ISO certification during transport because they are inside the apparatus 2 when it is in the shipping container configuration. The inner walls (provided by inner panels 20) may not contribute to structural integrity during transport because they are in substantially the same position as the outer walls (provided by outer panels 12) and the outer walls are stronger than the inner walls.

[0086] As described above, the apparatus 2 may be transitioned into a building fixture configuration by removing the outer walls (provided by outer panels 12). Accordingly, it is the inner walls (provided by inner panels 20), the frame (provided by members 4a to 4q), the floor (provided by floor panels 10) and the ceiling (provided by roof sheet 8) which provide the structural integrity of the apparatus 2 after transportation and once the apparatus 2 has been transitioned into a building. In an embodiment, the ceiling (provided by roof sheet 8) is additionally removable from the frame and, in this case, the structural integrity of the building is not dependent on the ceiling (provided by the roof sheet 8). In this way, the outer walls (provided by outer panels 12) may not contribute to the structural integrity of the building.

[0087] In an embodiment, "structural integrity" may be considered to mean that the apparatus 2 has sufficient strength and stability to stand alone and be used for its intended purpose, for example, use in transportation or use as a building. Further, structural integrity may be taken to mean that the apparatus 2 has the ability to hold together under a load, including its own weight, resisting breakage or bending, when performing its intended purpose, for example, use in transportation or use as a building.

[0088] In an embodiment, the design of the inner walls may vary between different versions of the apparatus 2; however, the design of the outer walls, the frame, the ceiling and the floor remains the same so that the apparatus 2 remains ISO certified. Therefore, the location, size, position, number and type of various building features in the inner walls and the inner floor may vary between different apparatuses 2 but each apparatus 2 may remain ISO certified for transportation. In this way, ease of transport of the apparatus 2 is maintained by the shipping container configuration without restricting variability of building design provided by the building fixture configuration. For example, a non-limiting list of buildings which may be provided by the apparatus 2 in the building fixture configuration are: a house, an industrial enclosure, an office space, an emergency shelter, a recreation room, a storage space and a barracks. The location, size, position, number and type of various building features may be unique to each different building type. However, each of these building types may be transitioned from a the same type of ISO certified shipping container. [0089] In an embodiment, when the apparatus 2 is in the transportation configuration, the apparatus 2 meets ISO shipping container standards irrespective of the inner walls (provided by inner panels 20), that is, the inner walls are not relevant to the ISO certification. For example, ISO certification may be based only on the outer walls (provided by outer panels 12), the frame (provided by members 4a to 4q), the floor (provided by floor panels 10) and the ceiling (provided by roof sheet 8). Specifically, features of the outer walls (provided by outer panels 12), the frame (provided by members 4a to 4q), the floor (provided by floor panels 10) and the ceiling (provided by roof sheet 8) ensure that the apparatus 2, when in the shipping container configuration, is an ISO certified shipping container or conforms to various ISO standards, such as, for example, ISO 668 - Classification, Dimensions, and Ratings; ISO 1161 - Corner Fittings; ISO 1496 - Specification and Testing; ISO 6346 - Coding, Identification, and Marking. Specifically, these features may include the external dimensions of the apparatus 2 when in the shipping container configuration, a weight of the apparatus 2 when in the shipping container configuration, the size and position of the corner fittings 6a to 6h, and affixation of appropriate required markings and labels on the outer walls.

[0090] Additionally, in an embodiment, the apparatus 2 in the shipping container configuration has the necessary structural integrity to pass the structural tests necessary for ISO certification. This structural integrity is provided by features of the frame. In particular, as shown in Figure 5, the frame members have a hollow cross-sectional shape having a height, width and thickness selected in order to provide sufficient strength for certification. For example, the top longitudinal members 4e and 4f may have a hollow rectangular shape having a height of 300mm, a width of 150mm and a thickness of 16mm. Additionally, the other frame members may have a hollow square shape having a height of 150mm, a width of 150mm and a thickness of 6mm. Accordingly, the members 4e and 4f may have a different shaped cross-section and an increased thickness to provide additional strength so that the apparatus 2 may pass the necessary ISO tests.

