Assembly kit for construction of an arched cover structure and structure constructed out of the same

Abstract

There is described an assembly kit for construction of an arched cover structure, in particular a dome-like or hemicylindrical structure (DM; CM), comprising a plurality of modular assembly bricks (BRA, BRB, BR0, BR1, BR2, BRa, BRb, BRc) configured to be engageable one with the other to form the arched cover structure (DM). The modular assembly bricks (BRA, BRB, BR0, BR1, BR2, BRa, BRb, BRc) include a plurality of main assembly bricks (BRA, BRB) that are assemblable one with the other in groups. Each main assembly brick (BRA, BRB) consists of a multi-branch structural element (110, 120) comprising multiple connecting branches (110A, 110B, 110C, 120A, 120B, 120C) extending in distinct directions away from a center of the multi-branch structural element (110, 120) and delineating a corresponding number of cutouts (110-1, 110-2, 110-3, 120-1, 120-2, 120-3). A distal end of each connecting branch (110A, 110B, 110C, 120A, 120B, 120C) forms a corresponding connecting interface for connection to adjacent assembly bricks (BRA, BRB, BR1, BR2, BRa, BRb), each connecting interface including a connector element (200) configured to cooperate with a corresponding connector element (200) provided on the adjacent assembly brick (BRA, BRB, BR1, BR2, BRa, BRb).

Description

[0001] ASSEMBLY KIT FOR CONSTRUCTION OF AN ARCHED COVER STRUCTURE AND STRUCTURE CONSTRUCTED OUT OF THE SAME

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention generally relates to an assembly kit for construction of an arched cover structure, in particular a dome-like or hemicylindrical structure, comprising a plurality of modular assembly bricks configured to be engageable one with the other to form the arched cover structure. The invention also relates to a building structure including an arched cover structure constructed out of such an assembly kit.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] U.S. Patent No. US 2,918,992 A discloses a building structure constructed out of modular assembly elements forming pentagonal and hexagonal building subassemblies that are assembled with one another in accordance with part of a truncated icosahedron arrangement. In one embodiment, the pentagonal and hexagonal building subassemblies are formed of two different types of main assembly elements each exhibiting an isosceles triangular face. A first series of the main assembly elements can be assembled one with the other in groups of five to form the pentagonal building subassemblies, while a second series of the main assembly elements can be assembled one with the other in groups of six to form the hexagonal building subassemblies. Each of the three sides of the main assembly elements is provided with a marginal flanged portion that can be secured to a corresponding marginal flanged portion of an adjacent main assembly element by means of screws and bolts. Windows can be provided either by replacing selected ones of the main assembly elements by corresponding triangular window units or by forming dedicated window openings in the main assembly elements.

[0006] U.S. Patents Nos. US 3,043,054 A and US 3,881 ,284 A disclose further examples of building structures constructed out of modular assembly elements forming pentagonal and hexagonal building subassemblies, which building subassemblies are likewise secured one to the other by means of screws and bolts.

[0007] U.S. Patent Publication No. US 2016 / 0258152 A1 discloses a building structure constructed out of modular triangular panels that are assembled one with the other by means of mounting hubs to form pentagonal and / or hexagonal building subassemblies. Each corner of the modular triangular panels is equipped with a threaded sleeve for receiving a bolt to secure the relevant corner to a corresponding mounting hub. The triangular panels are pre-casted with magnesium phosphate ceramic cement. The triangular panels in particular consist of multiple layers of magnesium phosphate ceramic cement poured into a mould with successive layers at various levels of porosity, reinforced with basalt and hemp fibres.

[0008] U.S. Patent No. US 10,633,881 B1 discloses yet another example of a building structure constructed out of modular pentagonal and hexagonal assembly bricks, which building structure is designed to act as tornado shelter. The assembly bricks are provided with interlocking tongues and grooves to allow interlocking of the relevant assembly bricks. Each assembly brick is hollow and configured to comprise a cavity that can be filled by pouring a flowable ballast material (such as water, sand or soil) via a filler opening.

[0009] Chinese Patent Publication No. CN 114396119 A discloses yet another example of a building structure constructed out of modular pentagonal and hexagonal assembly bricks.

[0010] U.S. Patent No. US 3,898,777 A discloses a structural arrangement for dome-shaped or vault-like structures including prefabricated, three-terminal members having “Y” or inverted delta shaped configurations that are assembled in successive tiers and interconnected with one another at their terminal ends. More specifically, the prefabricated members each consist of a concrete envelope or skin and centrally disposed metal reinforcing members which are largely embedded within the envelope. The reinforcing members comprise interconnected spokes whose threaded ends extend from the legs of the prefabricated members for cooperation with separate coupling members. In that regard, the separate coupling members are required to assemble the prefabricated members one with the other.

[0011] U.S. Patent No. US 3,197,927 A discloses geodesic structures built of individual structural elements. Two types of structural elements are contemplated, namely (i) sheet or plate-like members of generally hexagonal form and (ii) three-branch framework members. In the first case, the sheet or plate-like members are held together by means of separate tension rings constructed as tightening or clamping means that cooperate with upwardly extending arcuate flanges of the members or by means of flanged “manhole covers” that are arranged to engage the outer surfaces of the collar formed by the arcuate flanges. In the second case, an additional, separate tensioning structure is specifically required which is positioned within troughs formed in the outer surfaces of the members.

[0012] European Patent Publication No. EP 0 013 285 A1 disclose a modular framed structure constructed by using uniform, rigid Y joints which have branches forming angles 120°, 120° and 108° in space. These Y joints are either directly welded to other Y joints or indirectly connected to other Y joints through couplings or bolts.

[0013] A limitation with the known solutions especially resides in the unsatisfactory attachment of the assembly bricks one with the other. The known solutions either employ conventional screws and bolts to secure the assembly bricks one with the other, which requires specific tooling to perform the assembly, or simple interlocking arrangements that are not reliable enough to ensure proper structural integrity of the resulting building structure.

[0014] The formation of openings in the resulting building structure for the provision e.g. of windows is also made complex or simply impossible due to the actual structure of the relevant assembly bricks and building subassemblies.

[0015] The known solutions furthermore fail to duly consider ventilation requirements of the resulting building structure in the design of the relevant assembly bricks.

[0016] There therefore remains a need for an improved solution. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0017] A general aim of the invention is to provide an assembly kit for construction of an arched cover structure which remedies the limitations and shortcomings of the known solutions.

[0018] More specifically, an aim of the present invention is to provide such a solution that facilitates construction of a building structure incorporating part or all of an arched cover structure and that is moreover robust.

[0019] A further aim of the invention is to provide such a solution that facilitates integration of openings in the resulting building structure for the provision e.g. of window units.

[0020] Another aim of the invention is to provide such a solution that suitably takes into consideration ventilation requirements of the resulting building structure to provide some level of control of the temperature and humidity within an interior environment of the building structure.

[0021] These aims, and others, are achieved thanks to the solutions defined in the claims.

[0022] There is accordingly provided, in accordance with a first aspect of the invention, an assembly kit for construction of an arched cover structure, in particular a dome-like or hemicylindrical structure, the features of which are recited in claim 1 , namely, such an assembly kit comprising a plurality of modular assembly bricks configured to be engageable one with the other to form the arched cover structure, wherein the modular assembly bricks include a plurality of main assembly bricks that are assemblable one with the other in groups. According to this first aspect of the invention, each main assembly brick consists of a multi-branch structural element comprising multiple connecting branches extending in distinct directions away from a center of the multi-branch structural element and delineating a corresponding number of cutouts. Furthermore, a distal end of each connecting branch forms a corresponding connecting interface for connection to adjacent assembly bricks, each connecting interface including a connector element configured to cooperate with a corresponding connector element provided on the adjacent assembly brick. Various preferred and / or advantageous embodiments of this assembly kit form the subject-matter of dependent claims 2 to 25 and 27 to 53.

[0023] Especially, in accordance with a preferred embodiment, each main assembly brick is hollow and defines a ventilation spacing allowing circulation of air through each main assembly brick and thus within walls of the arched cover structure. This constitutes in effect a further aspect of the invention that is also potentially applicable independently of the first aspect of the invention.

[0024] There is accordingly provided, in accordance with a second aspect of the invention, an assembly kit for construction of an arched cover structure, in particular a dome-like or hemicylindrical structure, the features of which are recited in independent claim 26, namely, such an assembly kit comprising a plurality of modular assembly bricks configured to be engageable one with the other to form the arched cover structure, wherein the modular assembly bricks include a plurality of main assembly bricks that are assemblable one with the other in groups. According to this second aspect of the invention, each main assembly brick is hollow and defines a ventilation spacing allowing circulation of air through each main assembly brick and thus within walls of the arched cover structure. Furthermore, each main assembly brick is provided with connecting interfaces for connection to adjacent assembly bricks, each of the connecting interfaces including a connector element configured to cooperate with a corresponding connector element provided on the adjacent assembly brick.

[0025] Various preferred and / or advantageous embodiments of this assembly kit form the subject-matter of dependent claims 27 to 53.

[0026] Also claimed pursuant to claim 54 is a building structure including an arched cover structure constructed out of the assembly kit according to the invention.

[0027] Various preferred and / or advantageous embodiments of this building structure form the subject-matter of dependent claims 55 to 64.

[0028] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are discussed below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Other features and advantages of the present invention will appear more clearly from reading the following detailed description of embodiments of the invention which are presented solely by way of non-restrictive examples and illustrated by the attached drawings in which:

[0030] Figure 1A is a schematic perspective view a dome-like structure constructed out of an assembly kit in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

[0031] Figure 1 B is a schematic perspective view of the dome-like structure of Figure 1A shown from a different viewing angle and with door panels opened to reveal a passageway through the structure;

[0032] Figure 2A is a schematic view of a truncated icosahedron serving as a baseline for the design of modular assembly bricks used to build the dome-like structure of Figures 1A-B;

[0033] Figure 2B is a schematic view of the truncated icosahedron of Figure 2A partially overlaid by a shell outline delineating the outline of relevant dome-like structure;

[0034] Figure 2C is a schematic view of the truncated icosahedron and shell outline of Figure 2B showing the shell outline provided with openings to form an openwork structure;

[0035] Figure 2D is a schematic view of the openwork structure of Figure 2C shown in isolation;

[0036] Figure 2E is a schematic view showing a decomposition of the openwork structure of Figure 2D in corresponding, faceted assembly bricks reflecting the hemispherical arrangement of assembly bricks shown in Figures 1 A-B;

[0037] Figure 3A is a perspective view of a three-branch structural element, as seen from an exterior side, used as a first main assembly brick in the construction of the dome-like structure of Figures 1 A-B;

[0038] Figure 3B is a perspective view of the three-branch structural element of Figure 3A as seen from a lateral side;

[0039] Figure 3C is a perspective view of the three-branch structural element of Figures 3A-B as seen from an interior side; Figure 3D is a schematic perspective view of the three-branch structural element of Figures 3A-C shown inscribed within an imaginary pyramidal frustum;

[0040] Figure 4A is a perspective view of a pentagonal building subassembly, as seen from the exterior side, consisting of a circular arrangement of five main assembly bricks as depicted in Figures 3A-D;

[0041] Figure 4B is a perspective view of the pentagonal building subassembly of Figure 4A as seen from the interior side;

[0042] Figure 4C is an enlarged perspective view of the connection between two adjacent main assembly bricks of the pentagonal building subassembly of Figures 4A-B;

