Construction method

Abstract

A method of building a multi-floor structure is disclosed. During construction, at least a portion of a peripheral facade of the structure is arranged to extend beyond an upper working area of the structure by at least two floor heights and to form at least a portion of a safety barrier for the working area, and wherein when the multi-floor structure is built, at least a portion of the peripheral facade is arranged to extend beyond the upper working area of the structure by at least two floor heights. At least one other floor slab of the structure is built above the upper working area. The other floor slabs form a corresponding subsequent upper working area of the structure, and wherein at least a portion of the facade is arranged to extend beyond at least one floor height at the uppermost of the subsequent working area.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of PCT International Patent Application No. 202080093957.9, filed on 23 December 2020, entitled “Construction Method”. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a multi-storey structure having an external facade and a method of erecting or assembling the structure and facade. BACKGROUND

[0003] It is known to construct a facade of a multi-storey structure using prefabricated modular elements that are fixed to the multi-storey structure after the structure is erected. In some forms, known methods of constructing a multi-storey structure require a safety barrier or scaffolding to allow prefabricated facade elements to be added to the floor of any level of the structure to provide a wall, and in some forms, windows of the structure. Known methods of erecting a multi-storey structure can include the steps of: i) erecting scaffolding or perimeter fencing; ii) erecting support columns extending upwardly from the ground or floor; iii) erecting formwork for an upper floor; iv) forming the upper floor; v) repeating the above steps until the structure reaches the desired height; vi) removing the scaffolding or perimeter fencing; and vii) attaching an external facade to the structure. Alternatively, known methods can include constructing a safety barrier on any level of the multi-storey structure and utilising a safety harness to prevent falling.

[0004] It will be understood that if reference is made herein to any prior art, such reference does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in Australia or in any other country. SUMMARY

[0005] Broadly, a method of erecting a multi-storey structure is disclosed in which a facade is installed prior to installing a floor. In this way, this method reverses the conventional approach of first constructing a floor structure of a building and then attaching a facade to this floor structure. Furthermore, the internal structure can effectively be constructed from the inside out, with the facade forming a safety barrier fence for this construction.

[0006] The construction process can follow an iterative approach in which a portion of the facade is installed, a floor is erected, the facade is extended so as to then allow the next floor to be erected, and so on.

[0007] The method can have the advantage of allowing a multi-storey structure to be constructed without the need for scaffolding or perimeter enclosures. This can save material costs in construction and also significantly improve the construction time both. As the facade is constructed prior to the floors of the multi-storey building, to the extent that at least one subsequent floor is erected within the enclosure of the facade, a new construction process is provided which improves the speed of floor construction as no separate safety barrier needs to be installed when installing the floor, whilst allowing construction workers and equipment to work within the enclosure of the building to erect the subsequent floor. Furthermore, the facade can provide integrated connectors to allow rapid connection of subsequent floors to the facade.

[0008] In one aspect, a method of erecting a multi-storey structure having a facade disposed around at least a portion of the perimeter of the multi-storey structure is disclosed, wherein at least a portion of the facade is disposed to extend at least two storey heights above an upper working area of the structure and forms at least a portion of a safety enclosure for the working area during construction, and wherein at least one other floor of the structure is erected above the upper working area as the multi-storey structure is erected, the or each other floor forming a respective subsequent upper working area of the structure, and wherein at least a portion of the facade is disposed to extend at least one storey height above the uppermost subsequent working area and forms at least a portion of a safety enclosure for the uppermost subsequent working area.

[0009] In some forms, the or each other floor is formed such that the floor connects with the facade.

[0010] In some forms, as the uppermost subsequent working area is formed, the height of the facade is increased to extend at least two storey heights above the uppermost subsequent working area to enable at least one other floor of the structure to be erected whilst providing a safety enclosure for the construction.

[0011] In other aspects, a method of constructing a multi-storey building is disclosed, the method comprising: positioning a first facade assembly around at least a portion of the perimeter of the multi-storey building, the facade assembly comprising a facade structure of at least one storey height, the facade structure being positioned such that it extends upwardly above an upper working area of the building and forms part of a safety enclosure for the working area; positioning a second facade assembly such that it extends upwardly from the first facade assembly, the second facade assembly comprising a second facade structure; connecting a floor to at least one of the first and second facade assemblies such that the floor forms an uppermost floor erected above the upper working area.

[0012] In some forms, other facade components are positioned to extend upwardly from the second facade component, such that the exterior facade extends at least two floor heights above the uppermost floor slab.

[0013] Further, a facade component is disclosed that is configured to be provided around at least a portion of the perimeter of a multi-story building during construction, and arranged to extend beyond an upper work area of the building and form part of a safety enclosure for that work area, the facade component further arranged to be connected to at least one other floor slab erected above the upper work area, the facade component comprising a facade structure arranged to be connected to at least one other facade component above the facade structure.

[0014] In some forms, the facade component includes a support system that provides support for the facade structure prior to connecting the other floor slab to the facade component.

[0015] In some forms, the support system is adjustable to allow for angular adjustment of the facade structure relative to the upper work area.

[0016] In some forms, the facade is formed from a plurality of panels, and the panels form at least part of the safety barrier.

[0017] In some forms, the facade is formed as a frame. In some forms, the frame is formed from a plurality of frames connected together. In some forms, the frames form part of the facade panels. In other forms, the frames form part of modules (with more three-dimensional shapes) that are interconnected together.

[0018] The use of frame structures for the facade has the advantage that they can have a higher strength to weight ratio than panels, they can be arranged to simply connect together (using mechanical fasteners etc.), and they can support a variety of infill member materials and structures. For example, the infill member can be a window or door, or an alternative barrier material. Further, the frame can be used to support or carry other components, such as services, loading platforms, balconies etc.

