MODULAR BUILDING SYSTEM

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a modular construction system, which can be used primarily for constructing a single or double wall, in particular a load-bearing exterior wall or a non-load-bearing exterior wall of the cladding type. The present invention also relates to a construction module, which can be used primarily for constructing a single or double wall, in particular a load-bearing exterior wall or a non-load-bearing exterior wall of the cladding type. The invention finds its main applications in the building sector. Previous art

[0002] It is known, for example in US patent 4,193,244, to use thermally insulated panels, which can be prefabricated in a factory, and which are designed to be joined and fixed together using through fasteners such as screws or bolts, primarily to construct a wall, particularly a load-bearing wall. In one variant, each panel has two front panels to which external studs made of wood, particularly solid wood, are permanently fixed, and onto which an aesthetic and / or functional structure, such as cladding and / or interior facing, can be added.

[0003] In a second embodiment variant, each box has two front metal walls, each with two returns, which allow a U-shape to be formed on the outside of the box and on which an aesthetic and / or functional structure, such as cladding and / or interior facing, can be attached.

[0004] Incidentally, the boxes disclosed in this US patent US 4,193,244 can also be used to construct a horizontal structure such as a roof.

[0005] When these boxes are placed side-by-side and fixed together, it is crucial that they are correctly aligned, with no lateral offset between adjacent boxes. Checking this alignment rests solely on the installer, which is a primary drawback.

[0006] In addition, the external supports are permanently fixed (wooden uprights) or are an integral part (U-shaped returns) of the box, which makes this solution inflexible for attaching an aesthetic and / or functional structure such as cladding or interior facing to the box, which is a second disadvantage.

[0007] European patent application EP 3553244 A1 also discloses a hollow building module that can be used primarily for constructing a wall, in particular a load-bearing wall or a sheathing wall. This module consists of a rectangular parallelepiped-shaped box comprising two side panels forming the module's flanks and two front panels connecting the two side panels. The box is made in one piece from a composite material based on plastic(s) and reinforcing material(s), for example, by molding, extrusion, or pultrusion. The box may contain thermal and / or acoustic insulation.

[0008] This enclosure features L-shaped profiles projecting outwards on one of its front panels and flat profiles projecting outwards on its other front panel. These profiles are an integral part of the enclosure and allow for the attachment of an aesthetic and / or functional structure, such as cladding, interior facing, or even photovoltaic panels.

[0009] This box also features two grooves cut into the outer wall of each side panel. These grooves are vertical and spaced laterally, perpendicular to the front panels. They are designed to house part of a sealing gasket that ensures a watertight seal between two adjacent boxes.

[0010] The sealing joints between two adjoining boxes allow two adjacent boxes to be fitted together and, in cooperation with the grooves, contribute to some extent to the alignment of the boxes.

[0011] The profiles which allow an aesthetic and / or functional structure to be added to the box as an integral part of the box, the technical solution disclosed in European patent application EP 3553244 A1 suffers from the same lack of flexibility (second disadvantage mentioned above) as that disclosed in US patent US 4,193,244 mentioned above.

[0012] US patent US 3,640,039 A discloses a modular construction system according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0013] Moreover, the profiles which allow an aesthetic and / or functional structure to be added to the box prevent the installation of a rain barrier and / or a vapor barrier on the box, and in practice make the box unsuitable for achieving effective sealing by means of a rain barrier and / or a vapor barrier, which constitutes a third disadvantage. Objectives of the invention

[0014] According to a first aspect, a first main and general objective of the invention is to propose a modular construction system, which includes construction modules intended to be assembled end to end, which allows to support at least one added aesthetic and / or functional structure, and which overcomes at least the first disadvantage (alignment of construction modules) and the second disadvantage (flexibility) mentioned above, and where appropriate also the third disadvantage mentioned above when it is necessary to achieve sealing by means of a rain barrier and / or a vapor barrier.

[0015] A more specific objective is that this modular construction system can be used to build a wall, and in particular a load-bearing wall.

[0016] According to a second aspect, a second main and general objective of the invention is to propose construction modules which are intended to be assembled end to end and which overcome at least the first disadvantage (alignment of construction modules) and the second disadvantage (flexibility) mentioned above, and where appropriate also the third disadvantage mentioned above when it is necessary to achieve a seal by means of a rain barrier and / or a vapor barrier.

[0017] A more specific objective is that the building modules can be used to construct a wall, and in particular a load-bearing wall.

[0018] Another objective is to offer a construction module, which can be prefabricated in a factory or workshop and which can be assembled end to end on a construction site with another similar construction module, in a robust manner and being perfectly aligned with that other construction module. Summary of the invention

[0019] According to the first aspect mentioned above, the invention thus has as its primary object a modular construction system comprising at least two construction modules, at least one first joining profile, and one or more fixings. Each construction module comprises a box which has a first dimension measured in a first direction (Z), a second dimension measured in a second direction (X) perpendicular to the first direction (Z), and a third dimension measured in a third direction (Y) which is perpendicular to the other two directions (X; Z); each box comprises a first external side wall and a second external side wall, which are spaced apart from each other at least in the second direction and which each comprise at least one first straight groove parallel to the first direction (Z);The first connecting profile is adapted so that it can be partially inserted, oriented parallel to the first direction (Z), into the first groove of a first external side wall of one of the boxes and into the first groove of a second external side wall of the other box when the two external side walls are positioned opposite each other, such that a part of the first connecting profile, which is intended to have a support function, protrudes from a first face of the boxes and is away from the boxes in the third direction (Y); the fixing(s) are adapted to assemble and clamp the two boxes with the two external side walls of the two boxes opposite each other and to assemble the first connecting profile with the two boxes, by clamping this first connecting profile between the two external side walls of the boxes.

[0020] The fixing(s) can be through-bolted or non-through-bolted.

[0021] When the fasteners are through-bolts, they are designed to assemble and secure the two boxes by passing through the two external side walls of the two boxes facing each other. The through-bolt(s) can be either through-screws or bolts.

[0022] More specifically, the modular construction system may include the following additional and optional features, taken individually or in combination with each other: The first grooves are aligned in the second direction (X). The first connecting profile has a web, which extends lengthwise, and at least a first flange and a second flange, which are positioned on either side of the web of the first connecting profile and which extend in the direction of the length of the web (20) of the first connecting profile and perpendicular to the web (20) of the first connecting profile, the first flange and the second flange constituting the parts of the first connecting profile which are adapted to be inserted respectively into the first groove of the first external side wall and into the first groove of the second external side wall of each box,and preferably in which the first and second wings form a first flange forming a T with the web of the first connecting profile. The supporting portion of the first connecting profile includes at least a third or fourth wing, extending along the length of the profile web and transversely to the profile web. The supporting portion of the first connecting profile includes at least a third and a fourth wing, extending along the length of the profile web and transversely to the profile web, the third and fourth wings being positioned on either side of the profile web.and preferably in which the third and fourth wings form a second base with the web of the first connecting profile. Each external side wall of the box sections has a second groove parallel to the first groove and spaced from the first groove in the third direction (Y). The second grooves are aligned in the second direction (X). The modular construction system includes at least one second connecting profile; this second connecting profile is adapted to be partially inserted into the second grooves of a first external side wall of one of the box sections and a second external side wall of the other box section when the two external side walls are positioned opposite each other, such that a portion of the second connecting profile, which is intended to have a supporting function,is projecting from a second face of the boxes opposite the first face and is offset from the boxes in the third direction; once the second connecting profile is partially inserted into the second grooves of the two boxes, clamping the two boxes using the fastener(s) also allows the second connecting profile to be assembled with the two boxes by clamping this second connecting profile between the two external side walls of the boxes. The second connecting profile has a web, which extends lengthwise, and at least a first flange and a second flange, which are positioned on either side of the web of the second connecting profile and which extend along the length of the web of the second connecting profile and perpendicular to the web of the second connecting profile.The first and second wings constitute the parts of the second connecting profile that are adapted to be inserted respectively into the second groove of the first external side wall and into the second groove of the second external side wall, and preferably wherein the first and second wings form a flange forming a T with the web of the second connecting profile. The supporting portion of the second connecting profile comprises at least a third or fourth wing, extending along the length of the web of the profile and transversely to the web of the profile. The supporting portion of the second connecting profile comprises at least a third and a fourth wing, extending along the length of the web of the profile and transversely to the web of the profile, the third and fourth wings being positioned on either side of the web of the profile.and preferably in which the third and fourth wings form a second base with the web of the second connecting profile. Each construction module has, for each groove of each box, a sealing gasket which is preferably housed entirely within the groove or in which the portion of each connecting profile intended to be inserted into a groove is provided with a sealing gasket. Each box has a first side and a second side which are spaced apart at least in the second direction (X) and which are connected by a third and a fourth side spaced apart in the first direction (Z); The first external side wall of the box is formed by the external wall of the first side and the second external side wall of the box is formed by the external wall of the second side; each box has at least one first panel,which, together with the four sides, defines an internal space. The modular construction system includes at least one second panel, which is adapted to be fixed to the four sides of the box after the two boxes have been assembled and optionally filled with thermal and / or acoustic insulation, so as to close the internal box space. At least one of the construction modules, and preferably each construction module, includes a rainscreen, preferably flexible, which is fixed to the box so as to protect the first face of the box. More specifically, the rainscreen covers the external wall of the first panel. In an alternative embodiment, at least one of the construction modules, and preferably each construction module, includes a rainscreen, preferably flexible, and an additional vertical profile, preferably an additional I-beam, which is fixed to the first panel.and the rainscreen is locally sandwiched between the additional profile and the first panel. Preferably, in the above variant, the additional profile is adapted to serve as a support for exterior cladding. Preferably, in the above variant, at least one of the building modules, and preferably each building module, comprises two additional exterior panels that are embedded in said additional profile, on either side of this additional profile. Preferably, in the above variant, the rainscreen is attached to the frame so as to cover the external face of the additional panels. More specifically, each additional panel is, for example, made of polyurethane. In another variant, at least one of the building modules, and preferably each building module,It comprises a rainscreen and at least one additional exterior panel which is attached to the first panel, and the rainscreen is attached to the casing so as to cover the outer face of said at least one additional panel. More specifically, said at least one additional panel is, for example, made of polyurethane. Regardless of the variant, the rainscreen is flexible and is preferably folded against the two outer side walls of the casing so as to form two flaps. The flaps of the rainscreen extend at least to the first grooves of the two outer side walls. The flaps of the rainscreen cover the first grooves of the two outer side walls, so that the rainscreen can be inserted locally and wedged into each first groove, in particular by means of the first joining profile inserted into said first groove, or the flaps of the rainscreen are inserted locally into the first grooves of the two outer side walls.so that the rainscreen can be wedged into each first groove, in particular by means of the first joining profile inserted into said first groove. At least one of the building modules, and preferably each building module, includes a vapor barrier positioned to protect the second face of the box opposite the first face of the box, and preferably one that covers the outer wall of the second panel when this second panel has been fixed to close the box. The vapor barrier covers the groove or one of the grooves of each of the two outer side walls, so that the vapor barrier can be inserted locally and wedged into each of said grooves, in particular by means of the joining profile inserted into each of said grooves, or whereby the vapor barrier is inserted locally into the groove or one of the grooves of the two outer side walls.so that the vapor barrier can be wedged into each of said grooves, notably by means of the joining profile inserted into each of said grooves. Each panel is self-supporting and suitable for use in constructing a wall by orienting the first direction (Z) of each panel vertically. - The two panels of the two construction modules are suitable for assembly by being aligned in line with each other in their second direction (X). The two panels of the two construction modules are suitable for assembly perpendicular to each other. The web of at least one of the joining profiles has one or more through openings for use as a reservation. The modular construction system includes at least one additional T-shaped profile, the web of which is designed to be positioned between two adjacent assembled panels.and whose base is designed to be fixed to a foundation and serves to support the two assembled caissons.