[0043] Figure 5A is a perspective view of another three-branch structural element, as seen from an exterior side, used as a second main assembly brick in the construction of the dome-like structure of Figures 1 A-B;

[0044] Figure 5B is a perspective view of the three-branch structural element of Figure 5A as seen from an interior side;

[0045] Figure 6A is a perspective view of a hexagonal building subassembly, as seen from the exterior side, consisting of a circular arrangement of six main assembly bricks as depicted in Figures 5A-B;

[0046] Figure 6B is a perspective view of the hexagonal building subassembly of Figure 6A as seen from the interior side;

[0047] Figure 7 is an enlarged partial perspective view of a distal end of one connecting branch of a multi-branch structural element corresponding to those depicted in Figures 3A-D and Figures 5A-B, as seen from the interior side of an exterior panel of the three-branch structural element, with the interior panel thereof being omitted for the sake of illustration;

[0048] Figure 8A is a schematic perspective view of the assembly of two adjacent three-branch structural elements corresponding to those depicted in Figures 3A- D and Figures 5A-B, as seen from a lateral side;

[0049] Figure 8B is an enlarged partial perspective view of the assembly of Figure 8A showing the mutual engagement of two connector elements mating one with the other to form a connector assembly; Figure 9A is an exploded perspective view of the connector assembly of Figure 8B and of an associated locking key;

[0050] Figure 9B is a perspective view of the connector assembly of Figure 9A, with the two connector elements engaged one with the other to form the connector assembly;

[0051] Figure 9C is a perspective view of the connector assembly of Figure 9B with the locking key fully inserted through a transversal hole formed through the connector assembly;

[0052] Figure 9D is a perspective view of the connector assembly of Figure 9C with the locking key turned by 90° to lock the connector assembly and prevent disengagement of the two connector elements;

[0053] Figure 10A is a perspective view of the hexagonal building subassembly of Figures 6A-B equipped with a releasable panel unit inserted through and mounted within an opening formed in a central portion of the hexagonal building subassembly;

[0054] Figure 10B is an exploded perspective view showing the hexagonal building subassembly of Figure 10A with the releasable panel unit removed from the hexagonal building subassembly;

[0055] Figure 11A is perspective view of a releasable panel unit shown in isolation;

[0056] Figure 11 B is a perspective view of a cross-section of the releasable panel unit of Figure 11A;

[0057] Figure 12A is a partial cross-sectional view of the releasable panel unit of Figures 11 A-B showing a locking device thereof used to lock the releasable panel unit in place upon mounting on the associated building subassembly, the locking device being shown in an unlocked configuration;

[0058] Figure 12B is a partial cross-sectional view of the releasable panel unit of Figure 12A showing the locking device in a locked configuration;

[0059] Figure 12C is a partial perspective view of a cross-section showing part of a releasable panel unit mounted on an adjacent main assembly brick and showing the locking device in its locked configuration; Figure 13A is a perspective view of a venting assembly brick, as seen from an exterior side, used as ground assembly brick to form part of the base of the dome-like structure as depicted in Figures 1A-B;

[0060] Figure 13B is a perspective view of the venting assembly brick of Figure 13A with an exterior panel thereof and associated shutter plate omitted to reveal an inner venting space of the venting assembly brick;

[0061] Figure 13C is a perspective view of the venting assembly brick of Figures 13A-B, as seen from an interior side;

[0062] Figure 13D is a perspective view of the venting assembly brick of Figure 13C with an interior panel thereof and associated shutter plate omitted to reveal the inner venting space of the venting assembly brick;

[0063] Figure 14A is a perspective view of an assembly of two adjacent assembly bricks, as seen from an exterior side, used as intermediate assembly brick to form another part of the base of the dome-like structure as depicted in Figures 1 A-B;

[0064] Figure 14B is a perspective view of the assembly of Figure 14A as shown from an interior side;

[0065] Figure 15A is a schematic illustration of a dome-like structure according to an embodiment of the invention equipped with actuatable venting mechanisms which are configured to allow circulation of air by convection to provide passive control of the temperature and humidity within an interior environment of the dome-like structure during e.g. summertime;

[0066] Figure 15B is a schematic illustration of the dome-like structure of Figure 15A with the actuatable venting mechanisms reconfigured to allow circulation of air by convection to provide passive control of the temperature and humidity within the interior environment of the dome-like structure during e.g. wintertime;

[0067] Figure 15C is a schematic illustration of a dome-like structure according to an embodiment of the invention equipped with actuatable venting mechanisms, as well as a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system and fans which are configured to provide active control of the temperature and humidity within an interior environment of the dome-like structure during e.g. summertime; Figure 15D is a schematic illustration the dome-like structure of Figure 15C reconfigured to provide active control of the temperature and humidity within the interior environment of the dome-like structure during e.g. wintertime;

[0068] Figure 15E is a schematic illustration of a dome-like structure according to an embodiment of the invention equipped with actuatable venting mechanisms, as well as a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system and an embedded optical device generating heat, the actuatable venting mechanisms being configured to provide control of the cooling of the optical device;

[0069] Figure 15F is a schematic illustration of a dome-like structure according to an embodiment of the invention equipped with an embedded optical device, such as a smart glass device, used to adjust or block transmission of light into an interior environment of the dome-like structure;

[0070] Figure 15G is a schematic illustration of a dome-like structure according to an embodiment of the invention equipped with a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system and an embedded optical device, such as a photovoltaic device, used to harvest energy and block transmission of light into an interior environment of the dome-like structure;

[0071] Figure 16A is a schematic perspective view a dome-like structure constructed out of an assembly kit in accordance with another embodiment of the invention;

[0072] Figure 16B is a schematic perspective view a hemicylindrical structure constructed out of an assembly kit in accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention;

[0073] Figure 17A is a perspective view of a three-branch structural element in accordance with a possible embodiment of the invention, as seen from an exterior side, which three-branch structural element is usable as a first main assembly brick in the construction of a dome-like structure as shown schematically in Figure 16A;

[0074] Figure 17B is a perspective view of the three-branch structural element of Figure 17A as seen from an interior side;

[0075] Figure 17C is a perspective view of the three-branch structural element of Figures 17A-B as seen from a different viewing angle; Figures 17D is a partial perspective view of a distal end of one branch of the three-branch structural element of Figures 17A-C highlighting a corresponding one of the connector elements provided thereat;

[0076] Figure 18A is a view of a lower side of a releasable panel unit that is insertable through and mountable within a corresponding opening formed at the intersection between adjacent pentagonal and hexagonal building subassemblies of the dome-like structure as shown schematically in Figure 16A;

[0077] Figure 18B is a perspective view of the releasable panel unit of Figure 18A as shown from an opposite, upper side;

[0078] Figure 18C is a partial perspective view of a cross-section showing part of a peripheral portion of the releasable panel unit of Figures 18A-B;

[0079] Figure 19 is a partial perspective view of a cross-section showing part of the mutual joining of two adjacent releasable panel units as shown in Figures 18A-C and of three-branch structural element as shown in Figures 17A-D;

[0080] Figure 20A is a perspective view of a three-branch structural element in accordance with another embodiment of the invention, as seen from an exterior side, which three-branch structural element is usable as a first main assembly brick in the construction of a dome-like structure as shown schematically in Figure 16A;

[0081] Figure 20B is a view of the three-branch structural element of Figure 20A as seen from an interior side;

[0082] Figure 20C is a perspective view of the three-branch structural element of Figures 20A-B, with an exterior panel thereof being removed to reveal a honeycomb spacer structure of three-branch structural element;

[0083] Figure 20D is a partial top view of a distal end of one branch of the three- branch structural element of Figures 20A-C, with the exterior panel removed for illustration purposes, highlighting a corresponding one of the connector elements provided thereat; and

[0084] Figure 20E is a partial perspective view of the distal end of Figure 20D, with the exterior panel shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0085] The present invention will be described in relation to various illustrative embodiments. It shall be understood that the scope of the invention encompasses all combinations and sub-combinations of the features of the embodiments disclosed herein as defined by the appended claims.

[0086] As described herein, when two or more parts or components are described as being connected, attached, secured or coupled to one another, they can be so connected, attached, secured or coupled directly to each other or through one or more intermediary parts.

[0087] Embodiments of the invention will especially be described with reference to Figures 1A-B to 20A-E.

[0088] Figures 1A-B show an example of an arched cover structure taking the form of a dome-like structure DM constructed out of an assembly kit in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. In the illustrated example, the assembly kit comprises a plurality of modular assembly bricks BRA, BRB, BRO, BRI, BR2, BRa, BRb, BRCthat are configured to be engageable one with the other to form the dome-like structure DM. The dome-like structure DM is frameless in that it does not require the provision of any specific, dedicated frame to support the desired structure DM. Rather, the assembly bricks BRA, BRB, BRO, BR1, BR2, BRa, BRb, BRCthemselves provide structural integrity to the dome-like structure DM upon being assembled one with the other, which greatly simplifies assembly work. The main, hemispherical portion of the dome-like structure DM is essentially constructed out of an assembly of main assembly bricks BRA, BRB including a first series of assembly bricks BRA (see Figures 3A-D and 4A-C) and a second series of assembly bricks BRB (see Figures 5A-B and 6A-B) that are substantially similar but differ in the relevant dimensions and geometries thereof. In effect, the first series of assembly bricks BRA are configured to be assemblable one with the other in circular groups of five to form pentagonal building subassemblies PENTA as shown in isolation in Figure 4A-C, while the second series of assembly bricks BRB are configured to be assemblable one with the other in circular groups of six to form hexagonal building subassemblies HEXA as shown in isolation in Figure 6A-B. In the illustration of Figures 1A-B, the dome-like structure DM includes a base BA onto which the main assembly bricks BRA, BRB are assembled. The base BA in effect consists of two layers of base assembly bricks, namely, (i) ground assembly bricks BRo (and BRC) that provide a ground connection for the dome-like structure DM and (ii) intermediate assembly bricks BRi, BR2 (and BRb) that provide a connection between the ground assembly brick BRo (and BRC) and the main assembly bricks BRA, BRB. In other embodiments, the base BA could be constructed partly or entirely of one or more corresponding base sections that can be coupled directly to the main assembly bricks BRA, BRB.

[0089] Also visible in Figures 1 A-B, are frame assembly bricks BRa, BRb, BRCthat are configured to define and provide a passageway PW (visible in Figure 1 B) through the dome-like structure DM. Part or all of this passageway PW can furthermore be selectively closed by one or more door panels DR as shown. While not shown in isolation, one will note that the pairs of intermediate assembly bricks BRa, BRb, BRCforming the frame around the passageway PW consist of corresponding portions of assembly bricks BRA, BRI and BRo, respectively.

[0090] For the sake of illustration, the dome-like structure DM shown in Figures 1A-B exhibits an overall external diameter of the order of 5 meters and an overall height of the order of 3 meters. The interior environment INT of the dome-like structure DM provides a floor area of the order of 16 square meters. These dimensions are essentially defined by the relevant dimensions of the assembly bricks BRA, BRB, BRO, BRI, BR2, BRa, BRb, BRC, and other overall dimensions could be achieved by playing with the relevant assembly brick dimensions.