[0019] In one form, the modules are self-supporting. This has the advantage of enabling the facade to be constructed more quickly and can avoid the need for struts etc.

[0020] In some forms, the facade component can incorporate temporary support members that are used when the first floor slab is installed and formed, but are removed after the floor slab is erected, and thus do not form part of the final building structure. In some cases, these temporary supports can enable the facade component to be self-supporting during installation.

[0021] A method of constructing a multi-storey building is also disclosed, the method comprising positioning a first facade assembly around at least a portion of the perimeter of the multi-storey building, the facade assembly being in the form of a module and comprising a facade structure of at least one storey height, the facade structure being positioned such that it extends upwards beyond an upper working area of the building and forms part of a safety enclosure for the working area; In some forms, the modules of the facade assembly are self-supporting and arranged to be positioned side by side with other facade assembly modules and one on top of the other arrangement.

[0022] In some forms, the facade panels or modules are arranged to be approximately the storey height of the building. Depending on the height, this can be approximately 3 to 4 metres, but in some cases, depending on the design specifications of the building, this can be greater or less than this height.

[0023] When the facade assembly has a more modular structure, the depth of the modules can be set to different depths. In some forms, these depths are 300 mm, 600 mm, 1.2 m or 2.4 m. In some forms, the modules can form part of the final floor structure of the building.

[0024] In some forms, the floor of the building is arranged to be built on the upper or lower edge of the panels or modules. In some forms, the floor can straddle the joints between adjacent panels. In some forms, the facade assembly can include connectors to facilitate the connection of the floor to the facade.

[0025] The method can have the advantage of allowing a multi-storey structure to be constructed without the need for expensive scaffolding or perimeter enclosures. The method can also have the advantage of enhancing safety. This is because the facade can act as a perimeter enclosure or scaffolding, preventing falls from the structure. The method means that the exterior facade or wall of the structure and the scaffolding can be substantially integral.

[0026] In some forms, the facade panels are composed of a material strong enough to act as a fall prevention device and a permanent facade including windows.

[0027] In some forms, the facade panels prevent people from falling from the structure during construction and after construction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0028] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figures 1A-1C A method of one embodiment of the disclosure is depicted using components of one embodiment of the disclosure; Figures 2A-2C A method of one embodiment of the disclosure is depicted using components of one embodiment of the disclosure; Figures 3A-3C A method of one embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted using components of one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 4 Embodiments of modules arranged around a perimeter of a structure to form a facade of a multi-story structure are depicted.

[0030] Figures 5-7 Embodiments of self-supporting modules having precast floor sections are depicted.

[0031] Figures 8-10 Embodiments of self-supporting modules having reinforcing bars to be incorporated into cast-in-place floors are depicted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, depicted in the drawings, and defined in the claims are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments can be utilized, and other changes can be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the Figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are implicitly contemplated herein.

[0033] A method of erecting a multi-story structure having a facade disposed around at least a portion of a perimeter of the multi-story structure is disclosed, wherein at least a portion of the facade is disposed to extend beyond an upper work area of the structure during construction, and forms at least a portion of a safety barrier for the work area. In some forms, the facade extends at least two stories above the upper work area of the structure.

[0034] The method can include installing a facade assembly that extends at least two stories above the most recently installed story, then installing one or more stories, then installing additional facade assemblies so that the facade assembly is always at least one story above the work space on the uppermost story. The facade assembly includes a permanent facade that acts as a scaffold or fall arrest device, and provides a permanent architectural fence that remains on the structure.

[0035] A method of erecting a multi-storey structure having a facade arranged around at least a portion of a perimeter of the multi-storey structure is disclosed, wherein at least a portion of the facade is arranged to extend at least two storey heights above an upper work area of the structure and to form at least a portion of a safety barrier for the work area during construction, and wherein at least one further floor of the structure is erected above the upper work area when erecting the multi-storey structure, the or each further floor forming a respective subsequent upper work area of the structure, and wherein at least a portion of the facade is arranged to extend at least one storey height above an uppermost floor of the subsequent work area and to form at least a portion of an uppermost safety barrier for the subsequent work area.

[0036] A method of constructing a multi-storey building is disclosed, the method comprising positioning a first facade assembly around at least a portion of a perimeter of the multi-storey building, the facade assembly comprising a facade structure of at least one storey height positioned such that it extends upwardly above an upper work area of the building and forms part of a safety fence for the work area; positioning a second facade assembly extending upwardly from the first facade assembly, the second facade assembly comprising a second facade structure; connecting a floor to at least the first facade assembly such that the floor forms an uppermost floor, the uppermost floor being erected above the upper work area.

[0037] In some forms, the method further comprises positioning a further facade assembly extending upwardly from the second facade assembly such that an exterior facade of at least two storey heights extends above the uppermost floor.

[0038] In some forms, the facade assembly further comprises a support structure.

[0039] In some forms, the method comprises adjusting an angle of the facade structure relative to the floor using the support structure of the respective facade assembly. In some forms, the method comprises removing at least a portion of the support structure from the building.

[0040] Further, a facade assembly configured to be arranged around at least a portion of a perimeter of a multi-storey building during construction and arranged to extend above an upper work area of the building and form part of a safety fence for the work area is disclosed, the facade assembly further arranged to be connected to at least one further floor erected above the upper work area, the facade assembly comprising a facade structure arranged to be connected to at least one further facade assembly above the facade structure.