[0023] The invention also has as a second object the use of the aforementioned modular construction system to build a wall, preferably a load-bearing wall.

[0024] The invention also relates, as a third object, to a method for constructing a section of wall using the aforementioned modular construction system, said method comprising the following steps: (a) placement of a first box of a first building module on a foundation intended to support the wall, such that the first direction (Z) of the box is vertical and fixing of this box to the foundation; (b) insertion of a first part of a first joining profile into a first groove of one of the external side walls of this box, such that a second part of this first joining profile is projecting in the second direction (X) relative to this external side wall and a third part of this first joining profile is projecting in the third direction (Y) relative to a first face of the box;(c) placement on the foundation of a second box of a second building module, such that the first direction (Z) of the box is vertical and that said second part of the first joining profile is inserted into a first groove in one of the external side walls of this box, (d) joining the two boxes by means of one or more fixings with the external side walls of the two boxes opposite each other and tightening the two boxes by means of the fixing(s), so as to tighten the first joining profile between said external side walls; (e) fixing the second box to the foundation; (f) optionally, placing thermal and / or acoustic insulation in the boxes; (g) optionally, closing each box by means of a panel.

[0025] More specifically, the process may include the following additional and optional features, taken individually or in combination with each other: Preferably, the fixing(s) are through-fasteners, in particular through-screws or bolts, and at step (d) of assembly and tightening of the boxes are passed through the external side walls of the two boxes opposite each other.In step (b), a second joining profile is also inserted into a second groove in the same external side wall, such that a second part of the second joining profile protrudes in the second direction (X) from this external side wall and a third part of the second joining profile protrudes in the third direction (Y) from a second face of the box opposite the first face; in step (c) said second part of the second joining profile is inserted into a second groove in the external side wall of the second box; in step (d) clamping the two boxes also allows the second joining profile to be clamped between the external side walls of the two boxes. The method allows a portion of a double wall to be constructed using at least one third building module of the modular building system and a fourth building module of the modular building system, by carrying out at least the following additional operations: insertion of the third protruding part of the second joining profile into two grooves in the external side walls of the boxes of these third and fourth building modules; assembly of these two boxes by means of one or more fixings with the external side walls of the two boxes opposite each other; clamping of these two boxes by means of the fixing(s), so as to clamp this third part of the joining profile between said external side walls of these boxes; fixing of the two boxes to the foundation.A functional and / or aesthetic structure, and more specifically cladding, is fixed to every third section of each projecting connecting profile relative to one of the faces of the boxes. A functional and / or aesthetic structure, and more specifically an interior facing, is fixed to every third section of each projecting connecting profile relative to one of the faces of the boxes.

[0026] According to the second aspect mentioned above, the invention also relates to a construction module comprising a box, which has a first dimension measured in a first direction (Z), a second dimension measured in a second direction (X) perpendicular to the first direction (Z) and a third dimension measured in a third direction (Y) which is perpendicular to the other two directions (X; Z); the box comprises a first side and a second side which are spaced apart from each other at least in the second direction (X) and which are connected by a third side and a fourth side spaced apart from each other in the first direction (Z); the first side and the second side each comprise an external side wall which includes at least a first straight groove parallel to the first direction;The box comprises a first panel which is fixed to the four sides and which, together with the four sides, delimits an internal space open on its face opposite the panel and closed on all its other faces.

[0027] More specifically, the modular construction module may include the following additional and optional features, taken individually or in combination with each other: The enclosure includes a second panel, designed to be attached to the four sides of the enclosure after it has been assembled with another enclosure and possibly filled with thermal and / or acoustic insulation. This second panel closes the open face of the internal space and seals the enclosure. It can also be temporarily and removably attached to the four sides of the construction module for transport. The first grooves are aligned in the second direction (X). Each external side wall of the enclosure has a second groove, parallel to the first groove and spaced from it in the third direction (Y). The second grooves are aligned in the second direction (X). The construction module includes a rainscreen, preferably flexible, attached to the enclosure to cover at least the outer face of the enclosure. More specificallyThe rainscreen covers the outer face of the first panel. In one embodiment, the building module includes a rainscreen, preferably flexible, and an additional vertical profile, preferably an I-beam, which is attached to the first panel, and the rainscreen is locally sandwiched between the additional profile and the first panel. Preferably, in the above embodiment, the additional profile is adapted to serve as a support for exterior cladding. Preferably, in the above embodiment, the building module includes two additional exterior panels that are embedded in said additional profile, on either side of it. Preferably, in the above embodiment, the rainscreen is attached to the frame so as to cover the outer face of the additional panels. More specifically, each additional panel is, for example, made of polyurethane. In another embodiment, the building module includes aA rainscreen and at least one additional exterior panel are attached to the first panel. The rainscreen is fixed to the frame so as to cover the outer face of said at least one additional panel. More specifically, said at least one additional panel is, for example, made of polyurethane. Regardless of the variant, the rainscreen is flexible and is folded against the two outer side walls of the frame so as to form two flaps. The flaps of the rainscreen extend at least to the first grooves of the two outer side walls. The flaps of the rainscreen cover the first grooves of the two outer side walls or are inserted locally into the first grooves of the two outer side walls. The building module includes, for each groove of the frame, a sealing gasket which is preferably fully housed within the groove. The building module includes a flexible vapor barrier which is fixed to the frame in such a way as to allow accessto the internal space of the box, and which is adapted to be folded down to create a water and vapor barrier on the face of the box opposite the first panel. The vapor barrier covers the second grooves of the two external side walls or is inserted locally into the second grooves of the two external side walls. The four sides form a solid wood frame, and the first panel is fixed to this solid wood frame. Said first panel is a wood panel, and more specifically an OSB panel or a fiber-reinforced concrete composite panel. The external side walls of the first and second sides of the box are parallel. The construction module for an external corner in which the external side wall of the first side of the box is parallel to the first direction (Z) and perpendicular to the second (X) direction, and the external side wall of the second side of the box is parallel to the first direction (Z) and formsan angle (A) of 45° with the inner wall of the first panel, or in which the outer side wall of the second side of the box is parallel to the first direction (Z) and perpendicular to the second (X) direction, and the outer side wall of the first side of the box is parallel to the first direction (Z) and forms an angle (A) of 45° with the inner wall of the first panel. Construction module for a re-entrant angle in which the outer side wall of the first side of the box is parallel to the first direction (Z) and perpendicular to the second (X) direction, and the outer side wall of the second side of the box is parallel to the first direction (Z) and forms an angle (B) of 135° with the inner wall of the first panel, or in which the outer side wall of the second side of the box is parallel to the first direction (Z) and perpendicular to the second (X) direction, and the outer side wall of the first side of the box is parallel to theThe first direction (Z) forms an angle (B) of 135° with the inner wall of the first panel. Each box is self-supporting and suitable for use in constructing a wall, with the first direction (Z) of each box oriented vertically. The construction module includes a first connecting profile comprising a web and at least one first flange and a second flange, positioned on either side of the web of the first connecting profile and extending along the length of the web of the first connecting profile and perpendicular to the web of the first connecting profile. Preferably, the first and second flanges form a first flange forming a T with the web of the first connecting profile. The first flange is suitable for insertion into the first groove of the first outer side wall, and the second flange is suitable for insertion into the first groove of the second outer side wall.box, such that in both cases a portion of the first connecting profile, intended to serve a support function, projects from a first face of the box and is offset from the box in the third direction (Y). Each external side wall of the box has a second groove, parallel to the first groove and offset from the first groove in the third direction (Y). The module comprises a second connecting profile having a web and at least a first flange and a second flange, positioned on either side of the web of the second connecting profile and extending along the length of the web of the second connecting profile and perpendicular to the web of the second connecting profile, and preferably wherein the first flange and the second flange form a first flange forming a T with the web of the second connecting profile; the first flange is adapted forto be inserted into the second groove of the first external side wall and the second wing is adapted to be inserted into the second groove of the second external side wall of the box, such that in both cases a part of the second joining profile, which is intended to have a support function, is projecting out from the other face of the box and is away from the box in the third direction (Y).

