GB2621252A

GB2621252A - Modular building unit, building system, building and associated methods

Info

Publication number: GB2621252A
Application number: GB2311455.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Lee Jones David; Ross Shenton Edward
Original assignee: Sano Development Ltd
Current assignee: Sano Development Ltd
Priority date: 2022-07-29
Filing date: 2023-07-26
Publication date: 2024-02-07
Also published as: GB2621253A; GB202403968D0; GB2621251A; GB202311444D0; GB202404006D0; WO2024023147A1; GB202311455D0; GB202311464D0

Abstract

There is disclosed a modular building unit and system, a building, a method of constructing a building, and a method of constructing a modular building unit of a building. One building disclosed herein comprises: a modular building unit defining an internal volume, the modular building unit being transportable to a final location for the building in a substantially assembled form; a further building unit defining an internal volume which provides a living space within the building; and at least one service pod mounted within the internal volume of the modular building unit as a self-contained structure, the service pod providing a service function within the building. The modular building unit and the further building unit are connected to define at least part of the building. The modular building unit can be configured so that, in use, its internal volume communicates directly with the internal volume of the further building unit, to facilitate access into at least one service pod from the living space of the further building unit. The internal volume of the modular building unit can define a circulation space which provides access, in use, to both the internal volume of at least one self-contained service pod and the living space provided by the internal volume of the further building unit, from within the modular building unit. A plurality of service pods may be mounted within the internal volume of the modular building unit as self-contained structures, the service pods providing respective service functions within the building.

Description

MODULAR BUILDING UNIT, BUILDING SYSTEM, BUILDING AND ASSOCIATED METHODS The present invention relates to modular building units, building systems, buildings, methods of constructing a building, and a method of constructing a modular building unit of a building.

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Prefabricated buildings (also known as 'modular' buildings) are well known in the construction industry, particularly modular residential buildings such as houses, flats or apartments, and hotels. Modular buildings typically comprise a series of building units which are constructed in a factory, transported to a final location (or site) for the building, and then arranged in a predetermined configuration and coupled together to form the finished building. The building units are typically constructed to a substantially assembled form in the factory, in which they can be transported to the final location.

Residential buildings are typically taken to be buildings in which sleeping acconunodation is provided for normal residential purposes, preferably with cooking and dining facilities, and normally comprise covered or enclosed living spaces which are heated and/or climate controlled. Residential buildings therefore conventionally comprise sleeping accommodation, and various service facilities including ones for cooking and dining, as well as sanitary and washing facilities. Accordingly, the buildings usually include a kitchen, one or more bathroom and/or shower room, and one or more water closet (W/C). Technical areas are also provided, such as utility rooms, and cupboards, closets or other rooms which house heating equipment, water tanks and the like.

in conventional modular building construction teclmiques, equipment intended to provide such service facilities are typically installed in the factory. Kitchens, bathrooms and W/Cs (among other things) are therefore installed in the building units during construction, and so are pre-installed prior to transportation to the final location.

This has conventionally been achieved using standard installation techniques, arid in a pica:elm:al fashion, by tradespeople skilled in the relevant fields. For example, kitchens are typically installed in modular building units at the factory location, using a kit of kitchen parts/units. This can be time-consuming and expensive, and can also lead to significant variations in quality, depending on the skill levels of the relevant tradespeople. Other options include on-site installation, following fitutsporFilion of the building unit to the fmal location, which is subject to similar disadvantages.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, them is provided a building system comprising: a modular building unit defining an internal volume, the modular building unit being transportable to a final location for a building in a substantially assembled limn; a thither building unit configured, in use; to define an internal volume which provides a hying space within the building; arid at least one service pod which is mountable within the internal volume of the modular building unit as a self-contained structure, the at least one service pod providing, in use, a service function within the building; in which the modular building unit and the further building unit are configured to be connected to define at least pall of the building; and in which the modular building unit is configured so that, in use, its internal volume communicates directly with the internal volume of the thither building unit, to facilitate access into the at least one service pod from the living space of the further building unit.

The building system may be configured to be assembled to limn the building, suitably at the final location for the building (which may be an on-sue location).

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a building comprising: a modular building unit defining an internal volume, the modular building unit being transportable to a final location for the building in a substantially assembled form; a further building unit defining an internal volume which provides a living space within the building; and at least one service pod mounted within the internal volume of the modular building unit as a self-contained structure; the at least one service pod providing a service function within the building; ill which the modular building tutu and the hither building unit are connected to define at least part of the building; and in which the modular building imit is configured so that its internal volume communicates directly with the internal volume of file further building unit to facilitate access into the at least one service pod from the living space of the further building unit.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a building system comprising: a modular building unit defining an internal volume, the modular building unit being transportable to a final location for the building in a substantially assembled form; a further building unit configured, in use, to define an internal volume which provides a living space within the building; and at least one service pod which is mountable within the internal volmne of the modular building unit as a self-contained structure; the at least one service pod providing, in use, a service function within the building; in which the modular building unit and the further building unit are configured to be connected to define al least part of the building; and in which the internal volume of the modular building unit defines a circulation space which provides access, in use, to both an internal volume of the at least one self-contained service pod and the living space provided by the internal volume of the further building unit; from within the modular building unit.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a building comprising: a modular building unit defining an internal vohune, the modular building unit being; transportable to a final location for the building in a substantially assembled limn; a further building unit defining all internal volume which provides a living space within the building; and at least one service pod mounted within the internal volume of the modular building unit as a self-contained structure; the at least one service pod providing a service function Within the building; in which the modular building unit and the further building unit are connected to define at least part of Lhe building; and in which the internal volume of the modular building unit defines a circulation space which provides access, in use, to both all internal volume of the at least one self-contained service pod and the living space provided by the internal volume of the further building mit, from within the modular building unit According to a fifth aspect of die present hwention, there is provided a building system comprising: a modular building unit defining an internal volume, the modular building unit being transportable to a final location for the building in a substantially assembled form; a further building unit configured, in use, to define an internal volume which provides a living space within the building; and a phirality of service pods which are mountable within the interim" volume of the modular building unit as self-contained structures, each service pod providing, in use, a respective service function within the building; in which die modular building unit and the further building unit are configured to be connected to define at least part of the building; and optionally in which: the internal volume of the modular building unit defines a circulation space which provides access in use, to an internal volume of at least one of die self-contained service pods; and/or at least one service pod is accessible, in use, directly from the living space of the further building unit.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a building comprising: a modular building unit defining an internal volume, the modular building unit being transportable to a final location for the building in a substantially assembled fonn; a further building unit defining an internal volume which provides a living space within the building; and a phiralih; of service pods mounted within the internal vohnne of die modular building unit as self-contained structures, each service pod providing a respective service function within the building; in which the modular building unit and the further building unit are connected to define at least part of the building; and optionally in which: the internal volume of the modular building unit defines a circulation space which provides access to an internal volume of at least one of the self-contained service pods; and/or at least one service pod is accessible directly from the living space of the further building unit.

The building systems and buildings of the present invention may provide advantages over prior modular buildings comprising a modular building unit, in which facilities such as a kitchen, bathroom and W/C arc installed in the unit in a factory, prior to transportation to a final location for the building. In particular, the provision of a service pod which is a self-contained structure, mountable within the internal volume of the modular building unit, may offer advantages including: ease of installation (and resultant construction time/cost efficiencies); reliability and repeatability of installation; and improved quality control. The at least one service pod may he constructed at a different location to the modular building unit, for example in a dedicated facility or factory. The service pod can therefore he constructed by operators skilled in a field relevant to the service function in question. This may reduce the likelihood of quality issues arising, as could occur in a factory where operators are required to install components providing multiple different service functions. Similar advantages may be achievable in comparison to services or facilities which are installed at a final location or site for the Optional further features of the building systems and buildings of the first to sixth aspects of the invention are as follows.

The system/building may comprise a plurality of service pods, each of which may be mountable within the internal volume of the modular building Imit as self-contained structures. The service pods may each provide a different service fimction, in use. At least one service pod may provide a same or a similar service function to at least one other service pod. The at least one service pod may be configured, in use, to provide more than one service fimction. The service function(s) may be selected from the group comprising: an access function (e.g. between different floors or storeys of the building, in particular of the further building unit); a cooking, dining and/or kitchen function; a sanitary function (e.g. washing/bathing, toilet); and a technical function (e.g. provision of utilities, conummications, heating, ventilation).

It will be noted that the word 'storey' is used throughout this document. In some teiritories the tem 'stoiy' has an equivalent meaning, and may be used in its place.

The at least one service pod may contain equipment/component(s) configured to perform the service function. The at least one service pod may contain one or more of a stairway/staircase (access function); a lift (access function); a W/C and/or a toilet facility (sanitary function); washing/bathing facilities (sanitary function, and which may include a basin/sink, shower and/or bath); utilities comections such as electrical power supply, gas supply, water supply, sewerage, and relevant meters (technical function); communication equipment such as data and telecommunication equipment (technical [Lim: Lion); heating and/or cooling equipment (technical function); ventilation equipment (teclutical function, which may include mechanical ventilation and heat recovery -MVHR -equipment); washing and/or drying equipment for textile products (technical function); and water storage tank (technical function).

Where there are a plurality of service pods, at least one of the service pods may be connectable to at least one other service pod, which may facilitate mounting of said service pods within the internal volume o I-the modular building unit together and/or at the same nine. Said connected service pods may together fonn a service pod assembly mountable within the internal volume or the modular building unit_ The at least one service pod may be releasably mountable/mounted within the internal volume of the modular building unit. This may facilitate removal of the pod from the unit, for example for maintenance and/or replacement purposes. The pod may be readily removable for example in the event that wear and tear on the

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pod has degraded its appearance; if it is desired to change a decorative appearance of the pod; or to alter, improve or upgrade functional equipment provided by or within the pod.

At least part of an external wall of the modular building unit may be removable and/or releasably attached to a structure or the unit, which may Facilitate removal of the pod. The pod may be configured to be translated out of the modular building unit through an aperture created when said part of the wall is removed. As will be discussed below, the at least one service pod can optionally faun at least part of one or more wall of the modular building unit. the pod may be released from the tmit together with (or canying) said part of the one or more wall.

he at least one service pod may be dimensioned so that it can be removed through one or more door or wmdow of the modular building wilt. One or more door or window may be releasably connected to the modular building unit in order to facilitate service pod removal. The at least one service pod may be dimensioned so that it can be removed through a doorway or walkway of the modular building unit, and/or a door or doors mounted in the doorway may be releasably mmmted relative to a frame fanning the doorway. Alternatively, a frame of such a door/window may be removably mounted to the modular unit, to facilitate pod removal.