[0041] In some forms, the assembly comprises a support system to provide support for the facade structure prior to connecting the further floor to the facade assembly.

[0042] In some forms, the support system is adjustable to allow adjustment of the angle of the facade structure relative to the upper working area.

[0043] In some forms, the support structure is removable from the facade structure.

[0044] In some forms, the support structure comprises an upright section and a foot arranged to extend inwardly into the building in use.

[0045] In some forms, the foot forms an extension of a floor of the building.

[0046] In some forms, the support system comprises at least one brace extending between the foot and the upright section.

[0047] In some forms, the brace is extendable to change the angle of the upright section relative to the floor.

[0048] In some forms, the facade structure and support system of the facade assembly are provided as a module.

[0049] In some forms, the facade structure comprises a facade connector configured to connect the facade structure to other facade assemblies.

[0050] In some forms, the facade assembly is formed from a plurality of panels, and the panels form at least part of a safety barrier.

[0051] In some forms, the facade assembly comprises one or more connection regions for connection to one or more floors. In some forms, the connection regions are wrapped by the floor when the floor is formed.

[0052] In some forms of erecting the structure, at least part of the facade assembly is constructed before the uppermost floor, such that the facade extends above the floor height to be constructed on to form a safety barrier for the next floor.

[0053] The method allows workers to safely work on the upper working area without the need for separate fall barriers or scaffolding. The facade assembly is designed such that at least part of the facade panels forming the facade extend above any working area during construction to prevent falls from the working area.

[0054] In some forms, the upper floor connection member comprises a hook or bar or other formed connection extending from the interior face of the facade assembly.

[0055] In some forms, the upper floor connection member is welded to the facade assembly.

[0056] In some forms, the upper floor connection member is bolted to the facade assembly.

[0057] In some forms, the method further includes attaching the bottom edges of a plurality of second-layer facade components to the top edges of a plurality of facade panel components.

[0058] In some forms, the facade panels are positioned adjacent to each other.

[0059] In some forms, the facade panels are made of structural steel. In some forms, the facade panels include ventilation openings. In some forms, the facade panels are in the form of slats, grids, or perforated steel. In some forms, the facade panels are decorative.

[0060] In some forms, the facade panel includes a structural frame and an exterior surface joined to the structural frame. In some forms, the exterior surface is waterproof. In some forms, the facade panel further includes an interior surface joined to the structural frame. In some forms, insulation material is located between the exterior and interior surfaces. In some forms, the facade panel includes windows or glass.

[0061] In some forms, the facade components are formed as a modular frame structure with an inner frame and an outer frame. In some forms, the facade structure is formed on the outer frame. In some forms, the facade structure is formed on the inner frame and the outer frame is arranged as the external feature of the building.

[0062] In some forms, the facade panels can be solid composite panels.

[0063] In some forms, the facade panels or modules are made of aluminum, glass, a combination of aluminum and glass, aluminum, composite materials, concrete, steel, steel and glass, or any other structural material. In some forms, the facade panels or cladding may be load-bearing. In some forms, when the cladding is load-bearing, it is made of concrete, structural steel, or other load-bearing materials.

[0064] In some forms, the panels are configured to serve as a permanent facade for fall protection systems and structures.

[0065] Referring now to Figure 1, a method for constructing multi-story buildings (such as multi-story parking garages, apartment buildings, or high-rise structures with facades) is disclosed. In the form shown, the multi-story building can be a parking structure.

[0066] like Figure 1A As shown, facade component 10 is being installed above previously installed facade component 11, such that facade component 10 and facade component 11 combine to form a two-story facade component that extends upward from the upper floor slab 17. When facade component 10 is installed, the exterior facade 100 of the entire structure extends two stories above the uppermost floor slab.

[0067] The facade assembly 10 is installed as a module and comprises a facade structure 12 (in the form of steel panels) and a lower horizontal section 13. The facade assembly also comprises a support structure 15 which comprises supports and bracing to support and align the facade assembly.

[0068] The facade assembly 10 further comprises connectors 16. In the form shown, the connectors are in the form of reinforcing bars which extend outwardly from the lower horizontal section 13.

[0069] The upper working area 17 is on the uppermost floor. The facade assembly extends two floors above the working area 17.

[0070] As shown in Figure 1B Once the module 10 is installed, further floors 18 are built above the upper working area 17 and the further floors 18 are connected to the facade assembly at the connectors 16. Further temporary supports 22 can be included when the floors are built. In the form shown, the connectors extend at the connection between the facade assembly 10 and the previously installed facade assembly 11. When the upper floor 18 is built, the connectors 16 in the form of reinforcing bars are encased and cast in the concrete. Also as shown in Figure 1B As shown in

[0071] As shown in Figure 1C Once the new uppermost floor is built, further facade assemblies 21 are located above the facade assembly 10 so that the facade 20 remains two floor heights above the uppermost floor.

[0072] Once the subsequent floors are built, the temporary supports which form part of the facade assembly on the lower floors can be removed, leaving the final facade panels 12 and horizontal sections 13 which form part of the respective floors.

[0073] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, safety crash barriers 19 and wheel chocks 20 can be incorporated into the facade assembly.

[0074] The facade assembly as shown is arranged to be approximately the floor height of the building. Depending on this height, this can be approximately 3 to 4 metres, but in some cases, depending on the design specification of the building, this can be greater or less than this height.

[0075] When the facade assembly has a more modular construction as shown in the figures, the depth of the modules can be set to different depths. In some forms, these depths are 300 mm, 600 mm, 1.2 m or 2.4 m.

[0076] In some forms, the modules can form part of the final floor structure of the building. In Figures 1a to Figure 1CIn this case, the facade components are arranged to have a depth of approximately 1.2 m.

