Modular building system

Abstract

The modular construction system comprises at least two construction modules (M1 / M2), at least one first connecting profile (2 or 3), and one or more fasteners (19). The first connecting profile (2 or 3) is adapted to be able to be partially inserted, while being oriented parallel to the first direction (Z), into the first groove (R1 or R2) of a first external side wall (10a) of the box (1-1 or 1-2) of one of the two modules and into the first groove (R1 or R2) of a second external side wall (11a) of the box (1-2 or 1-1) of the other module when the two external side walls (10a; 11a) are positioned opposite each other.The fastener(s) (19) are adapted to assemble and tighten the two boxes (1-1 and 1-2) with the two external side walls (10a; 11a) of the two boxes facing each other and to assemble the first joining profile (2 or 3) with the two boxes, by tightening this first joining profile (2 or 3) between the two external side walls (10a; 11a) of the boxes.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] It is known, for example in US patent US 4,193,244, to use thermally insulated boxes, which can be prefabricated in the factory, and which are intended to be joined and fixed together by means of through fixings of the screw or bolt type, mainly so as to construct a wall, in particular a load-bearing wall. In a first variant, each box comprises two front panels on which are permanently fixed external uprights which are made of wood, in particular solid wood, and on which an aesthetic and / or functional structure can be added, such as cladding and / or interior facing.

[0003] In a second embodiment, each box comprises two metal front walls, each with two returns, which make it possible to form a U-shape on the outside of the box and onto which an aesthetic and / or functional structure can be added, such as cladding and / or interior facing.

[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 they are joined and fixed together, it is essential that these boxes are correctly aligned, without lateral offset between two neighboring boxes. Control of this alignment rests solely with the installer, which is a first disadvantage.

[0006] Furthermore, the external supports are permanently fixed (wooden uprights) or are an integral part (U-shaped returns) of the box, which makes this solution not very flexible for fixing an aesthetic and / or functional structure such as cladding or interior facing to the box, which constitutes a second disadvantage.

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

[0008] This box has L-shaped profiles protruding from the outside on one of its front panels and flat profiles protruding from the outside on its other front panel. These profiles are an integral part of the box and allow an aesthetic and / or functional structure to be added to the box, such as cladding or interior facing or even photovoltaic panels.

[0009] This box also has two grooves which are made in the external wall of each side panel, and which are vertical and spaced in the lateral direction perpendicular to the front panels. These grooves are intended to house a part of a sealing gasket ensuring a seal between two adjoining boxes.

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

[0011] The profiles which make it possible to attach to the box an aesthetic and / or functional structure forming 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 drawback mentioned above) as that disclosed in the aforementioned American patent US 4,193,244.

[0012] Furthermore, the profiles which allow an aesthetic and / or functional structure to be added to the box prevent the installation of a rain-proof film and / or a vapour barrier film on the box, and in practice make the box unsuitable for achieving effective sealing by means of a rain-proof film and / or a vapour barrier film, which constitutes a third disadvantage. Objectives of the invention

[0013] According to a first aspect, a first main and general objective of the invention is to propose a modular construction system, which comprises construction modules intended to be assembled end to end, which makes it possible to support at least one added aesthetic and / or functional structure, and which overcomes at least the first drawback (alignment of the construction modules) and the second drawback (flexibility) mentioned above, and where appropriate also the third drawback mentioned above when it is necessary to achieve sealing by means of a rain barrier and / or a vapor barrier.

[0014] A more specific objective is that this modular construction system can be used to build a wall, and in particular a load-bearing wall.

[0015] 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 drawback (alignment of the construction modules) and the second drawback (flexibility) mentioned above, and where appropriate also the third drawback mentioned above when it is necessary to achieve sealing by means of a rain barrier and / or a vapour barrier.

[0016] A more specific objective is that the building modules can be used to build a wall, and in particular a load-bearing wall.

[0017] Another objective is to provide a building module that can be prefabricated in a factory or workshop and can be assembled end-to-end on a construction site with another similar building module, in a robust manner and perfectly aligned with this other building module. Summary of the invention

[0018] According to the first aspect mentioned above, the invention thus has as its first subject a modular construction system comprising at least two construction modules, at least one first junction profile, and one or more fasteners. 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 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 joining profile is adapted to be able to be partially inserted, being 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 joining profile, which is intended to have a supporting function, projects relative to a first face of the boxes and is spaced from the boxes in the third direction (Y); the fastener(s) are adapted to assemble and tighten the two boxes with the two external side walls of the two boxes opposite each other and to assemble the first joining profile with the two boxes, by tightening this first joining profile between the two external side walls of the boxes.;

[0019] The fixing(s) can be through or non-through.

[0020] When the fasteners are through-bolts, they are suitable for assembling and tightening the two boxes by being passed through the two external side walls of the two boxes facing each other. The through-bolt fastener(s) may be of the through-screw or bolt type.