The modular building unit may comprise a structural frame or core structure, which may provide shuctural support during use of the unit (as well as during transportation and handling). The structural frame may be a perimeter frame and/or may define at least part of a pelimeter of the modular building unit. he structural frame may comprise a plurality of frame components. 'lie structural frame/frame components may be of a metallic matelial, which may be a metal or metal alloy such as aluminium or steel. The structural frame/frame components may be of a cold-fonned (e.g. rolled or pressed) material. At least some of the structural frame/frame components could he of a hot-formed (e.g. hot-rolled) material.

The at least one service pod may be comiectable/connected to the structural fiame, for mmuding the pod within the Internal volume of the modular building unit. Connecting the at least one service pod to the structural frame may provide strength/structural benefits during use of the modular building unit. in particular, the pod may provide structural support to the building unit, for example to its structural frame. The pod may effectively be integrated into the structural frame and may thereby provide the structural support. The at least one service pod may be connectable/connected to at least one frame component, optionally' to a plurality or frame components, of the structural frame. Releasable connections, such as nut-and-boll assemblies, may be used to comect the pod to the structural frame.

The at least one service pod may compfise a structural flame (or other support structure), which may be connectable/connected to the structural frame or the modular building unit.

Reference is made to the at least one service pod being a self-contained structure. This could be taken to mean that the pod: is structurally self-supporting and does not rely e.g. on the modular building unit for its structural intemity; comprises all (or substantially all) components and/or facilities necessary for it to cany out its service function (other than for example external connections to components in the modular building unit, such as sewerage conncrtions); ancllor defines a complete perimeter structure (e.g. a wall perimeter structure) of the pod, without relying on other components such as of the modular building unit.

The at least one service pod may comprise a perimeter structure. The perimeter structure may comprise one or more wall.

The at least one service pod may comprise at least one wall, and suitably comprises a plurality of walls.

At least one wall of said service pod may be defined by the modular building unit. For example, said pod may comprise two or three walls, and may be configured to be positioned within the modular building unit adjacent a wall or walls of the building unit, which may define a remaining wall or walls of the pod during use.

The at least one service pod may define at least part of at least one wall of the modular building unit. The modular building unit may comprise a wall, which may include, or may define, an aperture or space. Said service pod may be configured to be positioned within the internal volume of the modular building unit so that its wall closes the aperture or space. Said service pod may therefore effectively complete the wall of the modular building unit.

Alt of the walls of the at least one service pod may be defined by the pod itself.

Where there are a plurality of service pods, there may be a mixture of different wall arrangements for the pods. For example, at least one wall of one or more service pod may be defined by the modular building unit, and/or one or more pod may define at least part of at least one wall of the modular building unit. Optionally, at least one service pod may define at least one wall of at least one further service pod. Thus service pods may share one or more wall.

The at least one service pod may define an internal volume. The internal volume may be provided by or bordered by the perimeter structure/structural frame.

The at least one service pod may comprise one or more of a floor and a ceiling/roof At least one of a floor and a ceiling/roof may be provided by the modular building unit.

The at least one service pod may be adapted to be mountecUmay be mounted on a floor of the modular building unit. Said service pod may therefore rest on the floor or the modular building unit.

The at least one service pod may define an internal volume. The service pod, in particular its internal volume, may house equipment and/or components providing the required service function, or facilitating provision of the service timction. The at least one service pod may comprise a doonvay, which may provide access into the intemal volume of said pod. A door may be motuned in the doorway, and may be provided integrally with the pod. At least some of the equipment and/or components may be mounted to one or more of a wall, a floor and a ceiling/roof of the service pod. At least some of the equipment and/or components may be mounted to the pod structural frame. The equipment/components may therefore be transportable to the Mal location within the pod.

The service pod internal volume may contain equipment/component(s) providing the required service function during use. The equipment/component(s) may be coupled to the perimeter stnicLure/structural frame (directly or indirectly). 't he equipment/component(s) may be mountable within the internal volume of the modular building unit by mounting the perimeter stucture/structural frame (containing said equipment) within the Menial volume of die modular unit.

The service pod (or at least one service pod where there are a plurality) may define one or more room. The service pod may delme or fonn an enclosed space. The enclosed space may contain equipment/component(s) providing die service function. The service pod may comprise a doorway or walkway which provides access into the enclosed space.

Where there are a plurality of service pods, at least one service pod may be shaped to receive at least part of one or more other service pod, e.g. within an internal volume of said at least one service pod.

The modular building unit, in particular its internal volume, may comprise or may define a circulation space/zone or transition space/zone. The circulation space may provide access, during use, to: the internal volume of the further building unit (suitably from within the modular building unit); and/or an internal volume of the at least one self-contained service pod. 'the circulation space may open on to the internal volume of the further building unit, suitably via one or more doorway or walkway aperture. The doorway may be provided by the modular building unit. 'the circulation space may communicate with the at least one service pod, suitably its intemal volume. Access into said service pod from the living space of the further building unit may he via the circulation space. Alternatively, said service pod (or at least one service pod where there are a plurality) may be mountable within the internal volume of the modular building unit such that die service pod communicates directly with, and/or opens directly on to, the intemal volume of the further building unit. Said pod may therelbre be accessible directly from the living space of the further building unit, without passing into the circulation space.

The modular building unit may he configured so that its internal volume communicates directly with the internal volume of the further building unit, to facilitate access into the at least one service pod from the living space of the further building unit.

The modular building unit may have a perimeter which borders or defines a boundary of the internal vohnue, and the at least one service pod may be disposed within said perimeter.

Reference is made to the internal volume of the modular building unit communicating directly with the internal volume of the further building unit. The communication between the internal volumes may be such that it is possible to transit from die internal volume of one of the modular and further building units directly into die

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internal volume of the other one of the modular and further building units, without having to pass: A) through a further unit. or part or the building; or B) to the building exterior.

The living space provided by the further building unit may form at least part of one or more room of the building. The one or more room may be selected from the group comprising: a kitchen; a dining room; a living, sitting or leisure room; a bedroom; and an open plan room comprising a plurality of different usage areas. The usage areas may be selected from the group comprising: a kitchen area; a dining area; and a living, sitting or leisure area. Optionally, a kitchen may be provided in the modular building unit, in particular in the or a service pod.

f he further building unit may comprise a lower storey and at least one upper storey. The further building unit internal vohune may define an upper living space and a lower living space, which may be defined by the upper and lower storeys respectively. Typically, the upper living space will form at least part of one or more bedroom, and the lower living space will fonn at least part of a kitchen; a dining room; a living, sitting or leisure room; and/or an open plan room comprising a plurality of (Efferent usage areas of the type set out above. Depending on factors including building design and ground conditions (e.g. a slope or inclination of the land), the room or rooms provided by the upper and lower living spaces may be reversed. for example, the lower living space may provide at least part of a bedroom or bedrooms, and the upper living space may provide at least part of a kitchen, dining room and/or living room. Bedrooms could be provided in both living spaces.

Reference is made to the modular building unit being transportable to the final location in a substantially assembled form. This may be taken to mean that said min is constructed to a state in which: it can be transported safely (i.e. it has sufficient structural integrity/rigidity for transport purposes); minimal further work is required to he carried out on said unit in order to connect it to the further building unit; and/or minimal (optionally no) further work is required to complete a portion or the building formed by said unit. Such further work may be of a structural an(/or weatherproofing nature, and may exclude work associated with a final fit-out of said unit, for example of a decorative nature (in particular the application of 'perishable' materials such as plaster/plasterboard, decorative panels and surface Finishes such as paint).

The building may be a residential building. In the context of the invention, this should be taken to mean a building in which sleeping accommodation is provided for normal residential purposes, preferably with cooking and dining facilities. Non-limiting examples of residential buildings falling within the scope of the invention include houses (detached, semi-detached, terraced and single storeyitamgalow), as well as apartments and flats. The principles of the invention may however be applicable to non-residential buildings including commercial or industrial buildings, such as offices and factories.

The building system/building may comprise a plurality of modular building units, which may be connectable or connected to define at least part of the building. The modular building units may be configured so that they can be stacked one on top of another, so that they at least partially overlap one-another. The modular building units may be stacked/stackable directly on top of one another (i.e. one resting on top of the other), so that access between the units can be achieved directly, e.g. without passing into or through any part of the further building unit. The modular building units may however be located side by side and/or at a similar level, and could be spaced apart and/or not connected. This may apply particularly to a single storey building.

The modular building units may each comprise at least one service pod, and so may each be units as defined in any of the first to sixth aspects. However; at least one of the modular building units may be devoid of, or may not comprise, a service pod. In a stacked mangement of modular building units, there may be a lower such unit and all upper such unit. The service pod of the lower modular building unit may provide all access function; and so may e.g. include a staircase/stairway. The upper modular building unit may comprise all opening or aperture configured to cooperate with the access function service pod, to facilitate access between internal volumes of said units via said pod.

The further building unit may also be a modular building mit, optionally as defined in aspects of the invention.

Alternatively, the further building unit may be a non-modular building nut. The turner building unit may be an on-site construction at the final location for the building. The further building unit may be of a construction selected from the group comprising: a blockwork/masomy construction e.g. of clay bricks and/or cement blocks; a timber frame (and blockwork/masonry, or cladding constriction); a metal frame constriction (optionally comprising panels coupled to the frame, which may be composite panels comprising insulation material); a structure comprising structural insulated 'SIP' panels; a time-setting 3ll printed constriction e.g. of a cementitious material; and combinations thereof The further building unit may be or may comprise a kit of building materials (e.g. blocks, timber frame components, metallic structural elements) which can be used in the on-site construction of the building unit. Suitable timber frame constructions can include a stick-built construction, and a timber frame kit.

The building may be fanned entirely from die modular building mit and file further building mit, or from a plurality of the modular building units and the further building unit. The building may comprise additional such further building units.