[0028] According to the second aspect mentioned above, the invention also relates to the use of several of the aforementioned construction modules to build a wall, preferably a load-bearing wall.

[0029] According to the second aspect mentioned above, the invention also relates to a method for constructing a portion of a wall using two aforementioned construction modules, said method comprising the following steps: (a) placement of a first box of a first building module on a foundation intended to support the wall, such that the first direction (Z) of the box is vertical and fixing of this box to the foundation; (b) insertion of a first part of a first joining profile into a first groove in one of the external side walls of this box, such that a second part of this first joining profile protrudes in the second direction (X) relative to this external side wall and a third part of this first joining profile protrudes in the third direction relative to a first face (of the box, (c) placement on the foundation of a second box of a second building module, such that the first direction (Z) of the box is vertical and said second part of the first joining profile is inserted into a first groove in one of the external side walls of this box;(d) assembly of the two boxes by means of one or more fixings with the external side walls of the two boxes opposite each other and tightening of the two boxes by means of the fixing(s), so as to tighten the first joining profile between said external side walls; (e) fixing of the second box to the foundation; (f) optionally, placement in the boxes of thermal and / or acoustic insulation (I); (g) optionally, closure of each box by means of a panel (15').

[0030] More specifically, according to the second aspect mentioned above, the process may include the following additional and optional characteristics, taken individually or in combination with each other: Preferably, the fixing(s) are through-fasteners, in particular through-screws or bolts, and at step (d) of assembly and tightening of the boxes are passed through the external side walls of the two boxes opposite each other.In step (b), a second connecting profile is also inserted into a second groove in the same external side wall, such that a second part of the second connecting profile protrudes in the second direction (X) relative to this external side wall and a third part of the second connecting profile protrudes in the third direction (Y) relative to a second face of the box opposite the first face; in step (c) said second part of the second connecting profile is inserted into a second groove in the external side wall of the second box; in step (d) clamping the two boxes also allows the second connecting profile to be clamped between the external side walls of the two boxes.A functional and / or aesthetic structure, and more specifically cladding, is fixed to every third section of each projecting connecting profile relative to one of the faces of the boxes. A functional and / or aesthetic structure, and more specifically an interior facing, is fixed to every third section of each projecting connecting profile relative to one of the faces of the boxes. Brief description of the figures

[0031] The features and advantages of the invention will become clearer upon reading the following detailed description of several embodiments and implementations of modular construction systems of the invention, which detailed description is neither limiting nor exhaustive of the invention and is made with reference to the accompanying drawings on which: There figure 1This is a front view of a particular embodiment of a box for a construction module of the invention. figure 2 is a left-side view of the casing of the figure 1 There figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the box in the section plane III-III of the figure 1 . There figure 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the box in the section plane IV-IV of the figure 1 There figure 5 is a view from below of the casing of the figure 1 . There figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a particular variant of a construction module comprising the box of the figures 1 to 5 on which a rainscreen is attached. The figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a first particular variant of a modular construction system of the invention, comprising two construction modules, which are similar to the construction module of the figure 6, and which are assembled end to end using through-fastener(s) with the implementation of joining profiles between the boxes, so as to form a section of a wall. The figure 8 represents the assembly of the figure 7 , after insulation has been installed in the cavities and after the cavities have been closed. The figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a particular variant of a modular construction system of the invention which is implemented for the construction of a double wall. Figure 10 is a front view (interior side) of a particular variant of a construction module comprising the box of the figures 1 to 5 onto which a rain barrier and a vapor barrier are fixed. The figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the construction module of the Figure 10 , with an enlargement showing the overlap of the two vapor barrier sheets. The figure 12is a cross-sectional view of a second particular variant of a modular construction system of the invention, comprising two construction modules which are identical to the module of Figures 10 And 11 , and which are assembled end to end using through-fastener(s) with the implementation of joining profiles between the boxes, so as to form a section of a wall. The figures 13 to 16 These are isometric perspective representations of four variants of joining profiles. figure 17 is a side view of a detail of the joining profile of the figure 16 . There figure 18 This is a view of the end of a fifth embodiment of a connecting profile, showing the cross-sectional profile of the profile. figure 19 is a front view of the joining profile of the figure 18 . There Figure 20This is a view of the end of a sixth embodiment of a connecting profile, showing the cross-sectional profile of the profile. figure 21 This is a view of the end of a seventh embodiment of a connecting profile, showing the cross-sectional profile of the profile. figure 22 represents an assembly of building modules allowing the formation of an outward wall angle. figure 23 represents an assembly of building modules that can be used to form a re-entrant angle. figure 24 This is a schematic front view of a particular embodiment of two assembled boxes resting on a T-shaped profile. figure 25 This is a cross-sectional view of another variant of a building module with a rainscreen, additional profile, and additional panels. figure 26 is a cross-sectional view of another variant of the realization of two construction modules assembled end-to-end. Detailed description

[0032] We have represented, by way of non-limiting examples, on the figures 1 to 5 a construction module M comprising a box 1 conforming to a particular embodiment of the invention, and on the figure 6 the construction module M containing this box 1 of the figures 1 to 5 , on which a rain guard 17 is fixed. Box 1

[0033] With reference to figures 1 to 5 , box 1 extends (dimension L1) in a first direction Z, extends (dimension L2) in a second direction X, which is perpendicular to the first direction Z and extends (dimension L3) in a third direction Y, which is perpendicular to the other two directions X, Z.

[0034] This box 1 is self-supporting, that is to say, its stability is ensured by its rigidity alone.

[0035] This box 1 is designed to be rigidly and securely joined end-to-end with the self-supporting box of another identical or similar module ( Fig. 7 ), by means of through fixing(s), and with implementation of joining profile(s) between the boxes, in order to construct a portion of a simple wall.

[0036] Box 1 is also suitable ( Fig. 9 ) to be assembled and braced in the third lateral direction Y, with other identical or similar boxes, in order to construct a portion of a double wall.

[0037] A single or double wall can be a load-bearing wall, designed to support a roof frame and floor structure, particularly an exterior load-bearing wall. In this case, the wall cavity will be load-bearing and sufficiently strong to support the roof frame and floor structure for which the load-bearing wall is intended.

[0038] A single or double wall can also be a non-load-bearing wall, such as for example a coat wall.

[0039] The invention can be used to construct a single or double wall of any type of building, in particular and without limitation, for constructing a wall of a timber frame house, or of a timber frame extension of an existing house, or a wall of any other type of timber frame construction, such as for example a garage or a room.

[0040] In the following description, for the sake of clarity and simplification, the box(es) will be described as being oriented vertically, the first direction Z corresponding to the vertical, and the second X and third Y directions being oriented horizontally and being perpendicular to each other.

[0041] In the specific example of figures 1 to 5, dimension L1 thus corresponds to the height of the box; dimension L2 corresponds to the length of the box; dimension L3 corresponds to the width of the box measured in the direction of its depth.

[0042] The dimensions L1, L2 and L3 of box 1 can be adapted on a case-by-case basis.

[0043] In the variant illustrated on the figures 1 to 5 and, without limiting the invention, the height L1 of the box is greater than the length L2 of the box, which is itself greater than the width L3 of the box.

[0044] More particularly, and solely by way of illustrative and non-limiting example of the invention, in this embodiment variant, L1 may for example be equal to 2500 mm, L2 may for example be equal to 1220 mm and L3 may for example be equal to 157 mm.

[0045] In other embodiment variants, the box 1 may have a structure and dimensions giving it the form of a column or post, with, for example, dimensions L2 and L3 substantially equal and the height L1 being greater than the other dimensions L2 and L3.