[0077] Frame components 10 and 11 can be supplied to the site as integrated units and lifted into place as individual units. Although temporary support components are required for the frame components, and the frame components extend above the upper work area, these temporary supports can be removed once the floor slab is installed, leaving the facade, floor slab, and other fixtures that remain attached to the structure.

[0078] The multi-story structure 10 includes a plurality of facade panels 12 forming an exterior facade 13 of the multi-story structure. Floor slabs 14 of the multi-story structure are contained within the facade 13. Each facade panel 12 includes a panel joint section 15 configured to allow engagement with an upper or lower facade panel within the exterior facade 13. The facade panel 12 further includes a floor connection section 17 adapted to connect or engage the floor slab 14 with the facade panel 12.

[0079] Figure 1 illustrates one construction method for a multi-story parking garage or other structure including crash barriers. Alternative embodiments are available.

[0080] Referring now to Figure 2, an embodiment of a method for constructing a multi-story structure with an exterior facade is shown. The multi-story structure may include schools, apartments, offices, shopping malls, hospitals, parking lots, high-rise buildings, or any type of structure. The method includes installing facade components such that the facade panels of the facade components extend two floor slabs upwards from the uppermost floor slab before work is carried out on the uppermost floor slab.

[0081] like Figure 2A As shown, facade assembly 10 is mounted above a previously installed facade assembly 11, such that assemblies 10 and 11 combine to form two floor facade assemblies that extend upwards from the upper floor slab 17. Facade assembly 10 includes a facade panel 12 and a lower horizontal section 13. The facade assembly also includes a support structure 15, which includes supports and brackets for supporting and aligning the facade assembly. Facade structure 12 may be configured to have a support frame 24 and an outer infill structure that forms the exterior of the structure and may be glass or the like.

[0082] As shown in Figure 2, the facade components are arranged to approximately the building's floor height. Depending on this height, this can be approximately 3 to 4 meters, but in some cases, depending on the building's design specifications, it can be greater or less than this height.

[0083] When the facade assembly has a more modular construction as shown in the figures, the modules can be provided in different depths. In some forms, these depths are 300 mm, 600 mm, 1.2 m or 2.4 m.

[0084] In some forms, the modules can form part of the final floor structure of the building. In Figures 2A-2C the case, the facade assembly is arranged to have a depth of about 600 m.

[0085] The facade assembly 10 further comprises connectors 16. In the form shown, the connectors are in the form of reinforcing bars extending outwardly from the lower horizontal section 13.

[0086] The upper work area 17 is located on the uppermost floor. The facade assembly extends two floors above the work area 17 and forms a safety barrier for workers on the construction site.

[0087] As Figure 2B shown in the figures, the upper floor 18 is built above the upper work area 17 and is connected with the facade assembly at the connectors. In the form shown, the connectors extend at the connection between the facade assembly 10 and the previously installed facade assembly 11. When the upper floor 18 is built, the connectors 16 in the form of reinforcing bars are encased and cast in the concrete. Also as Figure 2B shown in the figures, the supports 15 are temporary in some forms and can be removed.

[0088] As Figure 2C shown in the figures, once the new uppermost floor is built, further facade assemblies 21 are located above the facade assembly 10 so that the facade 20 remains two floor heights above the uppermost floor.

[0089] Referring now to Figure 3, further embodiments of a method of constructing a multi-storey structure with a facade are shown. The multi-storey structure can comprise a school, an apartment, an office, a shopping centre, a hospital, a car park, a high-rise building or any type of structure. The method comprises installing a facade assembly so that the facade panels of the facade assembly extend two floors in an upward direction on the uppermost floor before work is carried out on the uppermost floor.

[0090] As Figure 3A shown in the figures, the facade assembly 10 is in a modular form and is installed above the previously installed facade assembly 11 so that the facade assembly 10 and the facade assembly 11 combine to form a two-storey facade assembly that is built to extend upwardly from the upper floor 17. The facade assembly 10 comprises a facade panel 12 and a lower horizontal section 13. The facade assembly further comprises a support structure 15 that comprises supports and braces to support and align the facade assembly.

[0091] The facade assembly 10 further comprises connectors 16. In the form shown, the connectors are in the form of reinforcing bars extending outwardly from the lower horizontal section 13.

[0092] The upper working area 17 is located on the uppermost floor. The facade assembly extends two floors above the working area 17.

[0093] As Figure 3B shown in Figure 2B , the support 15 is temporary in some forms and can be removed.

[0094] As Figure 3C shown in , once the new uppermost floor is constructed, further facade assemblies 21 are located above the facade assembly 10 so that the facade 20 remains two floor heights above the uppermost floor.

[0095] Figures 3A-3C The arrangement shown is similar to Figures 2A-2C . The main difference is that the width of the facade assembly is wider and is approximately 1.2 m.

[0096] According to this design, one or more further facade assemblies can be erected on the existing installed facade assembly, if required, so that the facade extends more than two floors above any floor. One floor height is considered to be sufficient to ensure adequate safety as the facade is arranged to provide a safety barrier for workers assembling the building's internal structure and floors. However, further floor heights are catered for within the disclosed method, if required. Further support structures and increased strength of the facade structure can be required if further extension of the facade is desired due to the extended facade height needing to accommodate wind loads etc.