The modular building unit may be or may provide a first building section, the turner building unit may be or may provide a second building section, and the modular and further building units in ay together form part of a modular building or hybrid residential building; as disclosed in the applicant's pending International patent application nos. PCT/GB2022/051270, PC T/GB2022/051271, PCT/GB2022/051272, PCT/GB2022/051273 and PC-FF.22023/063435, the disclosures (il-which are incorporated herein by this reference.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of constructing a building comprising the steps of: constructing a modular building unit to a substantially assembled form at a location which is distanced from a final location for the building; mounting at least one self-contained service pod within all internal volume of the modular building unit, the at least one service pod configured to provide a service function within the building during use; transporting the modular building unit to the final location in the substantially assembled form; providing a further building unit at the final location, and arranging the further building unit so that it defines an internal volume which provides a living space within the building during use; connecting the modular building unit with the further building unit at the final location, to define at least part of the building; and arranging the modular building unit so that its internal volume comimmicates directly with the internal vohune of the fiuther building unit, to facilitate access into the at least one service pod from the living space of the further building unit The modular building unit may be a modular building unit as defined in the first aspect of the invention, and may comprise any of the further features specified above According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of constructing a building comprising the steps of constructing a modular building unit to a substantially assembled form at a location 'inch is distanced from a final location for the building; mounting at least one self-contained service pod within an internal volume of the modular building unit, the at least one service pod configured to provide a service function within the building during use; transporting the modular building unit to the final location in the substantially assembled form; providing a further building unit at the final location, and ananging the further building unit so that it defines all internal volume which provides a living space within the building during use; connecting the modular building unit with the further building unit at the final location, to define at least part of the building; and arranging the modular building unit so that its internal volume defines a circulation space which provides access, during use, to both an internal volume of the at least one self-contained service pod and the living space provided by the internal volume of the further building unit, from within the modular building mitt The modular building unit may be a modular building unit as defined in the third aspect of the invention, and may comprise any of the further Matures specified above.

According to a ninth aspect of the present iiivention, there is provided a method of constmcting a building comprising the steps of: constructing a modular building unit to a substantially assembled form at a location which is distanced nin a final location or the building; mounting a plurality of self-contained service pods within an internal volume of the modular building unit, each service pod configured to provide a respective service function within the building during use; transporting the modular building unit to the final location in the substantially assembled form; providing a further building unit at the final location, and arranging the further building unit so that it defines an internal volume which provides a living space within the building during use; connecting the modular building unit with the further building unit at the final location, to define at least part of the building; and optionally: arranging the modular building unit so that its internal volume defines a circulation space which provides access, in use, to an internal volume of at least one of the self-contained service pods; and/or arranging at least one service pod so that it is accessible directly from the living space of the further building unit.

The modular building unit may be a modular building unit as defined in the fifth aspect of the invention, and may comprise ally of the fluffier features specified above Optional further features of the methods of the seventh to ninth aspects of the invention are as follows.

The modular building unit may be constructed in a factory or facility. The factory or facility location may be on a building site containing the filial location for the building, but distanced from the final location as specified above. Alternatively, the factory or facility may be off-site, or away from the building site. Access to the site may then be achieved e.g. via road and/or rail transportation. It will be understood therefore that the construction location may be distanced from the final location in that the modular building -Ludt is not constructed at the final location for the building, and requires to be transported sonic distance from the construction location to the final location.

The method may comprise mounting the at least one service pod within the internal volume of the modular building unit, and then transporting the modular building unit to the final location (i.e. containing said pod).

The modular building unit may therefore be transported to the final location with the service pod positioned within Its internal volume. Alternatively, the method may comprise transporting the at least one service pod to the final location, and then mounting said pod within the internal volume of the modular building unit (i.e. at the final location).

The method may comprise mounting a plurality ()I -self-contained service pods within the internal volume of the modular building unit. Me method may comprise arranging said service pods so that they each provide a different service function during use. The method may comprise arranging at least one service pod so that it provides a same or a similar service function to at least one other service pod. The method may comprise arranging at least one service pod so that it provides more than one service function. The service functions may be selected from the group set out in relation to the first to sixth aspects. The at least one service pod may contain equipment/component(s) configured to perform the service function as set out in relation to the first to sixth aspects.

Where there are a plurality of service pods, the method may comprise: mounting at least one service pod within the internal volume of the modular building unit and then transporting the modular building unit to the final location; and transporting at least one further service pod to the final location and then mounting said pod within the internal volume of the unit. Alternatively, all of the service pods may be mounted within the internal volume of the modular building unit either before or after transportation of the modular building unit to the site.

The step of mounting the at least one self-contained service pod within the internal volume of the modular building unit may comprise connecting at least one service pod to at least one other service pod, and then mounting the connected pods within said internal volume (together and/or at the same nine). The step of connecting said service pods may form a service pod assembly which is then mounted within said internal volume.

The method may comprise releasably mounting the at least one service pod within the internal volume of the modular building unit. The method may comprise subsequently removing the pod from the building unit and either: A) performing maintenance on the pod before re-mounting the pod within the internal volume; or B) transporting a replacement service pod to the final location and mounting the replacement pod within the internal vohune. The maintenance may be perfonned on or off-site.

The step of constructing the modular building unit may comprise assembling a structural frame or core structure for the unit, which may provide structural support during use. The step of mounting the at least one service pod within the internal volume may comprise connecting the pod to the structural frame, optionally in a releasable fashion. The at least one service pod may comprise a structural frame, and the method may comprise connecting the structural frame of the at least one service pod to the structural frame of the modular building unit.

The method may comprise providing the at least one service pod with one or more wall, which may be integral to the pod. All of the walls may he provided integrally to the pod. Alternatively, the method may comprise arranging the modular building unit to provide at least one wall of the pod, following mounting of the pod in the internal volume of the unit, in another alternative, the method may comprise arranging the at least one service pod so that it defines at least part of at least one wall of the modular building unit. The modular building unit may be provided with a wall including an aperture or space, and the method may comprise positioning said service pod within the internal volume of the modular building unit so that its wall closes the aperture or space. The method may comprise arranging at least one service pod so that it defines at least one wall of at least one further service pod. The method may comprise providing the at least one service pod with one or both of a floor and a ceiling/roof which may be integral to the pod. Alternatively, the method may comprise arranging the modular building unit to provide at least one or a Boor and a ceiling/roof of the at least one service pod, following mounting of the pod in the internal volume of the runt.

The method may comprise positioning equipment and/or components providing the required service function, or facilitating provision of the service function, within an internal volume defined by the at least one service pod, suitably prior to mounting the pod within the internal volume of the modular building unit. The method may comprise mounting at least some of the equipment and/or components to one or more of a wall, a floor and a ceiling/roof of the service pod.

The step of constructing the modular building unit may comprise configuring its internal volume so that it defines a circulation space/zone or transition space/zone, which may provide access, during use: to the internal vohune of the further building unit (suitably from within the modular building rent); and/or to an internal volume of the at least one self-contained service pod. The method may comprise arranging the circulation space so that it opens on to the internal vohune of the further building unit, suitably by providing the modular building unit with one or more doorway or other access/walk way. The method may comprise arranging the circulation space so that it communicates with the at least one service pod, suitably its internal volume. Alternatively, the step of momting said service pod within the internal vohune of the modular building unit may comprise arranging the service pod so that it communicates directly with, and/or opens directly on to, the internal voltune of the further building unit.

The step of conslincting the modular building unit may comprise configuring its internal volume so that it communicates directly with the internal vohune of the further building unit, to facilitate access into the at least one service pod from the living space of the further building unit.

The step of providing the further building unit may comprise arranging its living space so that it forms at least part of one or more room of the building. ilie one or more room may be selected from the group set out above in relation to the first to sixth aspects.

The step of providing the further building unit may comprise providing said unit with a lower storey and at least one upper storey, and optionally arranging said further building unit internal volume so that it delines an upper living space and a lower living space. The upper and lower living spaces may be provided respectively by the upper and lower storeys.

The method may comprise constructing a plurality of the modular building units, transporting the modular building units to the final location, and connecting the modular building units (suitably following transport to the final location) to define at least part of the building. The method may comprise stacking modular building units one on top of another. The method may comprise providing each of the modular building units with at least one self-contained service pod. In a stacked arrangement of modular building units, there may be a lower such unit and an upper such unit. The method may comprise mounting a self-contained service pod providing an access function within an internal vohune of the lower modular building unit. The method may comprise providing the upper modular building unit with an opening or aperture configured to cooperate with the service pod, to facilitate access between internal vohunes of said Imits via said pod.

The step of providing the further building unit may comprise providing a further building unit which is a modular building unit, optionally as defined in aspects of the invention. Alternatively, the step of providing the further building unit may comprise providing a further building unit which is a non-modular building unit. The method may comprise constructing the further building unit on-site at the final location Ibr the building, suitably using a kit of building materials (e.g. blocks, timber frame components, metal structural elements) provided at the final location. Options for the construction of the further building unit are set out above in relation to the first to sixth aspects. The method may comprise constructing the further building unit and then connecting the modular building unit with the further building unit. The constructing step may take place prior to transporting the modular building unit to the final location. Alternatively, the method may comprise transporting the modular building unit to the final location, and then constructing die further building unit, optionally using the modular building unit as a platform or support for part or parts of the further building mit.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of constructing a modular building unit comprising at least one integral service pod, the method comprising the steps of constructing a structural frame describing an internal volume of a modular building unit, providing at least one service pod, the at least one service pod configured to provide a service function within a building compfising the modular building unit, positioning the at least one service pod within the internal volume of the modular building imit; connecting the at least one service pod to the structural frame of Me modular building unit; and at least partially enclosing the internal volume of the modular building unit with a perimeter structure.

The at least one service pod may comprise a structural frame, and the method may comprise coiuiecting the structural frame of the at least one service pod to the structural frame of the modular building unit.

The at least one service pM may be a self-contained service pod having die features set out in relation to the first to sixth aspects. The method may comprise: providing a pluraliM of the service pods; positioning each service pod within the internal volume of the modular building unit; and connecting each service pod (directly or indirectly) to die shuctural frame of die modular building unit. The method may comprise arranging said service pods so that they each provide a different service function, during use. The method may comprise arranging at least one service pod so that it provides a same or a similar service Ibnction to at least one other service pod. the method may comprise arranging at least one service pod so that it provides more than one service function. The service functions may be selected from the group set out in relation to the first to sixth aspects. The at least one service pod may contain equipmentkomponenas) configured to perform the service function as set out in relation to the first to sixth aspects.