[0091] In an embodiment, when the apparatus 2 is in its building fixture configuration, the apparatus 2 may meet various building codes or standards irrespective of the outer walls (provided by outer panels 12), that is, the outer walls are not relevant to the building standards. For example, building standard certification may be based only on the inner walls (provided by inner panels 20), the frame (provided by members 4a to 4q), the floor (provided by floor panels 10) and the ceiling (provided by roof sheet 8). In an embodiment, the building codes or standards may include: North American building codes relevant to a particular province, state, or municipality (for example, the British Columbia Building Code and/or the Vancouver Building Bylaws), or a code relating to a recognized certification body such as the Canadian Welding Bureau or the American Welding Society concerning the welding of steel structures (for example, CSA A660). In an embodiment, the ceiling may be removable and so may not contribute to the structural integrity of the building or to the building code certification. In an embodiment, a separate roof section may be fixed to the frame, for example, at corner fittings 6a, 6c, 6e and 6g.

[0092] In view of the above, aspects of the inner walls ensure that the apparatus 2, when in the building fixture configuration, does not meet ISO shipping container standards, for example, ISO standards ISO 668 - Classification, Dimensions, and Ratings; ISO 1161 - Comer Fittings; ISO 1496 - Specification and Testing; ISO 6346 - Coding, Identification, and Marking. Specifically, these aspects may include an absence of required markings and labels, external dimensions of the apparatus 2 not matching those stipulated for certification, external wall (i.e. inner wall panels 20) corner fitting locations not matching those stipulated for certification, and an absence of features which were present during the certification testing of the apparatus 2 (e.g. the outer wall panels 12) which thereby negates the certification. In an embodiment, ISO certification is not possible in the building fixture configuration because the apparatus 2 will not have been tested and proved to pass the requirements laid out by ISO (e.g. stacking, racking, lifting, etc.) when it is in the building fixture configuration.

[0093] An embodiment may relate to electronic houses or E-houses. In E-houses electrical equipment may be pre-installed into building elements, such as floors or walls. This has the advantage of reducing overall construction costs by reducing the number of field hours necessary for equipment installation and setup at a building construction site. Also, more efficient factory assembly methods may be used instead of less efficient assembly methods which are used at the building construction site. However, once buildings reach a certain size, transportation can become a problem. For example, many jurisdictions have size limits for what size objects can be transported by road. Also, rail transportation is limited by the size and length of a rail car. Further, marine shipping can become more costly when exceeding the size of a standard shipping container. Accordingly, the most cost effective transportation method can be to use an ISO certified shipping container. Specifically, a majority of jurisdictions permit an ISO certified shipping container to travel by road, an ISO certified shipping container fits on a rail car, and using an ISO certified shipping container is the most cost effective method of marine transport.

[0094] According to the above-described embodiments, large E-houses may be broken up into standard shipping container sized pieces. These pieces may all be certified under the same ISO certification and transported in their shipping container configurations from the E-house factory to the building construction site. In this way, transportation by road, rail or shipping is simplified.

[0095] A challenge of using a fully ISO certified shipping container is that the certification rules are very strict. Therefore, once a shipping container design is ISO certified, no changes from the design are permitted without requiring additional certification which can be time-consuming and expensive. Therefore, any change to the design can result in loss of certification. Further, it may be cost prohibitive to certify each individual piece of the E-house. Also, a functional E-house product may require that various building features (e.g. walls, wall openings and doors) are specific to suit each end user's requirement. This need for design flexibility is at odds with the fact that designs cannot change without losing ISO certification. The apparatus 2 of the above- described embodiments may provide a solution to this problem in that all apparatuses may be the same whilst in their shipping container configuration and, as such, all may be covered by the same ISO certification. On the other hand, each apparatus may have a different design of inner walls and building features and provide a different building design when transitioned into the building fixture configuration.

