Modular structures pre-fabricated to include cladding retention elements

Abstract

A transportable construction-module for use in constructing a structure is disclosed. The module comprises: (i) a frame defining a volumetric space having at least four vertical sides and a plurality of structural elements connected to the frame, at least one the vertical sides being a part of an external wall of the structure when completed, the external wall further comprises an external substrate, wherein the frame and / or the structural elements are load-bearing; and (ii) a plurality of cladding beams structurally affixed to the structural elements of the external wall, whereby the external substrate is positioned between the structural elements and the cladding beams.

Description

[0001] MODULAR STRUCTURES PRE-FABRICATED TO INCLUDE CLADDING RETENTION

[0002] ELEMENTS

[0003] RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0004] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.K. Patent Application No. 2310077.9 filed June 30, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0005] FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The present invention relates to the construction of modular structures, which are prefabricated to include cladding retention elements on the outer surface of the exterior walls.

[0007] In the field of modular construction, buildings are constructed from a plurality of prefabricated modular building units assembled together according to a plan of assembly for the final structure of the building. Such modular building units can include, for example, one or more internal rooms within the building. Such modular building units are pre-fabricated at a location (e.g., a factory) away from the site where the building (e.g., any suitable structure, including a temporary or permanent structure) is being constructed, transported to the building site, and assembled per the specifications of the building being constructed. Adjacent modular units are precisely aligned during construction of the building and rigidly attached together.

[0008] As self-supporting ready-made components are used, the need for formwork, shuttering and scaffolding is substantially lowered. However, in order to ensure that the structure is sufficiently watertight, it is often necessary to affix an exterior cladding, which can be both decorative and functional, over the exposed surface of the modular units that are on an outer surface of the building, after the modular units are assembled together during construction of the building.

[0009] Exterior cladding of the modular structures is one of the most complicated aspects in modular construction and is frequently the most time-consuming part of the project. In most high-rise modular projects, the cladding is done on-site and is not industrialized or manufactured off-site to size. Dry cladding involves construction of a steel structure (on-site) on the exterior surface of the module and tiles can be attached using various methods. This is extremely costly and time consuming.

[0010] PCT Application WO2022104034 teaches construction of cladding panels off-site and attachment of the panels to the modules at the construction site. Such cladding panels are likely to be cosmetically and / or structurally damaged during hoisting and / or during assembly of the building being constructed. Some modular units that are designated as being on an external surface of the building being constructed may have exterior cladding panels already affixed thereto during prefabrication of the building units. However, this pre-affixing of cladding panels is still disadvantageous in that there will inevitably be seams present between cladding panels of adjacent modular units that must be filled or otherwise hidden. In addition, transport of precladded panels is extremely complicated due to the fragility of the cladding elements themselves.

[0011] As such, a need exists for an efficient, cost-effective cladding technique for covering the exterior of a modular unit, which presents a seamless outer cover for a multi-modular building.

[0012] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] According to the present invention there is provided a method of generating an externally cladded multi-storey structure, the method comprising:

[0014] (a) stacking a plurality of transportable construction modules so as to form a multistorey structure, each of the transportable construction modules having at least four vertical sides defining an inner volumetric space, wherein at least one the vertical sides serves as a part of an external wall of the structure, each the construction modules having a plurality of cladding beams structurally affixed thereto prior to stacking; and subsequently

[0015] (b) attaching cladding elements to the cladding beams, thereby cladding the multistorey structure.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the invention, each of the construction modules comprise a frame defining the inner volumetric space and a plurality of structural elements connected to the frame, the external wall further comprises an external substrate, wherein the frame and / or the structural elements are load-bearing.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the invention, the cladding beams are positioned such that the cladding elements overlap a seam between at least two storeys of the structure.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the invention, the cladding beams are positioned so as to allow cladding with the cladding elements the external wall of the structure, which are not in alignment with any one of the plurality of construction-modules.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the invention, the cladding beams are positioned so as to allow cladding with the cladding elements over at least part of the external wall of the structure when completed, in accordance with a predesigned architectural plan. According to an embodiment of the invention, the structural elements extend from a top end to a bottom end of the load-bearing frame.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the invention, the structural elements comprise columns.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the invention, the columns comprise vertical columns.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the invention, the cladding beams are positioned horizontally when the module is upright.

[0023] According to an embodiment of the invention, the plurality of cladding beams are affixed to be substantially perpendicular to the vertical columns.

[0024] According to an embodiment of the invention, the external substrate comprises an insulating material and / or a water resistant material.

[0025] According to an embodiment of the invention, the insulating material comprises a sound-insulating material and / or a thermal-insulating material.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the invention, the external substrate is a multilayer substrate, wherein at least one layer of the substrate comprises a sound or thermal-insulating material.

[0027] According to an embodiment of the invention, the external substrate comprising one or more openings formed through a thickness of the substrate, each of the one or more openings corresponding to an opening formed in the external wall of the structure.

[0028] According to an embodiment of the invention, the construction module further comprises a frame which is firmly secured into the one or more opening.

[0029] According to an embodiment of the invention, the frame is a blind frame.

[0030] According to an embodiment of the invention, the two of the four vertical sides are parts of two external walls of a single construction module, each further comprising the external substrate.

[0031] According to an embodiment of the invention, the module further comprises a floor and / or a ceiling.

[0032] According to an embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises fabricating at least one interior wall of the module prior to the stacking.

[0033] According to an embodiment of the invention, the at least one interior wall comprises a material selected from the group consisting of plaster, cement board, wood and a ceramic.

[0034] According to an embodiment of the invention, the interior wall comprises an opening for a door. According to an embodiment of the invention, the interior wall comprises a finishing exterior.

[0035] According to an embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises inserting components in a conduit of the external wall, the components comprising electrical, insulating, plumbing or communications components.

[0036] According to an embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises inserting components in a conduit of the internal wall, the components comprising electrical, insulating, plumbing or communications components.

[0037] According to an embodiment of the invention, the construction modules comprise at least two rooms.

[0038] According to an embodiment of the invention, the construction modules further comprise a lighting fixture and / or a bathroom fixture.

[0039] According to an embodiment of the invention, the plurality of cladding beams are made from metal.

[0040] According to an embodiment of the invention, the cladding beams have a C-shaped profile.

[0041] According to an embodiment of the invention, the exterior facing part of the structural elements comprise a plurality of preformed first holes, an interior facing part of the cladding beams comprise a plurality of preformed second holes, and the external substrate comprises a plurality of corresponding third preformed holes, the first holes, the second holes and the third holes being aligned so as to allow, using a biasing mechanism, for biasing the external substrate between the cladding beams and the structural elements and for structurally connecting the cladding beams to the structural elements.

[0042] According to an embodiment of the invention, the cladding beams and the external substrate are positioned over the structural elements so as to allow, using a biasing mechanism, for biasing the external substrate between the cladding beams and the structural elements and for structurally connecting the cladding beams to the structural elements.

[0043] According to an embodiment of the invention, the exterior facing part of the cladding beams comprise a plurality of retainers for retaining the cladding elements.

[0044] According to an embodiment of the invention, the biasing mechanism comprises:

[0045] (i) a transmember having a head and a compatible nut; or

[0046] (ii) a transmember lacking a head and two compatible nuts.

[0047] According to an embodiment of the invention, the biasing mechanism comprises the following components: 0-2 rings, a blind rivet nut, a spacing element, a stopper, a securing element (M6 hex flange nut), such that when the components are connected to and / or through one another, the biasing mechanism is formed.

[0048] According to an embodiment of the invention, the plurality of structural elements comprise a C shape, T shape or H shaped profile.

[0049] According to an embodiment of the invention, the plurality of structural elements are made of metal.