The structural frame or the modular building unit may pmvide structural support Ibr the modular building unit during use. Connecting the at least one service pod (in particular its structural frame) to the structural frame of the modular building unit may provide structural support to the modular building unit. The said service pod may therefore contribute to the structural integrity of the modular building unit, during use. The step of connecting said service pod to the structural frame of the modular building unit may comprise releasably connecting the at least one service pod (in particular its structural frame) to die structural frame of the modular building unit, suitably via releasable connectors.

The method may comprise providing the at least one service pod with one or more wall, which may be integral to the pod. All of the walls may be provided integrally to the pod. Alternatively, the method may comprise arranging the modular building unit to provide at least one wall of the pod, following mounting of the pod in the internal volume of the unit. in another alternative, the method may comprise arranging the at least one service pod so that it defiles at least part of at least one wall of the modular building unit The modular building unit may be provided with a wall including an aperture or space, and the method may comprise positioning said service pod within the internal volume of the modular building unit so that its wall closes the aperture or space. The method may comprise providing the at least one service pod with one or both of a floor and a ceiling/roof, which may be integral to the pod. Alternatively: the method may comprise arranging the modular building unit to provide at least one of a floor and a ceiling/roof of the at least one service pod, following mounting of the pod ill the internal volmne of the unit.

The method may comprise positioning equipment and/or components providing the required service function, or facilitating provision of the service function, within an internal volume defined by die at least one service pod, optionally prior to positioning said pod in the modular building unit. The method may comprise mounting at least some of the equipment and/or components to one or more of a wall, a floor and a ceiling/roof of the service pod.

The step of at least partially enclosing the internal volume of the modular building unit with a perimeter structure may take place following positioning of the at least one service pod within the internal volume of the modular building unit, the step may comprise providing the modular building unit with one or more of a roof or ceiling structure; a floor structure; and a wall structure comprising one or more perimeter wall. The step inay comprise providing at least one doorway/walkway aperture within the wall structure, which may provide access between an exterior of the modular building unit and the internal volume of the modular building unit. The method may comprise arranging the modular building unit so that its internal volume defines a circulation space/zone (or a transition space/zone). which may provide access to both the internal volume of the self-contained service pod and the doorway aperture.

The method may be a method of constructing a modular building unit as defined in the first, third or fifth aspect of the invention. Optional further features may be derived from the text set out in relation to any or the first to sixth aspects.

in a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a modular building unit constructed according to die steps of the method of the seventh, eighth or ninth aspect of the invention.

In a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a modular building unit as defined in any one of the first to sixth aspects of the invention.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. I is a simplified perspective view of a building, comprising a modular building unit in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; Figs. 2 and 3 are cross-sectional plan views respectively of lower and upper storeys of the builcliiig shown in Fig. 1, illustrating certain features of the building; Figs. 4 and 5 are cross-sectional plan views respectively of lower and upper storeys of a building, comprising a modular building unit, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention; Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a general structure of a first modular building unit of the building shown in Fig. 4; Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a general structure of a second modular building unit of the building shown in Fig. 5; Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a building, comprising a modular building unit, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention, with certain features removed for ease of illustration; and Figs. 9 and 10 are exploded perspective views illustrating general structures of first and second modular building units in accordance with further embodiments of the invention Turning lirstly to Fig. I, there is shown a simplified perspective view of a building I 0, comprising a modular building unit 12a, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The building 10 can be considered to be a modular or hybrid building, comprising the modular building unit 12a and a further building unit 14, the units being connected togetltir to form at least part of the building. The modular building unit 12a and the further building unit 14 may respo:tively define first and second sections of the building 10, which in the illustrated embodiment takes the form of a static residential building or domestic dwelling, in particular a detached house.

11he modular or hybrid building 10 of the invention is of the general type disclosed in the applicant's pending International patent application nos. PCT/GB2022/051270, PCT/GB2022/051271, PCT/GB20221051272, PCT/GB2022/051273 and PCT/F22023/063435, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by this reference. General features of the building 10 are as follows.

The second building section provided by the further building unit 14 is, in the illustrated embodiment, an on-site construction at a final, fixed, on-site location for the building 10. The second building section can take the form of a dock, to which the first building section provided by the modular building unit 12a may be docked, installed, connected, or attached. The final, fixed, on-site location may be determined by construction plans and fixed by virtue of building foundations. The tenn "on-site location" is used to refer to the building site, which will be understood to refer to the immediate proximity (Jr the building ID and the entire building site, including a housing estate, on which the building is to be built. It will be understood that the site may be a large building/ construction site comprising a plurality' of plots, the final location for the building 10 being provided by one of said plots. The first building section provided by the modular building unit I 2a can take the limn of a module which is dockable, installable, connectable, or attachable to another building section, particularly to a second building section in the fonn of a dock.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second building section provided by the further building unit 14 is configured to receive the first building section provided by the modular building unit 12a. The modular building unit 12a is comiected to and received by the further building unit 14 at the final location of the building 10, to provide the building at the final, fixed, on-site location. During construction of the second building section at the on-site location, the second building section is preconfigured to receive the first building section. That is, the second building section is constructed with the knowledge and design that a first building section is to be subsequently comiected, and the second building section is thus preconfigured for connection and receipt of die first building section. This could relate to the shaping of the second building section, through to sealing and connection features. In a variation, the modular building unit 12a may be transported to the fmal location and positioned on site, and die hither building unit 14 subsequently constmeted and cmmected to die modular building unit.

The first building section provided by the modular building unit 12a is transportable to die final location in a substantially assembled form. This may be taken to mean that the unit 12a is constructed to a state in which: it can be transported safely (i.e. it has sufficient structural integrity/rigidity for transport puiposes); minimal further work is required to be canted out on the modular unit in order to connect it to die further building tmit 14; and/or minimal (optionally no) further work is required to complete a portion of the building formed by the modular unit. Such further work may be or a structural and/or weatheiprooling nature, and may exclude work associated with a fmal fit-out of said unit for example of a decorative nature (in particular the application of 'perishable' materials such as plaster/plasterboard, decorative panels and surface finishes such as paint).

The second building section provided by the further building unit 14, in the illustrated embodiment, is configured to removably receive the first building section provided by the modular building unit I 2a. That is, the second building section is configured to receive the first building section in a receivable manner such that the second building section can be removed, if and when desired, to facilitate replacement and/or modification of the second building section. The first building section provided by the modular building unit 12a is portable, in a fon» to be connected to and received by the second building section provided by the further building unit 14.

The second building section provided by die fuither building unit 14 is configured to receive die first building section provided by the modular building unit 12a, so that the first and second building sections may be connected. The first building section and the second building section may be provided with male-female structures, for facilitating the connection, or guiding die connection. This might also facilitate an at least partial sealing of or between the second building section and the first building section. In another example, the first building section might closely abut against the second building section, and there may he no male-female structures. This might also facilitate an at least partial scaling of or between the second building section and the first building section.

Fig. 2 and 3 will now be referred to, which are more detailed cross-sectional plan views respectively of lower and upper storeys of the building 10 shown in Fig. 1, illustrating certain farther features of the building.

The further building unit 14 can be of any suitable construction, including but not limited to: a block-work/masonry construction e.g. of clay bricks and/or cement blocks; a timber frame awl blockworldmasonry construction; a timber frame and cladding construction; a metal frame construction (optionally comprising panels coupled to the frame, which may be composite panels comprising insulation material); a structure comprising structural insulated 'SIP panels; a time-setting 31) printed construction e.g. of a cementitious material; and combinations thereof The further building unit 14 can be constructed front a kit of building materials (e.g. blocks, timber frame components, metal structural elements) provided at the building site. Suitable timber frame constructions can include a stick-built construction, and a timber frame kit.

The building 10 in-fact comprises the modular building unit 12a, and a further modular building unit 121), which is stacked on top of the unit 12a. The modular building units 12a and 12b are connected together. Stacking of the modular building units 12a and 12b typically occurs at the fmal location, which facilitates handling and transportation. 'I'he modular building units 12a and 12b are of like construction, and configured to connect with the further building unit 14 to fonn the completed building 10. The modular building units 12a and 12b are stacked directly on top of one another (that is with the upper unit 12b resting on top of the lower unit 12a). Access between the units I 2a, 1) can therefore he achieved directly, without having to pass into or through any part of the further building unit 14.

As explained in detail in the applicant's pending International patent applications mentioned above, the modular building units 12a and I 2b provide a number of functions in the completed hybrid/modular building 10. These include that the modular building unit 12a includes a stairway or staircase 18 which provides access and/or an access route between a lower storey 20 and an upper storey 22 of the further building unit 14, as indicated by the arrow 23 in Fig. 1.

In addition, and referring to Fig. 2 showing the lower storey 20, the modular building unit 12a comprises a front or main doorway 24 into the building 10, which provides access and/or an access route (indicated by the arrow 26 ihi the drawing) between an exterior 84 of the building 10 and an interior of the building, ihi paiticular of the further building unit 14.

Still further, and referring to Fig. 3 showing the upper storey 22, the modular building unit 12h provides access and/or an access route between individual rooms or areas within the further building unit 14, including rooms/areas which cannot be accessed solely from within the further building unit. This is indicated by the arrow 28 in Fig. 3. Access in this instance is provided between a master bedroom 30 and further bedrooms 32 and 34 in the further building section 14.

As can be seen in Figs. 2 and 3, the modular building units 12a and 12b define circulation spaces/zones (or transition spaces/zones) which provide for the required access/access routes specified above. Two such circulation spaces arc shown in broken outline in the drawings, and indicated by reference numerals 36 and 38. the circulation spaces 36 and 38 encompass and/or are provided by a hallway 40, the staircase 18 and a landing 42. The hallway 40 and staircase 18 are provided in or by the lower modular building unit 18a, and the landing 42 by the upper modular building unit 18b stacked on the unit 18a. The upper modular building unit 18b includes a stairway aperture or opening 44 which communicates with the staircase 18, to facilitate movement between the building units 18a and 18b (and so between the lower and upper storeys 20 and 22 of the further building unit 14).

As mentioned above, the modular building 10 comprises the modular building units 12a and 12b, and the further building unit 14 (which is typically an on-site construction). Reference will be made mainly to the modular building unit 12a. The modular building unit 12b is of similar construction, and it will be understood that the discussion of the unit 12a applies equally to the unit 12b. Accordingly, only substantive differences between the modular building units 12a and 12b will be desciibed. The invention also encompasses a modular building system which is used to form the modular building 10. The features of the modular building system will be evident from the following discussion.