[0021] More specifically, the modular building 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 joining profile comprises a web, which extends in length, and at least a first wing and a second wing, which are positioned on either side of the web of the first joining profile and which extend in the direction of the length of the web (20) of the first joining profile and perpendicular to the web (20) of the first joining profile, the first wing and the second wing constituting the parts of the first joining 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 wherein the first flange and the second flange constitute a first flange forming a T with the web of the first junction profile. The supporting part of the first junction profile comprises at least one third flange or one fourth flange, which extends in the direction of the length of the web of the profile and transversely to the web of the profile. The supporting part of the first junction profile comprises at least one third flange and one fourth flange, which extend in the direction of the length of the web of the profile and transversely to the web of the profile, the third flange and the fourth flange being positioned on either side of the web of the profile,and preferably wherein the third flange and the fourth flange constitute a second flange with the web of the first joining profile. Each outer side wall of the boxes has a second groove which is parallel to the first groove and which is spaced from the first groove in the third direction (Y). The second grooves are aligned in the second direction (X). The modular building system comprises at least one second joining profile; this second joining profile is adapted to be able to be partly inserted into the second grooves of a first outer side wall of one of the boxes and of a second outer side wall of the other box when the two outer side walls are positioned opposite each other, such that a part of the second joining profile, which is intended to have a supporting function,projects from a second face of the boxes opposite the first face and is spaced apart from the boxes in the third direction; once the second joining profile is partly inserted into the second grooves of the two boxes, the clamping of the two boxes by means of the fixing(s) also makes it possible to assemble the second joining profile with the two boxes, by clamping this second joining profile between the two external side walls of the boxes. The second joining profile comprises a web, which extends lengthwise, and at least a first wing and a second wing, which are positioned on either side of the web of the second joining profile and which extend in the direction of the length of the web of the second joining profile and perpendicular to the web of the second joining profile,the first wing and the second wing constituting the parts of the second joining profile which 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 wing and the second wing constitute a flange forming a T with the web of the second joining profile. The supporting part of the second joining profile comprises at least one third wing or one fourth wing, which extends in the direction of the length of the web of the profile and transversely to the web of the profile. The supporting part of the second joining profile comprises at least one third wing and one fourth wing, which extends in the direction of the length of the web of the profile and transversely to the web of the profile, the third wing and the fourth wing being positioned on either side of the web of the profile,and preferably in which the third wing and the fourth wing constitute a second flange with the web of the second joining profile. Each construction module comprises, for each groove of each box, a seal which is housed, preferably entirely, in the groove or in which the part of each joining profile intended to be inserted in a groove is provided with a seal. Each box comprises a first flank and a second flank which are spaced from each other at least in the second direction (X) and which are connected by a third flank and by a fourth flank spaced from each other in the first direction (Z); The first external side wall of the box is constituted by the external wall of the first flank and the second external side wall of the box is constituted by the external wall of the second flank; each box comprises at least one first panel,which delimits with the four sides an internal space. The modular construction system comprises 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 possibly 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, comprises a rain shield, preferably flexible, which is fixed to the box so as to protect the first face of the box. More particularly, the rain shield covers the external wall of the first panel. In an alternative embodiment, at least one of the construction modules and preferably each construction module, comprises a rain shield, preferably flexible, and an additional vertical profile, preferably an additional I-shaped profile, which is fixed to the first panel,and the rain shield is locally sandwiched between the additional profile and the first panel. Preferably, in the above-mentioned variant, the additional profile is adapted to serve as a support for external cladding. Preferably, in the above-mentioned variant, at least one of the construction modules and preferably each construction module comprises two additional external panels which are embedded in said additional profile, on either side of this additional profile. Preferably, in the above-mentioned variant, the rain shield is fixed to the box so as to cover the external face of the additional panels. More particularly, each additional panel is for example made of polyurethane. In another variant, at least one of the construction modules and preferably each construction module,comprises a rain shield and at least one additional outer panel which is fixed to the first panel and the rain shield is fixed to the box so as to cover the outer wall of said at least one additional panel. More particularly, said at least one additional panel is for example made of polyurethane. Whatever the variant, the rain shield is flexible and is preferably folded against the two outer side walls of the box so as to form two flaps. The flaps of the rain shield extend at least as far as the first grooves of the two outer side walls. The flaps of the rain shield cover the first grooves of the two outer side walls, so that the rain shield can be inserted locally and wedged in each first groove in particular by means of the first joining profile inserted in said first groove or the flaps of the rain shield are inserted locally in the first grooves of the two outer side walls,such that the rain shield 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 construction modules, and preferably each construction module, comprises a vapor barrier which is positioned so as to protect the second face of the box which is opposite the first face of the box, and preferably which makes it possible to cover the external 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 external side walls, such 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 in which the vapor barrier is inserted locally into the groove or into one of the grooves of the two external side walls,so that the vapor barrier can be wedged in each of said grooves in particular by means of the joining profile inserted in each of said grooves. Each box is self-supporting and adapted to be used to construct a wall by vertically orienting the first direction (Z) of each box. - -The two boxes of the two construction modules are adapted to be assembled by being aligned in the extension of one another in their second direction (X). The two boxes of the two construction modules are adapted to be assembled perpendicular to one another. The web of at least one of the joining profiles comprises one or more through openings with reservation function(s). The modular construction system comprises at least one additional T-shaped profile, the web of which is intended to be positioned between two assembled neighboring boxes,and whose sole is intended to be fixed to a foundation and has the function of serving as support for the two assembled boxes.

[0022] The invention also has as a second object a use of the aforementioned modular construction system for constructing a wall, preferably a load-bearing wall.

[0023] The invention also has as a third subject a method of constructing a portion of wall by means of a modular construction system mentioned above, said method comprising the following steps: (a) laying a first box of a first construction module on a foundation intended to support the wall, such that the first direction (Z) of the box is vertical and fixing this box to the foundation; (b) inserting a first part of a first junction profile into a first groove of one of the external side walls of this box, such that a second part of this first junction profile projects in the second direction (X) relative to this external side wall and a third part of this first junction profile projects in the third direction (Y) relative to a first face of the box;(c) placing a second box of a second construction module on the foundation, 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 of one of the external side walls of this box, (d) assembling the two boxes by means of one or more fasteners with the external side walls of the two boxes facing each other and tightening the two boxes by means of the fastener(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.

[0024] More particularly, the method may comprise the following additional and optional features, taken individually or in combination with each other: Preferably, the fixing(s) are through-bolts, in particular of the through-screw or bolt type, and in step (d) of assembling and tightening the boxes are passed through the external side walls of the two boxes facing each other.In step (b), a second joining profile is also inserted into a second groove of this same external side wall, such that a second part of the second joining profile projects in the second direction (X) relative to this external side wall and a third part of the second joining profile projects 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 joining profile is inserted into a second groove of the external side wall of the second box; in step (d) the clamping of the two boxes also makes it possible to clamp the second joining profile between the external side walls of the two boxes.The method makes it possible to construct a portion of a double wall by means of at least a third construction module of the modular construction system and a fourth construction module of the modular construction system, by carrying out at least the following additional operations: inserting the third projecting part of the second joining profile into two grooves of the external side walls of the boxes of these third and fourth construction modules; assembling these two boxes by means of one or more fasteners with the external side walls of the two boxes facing each other; tightening these two boxes by means of the fastener(s), so as to tighten this third part of the joining profile between said external side walls of these boxes; fixing the two boxes to the foundation.A functional and / or aesthetic structure, and more particularly a cladding, is fixed on every third part of each junction profile projecting from one of the faces of the boxes. A functional and / or aesthetic structure, and more particularly an interior facing, is fixed on every third part of each junction profile projecting from one of the faces of the boxes.

[0025] 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 flank and a second flank which are spaced from each other at least in the second direction (X) and which are connected by a third flank and by a fourth flank spaced from each other in the first direction (Z); the first flank and the second flank each comprise an external side wall which comprises at least one first straight groove parallel to the first direction;the box comprises a first panel which is fixed to the four sides and which delimits with the four sides an internal space open on its face opposite the panel and closed on all its other faces.;