[0046] In some box variants, the height L1 can also be less than or equal to the dimension L2.

[0047] The boxes of the building modules of a modular building system of the invention may have identical heights L1 or some boxes may have a different height L1 than the other boxes, and in particular a lower height L1 than the other boxes, so as for example to be able to provide openings in the wall, such as a window.

[0048] The boxes of the building modules of a modular building system of the invention may also have identical or different lengths L2 and identical or different widths L3.

[0049] With reference to figures 1 to 5 The box 1 comprises a frame, preferably made of wood, including two vertical uprights 10 and 11 which respectively form a first vertical side F1 and a second vertical side F2 of the box. These two uprights 10 and 11 are spaced in the front direction X and are connected to each other at right angles by a top rail 12 and a bottom rail 13 which respectively form a third upper side F3 and a fourth lower side F4 of the box.

[0050] The two vertical uprights 10 and 11 each have an external wall 10a, 11a, which is flat and forms an external side wall of the box 1 and each have an internal side wall 10b, 11b.

[0051] In this example, the external side walls 10a and 11a of the box are vertical (parallel to the Z direction) and perpendicular to the X direction, and are therefore parallel, unlike the external side walls 10a and 11a of the corner boxes of the Figures 21 And 22 which will be described later.

[0052] The two rails 12 and 13 are horizontal and extend lengthwise parallel to the second direction X. With reference to the figure 1 The upper rail 12 has an upper external wall 12a and a lower internal wall 12b. The lower rail 13 has a lower external wall 13a and an upper internal wall 13b.

[0053] The box 1 also includes two vertical reinforcing struts 14, which are fixed at both ends to the top rail 12 and the bottom rail 13, being aligned with each other in the third direction Y ( Fig.3), and more specifically by being centered between the two amounts 10, 11.

[0054] The vertical uprights 10, 11, the top rail 12, the bottom rail 13 and the reinforcing spacers 14 are preferably made of solid wood, and are rigidly assembled, for example by means of screws, bolts, wooden pegs, dowels, or equivalents.

[0055] Depending on the length L2 of the box 1, the box frame may also include several other pairs of reinforcing struts spaced in the X direction or may not include a reinforcing strut 14 if the length L2 of the box is sufficiently small.

[0056] In another embodiment variant, particularly when the L3 dimension of the box is larger, the uprights 10 and 11 and the rails 12 and 13 can also be made using wider boards.

[0057] The external side wall 10a of the upright 10 has two grooves R1 and R2, which are straight and vertical (i.e. parallel to the Z direction) and which are spaced apart in the Y direction.

[0058] Symmetrically, the external side wall 11a of the upright 11 has two grooves R1 and R2, which are straight and vertical (i.e. parallel to the Z direction) and which are spaced apart in the Y direction.

[0059] Preferably, but not necessarily according to the invention, these grooves R1 and R2 extend over the entire height of the external side walls 10a, 11a of the uprights 10, 11.

[0060] Preferably, but not necessarily according to the invention, the R1 grooves are identical and the R2 grooves are identical.

[0061] More specifically, all the grooves R1 and R2 have the same cross-sectional profile, and preferably, as illustrated in the figures, a U-shaped profile.

[0062] Preferably, in this embodiment, the grooves R1 are aligned in the X direction and the grooves R2 are aligned in the X direction.

[0063] The box 1 also includes a front panel 15, which is fixed to the uprights 10, 11 and to the reinforcing spacer 14, by screwing, nailing or equivalent and / or by gluing, and allows in particular bracing of the frame in order to prevent it from deforming.

[0064] This panel 15 comprises an outer wall 15a and an inner wall 15b ( Fig.3 ).

[0065] The internal wall 15b of this panel 15 delimits, with the internal walls 10b and 11b of the two uprights 10 and 11 and with the internal walls 12b and 13b of the two rails 12, 13, an internal space 16, which is open on its front face 16a opposite the panel 15, and which is closed on its five other faces.

[0066] The external wall 15a of the panel 15 corresponds to a first front face 1' of the box 1 and the open face 16a of the internal space 16 corresponds to a second front face 1" opposite to the first face 1'.

[0067] The open face 16a of this space 16 allows access to it, in particular to be able to fix the box to the ground and end to end with the box of another construction module and to be able to install thermal and / or acoustic insulation in this internal space 16.

[0068] Panel 15 is specifically designed to face the exterior of the wall to be constructed. In this text, panel 15, also referred to as the "exterior" panel, and faces 1' and 1" of the box are also referred to as the "exterior" and "interior" faces of the box, respectively.

[0069] A 15mm moisture-resistant panel is preferred.

[0070] This panel 15 can be made of wood, and preferably can be an oriented strand board, more commonly known as OSB, which offers better resistance to moisture and better mechanical qualities, compared for example to a chipboard panel, and which also provides an advantageous thermal and acoustic insulation.

[0071] The invention is not, however, limited to a panel 15 of the OSB panel type. By way of non-limiting and non-exhaustive description of the invention, the panel 15 may, for example, also be a concrete panel, a composite panel of the fiber-reinforced concrete type, that is to say in a composite material combining a matrix (the concrete) and a reinforcement (the fibers), more particularly a composite polyester concrete panel, a plywood panel, an MDF panel, a metal (sheet) panel. Box 1 equipped with a rain guard 17

[0072] With reference to the figure 6 , the construction module M may include, in addition to the box 1, a rain barrier 17 which is attached to the box 1.

[0073] The term "rain barrier" commonly refers to a protective screen that is impermeable to water but permeable to water vapor.

[0074] Depending on the regulations in force, such a rain barrier 17 may be mandatory, particularly in the case of a timber frame (studs 10 and 11; rails 12 and 13 and, where applicable, reinforcing spacers 14) and / or an exterior panel 15 made of wood or wood-based material.

[0075] More specifically, with reference to the figure 6 The rain barrier 17 is preferably flexible.

[0076] The rain barrier 17 can be single-layer or multi-layer.

[0077] The rain barrier 17 may include at least one so-called breathable film, which is waterproof but permeable to water vapor.

[0078] This could be, for example, a plastic film, for example made of polypropylene.

[0079] This film can be laminated with at least one other layer, such as for example a non-woven layer, in particular a PET non-woven.

[0080] The rain barrier 17 may also include a non-woven layer, for example PET, which is coated with a resin, for example acrylic resin or polyurethane resin.

[0081] The rain barrier 17 is fixed to the frame of the box 1 so as to cover at least completely the external wall 15a of the panel 15.

[0082] When the rain barrier 17 is flexible, it is more specifically fixed so as to be stretched and pressed against this external wall 15a of the panel 15.

[0083] This external wall 15a of panel 15 is in practice intended to be oriented towards the environment outside the wall to be built.

[0084] The rainscreen 17 forms a screen which protects the box from water penetration, but allows the box to "breathe" and thus prevents moisture from being retained inside the box.

[0085] More specifically, in the variants of the figure 6The rainscreen 17 is folded down (flaps 17a) against the two external side walls 10a and 11a of the uprights 10 and 11 of the frame of the box 1 and is fixed to the two external side walls 10a and 11a of the box and to the two top rails 12 and bottom rail 13, for example by nailing, stapling or equivalent and / or by gluing

[0086] Preferably, this rain barrier 17 is not fixed to the external front wall 15a of the panel 15 by nail and / or staple type fixings, so as not to risk perforating the panel 15 and avoid creating local leaks at the level of these fixings.

[0087] Preferably, the rain barrier 17 extends at least to groove R1 of the upright 10 and to groove R1 of the upright 11.

[0088] The M building modules can advantageously be prefabricated in a manufacturing plant or workshop, and then delivered and used on a construction site.

[0089] Alternatively, it is also advantageous, even during the prefabrication stage of the building module M in a manufacturing plant or workshop, to temporarily install thermal and / or acoustic insulation, such as, for example, but not limited to, rock wool or glass wool, in the internal space 16 of the enclosure 1. This facilitates, in particular, the transport of this insulation with the enclosure to the construction site. On the construction site, this insulation is removed to allow the enclosure to be installed and joined to the enclosure of another building module, and is then replaced in the enclosure. Simple wall

[0090] We have represented on the figure 7 , a first example of the implementation of two construction modules M1 and M2, in combination with two joining profiles 2 and 3, in order to construct a portion of a simple wall.

[0091] On this figure 7 The construction modules are referenced M1 and M2 to differentiate them and are analogous to the construction module M of the figure 6 as previously described. The first box of module M1 is specifically designated 1-1 and the first box of the second module M2 is specifically designated 1-2, in order to differentiate them. The other constituent elements of construction modules M1 and M2 are identified by the same references as for construction module M as previously described.

[0092] Preferably, the box 1 also includes, in each groove R1 and R2, a sealing gasket J, for example U-shaped, which is fixed in the groove and is preferably entirely housed in the groove.

[0093] Each sealing joint J preferably extends in the longitudinal direction Z over the entire length of the groove.

[0094] Boxes 1-1 and 1-2 can have the same height L1 or can have different heights. Joining profiles 2 (variant 2A) and 3 (variant 3A)

[0095] The two connecting profiles 2 and 3 are preferably made of metal, and more particularly of steel. They can also be made of any other material, including plastic.