The modular building unit 12a defmes an internal volume 46, and is transportable to the final location for the building 10 in the substantially assembled fonn shown in the drawings. The further building unit 14 is configured, in use, to define an internal volume 48 which provides a living space 49 within the building 10. The living space 49 defines various rooms and/or areas of the building 10. These include an open-plan room providing a kitchen area 64, dining area 65, living area 67 and leisure area 69 in the lower storey 20, and the bedrooms 30 to 34 in the upper storey 22. The living space 49 which is provided therefore includes a lower living space part in the lower storey 20, and an upper living space part in the upper storey 22.

The internal volume 46 of the modular building unit 12a communicates directly with the internal volume 48 of the further building unit 14. The communication is such that it is possible to transit from the internal volume 46 or 48 of one of the modular and further building units 12a and 14 directly into the internal volume of the other one of the modular and further building units, without having to pass through a further unit or part of the building 10, or to the building exterior 84.

The building 10 also comprises at least one service pod which is mountable within the internal volume of the modular building unit 12a/b as a self-contained structure. ln the illustrated embodiment, the building 10 comprises a plurality of such service pods, which are each given the reference numeral 50, together with a respective suffix a, b, c etc. The service pods 50, in use, each provide a service fimetion within the building 10, as will he described below. Like components of the service pods 50 share the same reference numeral, but are indicated by the relevant suffix.

The communication between the internal volume 46 of the modular building unit I 2a and the internal volume 48 of the further building unit 14 facilitates access into the at least one service pod 50 from the living space 49 of the further building unit. In addition, the circulation space 40 defined by the internal volume 46 of the modular building unit 12a provides access, in use, to both an internal volume 52 of the service pod 50, and the living space 49 provided by the internal volume 48 of die further building unit 14, from within the modular building mit 12a.

The hybrid or modular building 10 of the invention may provide advantages over prior modular buildings comprising a modular building unit, in which components of facilities such as a kitchen, bathroom and WC: or washroom are installed in the unit in a factory, prior to transportation to a final location for the building. In particular, die provision of a service pod 50 which is a self-contained structine, mountable within the internal volume 46 of the modular building unit 12a, offers advantages including: ease of installation (and resultant construction time/cost efficiencies); reliability and repeatability of installation; and improved quality control. The service pod 50 can be constructed at a different location to die modular building unit 12a, for example in a dedicated facility or factory. The service pod 50 can therefore be constructed by operators skilled in a field relevant to the service function in question. This may reduce the likelihood of quality issues arising, as could occur in a factory where operators are required to install components providing multiple different service functions. Similar advantages may be achievable in comparison to components of facilities which are installed at a final location or site for a building.

As mentioned above, the building 10 comprises a plurality of service pods 50, each of which are mountable within the internal volume 46 of the modular building unit I 2a as self-contained structures. in the case of the modular building unit 12a, there are four such service pods 50a to 50d, which each provide a different service function during use. A wide range of different service functions can be provided, which may be selected from the group comprising: an access function (e.g. between different storey's 20 and 22 of the building 10, in particular of its further building unit 14); a cooking, dining and/or kitchen function; a sanitary function (e.g. washing/bathing and/or toilet); and a technical function (e.g. provision of utilities, communications, heating, v en tilati on).

In the illustrated embodiment, die service pods 50a to 50d of the modular building milt 12a respectively provide an access function (pod 50a), a sanitary function (pod 50b), and technical functions (pods 50c and 50d). The service pods 50a to 50d contain equipment or components which are configured to perform die required service function. The service pods 50a to 50d are each positioned on a floor 47 of the modular building unit I 2a, so that they are supported by the floor.

The pod 50a, which provides an access fimction, contains die stairway 18 that provides access between the lower and upper modular building units 12a, b and so die access between die different storeys 20 and 22 of the building unit 14 (as indicated by the an-ow 23). Tt will be understood that this could similarly be achieved via a lid (not shown) or other suitable access equipment.

The pod 501), which provides a sanitary function (functioning as a WIC or washroom), contains a toilet 54 and a sink 56.

the pod 50c, which provides a technical function, can contain a wide range of different equipment including utilities connections such as electrical power supply, gas supply, water supply, sewerage connections, and relevant meters; communication equipment such as data and telecommunication equipment; heating and/or cooling equipment; ventilation equipment, which may include mechanical ventilation and heat recovery (MVIIR) equipment; white goods such as washing and/or drying equipment for textile products; and a water storage tank. In die illustrated embodiment, die pod 50c contains a boiler 58. MVIIR control equipment 60 and utilities connections 62 (e.g. for electric and water supplies terminated in the pod). The pod 50c therefore effectively acts as a services hub, providing services into the further building unit 14 (and so the building 10).

The pod 50d also provides a teclmical function, functioning as a utility room for the kitchen area 64 provided in the open-plan living space 49 (defined by die internal volume 48 of the further building unit 14). The pod 50d contains a sink 66 and 'white goods' type equipment such as a washer/dryer 68.

In a similar fashion, the modular building unit 12b compiises service pods 50e and 50f, which provide sanitary functions. itie service pod 50e functions as a bathroom, containing a bath 70, shower cubicle 72, toilet 74 and sink 76. The service pod 50f limctions as an ensuite fondue master bedroom 30, and contains a shower cubicle 78, toilet 80 and sink 82. The service pods 50e and 50f are each positioned on a floor 53 of the modular building unit 12b, so that they are supported by the floor.

As can be seen from Figs. 2 and 3, the service pods 50a and 50b each open on to (and so communicate with) the circulation space 36. Access into the pods 50a, 1) from within the living space 49 of the further building unit 14 (and indeed from within the modular building unit 12a itsell) is therelbre provided via the circulation space 36. The service pod 50d in contrast opens directly on to the living space 49 of the further modular building unit 14, and so effectively provides direct access from the living space into the pod, without passing into the circulation space 36 of the modular building unit I 2a. The service pod 50d therefore communicates directly with, and/or opens directly on to, an internal volume 48 of the further building unit 14.

The service pod 50c opens to the building exterior 84, via access doom 86. This facilitates access to the equipment within die pod 50c without requiring enty into the main part of the building 10, for example by stilled tradespeople or meter readers. Tn a variation however, the pod 50c may additionally or alternatively be accessible from within die modular building unit 12a, or the further building unit 14.

In a similar fashion, the service pod 50e in the second modular building unit 12b opens on to (and so communicates with) the circulation space 38. Access into die pod 50e from within the bedrooms 30, 32 or 34 of the further building unit 14 (and indeed from within the modular building unit 12h itself) is therefore provided via the circulation space 38. The service pod 501 in contrast opens directly on to the master bedroom 30, and so effectively provides direct access from the bedroom into the pod.

The service pods 50a to 501 are each releasably mounted within the respective internal volumes 46, 51 of the modular building units 12a, b. This facilitates =oval of the pods from the units, for example for maintenance and/or replacement purposes. The pods 50a to 50f may he readily removable, for example in the event that wear and tear on a pod has degraded its appearance; if it is desired to change a decorative appearance of a pod; or to alter, improve or upgrade fimctional equipment provided by or within a pod.

Further features of the modular building units and modular buildings of the invention will be described with reference to a further embodiment shown in Figs. 4 to 7. In these drawings, Figs. 4 and 5 are cross-sectional plan views respectively of lower and upper storeys of a further building 10', comprising a modular building unit 12a'/12b', in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a general structure of a first modular building imit 12a' of the building 10' shown in Fig. 4. Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a general structure of a second modular building unit 12b' of the building 10' silo-ma in Fig. 5. Upper structural parts of the modular building units 12a'/12b' have been removed in Figs. 6 and 7, to facilitate illustration and understanding of the invention. Like components of the building 10' with the building 10 shown in Figs. 1 to 3 share the same reference numerals, with the addition of the suffix '. Only substantive differences or additional features in comparison to the building 10 will be described.

In the illustrated embodiment, the building 10' again takes the fonn of a residential building, in this instance a semi-detached house sharing an internal wall 88 with an adjacent such house. Parts of back 90 and front 92 walls of the adjacent house are shown in the drawing. It will be understood however that the building may be a detached house like that shown in Fig. 1. The building 10' comprises the modular building units 12a' arid 12b', and a further building unit 14'. The modular building units 12a' and 12b1 are stacked in the same way as llie units 12a and 12b (as shown in Fig. 1), and connected to the further building unit 14' which is again an on-site construction at a final, fixed, on-site location Ibr the building 10'.

As can be seen from Fig. 6, the modular building unit 12a' comprises a structural frame or core structure, indicated generally by numeral 94, which provides structural support during use of the unit (as well as during transportation and handling). The structural frame 94 is a perimeter frame, generally defining a perimeter of the modular building unit 12a'. The structural frame 94 comprises a plurality of frame components which are interconnected to lbmi the frame. The drawing shows side roof beams 96a and h. which are connected to end roof beams 98a and b to form a top or roof frame portion 99 of llie frame 94. A floor frame portion of the frame 94 similarly comprises side and end floor frame beams, one side floor beam 100 and one end floor beam 102 being shown. The floor frame portion is indicated by numeral 103. The roof and floor frame portions 99 and 103 are connected together by corner posts or columns 104a to 104d, to form a wall structure comprising side wall frame portions 106a, La and end wall frame portions 108a, b.

it will be understood that further frame components (not shown) may he provided defining any one or more of the roof, floor and/or wall frame portions 99, 103, 106a/b and I 08a/b. in particular, floor joists are provided which extend between and are connected to the side floor beams 100 of the floor frame portion 103. Roof joists are provided which extend between and are connected to the side roof beams 96a, h of the roof frame portion 99. A roof structure comprising such joists has been removed from the part or the drawing showing the modular unit 12a', to facilitate illustration and understanding (as have roof frame components of the pods 50a1/50b' shown located in the modular unit). The wall frame portions 106a, b and 108a, b may comprise bracing members such as struts, beams or columns which provide additional structural strength, and/or define a structure of the wall frame portions. For example, additional columns may extend between and be connected to side floor beams 100 and side roof beams 96a, b as well as between end floor beams 102 and end roof beams 98a, b.

Transverse bracing struts may extend between adjacent columns.