[0050] According to an embodiment of the invention, the metal is steel.

[0051] According to an embodiment of the invention, the external wall further comprises an internal substrate.

[0052] According to an embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises attaching the internal substrate to an interior-facing part of the structural elements.

[0053] According to an embodiment of the invention, the cladding elements are water-resistant.

[0054] According to an embodiment of the invention, the back or side surface of the cladding elements comprise fourth holes, wherein cladding engaging elements are inserted into the fourth holes.

[0055] According to an embodiment of the invention, the back surface of the cladding elements comprise undercut holes.

[0056] According to an embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises inserting undercut anchors into the undercut holes.

[0057] According to an embodiment of the invention, the cladding elements are made from a material selected from the group consisting of brick, porcelain, ceramic, plastic, wood and cement board.

[0058] According to an embodiment of the invention, the cladding engaging elements comprise an elongated structure having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end being acceptable and retainable in the fourth holes on the back or side surface of the cladding elements and the proximal end being acceptable, and retainable in retainers comprised in the cladding beams.

[0059] According to the present invention there is provided a transportable constructionmodule for use in constructing a structure comprising:

[0060] (i) a frame defining a volumetric space having at least four vertical sides and a plurality of structural elements connected to the frame, at least one the vertical sides being a part of an external wall of the structure when completed, the external wall further comprises an external substrate, wherein the frame and / or the structural elements are load-bearing; and (ii) a plurality of cladding beams structurally affixed to the structural elements of the external wall, whereby the external substrate is positioned between the structural elements and the cladding beams.

[0061] According to further features in preferred embodiments of the invention described below, in a structure which comprises at least two of the construction-module, the cladding beams are positioned so as to allow cladding with corresponding cladding elements the external wall of the structure architecturally, not necessarily in alignment with any one of the at least two construction-modules.

[0062] According to further features in preferred embodiments of the invention described below, wherein in a structure which comprises at least two of the construction-module, the cladding beams are positioned so as to allow cladding with corresponding cladding elements an external wall of the structure which are not in alignment with any one of the at least two construction-modules.

[0063] According to further features in preferred embodiments of the invention described below, the cladding beams are positioned so as to allow cladding with corresponding cladding elements over at least part of the external wall of the structure when completed, in accordance with a predesigned architectural plan.

[0064] According to additional embodiments of the invention described below, the structural elements extend from a top end to a bottom end of the load-bearing frame.

[0065] According to additional embodiments, the construction-module is uncladded.

[0066] According to additional embodiments, the structural elements comprise columns.

[0067] According to additional embodiments, the columns comprise vertical columns.

[0068] According to additional embodiments, the cladding beams are positioned horizontally when the module is upright.

[0069] According to additional embodiments, the plurality of cladding beams are affixed to be substantially perpendicular to the vertical columns.

[0070] According to additional embodiments, the external substrate comprises an insulating material and / or a water resistant material.

[0071] According to additional embodiments, the insulating material comprises a soundinsulating material and / or a thermal-insulating material.

[0072] According to additional embodiments, the external substrate is a multilayer substrate, wherein at least one layer of the substrate comprises a sound or thermal-insulating material. According to additional embodiments, the external substrate comprising one or more openings formed through a thickness of the substrate, each of the one or more openings corresponding to an opening formed in the external wall of the structure.

[0073] According to additional embodiments, the construction-module further comprises a frame which is firmly secured into the one or more opening.

[0074] According to additional embodiments, the frame is a blind frame.

[0075] According to additional embodiments, two of the four vertical sides are parts of two external walls of a single construction module, each further comprising the external substrate.

[0076] According to additional embodiments, the construction-module further comprises a floor and / or a ceiling.

[0077] According to additional embodiments, the construction-module further comprises at least one interior wall of the module.

[0078] According to additional embodiments, the at least one interior wall comprises a material selected from the group consisting of plaster, cement board, wood and a ceramic.

[0079] According to additional embodiments, the interior wall comprises an opening for a door.

[0080] According to additional embodiments, the interior wall comprises a finishing exterior.

[0081] According to additional embodiments, the external wall comprises a conduit for at least one of electrical, insulating, plumbing or communications components.

[0082] According to additional embodiments, the interior wall comprises a conduit for at least one of electrical, insulating, plumbing or communications components.

[0083] According to additional embodiments, the construction-module comprises at least two rooms. According to additional embodiments, the construction-module further comprises a lighting fixture and / or a bathroom fixture.

[0084] According to additional embodiments, the plurality of cladding beams are made from metal (e.g. steel).

[0085] According to additional embodiments, the cladding beams have a C-shaped profile.

[0086] According to additional embodiments, an exterior facing part of the structural elements comprise a plurality of preformed first holes, an interior facing part of the cladding beams comprise a plurality of preformed second holes, and the external substrate comprises a plurality of corresponding third preformed holes, the first holes, the second holes and the third holes being aligned so as to allow, using a biasing mechanism, for biasing the external substrate between the cladding beams and the structural elements and for structurally connecting the cladding beams to the structural elements. According to additional embodiments, the cladding beams and the external substrate are positioned over the structural elements so as to allow, using a biasing mechanism, for biasing the external substrate between the cladding beams and the structural elements and for structurally connecting the cladding beams to the structural elements.

[0087] According to additional embodiments, an exterior facing part of the cladding beams comprise a plurality of retainers for retaining cladding elements.

[0088] According to additional embodiments, the biasing mechanism comprises:

[0089] (i) a transmember having a head and a compatible nut; or

[0090] (ii) a transmember lacking a head and two compatible nuts.

[0091] According to additional embodiments, the biasing mechanism comprises the following components: 0-2 rings, a blind rivet nut, a spacing element, a stopper, a securing element (M6 hex flange nut), such that when the components are connected to and / or through one another, the biasing mechanism is formed.

[0092] According to additional embodiments, the plurality of structural elements comprise a C shape, T shape or H shaped profile.

[0093] According to additional embodiments, the plurality of structural elements are made of metal.

[0094] According to additional embodiments, the metal is steel.

[0095] According to additional embodiments, the external wall further comprises an internal substrate.

[0096] According to additional embodiments, the internal substrate is attached to an interiorfacing part of the structural elements.

[0097] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a multi-storey structure, each storey of the structure comprising at least two of the construction-modules described herein, the construction-modules being at least a part of the volume of the structure.

[0098] According to additional embodiments, an exterior-facing surface of the exterior wall of the structure is cladded with cladding elements, so as to comply with a predesigned architectural plan, the cladding elements forming an aesthetic ventilated facade.

[0099] According to additional embodiments, the cladding elements are water-resistant.

[0100] According to additional embodiments, a back or side surface of the cladding elements comprise fourth holes, wherein cladding engaging elements are inserted into the fourth holes.

[0101] According to additional embodiments, a back surface of the cladding elements comprise undercut holes. According to additional embodiments, the undercut anchors are inserted into the undercut holes.

[0102] According to additional embodiments, the cladding elements are made from a material selected from the group consisting of brick, porcelain, ceramic, plastic, wood and cement board.

[0103] According to additional embodiments, the cladding engaging elements comprise an elongated structure having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end being acceptable and retainable in the fourth holes on the back or side surface of the cladding elements and the proximal end being acceptable, and retainable in retainers comprised in the cladding beams.

[0104] According to additional embodiments, the cladding engaging elements further comprise a clip.

[0105] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of fabricating a transportable construction-module for use in constructing a structure comprising:

[0106] (a) spacing a plurality of structural elements to define a volumetric space having at least four vertical sides, at least one the vertical sides being a part of an external wall of the structure when completed;

[0107] (b) positioning an external substrate over an exterior facing part of the structural elements which define the at least one the vertical sides; and

[0108] (c) affixing cladding beams to the exterior facing part of the structural elements, wherein the external substrate is positioned between the structural elements and the cladding beams.