[0096] It is to be understood that the top longitudinal frame member 4e spans the complete distance between corner frame members 4a and 4d and the top longitudinal frame member 4f spans the complete distance between corner frame members 4b and 4c. In this way, roof loads exerted downwards onto the frame members 4e and 4f are transferred to the frame members 4a to 4d. For example, snow loads generated by snow which has settled onto the top of the apparatus 2 are transferred to the frame members 4a to 4d. Additionally, similar loads exerted downwards onto frame members 4i and 4k are also transferred to the frame members 4a to 4d. In this way, structural integrity of the apparatus 2 is maintained. [0097] In an embodiment, one or more of the inner walls of the apparatus 2 may be removable. Specifically, as described above with reference to Figure 4, the inner wall (provided by inner panels 20) on each inner side of the apparatus 2 is fixed to the frame members 4a to 41 via brackets 42. The brackets 42 are fixed to the inner panels 20 by fasteners (for example, bolts or screws) and the brackets 42 are fixed to the frame members 4a to 41 by fasteners (for example, bolts or screws) or by welding. Therefore, the inner panels 20 may be removed from the frame members 4a to 41 by removing either or both sets of fasteners. In this way, the inner walls are removeably fixed to the frame and, as such, the inner walls may be removed from the frame. It is to be understood that the inner panels 20 may be removed from inside the apparatus because the brackets 42 are accessible from inside the apparatus 2.

[0098] In an embodiment, one or more inner sides of the apparatus 2 may be removed permanently or temporarily. For example, when the apparatus 2 is in its building fixture configuration, an inner side may be removed in order to improve access to the inside of the building. In another example, one or more inner sides may be removed in order that the apparatus may perform its building function, for example, the building may be a hunting shelter and so one side may be removed in order that a hunter can position themselves inside the building but still have an unobstructed view of wildlife to be hunted. [0099] In another embodiment, a single building may be provided by more than one apparatus 2. For example, the building may comprise two apparatuses positioned side-by-side. The building may be constructed as follows. Figures 11 to 13 depict the final building in which both apparatuses are in the building fixture configuration.

[00100] As seen in Figure 11, a building 100 is made from a first apparatus 102 and a second apparatus 104. During construction of the building 100, the first apparatus 102, in its shipping container configuration, may be transported into position by suitable machinery, such as a crane. Once located in position, the outer walls of the first apparatus 102 may be removed as described above, for example, its outer panels may be unbolted or unscrewed from its frame members. In this way, the first apparatus 102 may be transitioned into the building fixture configuration.

[00101] As seen more particularly on Figure 12, the first apparatus 102 may be constructed without an inner wall on one of its long sides. Accordingly, a side of the first apparatus 102 may have an outer wall but no inner wall. Alternatively, an inner wall may be initially present but it may then be removed as described above. In any case, one of the long sides of the first apparatus 102 is open. Next, the machinery may position the second apparatus 104 against the first apparatus 102. It is to be understood that the second apparatus 104 is positioned against the open side of the first apparatus 102. Next, the outer walls of the second apparatus 104 may be removed by unscrewing or unbolting its outer panels from its frame members. In this way, the second apparatus 104 may be transitioned into the building fixture configuration.

[00102] It is to be understood that the outer walls of the second apparatus 104 which are not against the first apparatus 102 may be removed from outside the second apparatus 104; however, the outer wall of the second apparatus 104 which is against the open side of first apparatus 102 may be removed from inside the first apparatus 102.

[00103] The second apparatus 104 may be constructed without an inner wall on its long side which is against the first apparatus 102. Accordingly, a side of the second apparatus 104 may have an outer wall but no inner wall. Alternatively, the inner wall of the second apparatus 104 may be initially present but it may then be removed as described above. In any case, one of the long sides of the second apparatus 104 is open and it is arranged against the open side of the first apparatus 102. Accordingly, as seen more particularly on Figure 12, one large enclosure is provided by the insides of both the first and second apparatuses. [00104] It is to be understood that the first and second apparatuses may be fixed together such that the enclosure formed is watertight. For example, the corner fittings at the open side of the first apparatus may be attached to the corner fittings at the open side of the second apparatus. The attachment may be direct or indirect, that is, via one or more intermediate elements. Figure 13 depicts an example joint between the first and second apparatuses. Specifically, the corner fitting 6c of the first apparatus 102 is fixed to the corner fitting 6a of the second apparatus 104 by a clamp 106. In an embodiment, the claim 106 grips each of the corner fittings 6a and 6c via an oval aperture on each fitting. Additionally, the corner fitting 6d of the first apparatus 102 is fixed to the corner fitting 6b of the second apparatus 104 by a clamp 108. In an embodiment, the claim 108 grips each of the corner fittings 6d and 6b via an oval aperture on each fitting. It is to be understood that additional clamps are also used to fix together the corner fittings 6g and 6h of the first apparatus 102 with the corner fittings 6e and 6f of the second apparatus 104. In this way, the first apparatus 102 is fixed to the second apparatus 104 to form the building 100.