[0026] More specifically, the modular building module may include the following additional and optional features, taken individually or in combination with each other: The box comprises a second panel, which is adapted to be fixed to the four sides of the box, after the box has been assembled with another box and optionally has been filled with thermal and / or acoustic insulation, so as to close the open face of the internal space and close the box, this second panel possibly being able to be temporarily and removably fixed to the four sides of the building module for the transport of the building module. The first grooves are aligned in the second direction (X). Each external side wall of the box comprises a second groove, which is parallel to the first groove and which is spaced from the first groove in the third direction (Y). The second grooves are aligned in the second direction (X). The building module comprises a rain shield, preferably flexible, which is fixed to the box so as to cover at least the external face of the box. More particularlythe rain shield covers the external wall of the first panel. In an alternative embodiment, the construction module comprises a rain shield, preferably flexible, and an additional vertical profile, preferably an additional I-shaped profile, which is fixed to the first panel, and the rain shield is locally sandwiched between the additional profile and the first panel. Preferably, in the above-mentioned alternative, the additional profile is adapted to serve as a support for external cladding. Preferably, in the above-mentioned alternative, the construction module comprises two additional external panels which are embedded in said additional profile, on either side of this additional profile. Preferably, in the above-mentioned alternative, the rain shield is fixed to the box so as to cover the external face of the additional panels. More particularly, each additional panel is for example made of polyurethane. In another alternative, the construction module comprises arain shield and at least one additional outer panel which is fixed to the first panel and the rain shield is fixed to the box so as to cover the outer wall of said at least one additional panel. More particularly, said at least one additional panel is for example made of polyurethane. Whatever the variant, the rain shield is flexible and is folded against the two outer side walls of the box so as to form two flaps. The flaps of the rain shield extend at least as far as the first grooves of the two outer side walls. The flaps of the rain shield cover the first grooves of the two outer side walls or are inserted locally in the first grooves of the two outer side walls. The construction module comprises for each groove of the box, a sealing gasket which is housed, preferably entirely, in the groove. The construction module comprises a flexible vapor barrier which is fixed to the box so as to be able to accessto the internal space of the box, and which is adapted to be folded down so as to create a water and water vapor seal 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 in 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 wooden panel, and more particularly an OSB panel or a fiber concrete composite panel. The external side walls of the first side and the second side 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 flank 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 flank 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 re-entrant angle in which the outer side wall of the first flank 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 flank 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 flank 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 flank of the box is parallel to thefirst direction (Z) and forms an angle (B) of 135° with the inner wall of the first panel. Each box is self-supporting and adapted to be used to construct a wall, by vertically orienting the first direction (Z) of each box. The construction module comprises a first junction profile which comprises a web and at least a first flange and a second flange, which are positioned on either side of the web of the first junction profile and which extend in the direction of the length of the web of the first junction profile and perpendicular to the web of the first junction profile, and preferably the first flange and the second flange constitute a first flange forming a T with the web of the first junction profile; the first flange is adapted to be inserted into the first groove of the first external side wall and the second flange is adapted to be inserted into the first groove (of the second external side wall of thebox, such that in both cases a portion of the first joining profile, which is intended to have a supporting function, projects relative to a first face of the box and is spaced from the box in the third direction (Y). Each external side wall of the box comprises a second groove, which is parallel to the first groove and which is spaced from the first groove in the third direction (Y), said module comprises a second joining profile which comprises a web and at least a first wing and a second wing, which are positioned on either side of the web of the second joining profile and which extend in the direction of the length of the web of the second joining profile and perpendicular to the web of the second joining profile, and preferably in which the first wing and the second wing constitute a first flange forming a T with the web of the second joining profile; the first wing is adapted forbe 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 supporting function, projects relative to the other face of the box and is spaced from the box in the third direction (Y).

[0027] According to the second aspect mentioned above, the invention also relates to a use of several construction modules mentioned above for constructing a wall, preferably a load-bearing wall.

[0028] According to the second aspect mentioned above, the invention also relates to a method of constructing a portion of wall using two construction modules mentioned above, said method comprising the following steps: (a) laying a first box of a first construction module on a foundation intended to support the wall, such that the first direction (Z) of the box is vertical and fixing this box to the foundation; (b) inserting a first part of a first junction profile into a first groove of one of the external side walls of this box, such that a second part of this first junction profile projects in the second direction (X) relative to this external side wall and a third part of this first junction profile projects in the third direction relative to a first face (of the box, (c) laying on the foundation of a second box of a second construction module, such that the first direction (Z) of the box is vertical and said second part of the first junction profile is inserted into a first groove of one of the external side walls of this box;(d) assembling the two boxes by means of one or more fasteners with the external side walls of the two boxes facing each other and tightening the two boxes by means of the fastener(s), so as to tighten the first junction profile between said external side walls; (e) fixing the second box to the foundation; (f) optionally, placing thermal and / or acoustic insulation (I) in the boxes; (g) optionally, closing each box by means of a panel (15'). ;

[0029] More particularly, according to the second aspect mentioned above, the method may comprise the following additional and optional characteristics, taken individually or in combination with each other: Preferably, the fixing(s) are through-bolts, in particular of the through-screw or bolt type, and in step (d) of assembling and tightening the boxes are passed through the external side walls of the two boxes facing each other.In step (b), a second joining profile is also inserted into a second groove of this same external side wall, such that a second part of the second joining profile projects in the second direction (X) relative to this external side wall and a third part of the second joining profile projects 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 joining profile is inserted into a second groove of the external side wall of the second box; in step (d) the clamping of the two boxes also makes it possible to clamp the second joining profile between the external side walls of the two boxes.A functional and / or aesthetic structure, and more particularly a cladding, is fixed on every third part of each junction profile projecting from one of the faces of the boxes. A functional and / or aesthetic structure, and more particularly an interior facing, is fixed on every third part of each junction profile projecting from one of the faces of the boxes. Brief description of the figures

[0030] The characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the detailed description below of several variants of embodiment and implementation of modular construction systems of the invention, which detailed description is not limiting or exhaustive of the invention and is made with reference to the appended drawings in which: There Figure 1is a front view of a particular variant embodiment of a box of a construction module of the invention. The Figure 2 is a left side view of the box of the Figure 1 There Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the box in section plane III-III of the Figure 1 . There Figure 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of the box in section plane IV-IV of the Figure 1 There Figure 5 is a bottom view of the box of the Figure 1 . There Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a particular variant of a building module comprising the box of the figures 1 to 5 on which a rain shield is fixed. The Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a first particular variant of a modular building system of the invention, comprising two building modules, which are similar to the building module of the Figure 6, and which are assembled end to end by means of through fixing(s) with the use of junction profiles between the boxes, so as to form a portion of a wall. figure 8 represents the assembly of the Figure 7 , after installing insulation in the boxes and after closing the boxes. 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. The 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 on which a rain shield and a vapor barrier are fixed. The Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the building module of the Figure 10 , with an enlargement showing the overlap of the two strips of vapor barrier. 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 the figures 10 And 11 , and which are assembled end to end by means of through fixing(s) with the use of junction profiles between the boxes, so as to form a portion of a wall. figures 13 to 16 are isometric perspective representations of four variants of junction profiles. The Figure 17 is a side view of a detail of the junction profile of the figure 16 . There figure 18 is an end view of a fifth alternative embodiment of a junction profile showing the transverse profile of the profile. figure 19 is a front view of the junction profile of the figure 18 . There figure 20is an end view of a sixth alternative embodiment of a junction profile showing the transverse profile of the profile. figure 21 is an end view of a seventh alternative embodiment of a junction profile showing the transverse profile of the profile. figure 22 represents an assembly of construction modules allowing the formation of an outgoing wall angle. figure 23 represents an assembly of construction modules allowing the formation of a re-entrant angle. The figure 24 is a schematic front view of a particular variant of the construction of two boxes assembled and resting on a T-shaped profile. The figure 25 is a cross-sectional view of another variant of a building module with rain screen, additional profile and additional panels. figure 26 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of two construction modules assembled end-to-end. Detailed description

[0031] As non-limiting examples, the following have been shown: figures 1 to 5 a construction module M comprising a box 1 conforming to a particular variant embodiment of the invention, and on the Figure 6 the construction module M comprising this box 1 of the figures 1 to 5 , on which a rain shield 17 is fixed. Box 1

[0032] In reference to the figures 1 to 5 , the 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.

[0033] This box 1 is self-supporting, that is to say has a stability which is ensured by its rigidity alone.

[0034] This box 1 is suitable for being assembled rigidly and securely end to end with the self-supporting box of another identical or similar module ( Fig.7 ), by means of through fixing(s), and with the use of junction profile(s) between the boxes, in order to construct a portion of a simple wall.

[0035] 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.

[0036] The single or double wall may be a load-bearing wall, intended to support a frame and a floor structure, in particular an external load-bearing wall. In this case, the box will be load-bearing and mechanically strong enough to support the frame and the structure of the floor for which the load-bearing wall is intended.