[0109] According to additional embodiments, the method further comprises connecting an internal substrate to an interior facing part of the structural elements so as to construct each of the four vertical sides.

[0110] According to additional embodiments, the method further comprises fabricating internal walls of the construction module.

[0111] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of cladding the multi-storey structure described herein comprising:

[0112] (a) connecting cladding engaging elements to a back surface or side surface of a plurality of cladding elements; and

[0113] (b) engaging the cladding engaging elements to the cladding beams, thereby cladding the multi-storey structure described herein.

[0114] According to additional embodiments, the engaging is according to a predesigned architectural plan thereby forming a seamless ventilated fatjade. According to still another aspect of the invention there is provided an engaging set for engaging a cladding element onto a horizontal cladding beam, the system comprising:

[0115] (i) a clip- shaped element having an internal portion and an external portion, the internal and external portions being designed to engage the cladding beam; and

[0116] (ii) a cladding element engaging kit being designed for engaging the cladding element to the external portion of the clip- shaped element.

[0117] According to embodiments, the clip- shaped element comprises a spring clip.

[0118] According to embodiments, the internal portion has an opening through which the cladding element engaging kit is being placed.

[0119] According to embodiments, the cladding element engaging kit comprises a lock nut connectable to a back-side of the cladding element.

[0120] According to embodiments, the lock nut is an undercut anchor connectable into a compatible undercut hole formed on the back-side of the cladding element.

[0121] According to embodiments, the cladding element engaging kit further comprises a load dispersion element placeable between the cladding element and the external portion of the clip element.

[0122] According to embodiments, the cladding element engaging kit further comprises a cladding engaging element for flaring the undercut anchor into the undercut hole.

[0123] According to embodiments, the cladding element engaging kit further comprises a bolt for securing the cladding engaging element.

[0124] According to embodiments, the external and internal portions and the cladding engaging element are so positioned with respect to one another such that the cladding engaging element being integrated with the clip- shaped element is insertable into a dedicated vertical slit formed in the horizontal beam.

[0125] According to still another aspect of the invention, there is provided a horizontal cladding beam for connecting an end-cladding element to a structure, the horizontal cladding beam comprising an elongated U-shaped element having an elongated base and an elongated structure-side and an elongated cladding-element side extending upwardly from the elongated base, wherein the elongated base is formed with a plurality of openings thereby allowing airflow therethrough, whereas the elongated cladding-element side is formed with a plurality of slits for receiving and retaining an engaging set for engaging the end-cladding element with the horizontal cladding beam, and further whereas the elongated structure- side being connectable to the structure. According to still another aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for endcladding a structure comprising:

[0126] (a) the horizontal cladding beam as described herein; and

[0127] (b) the engaging set as described herein.

[0128] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, suitable methods and materials are described below. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0129] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

[0130] The invention is herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present invention only, and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice.

[0131] In the drawings:

[0132] FIGs. 1A-D illustrate exemplary construction modules which are pre-fabricated to include cladding beams on the outer surface of the exterior walls. The construction modules can be stacked to form a multi-storey structure.

[0133] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary structural element according to embodiments of the invention.

[0134] FIGs. 3A-B illustrate exemplary arrangements of structural elements within a loadbearing frame according to embodiments of the invention.

[0135] FIG. 4 is a side view of an exemplary outer wall of a construction module including an opening for a window or door, according to embodiments of the invention.

[0136] FIG. 5 illustrates a magnified section of the outer wall shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a top view illustrating the connection between the structural element, the cladding beam and the external substrate of the outer wall of the construction module, according to embodiments of the invention.

[0137] FIG. 7A illustrates an external substrate of the outer wall of the construction module according to embodiments of the invention.

[0138] FIGs. 7B-D illustrate steps in preparing structural elements for use in an outer wall of a construction module, according to embodiments of the invention.

[0139] FIG. 8A is a blow-out of an external wall of a construction module according to embodiments of the invention.

[0140] FIG. 8B depicts exemplary biasing elements which may be used to connect cladding beams to the structural elements of the construction modules.

[0141] FIG. 9 describe how an end-cladding element is prepared so that it can connect to cladding beams according to embodiments of the invention.

[0142] FIGs. 10A-C illustrate connection of end-cladding engaging elements to end cladding elements according to embodiments of the invention.

[0143] FIGs. 11A-B illustrate how end-cladding elements can be connected to cladding beams according to embodiments of the invention.

[0144] DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0145] The present invention relates to the construction of multi-storey, modular structures, which are pre-fabricated to include cladding beams on the outer surface of the exterior walls. The cladding beams are rigidly attached to the structural elements of the module and serve to both dictate the positioning of the cladding elements and to reinforce the wall. Cladding elements are connected to the cladding beams without the need for an additional cladding frame. Since the structural elements extend from the top to the bottom of the wall and also horizontally from one side to the other, there is a high degree of flexibility of the positioning and numbering of the cladding beams, which ultimately provides a high degree of versatility as to the positioning of the cladding elements themselves. This is advantageous as it allows for cladding of multi-modular buildings, whereby the cladding does not necessarily have to be in alignment with any one of the individual construction-modules. The cladding elements can follow a predetermined architectural design, generating a seamless fatjade (e.g. ventilated fatjade) over the entire exterior of the multi-modular building.

[0146] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details set forth in the following description. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0147] The principles and operation of the construction-modules according to the present invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings and accompanying descriptions.

[0148] In FIG. 1A, construction module 10 comprises at least one external wall 12. The exterior facing side of the external wall 12 is pre-fabricated to include cladding beams 14. The cladding beams 14 are positioned according to a predetermined plan. In FIG. IB, construction module 20 comprises at least one external wall 22. The exterior facing side of the external wall 22 is pre-fabricated to include cladding beams 14. The cladding beams are positioned according to a predetermined plan, which can be the same as in FIG. 1A or different to the predetermined plan of FIG. 1A. For example construction module 10 has four rows of cladding beams, whereas construction module 20 has 3 rows of cladding beams. In one embodiment, the construction modules (in which the cladding beams are already attached) are brought to the site of where the structure is to be constructed (i.e. building site) and subsequently stacked and arranged in specific configurations per the schematics (e.g. design blueprints) for the structure 24 being constructed (FIG. 1C). The structure 24 is then cladded, the positioning of the cladding elements 16 (also referred to herein as end-cladding elements) is dictated by the positioning of the cladding beams 14. Positioning of the cladding beams 14 can follow a predesigned architectural plan which results in an aesthetically pleasing finish over the exterior surface of the structure or over a portion of the exterior of the structure. Cladding elements 16 may overlap the seam 18 between the two cladding elements (FIG. ID). In this arrangement, the cladding beams 14 are positioned so as to allow cladding of an external wall (12 and 22) of the structure with corresponding cladding elements 16, wherein at least a portion of the cladding is not in alignment with either of construction-modules 10 or 20.

[0149] According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a transportable construction-module for construction of a structure. At its most basic, the construction-module comprises at least four vertical sides defining an inner volumetric space, wherein at least one the vertical sides serves as a part of an external wall of the structure. The construction module (prior to stacking) has a plurality of cladding beams structurally affixed thereto. The cladding beams may be positioned according to a desired design of the cladding elements which will ultimately be positioned and fixed onto the external wall of the structure. For example, the cladding beams may be positioned so as to allow cladding elements to overlap a seam between at least two storeys of the structure.