[00105] In an embodiment, the building 100 is insulated at the seams between adjacent apparatuses, for example, the seam between member 4f of apparatus 102 and the member 4e of apparatus 104. The insulation may include spray foam and backer rod. Additionally, the seams may be sealed, for example, with caulking. Further, a bolt plate may be bolted over the inside seams to hide the seam from persons inside the building 100 and to provide additional structure by clamping the different apparatuses 102, 104 of the building 100 together. Furthermore, instead of a bolt-plate, a field-welded plate may be provided along an outside seam to avoid the addition of any holes in the ceiling. In this way, the chance of water ingress into the apparatus 2 is reduced. For example, the seam between member 4f of apparatus 102 and the member 4e of apparatus 104 may first be filled with backer rod and then spray foam. Next, a bolt plate may be bolted to the inside surfaces of both frame members 4f and 4e and a field-welded plate may be welded to the outside surfaces of both frame members 4f and 4e. Additionally, the seam may be sealed further by caulking. Further, the seam between frame member 4b of apparatus 102 and frame member 4a of apparatus 104 and the seam between frame member 4c of apparatus 102 and frame members 4d of apparatus 104 may be treated in the same manner.

[00106] It is to be understood that in some other embodiments, more than two apparatuses may be combined together to form a single building. Also, adjacent apparatuses may be fixed together along their long sides (as described above) or along their short sides. Accordingly, a footprint of the building may be customized depending on its intended use. For example, the footprint shape could be generally elongate, square, L-shaped or any combination thereof. Of course, in order to provide different shapes of building, various inner walls may be absent or removed as required. In an embodiment, the apparatuses are configured such that both inner and outer walls are not present at the sides at which the apparatuses join together. However, in another embodiment, an inner wall having a door may be present in order to separate one part of the building from another part of the building, i.e. to form multiple rooms in the building. [00107] Figures 14a and 14b depict a building 110 constructed from three apparatuses 112, 114 and 116 fixed together in a side-by-side formation. Figures 1 Sa and 15b depict a building 120 constructed from five apparatuses 122, 124, 126, 128 and 130. The building 120 includes a first portion provided by the apparatuses 122, 124 and 126 fixed together in a side-by-side formation, similar to that of Figures 14a and 14b. The building 120 includes a second portion provided by the apparatuses 128 and 130 fixed together in a side-by-side formation, similar to that of Figures 11 to 13. The first and second portions are then fixed together in an end-to-end formation.

[00108] In an embodiment, different apparatuses may be stacked on top of each other in order to form a multi-level or multi-storey building. In some of the above- described embodiments, the roof panel 8 and the ceiling beams 50 are removeably fixed to the frame such that the ceiling is removable. Also, in some of the above-described embodiments, the floor panels 10, the separators 23 and the inner floor panel 22 are removeably fixed to the frame such that the floor is removable. Accordingly, in a multistorey building either or both of the floor and ceiling can be removed from stacked apparatuses. Figure 16 depicts an example multi-story building 140 formed from six apparatuses 142 to 152. Specifically, a top storey is formed from apparatuses 142 and 144, and a bottom storey is formed from apparatuses 146, 148, 150 (obscured from view in Figure 16, but understood to be directly underneath apparatus 142) and 152. In an embodiment, the ceiling (provided by the roof sheet and ceiling beams) of apparatuses 150 and 152 is removed whilst the floor (provided by the floor panels, the separators and the inner floor panel) of apparatuses 142 and 144 remain. Additionally, one or more of the apparatuses 142, 144, 150 and 152 may include stairs or landings which adhere to building codes, for example, in terms of rise and run dimensions, guard rails and hand rails heights. The stairs may be used by occupants of the building 140 to travel between the different storeys. For example, the stairs and landings may be external features of the building and, as such, be fixable to an exterior of the apparatuses. Additionally, doors may be provided in the inner walls of the apparatuses so that the top and bottom of the stairs can be accessed from inside the building. It is to be understood that the stairs and landings may be similar to the stair cases 86 and 88 of Figure 10.