[0037] The single or double wall can also be a non-load-bearing wall, such as a coat wall.

[0038] The invention can be used to construct a single or double wall of any type of building, in particular and in a non-limiting and non-exhaustive manner, to construct a wall of a timber-framed dwelling, or a timber-framed extension of an existing dwelling, or a wall of any other type of timber-framed construction, such as for example a garage or a room.

[0039] In the remainder of the 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.

[0040] In the particular 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.

[0041] The dimensions L1, L2 and L3 of box 1 can be adapted on a case-by-case basis.

[0042] In the variant illustrated on the figures 1 to 5 , and in a non-limiting manner of 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.

[0043] More particularly, and solely as an illustrative and non-limiting example of the invention, in this variant embodiment, 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.

[0044] In other embodiments, the box 1 may have a structure and dimensions giving it the shape of a column or post, for example with the dimensions L2 and L3 being substantially equal and the height L1 being greater than the other dimensions L2 and L3.

[0045] In some box variants, the height L1 can also be less than or equal to the dimension L2.

[0046] The boxes of the construction modules of a modular construction system of the invention may have identical heights L1 or certain boxes may have a height L1 different from that of the other boxes, and in particular a height L1 lower than that of the other boxes, so as, for example, to be able to provide openings in the wall, such as a window.

[0047] 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.

[0048] In reference to the figures 1 to 5 , the box 1 comprises a frame, preferably made of wood, comprising two vertical uprights 10, 11 which respectively form a first vertical flank F1 and a second vertical flank F2 of the box. These two uprights 10 and 11 are spaced in the frontal direction X and are connected to each other at right angles by an upper rail 12 and by a lower rail 13 which respectively form a third upper flank F3 and a fourth lower flank F4 of the box.

[0049] The two vertical uprights 10 and 11 each comprise an external wall 10a, 11a, which is flat and which forms an external side wall of the box 1 and each comprise an internal side wall 10b, 11b.

[0050] 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 therefore are parallel, unlike the external side walls 10a and 11a of the corner boxes of the figures 21 And 22 which will be described later.

[0051] The two rails 12 and 13 are horizontal and extend in length parallel to the second direction X. With reference to the Figure 1 , the upper rail 12 comprises an upper external wall 12a and a lower internal wall 12b. The lower rail 13 comprises a lower external wall 13a and an upper internal wall 13b.

[0052] The box 1 also comprises two vertical reinforcing struts 14, which are fixed at their two ends to the upper rail 12 and to the lower rail 13, being aligned with each other in the third direction Y ( Fig. 3), and more particularly by being centered between the two uprights 10, 11.

[0053] The vertical uprights 10, 11, the upper rail 12, the lower 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 dowels, studs, or the like.

[0054] Depending on the length L2 of the box 1, the frame of the box 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 short.

[0055] In another embodiment, in particular when the dimension L3 of the box is larger, the uprights 10 and 11 and the rails 12 and 13 can also be made using wider boards.

[0056] The external side wall 10a of the upright 10 comprises two grooves R1 and R2, which are rectilinear and vertical (i.e. parallel to the Z direction) and which are spaced from each other in the Y direction.

[0057] Symmetrically, the external side wall 11a of the upright 11 comprises two grooves R1 and R2, which are rectilinear and vertical (i.e. parallel to the Z direction) and which are spaced from each other in the Y direction.

[0058] 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.

[0059] Preferably, but not necessarily according to the invention, the grooves R1 are identical and the grooves R2 are identical.

[0060] More particularly, all grooves R1 and R2 have the same cross-sectional profile, and preferably, as illustrated in the figures, a U-shaped profile.

[0061] Preferably, in this embodiment variant, the grooves R1 are aligned in the X direction and the grooves R2 are aligned in the X direction.

[0062] The box 1 also comprises 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 in particular allows bracing of the frame in order to prevent it from deforming.

[0063] This panel 15 comprises an external wall 15a and an internal wall 15b ( Fig. 3 ).

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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 the first face 1'.

[0066] 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 in order to be able to install thermal and / or acoustic insulation in this internal space 16.

[0067] The panel 15 is more particularly intended to be oriented towards the external environment of the wall to be constructed. In this text, the panel 15 also referred to as the “external” panel and the faces 1' and 1" of the box are also referred to respectively as the “external” face and “internal” face of the box.

[0068] A moisture-resistant 15 panel is preferably chosen.

[0069] This panel 15 may more particularly be made of wood, and preferably, may be an oriented strand board, more commonly called an OSB panel, which offers better resistance to humidity and better mechanical qualities, compared for example to a chipboard panel, and which also advantageously constitutes a good thermal and acoustic insulator.

[0070] The invention is not, however, limited to a panel 15 of the OSB panel type. In a non-limiting and non-exhaustive manner of the invention, the panel 15 may for example also be a concrete panel, a composite panel of the fiber concrete type, that is to say in a composite material combining a matrix (the concrete) and a reinforcement (the fibers), more particularly a composite panel in polyester concrete, a plywood panel, an MDF panel, a metal panel (sheet). Box 1 equipped with a rain shield 17

[0071] In reference to the Figure 6 , the construction module M may comprise, in addition to the box 1, a rain shield 17 which is fixed to the box 1.

[0072] The term "rain screen" is commonly used to refer to a protective screen that is impermeable to water, but permeable to water vapor.

[0073] Depending on the regulations in force, such a rain shield 17 may be mandatory, particularly in the case of a wooden frame (uprights 10 and 11; rails 12 and 13 and, where appropriate, reinforcing spacers 14) and / or an exterior panel 15 made of wood or wood-based materials.

[0074] More particularly, with reference to the Figure 6 , the rain shield 17 is preferably flexible.

[0075] The rain shield 17 can be single-layer or multi-layer.

[0076] The rain shield 17 may comprise at least one so-called breathable film, which is impermeable to water, but which is permeable to water vapor.

[0077] For example, this is a plastic film, for example polypropylene.

[0078] 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.

[0079] The rain shield 17 may also comprise a non-woven layer, for example PET, which is coated with a resin, for example an acrylic resin or a polyurethane resin.

[0080] The rain shield 17 is fixed to the frame of the box 1 so as to at least completely cover the external wall 15a of the panel 15.

[0081] When the rain shield 17 is flexible, it is more particularly fixed so as to be stretched and pressed against this external wall 15a of the panel 15.

[0082] This external wall 15a of the panel 15 is in practice intended to be oriented towards the environment outside the wall to be constructed.

[0083] The rain shield 17 forms a screen which protects the box against water penetration into the box, but which allows the box to “breathe” and thus prevents humidity from remaining within the box.

[0084] More specifically, in the variants of the Figure 6, the rain shield 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 upper 12 and lower 13 rails, for example by nailing, stapling or equivalent and / or by gluing

[0085] Preferably, this rain shield 17 is not fixed to the external front wall 15a of the panel 15 by nail and / or staple type fasteners, so as not to risk perforating the panel 15 and to avoid creating local leaks at the level of these fasteners.

[0086] Preferably, the rain shield 17 extends at least as far as the groove R1 of the upright 10 and as far as the groove R1 of the upright 11.

[0087] M building modules can be conveniently prefabricated in a manufacturing plant or workshop, and then delivered and used on a construction site.