[0091] The underlying principle governing how the main assembly bricks BRA, BRB are defined and assembled to form the dome-like structure DM is illustrated by Figures 2A-E. Figure 2A shows a so-called truncated icosahedron, which is an Archimedean solid approximating the shape of a sphere and that consists of thirty-two faces made of regular polygons, namely, twelve regular pentagonal faces P and twenty regular hexagonal faces H defining sixty vertices and ninety edges. Figure 2B shows the truncated icosahedron of Figure 2A partially overlaid by a shell outline S delineating the outline of the relevant dome-like structure DM. In the illustrated example, the shell outline covers slightly more than a hemispherical portion of a sphere. Figure 2C shows the truncated icosahedron and shell outline S of Figure 2B, which shell outline S is provided with circular openings of different sizes to form an openwork structure. In the illustration of Figure 2C, circular openings are centered along axes extending from the center of the truncated icosahedron through each relevant vertex of the truncated icosahedron as well as along axes extending from the center of the truncated icosahedron perpendicularly to each relevant polygonal face. In the illustration of Figure 2C, smaller circular openings are formed at positions corresponding to the axes that are perpendicular to the pentagonal faces P of the truncated icosahedron, and the remaining openings basically have the same, greater size, although different sizes could be contemplated. The result is an openwork structure, as shown in isolation in Figure 2D, slightly greater that an hemisphere, that is provided with a number of openings, including six openings of smaller dimensions (one on top and five distributed about the circumference). In order to arrive at the dome-like structure DM depicted in Figures 1A-B, the relevant openwork structure of Figure 2D is ultimately decomposed into a plurality of faceted elements, including faceted elements that basically correspond to the aforementioned main assembly bricks BRA, BRB. The lower portion of the structure is decomposed into further faceted elements that basically correspond to the aforementioned intermediate assembly bricks BRi, BR2.

[0092] In the illustrated example, two types of main assembly bricks BRA, BRB are sufficient to build most part of the dome-like structure DM. Figures 3A-D illustrate the first type of main assembly bricks BRA, while Figures 5A-B illustrate the second type of main assembly bricks BRB. AS is immediately apparent, both types of main assembly bricks essentially share the same overall configuration, namely, each consist of a three-branch structural element 110, resp. 120, comprising first, second and third connecting branches 110A, 11 OB, 110C, resp. 120A, 120B, 120C, extending in distinct directions away from a center of the three-branch structural element 110, resp. 120. More specifically, the connecting branches 110A-110C, resp. 120A-120C delineate three corresponding cutouts 110-1 , 110-2, 110-3, resp. 120-1 , 120-2, 120-3, as depicted in Figures 3A, 3C, 3D, 5A and 5B. Upon assembly, the cutouts 110-1 to 110-3, resp. 120-1 to 120-3, define corresponding openings in the dome-like structure DM, which openings can especially be exploited for the purpose of mounting releasable panel units as described below.

[0093] In effect, upon assembly of the main assembly bricks BRA into the pentagonal building subassembly PENTA shown in Figures 4A-C, the cutouts 110-2 jointly form a first opening, designated OPA at the center of the pentagonal building subassembly PENTA. Similarly, upon assembly of the main assembly bricks BRB into the hexagonal building subassembly HEXA shown in Figures 6A- B, the cutouts 120-2 jointly form a second opening, designated OPB at the center of the hexagonal building subassembly HEXA. Upon joining one pentagonal building subassembly PENTA and two adjacent hexagonal building subassemblies HEXA, the remaining cutouts 110-1 , 110-3, 120-1 , 120-3 jointly form a third opening, designated OPc at the intersection between the relevant building subassemblies. The first openings OPA are the smaller and, by way of preference, the size of the second openings OPB is selected to correspond substantially to that of the third openings OPc, although different sizes could potentially be contemplated.

[0094] As depicted in Figures 3A-D and 5A-B, a distal end of each of the first to third connecting branches 110A-110C, resp. 120A-120C, forms a corresponding one of first to third connecting interfaces for connection to adjacent assembly bricks (be it another main assembly brick BRA or BRB or other assembly bricks, including bricks BRi, BR2, BRa, or BRb depicted in Figures 1A-B). To this end, each of the first to third connecting interfaces includes a connector element 200 that is configured to cooperate with a corresponding connector element 200 provided on the adjacent assembly brick.

[0095] In the illustrated example, as already mentioned, the first series of main assembly bricks BRA are assemblable one with the other in circular groups of five to form pentagonal building subassemblies PENTA, as shown in Figures 4A-C, while the second series of main assembly bricks BRB are assemblable one with the other in circular groups of six to form hexagonal building subassemblies HEXA, as shown in Figures 5A-B. In the illustrated example, the second and third connecting branches 11 OB, 110C, resp. 120B, 120C, are specifically designed to be assembled one with the other, while the first connecting branch 110A of each main assembly brick of the first type BRA is specifically designed to be assembled with the first connecting branch 120A of an adjacent main assembly brick of the second type BRB. In that regard, as shown in Figures 3C, 4B, 5B and 6B corresponding identification markings 112A, 112B, 112C, resp. 122A, 122B, 122C are preferably provided on the underside of each connecting branch 110A, 110B, 110C, resp. 120A, 120B, 120C, to ensure correct assembly of the main assembly bricks BRA, BRB. In the illustrated example, a shape and position of the relevant identification markings 112A-112C and 122A-122C is chosen such that it uniquely identifies the correct assembly combinations, namely, 110B / 110C, 120B / 120C and 110A / 120A.

[0096] By way of preference, each main assembly brick BRA, BRB is hollow and defines a ventilation spacing VS allowing circulation of air through each main assembly brick BRA, BRB and thus within walls of the dome-like structure DM. More specifically, in accordance with the preferred embodiment illustrated in the Figures, each main assembly brick BRA, BRB comprises an interior panel 1 10a, resp. 120a, and an exterior panel 110b, resp. 120b, that are spaced apart one from the other and joined together to define the ventilation spacing VS between the interior and exterior panels 110a, 110b, resp. 120a, 120b.

[0097] The relevant ventilation spacing VS formed between the interior and exterior panels 110a, 110b, resp. 120a, 120b, may be maintained by suitable spacing brackets. By way of preference, the connector elements 200 themselves are used as spacing brackets and provide structural connection between the interior and exterior panels 110a, 110b, resp. 120a, 120b.

[0098] In this latter context, a dampening structure may advantageously be provided to dampen sound and / or vibration between each connector element 200 and the interior panel 110a, resp. 120a, and / or between each connector element 200 and the exterior panel 110b, resp. 120b. In the illustrated example, multiple resilient members, such as rubber washers 225 are interposed between the connector element 200 and each of the interior and exterior panels 110a, 110b, resp. 120a, 120b, as partly depicted in Figure 7. It is furthermore worth noting that, in the illustrated example, each connector element 200 is advantageously secured to the associated exterior panel 110a, resp. 120a, such that the exterior side of the exterior panel 110a, resp. 120a, is devoid of any visible mounting hole to the connector elements 200, which improves ingress protection. To this end, inserts (not shown) are preferably provided in an interior side of the exterior panel 110b, resp. 120b, for cooperation with corresponding screws 220 that are partly visible in Figure 7. Attachment of each connector element 200 to the interior panel 110a, resp. 120a, can be achieved from the interior side of the interior panel 110a, resp. 120a, by means of corresponding screws 210 (see Figures 3C and 5B) that cooperate with a corresponding pair of threaded inserts 215 provided on the interior side of each connector element 200, as shown in Figure 7.

[0099] In order to ensure adequate sealing of the dome-like structure DM and provide increased level of ingress protection, the exterior panel 110b, resp. 120b is preferably provided with a peripheral sealing gasket 115, resp. 125. This sealing gasket 115, resp. 125, may advantageously be made of neoprene, but other sealing materials could potentially be contemplated.

[0100] By way of preference, an interior face of the interior panel 110a, resp. 120a, and an exterior face of the exterior panel 110b, resp. 120b, are substantially flat faces. In other embodiments, the relevant external faces may however be curved or angled if desired. In the illustrated example, as shown by Figure 3D (it being noted that the same applies to the main assembly bricks BRB), an outline of each of the main assembly bricks BRA, BRB is inscribed within an imaginary pyramidal frustum PF, namely, a section of a triangular prismatoid exhibiting two parallel triangular faces and three trapezoidal sides faces. More specifically, in the illustrated example, the interior face of the interior panel 110a, resp. 120a, and the exterior face of the exterior panel 110b, resp. 120b, coincide with the two parallel triangular faces of the imaginary pyramidal frustum PF, while each of the three connecting interfaces defined by the distal end of the connecting branches 110A-110C, resp. 120A-120C, where the relevant connector element 200 is positioned, coincides with a corresponding one of the three trapezoidal sides faces of the imaginary pyramidal frustum PF. Figures 8A-B show the assembly of two adjacent main assembly bricks BRA and / or BRB, it being understood that the same principle is applied irrespective of the relevant assembly combination, namely, the combination of connecting branches 110B / 110C, 120B / 120C or 110A / 120A. By way of preference, the connector elements 200 are configured as identical, mutually engageable connector elements 200 (see also Figures 9A-D) that can mate in pairs to form a corresponding connector assembly 250. Even more preferably, the connector elements 200 are configured such that the resulting connector assembly 250 exhibits a transversal hole 250A, as shown in Figures 8A, 8B and 9B. Such transversal hole 250A is dimensioned and configured to receive a locking key 260 (see Figures 9A-D) that is insertable through the transversal hole 250A and is turnable between an unlocking position, as shown in Figure 9C, and a locking position, as shown in Figure 9D. In the unlocking position, the locking key 260 is insertable through or retractable from the transversal hole 250A, thus allowing separation of the two connector elements 200. In the locking position, the locking key 260 is turned by an angle of 90° compared to the unlocking position, preventing retraction of the locking key 260 from the transversal hole 250A, thus preventing separation of the two connector elements 200. In this way, a quick and reliable assembly of two adjacent assembly bricks can be achieved, preventing accidental release of the two adjacent assembly bricks. Furthermore, assembly and disassembly of the assembly bricks does not require any particular tool.

[0101] Referring again to Figures 3A-D to 6A-B and 8A-B, it is worth noting that each of the main assembly bricks BRA, BRB is provided with a substantially flat support section 110c, resp. 120c, bordering each cutout 110-1 , 110-2, 110-3, resp. 120-1 , 120-2, 120-3, which support section 110c, resp. 120c, is configured such that each of the pentagonal and hexagonal building subassemblies PENTA, HEXA exhibits a corresponding substantially flat mounting surface. In the illustrated example, the support section 110c, resp. 120c, is provided on an exterior side of the interior panel 110a, resp. 110b, to form, upon joining of multiple main assembly bricks BRA, BRB, a correspondingly flat peripheral mounting surface. As explained hereinafter, this peripheral mounting surface is exploited for the purpose of reliably mounting a corresponding releasable panel unit. One will appreciate and understand that each peripheral mounting surface is in effect formed about each of the relevant openings OPA, OPB, OPC mentioned previously.

[0102] In the illustrated embodiment, the relevant openings OPA, OPB, OPC are preferably circular openings. In that regard, based on the aforementioned considerations, one will appreciate that flat support section 110c bordering cutout 110-2 (which participates to the formation of the first openings OPA) exhibits a radius of curvature R1 , as measured up to the inner border of flat support section 110c (see Figures 4A and 4C), and that the angle of the relevant circular arc segment delineating cutout 110-2 is equal to substantially 72°. Similarly, one will appreciate that flat support section 120c bordering cutout 120-2 (which participates to the formation of the second openings OPB) exhibits a radius of curvature R2, as measured up to the inner border of flat support section 120c (see Figure 6A), and that the angle of the relevant circular arc segment delineating cutout 120-2 is equal to substantially 60°. With respect to the flat support sections 110c bordering cutouts 110-1 , 110-3 and the flat support sections 120c bordering cutouts 120-1 , 120-3 (which participate to the formation of the third openings OPc), each such support section 110c, 120c exhibits a radius of curvature R3, as measured up to the inner border of flat support section 110c, resp. 120c (see Figures 4A and 6A), and the angle of the relevant circular arc segments delineating cutouts 110-1 , 110-3, 120-1 , and 120-3 is equal to substantially 60°. By way of preference, radius R2 and radius R3 are selected to be substantially the same, thereby ensuring that the same size of releasable panel units can be mounted in both the second and third openings OPB, OPC. In other embodiments, radius R2 and radius R3 may however differ.