[0150] The construction-modules have structural capacity such that when stacked on a foundation and assembled in various configurations to yield a completed building, they can form a unified structure that meets the dead load, live load, gravity load, and lateral load requirements as prescribed by the building codes of various municipalities and other governmental jurisdictions. At the same time, the present invention encompasses modular units that are of the largest practical volumetric size to allow a building to be manufactured in an offsite factory, and then transported to the construction site. Following transportation, the construction modules, which are pre -prepared with cladding beams can be readily stacked for erection in a matter of days and cladded on site, consequently, site work is reduced to the joinder of construction modules in the field and cladding.

[0151] Each of the construction modules may comprise a frame defining the inner volumetric space and a plurality of structural elements connected to the frame. Typically, either the frame and / or the structural elements are load-bearing.

[0152] According to a particular embodiment, the construction-module comprises:

[0153] (i) a frame defining a volumetric space having at least four vertical sides and a plurality of structural elements connected to the frame, at least one the vertical sides being a part of an external wall of the structure when completed, the external wall further comprises an external substrate, wherein the frame and / or the structural elements are load-bearing; and

[0154] (ii) a plurality of cladding beams structurally affixed to the structural elements of the external wall, whereby the external substrate is positioned between the structural elements and the cladding beams.

[0155] In one embodiment, the construction-modules are used as habitable dwelling units, (either alone or combined when forming a structure).

[0156] The construction-modules described herein are transportable - i.e. not fixed to the ground, but can be loaded onto trucks / trains / boats etc. and transported to the site where the structure is constructed (e.g. building site).

[0157] According to a particular embodiment, the construction-modules are of a size and weight that meets the ISO International Standards for intermodal transport.

[0158] The construction modules are pre-prepared at the manufacturing site (e.g. factory) to include cladding beams thereupon, thereby avoiding the necessity of connecting cladding beams at the site of structure construction, which is both cumbersome and time-consuming. In some embodiments, the construction-modules described herein are uncladded or partially uncladded - so as to avoid breakage - during transport and hoisting. Cladding of the construction-modules with cladding elements typically only occurs at the site of construction of the structure, following stacking of the modules. Thus, when in the transportable state, the construction-modules are uncladded (or partially uncladded), but when fixed to the ground (and / or optionally stacked on another construction-module), the construction-modules are cladded. This is especially relevant when the cladding elements form a ventilated fatjade and / or if the cladding elements extend beyond a single construction-module to form a predetermined architectural design.

[0159] The size of the construction-modules described herein are limited in that they are transportable, e.g. by truck, e.g. from a factory / manufacturing setting where they are made, to a building / construction site, where they are connected (i.e. attached or stacked) to form a structure. The construction-modules may be of a cuboid shape. Typically the width of the construction-modules is no greater than about 3-4 meters and the length between 6-10 meters. In one embodiment, the construction modules are between 20-30 m2. Furthermore, the weight of the construction modules described herein are limited in that they have to be transported and hoisted (e.g. by crane) such that they may be stacked one upon the other to form a multi-storey structure.

[0160] It will be understood that the construction-modules may be employed in a variety of applications including housing, hotels, hostels, hospitals, care homes, and educational, social and leisure facilities, and in commercial, penal or industrial premises. Other applications include basements and cellars, car parking and storage. The accommodation provided by a module can take many forms including bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, corridors, service voids, storage, bicycle sheds, stairwells, lift shafts, launderettes, community spaces and offices.

[0161] Reference is now made to FIG. 2, which illustrates an exemplary structural element 26, which is comprised in at least one outer wall of the construction module. Structural element 26 may be of any shape e.g. circular, triangular, oblong. In one embodiment, structural element 26 is a column e.g. a vertical column. The length “1” of structural element 26 is selected according to the desired height of the construction module (e.g. structural element 26 may extend vertically from the bottom to the top of the outer wall of the construction-module). Structural element 26 is typically made from non-corrosive metal, including for example steel, such as stainless steel or light gauge steel (LGS). In another embodiment, structural elements 26 are load-bearing. Structural element 26 may be partially hollow and comprise a C, T, or H shaped profile. In one embodiment, structural element 26 comprise a C shaped profile having two parallel sides 28 and 30 and a connecting side 32. The width “w” of the connecting side is typically between 4-5 cm, depending on the height of the final structure and the number of storeys of the final structure. The length “z” and “y” of the parallel sides is typically between 2-5 cm. Length “z” and “y” may be identical or non-identical. Once the module is constructed and erect, side 28 faces the interior of the module and side 30 faces the exterior. Optionally, structural element 26 comprises a plurality of first holes 34 positioned along its length, for example on side 30 of structural element 26. The number and the positioning of holes 34 along the length “1” is selected according to a predetermined pattern, which ultimately dictates the positioning of the exterior cladding elements. Structural elements 26 are commercially available - for example from Elements Europe.

[0162] The hollow of the structural element 26 may be filled partially with a substrate - i.e. the substrate may be parallel to the external wall, but within the plane of the structural element. The substrate may be an insulating substrate, as further described herein below.

[0163] Reference is now made to FIG. 3A which shows a plurality of structural elements 26 arranged inside frame 36. Structural elements 26 are attached (e.g. by screw or by welding) to frame 36. Frame 36 has two vertical sides and two horizontal sides and defines the perimeter of the walls of the construction-module. In one embodiment, frame 36 is load-bearing. Frame 36 may be of a strength such that a plurality of construction-modules (e.g. 2-20) may be stacked thereupon - forming a multi-story structure, in the absence of any other load-bearing element in the wall. The frame may be made from a material that can carry the weight of at least two modules, three, four or more modules, wherein the modules are stacked one upon the other. In one embodiment, frame 36 is made of steel, e.g. RHS. The bars of frame 36 may be partially hollow, comprising a C or H shaped inner profile.

[0164] Reference is now made to FIG. 3B which shows how the frame 36 connected to the structural elements 26 may be further fabricated to comprise a floor and / or a ceiling. Typically, structural elements, such as structural elements 74 are connected to frame 36 to generate the skeleton of a floor and / or ceiling. The structural elements 74 are typically load-bearing.

[0165] In another embodiment, both frame 36 and structural elements 26 are load-bearing.

[0166] Thus, frame 36 may be of a strength such that a plurality of construction-modules (e.g. 2-20) may be stacked thereupon - forming a multi-story structure, in combination with load-bearing structural elements 26 of the wall. The structural elements 26 are spaced within the frame 36 and connected thereto. In one embodiment, the structural elements 26 extend vertically, from a top end of the frame to a bottom end of the frame. In another embodiment, the structural elements 26 extend horizontally from one side of frame 26 to another. In still other embodiments, some of structural elements 26 extend vertically and some of structural elements 26 extend horizontally. In still other embodiments, at least some of structural elements 26 extend diagonally inside the frame.

[0167] Reference is now made to FIGs. 4-6 which illustrate a part of a single exemplary outer wall (which is standing upright) of the construction-module according to embodiments of the invention. In order to simplify the view, frame 36 is omitted from Figures 4-6. Shown are a plurality of cladding beams 14 affixed to structural elements 26 of the external wall 12, whereby an external substrate 38 is positioned between structural elements 26 and cladding beams 14. In one embodiment, cladding beams 14 are positioned horizontally when the module is upright (e.g. in parallel with the ground). Thus, cladding beams 14 may be affixed to structural elements 26 (e.g. vertical columns) such that they are substantially perpendicular thereto.

[0168] The cladding beams 14 (also referred to as cladding rails) are made from metal (e.g. aluminum or stainless steel). In one embodiment, cladding beams 14 have a C shaped profile, comprising two parallel sides, 42 and 44 and a connecting side 46. Side 42 of the cladding beams may be manufactured with preformed holes 48 (e.g. pre-punched), which permit connection to the structural elements. Side 44 of cladding beams 14 may be manufactured with a plurality of retainers 50 which serve to retain the cladding elements thereto. Connecting side 46 of cladding beams 14 may comprise a plurality of openings 72 which allow water drainage once the outer wall is constructed and which may also serve as vent holes. The width of connecting side 46 determines the space between the cladding element 16 and the external substrate 38. When sufficiently wide (e.g. 10-15), a ventilated fatjade can be generated. Cladding beams 14 may be cut according to any desired length, for example according to a predesigned architectural plan.