[0088] Alternatively, it is also advantageous, from the stage of prefabrication of the construction module M in a manufacturing plant or in a manufacturing workshop, to temporarily place in the internal space 16 of the box 1, a thermal and / or acoustic insulator, such as for example and in a non-limiting and non-exhaustive manner rock wool or glass wool. This facilitates in particular the transport of this insulator with the box to the construction site. On the construction site, this insulator is removed to allow the installation and assembly of the box with the box of another construction module, and is then replaced in the box. Single wall

[0089] It has been represented on the Figure 7 , a first example of implementation of two construction modules M1 and M2, in combination with two junction profiles 2 and 3, so as to construct a portion of a simple wall.

[0090] On this Figure 7 , the building modules are referenced M1 and M2 to differentiate them and are analogous to the building module M of the Figure 6 previously described. Box 1 of module M1 is more particularly referenced 1-1 and box 1 of the second module M2 is more particularly referenced 1-2, in order to be able to differentiate them. The other constituent elements of the construction modules M1 and M2 are identified by the same references as for the construction module M previously described.

[0091] Preferably, the box 1 also comprises, in each groove R1 and R2, a sealing joint J, for example U-shaped, which is fixed in the groove and which is preferably entirely housed in the groove.

[0092] Each seal J preferably extends in the longitudinal direction Z over the entire length of the groove.

[0093] Boxes 1-1 and 1-2 can have the same height L1 or can have different heights. Junction profiles 2 (variant 2A) and 3 (variant 3A)

[0094] The two joining profiles 2 and 3 are preferably made of metal, and more particularly of steel. They can also be made of any other material, and in particular of plastic.

[0095] In the particular variant of the figures 7 to 9 , 13 and 14 , the two junction profiles 2 and 3 are I-shaped profiles, which in this variant are more particularly referenced 2A and 3A and which, in a non-limiting manner of the invention, are identical.

[0096] These 2A and 3A junction profiles ( Fig.13 and Fig.14 ) are manufactured in one piece, for example and in the usual manner by extrusion, drawing, rolling or bending. In another variant, the joining profiles 2 and 3 may be profiles reconstituted by welding, such as for example in the embodiment variants of the figures 15 to 21 .

[0097] Each junction profile 2A and 3A has a thin, central core 20, which extends lengthwise ( Fig.13 and Fig.14 - length L) and comprises 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.

[0098] The flanges S1 and S2 extend over the entire length L of the web 20 of the profile. In another variant, they could have a length different from that of the web 20 of the profile.

[0099] The first sole S1 forms a first wing 21 and a second wing 22, which are positioned, on either side of the core 20 of the profile, being more particularly symmetrical to each other,

[0100] The second sole 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 junction profile and which extend transversely, and more particularly perpendicularly, to the web 20 of the junction profile.

[0101] The first sole S1 (wings 21 and 22) of the junction profiles 2(2A) and 3(3A) is suitable for use, 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 junction profiles with the boxes by clamping the boxes.

[0102] The second sole S2 (wings 23 and 24) of the junction profiles 2 (2A) and 3 (3A) has a support function for an aesthetic and / or functional structure attached to the sole S2, such as cladding or interior facing.

[0103] In another variant, it is possible to have the third wing 23 and no fourth wing 24 or vice versa.

[0104] In another variant, it is possible to not have a second sole S2 (i.e. T-shaped junction profile). In this case, the support function for the added aesthetic and / or functional structure is achieved by means of the part of the core 20 of the junction profiles 2 and 3 which projects relative to the boxes.

[0105] In this particular example, the flange S1 is centered relative 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 relative 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

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] In another embodiment, the soles S1 and S2 may have the same width.

[0109] In reference to the figure 14, the core 20 of the junction profile 3A comprises through openings 20a, which may have different diameters and act as a reservation for the passage of larger diameter water evacuation pipes, medium diameter supply pipes and smaller diameter electrical cable passage sheaths. These reservations 20a are made (for example by laser cutting) in the vicinity of the sole S2 (wings 23 and wing 24) in the part of the core 20 of the profile which is intended to project relative to the box.

[0110] In another alternative embodiment, each sealing joint J can also be mounted, and preferably fixed, on the part of the wing 21 or 22 of the junction 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 construction of a simple wall using construction modules M1, M2 and junction profiles 2A and 2B

[0111] To build a section of a simple wall on a construction site, using construction modules M1, M2 and junction profiles 2A and 2B, the following successive steps are implemented, for example. Step (a) :

[0112] In 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 created foundation, with the lower 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 lower rail 13 of the box.

[0113] The foundation of the wall can be a concrete slab type or a pile foundation.

[0114] In the particular case where the construction module M1 has been 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)

[0115] The junction profile 2A is placed vertically on the box 1-1 of the module M1, by inserting the first wing 21 of the junction profile 2A into the first groove R1 of the external side wall 10a of the box 1-1 of the module M1, so that the web 20 of the junction profile is parallel to the external side wall 10a of the box 1-1 and the sole S2 (third and fourth wings 23, 24) of this profile projects in the Y direction relative to the external wall 15a of the panel 15, and is spaced (distance E) from this external wall 15a (external face 1' of the box) in the Y direction.

[0116] Similarly, the junction profile 3A is placed vertically on the box 1-1 of the module M1, by inserting the first wing 21 of the junction 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 junction profile is parallel to the external side wall 10a of the box 1, and the sole S2 (third and fourth wings 23, 24) of this profile projects in the Y direction relative to the internal open face 1" of the box and is spaced (distance E) from this internal open face 1" in the Y direction.

[0117] The length L of the joining profiles may 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 blocked vertically downwards. Step (c)

[0118] The self-supporting box 1-2 of the second module M2 is placed on the foundation of the wall (lower 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.

[0119] Then the second module M2 is brought 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)

[0120] The two boxes 1-1 and 1-2 of the two modules M1 and M2 are assembled by means of through-fasteners 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-fasteners 19, so as to firmly tighten, 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 shield 17 of the two modules M1 and M2.

[0121] When bolts are used, the tightening of the boxes can for example be obtained by means of nuts. Alternatively, this tightening can be obtained by providing in at least one of the side walls of each box one or more threaded inserts capable of cooperating with the bolts.

[0122] The wings 21 and 22, of the junction profiles 2A and 3A advantageously allow perfect alignment of the boxes 1-1 and 1-2 to be obtained.

[0123] The wings 21, 22, 23, and 24 make it possible to obtain a seal in the grooves R1 and R2, by advantageously compressing the sealing joints J in the grooves R1 and R2 of the module M1 and in the grooves R1 and R2 of the module M2. Step (e)

[0124] The box 1-2 of the construction module M2 is firmly anchored in said foundation, by means of dowels, passed through the lower rail 13 of the box.

[0125] In another variant, sealing lugs can also be provided in the foundation, which are used to fix the boxes. Step (f)

[0126] In reference to the figure 8, thermal and / or acoustic insulation I, for example rock wool or glass wool, is placed in the internal space 16 of the boxes 1-1 and 1-2. Step (g)

[0127] The open face 16a of the internal space of each box 1-1 and 1-2 is closed by means of a second panel 15', which is fixed to the uprights 10, 11 and to the rails 12 and 13, for example by screwing or gluing.