[0096] In the particular variant of figures 7 to 9 , 13 and 14 , the two joining profiles 2 and 3 are I-profiles, which in this variant are more particularly referenced 2A and 3A and which, in a non-limiting manner, are identical to the invention.

[0097] These 2A and 3A joining profiles ( Fig. 13 and Fig. 14 ) are manufactured in one piece, for example and in the usual way by extrusion, drawing, rolling or bending. In another variant, the joining profiles 2 and 3 can be profiles reconstituted by welding, such as for example in the embodiment variants of the figures 15 to 21 .

[0098] Each 2A and 3A joining profile has a thin, central 20 core, which extends lengthwise ( Fig. 13 and Fig. 14 - length L) and includes a first flange S1 of width e1 and a second flange S2, of width e2, which are perpendicular to the central web 20 of the profile so as to each form a T with the central web 20.

[0099] The flanges S1 and S2 extend along the entire length L of the web 20 of the profile. In another variant, they could have a different length than the web 20 of the profile.

[0100] The first flange S1 forms a first wing 21 and a second wing 22, which are positioned on either side of the web 20 of the profile, being particularly symmetrical to each other,

[0101] The second flange S2 forms a third wing 23 and a fourth wing 24, which are positioned on either side of the web 20 of the profile, being more particularly symmetrical to each other, and which extend over the entire length L of the web of the joining profile and which extend transversely, and more particularly perpendicularly, to the web 20 of the joining profile.

[0102] The first base S1 (wings 21 and 22) of the connecting profiles 2(2A) and 3(3A) is adapted to be used, in combination with the grooves R1 and R2 of the boxes of the modules M1 and M2, to align the boxes and to assemble the connecting profiles with the boxes by clamping the boxes.

[0103] The second S2 base plate (wings 23 and 24) of the connecting profiles 2 (2A) and 3 (3A) has a support function for an aesthetic and / or functional structure attached to the S2 base plate, such as cladding or interior facing.

[0104] In another variant, it is conceivable to have the third wing 23 and no fourth wing 24 or vice versa.

[0105] In another variant, it is possible to omit the second S2 base plate (i.e., the T-shaped connecting profile). In this case, the support function for the added aesthetic and / or functional structure is achieved by means of the portion of the web 20 of the connecting profiles 2 and 3 that protrudes from the boxes.

[0106] In this particular example, the flange S1 is centered with respect to the web 20 of the profile, so that the width of the first flange 21 is equal to the width of the second flange 22. The flange S2 is centered with respect to the web 20 of the profile, so that the width of the third flange 23 is equal to the width of the fourth flange 24.

[0107] In other variants, the width of the first wing 21 may be different from the width of the second wing 22. The width of the third wing 23 may be different from the width of the fourth wing 24.

[0108] In these examples of Figures 12 And 13 , the width e2 of the sole S2 is greater than the width e1 of the sole S1.

[0109] In another embodiment, the soles S1 and S2 can have the same width.

[0110] With reference to the figure 14The web 20 of the connecting profile 3A has through openings 20a, which can have different diameters and serve as recesses for larger diameter water drainage pipes, medium diameter supply pipes, and smaller diameter electrical cable conduits. These recesses 20a are made (for example, by laser cutting) near the flange S2 (flanges 23 and 24) in the portion of the web 20 of the profile that is designed to protrude from the casing.

[0111] In another embodiment, each sealing joint J can also be mounted, and preferably fixed, on the part of the wing 21 or 22 of the joining profile 2 or 3, which is intended to be inserted into the groove R1 or R2, rather than into the groove R1 or R2. Example of constructing a simple wall using the M1, M2 building modules and the 2A and 2B joining profiles

[0112] To build a section of a simple wall on a construction site, using the construction modules M1, M2 and the joining profiles 2A and 2B, the following successive steps are implemented, for example. Step (a) :

[0113] With reference to the figure 7 , for example, the self-supporting box 1-1 of a first construction module M1 is placed on the flat and horizontal surface of a previously constructed foundation, with the bottom rail 13 of the box 1-1 against the foundation and the uprights 10 and 11 oriented vertically (vertical Z direction), and the box 1-1 is fixed by anchoring it securely in said foundation, by means of dowels, passed through the bottom rail 13 of the box.

[0114] The wall foundation can be a concrete slab type or a pile foundation.

[0115] In the particular case where the M1 construction module was delivered to the construction site containing the thermal and / or acoustic insulation in its internal space 16, this thermal insulation is removed from the box 1-1, before anchoring the box 1 in the foundation. Step (b)

[0116] The connecting profile 2A is placed vertically on the box 1-1 of the module M1, by inserting the first wing 21 of the connecting profile 2A into the first groove R1 of the external side wall 10a of the box 1-1 of the module M1, such that the web 20 of the connecting profile is parallel to the external side wall 10a of the box 1-1 and that the base S2 (third and fourth wings 23, 24) of this profile is projecting in the Y direction relative to the external wall 15a of the panel 15, and is separated (distance E) from this external wall 15a (external face 1' of the box) in the Y direction.

[0117] Similarly, the connecting profile 3A is placed vertically on the box 1-1 of the module M1, by inserting the first wing 21 of the connecting profile 3A into the groove R2 of the external side wall 10a of the box 1-1 of the module M1, such that the web 20 of the connecting profile is parallel to the external side wall 10a of the box 1, and that the flange S2 (third and fourth wings 23, 24) of this profile are projecting in the Y direction relative to the inner open face 1" of the box and are separated (distance E) from this inner open face 1" in the Y direction.

[0118] The length L of the joining profiles can be less than or equal to the height L1 of the box 1. However, the length L of the joining profiles is preferably slightly greater than the height L1 of the box 1 so as to easily ensure that the lower end of the joining profile, mounted on the box, rests on the ground and that the joining profile is thus advantageously locked vertically downwards. Step (c)

[0119] The self-supporting box 1-2 of the second module M2 is placed on the foundation of the wall (bottom rail 13 against the foundation of the wall and uprights 10 and 11 oriented vertically), such that its external side wall 11a is opposite the external side wall 10a of the box 1-1 of the first module M1, and such that the groove R1 of the second module M2 is substantially aligned in the X direction with the groove R1 of the first module M1 and that the groove R2 of the second module M2 is substantially aligned in the X direction with the groove R2 of the first module M1.

[0120] Then we bring the second module M2 closer to the first module so as to insert the second wing 22 of the joining profile 2A into the groove R1 of the external side wall 11a of the box 1-2 of the module M2 and to insert the second wing 22 of the joining profile 3A into the groove R2 of the external side wall 11a of the box 1-2 of the module M2. Step (d)

[0121] The two boxes 1-1 and 1-2 of the two modules M1 and M2 are assembled by means of through fixings 19, of the bolt or screw type, distributed over the height of the boxes, and passed through the upright 10 of the box 1-1 of the module M1 and through the upright 11 of the box 1-2 of the module M2 and the boxes of the modules M1 and M2 are tightened, by means of these through fixings 19, so as to tighten firmly, between the boxes 1-1 and 1-2 of the modules M1 and M2, the two profiles 2A and 3A and the flaps 17a of the rain barrier 17 of the two modules M1 and M2.

[0122] When using bolts, the boxes can be tightened, for example, using nuts. Alternatively, this tightening can be achieved by incorporating one or more threaded inserts into at least one of the side walls of each box, designed to engage with the bolts.

[0123] Wings 21 and 22, connecting profiles 2A and 3A advantageously allow for perfect alignment of box sections 1-1 and 1-2.

[0124] Wings 21, 22, 23, and 24 allow for sealing in grooves R1 and R2, by advantageously compressing the sealing gaskets J in grooves R1 and R2 of module M1 and in grooves R1 and R2 of module M2. Step (e)

[0125] The caisson 1-2 of the construction module M2 is securely anchored in said foundation by means of pegs, passed through the lower rail 13 of the caisson.

[0126] In another variant, sealing brackets can also be provided in the foundation which are used to fix the caissons. Step (f)

[0127] With reference to the figure 8 thermal and / or acoustic insulation is installed I,and for example rock wool or glass wool, in the internal space 16 of the boxes 1-1 and 1-2. Step (g)

[0128] The open face 16a of the internal space of each box 1-1 and 1-2 is closed by means of a second added panel 15', which is fixed to the uprights 10, 11 and the rails 12 and 13 for example by screwing or gluing.

[0129] Without limiting or exhaustively describing the invention, this second 15' panel can be an OSB panel, a Placoplâtre panel, a concrete panel, a fiber-reinforced concrete composite panel (i.e., a composite material combining a matrix (concrete) and reinforcement (fibers), more particularly a polyester concrete composite panel), a plywood panel, an MDF panel, or a hardboard panel. The 15' panel can also be wire mesh.

[0130] In another variant, the open face 16a of the internal space of each box 1-1 and 1-2 can also remain open, without implementation of a panel 15'.

[0131] The above operations can obviously be carried out by reversing the implementation of the boxes and starting (step (a)) with box 1-2 of module M2.

[0132] Steps (b) to (g) can be repeated as many times as necessary with additional building modules until a wall of the desired length is obtained. Step (h)

[0133] Complete sealing of each box by means of a vapor barrier 18, for example in the form of a waterproof and vapor-proof tarpaulin, can also be achieved on the external walls 15a of the panels 15'.