[0103] Figure 10A is a perspective view of the hexagonal building subassembly HEXA of Figures 6A-B equipped with a releasable panel unit WPB inserted through and mounted within the central (second) opening OPB formed in the hexagonal building subassembly HEXA. Figure 10B is an exploded perspective view showing the hexagonal building subassembly HEXA of Figure 10A with the releasable panel unit WPB removed from the hexagonal building subassembly HEXA. It will be appreciated that the releasable panel unit WPB is dimensioned and configured to be received within the corresponding opening OPB and is preferably insertable into the opening OPB from the interior side, namely, from within the dome-like structure DM. Furthermore, the releasable panel unit WPB is preferably mounted and secured within the opening OPB thanks to the aforementioned flat peripheral mounting surface formed by the relevant support sections 120c bordering the opening OPB.

[0104] While Figures 10A-B show the hexagonal building subassembly HEXA, it will be appreciated that the same applies to the pentagonal building subassembly PENTA, which likewise permits mounting of an associated releasable panel unit WPA (see Figures 1A-B) within the corresponding (first) opening OPA. The same is likewise true with respect to the mounting of the releasable panel unit WPB within each of the third openings OPc formed at the intersections between the pentagonal and hexagonal building subassemblies PENTA, HEXA.

[0105] Figure 11A is illustrative of a preferred configuration of each of the releasable panel units WPA, WPB, which releasable panel units WPA, WPB basically share the same overall configuration and mainly different in their respective sizes.

[0106] In the illustrated example, each releasable panel unit WPA, WPB exhibits a generally cylindrical peripheral mounting structure 300, the size of which is dimensioned to correspond to the relevant size of the corresponding opening OPA, OPB, OPC within which it is to be mounted. By way of preference, each releasable panel unit WPA, WPB comprises a bottom protective sheet 320a and a top protective sheet 320b (see cross-section of Figure 11 B) that are spaced apart one from the other and joined by a peripheral supporting frame 310 to define an inner spacing 350 therebetween. The bottom and top protective sheets 320a, 320b may especially be transparent or translucent sheets of a suitable material, such as silicate glass or polycarbonate. Advantageously, the peripheral supporting frame 310 is provided with apertures 310A that are designed to allow air circulating through surrounding main assembly bricks BRA, BRB to circulate further through the inner spacing 350. Also visible in Figures 11 A and 11 B is a peripheral sealing gasket 325 that is provided in a peripheral portion of the releasable panel unit WPA, WPB for cooperation with the surrounding assembly bricks to increase ingress protection. In the illustrated example, the peripheral sealing gasket 325 is positioned to be brought into contact with the surrounding section of the interior panel 110a, resp. 120a, of the main assembly bricks BRA, BRB (see e.g. Figure 12C).

[0107] While not shown in Figures 11A-B, an optical device may be located in the inner spacing 350 of the releasable panel unit WPA, WPB, (see e.g. Figures 10B, 12A and 12B where such an optical device is represented schematically and designated by reference sign OPT). Such optical device may for instance be a light collection device to collect and redirect incoming light, a photovoltaic device used to harvest solar energy or a smart glass device that may be configured to selectively adjust or block transmission of light.

[0108] In effect, the releasable panel units may include simple transparent or translucent windows units, optical units incorporating an optical device (such as a light collection device, a photovoltaic device or a smart glass device), as well as opaque panel units the sole purpose of which is to close the relevant opening OPA, OPB or OPc.

[0109] Irrespective of the particular nature or function of the releasable panel units WPA, WPB, such panel units are preferably provided with a suitable locking system configured to selectively (and releasably) lock the panel unit WPA, WPB into the corresponding opening OPA, OPB or OPc. In the illustrated example, the locking system includes multiple, e.g. four, locking devices 500 that are distributed about the circumference of the releasable panel unit WPA, WPB.

[0110] A preferred configuration of each locking device 500 is detailed in Figures 12A-C. In the illustrated embodiment, each locking device includes a locking handle 550 that can be moved between a locking position to lock the panel unit WPA, WPB in the associated opening OPA, OPB, OPC (see Figures 12B and 12C) and an unlocking position to unlock and release the panel unit WPA, WPB from the associated opening OPA, OPB, OPC (see Figure 12A). More specifically, each locking device 500 includes a spring-loaded locking mechanism 510 / 510A cooperating with the locking handle 550. This locking mechanism 510 / 51 OA comprises a locking member 510 that is movable radially in dependence of the position of the locking handle 550 and one or more springs 51 OA acting on the locking member 510. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 550 comprise a shaft 550A and a cam member 550B provided at a distal end of the shaft 550A, which cam member 550B is allowed to slide vertically within the locking member 510 and to rotate by 90° between the unlocking position shown in Figure 12A and the locking position shown in Figures 12B and 12C. In the unlocking position, the locking handle 550 is in a pulled-down position, liberating the locking member 510 that is urged radially inwards under the action of the springs 510A. In the locking position, the locking handle 550 is in a pushed-up position and rotated by 90° compared to the unlocking position, moving the cam member 550B in a position such that the locking member 510 is urged radially outwards, against the action of the springs 510A. In other words, in the locking position of the locking handle 550, the locking member 510 is prevented from moving radially inwards, securely locking the relevant locking device 500 onto the peripheral mounting surface formed by support sections 110c, resp. 120c bordering the relevant opening OPA, OPB, OPC, as shown in Figure 12C.

[0111] Figures 13A-D show an embodiment of a venting assembly brick, designated by reference sign BRo*, which can advantageously be used as ground assembly brick to form part of the base BA of the dome-like structure DM. This particular assembly brick BRo* is preferably used to provide for controlled circulation of air within walls of the dome-like structure as well as within an interior environment INT of the dome-like structure DM (as discussed later on with reference to Figures 15A-G). The venting assembly brick BRo* is similar in shape and overall dimensions to the ground assembly bricks BRo depicted in Figures 1A-B, but incorporates additional means to provide for the ability to selectively allow air to circulate within the walls of the dome-like structure DM and / or within the interior environment INT of the dome-like structure DM. Referring to the illustration of Figures 1 A-B, one or more of the ground assembly bricks BRo may be replaced by the venting assembly brick BRo* shown in Figures 13A-D. For instance, half of the relevant ground assembly bricks forming the base BA may be venting assembly bricks BRo* as shown in Figures 13A-D. As shown in Figures 13A-D, each venting assembly brick BRo* consists of a hollow structural element 400 that is generally constructed as a wall section with an interior side 400a and exterior side 400b defining an inner venting space VP therebetween. At both lateral ends of the hollow structure element 400, ventilation apertures 400-1 , 400-2 are formed for cooperation with adjacent ground assembly bricks. Sealing gaskets 403, 404 are appropriately positioned around the relevant ventilation apertures 400-1 , 400-2, respectively. Ventilation apertures 400-3 are also formed in an upper side of the venting assembly brick BRo* to allow air to circulate vertically away from or towards the venting assembly brick BRo* Furthermore, in order to ensure an adequate mechanical connection between the ground assembly bricks, connecting tongues 401 , 402 are provided at one lateral end of the hollow structural element 400 to mate with corresponding indentations formed at the other lateral end of an adjacent ground assembly brick to allow mechanical interlocking of the ground assembly bricks.

[0112] Each of the interior and exterior sides 400a, 400b is provided with an actuatable venting mechanism, generically designated by reference sign VM, to selectively allow or prevent circulation of air. More specifically, the interior side 400a of the venting assembly brick BRo* is provided with a first actuatable venting mechanism 405 / 405M (VM) which consists, in the illustrated example, of a movable shutter element (or shutter plate) 405 that can be opened or closed by means of an associated actuator 405M depending on whether air is allowed to or prevented from circulating between an interior environment INT of the dome-like structure DM and the inner venting space VP. The exterior side 400b of the venting assembly brick BRo* is provided with a second actuatable venting mechanism 406 / 406M (VM) which likewise consists of a movable shutter element (or shutter plate) 406 that can be opened or closed by means of an associated actuator 406M depending on whether air is allowed to or prevented from circulating between an exterior environment EXT of the dome-like structure DM and the inner venting space VP. Both venting mechanisms 405 / 405M and 406 / 406M can be operated independently depending on the desired ventilation scenario. The actuatable venting mechanisms VM can for instance be both opened as shown schematically in Figures 15A, 15C and 15D or be both closed as shown schematically in Figures 15B and 15C. One may also contemplate to leave one of the actuatable venting mechanisms closed while the other is opened depending on how one wishes air to circulate. While two separate actuators 405M, 406M are shown in Figures 13A-D, a common actuator could be contemplated in other embodiments in order to actuate both shutter elements 405, 406.

[0113] While not specifically shown in Figures 13A-D, additional actuatable venting mechanisms VM could be provided to selectively allow or prevent circulation of air through the upper ventilation apertures 400-3 or even, should this be desired, through the lateral ventilation apertures 400-1 , 400-2.

[0114] As further shown in Figures 13B and 13D, the venting assembly brick BRo* also comprises one or more (here multiple) fans VT located within the inner venting space VP to selectively force circulation of air through the first and second actuatable venting mechanisms 405 / 405M, 406 / 406M (upon being opened) as well as through the ventilation apertures 400-1 , 400-2, 400-3. In the illustrated example, a first fan device is positioned in-between the first and second actuatable venting mechanisms 405 / 405M, 406 / 406M to control forced circulation of air therethrough and a pair of fan devices is positioned adjacent the upper ventilation apertures 400-3 to likewise control forced circulation of air therethrough.

[0115] Figures 14A-B show an assembly of two intermediate assembly bricks, designated by reference signs BRi, BR2, as used to form an upper part of the base BA of the dome-like structure DM of Figures 1 A-B, namely, that part of the base BA which connects to the main assembly bricks BRA, BRB and to the ground assembly bricks BRo, BRo* Each pair of intermediate assembly bricks BR1, BR2 may in effect be preassembled as shown to form one and a same common intermediate assembly brick ready for use to assemble the upper part of the base BA of the dome-like structure DM.

[0116] In the illustrated example, each of the intermediate assembly bricks BR1, BR2 is hollow and defines a ventilation spacing VS allowing circulation of air therethrough, much like the main assembly bricks BRA, BRB. The lower part of the intermediate assembly bricks BR1, BR2 is dimensioned and configured to rest on top of the underlying ground assembly bricks BRo, BRo*, as shown in Figures 1A-B, while the upper part of the intermediate assembly bricks BR-i, BR2 is shaped to match the geometry of the main assembly bricks BRA, BRB. More specifically, as show in Figures 1A-B and 14A-B, the upper portion of intermediate assembly brick BR1 matches the relevant cutout section of the main assembly brick BRB to likewise receive part of the aforementioned releasable panel unit WPB, while the upper portion of intermediate assembly brick BR2 is designed to fill the remaining gap between adjacent intermediate assembly bricks BR1 and the corresponding main assembly brick BRB sitting thereabove.