[0128] In a non-limiting and non-exhaustive manner of the invention, this second panel 15' may be an OSB panel, a plasterboard type "Placoplâtre" panel, a concrete panel, a composite panel of the fiber concrete type, that is to say in a composite material combining a matrix (the concrete) and a reinforcement (the fibers), more particularly a composite panel of polyester concrete, a plywood panel, an MDF panel, a wood fiber panel of the isorel panel type. The panel 15' may also be a mesh.

[0129] In another variant, the open face 16a of the internal space of each box 1-1 and 1-2 can also remain open, without using a panel 15'.

[0130] The above operations can of course be carried out by reversing the implementation of the boxes and starting (step (a)) with box 1-2 of module M2.

[0131] 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)

[0132] Complete sealing of each box by means of a vapor barrier 18, for example in the form of a tarpaulin impermeable to water and water vapor, can also be carried out on the external walls 15a of the panels 15'.

[0133] The term "vapor barrier" is generally and commonly used to refer to a protective screen that is impermeable to water and water vapor. Thus, moisture present in the air in the form of condensation cannot penetrate this protective screen. Step (i)

[0134] A cladding 4 is fixed on the soles S2, with support function, of the junction profiles 2A, and an interior facing 5 is fixed on the soles S2, with support function, of the junction profiles 3A.

[0135] When the wall is load-bearing, the load borne by the load-bearing wall (weight of the frame and the floor system) is taken up by the boxes of the construction modules and is not carried out by the junction profiles.

[0136] Alternatively, the inner panel 15' may be temporarily and removably assembled to the frame of the box to the box 1 from the stage of manufacturing the box in the workshop or factory. In this case, during the implementation of the box 1 on the construction site, this inner panel 15' is first removed from the box to carry out the fixing to the ground and the fixing of the box with another box and to carry out the filling of the box with the insulation I. Then once the box is assembled and fixed to the ground and the insulation I has been placed in the box, the panel 15' is permanently fixed to the frame of box 1. Double wall

[0137] On the figure 9 , 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, is shown.

[0138] This double wall is built, for example, when seeking to increase thermal and / or acoustic insulation priorities.

[0139] This double wall is constructed using four construction modules M1, M2, M3 and M4, the same two junction profiles 2A and 3A and a third junction profile 3I, allowing the two single walls MS1 and MS2 to be spaced apart.

[0140] 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 only difference that the 3A junction profile of the figure 8 has been replaced by a junction profile 31. Modules M3 and M4 differ essentially from modules M1 and M2 in that they do not have a rain barrier 17 (or a vapor barrier 18).

[0141] The third profile 3I differs from the profiles 2A and 3A previously described in that the width of its core 20, which defines the spacing 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.

[0142] 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 facing each other of the 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 facing each other of the modules M3 and M4.

[0143] Preferably, the panel 15 of the interior modules M3 and M4 is micro-perforated so as to allow condensation to migrate. Box 1 with 17' rain shield and 18' vapor barrier

[0144] It has been represented on the figures 10 And 11, a variant of the construction module comprising a box 1 on which a flexible 17' rain shield is fixed.

[0145] This M construction module differs from that of the Figure 6 , in that the flaps 17a of the rain shield 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.

[0146] In this variant, the rain shield 17' is locally pressed into the grooves R1 of the uprights 10 and 11.

[0147] In reference to the Figure 12 , the insertion of the wing 21 and the wing 22 of the profile 2A into the grooves R1 advantageously makes it possible to wedge the rain shield 17' into the groove R1 of the box of the module M1 and into the groove R1 of the box of the module M2.

[0148] In the case of the Figure 12, the tightening of the junction profile also advantageously makes it possible to tension and better press the rain shield 17' against the external wall 15a of the panel 15.

[0149] In another variant, the rain shield 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 makes it possible to push and wedge the rain shield 17' into the groove R1 of the box of the module M1 and into the groove R1 of the box of the module M2.

[0150] In the variant of the figures 10 And 11 , the building module also includes a flexible 18' vapor barrier, which is attached to box 1.

[0151] This 18' vapor barrier is, for example, a film or tarpaulin impermeable to water and water vapor which is fixed around the entire perimeter of the box.

[0152] In a similar way to the 17' rain barrier, the 18' vapor barrier is locally pressed into the R2 grooves of the uprights 10 and 11.

[0153] In reference to the Figure 12 , the insertion of the wing 21 and the wing 22 of the profile 3A into the grooves R2 advantageously makes it possible to wedge the vapor barrier 18' into the groove R2 of the box of the module M1 and into the groove R2 of the box of the module M2.

[0154] The vapor barrier 18' further comprises two strips 18a and 18b which are folded down so as to close the open face 1" of the box opposite the panel 15, and which overlap at the level of the internal reinforcement 14. These two strips 18a and 18b are held together by means of a repositionable adhesive strip 18c, allowing a seal between the two parts of the two strips 18a and 18b which overlap.

[0155] 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 internal panel 15'.

[0156] Once the box of the construction module is fixed to the ground, filled with insulation I, and closed by the interior 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 external wall of the interior panel 15', so as to ensure water and water vapor tightness.

[0157] In the absence of an interior panel 15', the strips 18a and 18b of this vapor barrier 18' can be folded down and glued to the reinforcement 14 by means of the adhesive strip 18c, so as to close the internal space 16 of the box and to ensure watertightness and water vapor tightness. Other examples of junction profiles 2 and 3

[0158] It has been represented on the figures 15 to 21 , as non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples of the invention, other variants of junction profiles 2 (3), which have in common the fact that they are profiles reconstituted by welding.

[0159] On the figures 15 And 16 , profiles 2B (3B) and 2D (3D) have in cross section the same I-shaped profile as profiles 2A and 3A previously described.

[0160] On the figures 18 And 19 , the 2D (3D) junction profile comprises two U-shaped sub-profiles 25, which extend along the junction profile, which are symmetrical to each other with respect to the thin web 20 of the profile, the bases 25c of which are welded on either side of the web 20 of the profile, and the two wings 25a and 25b of which are oriented perpendicular to the web 20 of the profile.

[0161] The core 20 of the junction profile comprises through holes 20b, of small diameter, distributed along the junction profile and allowing a plug weld on the core 20 of the bases 25c of the U-shaped sub-profiles 25.

[0162] These U-shaped sub-profiles 25 can advantageously be used to embed the edge of a P1 panel on the construction module, and for example (2D profile) an additional insulating panel, mounted on the side of the construction module facing outwards and parallel to the exterior panel 15 or (3D profile) an additional insulating panel, mounted on the side of the construction module facing inwards and parallel to the interior panel 15'.

[0163] The 2E (3E) junction profile of the figure 20 differs from the 2D (3D) profile of the figure 19, by the presence of two additional wings 26, which are positioned between the U-shaped sub-profiles and the wings 21 and 22 and which are symmetrical to each other on either side of the web 20 of the profile. These wings 26 and the wings 25b of the U-shaped sub-profiles 25 can advantageously be used to embed the edge of a panel P2 on the construction module.

[0164] The 2F (3F) junction profile of the figure 21 differs from the 2E (3E) profile of the figure 19 by the presence of two additional 25' U-shaped sub-profiles between the S2 sole and the 25' U-shaped sub-profile. These 25' U-shaped sub-profiles can advantageously be used to embed the edge of an additional P3 panel.