[00109] In another embodiment, equipment may be positioned on an external surface of the ceiling of an apparatus. For example, the equipment may include part of an HVAC system or electric power generation system. Accordingly, the roof panel and the ceiling beams together with their fixtures to the frame possess the necessary structural integrity to support the weight of such equipment.

[00110] In the above-described embodiments, the outer walls (provided by outer panels 12) are removed in order to transition the apparatus 2 from the shipping container configuration to the building fixture configuration. However, it is to be understood that in some embodiments, one or more of the outer walls may remain when the apparatus 2 is in the building fixture configuration. For example, an outer wall may remain in order to provide additional weatherproofing or insulation. Also, an outer wall may remain in order to increase a structural integrity of the building, for example, in a conflict zone or in an area prone to earthquakes, typhoons, hurricanes or tornadoes.

[00111] In the above-described embodiment, the apparatus 2 includes an inner wall and an outer wall on each side (both long and short). Accordingly, transitioning the apparatus 2 from the shipping container configuration to the building fixture configuration involves removing each outer wall to expose each inner wall as an external building wall. It is also described above that the apparatus 2 may include an outer wall on each side, but an inner wall may not be provided on at least one side. In this case, transitioning the apparatus 2 from the shipping container configuration to the building fixture configuration may involve removing each outer wall such that at least one side of the building is open. In a further embodiment, the apparatus 2 may include only outer walls, that is, no inner walls may be provided. In this case, transitioning the apparatus 2 from the shipping container configuration to the building fixture configuration may involve removing each outer wall such that all sides of the building are open. For example, such a configuration may be used when a single building is constructed from nine apparatuses 2 arranged horizontally in three columns and three rows, and the apparatus 2 with only open sides provides the central apparatus 2. For completeness, it is noted that each corner apparatus 2 would have two open sides and each other apparatus 2 would have three open sides. It is noted that where an inner wall is not provided, the inner panels 20 making up that wall, and the brackets 42 for fixing those inner panels 20 to the frame are omitted.

[00112] In the above-described embodiments, the various sides, the top and the bottom of the apparatus 2 are provided by different elements. For example, the sides (both long and short) of the apparatus are formed by the inner walls (provided by inner panels 20) and the outer walls (provided by outer panels 12); the bottom of the apparatus is formed by the floor (provided by floor panels 10) and the top of the apparatus is formed by the ceiling (provided by roof sheet 8). It is to be understood that the different elements completely cover the various sides, top and bottom of the apparatus 2 such that the inside of the apparatus is completely enclosed. Additionally, the various sides, top and bottom of the apparatus may be sealed so that the apparatus 2 is watertight. The apparatus 2 may be sealed and watertight when in the shipping container configuration and in the building fixture configuration.