[0117] In a manner similar to main assembly bricks BRA, BRB, intermediate assembly bricks BR1, BR2 each consist of a hollow structural element 410, resp. 420 comprising interior and exterior panels 410a, 410b, resp. 420a, 420b, that are spaced apart one from the other and joined together to define the ventilation spacing VS therebetween. Corresponding spacing brackets are provided, including two connector elements 200 that are interposed between the interior and exterior panels 410a, 410b of intermediate assembly brick BR1 for cooperation with the connector elements 200 provided on the main assembly brick BRB in a manner similar to what has already been described with reference to Figures 9A-D. A sealing gasket 415 is further provided around at least the upper peripheral section of the exterior panel 410a of the intermediate assembly brick BR1. Another sealing gasket 425 is likewise provided at least on the upper convex section of the exterior panel 420a of the intermediate assembly brick BR2.

[0118] Figures 15A to 15G are illustrative of different possible application scenarios relying on a building structure that is constructed out of the assembly kit of the present invention. For the sake of illustration, Figures 15A-G schematically show an arched cover structure in the form of a dome-like structure DM similar to the one shown in Figures 1A-B, but it should be appreciated that the relevant principles are applicable irrespective of the actual overall shape of the building structure.

[0119] Figures 15A and 15B illustrate two scenarios where the dome-like structure DM is provided with a series of actuatable venting mechanisms VMo, VM1, VM2, VM3 to allow circulation of air by convection to provide passive control of the temperature and humidity within the interior environment INT of the domelike structure DM.

[0120] More specifically, with regard to the application scenario shown in Figure 15A, if one desires to bring the temperature T2 of the interior environment INT to a target temperature of e.g. 23°C, and assuming that the temperature T1 of the exterior environment EXT is lower than the target temperature, venting mechanisms VMo provided in the base BA of the dome-like structure DM (including e.g. the venting mechanisms 405 / 405M, 406 / 406M of the relevant venting assembly bricks BRo* of Figures 13A-D) as well as venting mechanisms VM2, VM3 provided at the upper end of the dome-like structure DM may be opened to allow air to penetrate inside the interior environment INT where it can be passively heated under the action of sunlight and circulate by convection from the bottom to the top of dome-like structure DM. In this scenario, circulation of air within the walls of the dome-like structure DM, namely, within the ventilation spacing VS, is not specifically required and corresponding venting mechanisms VM1 may simply be closed.

[0121] With regard to the application scenario shown in Figure 15B, if one desires to bring the temperature T2 of the interior environment INT to a target temperature of e.g. 23°C, and assuming that the temperature T1 of the exterior environment EXT is much lower than the target temperature (e.g. during cooler periods of the year), venting mechanisms VMo VM1, VM2, VM3 may all remain closed to seal the dome-like structure DM from the exterior environment EXT and cause passive circulation of air by convection within the interior environment INT, exploiting the inherent greenhouse effect provided with the dome-like structure DM.

[0122] Evidently, the scenarios depicted in Figures 15A and 15B only contemplate passive control of the temperature and humidity within the interior environment INT of the dome-like structure DM and additional active measures would have to be implemented to maintain the inside temperature T2 within desired limits should the temperature T1 of the exterior environment EXT be too low or too high. Figures 15C and 15D illustrate two application scenarios wherein the dome-like structure DM is further equipped with a heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system as well as multiple fans VT configured to force circulation of air within the interior environment INT of the dome-like structure DM as well as within walls thereof, namely, within the ventilation spacing VS.

[0123] With regard to the application scenario shown in Figure 15C, if one desires to maintain the temperature T2 of the interior environment INT to the target temperature of e.g. 23°C, and assuming that the temperature T1 of the exterior environment EXT exceeds that target temperature (e.g. during hotter periods of the year), the upper venting mechanism VM3 may be closed while all other venting mechanisms VMo VM1, VM2 remain open to force circulation of the relatively hot air through the ventilation spacing VS, back to the HVAC system where it can be cooled down before injecting the cooled air (at e.g. 20°C) back to the interior environment INT. In that regard, a first fan VT may be integrated in the upper portion of the dome-like structure DM (such as in the upper panel unit WPA) to force the hot air to circulate through the ventilation spacing VS. Forced circulation of air may be further assisted by additional fans VT provided within the base BA of the dome-like structure DM as schematically shown in Figure 15C (such as the fans VT of the relevant venting assembly bricks BRo* of Figures 13A- D).

[0124] With regard to the application scenario shown in Figure 15D, if one desires to maintain the temperature T2 of the interior environment INT to the target temperature of e.g. 23°C, and assuming that the temperature T1 of the exterior environment EXT is too low to reach that goal (e.g. during colder periods of the year), the HVAC system may be exploited to inject hot air to the interior environment INT of the dome-like structure DM through the base BA thereof while maintaining a forced circulation of air through the ventilation spacing VS.

[0125] Figure 15E schematically shows another application scenario wherein an optical device OPT generating heat is embedded within the dome-like structure DM, for instance in one of the releasable panel units WPA or WPB. In such case, the HVAC system may be exploited to inject cool air through the ventilation spacing VS to reach the optical device OPT and provide control of the cooling of the optical device OPT. In such case, one or more of the venting mechanisms VM1 may be opened to channel the cool air to the optical device OPT, while all other venting mechanisms remained closed, with the exception of the upper venting mechanism VM3 which is opened to allow release of the relatively hotter air in the exterior environment EXT.

[0126] Figure 15F schematically shows yet another application scenario wherein an optical device OPT such as a smart glass device is embedded within the dome-like structure DM, for instance in one of the releasable panel units WPA or WPB. In such case, the relevant smart glass device may be exploited to selectively adjust or even block transmission of light into the interior environment INT of the dome-like structure DM, which may help to passively reduce temperature inside the dome-like structure DM.

[0127] Figure 15G schematically shows a further application scenario wherein an optical device OPT such as a photovoltaic device PV is embedded within the dome-like structure DM, for instance in one of the releasable panel units WPA or WPB. In such case, the relevant photovoltaic device PV may likewise be exploited to block transmission of light into the interior environment INT of the dome-like structure DM, which may help to passively reduce temperature inside the domelike structure DM. Furthermore, solar energy harvested by the photovoltaic device PV may be stored in a suitable energy storage device, such as a battery BAT. The energy storage device may in particular be used to power the aforementioned HVAC system (if provided).

[0128] Various modifications and / or improvements may be made to the abovedescribed embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0129] For instance, the main assembly bricks may embody the ventilation spacing while exhibiting a different overall shape than the three-branch configuration depicted in the Figures. In effect, any shape inscribed laterally within the three trapezoidal sides faces of the imaginary pyramidal frustum PF depicted in Figure 3D may be contemplated, bearing in mind however that this would impact the resulting shape of the pentagonal and hexagonal building subassemblies as well as provision of the relevant openings. In particular, part of the main assembly bricks may potentially adopt a configuration wherein the interior and exterior panels each exhibit a triangular face, similar to what is taught e.g. in U.S. Patent No. US 2,918,992 A, while other main assembly bricks may retain the configuration illustrated in the Figures.

[0130] Furthermore, while circular openings OPA, OPB, OPC have been described and are shown in the Figures, any other opening shape may be contemplated, including e.g. polygonal openings. The same applies to the overall shape of the relevant releasable panel units WPA, WPB.

[0131] In addition, as already mentioned, the size of openings OPc does not necessarily need to match that of openings OPB. This however remains a preferred solution in that the same panel units WPB can be used in both instances.

[0132] An illustrative example of another embodiment of the invention is depicted schematically in Figure 16A which shows a possible variant of a dome-like structure DM that is likewise built out of multiple modular assembly bricks that are configured to be engageable one with other to form the dome-like structure DM. In accordance with this variant, the modular assembly bricks include first and second series of main assembly bricks BRi, BRH that, much like the main assembly bricks BRA, BRB described previously, are assemblable one with the other in circular groups of five or six, respectively, to form pentagonal and hexagonal building subassemblies PENTA and HEXA, respectively. The main assembly bricks BRi, BRn follow basically the same design rules as already described with respect to the main assembly bricks BRA, BRB, and mainly differ in that they each exhibit a comparatively thinner outline and define non-circular openings. More specifically, upon assembly of the main assembly bricks BRi, B RH, three types of openings are formed which are each shaped and dimensioned to receive a corresponding type of releasable panel unit, namely (i) a first series of panel units WPP, exhibiting an essentially regular pentagonal shape, that are each configured to be received within the opening formed within each pentagonal building subassembly PENTA, (ii) a second series of panel units WPH, exhibiting an essentially regular hexagonal shape, that are each configured to be received within an opening formed within each hexagonal building subassembly HEXA, and (iii) a third series of panel units WPIH, exhibiting an essentially irregular hexagonal shape that are each configured to be received within an opening formed at an intersection between the pentagonal and hexagonal building subassemblies PENTA, HEXA. Possible examples of the main assembly bricks BRi, BRii and panel units WPP, WPH, WPIH are discussed hereafter with reference to Figures 17A-D to 20A-E.

[0133] The invention is in effect also applicable to other shapes of arched cover structures, including e.g. a hemicylindrical structure CM as shown schematically in Figure 16B. In such case, the hemicylindrical portion of the hemicylindrical structure CM can be built out of a same series of main assembly bricks BRCM (rather than two different types of main assembly bricks) that may in essence be designed in accordance with the same design rules as described herein, with the main difference residing in the fact that the main assembly bricks BRCM are assembled one with the other in accordance with part of a cylindrical arrangement. With regard to the variant of Figure 16B, the main assembly bricks BRCM are likewise three-branch structural elements comprising three connecting branches delineating corresponding cutouts as already described, all of the above technical considerations being applicable by analogy. In this case, upon assembly of the main assembly bricks BRCM to form the hemicylindrical structure CM, a plurality of essentially hexagonal openings is formed, which hexagonal openings may be closed by means of corresponding hexagonal panel units WPCM. At the two extreme ends of the structure CM, partial panel units corresponding to halves of the hexagonal panel units WPCM can be used to close the remaining openings. Furthermore, one or both of the two extreme ends of the hemicylindrical structure CM may be left open or closed (as shown in Figure 16B) by corresponding structural panels, including e.g. one or more door panels DR to selectively close part or all of a passageway into or out of the hemicylindrical structure CM.

[0134] Figures 17A-D show a possible embodiment of main assembly brick BRi usable in the construction of the dome-like structure DM of Figure 16A, it being understood that main assembly brick BRn would be similarly structured except for the particular geometry required to allow the formation of hexagonal subassemblies HEXA, instead of pentagonal subassemblies PENTA. Much like the main assembly brick BRA of Figures 3A-D and 4A-C, main assembly brick BRi, consists of a three-branch structural element 110i comprising three connecting branches 110A, 11 OB, 110C delineating three corresponding cutouts 110-1 , 110-2, 110-3. Furthermore, a distal end of each connecting branch 110A, 11 OB 110C similarly forms a corresponding connecting interface for connection to adjacent assembly bricks, be it another main assembly brick BRi, a main assembly brick BRn, or any other assembly brick used in the construction of the relevant structure, including e.g. base assembly bricks used to form a base BA of the dome-like structure DM or frame assembly bricks used to define and provide a passageway through the dome-like structure DM which is selectively closeable by one or more door panels DR as shown in Figure 16A.