[0169] Thus, according to another aspect there is provided a horizontal cladding beam (14) for connecting an end-cladding element (16) to a structure, the horizontal cladding beam comprising an elongated U-shaped (or C-shaped) element having an elongated base (46, connecting side) and an elongated structure-side (42) and an elongated cladding-element side (44) extending upwardly from said elongated base, wherein said elongated base (46) is formed with a plurality of openings thereby allowing airflow therethrough, whereas said elongated cladding-element side (44) is formed with a plurality of slits (retainers) for receiving and retaining an engaging set for engaging the end-cladding element (16) with the horizontal cladding beam (14), and further whereas said elongated structure- side (42) being connectable to the structure.

[0170] The external substrate 38 may be made from any material including for example a water resistive material, a sound-insulating material and or a thermal-insulating material. It one embodiment, the external substrate 38 is fully waterproof and sealed against water. The external substrate 38 may be a single element with no joins or gaps so as to avoid water from entering. The substrate may also be mold and moisture resistive. It will be appreciated that the external substrate may comprise a plurality of layers, whereby at least one of the layers is an insulating layer, an acoustic layer, and / or a mold / water resistive layer. The thermal insulating layer may be for example a polyethylene foam with aluminum film or an aerogel mat. The acoustic insulating layer may be fabricated from an acoustic foam, mineral wool, rock wool, or fiberglass. In one embodiment, the external substrate 38 is made from fiberglass mat gypsum sheathing (e.g. DensGlass™).

[0171] The external substrate may be prepared with preformed holes 52, as shown in FIG. 7A.

[0172] The external substrate 38 may comprise one or more openings 40 formed through a thickness thereof, each of the one or more openings 40 corresponding to an opening formed in the external wall of the structure, as shown in FIG. 4 and 7A. The quantity of openings 40 in each external substrate 38 is generally determined based on the number of openings in the exterior wall and / or surface of the construction module(s) to which the external substrate is attached during construction of the building. Non-limiting examples of such openings can include windows, doors, vents, and the like. As such, each external substrate may be specifically manufactured (e.g., during off-site pre-fabrication) such that the position and size of any openings 40 formed in the substrate 38 corresponds precisely to the position and size of any openings formed in the exterior of the construction module(s) over which the substrate 38 is to be affixed. A frame (e.g. a blind frame, a window sill etc.) may be firmly secured into the one or more opening 40. The frame may be made from any suitable material including wood, aluminium, vinyl etc.

[0173] The external substrate 38 may further comprise a conduit for at least one of electrical, insulating, plumbing or communications components.

[0174] Reference is now made to FIGs. 8 A and 8B which illustrates how an external wall of the construction-module can be constructed, according to embodiments of the invention. As illustrated, the external wall of the module is constructed by aligning first holes 34 on the exterior facing parts 30 of structural elements 26, second holes 48 on interior facing part 42 of cladding beams 14 and third holes 52 on external substrate 38. Once aligned, a trans-member 54 may be passed there through and secured on either side using stopping elements 56 and / or 58. Thus, trans-member 54 and associated stopping elements 56 and 58 serve to bias external substrate 38 between cladding beams 14 and structural elements 26 and for structurally connecting cladding beams 14 to structural elements 26.

[0175] The inventors also contemplate constructing the external wall, whereby at least one, at least two or even all three of the structural elements, cladding beams or external substrate is not fabricated with preformed holes. Rather, each component is aligned with the next (for example as illustrated in FIG. 6) and a hole is drilled there through, after alignment, to allow passage of the trans-member 54.

[0176] Trans-member 54 and associated stopping elements 56 and 58 together form a biasing mechanism. In one embodiment, the biasing mechanism comprises:

[0177] (i) a trans-member having a head (e.g. a bolt) 56 and a compatible nut 58; and / or

[0178] (ii) a trans-member lacking a head 54 and two compatible nuts 58.

[0179] Other biasing mechanisms are known in the art and the present invention contemplates use of any of these so long as they are capable of sandwiching (biasing) external substrate 38 between cladding beams 14 and structural elements 26 and rigidly connecting cladding beams 14 to structural elements 26.

[0180] FIGs. 7B and 7C illustrate how structural beams 26 can be prepared so that they are able to connect cladding beams 14 to structural elements 26 according to embodiments of the invention.

[0181] Structural elements 26 (e.g. columns with a C profile) may be prepared with precut holes 34, as described herein above. Rings 60 and ring 62 are positioned on either side of the hole 34. Rings 60 and 62 serve as reinforcement plates. Blind rivet nuts 64 are inserted through the rings into the holes 34.

[0182] As illustrated in FIG. 7C, spacing elements 66 are screwed into the blind rivet nuts 64 and secured using stoppers 68. The spacing element 66, the blind rivet nut 64 and the stopper 68 have compatible threading. In FIG. 7D, external substrate 38 is positioned adjacent to the structural elements 26 such that spacing elements 66 protrude through the holes 52. In this way, external substrate 38 hangs on the spacing elements 66. Next, the cladding beams 14 are aligned over the external substrate 38 such that spacing elements 66 protrude through the holes 48 of the cladding beams. A securing element is then screwed and tightened over spacing element 66. The securing element may be nut or a stopper such as stopper 58 or 56. In this embodiment, the biasing mechanism comprises the following components: rings (optional), a blind rivet nut, a spacing element, a stopper, a securing element, e.g. a nut (M6 hex flange nut).

[0183] External wall 12 may further comprise an internal substrate 76 which may be connected to an interior facing side (e.g. parallel side 28) of structural element 26. Internal substrate 76 may be fabricated from materials known in the art including plaster board, cement board, wood etc.

[0184] The transportable construction-modules disclosed herein comprise at least four walls, wherein at least one, two, three or all of the walls are exterior walls and fabricated with exterior substrates and cladding beams thereupon, as described herein above.

[0185] Once the skeleton of the construction module is complete (i.e. the frames with their connected structural elements are connected so as to define the volumetric space), the interior of the construction module may be fabricated.

[0186] In one embodiment, construction-modules comprise at least one interior wall. The interior wall may be constructed from materials known in the art including but not limited to plaster, cement board and wood. The interior walls may comprise an opening, for example for a door or window. The interior walls may further comprise a finishing exterior (e.g. paint, cladded, sealing).

[0187] Interior walls may further comprise a conduit for at least one of electrical, insulating, plumbing or communications components. Electrical wiring and plumbing (the latter including floor drains and waste piping, as required), can be pre-installed in the floor, walls and / or ceiling of the construction-modules.

[0188] In one embodiment, construction-modules comprise at least one room. In another embodiment, the construction-modules are partitioned into at least two rooms or even three rooms.

[0189] The construction-modules may comprise additional fixtures such as at least one lighting fixture and / or a bathroom fixture (e.g. shower installation).

[0190] Selected fittings may be installed in the module. For example, the module may comprise a kitchen pod containing kitchen fittings or a bathroom pod containing bathroom fittings. Such a pod may occupy a minor part only of the interior volume of the module.

[0191] Once completed, the non-cladded construction-modules are transported to the building site and connected to one another (e.g. stacked one on top of the other) to form a structure. In one embodiment, the structure is a residential structure. Methods of connecting structures to one another typically rely on the use of fastening elements and use methods such as bolting, welding and composite methods of connecting. The structure is typically cladded only after the construction-modules have been connected and / or stacked.