The frame components are typically of a metallic material, which may be a metal or metal alloy such as aluminium or steel. The frame components are suitably of a cold-formed (e.g. rolled or pressed) metallic material, which may be a metal or metal alloy such as aluminnun or steel. As is well-known, cold-formed metallic frame components of this type are typically constructed from thin flat plates (e.g. around 3nun thick), and are 'Untied into channel or box-section shapes which provide structural rigidity and resist applied loading. At least some frame components could however be of a hot-formed (e.g. hot-rolled) material such as steel, particularly frame components of or forming a main perimeter part of the structure, including for example the roof beans 96a/b and 98a/b, the floor beams 100 and 102, and the columns 104a to d. Timber and timber-based materials (e.g. composite wood materials such as plywood) can also be employed.

In the illustrated embodiment, the modular building unit 12a' again comprises a plurality of service pods, two shown and given the numerals 50a' and 5011'. As mentioned above, Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view, which also shows the service pods 50a' mid 50b' separately or removed from an internal volume 46' (il-the building unit 12a' (or prior to mounting in the building unit). The pod 50n provides all access function, housing a stairway 18'. The pod 50b' provides a sanitary function (functioning as a W/C. or washroom), housing a toilet 54' and a sink 56'. Further service pods can be provided in the modular building unit 12a', including a technical pod 50c mid a utility pod 50d'. lhe utility pod 50d' may be located within, or may effectively form part of, the access pod 50a'.

The service pods 50a' and 50b' are each releasably connectable to the structural frame 94 of the building unit 12a', so that the pods can be mounted within the internal volume 46 of the building unit Connecting the service pods 50a' and 50b' to the structural frame 94 provides structural benefits during use of the modular building unit 12a'. In particular, the pods 50n and Sob' provide structural support to the binding unit 12a', specifically to its structural frame 94. The pods 50a' and 50b' arc effectively integrated into the structural Frame 94, and thereby provide the structural support.

The service pods 50a' and 50b' are typically connected to at least one frame component of the stmctural frame 94, optionally to a phpality of frame components. Releasable connections (not shown), such as nut-and-bolt assemblies, may be used to connect the pods 50al and 50b to the frame 94. However, other options can include clamps, a friction lit, a snap-lock arrangement latching pins and indeed any other releasable connection.

The service pods 50a' and 50b1 comprise respective structural frames 110a and 110b, which are each connectable to the structural frame 94 oldie modular building unit I 2a'. The structural frames II 0a/b define perimeter structures of the pods 50a' and 501)', providing structural integrity to the pods: during use; during transport to the manufacturing facility for the modular building unit 12a'; and during handling of the pods for mounting them within the internal volume 46.

Referring for example to the service pod 50a1, and in a similar fashion to the structural frame 94 of the building unit 12a', the structural flame 110a of the pod comprises a plurality of frame components which are interconnected to fonn the pod frame. Side roof beams 112 and 114 are comiected to end roof beams 116 and 118 to form a top or roof frame portion 120 of the frame 110a. A floor frame portion 122 comprises side and end floor frame beams, one side floor beam 124 being shown, and two end floor beams 126 and 128. The roof and floor frame ponions are comiected together by corner posts or columns 130, 132, 134 and 136. The frame components are again typically of a cold-formed metallic material, such as ahuninium or steel, although use of a hot-formed material such as steel is all option (or indeed timber/timber-based materials).

The service pod 50a' defines an internal volume 137, which is bordered by the perimeter structure of the frame 94. The stairway 18' is positioned within the internal voltune 137, and is suitably commeted to the frame 94.

For example, the stairway 18' may also be of a metallic material (suitably the same material as the frame 94), and connected to the frame by welding or bonding. However, other options include releasable comiectors of the type described elsewhere in this document, which may facilitate maintenance and/or replacement of the stairway Ig' whilst permitting reuse of other parts such as the frame 1 I Oa. Additional options for connecting the stairway lfd to the pod 50a' (and indeed other equipment/components to different pods) includes securing the stairway 18' directly to one or more of a floor, roof or a wall/walls of the pod. The latter may be a particular option where structural panels are used to form walls of the pods, as will be discussed below. In another variation, the stairway 18' may be provided as a pod which does not comprise a structural frame, the stairway optionally being directly connected to the structural frame 94 of the modular building unit 12a'.

The perimeter structure defined by the structural frame 110a of the service pod 50a' comprises one or more wall, and in the illustrated embodiment comprises end wall 138, side wall 140 and end wall 142. A second side 144 is open, providing access to the stairway 18'. All of the walls 138, 140 and 142 of the service pod 50a" are defined by the pod itself. Tn a variation however, at least one of the walls 138, 140 and 142 may be defined by the modular building unit 12a', in particular by the side or end wall poitions 106a/b and 108afb of the building unit in the case of the service pod 50a, the side wall portion 106a of the building unit 12a' may provide the pod wall 140, and the end wall portion 108b of the building unit may provide the pod wall 142. Arranging the building unit end wall portion I 08b so that it provides the pod wall 142 may facilitate the provision of a utility compartment or area 146 in the service pod 50a1, as showu in the plan view of Fig. 4, so that the pod provides multiple service functions.

The service pod 50b' is ofsunilar structure to the service pod 50a', and, will not he described in detail here. Again, the pod 50b' itself may provide all of its walls, or the building unit 12a' may provide one or more of the walls. In a variation, service pods provided adjacently in the building unit 12a' may share one or more internal wall. For example, in the illustrated building unit I 2a', the service pods 50a' and 50b are adjacent within the unit, and the end wall 138 of the pod 50a' may provide an end wall of the pod Sob'.

The modular building unit 12a' comprises a front doorway 24', with a door 148 mounted in a door frame 150 positioned in the doorway. The door frame 150 is secured to the structural frame 94, to provide a stable mounting for the door 148. The building unit 12a' also comprises internal doorways or walkways 152 and 153, which provide access between a lower storey 20' of the further building unit 14a and the modular building unit 12a, and so to the service pods 50a' and 50b' (and thus the stairway 18' and the WIC facilities in the pod 5011'). In a similar fashion to the modular building unit 12a of Figs. 1 to 3, the building unit 12a' defines a circulation space 36' which facilitates the movement between the modular building unit and the further building unit 14'.

The modular building unit 12b' is of a similar construction to the building unit 12a' and so will only be briefly described. The building inlit 12b' comprises a structural frame 154, which is similar to the frame 94 of the building unit 12a'. Service pods 50es and 501 are releasably mounted within an internal volume 51' of the building unit 12b1, and are secured to the frame 154. The pods 50e' and 501 both provide sanitan; functions.

The service pod 50e' functions as a bathroom, containing a bath 70', toilet 74' and sink 76'. The service pod 50I functions as an ensuite for a master bedroom 30', and contains a shower cubicle 75', toilet 80' and sink 82'. Fig. 7, similar to Fig. 6, again shows roof structure of the modular unit 12b' removed, as well as roof frame components of the pods 50e7501 shown located in the modular unit).

The modular building unit I2b' comprises lbur internal doorways or walkways 156, 158, 160 and I 62, which provide access berneen an upper storey 22' of the further building unit 14a and the modular building unit 12b', and so to the service pods 50e' and 5fill (and thus the stairway 18' and the sanitary facilities in the pods). Specifically, the doorway 156 provides access from the master bedroom 30' into the ensuite pod 501', whilst the doorways 158, 160 and 162 provide access respectively between the modular building unit 12b' and the master bedroom 30', a second bedroom 32' and a third bedroom 34'. In a similar fashion to the modular building unit 12b of Figs. 1 to 3, the building unit 12b' defines a circulation space 38' which facilitates the movement between the modular building unit and the further building unit 14'.

in the illustrated embodiment, wall structures of the first and second modular building units I 2a' and 12b' are both panellised. For example and referring to Fig. 6, externally facing walls of the unit 12a' comprise structurally insulated panels which are connected to the structural frame 94. The panels have a weather-proof external surface, three being identified in the drawing and given the reference minerals 164a to 164c. Internal walls also comprise panels connected to the frame 94. A plurality of such panels can be seen in the drawing, one of which has been identified with the numeral 166 Wall stmctures of the various service pods 50a' to 5011 are similarly panellised, as can be seen in Figs. 6 and 7. For example and referring to the sanitary pod 501)', side walls 168 arid 170 (considered relative to a direction of entry into the pod), and end walls 170 and 172, are formed from a plurality of panels, one of which has been identified with the numeral 176. The panels forming the side walls 168, 170 and the end wall 174 are each connected to the pod structural frame 1 Mb. Bracing or moimting struts of the frame 110b, e.g. as shown at 177 in Fig. 6, serve for connecting the panels 168 and 170 to the frame. Similar such struts for the pod 5017 frame 110f can be seen in Fig. 7, indicated at 179. In the illustrated embodiment the end wall 172 of the pod 50b' is provided by the modular building unit 12b' itself, and so by panels fonning a wall of the unit (connected to the unit frame 94). In a variation however, the pod end wall 172 may be fanned by integral pod panels.

it may be desirable to arrange one or more of the service pods 50a' to 50e of the modular building units 12a' and 12b' to provide at least part of one or more wall of the respective building unit. 't his may be particularly useful where relatively complex internal wall finishings are required in the pods, for example tiled surfaces on walls of the W/C pod 50b1, bathroom pod 50e' and/or ensuite pod 501' . Taking the W/C pod 50b' as an example, it may be desirable to provide the side walls 168, 170 and end wall 172 with tiled internal surfaces (facing into the internal volume of the pod). the side wall portion 106a of the modular building unit 12a' may have an aperture or opening (not shown) where the end wall 172 of the pod Sob' is located. The pod end wall 172 may be arranged to close the aperture in the side wall portion 106a once installed, and may form part of the external surface structure of the modular building unit 12a'. This may provide the advantages that a double wall can be avoided (as would be the case where the modular building unit 12a' and pod 50b' each define respective overlapping wall structures), and that the relevant wall surfaces can be tiled prior to installation of the pod (avoiding a requirement to tile after installation, as may be nuyessary where the modular building unit 12a' provides the pod end wall 172).