[0097] A multi-story structure of the present disclosure can be constructed by positioning the lowermost story comprising a plurality of facade assemblies around the lower floor or ground floor of the structure. The lowermost facade panel can be at or above the ground level on the first floor of the structure, or intermediate the ground and the first floor. The upper stories of the facade assemblies are positioned above the lower stories of the facade assemblies. A floor connection section 17 is positioned on the interior face of the facade assemblies. Once the upper floor facade assemblies are positioned, forms and support columns or the like for the floor are put in place. The floor is then built, constructed or cast around the floor connection sections, such that the floor and facade assemblies are joined. Workers can then position the next facade assembly, such that the exterior facade of the structure still extends two stories above the uppermost floor. The process continues until the structure reaches the desired number of stories.

[0098] It can be seen that throughout the process, the facade is positioned and extends upward at least two stories before the higher stories are built. This allows the facade to act as a fall arrest screen, and allows the upper work area to be safely positioned to the uppermost floor. Once the project is complete, the facade remains the exterior wall or facade of the structure.

[0099] The floors can be supported by the structure. In some forms, the floors can be supported by the facade panels. In this form, the panels are load bearing and composed of a material that can bear a load. In alternative forms, the floors can be supported by independent steel or concrete columns.

[0100] The floors can be composed of any floor material. In some forms, the floors are formed of precast concrete. In other forms, the floors include steel forms on which concrete is cast. In some forms, the floors include reinforced concrete. In some forms, the floors include structural steel and decorative panels. In some forms, the floors include structural wood, in some forms, the floors are composed of composite materials.

[0101] In some forms, the panels of the present disclosure can include a panel frame that acts as part of the permanent facade of the building, with a web of fill material that can be replaced. For example, the frame can include removable fill panels that can be replaced with glass or other materials. In other forms, the panels can include a frame and wall material that will act as the permanent facade of the building, and an interior protective material that can be removed once construction is complete. For example, the panels can include a glass exterior and a board or polymer interior removable material.

[0102] Figures 4-10A method of constructing a multi-story structure is disclosed in which facades can be provided in the form of modules 950 or incorporated as part of modules 950. The modules can be arranged to extend around the perimeter of the structure to form the facade of the multi-story structure 900 and in some embodiments also form part of the floor space of the structure.

[0103] In one form shown, the modules 950 comprise a floor portion 953 and a plurality of walls extending from the floor portion. In Figures 4-10 In the form shown in FIG. 1 1, the modules 950 have a cuboid profile. In other forms, the modules can be shaped to have a polygonal profile with more than four sides, for example an octagonal profile. In another example, modules arranged in side-by-side relationship with an octagonal profile can provide an external profile to the multi-story structure 900, for example a profile with similar curvature. In this way, the shape provided to the modules can be determined by the architectural design of the particular multi-story structure. In some forms, the barrier structures (e.g. windows, doors and / or walls) of the facade can be provided on the outer walls of the modules or can be provided on the inner walls, such that the structure 500 can have an external frame, balcony or the like.

[0104] The modules are characterized in that they provide additional properties to the facade compared to a facade made only of barrier structures. Thus, the modules can have improved load bearing properties, can be more stable and / or can provide additional functional requirements (e.g. for noise control, heating / cooling and / or services). The plurality of walls in the self-supporting modules also provide lateral stability to the modules. This lateral stability allows the modules to be self-supporting, or at least require less temporary bracing on planar facade members. In some forms, the modules are substantially self-supporting, where additional support can be provided to the adjacent multi-story structure 900 by, for example, tie bars, struts or the like. In this form, the tie bars can be provided temporarily to assist in supporting the modules during construction of the multi-story structure. An advantage of this form of module is that fewer connectors are required compared to individually arranged facade panels (i.e. panels that are not pre-fabricated into modules).

[0105] In some other forms, the modules 950 are configured to stand alone and do not require mounting to the adjacent multi-story structure 900 by, for example, tie bars. Advantageously, this eliminates the need for temporary struts to build the modules, thus simplifying the construction process. In line with the previous embodiments, the facade modules can be mounted such that they extend at least two stories above an existing work area (a floor of the building), then a subsequent floor is mounted and additional stories of facade modules are mounted to maintain the facade extension of at least two stories. This allows for a more efficient construction technique.

[0106] The modules 950 can withstand structural loads over a wider surface than a single facade panel. Advantageously, this provides improved stability to the modules during construction of the multi-story structure.

[0107] In some forms, the walls and floor 953 of the module define interior spaces that can support various functions. Referring to Figure 4 , the self-supporting module is configured as a balcony module 950a, an enclosed balcony module 950b, and a module without a balcony 950c.

[0108] As Figure 4 illustrated, any arrangement of self-supporting modules can be provided in a multi-story structure. For example, modules used as balconies can be arranged adjacent to modules used as enclosed balconies. The arrangement of modules can be selected according to the specific architectural design of the structure.

[0109] In some forms, the module 950 can be used to provide shielding for the multi-story structure. For example, by providing insulation means, the interior spaces defined by the module can be used to shield the multi-story structure from heat. It is further contemplated that the module can shield light from entering the multi-story structure. Alternatively, the module can be configured to facilitate the penetration of light into the multi-story structure, for example, for natural lighting.

[0110] In some other forms, the module can be used to support services, such as ventilation, air conditioning, electrical cables, water pipes, sewer or drain pipes, etc. Adjacent modules can be configured so as to provide access between the modules. For example, doorways can be provided between adjacent modules. In another example, adjacent modules are not separated by walls so as to provide an uninterrupted passageway between the modules.

[0111] The self-supporting modules can be assembled side-by-side or one on top of the other around the structure 900. As Figure 4 illustrated in , the modules 950 are arranged in place on the multi-story structure 900 by, for example, a crane. Further, the modules 950 can be transported to the construction site of the multi-story structure by truck. Advantageously, in a pre-assembled and self-supporting arrangement, the modules can be transported by both truck and crane. This helps to improve the efficiency of construction of the multi-story building. Further, the modules can be installed in a single (story) height unit or multiple height units, as required.