[0192] Thus, according to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of generating an externally cladded multi-storey structure, the method comprising:

[0193] (a) stacking a plurality of transportable construction modules so as to form a multistorey structure, each of the transportable construction modules having at least four vertical sides defining an inner volumetric space, wherein at least one the vertical sides serves as a part of an external wall of the structure, each the construction modules having a plurality of cladding beams structurally affixed thereto prior to stacking; and subsequently

[0194] (b) attaching cladding elements to the cladding beams, thereby cladding the multistorey structure.

[0195] , According to still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a multistorey structure, each storey of the structure comprising at least two of the constructionmodules described herein, the construction-modules being at least a part of the volume of the structure.

[0196] The exterior-facing surface of the exterior walls of the structure are cladded with cladding elements. In one embodiment, the cladding elements are positioned so as to comply with a predesigned architectural plan which is dictated by the position of the already prepared cladding beams. According to a particular embodiment, the cladding elements form a ventilated fatjade over the structure.

[0197] According to some exemplary embodiments, cladding elements used for cladding an exterior facing surface of a wall are porcelain or ceramic tiles. Such cladding elements may be fabricated from other man-made (i.e., synthetic) materials (such as high pressure laminate (HPL), concrete, Corian®, Caesarstone®), glass, clay, brick or with slate. According to some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the cladding elements are water-resistant, e.g. they may have a water absorption of less than 0.5 %.

[0198] FIGs. 9 and 10 illustrate an exemplary method for preparing cladding elements so that they can connect to the external walls of the construction-modules. Holes 78 (also referred to herein as fourth holes) are drilled into the back surface of the cladding elements 16. Fourth holes 78 are positioned such that they will align with the first holes 34, second holes 48 of cladding beams 16 and third holes 52 of external substrate 38. In one embodiment holes 78 are undercut holes. Lock-nuts 80 are inserted into the holes 78. In one embodiment, lock-nuts 80 are undercut anchors and are compatible with undercut holes. A load dispersion element 82 may be used to disperse load over a surface area of the cladding element 16, so as to reduce load imposed by the lock-nuts 80 on walls defining the hole 78 on back surface of cladding element 16.

[0199] The load dispersion element 82 is placed tightly against the back surface of cladding element 16 to relieve lateral forces and blows by spreading the force over a larger surface area. The load dispersion element 82 may be a plate and / or a washer that is according to exemplary embodiments made of metal, e.g., steel. According to some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the load dispersion element is about 40 mm in diameter.

[0200] According to some exemplary embodiments, load dispersion element 82 is positioned against back surface of a cladding element 16 over lock-nut 80. According to some exemplary embodiments, load dispersion element 82 is a pressure-relieving washer including a central bore 83. The load dispersion element 82 is placed over the back surface of the cladding element 16 with the central bore 83 positioned over the lock-nut 80 which has been inserted into the cladding element 16. Cladding engaging elements 84 are threaded through a nut element 86. Once the cladding engaging element 84 is screwed into the lock nuts 80, the nut element 86 can be tightened to secure the load dispersion element 82 to the cladding element 16. In some exemplary embodiments, central bore 83 has a polygon shape, e.g., pentagonal for receiving nut element 86 and resisting rotation between nut element 86 in bore 83. Load dispersion element 82 is shown to have a pentagonal shape. Other shapes, e.g., rectangular, round, and hexagonal are also contemplated. In some exemplary embodiments, cladding engaging element 84 acts as a flaring element and flares the lock nut 80 (being an undercut anchor) inside the hole 78 (e.g. undercut hole). Cladding engaging element 84 may penetrate lock nut 80 with a threaded engagement. The threaded engagement reinforce the pressure of the load dispersion element 82 against back surface of cladding element 16.

[0201] Two exemplary cladding engagement elements are illustrated in FIGs. 10A-B.

[0202] As seen in FIG. 10A, exemplary cladding engagement elements 84 have an elongated structure having a distal end 88 and a proximal end 89, the distal end 88 is acceptable and retainable in fourth holes 78 on the back of end-cladding elements 16 (e.g. by compatible threading) into which locknuts 80 are inserted and the proximal end 89 is acceptable, and retainable in retainers 50 (e.g. by compatible threading) comprised in the cladding beams 14.

[0203] As seen in FIG. 10B, cladding engagement element 90 comprise a locking mechanism, have an elongated structure having a distal end 92 and a proximal end 94. The distal end 92 is acceptable and retainable in fourth holes 78 on the back of cladding elements 16 (e.g. by compatible threading) and the proximal end 90 comprises a clip lock for clip- shaped element 96.

[0204] Thus, according to another embodiment, there is provided an engaging set for engaging a cladding element onto a horizontal cladding beam, the system comprising: a clip-shaped element (e.g. spring clip, such as spring clip 96) having an internal portion and an external portion, said internal and external portions being designed to engage the cladding beam; a cladding element engaging kit being designed for engaging the cladding element to said external portion of said clip-shaped element.

[0205] The clip-shaped element 96 comprises internal portion 100 having a leading edge and external portion 102 which is placed in intimate contact with the load dispersion element 82.

[0206] In one embodiment, the cladding element engaging kit comprises a lock nut connectable to a backside of the cladding element (e.g. lock nut 80). The lock nut may be an undercut anchor.

[0207] Optionally, the cladding element engaging kit further comprises a load dispersion element placeable between the cladding element and said external portion of said clip element. Exemplary load dispersion elements are described herein above.

[0208] Optionally, the kit further comprises a cladding engaging element (e.g. a flaring element) for flaring the undercut anchor into said undercut hole. The cladding engaging element may comprise a bolt for securing the cladding engaging element. Optionally, the cladding engaging element is cladding engagement element 90.

[0209] Typically, the elements in the engaging set are fabricated from non-corrosive materials.

[0210] In one embodiment, the top row holes of cladding element 16 are fitted with cladding engagement elements 84, whereas the bottom (and optionally middle) row holes are fitted with cladding engagement elements 90. An exemplary configuration of cladding engagement elements is illustrated in FIG. 10C.

[0211] Reference is now made to FIGs. 11A and 11B which illustrates how cladding elements 16 may be attached to the external wall, according to embodiments of the invention. In order to clad the structures of this aspect of the invention, the cladding elements 16 which have been prefitted with cladding engagement elements 84 and / or 90 are lined up with the cladding beams 14 of the external wall 12. Distal end 88 of the cladding engagement elements 84 are inserted into the retainers 50 of cladding beams 14 and a securing nut 98 is used to secure the cladding engagement elements in place. Distal end 92 of the cladding engagement elements 90 are inserted through a clip-shaped element 96 and into the retainers (e.g. slits) 50 of the cladding beams 14. Clip-shaped element 96 clips over the cladding beams 14.

[0212] Additional methods of connecting end cladding elements to cladding beams on the external surface of a modular structure having cladding beams are known in the art. For example, the present inventors contemplate inserting slotting elements into a slot formed in the upper edge of the end-cladding element. This may be carried out using slotting elements, which are attached to a base, whereby the base is connectable via cladding engaging elements to the cladding beams. In one embodiment, the slotting elements are U-shaped elements such as those described in Patent Application No. IL2022 / 050515, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0213] In another embodiment, the end cladding element is connected (directly or indirectly) to the end cladding engaging element via a visible nut. A hole may be drilled through the end cladding element to allow connection.

[0214] Additional objects, advantages, and novel features of the present invention will become apparent to one ordinarily skilled in the art upon examination of the following examples, which are not intended to be limiting. Additionally, each of the various embodiments and aspects of the present invention as delineated hereinabove and as claimed in the claims section below finds experimental support in the following examples.

[0215] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims. All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention.