[0134] The term "vapor barrier" generally and commonly refers to a protective layer that is impermeable to water and water vapor. Therefore, moisture present in the air in the form of condensation cannot pass through this protective layer. Step (i)

[0135] Cladding 4 is fixed to the S2 base plates, which have a supporting function, connecting profiles 2A, and an interior facing 5 is fixed to the S2 base plates, which have a supporting function, connecting profiles 3A.

[0136] When the wall is load-bearing, the load supported by the load-bearing wall (weight of the frame and floor system) is transferred by the building module boxes and not by the connecting profiles.

[0137] Alternatively, the 15' inner panel can be temporarily and removably attached to the frame of the enclosure 1 during the enclosure's fabrication stage in the workshop or factory. In this case, when the enclosure 1 is installed on the construction site, this 15' inner panel is first removed from the enclosure to secure it to the ground and to another enclosure, and to fill the enclosure with insulation I. Then, once the enclosure is assembled and secured to the ground, and the insulation I has been placed inside, the 15' panel is permanently attached to the frame of enclosure 1. Double wall

[0138] On the figure 9 We have shown an example of the construction of a portion of a double wall comprising two single walls MS1 and MS2, which are parallel and spaced apart.

[0139] This double wall is built for example when there is a need to increase the priorities of thermal and / or acoustic insulation.

[0140] This double wall is constructed using four construction modules M1, M2, M3 and M4, the same two connecting profiles 2A and 3A and a third connecting profile 31, allowing the two single walls MS1 and MS2 to be braced.

[0141] In this particular example, the simple wall MS1, made using the construction modules M1 and M2, is identical to the simple wall of the figure 8 , with the sole difference that the 3A joining profile of the figure 8 has been replaced by a joining profile 31. Modules M3 and M4 differ essentially from modules M1 and M2 in that they do not include a rain barrier 17 (nor a vapor barrier 18).

[0142] The third profile 3I differs from the profiles 2A and 3A previously described in that the width of its web 20, which defines the bracing distance between the two simple walls MS1 and MS2, is greater and in that the widths of the two flanges S1 (wings 21, 22) and S2 (wings 23 and 24) of the junction profile 3I are identical.

[0143] This double wall was constructed by inserting the first wing 21 and the second wing 22 of the third profile 4 into the grooves R2 opposite each other in modules M1 and M2, and by inserting the third wing 23 and the fourth wing 24 of the third profile 4 into the grooves R1 opposite each other in modules M3 and M4.

[0144] Preferably, panel 15 of the M3 and M4 interior modules is micro-perforated to allow condensation to migrate. Box 1 with 17' rain barrier and 18' vapor barrier

[0145] We have represented on the Figures 10 And 11, a variant of the construction module comprising a box 1 on which a flexible 17' rainscreen is fixed.

[0146] This M construction module differs from that of the figure 6 , in that the flaps 17a of the rainscreen 17' are fixed, temporarily or permanently, for example by being stapled, to the two external side walls 10a and 11a of the box between the two grooves R1 and R2 of the upright 10 and between the two grooves R1 and R2 of the upright 11.

[0147] In this variant, the 17' rain barrier is locally pressed into the R1 grooves of the uprights 10 and 11.

[0148] With reference to the figure 12 , the insertion of wing 21 and wing 22 of profile 2A into grooves R1 advantageously allows the rain guard 17' to be wedged in groove R1 of module M1 box and in groove R1 of module M2 box.

[0149] In the case of the figure 12, tightening the joining profile also advantageously allows the rain barrier 17' to be stretched and pressed more firmly against the external wall 15a of the panel 15.

[0150] In another variant, the rain guard 17' can also cover the groove R1 of the upright 10 and cover the groove R1 of the upright 11. In this case, the insertion of the wing 21 and the wing 22 of the profile 2A into the grooves R1 advantageously allows the rain guard 17' to be pushed in and wedged into the groove R1 of the box of the module M1 and into the groove R1 of the box of the module M2.

[0151] In the variant of Figures 10 And 11 The construction module also includes an 18' flexible vapor barrier, which is attached to box 1.

[0152] This 18' vapor barrier is, for example, a film or tarpaulin that is waterproof and vapor-proof, which is fixed all around the perimeter of the box.

[0153] Similar to the 17' rain barrier, the 18' vapor barrier is locally pressed into the R2 grooves of the 10 and 11 studs.

[0154] With reference to the figure 12 , the insertion of wing 21 and wing 22 of profile 3A into grooves R2 advantageously allows the vapor barrier 18' to be wedged in groove R2 of module M1 box and in groove R2 of module M2 box.

[0155] The vapor barrier 18' further comprises two strips 18a and 18b which are folded over to close the open face 1" of the box opposite the panel 15, and which overlap at the internal reinforcement 14. These two strips 18a and 18b are held together by means of a repositionable adhesive strip 18c, ensuring a seal between the two overlapping parts of the two strips 18a and 18b.

[0156] On the construction site, the two strips 18a and 18b can be opened by peeling off the adhesive strip 18c, so as to be able to access the internal space 16 of the box 1 and to be able to put in place the insulation I in the box 1 and if necessary to put in place the inner panel 15'.

[0157] Once the building module box is fixed to the ground, filled with insulation I, and closed by the inner panel 15', the strips 18a and 18b of this vapor barrier 18' can be folded over the panel 15' and fixed by gluing using the adhesive strip 18c to the outer wall of the inner panel 15', so as to ensure water and water vapor tightness.

[0158] In the absence of an inner panel 15', the strips 18a and 18b of this vapor barrier 18' can be folded down and glued to the reinforcement 14 using the adhesive strip 18c, so as to close the internal space 16 of the box and ensure water and water vapor tightness. Other examples of joining profiles 2 and 3

[0159] We have represented on the figures 15 to 21 , by way of non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples of the invention, other variants of joining profiles 2 (3), which have in common that they are profiles reconstituted by welding.

[0160] On the Figures 15 And 16 , the 2B (3B) and 2D (3D) profiles have the same I-shaped cross-section as the 2A and 3A profiles previously described.

[0161] On the figures 18 And 19 , the 2D (3D) joining profile comprises two U-shaped sub-profiles 25, which extend along the joining profile, which are symmetrical to each other with respect to the thin web 20 of the profile, whose bases 25c are welded on either side of the web 20 of the profile, and whose two wings 25a and 25b are oriented perpendicularly to the web 20 of the profile.

[0162] The web 20 of the joining profile has through holes 20b, of small diameter, distributed along the joining profile and allowing a plug weld on the web 20 of the bases 25c of the U-shaped sub-profiles 25.

[0163] These U-shaped 25 sub-profiles can advantageously be used to embed the edge of a P1 panel on the building module, and for example (2D profile) an additional insulating panel, mounted on the side of the building module facing outwards and parallel to the outer panel 15 or (3D profile) an additional insulating panel, mounted on the side of the building module facing inwards and parallel to the inner panel 15'.

[0164] The 2E (3E) joining profile of the Figure 20 differs from the 2D (3D) profile of the figure 19This is achieved by the presence of two additional flanges 26, which are positioned between the U-shaped sub-profiles and the flanges 21 and 22, and which are symmetrical to each other on either side of the web 20 of the profile. These flanges 26 and the flanges 25b of the U-shaped sub-profiles 25 can advantageously be used to embed the edge of a panel P2 on the construction module.

[0165] The 2F (3F) joining profile of the figure 21 differs from the 2E (3E) profile of the figure 19 by the presence of two additional 25' U sub-profiles between the S2 base and the 25 U sub-profile. These 25' U sub-profiles can advantageously be used to embed the edge of an additional P3 panel.

[0166] It is understood in light of the above that the modular construction system can be implemented with a very wide variety of joining profiles, which makes it very flexible and easily adaptable for the construction of walls with varied and more or less complex structures, including a greater or lesser number of insulating panels. Construction modules for outside corner

[0167] With reference to the figure 22 The M5 and M6 building modules are designed to be assembled perpendicular to each other, so as to form an outward wall angle.

[0168] The side wall 10a of the M5 construction module box is vertical and perpendicular to the front direction (X direction) of the box and the other side wall 11a of the box is vertical and forms an angle A of 45° with the internal wall 15b of the external panel 15.

[0169] The side wall 11a of the M6 ​​construction module box is vertical and perpendicular to the front direction (X direction) of the box and the other side wall 10a of the box is vertical forms an angle A of 45° with the internal wall 15b of the external panel 15.

[0170] The M5 and M6 module boxes are assembled so that their lateral walls 11a and 10a inclined at 45° are opposite each other, so as to form an outward wall angle.

[0171] In addition, in this embodiment variant, special connecting profiles 2 (2G) and 3 (3G) are used, the third 23 and fourth wings 24 of which are perpendicular and form a right-angled base S2. Construction modules for inside corners

[0172] With reference to the figure 23 The M7 and M8 building modules are designed to be assembled perpendicular to each other to form a re-entrant wall angle.

[0173] The external side wall 10a of the M7 building module box is vertical and perpendicular to the front direction (X direction) of the box and the other external side wall 11a of the box is vertical and forms an angle B of 135° with the internal wall 15b of the external panel 15.