[0112] Referring now to Figures 5-10 , in some forms, the module 950 includes a floor portion 953 and a plurality of walls extending from the floor portion. In the form illustrated in Figures 5-7 , the floor portion is a pre-formed composite floor that incorporates reinforcing bars (rebar). In Figures 8-10In the form shown in FIG. 9, the floor portion 953 includes reinforcing bars (rebar) 959 configured to be incorporated into a poured floor. In some forms, the floor portion can include a permanent form, while in other forms, a removable form can be utilized. When the floor portion 953 is poured, the rebar 959 is incorporated between the floor portion 953 of the module 950 and the floor 914 of the structure 900.

[0113] In Figures 5-10 In the two forms shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the rebar can be configured to extend from the floor portion 953 as a connector 920 for connecting the floor portion 953 to the structure 900. The connector can be configured and positioned such that, after the module 950 is positioned on the structure 900, the floor 914 can be poured to incorporate the connector as a reinforcement of the floor.

[0114] Referring to Figures 5-10 The walls extending from the floor portion 953 of the module 950 can take the form of an inner wall 957, an outer wall 951, and a side wall 956. The inner and outer walls are spaced apart from one another in a direction away from the structure 900. The side wall 956 connects the inner wall 957 and the outer wall 951.

[0115] In some forms, and as shown in Figure 7 and Figure 10 In some other forms, and as shown in Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 , Figure 9 The outer wall 951, the inner wall 957, and the side wall 956 can also include an upper framing member 911, as shown best in

[0116] In some forms, the walls are panelized and can have an exterior face 947 and an interior face 949, with a cavity between the exterior and interior faces that can contain insulation material. The exterior face is typically an outward facing panel that can be waterproof and can be composed of a non-combustible cladding, a cement panel or cementitious panel, aluminum, or any other structural material used for building facades. The interior face is typically an inward facing panel, i.e., a panel facing the interior space of the module and can include a gypsum panel or an alternative interior facade material.

[0117] The walls of the module 950 can include an opening 929, which can take the form of a window, a door, or a louver panel extending through the exterior and interior faces of the outer wall, the inner wall, or the side wall.

[0118] Referring to Figure 5 and Figure 8In some forms, the self-supporting module 950 is a balcony module 950a, where the module includes a balcony or other platform. The balcony module includes an inner wall 957 and an outer wall 951, which are spaced apart by side walls 956. The outer wall can include an upper wall member 911 and a lower barrier 918 positioned around a lower portion of the outer wall and adjacent to a floor portion 953. In some forms, the lower barrier can be a railing extending between the side walls 956. The inner wall of the balcony module 950a can include an opening 929 in the form of a door or window.

[0119] Reference is made to Figure 6 and Figure 9 In some forms, the self-supporting module 950 is a closed balcony module 950b. The main difference between the closed balcony module 950b and the balcony module 950a is the addition of a fixed window 929 extending between the lower barrier 918 and the upper wall member 911 for closing the balcony module. In some forms, the balcony module 950b includes a door or window in the form of an opening 929 in the inner wall 957. Figure 6 Figure 9 In the forms shown in

[0120] Reference is now made to Figure 7 and Figure 10 In some forms, the self-supporting module 950 is substantially closed, such that it does not include a balcony. The main difference between the self-supporting module 950c and the balcony modules 950a and 950b is that the self-supporting module is closed by an outer wall and side walls and does not include an inner wall. The module 950c is open on one side to abut a multi-story structure, thereby providing access to the module.

[0121] In the forms shown in Figure 7 Figure 10 In some forms, the other wall portion 952 extends from the outer wall towards the upper wall member 911 extending between the side walls 956. The other wall portion serves to subdivide the module and can provide further lateral stability to the module.

[0122] The facade modules disclosed above can be made of solid panel construction, or can be formed as a skeleton frame (typically with steel or metal load bearing members, with infill members as required).

[0123] Changes and modifications can be made to the described embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0124] In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as "comprising," "including," "carrying," "having," "containing," "involving," "holding," "composed of," and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases "consisting of and "consisting essentially of shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, in contrast to the open-ended transitional phrases.​​

[0125] The present application provides the following embodiments: Embodiment 1. A method of constructing a multi-storey structure having a facade arranged around at least a portion of the perimeter of the multi-storey structure, wherein at least a portion of the facade is arranged to extend at least two storey heights above an upper working area of the structure and to form at least a portion of a safety barrier for the working area during construction, and wherein at least one further floor of the structure is constructed above the upper working area as the multi-storey structure is constructed, the or each further floor forming a respective subsequent upper working area of the structure, and wherein at least a portion of the facade is arranged to extend at least one storey height above the uppermost subsequent working area and to form at least a portion of a safety barrier for the uppermost subsequent working area.

[0126] Embodiment 2. A method of constructing a multi-storey structure according to embodiment 1, wherein the or each further floor is formed such that it is connected to the facade.

[0127] Embodiment 3. A method of constructing a multi-storey structure according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein once the uppermost subsequent working area is formed, the height of the facade is increased to extend at least two storey heights above the uppermost subsequent working area to enable at least one further floor of the structure to be constructed whilst providing a safety barrier for the construction.

[0128] Embodiment 4. A method of constructing a multi-storey structure according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the facade is formed from a plurality of connected facade components.

[0129] Embodiment 5. A method of constructing a multi-storey structure according to embodiment 4, wherein the facade is formed as a frame.