[0165] It is understood in light of the above that the modular construction system can be implemented with a very wide variety of junction profiles, which makes it very flexible and easily adaptable for the construction of walls with varied and more or less complex structures, in particular with a greater or lesser number of insulating panels. Building modules for external corner

[0166] In reference to the figure 22 , the M5 and M6 building modules are suitable for being assembled perpendicular to each other, so as to form an outgoing wall angle.

[0167] The side wall 10a of the box of the construction module M5 is vertical and perpendicular to the frontal 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.

[0168] The side wall 11a of the box of the construction module M6 is vertical and perpendicular to the frontal direction (X direction) of the box and the other side wall 10a of the box is vertical and forms an angle A of 45° with the internal wall 15b of the external panel 15.

[0169] The boxes of modules M5 and M6 are assembled in such a way that their side walls 11a and 10a inclined at 45° are opposite each other, so as to form an outgoing wall angle.

[0170] Furthermore, in this embodiment variant, particular junction profiles 2 (2G) and 3 (3G) are used, the third 23 and fourth wings 24 of which are perpendicular and form a square-shaped sole S2. Construction modules for internal corners

[0171] In reference to the figure 23 , the M7 and M8 construction modules are suitable for being assembled perpendicular to each other so as to form a re-entrant wall angle.

[0172] The external side wall 10a of the box of the construction module M7 is vertical and perpendicular to the frontal 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.

[0173] The external side wall 11a of the box of the construction module M8 is vertical and perpendicular to the frontal 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 the panel 15.

[0174] The boxes of modules M7 and M8 are assembled in such a way that their side walls 11a and 10a inclined at 135° are opposite each other, so as to form a 90° re-entrant wall angle.

[0175] Furthermore, in this embodiment variant, junction profiles 2 (2H) and 3 (3H) are used which are identical respectively to the junction profiles 3 (3G) and 2 (2G) used to construct an external angle. Variant with T-shaped support profile - Figure 24

[0176] 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 recess 27 in the lower part.

[0177] The fastening of boxes 1-1 and 1-2 to the foundation is carried out by means of a profile 28, which extends lengthwise in the Y direction.

[0178] The core 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 sole 28a of this profile 28 is fixed to the foundation.

[0179] The two boxes 1-1- and 1-2 are placed and rest on the sole 28a and are fixed at least on the sole 28a of this profile 28.

[0180] The junction profiles 2 and 3 between the two boxes 1-1 and 1-2 rest on the sole 28a of this profile 28. Variant with rain shield and additional profile and additional panels - Figure 25

[0181] _The construction module of the figure 25 differs from that of the Figure 3 by adding a 17' rain shield, an additional 6 profile, and two additional 7 panels.

[0182] The additional profile 6 preferably has an I-shaped section.

[0183] The two additional panels 7 are for example made of polyurethane.

[0184] 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 shield 17' being locally sandwiched between this additional profile 6 and the panel 15.

[0185] The rain shield 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 grooves 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.

[0186] The rain shield 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.

[0187] Comparably to the variant of 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 shield 17' can be inserted locally and wedged into each groove R1.

[0188] The additional profile 6 can advantageously be used for fixing exterior cladding.

[0189] Advantageously, the construction module comprising the box 1, the additional profile 6 and the rain shield 17' can for example be manufactured initially in a workshop or factory, without the additional panels 7. In a second stage, on the construction site, the additional panels 7 are preferably mounted on the box, and the rain shield 17' is folded down so as to cover the outer faces of the additional panels 7.

[0190] In another variant, the entire building module can be manufactured in a workshop or factory. Variant with rain shield and vapor barrier - Figure 26

[0191] It has been represented on the figure 26 , a modular building system comprising two building modules, each of which comprises a 1-1, 1-2 box provided with a 17' flexible exterior rain barrier and an 18' flexible interior vapor barrier.

[0192] Each 1-1, 1-2 box is mainly differentiated from the box 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 devoid of groove R2, and the two boxes 1-1 and 1-2 are assembled end to end by means of a junction profile 2 between boxes and through fixings making it possible to tighten the junction profile 2 between the two boxes.

[0193] The construction system of the figure 26also comprises an additional junction profile 8, preferably I-shaped, which is fixed to the uprights 10, 11 of the two boxes 1-1 and 1-2.

[0194] In the junction area 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' junction profile and the 10,11 uprights of the boxes.

[0195] Each box 1-1, 1-2 is advantageously filled with thermal and / or acoustic insulation I.

[0196] Each box 1-1, 1-2 of the figure 26 , including its filling with insulation I, can advantageously be prefabricated in the workshop or factory. The assembly operations of the two boxes 1-1 and 1-2 by means of junction profiles 2 and 8 can be carried out on the construction site.

[0197] The invention is not limited to the particular embodiment variants which have been described with reference to the appended figures. In a non-exhaustive manner, other modifications described below may also be made.

[0198] The fastener(s) 19 used to assemble the two boxes are not necessarily through-holes, but may in another variant of the invention be non-through-holes.

[0199] The elements (uprights 10, 11, rails 12, 13 and reinforcements 14) constituting the frame of the box are not necessarily made of wood, but may be made of another material, and in particular of plastic. The outer panel 15 may also be made of plastic. Certain plastic parts of the box may also be made in a single piece by molding or equivalent; for example the uprights 10, 11, the rails 12, 13 and the panel 15 may be made in a single piece.

[0200] The box of a construction module may have a single rectilinear 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.

[0201] The box of a construction module may have a single rectilinear 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, the supporting wings of which project on 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.

[0202] The box of a building module may have three or more parallel rectilinear grooves in its two side walls 10a and 11a. In this case, the joining profiles will be adapted so that they have pairs of additional wings 21 and 22 which can be inserted into the additional grooves.

[0203] The box of a building module can also be a corner box having an L-shape. In this case, the two upper flanks F3 and lower F4 of the box can be L-shaped plates. The two external side walls 10a and 11a of the box are spaced from each other in both directions X and Y and are oriented perpendicular to each other. The outer panel 15 and the inner panel 15' are for example each in two parts, which are fixed respectively on the two right-angled parts of the L-shaped box.

[0204] The boxes of the construction modules of the invention can also be implemented by being superimposed.

[0205] The base (lower rail) of a box may also have a greater width so as to be partly projecting in the Y direction relative to the outer panel 15 or relative to the inner panel 15'. This modification may be particularly useful in the case of the construction of a double wall, by abutting against each other the widened bases of the boxes which are opposite each other.

