Barrier arrangement

Abstract

An embodiment of a barrier arrangement (5) is disclosed. In one form, the barrier arrangement (5) is operable for preventing or mitigating ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris into a substantial portion of a length of a space between adjacently disposed first (10) and second (15) building structures or modules arranged in a generally side-by-side manner. In one form, the barrier arrangement (5) comprises a cover member (20) is provided that is configured extending between first (25) and second (30) spaced apart edge regions thereof. The first edge region (25) of the cover member (20) is provided that is configured of or being sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module (10) so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge. A first seal arrangement (35) is provided that is configured to be carried by the second edge region (30) of the cover member (20). A second seal arrangement (40) is provided that is configured of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module (15) so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge. The barrier arrangement (5) is configured so that positioning or assembly of the cover member (20) in respect of the second seal arrangement (40) enables an engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building module (25) and the first seal arrangement (35) for establishing a first barrier (F1) in respect of the space, and an engagement between the second seal arrangement (40) and a portion of the extension of the cover member (20) intermediate the first and second edge regions for establishing a second barrier (F2) in respect of the space.

Description

[0001] Barrier Arrangement

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a barrier arrangement for use in preventing or mitigating ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris into a length of a space between adjacently positioned building / shelter structures or modules. In one form, the present disclosure discloses a barrier arrangement for use in preventing or mitigating ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris into a length of space between adjacently positioned shipping container modules. Related methods are also disclosed.

[0004] Related application

[0005] The present application claims the benefit of Australian provisional patent application No. 2024901100 filed on 18 April 2024, the entire content of which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

[0006] Background

[0007] Modular building or shelter structure construction is a developing field of construction. For example, ISO shipping containers are becoming increasingly popular for use in the cost-effective modular construction of buildings / shelters for use as workplaces or accommodations at remote sites. The use of multiple ISO shipping containers for fabricating large modular office / accommodation styled building or shelter structures is becoming common.

[0008] While there is much benefit in the utilisation of modular building / shelter construction using multiple building units / modules (e.g., shipping containers) for fabricating large building / shelter structures for providing usable internal spaces, practical problems in mitigating against adverse environmental conditions (eg. wind, rain, hail, dust, sand etc) persist. For example, while various solutions exist for environment-proofing of modular constructed building / shelter structures are available, all have their own respective advantages and disadvantages in performance and / or application.

[0009] Health and safety in the construction industry is a significant issue requiring compliance. Compliance with health and safety legislation is mandatory and can be costly. Implementing various existing environmentalproofing solutions involved in the construction of modular building / shelters often requires workers needing to operate at elevated heights (e.g., on the roofs of involved structures), requiring requisite / relevant health and safety requirements to be sought / met. Accordingly, solutions offering improved construction techniques which seek to mitigate or avoid risk to construction staff (and their employers) are always sought.

[0010] In one aspect, it is against the above general background that the principles of the present disclosure arise. In another aspect, it is in the context of personnel health / safety as applied to the general area of modular building / shelter structure construction that the principles of the present disclosure arise. It is to be understood that, if any prior art publication, act or item of knowledge is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country. Such information is included only for the purposes of providing context for facilitating an understanding of the inventive concept / principles and the various forms or embodiments in which those inventive concept / principles is / are exemplified.

[0011] Summary

[0012] In a first aspect, an embodiment provides a barrier arrangement for preventing or mitigating ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris into a substantial portion of a length of a space between adjacently disposed first and second building structures or modules arranged in a generally side-by-side manner, the barrier arrangement comprising: a cover member configured extending between first and second spaced apart edge regions thereof, the first edge region of the cover member of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, a first seal arrangement configured of or to be hosted or carried by the second edge region of the cover member, a second seal arrangement of or sealing ly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, wherein, the barrier arrangement is configured so that causing of positioning or assembly of the cover member in respect of the second seal arrangement enables: an engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building module and the first seal arrangement for establishing a first barrier in respect of the space, and an engagement between the second seal arrangement and a portion of the extension of the cover member intermediate the first and second edge regions for establishing a second barrier in respect of the space.

[0013] In a second aspect, an embodiment provides a barrier arrangement for preventing or mitigating ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris into a substantial portion of a length of a space between adjacently disposed first and second building structures or modules arranged in a generally side-by-side manner, the barrier arrangement comprising: a cover member configured extending between first and second spaced apart edge regions thereof, the first edge region of the cover member of or seal ing ly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, a first seal arrangement configured of or to be hosted or carried by the second edge region of the cover member, a second seal arrangement configured of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, wherein, the barrier arrangement is configured so that, on causing of positioning or assembly of the cover member in respect of the second seal arrangement by way of moving of the first building structure or module to a generally side-by-side alignment with the second building structure or module in which respective said upper edges align in parallel relation, engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module and the first seal arrangement establishes a first barrier in respect of the space, and engagement between the second seal arrangement and a portion of the extension of the cover member intermediate its first and second edge regions establishes a second barrier in respect of the space.