[0130] Embodiment 6. A method of constructing a multi-storey structure according to embodiment 5, wherein the facade is formed from a plurality of connected facade components, the facade components being in the form of modules and each module comprising a frame which in use forms part of the facade frame.

[0131] Embodiment 7. A method of constructing a multi-storey building, the method comprising: positioning a first facade component around at least a portion of the perimeter of the multi-storey building, the facade component comprising a facade structure of at least one storey height, the facade structure being positioned such that it extends upwards above an upper working area of the building and forms part of a safety fence for the working area; positioning a second facade assembly such that it extends upwardly from the first facade assembly, the second facade assembly comprising a second facade structure; connecting a floor to at least the first facade assembly such that the floor forms an uppermost floor, the uppermost floor being built above the upper working area.

[0132] Embodiment 8. A method according to embodiment 7, further comprising positioning further facade assemblies extending upwardly from the second facade assembly such that an exterior facade of at least two floor heights extends above the uppermost floor.

[0133] Embodiment 9. A method according to any one of embodiments 4 to 8, wherein the facade assembly further comprises a support structure.

[0134] Embodiment 10. A method according to embodiment 9, further comprising using the support structure of a respective facade assembly to adjust the angle of the facade structure relative to the floor.

[0135] Embodiment 11. A method according to embodiment 9 or 10, further comprising removing at least a portion of the support structure from the building.

[0136] Embodiment 12. A method of constructing a multi-storey building, the method comprising: positioning a first facade assembly around at least a portion of the perimeter of a multi-storey building, the facade assembly being in the form of a module and comprising a facade structure of at least one floor height, the facade structure being positioned such that it extends upwardly beyond an upper working area of the building and forms part of a safety enclosure for the working area.

[0137] Embodiment 13. A method according to embodiment 12, wherein the module of the facade assembly is self-supporting and arranged to be positioned alongside other facade assembly modules and on top of one another.

[0138] Embodiment 14. A method according to embodiment 12 or 13, wherein the module is generally cuboid.

[0139] Embodiment 15. A method according to any one of embodiments 4 to 14, wherein the facade assembly has a base, the base forming part of a floor of the building.

[0140] Embodiment 16. A facade assembly configured to be provided around at least a portion of a perimeter of a multi-storey building during construction and arranged to extend beyond an upper work area of the building and form part of a safety enclosure for the work area, the facade assembly further arranged to be connected to at least one other floor slab built above the upper work area, the facade assembly comprising a facade structure arranged to be connected to at least one other facade assembly positioned above the facade structure.

[0141] Embodiment 17. The facade assembly according to embodiment 16, further comprising a support system providing support for the facade structure prior to connecting the other floor slab to the facade assembly.

[0142] Embodiment 18. The facade assembly according to embodiment 17, wherein the support system is adjustable to allow angular adjustment of the facade structure relative to the upper work area.

[0143] Embodiment 19. The facade assembly according to embodiment 17 or 18, wherein the support system is removable from the facade structure.

[0144] Embodiment 20. The facade assembly according to any one of embodiments 16 to 19, wherein the support system comprises an upright section and a foot arranged to extend inwardly into the building in use.

[0145] Embodiment 21. The facade assembly according to embodiment 20, wherein the foot forms an extension of a floor slab of the building.

[0146] Embodiment 22. The facade assembly according to embodiment 20 or 21, wherein the support system comprises at least one brace extending between the foot and the upright section.

[0147] Embodiment 23. The facade assembly according to embodiment 22, wherein the brace is extendable to change an angle of the upright section relative to the floor slab.

[0148] Embodiment 24. The facade assembly according to any one of embodiments 16 to 23, wherein the facade structure and support system of the facade assembly are provided as a module.

[0149] Embodiment 25. The facade assembly according to any one of embodiments 16 to 24, wherein the facade structure comprises a facade connector configured to connect the facade structure to the other facade assembly.

[0150] Embodiment 26. A facade assembly according to any one of Embodiments 16 to 25, wherein the facade structure is in the form of a self-supporting module.

[0151] Embodiment 27. A facade configured to be provided around at least a portion of a perimeter of a multi-storey structure, wherein at least a portion of the facade is provided to extend at least two storey heights beyond an upper working area of the structure and to form at least a portion of a safety barrier for the working area and a subsequent working area of at least one other floor slab erected above the upper working area during construction.

[0152] Embodiment 28. The facade according to Embodiment 27, wherein the facade is formed from a plurality of connected facade assemblies.

[0153] Embodiment 29. The facade according to Embodiment 27, wherein the facade is formed as a frame.

[0154] Embodiment 30. The facade according to Embodiment 29, wherein the facade is formed from a plurality of connected facade modules, each module comprising a frame which in use forms part of the respective inner and outer frames.

[0155] Embodiment 31. A facade frame for constructing a structure having an external facade, the frame comprising: an inner frame; an outer frame spaced apart from and connected with the inner frame; a facade panel of an external facade fixed to one of the inner frame or the outer frame.

[0156] Embodiment 32. The facade frame according to Embodiment 31, wherein the facade panel comprises a window or a wall.

[0157] Embodiment 33. A modular building system for constructing a multi-storey structure, the system comprising a modular unit having an outer wall portion and at least one of a second wall portion and a floor portion.

[0158] Embodiment 34. A building constructed using the method of any one of Embodiments 1 to 15.

[0159] Embodiment 35. A building constructed using the facade of any one of Embodiments 16 to 26.

[0160] Embodiment 36. A building constructed using the frame of Embodiment 31 or 32.