AL least one of the service pods 50a' to 50e' may be connectable to at least one other service pod. This may facilitate mounting of the service pods within the internal vokune of the respective modular building unit 12a', 1211' together and/or at the same time. This may apply particularly to service pods which are positioned adjacent one-another when mounted within the modular building unit 12a1121)'. For example, the pods 50a: and 50b' may be connected prior to installation within the internal volume 46' of the modular building unit 12a'. lhc connected service pods 50a' and 50b' may together fonn a service pod assembly which is mountable within the internal volume of the modular building unit. Connecting the service pods 50a1 and 501)' in this way may facilitate or streamline the installation process for the pods.

't he service pods 50a' and 50b' may be connected by joining their structural frames 110a and 110b together, for example by welding, or using releasable connectors such as nut and bolt assemblies (or other such options discussed elsewhere in this document). Providing a releasable connection may facilitate maintenance and/or replacement of a selected one of the pods.

Reference is made to the various service pods 50 disclosed herein being self-contained structures. This could be taken to mean that the pods 50: are structurally sell-supporting arid do not rely e.g. on the modular building units 12 for their structural integrity; comprise all (or substantially all) components and/or facilities RCCOSSary for them to carry out their service function (other than for example external connections to components in the modular building units 12, such as sewerage connections); and/or define a complete perimeter (e.g. a wall perimeter) of the pods 50; without relying on other components such as of the modular building units 12.

A preferred constmction method for the modular building 10' (which applies also to the building 10) involves constructing the modular building units 12a' and 12b' to substantially assembled fofins at a location which is distanced from a final location for the modular building, suitably in a dedicated factory or facility. The self-contained service pods 50a to 50f are mounted within the internal volumes 46' and 51' of the modular building units 12a' and 12b' at the factory. The assembled units 12a' and 12b' can then be transported to the final location in preparation for connection to the further building unit 14'.

The further building unit 14' is constructed at the final location; typically employing a construction method involving blocks, timber frame, panels etc. as described above. Transport of the modular building units 12a' and 12b' to the fmal location will typically take place only after the further building unit 14' has been constructed to a state in which it is ready to be connected to the modular units. This avoids a requirement to store the modular units 12a' and 12b' on-site for lengthy periods whilst the further building unit 14' is constructed.

In a variation, the modular building units 12a' and 12b' may be transported to the final location and positioned on site, and the further building unit 14' subsequently constructed and coimected to the modular building units. The further building unit 14 may be constructed using the modular building units 12a' and 12b' as a platfona or support for part or parts of the further building unit.

The modular building units 12a' and 12b' are typically transported to the final location in a disconnected state, suitably on a torn/ or truck trailer. The first (or lower) modular building unit I 2a' is located on a prepared foundation or plattbmi located adjacent the further building unit 14', as shown in Fig. 2, and connected to the further building unit. 't he second (or upper) modular building unit 12b' is then positioned on top of the louver unit I 2a (i.e. stacked); and also connected to the further building unit 14'. The upper modular building unit 12b' can be configured to provide an upper or outer roof law the stacked modular building units, which is sealed relative to the further building mit 14' to prevent water ingress. A similar such roof 178 is shown on the building 10 in Fig. 1. Any necessary final fitting-out work can then be carried out to complete the building 10'.

A preferred construction method for the modular building unit 12a' (which also applies to the other building unit 12b', as well as the units 12a and I 2b) comprises the following slims.

The method firstly comprises constructing the structural frame 94 describing the internal volume 46' of the modular building unit 12a', suitably in an off-site factory or facility as explained above. The service pods 50a" to 50d' arc typically constructed in specialised facilities and transported to the factory for installation in the modular building unit I 2a'. It will be understood however that the service pods 50a' to 50d' may be constructed at the same ilictory as the modular building mill 12al The service pods 50a' to 50d' are then positioned within the internal volume of the modular building unit 12a' and emmected to the structural frame 94 as described above. The service pods 50a' to 50d' may be lowered into the building unit frame 94 from above, but could be translated in From the side, for example on rollers or skids (not shown).

the internal volume 46' of the modular building unit 12a' is then at least partially enclosed with a perimeter structure, which is provided by the walls 106a/b and 108a/t). In the illustrated embodiment, this involves connecting the various panels 164 to the frame 94. In a variation however, the perimeter structure may be formed prior to instillation of the pods 50a' to 50d' within the building unit 12a'. This may apply particularly where the pods 50a' to 50d' are to be lowered in. As explained above, the service pods 50a' to 50d' can comprise structural frames (e.g. the frames 110a/b), and the method suitably comprises connecting the structural frames of the service pods to the structural frame 94 of the modular building unit 12a'. This construction process may be particularly suited to mass-production of the modular building units in a factory location, for example on an assembly line.

fuming now to Fig. 8, there is shown a perspective view of a further building 10", comprising modular building units 12a"/12b", in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. The building 10" takes the form of a detached house. Certain features of the building 10" have been removed, for ease of illustration. Like components of the building 10" with the building 10 shown in Figs. 1 to 3 share the same reference munerals, with the addition of the suffix ". Only substantive differences or additional features in comparison to the building 10 will be desmibed.

The modular building units I2a" and 12b" are of like construction to the modular units I 2a' and 12-b' of the building 10a', and will not be described again. The building 10" differs primarily in that it is a fully modular structure, constucted from the modular building units 12a" and 12b", and further modular building units 12c and 12d. The modular building unit I 2c is a lower unit, and the modular building unit I 2d an upper unit that is stacked on the lower unit I2c, in the same way as the units I2b" and I2a". The modular building mits 12a" and 12b" can be considered to form a first section of the building 10", and the units 12c and 12d a further (second) section 14" of the building. The modular building units I2a", 1211", 12c and 12d each extend a full depth of the building (from front to back) and together Iblin the internal volume of the building 10". It will be understood however that other arrangements of modular units are possible (e.g. different numbers of modular units, and/or different orientations of modular units).

The building 10" also differs in that it includes a roof structure 180 that overlies both the first building section provided by the stacked modular units 12a"/I 21r, and the second building section 14". The roof IRO ties the first building section 12a712b" relative to the further section 14", to provide structural rigidity to the constructed building 10". The roof 180 is supported by and connected to both of the building sections 12a"/12b" and 14", but can be arranged to be supported by or from one of the building sections and arranged to extend over the other section. The roof 180' comprises a plurality of roof trusses, one of which is shown and indicated by numeral 182. The roof trusses 182 are each supported by and connected to the building sections, and finmed of any suitable material, including hut not restricted to wood and wood-based products/composites, and cold-formed metal (e.g. LCISd). An external surface 184 of the constructed building 10" is finished in any suitable way, e.g. by cladding it with decorative weatherproofing panels (not shown), or fomung an outer skin of brick/blockwork (and optional cementitious render).

the building 10" also differs in that parts of side walls oldie modular mks 12 a"/12b" are removable, to allow access to the interior of the turas. Specifically, the lower modular unit 12a" has a side wall 106a", and a part of die sidewall is removable to form an aperture 185. Similarly, the upper modular unit 12b" has a side wall 106b"" and a part of the sidewall is removable to form an aperture 187. This can be achieved by releasably attaching said parts of the sidewalls 106a"/1061)" to structure of die units, particularly their structural frames (not shown). This facilitates removal of one or more service pod from within the modular units 12a"/12b", e.g. for maintenance or replacement, as described elsewhere in this document. The pods (not shown) are configured to be translated out of the modular units 12a712b" through the apertures 185/187. In a variation, service pods can be arranged to form die removable portions of the external walls 106a"/106b" which effectively close the apertures 185/187. The pods may therefore be released from the modular units together with (or carrying) said parts of the walls.

It will be understood that the ability to remove such wall 106a/1 06b" portions to form the apertures 185/187 will require access to the removable wall portions in the constructed building 10". This can suitably be achieved by arranging the modular units 12a"/12W' so that they themselves form the outermost surface of the building, or e.g. by cladding the external surface 184 (at least in the region of the modular units) Vlith removable panels or the like.

in a further variation, service pods may be dimensioned so that they can be removed through one or more door or window of the modular building units 12a" and/or 121)", or one or more door or window may be releasably connected to the or a modular building unit in order to facilitate service pod removal. For example, pods may be dimensioned so that they can be removed through a doorway I 89 of the modular building unit I 2a", and/or a door or doors 191a/b mounted in the doorway may be releasably mounted relative to a frame 193 forming the doorway. Alternatively, the frame 193 itself may be removably mounted to the modular unit I 2a "to facilitate pod removal.

In yet another variation, the building 10" could be a hybrid construction of the type shown in Figs. 1 to 5, and the modular building units 12a" and I 21)" may only extend part way from front to hack of the building. The further building section 14" may thus be constructed on site, and may be generally L-shaped. In this variation, other portions of the modular unit walls 106a"/106b" shown in Fig.A may be removable, to facilitate service pod removal.

Turning now to Figs. 9 and 10, there are shown exploded perspective views illustrating general structures of first 12ar" and second 12W" modular building units in accordance with further embodiments of the invention. The modular units 12a"712bm can form part of any one of the buildings 10 to 10" shown in Figs. Ito 8. like components of the modular units 12a'"/I 21am with the modular units I 2a/I 21) shown in Figs. 1 to 3 share the same reference numerals, with the addition of the suffix ". Only substantive differences or additional features in comparison to the building 10 will be described.

The modular units 12a"712bm differ primarily in terms of their intcmal layout, plus the shapes and locations of service pods provided in the modular units. the modular unit 12a"' shown in Fig. 9 is a lower modular unit, and the modular unit 12bm shown in Fig. 10 is all upper modular unit that is stacked on die lower unit in the constructed building.

Service pods 50a", Sob" and 50dm are mountable within an internal volume 46" of the lower modular building unit 12am as self-contained structures, and respectively provide access, sanitary and teclmical functions in the building. Thus pod 50am contains a staircase 18m: pod 50bm a toilet 54" and sink 56": and pod 50dm a washer/drier 68": and hot water storage tank 186. The access pod 50am is located M an area 188 in the modular unit volume 46m, and the sanitary pod Sob" in an area 190. The sanitary pod Sob" is effectively located partly underneath the staircase 18", and so partly in the area 188, extending into a space or recess 192 of the access pod 50a". A doorway 194 providing access into the sanitaly pod Sob" is defined by die pod itself, but a door 195 located in die doorway is shown hi die modular unit 12am.

The modular unit 12am includes a recessed area 196 which, in use, is intended to fomi part of a room pfimmily defined by the further building section, e.g. a living room. 'Ibis can assist in meeting particular planning requirements whilst optimising the equipment provided in die modular unit. In a variation that is not shown in the drawings, die sanitary pod 50bm could be shaped to fit in the area 190, and die technical pod 50dm could be shaped to fit in the area 188.