[0216] It is the intent of the applicant(s) that all publications, patents and patent applications referred to in this specification are to be incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually noted when referenced that it is to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting. In addition, any priority document(s) of this application is / are hereby incorporated herein by reference in its / their entirety.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method of generating an externally cladded multi-storey structure, the method comprising:(a) stacking a plurality of transportable construction modules so as to form a multistorey structure, each of said transportable construction modules having at least four vertical sides defining an inner volumetric space, wherein at least one said vertical sides serves as a part of an external wall of the structure, each said construction modules having a plurality of cladding beams structurally affixed thereto prior to stacking; and subsequently(b) attaching cladding elements to said cladding beams, thereby cladding the multistorey structure.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein each of said construction modules comprise a frame defining said inner volumetric space and a plurality of structural elements connected to said frame, said external wall further comprises an external substrate, wherein said frame and / or said structural elements are load-bearing.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein said cladding beams are positioned such that said cladding elements overlap a seam between at least two storeys of the structure.

4. The method of any one of claims 1-3, wherein said cladding beams are positioned so as to allow cladding with said cladding elements said external wall of the structure, which are not in alignment with any one of said plurality of construction-modules.

5. The method of any one of claims 1-4, wherein said cladding beams are positioned so as to allow cladding with said cladding elements over at least part of said external wall of the structure when completed, in accordance with a predesigned architectural plan.

6. The method of claim 2, wherein said structural elements extend from a top end to a bottom end of said load-bearing frame.

7. The method of claim 2, wherein said structural elements comprise columns.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein said columns comprise vertical columns.

9. The method of any one of claims 1-8, wherein said cladding beams are positioned horizontally when the module is upright.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein said plurality of cladding beams are affixed to be substantially perpendicular to said vertical columns.

11. The method of claim 2, wherein said external substrate comprises an insulating material and / or a water resistant material.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein said insulating material comprises a soundinsulating material and / or a thermal-insulating material.

13. The method of claim 2, wherein said external substrate is a multilayer substrate, wherein at least one layer of said substrate comprises a sound or thermal-insulating material.

14. The method of claim 2, wherein said external substrate comprising one or more openings formed through a thickness of said substrate, each of said one or more openings corresponding to an opening formed in said external wall of the structure.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein said construction module further comprises a frame which is firmly secured into said one or more opening.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein said frame is a blind frame.

17. The method of claim 2, wherein two of said four vertical sides are parts of two external walls of a single construction module, each further comprising said external substrate.

18. The method of any one of claims 1-17, wherein said module further comprises a floor and / or a ceiling.

19. The method of any one of claims 1-18, further comprising fabricating at least one interior wall of the module prior to said stacking.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein said at least one interior wall comprises a material selected from the group consisting of plaster, cement board, wood and a ceramic.

21. The method of claim 19, wherein said interior wall comprises an opening for a door.

22. The method of any one of claims 19-21, wherein said interior wall comprises a finishing exterior.

23. The method of any one of claims 1-22, further comprising inserting components in a conduit of said external wall, said components comprising electrical, insulating, plumbing or communications components.

24. The method of any one of claims 19-22, further comprising inserting components in a conduit of said internal wall, said components comprising electrical, insulating, plumbing or communications components.

25. The method of any one of claims 19-24, wherein said construction modules comprise at least two rooms.

26. The method of any one of claims 19-25, wherein said construction modules further comprise a lighting fixture and / or a bathroom fixture.

27. The method of any one of claims 1-26, wherein said plurality of cladding beams are made from metal.

28. The method of any one of claims 1-27, wherein said cladding beams have a C- shaped profile.

29. The method of claim 2 or any one of claims 3-28 when dependent on claim 2, wherein an exterior facing part of said structural elements comprise a plurality of preformed first holes, an interior facing part of said cladding beams comprise a plurality of preformed second holes, and said external substrate comprises a plurality of corresponding third preformed holes, said first holes, said second holes and said third holes being aligned so as toallow, using a biasing mechanism, for biasing said external substrate between said cladding beams and said structural elements and for structurally connecting said cladding beams to said structural elements.

30. The method of claim 2 or any one of claims 3-28 when dependent on claim 2, wherein said cladding beams and said external substrate are positioned over said structural elements so as to allow, using a biasing mechanism, for biasing said external substrate between said cladding beams and said structural elements and for structurally connecting said cladding beams to said structural elements.

31. The method of claim 29, wherein an exterior facing part of said cladding beams comprise a plurality of retainers for retaining said cladding elements.

32. The method of any one of claims 29-31, wherein said biasing mechanism comprises:(i) a transmember having a head and a compatible nut; or(ii) a transmember lacking a head and two compatible nuts.

33. The method of any one of claims 29-31, wherein said biasing mechanism comprises the following components: 0-2 rings, a blind rivet nut, a spacing element, a stopper, a securing element (M6 hex flange nut), such that when said components are connected to and / or through one another, said biasing mechanism is formed.

34. The method of any one of claims 2-33, wherein said plurality of structural elements comprise a C shape, T shape or H shaped profile.

35. The method of any one of claims 2-34, wherein said plurality of structural elements are made of metal.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein said metal is steel.

37. The method of any one of claims 2-36, wherein said external wall further comprises an internal substrate.

38. The method of claim 37, further comprising attaching said internal substrate to an interior-facing part of said structural elements.

39. The method of any one of claims 1-38, wherein said cladding elements are water-resistant.

40. The method of claim 29, wherein a back or side surface of said cladding elements comprise fourth holes, wherein cladding engaging elements are inserted into said fourth holes.

41. The method of any one of claims 1-40, wherein a back surface of said cladding elements comprise undercut holes.

42. The method of claim 41, further comprising inserting undercut anchors into said undercut holes.

43. The method of any one of claims 1-42, wherein said cladding elements are made from a material selected from the group consisting of brick, porcelain, ceramic, plastic, wood and cement board.

44. The method of claim 40, wherein said cladding engaging elements comprise an elongated structure having a distal end and a proximal end, said distal end being acceptable and retainable in said fourth holes on said back or side surface of said cladding elements and said proximal end being acceptable, and retainable in retainers comprised in said cladding beams.

45. A transportable construction-module for use in constructing a structure comprising:(i) a frame defining a volumetric space having at least four vertical sides and a plurality of structural elements connected to said frame, at least one said vertical sides being a part of an external wall of the structure when completed, said external wall further comprises an external substrate, wherein said frame and / or said structural elements are load-bearing; and(ii) a plurality of cladding beams structurally affixed to said structural elements of said external wall, whereby said external substrate is positioned between said structural elements and said cladding beams.

46. The construction-module of claim 45, wherein in a structure which comprises at least two of said construction-module, said cladding beams are positioned so as to allow cladding with corresponding cladding elements said external wall of the structure architecturally, not necessarily in alignment with any one of said at least two constructionmodules.

47. The construction-module of claim 46, wherein in a structure which comprises at least two of said construction-module, said cladding beams are positioned so as to allow cladding with corresponding cladding elements an external wall of the structure which are not in alignment with any one of said at least two construction-modules.

48. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-47, wherein said cladding beams are positioned so as to allow cladding with corresponding cladding elements over at least part of the external wall of the structure when completed, in accordance with a predesigned architectural plan.

49. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-47, wherein said structural elements extend from a top end to a bottom end of said load-bearing frame.

50. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-49, being uncladded.

51. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-48, wherein said structural elements comprise columns.

52. The construction-module of claim 51, wherein said columns comprise vertical columns.

53. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-52, wherein said cladding beams are positioned horizontally when the module is upright.

54. The construction-module of claims 52 or 53, wherein said plurality of cladding beams are affixed to be substantially perpendicular to said vertical columns.

55. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-54, wherein said external substrate comprises an insulating material and / or a water resistant material.