[00113] In an embodiment, example dimensions and materials of the various apparatus 2 elements may be as follows. It is to be understood that these dimensions and materials are provided merely by way of example and, in different embodiments, at least one dimension or material may vary. The frame members 4e, 4f may be 6" (152mm) wide by 12" (305mm) high by 38.8' (11.8m) long. The frame members 4g and 4h may be 6" (152mm) wide by 8" (203mm) high by 38.8' (11.8m) long. The frame members 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d may be 6" (152mm) wide by 6" (152mm) high by 8.7' (2.65m) long. The frame members 4i, 4j, 4k and 41 may be 6" (152mm) wide by 8" (203mm) high by 6.9' (2.10m) long. The frame members 4m to 4q may be 4" (102mm) wide by 8" (203mm) high by 6.8' (2.07m) long. Each corner fitting 6a to 6h may be 6.4" (163mm) wide by 4.6" (117mm) high by 7" (178mm) long. Each frame member and fitting may be made from steel (structural or cast) meeting an established specification or recognized national standard, such as, ASTM A500 Gr. B in the case of rectangular hollow structural steel sections . Each outer panel 12 may be 24.4" (620mm) wide by 92.9" high (2.36m) by 1.2" (30.4mm) deep and made from steel sheet or plate meeting an established specification or recognized national standard, such as, ASTM A568 SS 33. Each inner panel 20 may be 39.4" (1.00m) wide by 93.3" (2.34m) high by 2" (50.8mm) deep and made from steel sheet or plate meeting an established specification or recognized national standard, such as, ASTM A568 SS 33. The roof sheet 8 may be 85" (2.16m) wide by 2" (50.8mm) high by 13' (3.96m) long and made from steel sheet or plate meeting an established specification or recognized national standard, such as, ASTM A568 SS 33. In an embodiment, the steel sheet is made from a series of smaller steel sheets which are welded together. Each floor panel 10 may be 82" (2.08m) wide by 3/16" (4.76mm) thick by 93" (2.36m) long and made from steel sheet or plate meeting an established specification or recognized national standard, such as, ASTM AS68 SS 33. In an embodiment, each outer panel 12 may be sized so that it fits though a standard doorway, wherein a standard doorway may be 80" (2.03m) high by 36" (0.91m) wide. In an embodiment, each outer panel 12 may be manufactured so as to be light enough to be handled by one person. For example, each outer panel 12 may be less than 30 kg, such as, 25 kg ± 2.5 kg, or 27.18 kg. In this way transitioning the apparatus 2 from the shipping container configuration to the building fixture configuration may be performed by one person.

[00114] In an embodiment, in accordance with ISO 668 Series 1 Freight Containers - Classification, Dimensions, the external dimensions and mass of the apparatus 2 when in the shipping container configuration are as stated in any one of the rows in the following table.

[00115] However, it is to be understood that in some embodiments, the height is greater than 9'6" (2896mm) and, in some cases, may be up to 12'6" (3810mm). In an embodiment, the corner fittings 6a to 6h are positioned in specific locations in accordance with ISO 668, Annex A.

[00116] In accordance with ISO 668, Annex B, in an embodiment, the apparatus 2 is provided with load transfer areas on the bottom of the apparatus 2. Specifically, the load transfer areas may be provided by the bottom transverse frame members 41 and 4j. Also, the load transfer areas may include some or all of the cross members 4m to 4q (which may also be referred to as bottom transverse frame members). The load transfer areas are the portions of the apparatus 2 which transfer load to or from longitudinal members of a carrying vehicle, such as, a truck, a train or a ship, when the apparatus is being carried thereby. The apparatus 2 has the necessary structural integrity to be supported only by the load transfer areas. In an embodiment, a pair of end load transfer areas are located on the underside of each end of the apparatus 2 and each pair is strong enough to transfer loads of not less than half of the rated maximum gross mass of the apparatus 2. In an embodiment, one pair of end load transfer areas is provided by frame member 4j and the other pair of end load transfer areas is provided by frame member 41. In an embodiment, at least two pairs of intermediate load transfer areas are located on the underside of the apparatus 2 at points in-between the two ends. Each pair of intermediate load transfer areas is strong enough to transfer loads of not less than l.S times the maximum gross mass divided by the number of pairs of intermediate load transfer areas. In an embodiment, one pair of intermediate load transfer areas is provided by cross member 4n and another pair of intermediate load transfer areas is provided by cross member 4p. However, in another embodiment other cross members may provide alternative or additional pairs of intermediate load transfer areas. In an embodiment, the end load transfer areas and the intermediate load transfer areas may be approximately equally spaced along the length of the bottom of the apparatus 2. Further, a spacing between each of the frame members 4j and 41 and the nearest pair of intermediate load transfer areas may be between 66 15/16" (1700 mm) and 78 ¾" (2000 mm) or between 39 3/8" (1000 mm) and 78 ¾" (2000 mm]). In an embodiment, each load transfer area (e.g. frame members 4j, 41 and 4m to 4q) may have a longitudinal dimension of at least 1" (25 mm). In an embodiment, a bottom face of each load transfer area is 0.5" (12.7mm) above a bottom face of the corner fittings 6b, 6d, 6f and 6h.