[0174] The external side wall 11a of the M8 construction module box is vertical and perpendicular to the front direction (X direction) of the box and the other external side wall 10a of the box is vertical and forms an angle B of 135° with the internal wall 15b of panel 15.

[0175] The M7 and M8 module boxes are assembled so that their lateral walls 11a and 10a inclined at 135° are opposite each other, so as to form a re-entrant wall angle of 90°.

[0176] In addition, in this embodiment variant, connecting profiles 2 (2H) and 3(3H) are used which are identical respectively to the connecting profiles 3(3G) and 2(2G) used to construct an external angle. Variant with T-shaped support profile - Figure 24

[0177] In the variant of the figure 24 , each box 1-1 and 1-2 has on each of its two faces F1 and F2 a step 27 in the lower part.

[0178] The fixing of the caissons 1-1 and 1-2 to the foundation is carried out by means of a profile 28, which extends lengthwise in the Y direction.

[0179] The web 28b of the profile 28 is positioned between the two neighboring boxes 1-1 and 1-2, being housed in the recesses 27, and the base 28a of this profile 28 is fixed to the foundation.

[0180] The two boxes 1-1- and 1-2 are placed and rest on the base 28a and are fixed at least on the base 28a of this profile 28.

[0181] The connecting profiles 2 and 3 between the two boxes 1-1 and 1-2 rest on the base 28a of this profile 28. Variant with rainscreen, additional profile and additional panels - Figure 25

[0182] The construction module of the figure 25 differs from that of the figure 3 by adding a 17' rain barrier, an additional 6' profile, and two additional 7' panels.

[0183] The additional profile 6 preferably has an I-shaped cross-section.

[0184] The two additional panels 7 are, for example, made of polyurethane.

[0185] The additional profile 6 is fixed vertically to the panel 15 of the box 1 and to the reinforcing spacer 14 of the box, the rain barrier 17' being locally sandwiched between this additional profile 6 and the panel 15.

[0186] The rain barrier 17' is preferably folded down on both sides of this additional profile 6. The vertical edges 7a of the two additional panels 7 are embedded on either side of the additional profile in the rebates of the additional profile 6 and the additional panels 7 are fixed by any means to the box and in particular to the panel 15 and / or to the additional profile 6.

[0187] The rainscreen 17' is folded down on each side of the profile 6 (flaps 17a) and is fixed to the two panels 7, for example by being stapled, so as to cover and protect the outer face of these panels 7, including the vertical edges of these two panels 7. In this variant, the outer face of the panels 7 constitutes the outer face 1' of the box.

[0188] Compared to variant 7 and 8 previously described, the two flaps 17a preferably cover the grooves R1 of the two external side walls 10a 11a, so that the rain guard 17' can be inserted locally and wedged into each groove R1.

[0189] The additional profile 6 can be advantageously used for fixing exterior cladding.

[0190] Advantageously, the construction module comprising the box 1, the additional profile 6 and the rain barrier 17' can, for example, be manufactured initially in a workshop or factory, without the additional panels 7. Subsequently, on the construction site, the additional panels 7 are preferably mounted on the box, and the rain barrier 17' is folded down so as to cover the external faces of the additional panels 7.

[0191] In another variant, the entire construction module can be manufactured in a workshop or factory. Variant with rainscreen and vapor barrier - Figure 26

[0192] We have represented on the figure 26 , a modular construction system comprising two construction modules, each of which includes a 1-1, 1-2 box equipped with a 17' flexible exterior rain barrier and an 18' flexible interior vapor barrier.

[0193] Each 1-1, 1-2 cabinet differs primarily from the cabinet of the figure 25 previously described by the implementation of a single groove R1 in each upright 10, 11 of the box, said box being without groove R2, and the two boxes 1-1 and 1-2 are joined end to end by means of a joining profile 2 between boxes and through fixings allowing the joining profile 2 to be tightened between the two boxes.

[0194] The construction system of the figure 26also includes an additional joining profile 8, preferably I-shaped, which is fixed to the uprights 10, 11 of the two boxes 1-1 and 1-2.

[0195] In the junction zone between boxes 1-1, 1-2, the 18' vapor barriers of the two boxes 1-1 and 1-2 overlap and are sandwiched between the additional 3' joining profile and the 10,11 studs of the boxes.

[0196] Each 1-1, 1-2 box is advantageously filled with thermal and / or acoustic insulation I.

[0197] Each box 1-1, 1-2 of the figure 26 The assembly, including its filling with insulation I, can advantageously be prefabricated in a workshop or factory. The assembly of the two boxes 1-1 and 1-2 using connecting profiles 2 and 8 can be carried out on the construction site.

[0198] The invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described with reference to the accompanying figures. Other modifications, described below, may also be made, though this is not an exhaustive list.

[0199] The fixing(s) 19 used to assemble the two boxes are not necessarily through-bolts, but in another variant of the invention may be non-through-bolts.

[0200] The structural elements (uprights 10, 11, rails 12, 13 and reinforcements 14) of the enclosure are not necessarily made of wood, but may be made of another material, particularly plastic. The outer panel 15 may also be made of plastic. Some plastic parts of the enclosure may also be made in one piece by molding or equivalent; for example, the uprights 10, 11, rails 12, 13 and panel 15 may be manufactured in one piece.

[0201] The box of a building module may have a single straight groove R1 or R2 in its two side walls 10a and 11a and be used to be assembled with a box of another module using a single joining profile 2 or 3.

[0202] The box of a construction module may have a single straight groove R1 or R2 in its two side walls 10a and 11a and be used to assemble with a box of another module using a single joining profile, the support flanges of which project from the two opposite faces 1' and 1" of the box. In this case, this single groove is preferably centered in the side wall of the box.

[0203] The box of a construction module may have three or more parallel straight grooves in its two side walls 10a and 11a. In this case, the joining profiles will be adapted so that they have additional pairs of wings 21 and 22 that can be inserted into the additional grooves.

[0204] The box of a building module can also be an L-shaped corner box. In this case, the two upper sides F3 and lower sides F4 of the box can be L-shaped plates. The two external side walls 10a and 11a of the box are spaced apart in both the X and Y directions and are oriented perpendicularly to each other. The outer panel 15 and the inner panel 15' are, for example, each in two parts, which are fixed respectively to the two right-angled sections of the L-shaped box.

[0205] The boxes of the construction modules of the invention can also be implemented by being superimposed.

[0206] The base (lower smooth edge) of a box can also be wider so that it partially projects in the Y direction relative to the outer panel 15 or the inner panel 15'. This modification can be particularly useful when constructing a double wall, by butting the widened bases of the opposing boxes together.

[0207] Although the modular system of the invention is primarily suited to the construction of a vertical wall-type structure, the invention is not limited to the construction of vertical structures. Incidentally, the modular construction system based on boxes and profiles of the invention can also be adapted and used to construct a non-vertical structure, and in particular a horizontal structure, such as a roof or a floor structure.

Claims

1. Modular construction system comprising at least two construction modules (M1 / M2; M3 / M4; M5 / M6; M7 / M8), at least one first joining profile (2 or 3), wherein each construction module comprises a box (1-1; 1-2) which has a first dimension (L1) measured in a first direction (Z), a second dimension (L2) measured in a second direction (X) perpendicular to the first direction (Z) and a third dimension (L3) measured in a third direction (Y) which is perpendicular to the other two directions (X; Z), wherein each box (1-1; 1-2) comprises a first outer side wall (10a) and a second outer side wall (11a) that are spaced apart from one another at least in the second direction (X) and each of which comprises at least one first groove (R1 or R2) which is straight and parallel to the first direction (Z), wherein the first joining profile (2 or 3) is suitable for being partly inserted, oriented parallel to the first direction (Z), into the first groove (R1 or R2) of a first outer side wall (10a) of one of the boxes (1-1 or 1-2) and into the first groove (R1 or R2) of a second outer side wall (11a) of the other box (1-2 or 1-1) when the two outer side walls (10a; 11a) are positioned opposite one another, so that a part of the first joining profile (2 or 3), which is intended to have a supporting function, projects from a first face (1' or 1") of the boxes (1-1 and 1-2) and is spaced apart from the boxes (1-1 and 1-2) in the third direction (Y), characterized in that the modular construction system comprises one or more fasteners (19) suitable for assembling and clamping the two boxes (1-1 and 1-2) with the two outer side walls (10a; 11a) of the two boxes facing one another and for assembling the first joining profile (2 or 3) with the two boxes, by clamping this first joining profile (2 or 3) between the two outer side walls (10a; 11a) of the boxes.

2. Modular construction system according to claim 1, wherein the first joining profile (2 or 3) comprises a web (20), which extends lengthwise, and at least one first flange (21) and one second flange (22) that are positioned on either side of the web (20) of the first joining profile (2 or 3) and extend in the lengthwise direction of the web (20) of the first joining profile (2 or 3) and perpendicular to the web (20) of the first joining profile (2), the first flange (21) and the second flange (22) constituting the parts of the first joining profile (2 or 3) that are suitable for being inserted respectively into the first groove (R1 or R2) of the first outer side wall (10a) and into the first groove (R1 or R2) of the second outer side wall (11a) of each box, and preferably wherein the first flange (21) and the second flange (22) form a first base plate (S1) forming a T with the web (20) of the first joining profile (2 or 3).