[0206] Although the modular system of the invention is primarily suitable for the construction of a vertical wall-type structure, the invention is not, however, limited to the construction of a vertical structure. 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 building system comprising at least two building modules (M1 / M2; M3 / M4; M5 / M6; M7 / M8), at least one first connecting profile (2 or 3), and one or more fasteners (19), wherein each building 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 external side wall (10a) and a second external side wall (11a), which are spaced from each other at least in the second direction (X) and which each comprise at least one first groove (R1 or R2) rectilinear and parallel to the first direction (Z), in which the first joining profile (2 or 3) is adapted to be able to be partly inserted, being oriented parallel to the first direction (Z), into the first groove (R1 or R2) of a first external side wall (10a) of one of the boxes (1-1 or 1-2) and into the first groove (R1 or R2) of a second external side wall (11a) of the other box (1-2 or 1-1) when the two external side walls (10a;11a) are positioned opposite each other, such that a part of the first joining profile (2 or 3), which is intended to have a supporting function, projects relative to a first face (1' or 1") of the boxes (1-1 and 1-2) and is spaced from the boxes (1-1 and 1-2) in the third direction (Y), and wherein the fastener(s) (19) are adapted to assemble and tighten the two boxes (1-1 and 1-2) with the two external side walls (10a; 11a) of the two boxes opposite each other and to assemble the first joining profile (2 or 3) with the two boxes, by tightening this first joining profile (2 or 3) between the two external side walls (10a; 11a) of the boxes.; 2. Modular building system according to claim 1, wherein the first joining profile (2 or 3) comprises a web (20), which extends in length, and at least a first wing (21) and a second wing (22), which are positioned on either side of the web (20) of the first joining profile (2 or 3) and which extend in the direction of the length 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 wing (21) and the second wing (22) constituting the parts of the first joining profile (2 or 3) which are adapted to be inserted respectively into the first groove (R1 or R2) of the first external side wall (10a) and into the first groove (R1 or R2) of the second external side wall (11a) of each box,and preferably in which the first wing (21) and the second wing (22) constitute a first sole (S1) forming a T with the web (20) of the first junction profile (2 or 3)., 3. Modular building system according to claim 2, wherein the supporting part of the first connecting profile (2 or 3) comprises at least one third wing (23) or one fourth wing (24), which extends in the direction of the length of the web (20) of the profile and transversely to the web (20) of the profile, or wherein the supporting part of the first connecting profile (2 or 3) comprises at least one third wing (23) and one fourth wing (24), which extend in the direction of the length of the web of the profile and transversely to the web (20) of the profile, the third wing (23) and the fourth wing (24) being positioned on either side of the web (20) of the profile, and preferably wherein the third wing (23) and the fourth wing (24) form a second flange (S2) with the web (20) of the first junction profile (2 or 3).

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

5. Modular building system according to claim 4, comprising at least one second joining profile (3 or 2), wherein the second joining profile (3 or 2) is adapted to be able to be partly inserted into the second grooves (R2 or R1) of a first external side wall (10a) of one of the boxes (1-1 or 1-2) and of a second external side wall (11a) of the other box (1-2 or 1-1) when the two external side walls (10a;11a) are positioned opposite each other, such that a part of the second joining profile (3 or 2), which is intended to have a supporting function, projects relative to 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) is partly inserted into the second grooves (R2 or R1) of the two boxes, the clamping of the two boxes by means of the fixing(s) (19) also makes it possible to assemble the second joining profile (3 or 2) with the two boxes, by clamping this second joining profile (3 or 2) between the two external side walls (10a; 11a) of the boxes.; 6. Modular building system according to claim 5, wherein the second joining profile (3 or 2) comprises a web (20), which extends in length, and at least a first wing (21) and a second wing (22), which are positioned on either side of the web (20) of the second joining profile (3 or 2) and which extend in the direction of the length of the web (20) of the second joining profile and perpendicular to the web (20) of the second joining profile, the first wing (21) and the second wing (22) constituting the parts of the second joining profile (3 or 2) which are adapted to be inserted respectively into the second groove (R2 or R1) of the first external side wall (10a) and into the second groove (R2 or R1) of the second external side wall (11a), and preferably wherein the first wing (21) and the second wing (22) constitute a sole (S1) forming a T with the core (20) of the second junction profile (3 or 2).

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

8. Modular construction system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, in which each construction module comprises, for each groove of each box (1-1; 1-2), a sealing joint (J) which is housed, preferably entirely, in the groove or in which the part of each joining profile intended to be inserted into a groove (R1 or R2) is provided with a sealing joint.

9. Modular building system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein each box (1-1; 1-2) comprises a first flank (F1) and a second flank (F2) which are spaced from each other at least in the second direction (X) and which are connected by a third flank (F3) and by a fourth flank (F4) spaced from each other in the first direction (Z), wherein the first external side wall (10a) of the box is constituted by the external wall of the first flank (F1) and the second external side wall (11a) of the box is constituted by the external wall of the second flank (F2) and wherein each box (1-1;1-2) comprises at least one first panel (15), which delimits with the four sides (F1, F2, F3, F4) an internal space (16), and preferably the modular construction system comprises at least one second panel (15'), which is adapted to be fixed to the four sides (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 internal space (16) box.; 10. Modular construction system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, in which at least one construction module, and preferably each construction module, comprises a rain shield (17 or 17'), preferably flexible, which is fixed to the box so as to protect the first face (1') of the box.

11. Modular building 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 in which the flaps (17a) of the rain shield (17 or 17') extend at least as far as the first grooves (R1) of the two outer side walls (10a; 11a), and more preferably in which 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 inserted locally and wedged into each first groove (R1) or in which the flaps (17a) of the rain shield (17') are inserted locally into the first grooves (R1) of the two external side walls (10a; 11a), so that the rain shield (17') can be wedged into each first groove (R1.

12. Modular building system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein at least one building module, and preferably each building module comprises a vapor barrier (18 or 18') which 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 makes it possible to cover the external wall (15b) of the second panel (15'), when this second panel (15') has been fixed to close the box, and / or preferably in which the vapor barrier (18') covers the groove (R2) or one (R2) of the grooves of each of the two external side walls (10a; 11a), so that the vapor barrier (18') can be inserted locally and wedged in each of said grooves (R2) or in which the vapor barrier (18') is inserted locally in the groove (R2) or in one (R2) of the grooves of the two external 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 adapted to be 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 adapted to be assembled by being aligned in the extension of 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 adapted to be assembled perpendicular to one another.

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

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

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

18. A method of constructing a portion of a wall using a modular construction system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, said method comprising the following steps: (a) laying a first box of a first construction module on a foundation intended to support the wall, such that the first direction (Z) of the box is vertical and fixing 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 external side walls of this box, such that a second part of this first joining profile (2 or 3) projects in the second direction (X) relative to this external side wall and a third part of this first joining profile (2 or 3) projects in the third direction (Y) relative to a first face (1' or 1") of the box;(c) laying on the foundation of a second box of a second construction module, such 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 external side walls (11a or 10a) of this box; (d) assembling the two boxes by means of one or more fasteners (19) with the external side walls (10a and 11a) of the two boxes facing each other, and tightening the two boxes by means of the fastener(s) (19), so as to tighten the first joining profile (2 or 3) between said external side walls; (e) fixing the second box to the foundation; (f) optionally, placing in the boxes a thermal and / or acoustic insulator (I); (g) optionally, closing each box using a panel (15').; 19. Method according to claim 18 in which in step (b), a second joining profile (3 or 2) is also inserted into a second groove (R2) of this same external side wall (10a or 11a), such that a second part of the second joining profile (3 or 2) projects in the second direction (X) relative to this external side wall and a third part of the second joining profile (3 or 2) projects in the third direction (Y) relative to a second face (1") of the box opposite the first face (1'), in which in step (c) said second part of the second joining profile (3 or 2) is inserted into a second groove (R2) of the external side wall (11a or 10a) of the second box, and in which in step (d) the clamping of the two boxes also makes it possible to clamp the second joining profile (3 or 2) between the side walls external of the two boxes.

20. Method according to any one of claims 18 or 19, in which a functional and / or aesthetic structure is fixed, and more particularly a cladding (4) or an interior facing (5) on each third part of each junction profile (2) projecting relative to one (1' or 1") of the faces of the boxes.

Images