[0014] In a third aspect, an embodiment provides a barrier arrangement for preventing or mitigating ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris into a substantial portion of a length of a space between adjacently disposed first and second building structures or modules arranged in a generally side-by-side manner, the barrier arrangement comprising: a cover member configured extending between first and second spaced apart edge regions thereof, the first edge region of the cover member of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, a first seal arrangement configured of or to be hosted or carried by the second edge region of the cover member, a second seal arrangement configured of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, the second seal arrangement configured so as to extend or stand proud of the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module, wherein, the barrier arrangement is configured so that causing of positioning or assembly of the cover member in respect of the second seal arrangement enables: an engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building module and the first seal arrangement for establishing a first barrier in respect of the space, and an engagement between the second seal arrangement and a portion of the extension of the cover member intermediate the first and second edge regions for establishing a second barrier in respect of the space.

[0015] In a fourth aspect, an embodiment provides a barrier arrangement for preventing or mitigating ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris into a substantial portion of a length of a space between adjacently disposed first and second building structures or modules arranged in a generally side-by-side manner, the barrier arrangement comprising: a cover member configured extending between first and second spaced apart edge regions thereof, the first edge region of the cover member of or seal in g ly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, a first seal arrangement configured of or to be hosted or carried by the second edge region of the cover member, a second seal arrangement configured of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, the second seal arrangement configured so as to extend or stand proud of the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module, wherein, the barrier arrangement is configured so that, on causing of positioning or assembly of the cover member in respect of the second seal arrangement by way of moving of the first building structure or module to a generally side-by-side alignment with the second building structure or module in which respective saud upper edges align in parallel relation, engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module and the first seal arrangement establishes a first barrier in respect of the space, and engagement between the second seal arrangement and a portion of the extension of the cover member intermediate its first and second edge regions establishes a second barrier in respect of the space.

[0016] As will be noted herein, an advantage of the principles of the fluid barrier arrangement described herein can be that the establishment of the first, second barriers across or in respect of the space does not require workers to achieve either from atop the roof structures of either of the first, second building structure or unit / modules. Instead, in accordance with some aspects / embodiments of the present disclosure, sealing association / connection of the first edge region of the cover member with the topside / roof structure of the first building structure or module and the sealing association / connection of the second seal arrangement with the topside / roof structure of the second building structure or module, can both be done without workers needing to be atop the respective roof structures. Similarly, with the first edge region of the cover member sealingly associated / connected with the topside / roof structure of the first building structure or module and the second seal arrangement sealingly associated / connected with the topside / roof structure of the second building structure or module, the first and second barriers can be established when the first building structure or module is moved into its desired side-by-side position relative the second building structure or module and without workers needing to be atop the respective roof structures. In this manner, a significant safety risk (of workers operating at elevated heights) can be avoided or mitigated. Furthermore, while significant safety risks are addressed embodiments of the barrier arrangement of the present disclosure seek to provide an improved means of establishing a fluid / debris seal between adjacently positioned building units / modules.

[0017] Embodiments of the aspects described above, and those described below, may comprise any of the following features either individually or in combination.

[0018] In an embodiment, the cover member is shaped or configured (e.g., via its cross-sectional shape, form, or profile) so that engagement between a generally distal portion of the second seal arrangement and the portion of the extension of the cover member intermediate the first and second edge regions is elevated from the engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module and the first seal arrangement with respect to the space.

[0019] In an embodiment, the cover member is configured between the first and second edge regions (e.g., its cross-sectional shape, form, or profile) having a wall portion which in part defines a region in which the second seal arrangement is receivable so to enable (i) engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module and the first seal arrangement for forming the first barrier, and (ii) engagement between the distal portion of the second seal arrangement and an interior facing portion of the wall portion of the cover member intermediate the first and second edge regions on the cover member positioned or assembled in respect of the second seal arrangement or on the first building structure or module caused to be brought into side-by-side level alignment with the second building structure or module for forming the second barrier.

[0020] In an embodiment, the first barrier completes an outer barrier across or in respect of the space, and the second barrier completes an inner barrier across or in respect of the space internal of or within the first barrier.

[0021] In an embodiment, extension of the cover member between its first and second edge regions and a height of the extension of the second seal arrangement proud of the topside / roof structure of the second building structure or module are configured so as to enable establishment or completion of the first and second barriers on the cover member being positioned or assembled in respect of the second seal arrangement or as the first building structure or module is caused to be brought into side-by-side level alignment with the second building structure or module.