[0135] A notable difference of the three-branch structural element 110i depicted in Figures 17A-D resides in the fact that it only comprises an exterior panel 110b, and no interior panel. In that regard, each connector element 200 is thus solely secured to an interior face of the exterior panel 110b as shown, it being however understood that the connector elements 200 preferably follow the same design rules as previously described with reference to Figures 9A-D, i.e. are configured as mutually engageable connector elements 200 that can mate in pairs to form a corresponding connector assembly exhibiting a transversal hole that is dimensioned and configured to receive a turnable locking key.

[0136] With the omission of the interior panel, one will appreciate and understand that, in such case, the main assembly bricks BRi, resp. BRn, are not anymore hollow. A ventilation spacing VS within the walls of the structure may nevertheless be defined thanks to an appropriate configuration of the associated panel units WPP, WPH, WPIH as shown e.g. in Figure 19 and discussed hereafter.

[0137] Figures 18A-C show a possible embodiment of releasable panel units WPIH usable in the construction of the dome-like structure DM of Figure 16A, it being understood that releasable panel units WPP, WPH would be similarly structured except for the particular geometry required to fit into the relevant openings formed by and between the pentagonal and hexagonal subassemblies PENTA, HEXA. In the illustrated example, each releasable panel unit WPP, WPH, WPIH exhibits a non-cylindrical peripheral mounting structure 300*, including a peripheral supporting frame 310* structured to allow the passage of air in the inner spacing 350 between bottom and top protective sheets 320a, 320b that are joined by the peripheral supporting frame 310*.

[0138] As shown in Figures 18A-C, a peripheral sealing gasket 325* is preferably provided along the periphery of each panel unit WPP, WPH, WPIH to provide adequate sealing. More specifically, each panel unit WPP, WPH, WPIH is advantageously configured such as to allow mutual joining of adjacent panel units WPP, WPH, WPIH along the the peripheral sealing gasket 325*, as shown schematically in Figure 19. In the illustrated example, such mutual joining is adequately performed at a lower end of the panel units WPP, WPH, WPIH in order to define a corresponding ventilation spacing VS. In that regard, an additional sealing gasket 115* is preferably further provided on an interior face of the exterior panel 110b of the main assembly brick BRi (or BR„), as shown in Figures 17B-D, to cooperate with a corresponding upper portion of the peripheral mounting structure 300*, as shown in Figure 19, upon assembly of the panel units WPP, WPH, WPIH.

[0139] Figures 20A-E show yet another possible embodiment of main assembly brick BRi usable in the construction of the dome-like structure DM of Figure 16A, it being again understood that main assembly brick BRn would be similarly structured except for the particular geometry thereof. Main assembly brick BRi likewise consists of a three-branch structural element 110i* comprising three connecting branches 110A, 110B, 110C delineating three corresponding cutouts 110-1 , 110-2, 110-3, a distal end of each connecting branch 110A, 110B 110C forming a corresponding connecting interface for connection to adjacent assembly bricks.

[0140] A notable difference of the three-branch structural element 110i* depicted in Figures 20A-E resides in the fact that it comprises interior and exterior panels 110a, 110b that are spaced apart one from the other, much like the main assembly bricks BRA, BRB of Figures 3A-D to 6A-B, but is not hollow. Rather, the interior and exterior panels 110a, 110b enclose a spacer structure 280 that is interposed between the two panels 110a, 110b. The spacer structure 280 is preferably a honeycomb structure, as shown in Figures 20C and 20D, that is configured to define a plurality of air pockets between the interior and exterior panels 110a, 110b, which may be helpful for insulation purposes.

[0141] Connector elements 200 visible in Figures 20A-E once again preferably follow the same design rules as previously described with reference to Figures 9A-D, and are configured as mutually engageable connector elements 200 that can mate in pairs to form a corresponding connector assembly exhibiting a transversal hole that is dimensioned and configured to receive a turnable locking key.

[0142] As already mentioned, while the relevant assembly bricks shown in the illustrations are shaped to form faceted elements with substantially flat exterior and interior faces, it is to be appreciated that any one of the interior face of the interior panel and / or the exterior face of the exterior panel may alternatively be curved or angled.

[0143] Moreover, it could potentially be contemplated to merge the pentagonal and hexagonal building assemblies depicted e.g. in Figures 4A-C and 6A-B, or part thereof, into corresponding multi-branch main assembly bricks. In that regard, the main assembly bricks of the invention are not necessarily limited solely to three-branch structural elements. In effect, any adequate combination of multi-branch main assembly bricks could be contemplated as long as the relevant assortment of main assembly bricks is sufficient to construct the desired building structure.

[0144] Lastly, it should be appreciated that the relevant building structures that can be constructed based on the assembly kit of the invention are not solely restricted to hemispherical, dome-like structures. The building structures may potentially be more complex and incorporate part or all of a dome-like structure as a portion of a more elaborate and intricate structure. In such case, measures will be taken to ensure that circulation of air within the ventilation spacing formed by the main assembly bricks of the dome-like structure can still be ensured.

[0145] LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS AND SIGNS USED THEREIN

[0146] DM arched cover structure I dome-like structure built out of modular assembly bricks CM arched cover structure I hemicylindrical structure built out of modular assembly bricks

[0147] BA base of dome-like structure DM

[0148] PW passageway through dome-like structure DM

[0149] DR door panels for selective closure of passageway PW

[0150] INT interior environment of dome-like structure DM

[0151] EXT exterior environment of dome-like structure DM

[0152] BRA, BRB main assembly bricks

[0153] BRo ground assembly bricks (base assembly bricks)

[0154] BRo* venting assembly bricks (ground assembly bricks)

[0155] BR-i, BR2 intermediate assembly bricks (base assembly bricks)

[0156] BRasupplemental dome assembly bricks (frame assembly bricks)

[0157] BRb supplemental intermediate assembly bricks (frame assembly bricks)

[0158] BRCsupplemental ground assembly bricks (frame assembly bricks)

[0159] BRi, BRH main assembly bricks (variant of Figure 16A)

[0160] BRCM main assembly bricks (variant of Figure 16B)

[0161] PF imaginary pyramidal frustum

[0162] PENTA pentagonal building subassembly formed of circular group of five main assembly brick BRA, resp. BRi

[0163] HEXA hexagonal building subassembly formed of circular group of six main assembly brick BRB, resp. BRn

[0164] OPA openings formed within dome-like structure DM as a result of cutouts 110-2 (opening formed at center of each pentagonal building subassembly PENTA)

[0165] OPB openings formed within dome-like structure DM as a result of cutouts 120-2 (opening formed at center of each hexagonal building subassembly HEXA)

[0166] OPc openings formed within dome-like structure DM as a result of cutouts 110-1 , 110-3, 120-1 , 120-3 (opening formed at intersection between pentagonal and hexagonal building subassemblies PENTA, HEXA) R1 nominal radius of opening OPA I radius of curvature of inner border of flat support section 110c bordering cutout 110-2

[0167] R2 nominal radius of opening OPB I radius of curvature of inner border of flat support section 120c bordering cutout 120-2

[0168] R3 nominal radius of opening OPc I radius of curvature of inner border of flat support section 110c, resp. 120c, bordering cutouts 110-1 , 110-3, 120-1 , 120-3

[0169] WPA releasable panel units insertable into openings OPA

[0170] WPB releasable panel units insertable into openings OPB, OPC

[0171] WPP releasable panel units insertable into regular pentagonal openings of dome-like structure DM (variant of Figure 16A)

[0172] WPH releasable panel units insertable into regular hexagonal openings of dome-like structure DM (variant of Figure 16A)

[0173] WPIH releasable panel units insertable into irregular hexagonal openings of dome-like structure DM (variant of Figure 16A)

[0174] WPCM releasable panel units insertable into openings of hemicylindrical structure CM (variant of Figure 16B)

[0175] OPT optical device (e.g. light collection device, photovoltaic device PV or smart glass device)

[0176] PV photovoltaic device

[0177] BAT battery (energy storage device)

[0178] HVAC heating, ventilation and air conditioning system

[0179] VS ventilation spacing formed between interior and exterior panels

[0180] 110a, 110b, resp. 120a, 120b / ventilation spacing formed between interior and exterior panels 410a, 410b, resp. 420a, 420b

[0181] VP inner venting space formed within venting assembly bricks BRo*

[0182] VM actuatable venting mechanisms

[0183] VT fans

[0184] 110 three-branch structural element forming main assembly brick BRA 110i three-branch structural element forming main assembly brick BRi (variant of Figures 17A-D and 19) 110i* three-branch structural element forming main assembly brick BRi (variant of Figures 20A-E)

[0185] 110A-C first to third connecting branches of structural element 110, 110i resp. 110i*

[0186] 110-1 cutout delineated by first and second connecting branches 110A, 110B

[0187] 110-2 cutout delineated by second and third connecting branches 11 OB, 110C

[0188] 110-3 cutout delineated by third and first connecting branches 110C, 110A

[0189] 110a interior panel of main assembly brick BRA

[0190] 110b exterior panel of main assembly brick BRA, resp. BRi

[0191] 110c flat support section forming part of flat peripheral mounting surface for mounting of releasable panel unit WPA, resp. WPB

[0192] 112A identification marking provided on first connecting branch 110A

[0193] 112B identification marking provided on second connecting branch 110B

[0194] 112C identification marking provided on third connecting branch 110C

[0195] 115 peripheral sealing gasket

[0196] 115* sealing gasket provided on interior side of exterior panel 110b of structural element 110i

[0197] 120 three-branch structural element forming main assembly brick BRB

[0198] 120A-C first to third connecting branches of structural element 120

[0199] 120-1 cutout delineated by first and second connecting branches 120A, 120B

[0200] 120-2 cutout delineated by second and third connecting branches 120B, 120C

[0201] 120-3 cutout delineated by third and first connecting branches 120C, 120A

[0202] 120a interior panel of main assembly brick BRB

[0203] 120b exterior panel of main assembly brick BRB

[0204] 120c flat support section forming part of flat peripheral mounting surface for mounting of releasable panel unit WPA, resp. WPB

[0205] 122A identification marking provided on first connecting branch 120A

[0206] 122B identification marking provided on second connecting branch 120B 122C identification marking provided on third connecting branch 120C

[0207] 125 peripheral sealing gasket

[0208] 200 connector elements

[0209] 210 screws for mounting of connector element 200 to interior panel 110a, resp. 120a

[0210] 215 inserts provided in interior side of connector element 200 for cooperation with screws 210

[0211] 220 screws for mounting of connector element 200 to exterior panel 110b, resp. 120b

[0212] 225 dampening structure (e.g. rubber washers)

[0213] 250 connector assembly formed of mutual engagement of pairs of connector elements 200

[0214] 250A transversal hole formed through connector assembly 250

[0215] 260 turnable locking key

[0216] 280 honeycomb spacer structure (variant of Figures 20A-E)

[0217] 300 peripheral mounting structure of releasable panel unit WPA, resp. WPB

[0218] 300* peripheral mounting structure of releasable panel unit WPP, WPH, resp. WPIH

[0219] 310 peripheral supporting frame

[0220] 310* peripheral supporting frame

[0221] 310A apertures formed provided in peripheral supporting frame 310, resp. 310*

[0222] 320a bottom protective sheet (e.g. transparent or translucent sheet)

[0223] 320b top protective sheet (e.g. transparent or translucent sheet)