3. Modular construction system according to claim 2, wherein the supporting part of the first joining profile (2 or 3) comprises at least one third flange (23) or one fourth flange (24), which extends in the lengthwise direction of the profile web (20) and transversely to the profile web (20), or wherein the supporting part of the first joining profile (2 or 3) comprises at least one third flange (23) and one fourth flange (24) that extend in the lengthwise direction of the profile web and transversely to the profile web (20), the third flange (23) and the fourth flange (24) being positioned on either side of the profile web (20), and preferably wherein the third flange (23) and the fourth flange (24) form a second base plate (S2) with the web (20) of the first joining profile (2 or 3).

4. Modular construction system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each outer side wall (10a; 11a) of the boxes (1-1 and 1-2) has a second groove (R2 or R1) that is parallel to the first groove (R1 or R2) and is spaced apart from the first groove in the third direction (Y).

5. Modular construction system according to claim 4, comprising at least one second joining profile (3 or 2), wherein the second joining profile (3 or 2) is suitable for being partly inserted into second grooves (R2 or R1) of a first outer side wall (10a) of one of the boxes (1-1 or 1-2) and of a second outer side wall (11a) of the other box (1-2 or 1-1) when the two outer side walls (10a; 11a) are positioned opposite one another, such that a part of the second joining profile (3 or 2), which is intended to have a supporting function, projects from a second face (1" or 1') of the boxes (1-1 and 1-2) opposite the first face (1' or 1") and is spaced apart from the boxes (1-1 and 1-2) in the third direction (Y), and wherein, once the second joining profile (3 or 2) has been partly inserted into the second grooves (R2 or R1) of the two boxes, clamping the two boxes by means of the fastener or fasteners (19) also enables the second joining profile (3 or 2) to be assembled with the two boxes, by clamping this second joining profile (3 or 2) between the two outer side walls (10a; 11a) of the boxes.

6. Modular construction system according to claim 5, wherein the second joining profile (3 or 2) comprises a web (20), which extends lengthwise, and at least one first flange (21) and one second flange (22), which are positioned on either side of the web (20) of the second joining profile (3 or 2) and which extend in the lengthwise direction of the web (20) of the second joining profile and perpendicular to the web (20) of the second joining profile, the first flange (21) and the second flange (22) constituting the parts of the second joining profile (3 or 2) that are suitable for being inserted respectively into the second groove (R2 or R1) of the first outer side wall (10a) and into the second groove (R2 or R1) of the second outer side wall (11a), and preferably wherein the first flange (21) and the second flange (22) constitute a base plate (S1) forming a T with the web (20) of the second joining profile (3 or 2).

7. Modular construction system according to claim 6, wherein the supporting part of the second joining profile comprises at least one third flange (23) or one fourth flange (24) that extends in the lengthwise direction of the profile web (20) and transversely to the profile web (20), or wherein the supporting part of the second joining profile comprises at least one third flange (23) and one fourth flange (24) that extend in the lengthwise direction of the profile web and transversely to the profile web (20), the third flange (23) and the fourth flange (24) being positioned on either side of the profile web (20), and preferably wherein the third flange (23) and the fourth flange (24) form a second base plate (S2) with the web (20) of the second joining profile.

8. Modular construction system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein each construction module has, for each groove of each box (1-1; 1-2), a seal (J) which is accommodated, preferably entirely, in the groove, or wherein the part of each joining profile intended for insertion into a groove (R1 or R2) is provided with a seal.

9. Modular construction system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein each box (1-1; 1-2) comprises a first side face (F1) and a second side face (F2) that are spaced apart from one another at least in the second direction (X) and which are connected by a third side face (F3) and by a fourth side face (F4) spaced apart from one another in the first direction (Z), wherein the first outer side wall (10a) of the box is constituted by the outer wall of the first side face (F1) and the second outer side wall (11a) of the box is constituted by the outer wall of the second side face (F2) and wherein each box (1-1; 1-2) comprises at least one first panel (15), which together with the four side faces (F1, F2, F3, F4) delimits an inner space (16), and preferably the modular construction system comprises at least one second panel (15'), which is suitable for being secured to the four side faces (F1, F2, F3, F4) of the box after the two boxes have been assembled and possibly filled with a thermal and / or acoustic insulator (I), so as to close the inner space (16) of the box.

10. Modular construction system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one construction module, and preferably each construction module, comprises a rain shield (17 or 17'), preferably a flexible rain shield, which is secured to the box so as to protect the first face (1') of the box.

11. Modular construction system according to claim 10, wherein the rain shield (17 or 17') is flexible and is folded against the two outer side walls (10a; 11a) of the box so as to form two flaps (17a), preferably wherein the flaps (17a) of the rain shield (17 or 17') extend at least up to the first grooves (R1) of the two outer side walls (10a; 11a), and more preferably wherein the flaps (17a) of the rain shield (17') cover the first grooves (R1) of the two outer side walls (10a; 11a) so that the rain shield (17') can be locally inserted and wedged in each first groove (R1), or wherein the flaps (17a) of the rain shield (17') are locally inserted into the first grooves (R1) of the two outer side walls (10a; 11a), so that the rain shield (17') can be wedged in each first groove (R1).

12. Modular construction system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein at least one construction module, and preferably each construction module, comprises a vapor barrier (18 or 18') that is positioned so as to protect the second face (1") of the box which is opposite the first face (1') of the box, and preferably which enables the outer wall (15b) of the second panel (15') to be covered when this second panel (15') has been secured to close the box, and / or preferably wherein the vapor barrier (18') covers the groove (R2) or one (R2) of the grooves of each of the two outer side walls (10a; 11a), so that the vapor barrier (18') can be locally inserted and wedged in each of said grooves (R2), or wherein the vapor barrier (18') is locally inserted into the groove (R2) or into one (R2) of the grooves of the two outer side walls (10a; 11a), so that the vapor barrier (18') can be wedged in each of said grooves (R2).

13. Modular construction system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein each box (1-1; 1-2) is self-supporting and suitable for being used to construct a wall by orienting the first direction (Z) of each box vertically.

14. Modular construction system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the two boxes (1-1 and 1-2) of the two construction modules (M1 / M2) are suitable for being assembled in line with one another in their second direction (X), or wherein the two boxes (1-1 and 1-2) of the two construction modules (M5 / M6 or M7 / M8) are suitable for being assembled perpendicular to one another.

15. Modular construction system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein at least one (3) of the joining profiles comprises a web (20) and said web (20) comprises one or more through-openings (20a) with the function of cutout(s).

16. Modular construction system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, comprising at least one additional T-shaped profile (28), the web (28b) of which is intended to be positioned between two adjacent assembled boxes (1-1; 1-2), and the base plate (28a) of which is intended to be secured to a foundation and has the function of serving to support the two assembled boxes (1-1; 1-2).

17. Use of the modular construction system according to any one of claims 1 to 16 to construct a wall, preferably a load-bearing wall.

18. Method of constructing a wall portion by means of a modular construction system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, said method comprising the following steps: (a) placing a first box of a first construction module on a foundation intended to support the wall, so that the first direction (Z) of the box is vertical, and securing this box to the foundation; (b) inserting a first part of a first joining profile (2 or 3) into a first groove (R1) of one (10a or 11a) of the outer side walls of this box, so that a second part of this first joining profile (2 or 3) projects in the second direction (X) with respect to this outer side wall and a third part of this first joining profile (2 or 3) projects in the third direction (Y) with respect to a first face (1' or 1") of the box; (c) placing a second box of a second construction module on the foundation so that the first direction (Z) of the box is vertical and said second part of the first joining profile (2 or 3) is inserted into a first groove (R1) of one of the outer side walls (11a or 10a) of this box; (d) assembling the two boxes by means of one or more fasteners (19) with the outer side walls (10a and 11a) of the two boxes facing one another, and clamping the two boxes by means of the fastener or fasteners (19), so as to clamp the first joining profile (2 or 3) between said outer side walls; (e) securing the second box to the foundation; (f) optionally installing thermal and / or acoustic insulation (I) in the boxes; (g) optionally, closing each box with a panel (15').

19. Method according to claim 18 wherein, in step (b), a second joining profile (3 or 2) is also inserted into a second groove (R2) of this same outer side wall (10a or 11a), so that a second part of the second joining profile (3 or 2) projects in the second direction (X) with respect to this outer side wall and a third part of the second joining profile (3 or 2) projects in the third direction (Y) with respect to a second face (1") of the box opposite the first face (1'), wherein, in step (c), said second part of the second joining profile (3 or 2) is inserted into a second groove (R2) of the outer side wall (11a or 10a) of the second box, and wherein, in step (d), the clamping of the two boxes also clamps the second joining profile (3 or 2) between the outer side walls of the two boxes.

20. Method according to any one of claims 18 or 19, wherein a functional and / or aesthetic structure, and more particularly a cladding (4) or an interior facing (5), is secured to every third part of each joining profile (2) projecting from one (1' or 1") of the faces of the boxes.