A service pod 50em is mountable within an internal volume 48"1 of the upper modular building unit 12bm as a self-contained stmcture, and provides a sanitary function. Thus pod 50e" contains a bath 70m, toilet 74" and sink 76m. The sanitary pod SOc'' is located in an area 198 in the modular unit 12bm, and provides the primary bathing facility in the building as there is no ensuite pod in this embodiment (sec pod 5017 in Fig. 7). A utility cupboard is also provided in the modular unit I 21f", in this case as a pod 50g containing e.g. ventilation equipment (such as a MVHR unit -not shown), although may not be provided in pod limn. For example, a housing could be positioned in the internal volume 481" and the MVHR equipment subsequently fitted in the housing.

Various modifications mnay be made to the foregoing without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention.

For example, at least one service pod may be configured, in use, to provide more than one service function.

The further building unit may itself be of a modular construction, configured to be constructed off-site and transported to the final location or connection with the modular building unit housing the one or more service pod. 't he further building unit may therefore be of like construction to the modular building unit housing said service pod. The further building unit may similarly house one or more service pod. More than one further building unit may be provided.

The building may comprise any suitable munber of the modular building units, and may for example comprise more than two such units. The further building unit itself may be made up or constructed from a plurality of sub-mits or sub-structures.

Non-limiting examples of residential buildings falling with the scope of the invention include houses (detached, semi-detached, terraced and single storey/bungalow), as well as apartments and flats. The principles of the invention may however be applicable to non-residential buildings including commercial or industrial buildings, such as offices and factories.

Where the building comprises a plurality of modular building mins, the units may be located side by side and/or at a similar level, and could be spaced apart and/or not connected. This may apply particularly to a single storey Service pods are disclosed which are accessible: from a circulation space within the modular building unit; directly from a living space/internal volume of the further building unit; and without having to pass into or through the further building imit (e.g. from the building exterior). It will be understood that, where there are a plurality of service pods, any desirable range of access options may be provided for the pods, selected from the range disclosed in this document. The selection may depend on factors including the respective service to be provided by the pods.

Further aspects and/or embodiments of the invention may combine the features of one or more aspect and/or embodiment disclosed in this document. Accordingly, such further aspects and/or embodiments may comprise one or more feature selected from one or more aspect or embodiment of the invention disclosed in this document.

Unless explicitly implied by context or stated in the document, the features of any method or process disclosed in this document need not necessarily be performed in the precise order set out in the relevant text and/or drawings. Accordingly, any method or process disclosed in this document may be callable of being perlbrmed in an order other than that specifically set out in the relevant text/drawings, if chnunstances permit.

Features disclosed in this document (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Accordingly, features disclosed in this document may represent only one example of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A building comprising: a modular building unit defining an internal volume, the modular building unit being transportable to a final location for the building in a substantially assembled Ibm1; a further building unit defining an internal volume which provides a living space within the building; and at least one service pod mounted within the internal volume of the modular building unit as a self-contained structure, the at least one service pod providing a service function within the building; in which the modular building unit and the further building unit are connected to define at least part of the building; and in which the internal volume of the modular building unit defines a circulation space which provides access, in use, to both an internal volume of the at least one self-contained service pod and the living space provided by the internal volume of the further building unit, from within the modular building unit.
2. A building as claimed in claim 1 in which at least one service pod comprises an enclosed space forming a room in the building.
3. A building as claimed in either of claims 1 or 2, comprising a plurality of service pods which are each mountable within the internal volume of the modular building unit as self-contained structures, each service pod providing a respective service function within the building.
4. A building as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the service function is selected from the group comprising: an access function; a sanitary function; and a technical function.
5. A building as claimed in any preceding claim In whlcll the at least one service pod provides all access function, and contains a stairway.
6. A building as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the at least one service pod is releasably mounted within the internal volume of the modular building unit.
7. A building as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the modular building unit comprises a structural frame, which provides structural support during use of the modular building unit, and in which the at least one service pod is connected to the structural frame, and optionally in which the at least one service pod comprises a structural flame which is connected to the structural frame of the modular building unit.
8. A building as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the at least one service pod comprises a perimeter structure, the perimeter structure comprising one or more wall.
9. A building as claimed in claim 8 in which all of the walls of said service pod are defined by the pod 10. A building as claimed in claim 8, in which at least one wall of said service pod is defined by the modular building unit.11. A building as claimed in ally one of claims 8 to 10, in which the at least one service pod defines all internal volume which is bordered by the perimeter structure, the perimeter structure comprising one or more of a floor and a roof 12. A building as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, in which the at least one service pod defines at least part of at least one wall of die modular building unit.13. A building as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the at least one service pod defines an internal volume which houses equipment providing the service function, and a doorway which provides access into the internal volume of said pod optionally in which a door is mounted in the doorway and provided integrally with said pod.14. A building as claimed in claim 13, in which at least some of the equipment is mounted to one or more of a walk a floor and a roof of said service pod.15. A building as claimed in either of claims 13 or 14, in which the at least one service pod comprises a structural frame, and in which at least some of the equipment is mounted to the pod structural frame.16. A building as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the circulation space opens on to the internal volume of the further building unit via one or more walkway opening provided by the modular building unit.17. A building as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the circulation space communicates with the internal volume of the at least one service pod so that access Mto said service pod from the living space of the further building unit is provided via the circulation space.18. A building as claimed in any preceding claim, in which at least one service pod communicates directly with the internal volume of the further building unit so that the pod is accessible directly from the living space of the further building unit without passing into the circulation space.19. A building as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the modular building unit has a perimeter which defines a boundary of its internal volume, and in which the at least one service pod is disposed ithin said perimeter.20. A building as claimed in any preceding claim, comprising a plurality of modular building units which are connected to define aL least part of the building, the modular building units each comprising at least one service pod.21. A building as claimed in claim 20, comprising a lower modular building unit and an upper modular building unit stacked on the lower modular building unit, in which the service pod of the lower modular building unit provides an access fimction, and in which the upper modular building unit comprises all opening configured to cooperate with the access function service pod, to facilitate access between internal volumes of the lower and upper modular building units via said service pod.22. A building as claimed in any preceding claim In which the thither building unit is an on-site constmetion at the final location for the building.23. A building as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the modular building unit is configured so that its internal volume communicates directly with the internal vohune of the bather building mat, to facilitate access into the at least one service pod from the living space of the further building unit.24. A building as claimed in ally preceding claim, in which there are a plurality of service pods, at least one of the service pods being connected to at least one other service pod to form a service pod assembly mounted within the internal volume of the modular building unit.25. A building as claimed in any preceding claim, in which there are a plurality of service pods, at least one of the service pods being shaped to receive at least part of one or more other service pod.26. A building system comprising: a modular building unit defining an internal vohune, the modular building unit being transportable to a final location for the building in a substantially assembled form; a further building unit con figured, in use, to define an internal volume which provides a living space within the building; Laid at least one service pod which is mountable within the internal volume of the modular building unit as a self-contained structure, the at least one service pod pmviding, in use, a service function within the building; in which the modular building unit and the further building unit are configured to be connected to define at least part of the building; and in which the internal volume of the modular building unit defines a circulation space which provides access, in use, to both an internal volume of the at least one self-contained service pod mid the living space provided by the internal volume of the further building unit, from within the modular building unit 27. A method of constructing a building comprising the steps of constructing a modular building mit to a substantially assembled form at a location which is distanced from a final location for the building; mounting at least one self-contained service pod within all internal volume of the modular building unit, the at least one service pod configured to provide a service function within the building during use; transporting the modular building unit to the final location in thc substantially assembled form; providing a further building unit at the final location, and arranging the further building unit so that it defines an internal volume which provides a living space within the building during use; connecting the modular building unit with the further building unit at the final location, to define at least part of the building; and arranging the modular building unit so that its internal volume defines a circulation space which provides access, during use, to both an internal vohnne of the at least one self-contained service pod and the living space provided by the internal volume of the further building unit, from within the modular building unit.28. A method as claimed in claim 27, comprising mounting the at least one service pod within the internal volume of the modular building unit, and then transporting the modular building unit to the final location.29. A method as claimed in either of claims 27 or 28, comprising mounting a plurality of self-contained service pods within the internal volume of the modular building unit, and arranging said service pods so that they each provide a respective service function during use.30. A method as claimed in any one of claims 27 to 29, comprising: releasably mounting the at least one service pod within the internal volume of the modular building unit; subsequently removing the at least one service pod from the modular building unit; and A) performing maintenance on the pod before re-mormting the pod within the internal volume; or B) transporting a replacement service pod to the final location and mounting said replacement pod within the internal volume of the modular building unit.3 I. A method as claimed in any one of claims 27 to 30, in which the step of constructing the modular building unit comprises assembling a structural frame for the modular building unit, and in which the step of mounting the al least one servicc pod within the internal volumc comprises connecting said pod to the structural 30 frame.32. A method as claimed in claim 31, comprising providing the at least one service pod with a structural frame, and connecting the structural frame of the at least one service pod to the structural frame of the modular building unit.31 A method as claimed in am one of claims 27 to 32, comprising positioning equipment providing the required service function within an internal volume defined by the at least one service pod prior to mounting said pod within the internal volume of the modular building unit.34. A method as claimed in any one of claims 27 to 33, comprising: constructing a plurality of the modular building units and providing each of the modular building units with at least one self-contained service pod; transporting the modular building units to the final location; and then connecting the modular building units to define at least part of the building.S35. A method as claimed in claim 34, comprising constructing a lower modular building unit and an upper modular building unit, and stacking the upper modular building unit on top of the lower modular building unit.36. A method as claimed in claim 35, comprising mounting a self-contained service pod providing an access function within an internal volume of the lower modular building unit, and providing the upper modular building unit with an opening configured to cooperate with the service pod, to facilitate access between internal volumes of said units via said pod.37. A method as claimed ill any one of claims 27 to 36, comprising: constnteting the further building unit on-site at the final location for the building using a kit of building materials provided at the final location; and then comiecting the modular building unit with the further building unit.38. A method as claimed in any one of claims 27 to 36, comprising: transporting the modular building unit to the final location; and then constructing the further building unit using the modular building unit as a platfonn for parts of the further building unit.