[00117] In an embodiment, the lower faces of the load transfer areas are positioned in a plane located 0.5" (12.7mm) above the plane of the bottom faces of the corner fittings 6b, 6d, 6f and 6h. Apart from the bottom corner fittings 6b, 6d, 6f and 6h and the frame members 4g and 4h, no part of the apparatus 2 projects below the plane of the load transfer areas.

[00118] In an embodiment, the apparatus 2 when in the shipping container configuration may fall under the category of "specialized cargo container" because it is not considered to be for the transfer of general cargo and has electrical equipment installed inside. Accordingly to this category, nothing is loose inside the apparatus 2 when it is in the shipping container configuration, that is, all equipment, such as electrical equipment, is fixed to the frame, floor, wall or ceiling. As a result of being categorized as a "specialized cargo container" certain ISO certification tests may be waived and the apparatus 2 may be considered ISO certified if it can withstand only the stacking, racking, restraint, lifting and weathertightness tests.

[00119] In an embodiment, the apparatus 2 when in the shipping container configuration must pass the following tests to be considered marine certified under ISO 1496 Series 1 Freight Containers - Specification and Testing. Also shown in the table are the tests which may be waived on account of the apparatus 2 falling under the category of "specialized cargo container".

Table 1.1 -ISO 1496 Tests

[00120] As stated above, the corner fittings 6a to 6h may be certified in accordance with ISO 1161 Series 1 Freight Containers - Corner Fittings Specification. Accordingly, the upper faces of the top corner fittings 6a, 6c, 6e and 6g protrude above the top of the frame members and roof panel by a minimum of 6mm.

[00121] In an embodiment, the apparatus 2 bears all required identification marks in order to meet the requirements for certification under ISO 6346 Freight Containers - Coding, Identification and Marking. Specifically, the identification marks may include: an owner code, an equipment category identifier, a serial number and a check digit. Additionally, the identification marks may include: size and type codes, maximum gross and tare masses, and a height mark.

[00122] In accordance with the above-described embodiments, the apparatus 2 when in the shipping container configuration may be certified as an ISO shipping container. Specifically, it may be certified as being a marine certified ISO shipping container. As such, the apparatus 2 when in the shipping container configuration may comply with various aspects of the following four ISO standards: ISO 668, ISO 1161, ISO 1496 and ISO 6346. In particular, the external dimensions as defined by the frame, the outer walls, the ceiling and the floor may meet the requirements to be certified under ISO 668. Additionally, all features of the apparatus 2 may meet the mass requirements to be certified under ISO 668. Additionally, the structural integrity of the apparatus 2 as provided by the frame, the outer walls, the ceiling and the floor, and the joints between these elements, may pass the necessary tests to be certified under ISO 1496, for example, the tests indicated in Table 1.1 which are not waived. Additionally, the frame may include corner fittings 6a to 6h so as to meet the requirements to be certified under ISO 1161 and 668. Further, the frame members 4j, 41 and 4m to 4q may provide load transfer areas which meet the requirements under ISO 668. Furthermore, at least one outer wall may include the necessary markings in order that the apparatus 2 meets the requirements to be certified under ISO 6346.

[00123] In accordance with the above-described embodiments, the apparatus 2 when in the building fixture configuration fails to meet the necessary requirements to maintain certification as a marine ISO shipping container. Specifically, the external dimensions as defined by the frame, the inner walls, the ceiling and the floor may fail to match those as defined by the frame, the outer walls, the ceiling and the floor and, as such, cause the apparatus to lose its certification under ISO 668 when in the building fixture configuration. In an embodiment, these external dimensions may fail to meet the required dimensions set out in Table 1.0. Additionally, the structural integrity of the apparatus 2 as provided by the frame, the inner walls, the ceiling and the floor, and the joints between these elements, may fail to pass the necessary tests to be certified under ISO 1496 due to insufficient strength of the inner walls. Further, with the outer walls removed, the marking necessary for the apparatus 2 to meet the requirements to be certified under ISO 6346 are no longer present. Furthermore, in an embodiment in which at least one inner wall includes a mesh wall or a cage wall, the inner wall may fail to meet the weathertightness requirements under ISO 1469.