[0224] 325 peripheral sealing gasket

[0225] 325* peripheral sealing gasket

[0226] 350 inner spacing between bottom and top protective sheets 320a, 320b

[0227] 400 hollow structural element forming venting assembly brick BRo*

[0228] 400a interior side of venting assembly brick BRo*

[0229] 400b exterior side of venting assembly brick BRo*

[0230] 400-1 ventilation apertures (lateral side of venting assembly brick BRo*) 400-2 ventilation apertures (lateral side of venting assembly brick BRo*)

[0231] 400-3 ventilation apertures (upper side of venting assembly brick BRo*)

[0232] 401 , 402 connecting tongues for connection to an adjacent ground assembly brick

[0233] 403, 404 lateral sealing gaskets surrounding ventilation apertures 400-1 , 400-2

[0234] 405 movable shutter element (part of actuatable venting mechanism VM on interior side 400a)

[0235] 405M actuator (part of actuatable venting mechanism VM on interior side 400a)

[0236] 406 movable shutter element (part of actuatable venting mechanism VM on exterior side 400b)

[0237] 406M actuator (part of actuatable venting mechanism VM on exterior side 400b)

[0238] 410 hollow structural element forming intermediate assembly brick BRi 410a interior panel of intermediate assembly brick BRi

[0239] 410b exterior panel of intermediate assembly brick BRi

[0240] 451 sealing gasket

[0241] 420 hollow structural element forming intermediate assembly brick BR2 420a interior panel of intermediate assembly brick BR2

[0242] 420b exterior panel of intermediate assembly brick BR2

[0243] 425 sealing gasket

[0244] 500 locking devices

[0245] 510 locking member (part of spring-loaded locking mechanism)

[0246] 510A springs (part of spring-loaded locking mechanism)

[0247] 550 locking handle

[0248] 550A shaft of locking handle 550

[0249] 550B cam member provided at distal end of shaft 550A

[0250] P pentagon forming truncated icosahedron

[0251] H hexagon forming truncated icosahedron

[0252] S shell outline

Claims

CLAIMS1 . An assembly kit for construction of an arched cover structure (DM; CM), in particular a dome-like or hemicylindrical structure (DM; CM), comprising a plurality of modular assembly bricks (BRA, BRB, BRO, BRO*, BRI, BR2, BRa, BRb, BRC; BRi, BRii) configured to be engageable one with the other to form the arched cover structure (DM; CM), wherein the modular assembly bricks (BRA, BRB, BRO, BRo*, BRi, BR2, BRa, BRb, BRC; BRi, BRn) include a plurality of main assembly bricks (BRA, BRB; BRi, BRn; BRCM) that are assemblable one with the other in groups, characterized in that each main assembly brick (BRA, BRB; BRi, BRn; BRCM) consists of a multi-branch structural element (110, 120; 110i; 110i*) comprising multiple connecting branches (110A, 11 OB, 110C, 120A, 120B, 120C) extending in distinct directions away from a center of the multi-branch structural element (110, 120; 110i; 110i*) and delineating a corresponding number of cutouts (110-1 , 110-2, 110-3, 120-1 , 120-2, 120-3), and in that a distal end of each connecting branch (110A, 110B, 110C, 120A, 120B, 120C) forms a corresponding connecting interface for connection to adjacent assembly bricks (BRA, BRB, BRI, BR2, BRa, BRb; BRi, BRn; BRCM), each connecting interface including a connector element (200) configured to cooperate with a corresponding connector element (200) provided on the adjacent assembly brick (BRA, BRB, BRI, BR2, BRa, BRb; BRi, BRii; BRCM).

2. The assembly kit according to claim 1 , wherein the modular assembly bricks (BRA, BRB, BRO, BRO*, BRI, BR2, BRa, BRb, BRC; BRi, BRn; BRCM) are configured such as to provide structural integrity to the arched cover structure (DM; CM) upon being assembled one with the other without this requiring the provision of any dedicated frame to support the arched cover structure (DM; CM).

3. The assembly kit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the main assembly bricks (BRA, BRB; BRi, BRn; BRCM) consists of a three-branch structural element (110, 120; 110i; 110i*) comprising three connecting branches(110A, 11 OB, 11 OC, 120A, 120B, 120C) delineating three corresponding cutouts (110-1 , 110-2, 110-3, 120-1 , 120-2, 120-3).

4. The assembly kit according to claim 2 for construction of an arched cover structure in the form of a dome-like structure (DM), wherein the plurality of main assembly bricks (BRA, BRB; BRi, BRn) includes a first series of main assembly bricks (BRA; BRi) that are assemblable one with the other in circular groups of five to form pentagonal building subassemblies (PENTA) and a second series of main assembly bricks (BRB; BRn) that are assemblable one with the other in circular groups of six to form hexagonal building subassemblies (HEXA), and wherein the pentagonal and hexagonal building subassemblies (PENTA, HEXA) are assemblable with one another in accordance with part of a truncated icosahedron arrangement.

5. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a plurality of releasable panel units (WPA, WPB; WPP, WPH, WPIH; WPCM) that are dimensioned and configured to be received within corresponding openings (OPA, OPB, OPC) formed by and upon assembly of the main assembly bricks (BRA, BRB; BRi, BRn; BRCM) as a result of the cutouts (110-1 , 110-2, 110- 3, 120-1 , 120-2, 120-3).

6. The assembly kit according to claim 4, further comprising a plurality of releasable panel units (WPA, WPB) that are dimensioned and configured to be received within corresponding openings (OPA, OPB, OPC) formed by and upon assembly of the main assembly bricks (BRA, BRB), wherein the plurality of releasable panel units (WPA, WPB) includes a first series of panel units (WPA) that are each configured to be received within an opening (OPA) formed within each pentagonal building subassembly (PENTA) and a second series of panel units (WPB) that are each configured to be received within an opening (OPB) formed within each hexagonal building subassembly (HEXA) as well as within an opening (OPc) formed at an intersection between the pentagonal and hexagonal building subassemblies (PENTA, HEXA).

7. The assembly kit according to claim 4, further comprising a plurality of releasable panel units (WPP, WPH, WPIH) that are dimensioned and configured to be received within corresponding openings formed by and upon assembly of the main assembly bricks (BRi, BRn), wherein the plurality of releasable panel units (WPP, WPH, WPIH) includes a first series of panel units (WPP), exhibiting an essentially regular pentagonal shape, that are each configured to be received within an opening formed within each pentagonal building subassembly (PENTA), a second series of panel units (WPH), exhibiting an essentially regular hexagonal shape, that are each configured to be received within an opening formed within each hexagonal building subassembly (HEXA), and a third series of panel units (WPIH) , exhibiting an essentially irregular hexagonal shape, that are each configured to be received within an opening formed at an intersection between the pentagonal and hexagonal building subassemblies (PENTA, HEXA).

8. The assembly kit according to claim 6 or 7, wherein each of the main assembly bricks (BRA, BRB) is provided with a substantially flat support section (110c, 120c) bordering each cutout (110-1 , 110-2, 110-3, 120-1 , 120-2, 120-3), which substantially flat support section (110c, 120c) is configured such that each of the pentagonal and hexagonal building subassemblies (PENTA, HEXA) exhibits a corresponding substantially flat peripheral mounting surface for mounting of a corresponding one of the releasable panel units (WPA, WPB; WPP, WPH, WPIH).

9. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein each releasable panel unit (WPA, WPB; WPP, WPH, WPIH) is configured to be insertable into a corresponding one of the openings (OPA, OPB, OPC) from within the arched cover structure (DM; CM).

10. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein each releasable panel unit (WPA, WPB; WPP, WPH, WPIH) is provided with alocking system to selectively lock the releasable panel unit (WPA, WPB; WPP, WPH, WPIH) into the corresponding opening (OPA, OPB, OPC).11 . The assembly kit according to claim 10, wherein the locking system includes multiple locking devices (500) distributed about a circumference of the releasable panel unit (WPA, WPB; WPP, WPH, WPIH).

12. The assembly kit according to claim 11 , wherein each locking device (500) includes a locking handle (550) that can be moved between a locking position and an unlocking position, and vice versa.

13. The assembly kit according to claim 12, wherein each locking device (500) includes a spring-loaded locking mechanism (510 / 510A) cooperating with the locking handle (550), which spring-loaded locking mechanism (510 / 510A) comprises a locking member (510) that is movable radially depending on the position of the locking handle (550) and one or more springs (510A) acting on the locking member (510), wherein, in the unlocking position of the locking handle (550), the locking member (510) is urged radially inwards under the action of the one or more springs (510A) to unlock the spring-loaded locking mechanism (510 / 510A), and wherein, in the locking position of the locking handle (550), the locking member (510) is forced radially outwards against the action of the one or more springs (510A) to lock the spring-loaded locking mechanism (510 / 510A).

14. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 5 to 13, wherein each releasable panel unit (WPA, WPB) exhibits a generally cylindrical peripheral mounting structure (300), and wherein the cutouts (110-1 , 110-2, 110-3, 120-1 , 120-2, 120-3) are delineated by circular arc segments.

15. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 5 to 13, wherein each releasable panel unit (WPP, WPH, WPIH) exhibits a non-cylindrical peripheral mounting structure (300*).

16. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 5 to 15, wherein the plurality of releasable panel units (WPA, WPB; WPP, WPH, WPIH) includes translucent or transparent window units (WPA, WPB; WPP, WPH, WPIH) and / or optical units incorporating an optical device (OPT), such as a light collection device, a photovoltaic device (PV) or a smart glass device.

17. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 5 to 16, wherein each releasable panel unit (WPA, WPB; WPP, WPH, WPIH) comprises a bottom protective sheet (320a) and a top protective sheet (320b) that are spaced apart one from the other and joined by a peripheral supporting frame (310; 310*) to define an inner spacing (350) between the bottom protective sheet (320a) and the top protective sheet (320b).

18. The assembly kit according to claim 17, wherein the top protective sheet (320b) and, preferably, the bottom protective sheet (320a) are transparent or translucent.

19. The assembly kit according to claim 18, wherein each releasable panel unit (WPA, WPB; WPP, WPH, WPIH) further comprises an optical device (OPT), such as a light collection device, a photovoltaic device (PV) or a smart glass device, located in the inner spacing (350).

20. The assembly kit according to claim 16 or 19, wherein the optical device (OPT) is configured to selectively adjust or block transmission of light.

21. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 5 to 20, wherein each releasable panel unit (WPA, WPB; WPP, WPH, WPIH) is provided with a peripheral sealing gasket (325; 325*).

22. The assembly kit according to claim 21 , wherein each releasable panel unit (WPP, WPH, WPIH) is configured such as to allow mutual joining of adjacent panel units (WPP, WPH, WPIH) along the peripheral sealing gasket (325*).

23. The assembly kit according to claim 22, wherein each main assembly brick (BRi, BRn) is configured to define, upon assembly of the releasable panel units (WPP, WPH, WPIH), a ventilation spacing (VS) allowing circulation of air within walls of the arched cover structure (DM; CM).

24. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 1 to 21 , wherein each main assembly brick (BRA, BRB) is hollow and defines a ventilation spacing (VS) allowing circulation of air through each main assembly brick (BRA, BRB) and thus within walls of the arched cover structure (DM; CM).

25. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein each main assembly brick (BRA, BRB) is hollow and defines a ventilation spacing (VS) allowing circulation of air through each main assembly brick (BRA, BRB) and thus within walls of the arched cover structure (DM; CM), and wherein the peripheral supporting frame (310) of each releasable panel unit (WPA, WPB) is provided with apertures (310A) to allow air circulating through surrounding main assembly bricks (BRA, BRB) to circulate further through the inner spacing (350).