[0161] Embodiment 37. A building constructed using the modular unit of Embodiment 33.

Claims

1. A method for constructing a multi-story structure, the multi-story structure having a facade, the facade being arranged around at least a portion of the perimeter of the multi-story structure, wherein, During construction, at least a portion of the facade is configured to extend beyond the upper working area of ​​the structure by at least two floor heights and form at least a portion of a safety barrier for the working area, wherein, during the construction of the multi-story structure, at least one other floor slab of the structure is erected above the upper working area, the other floor slab or each other floor slab forming a corresponding subsequent upper working area of ​​the structure, and wherein at least a portion of the facade is configured to extend beyond the uppermost at least one floor height of the subsequent working area and form at least a portion of a safety barrier for the uppermost subsequent working area.

2. The method for constructing a multi-story structure according to claim 1, wherein, The floor slab or each other floor slab is formed such that the floor slab is connected to the facade.

3. The method for constructing a multi-story structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Once the uppermost subsequent work area is formed, the height of the facade is increased to extend beyond the uppermost subsequent work area by at least two floors, so that at least one other floor slab of the structure can be erected, while providing a safety barrier for the construction.

4. The method for constructing a multi-story structure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The facade is formed by multiple connected facade components.

5. The method for constructing a multi-story structure according to claim 4, wherein, The facade forms a frame.

6. The method for constructing a multi-story structure according to claim 5, wherein, The facade is formed by a plurality of connected facade components, which are in the form of modules, and each module includes a frame that forms part of the facade frame in use.

7. A method for constructing a multi-story building, the method comprising: A first facade assembly is positioned around at least a portion of the perimeter of a multi-story building, the facade assembly including a facade structure of at least one floor height, the facade structure being positioned such that it extends upward beyond the upper work area of ​​the building and forms part of a safety fence for the work area. Position the second facade component such that it extends upward from the first facade component, the second facade component including the second facade structure; The floor slab is connected to at least the first facade component such that the floor slab forms the uppermost floor slab, which is erected above the upper work area.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising positioning other facade components extending upward from the second facade component such that facades of at least two floor heights extend above the uppermost floor slab.

9. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein, The facade component further includes a support structure.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising using the support structure of the respective facade component to adjust the angle of the facade structure relative to the floor slab.

11. The method of claim 9 or 10, further comprising removing at least a portion of the supporting structure from the building.

12. A method for constructing a multi-story building, the method comprising: A first facade component is positioned around at least a portion of the perimeter of a multi-story building. The facade component is in the form of a module and includes a facade structure of at least one floor height. The facade structure is positioned such that it extends upward beyond the upper work area of ​​the building and forms part of a safety fence for the work area.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein, The facade component modules are self-supporting and are arranged side-by-side with other facade component modules, one on top of the other.

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, The module is roughly rectangular.

15. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 14, wherein, The facade component has a base that forms part of the floor slab of the building.

16. A facade component configured to be disposed around at least a portion of the perimeter of a multi-story building during construction and arranged to extend beyond an upper working area of ​​the building and form part of a safety fence for the working area, the facade component being further arranged to connect to at least one other floor slab erected above the upper working area, the facade component including a facade structure arranged to connect to at least one other facade component positioned above the facade structure.

17. The facade assembly of claim 16, further comprising a support system that provides support for the facade structure prior to connecting the other floor slabs to the facade assembly.

18. The facade component according to claim 17, wherein, The support system is adjustable to allow the facade structure to be angled relative to the upper working area.

19. The facade component according to claim 17 or 18, wherein, The support system can be removed from the facade structure.

20. The facade component according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein, The support system includes an upright section and legs, the legs being arranged to extend inward into the building during use.

21. The facade component according to claim 20, wherein, The support legs form an extension of the floor slab of the building.

22. The facade component according to claim 20 or 21, wherein, The support system includes at least one bracket that extends between the legs and the upright section.

23. The facade component according to claim 22, wherein, The support is extendable to change the angle of the upright portion relative to the floor slab.

24. The facade component according to any one of claims 16 to 23, wherein, The facade structure and support system of the facade components are configured as modules.

25. The facade component according to any one of claims 16 to 24, wherein, The facade structure includes a facade connector configured to connect the facade structure to the other facade components.

26. The facade component according to any one of claims 16 to 25, wherein, The facade structure is in the form of a self-supporting module.

27. A facade configured to surround at least a portion of the perimeter of a multi-story structure, wherein, During construction, at least a portion of the facade is configured to extend beyond the upper work area of ​​the structure by at least two floor heights and form at least a portion of a safety barrier for the work area and subsequent work areas of at least one other floor slab constructed above the upper work area.

28. The facade according to claim 27, wherein, The facade is formed by multiple connected facade components.

29. The facade according to claim 27, wherein, The facade forms a frame.

30. The facade according to claim 29, wherein, The facade is formed by multiple connected facade modules, each module including a frame, which forms part of the corresponding inner frame and outer frame during use.

31. A facade frame for constructing a structure with an exterior facade, the frame comprising: Inner frame; An outer frame, which is spaced apart from and connected to the inner frame; The facade panel is fixed to one of the inner frame or the outer frame.

32. The facade frame according to claim 31, wherein, The facade panels include windows or walls.

33. A modular building system for constructing multi-story structures, the system comprising modular units having at least one of an outer wall portion and a second wall portion and a floor portion.

34. A building constructed using the method of any one of claims 1 to 15.

35. A building that uses the facade construction of any one of claims 16 to 26.

36. A building that uses the frame structure as described in claim 31 or 32.

37. A building that uses a modular unit construction according to claim 33.

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