[00124] In some of the above-described embodiments the frame is stated as being provided by the members 4a to 4q. However, in some embodiments, it is to be understood that the frame is provided by only the members 4a to 41, that is, the cross members 4m to 4q are not included. Further, in some embodiments, it is to be understood that the frame also includes the corner fittings 6a to 6h.

[00125] It is contemplated that any part of any aspect or embodiment discussed in this specification can be implemented or combined with any part of any other aspect or embodiment discussed in this specification.

[00126] While particular embodiments have been described in the foregoing, it is to be understood that other embodiments are possible and are intended to be included herein. It will be clear to any person skilled in the art that modifications of and adjustments to the foregoing embodiments, not shown, are possible.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. An apparatus comprising:

(a) a parallelepiped frame;

(b) a plurality of outer walls fixed to the frame such that each outer side of the apparatus is formed by a different one of the plurality of outer walls;

(c) a floor forming a bottom of the apparatus and a ceiling forming a top of the apparatus, the floor and ceiling being fixed to the frame; and

(d) an inner wall fixed to the frame to form an inner side of the apparatus, the inner wall being adjacent to one of the outer walls; the adjacent one outer wall being removeably fixed to the frame so as to be removable to transition the apparatus from a shipping container configuration, in which the plurality of outer walls are affixed to the frame, to a building fixture configuration, in which the inner wall is an external wall of a building.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the inner wall comprises at least one of the following: an opening, a frame, a door, a window, a duct and an electrical device.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the inner wall is removeably fixed to the frame.

4. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the inner wall comprises two or more inner panels.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein each inner panel comprises an inner skin and an outer skin and thermal insulation material sandwiched in-between the inner skin and the outer skin, wherein the thermal insulation material and the inner and outer skins have an R-value of R-5 to R-8.

6. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the inner wall is spaced from the adjacent one outer wall so as to maintain a gap therebetween.

7. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the inner wall is in parallel with the one outer wall.

8. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein one of the outer walls comprises a door.

9. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein each outer wall is removeably fixed to the frame.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein each outer wall is removeably fixed to the frame by a plurality of fasteners positioned to be removable from outside the apparatus.

11. The apparatus of claim 9 or 10, wherein each outer wall comprises two or more outer panels.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein each outer panel comprises folded edge portions and the outer panels are fixed to each other and to the frame via their folded edge portions.

13. The apparatus of any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of inner walls fixed to the frame, each inner side of the apparatus being formed by a different one of the plurality of inner walls, each inner wall being adjacent to a different one of the outer walls, and each outer wall being removable to transition the apparatus into the building fixture configuration in which each inner wall is an external wall of the building.

14. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the ceiling is removeably fixed to the frame.

15. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the ceiling is permanently fixed to the frame.

16. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the frame further comprises an ISO 1161 certified corner fitting at each corner and wherein the corner fittings are positioned on the frame to meet the positional requirements specified in ISO 668.

17. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the frame, the floor, the ceiling and the plurality of outer walls have a combined structural integrity sufficient to pass ISO 1496 stacking, lifting, restraint and racking tests.

18. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the frame comprises two longitudinal top members having a hollow rectangular cross-section of a first thickness and wherein the remaining frame members have a hollow square cross section of a thickness less than the first thickness.

19. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 18, further comprising a watertight seal and wherein the frame, the floor, the ceiling and the plurality of outer walls are fixed together with the watertight seal so as to pass an ISO 1496 weathertightness test.

20. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the frame comprises at least two transverse bottom members providing load transfer areas meeting the requirements for certification under ISO 668.

21. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the external dimensions of the apparatus as defined by the frame, the floor, the ceiling and the plurality of outer walls meet the requirements for certification under ISO 668.

22. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein at least one outer wall comprises markings sufficient to meet the requirements for certification under ISO 6346.

23. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the building is a house or an industrial enclosure.

24. A building kit comprising a plurality of apparatuses as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 23.