26. An assembly kit for construction of an arched cover structure (DM; CM), in particular a dome-like or hemicylindrical structure (DM; CM), comprising a plurality of modular assembly bricks (BRA, BRB, BRO, BRO*, BRI , BR2, BRa, BRb, BRC; BRCM) configured to be engageable one with the other to form the arched cover structure (DM; CM), wherein the modular assembly bricks (BRA, BRB, BRO, BRo*, BRi, BR2, BRa, BRb, BRC; BRCM) include a plurality of main assembly bricks (BRA, BRB; BRCM) that are assemblable one with the other in groups,characterized in that each main assembly brick (BRA, BRB; BRCM) is hollow and defines a ventilation spacing (VS) allowing circulation of air through each main assembly brick (BRA, BRB; BRCM) and thus within walls of the arched cover structure (DM; CM), and in that each main assembly brick (BRA, BRB; BRCM) is provided with connecting interfaces for connection to adjacent assembly bricks (BRA, BRB, BRI , BR2, BRa, BRb; BRCM), each of the connecting interfaces including a connector element (200) configured to cooperate with a corresponding connector element (200) provided on the adjacent assembly brick (BRA, BRB, BRI , BR2, BRa, BRb; BRCM).

27. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein each main assembly brick (BRA, BRB; BRCM) comprises an interior panel (110a, 120a) and an exterior panel (110b, 120b) that are spaced apart one from the other and joined together to define the ventilation spacing (VS) between the interior panel (110a, 120a) and the exterior panel (110b, 120b).

28. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 1 to 21 , wherein each main assembly brick (BRi, BRn) comprises an interior panel (110a) and an exterior panel (110b) that are spaced apart one from the other and enclose a spacer structure (280) interposed between the interior panel (110a) and the exterior panel (110b).

29. The assembly kit according to claim 28, wherein the spacer structure (280) is a honeycomb structure configured to define a plurality of air pockets between the interior panel (110a) and exterior panel (110b).

30. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the connector elements (200) provide structural connection between the interior panel (110a, 120a) and the exterior panel (110b, 120b).

31. The assembly kit according to claim 30, wherein each connector element (200) includes a dampening structure (225) to dampen sound and / or vibration between the connector element (200) and the interior panel (110a, 120a) and / or between the connector element (200) and the exterior panel (110b, 120b).

32. The assembly kit according to claim 31 , wherein the dampening structure includes one or more resilient members, such as rubber washers (225).

33. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 30 to 32, wherein an exterior side of the exterior panel (110b, 120b) is devoid of any visible mounting hole to the connector elements (200).

34. The assembly kit according to claim 33, wherein the connector elements (200) are secured to the exterior panel (110b, 120b) via inserts provided in an interior side of the exterior panel (110b, 120b).

35. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 27 to 34, wherein the exterior panel (110b, 120b) is provided with a peripheral sealing gasket (115, 125), which peripheral sealing gasket (115, 125) is preferably made of neoprene.

36. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 27 to 35, wherein an interior face of the interior panel (110a, 120a) and an exterior face of the exterior panel (110b, 120b) are substantially flat faces.

37. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 27 to 35, wherein any one of an interior face of the interior panel (110a, 120a) and / or an exterior face of the exterior panel (110b, 120b) is curved or angled.

38. The assembly kit according to claim 23, wherein each main assembly brick (BRj, BRn) comprises an exterior panel (110b) which defines theventilation spacing (VS) upon assembly of the releasable panel units (WPP, WPH, WPIH), and wherein the exterior panel (110b) is provided with a sealing gasket (115*) configured to cooperate with a peripheral upper portion of the releasable panel units (WPP, WPH, WPIH).

39. The assembly kit according to claim 38, wherein an exterior face of the exterior panel (110b) is a substantially flat face.

40. The assembly kit according to claim 38, wherein an exterior face of the exterior panel (110b) is curved or angled.

41. The assembly kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connector elements (200) are configured as identical, mutually engageable connector elements (200) that can mate in pairs to form a corresponding connector assembly (250).

42. The assembly kit according to claim 41 , wherein the connector elements (200) are configured such that the resulting connector assembly (250) exhibits a transversal hole (250A) configured and dimensioned to receive a locking key (260).

43. The assembly kit according to claim 42, wherein the locking key (260) is turnable between a first, unlocking position in which the locking key (260) is insertable through or retractable from the transversal hole (250A) and a second, locking position in which the locking key (260) is prevented from being retracted from the transversal hole (250A) and prevents separation of the connector elements (200) of the connector assembly (250).

44. The assembly kit according to claim 43, wherein the locking key (260) is turnable between the first, unlocking position and the second, locking position by an angle of 90°.

45. The assembly kit according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a plurality of base assembly bricks (BRo, BRo*, BR-i, BR2) that are assemblable one with the other and with at least part of the main assembly bricks (BRA, BRB; BRj, BRn; BRCM) to form a base (BA) of the arched cover structure (DM; CM).

46. The assembly kit according to claim 45, wherein the base assembly bricks (BRo, BRo*, BR1, BR2) include ground assembly bricks (BRo, BRo*) providing a ground connection for the arched cover structure (DM; CM) and intermediate assembly bricks (BR1, BR2) providing a connection between the ground assembly bricks (BRo, BRo*) and the main assembly bricks (BRA, BRB; BRj, BRn; BRCM).

47. The assembly kit according to any one of claims 23 to 27, further comprising a plurality of base assembly bricks (BRo, BRo*, BR1, BR2) that are assemblable one with the other and with at least part of the main assembly bricks (BRA, BRB; BRj, BRn; BRCM) to form a base (BA) of the arched cover structure (DM; CM), wherein the base assembly bricks (BRo, BRo*, BR1, BR2) include ground assembly bricks (BRo, BRo*) providing a ground connection for the arched cover structure (DM; CM) and intermediate assembly bricks (BR1, BR2) providing a connection between the ground assembly bricks (BRo, BRo*) and the main assembly bricks (BRA, BRB; BRj, BRn; BRCM), wherein the ground assembly bricks (BRo, BRo*) include venting assembly bricks (BRo*) each consisting of a hollow structural element (400) comprising: a first actuatable venting mechanism (405 / 405M, VM) provided on an interior side (400a) of the venting assembly brick (BRo*) to selectively allow or prevent circulation of air between an interior environment (INT) of the arched cover structure (DM; CM) and an inner venting space (VP) of the venting assembly brick (BRo*);a second actuatable venting mechanism (406 / 406M, VM) provided on an exterior side (400b) of the venting assembly brick (BRo*) to selectively allow or prevent circulation of air between an exterior environment (EXT) of the arched cover structure (DM; CM) and the inner venting space (VP) of the venting assembly brick (BRo*); and one or more ventilation apertures (400-1 , 400-2, 400-3), including one or more ventilation apertures (400-3) provided on an upper side of the venting assembly brick (BRo*) for communication with a corresponding one of the intermediate assembly bricks (BRi, BR2) upon assembly, and wherein each intermediate assembly brick (BR1, BR2) is hollow and defines a ventilation spacing (VS) allowing circulation of air through each intermediate assembly brick (BR1, BR2).

48. The assembly kit according to claim 47, wherein each intermediate assembly brick (BR1, BR2) consists of a hollow structural element (410, 420) comprising an interior panel (410a, 420a) and an exterior panel (410b, 420b) that are spaced apart one from the other and joined together to define the ventilation spacing (VS) between the interior panel (410a, 420a) and the exterior panel (410b, 420b), and wherein the one or more ventilation apertures (400-3) provided on the upper side of each venting assembly brick (BRo*) are arranged such that the inner venting space (VP) of the venting assembly brick (BRo*) is in communication with the ventilation spacing (VS) defined between the interior panel (410a, 420a) and the exterior panel (410b, 420b) of a corresponding one of the intermediate assembly bricks (BR1, BR2) upon assembly.

49. The assembly kit according to claim 47 or 48, wherein each venting assembly brick (BRo*) further comprises one or more fans (VT) located within the inner venting space (VP) of the venting assembly brick (BRo*) to selectively force circulation of air through the first and second actuatable venting mechanisms (405 / 405M, 406 / 406M, VM) and / or through the one or more ventilation apertures (400-1 , 400-2, 400-3).

50. The assembly kit according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising frame assembly bricks (BRa, BRb, BRC) configured to define and provide a passageway (PW) through the arched cover structure (DM; CM).51 . The assembly kit according to claim 50, further comprising at least one door panel (DR) to selectively close part or all of the passageway (PW).

52. The assembly kit according to any one of the preceding claims for construction of an arched cover structure in the form of a dome-like structure (DM), wherein an outline of each of the main assembly bricks (BRA, BRB; BRj, BRii) is inscribed within an imaginary pyramidal frustum (PF) with two parallel triangular faces and three trapezoidal side faces, and wherein each of the connecting interfaces coincides with a corresponding one of the three trapezoidal side faces of the imaginary pyramidal frustum (PF).

53. The assembly kit according to claim 36 for construction of an arched cover structure in the form of a dome-like structure (DM), wherein an outline of each of the main assembly bricks (BRA, BRB; BRj, BRH) is inscribed within an imaginary pyramidal frustum (PF) with two parallel triangular faces and three trapezoidal side faces, wherein each of the connecting interfaces coincides with a corresponding one of the three trapezoidal side faces of the imaginary pyramidal frustum (PF), and wherein the interior face of the interior panel (110a, 120a) and the exterior face of the exterior panel (110b, 120b) coincide with the two parallel triangular faces of the imaginary pyramidal frustum (PF).

54. A building structure including an arched cover structure (DM; CM) constructed out of the assembly kit according to any one of the preceding claims.

55. The building structure according to claim 54, wherein the building structure is provided with actuatable venting mechanisms (VMo, VM-i, VM2, VM3) to selectively allow or prevent circulation of air within walls of the building structure and / or within an interior environment (INT) of the building structure.

56. The building structure according to claim 55, wherein the arched cover structure (DM; CM) is constructed out of the assembly kit according to any one of claims 23 to 27, and 47 to 49, and wherein the actuatable venting mechanisms (VMo, VM1, VM2, VM3) are positioned to selectively allow or prevent circulation of air through the ventilation spacing (VS).

57. The building structure according to claim 55 or 56, further comprising one or more fans (VT) to selectively force circulation of air within the walls and / or within the interior environment (INT) of the building structure.

58. The building structure according to any one of claims 55 to 57, wherein the actuatable venting mechanisms (VMo, VM1, VM2, VM3) include venting mechanisms (VMo, VM1, 405 / 405M, 406 / 406M) provided within a base (BA) of the building structure and venting mechanisms (VM2, VM3) provided within an upper section of the building structure.

59. The building structure according to any one of claim 54 to 58, further comprising a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system (HVAC) coupled to the building structure.

60. The building structure according to claim 59, wherein the HVAC system (HVAC) is configured to actively control temperature and humidity within the interior environment (INT) of the building structure.

61. The building structure according to claim 59 or 60, wherein the HVAC system (HVAC) is configured to cool an optical device (OPT) provided on or embedded within the building structure.

62. The building structure according to claim 61 , wherein the optical device (OPT) is a photovoltaic device (PV).

63. The building structure according to claim 62, wherein the photovoltaic device (PV) is connected to an energy storage device, such as a battery (BAT), and wherein the energy storage device is preferably used to power the HVAC system (HVAC).

64. The building structure according to any one of claims 54 to 60, further comprising an optical device (OPT), such as a smart glass device, configured to selectively adjust or block transmission of light into an interior environment (INT) of the building structure.

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