56. The construction-module of claim 55, wherein said insulating material comprises a sound-insulating material and / or a thermal-insulating material.

57. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-54, wherein said external substrate is a multilayer substrate, wherein at least one layer of said substrate comprises a sound or thermal-insulating material.

58. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-55, wherein said external substrate comprising one or more openings formed through a thickness of said substrate, each of said one or more openings corresponding to an opening formed in said external wall of the structure.

59. The construction-module of claim 58, further comprising a frame which is firmly secured into said one or more opening.

60. The construction-module of claim 59, wherein said frame is a blind frame.

61. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-58, wherein two of said four vertical sides are parts of two external walls of a single construction module, each further comprising said external substrate.

62. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-61, further comprising a floor and / or a ceiling.

63. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-62, further comprising at least one interior wall of the module.

64. The construction-module of claim 63, wherein said at least one interior wall comprises a material selected from the group consisting of plaster, cement board, wood and a ceramic.

65. The construction-module of claim 63, wherein said interior wall comprises an opening for a door.

66. The construction-module of any one of claims 63-65, wherein said interior wall comprises a finishing exterior.

67. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-66, wherein said external wall comprises a conduit for at least one of electrical, insulating, plumbing or communications components.

68. The construction-module of any one of claims 63-66, wherein said interior wall comprises a conduit for at least one of electrical, insulating, plumbing or communications components.

69. The construction-module of any one of claims 63-68, comprising at least two rooms.

70. The construction-module of any one of claims 63-69, further comprising a lighting fixture and / or a bathroom fixture.

71. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-70, wherein said plurality of cladding beams are made from metal.

72. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-71, wherein said cladding beams have a C-shaped profile.

73. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-72, wherein an exterior facing part of said structural elements comprise a plurality of preformed first holes, an interior facing part of said cladding beams comprise a plurality of preformed second holes, and said external substrate comprises a plurality of corresponding third preformed holes, said first holes, said second holes and said third holes being aligned so as to allow, using a biasing mechanism, for biasing said external substrate between said cladding beams and said structural elements and for structurally connecting said cladding beams to said structural elements.

74. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-72, wherein said cladding beams and said external substrate are positioned over said structural elements so as to allow, using a biasing mechanism, for biasing said external substrate between said cladding beams and said structural elements and for structurally connecting said cladding beams to said structural elements.

75. The construction-module of claim 73, wherein an exterior facing part of said cladding beams comprise a plurality of retainers for retaining cladding elements.

76. The construction-module of any one of claims 73-75, wherein said biasing mechanism comprises:(i) a transmember having a head and a compatible nut; or(ii) a transmember lacking a head and two compatible nuts.

77. The construction-module of any one of claims 73-75, wherein said biasing mechanism comprises the following components: 0-2 rings, a blind rivet nut, a spacing element, a stopper, a securing element (M6 hex flange nut), such that when said components are connected to and / or through one another, said biasing mechanism is formed.

78. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-77, wherein said plurality of structural elements comprise a C shape, T shape or H shaped profile.

79. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-78, wherein said plurality of structural elements are made of metal.

80. The construction-module of claim 79, wherein said metal is steel.

81. The construction-module of any one of claims 45-80, wherein said external wall further comprises an internal substrate.

82. The construction-module of claim 81, wherein said internal substrate is attached to an interior-facing part of said structural elements.

83. A multi-storey structure, each storey of the structure comprising at least two of the construction-modules of any one of claims 45-82, the construction-modules being at least a part of the volume of the structure.

84. The structure of claim 83, wherein an exterior-facing surface of said exterior wall of the structure is cladded with cladding elements, so as to comply with a predesigned architectural plan, said cladding elements forming an aesthetic ventilated facade.

85. The structure of claim 84, wherein said cladding elements are water-resistant.

86. The structure of any one of claims 84-85, wherein a back or side surface of said cladding elements comprise fourth holes, wherein cladding engaging elements are inserted into said fourth holes.

87. The structure of any one of claims 84-85, wherein a back surface of said cladding elements comprise undercut holes.

88. The structure of claim 87, wherein undercut anchors are inserted into said undercut holes.

89. The structure of any one of claims 84-88, wherein said cladding elements are made from a material selected from the group consisting of brick, porcelain, ceramic, plastic, wood and cement board.

90. The structure of claim 86, wherein said cladding engaging elements comprise an elongated structure having a distal end and a proximal end, said distal end being acceptable and retainable in said fourth holes on said back or side surface of said cladding elements and said proximal end being acceptable, and retainable in retainers comprised in said cladding beams.

91. The structure of any one of claims 75-80, wherein said cladding engaging elements further comprise a clip.

92. A method of fabricating a transportable construction-module for use in constructing a structure comprising:(a) spacing a plurality of structural elements to define a volumetric space having at least four vertical sides, at least one said vertical sides being a part of an external wall of the structure when completed;(b) positioning an external substrate over an exterior facing part of said structural elements which define said at least one said vertical sides; and(c) affixing cladding beams to said exterior facing part of said structural elements, wherein said external substrate is positioned between said structural elements and said cladding beams.

93. The method of claim 92, further comprising connecting an internal substrate to an interior facing part of said structural elements so as to construct each of said four vertical sides.

94. The method of any one of claims 92-93, further comprising fabricating internal walls of said construction module.

95. A method of cladding the multi-storey structure of claim 83 comprising:(a) connecting cladding engaging elements to a back surface or side surface of a plurality of cladding elements; and(b) engaging said cladding engaging elements to said cladding beams, thereby cladding the multi-storey structure of claim 83.

96. The method of claim 95, wherein said engaging is according to a predesigned architectural plan thereby forming a seamless ventilated fatjade.

97. An engaging set for engaging a cladding element onto a horizontal cladding beam, the system comprising:(i) a clip-shaped element having an internal portion and an external portion, said internal and external portions being designed to engage the cladding beam; and(ii) a cladding element engaging kit being designed for engaging the cladding element to said external portion of said clip-shaped element.

98. The engaging set of claim 97, wherein said clip-shaped element comprises a spring clip.

99. The engaging set of claim 97, wherein said internal portion has an opening through which said cladding element engaging kit is being placed.

100. The engaging set of any one of claims 97-99, wherein said cladding element engaging kit comprises a lock nut connectable to a back-side of the cladding element.

101. The engaging set of claim 100, wherein said lock nut is an undercut anchor connectable into a compatible undercut hole formed on said back-side of the cladding element.

102. The engaging set of any one of claims 97-101, wherein said cladding element engaging kit further comprises a load dispersion element placeable between said cladding element and said external portion of said clip element.

103. The engaging set of claim 101, wherein said cladding element engaging kit further comprises a cladding engaging element for flaring said undercut anchor into said undercut hole.

104. The engaging set of claim 101, wherein said cladding element engaging kit further comprises a bolt for securing said cladding engaging element.

105. The engaging set of any one of claims 101-104, wherein said external and internal portions and said cladding engaging element are so positioned with respect to one another such that said cladding engaging element being integrated with said clip-shaped element is insertable into a dedicated vertical slit formed in said horizontal beam.

106. A horizontal cladding beam for connecting an end-cladding element to a structure, the horizontal cladding beam comprising an elongated U-shaped element having an elongated base and an elongated structure-side and an elongated cladding-element side extending upwardly from said elongated base, wherein said elongated base is formed with a plurality of openings thereby allowing airflow therethrough, whereas said elongated cladding-element side is formed with a plurality of slits for receiving and retaining an engaging set for engaging the end-cladding element with the horizontal cladding beam, and further whereas said elongated structure-side being connectable to the structure.

107. A system for end-cladding a structure comprising:(a) the horizontal cladding beam of claim 106; and(b) the engaging set of any one of claims 97-105.

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