[0022] In an embodiment, the barrier arrangement is configured so that positioning or assembly of the cover member in respect of the second sealing arrangement comprises the first building structure or module being lowered to the side-by-side and level alignment adjacent the second building structure or module, the lowering of the first building structure or module bringing the first seal arrangement into engagement with the roof structure of the second building structure or module and the portion of the extension of the cover member into engagement with the distal portion of the second seal arrangement thereby establishing the first and second barriers.

[0023] In an embodiment, the first and second seal arrangements comprise respective lengths of first and second seal elements. In an embodiment, the barrier arrangement is configured so that the first seal element is carried by the second edge region of the cover member along a substantial portion of its length, and the second seal element is carried by a distal portion of the second seal arrangement.

[0024] In an embodiment, the first and second seal arrangements each comprise a respective resilient element enabling the first and second barriers, when formed, to operate as a fluid seal or barrier.

[0025] In an embodiment, the resilient elements of the first and second seal arrangements operate or cooperate during positioning or assembly of the cover member in respect of the second sealing arrangement so as to accommodate a positional variation or discrepancy between the alignment of the first and second building structures or modules relative to each other.

[0026] In an embodiment, the second seal element is supported in spaced or elevated relation from the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module by a length of a first support element sealingly associated or connected therewith, which sealing connection is configured so as to provide a fluid / foreign debris barrier where the first support element connects with the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module, the second seal element being carried by a distal edge of the first support element.

[0027] In an embodiment, the first support element comprises first and second parts, whereby the first part is sealingly associated or connected with the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module so as to provide a fluid / debris barrier where the first part connects therewith, and the second part is fastened atop the first part, the second seal element being carried at a distal edge of the second part.

[0028] In an embodiment, the barrier arrangement is configured so that, on sealing association or connection of the first edge region of the cover member with the topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module, the first edge region of the cover member is supported in spaced relation from the topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module by way of a length of a second support element.

[0029] In an embodiment, the length of the second support element is secured with the topside or roof structure of the first building structure of the module so as to provide a fluid / debris barrier where the second support element connects therewith.

[0030] In an embodiment, a third seal element is provided between lengths of the first and second parts of the first support element, and a fourth seal element is provided between lengths of the second support element and the first edge region of the cover member.

[0031] In an embodiment, respective heights of the first part of the first support element and the second support element are dimensioned to be about the same.

[0032] In an embodiment, the cover member is of generally concave like form and shaped in its extension between the first and second edge regions so as to define an interior wall portion that engages with the second seal element of the second sealing arrangement so as to enable the establishment or completion of the second barrier on positioning or assembly of the cover member in respect of the second sealing arrangement.

[0033] In an embodiment, the cover member is formed or shaped reminiscent of a concave channel section having a depth which in part defines an interior region enabling the second seal element to engage with the interior wall portion of the cover member between the first and second edge regions when the cover member is positioned or assembled in respect of the second seal arrangement for establishing the second barrier.

[0034] In an embodiment, the first edge region of the cover member is configured so as to provide a skirt portion, which skirt portion is configured to overhang or cover substantially across the interface between the second support element and the first edge region.

[0035] In an embodiment, a portion of the cover member adjacently inward of the skirt portion is formed so as to sit substantially flat against the fourth seal element when assembled therewith for fastening with the second support element.

[0036] In an embodiment, the first seal element comprises a first portion configured so as to enable engagement with the second edge region of the cover member, and the second seal element comprises a first portion configured so as to enable engagement with the distal edge of the second part of the first support element.

[0037] In an embodiment, the first portion of the first seal element is configured having parallel spaced apart arm portions between which is configured receivable of a portion of the second edge region of the cover member so as to be carried thereby.

[0038] In an embodiment, the first portion of the second seal element is configured having parallel spaced apart arm portions between which is configured receivable of a portion of the distal edge of the second part of the first support element so as to be carried thereby.

[0039] In an embodiment, the first seal element comprises a second portion adjacent its first portion, the second portion configured having a body, the second portion further comprising a projection configured so as to extend radially outward of the body so that its distal extent engages the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module as the first barrier is being established in a manner such that the projection is biased toward a direction or side of the barrier arrangement from which fluid / debris is likely or reasonably expected to emanate from as the engagement progresses in forming the first barrier. In an embodiment, the projection extends from the body of the first seal element so as to be biased away from the space in the forming o the first barrier.

[0040] In an embodiment, the projection of the first seal element extends radially away from its body at angle from an axis or line along which engagement between the first seal element and the roof structure of the second building structure or module occurs in forming the first barrier. In an embodiment, the second seal element comprises a second portion adjacent its first portion, the second portion configured having a body, the second portion further comprising a projection configured so as to extend radially outward of the body so that its distal extent engages the portion of the extension of the cover member as the second barrier is being established in a manner such that the projection is biased toward a direction, side the first barrier, and / or side of the barrier arrangement from which fluid / debris is likely or reasonably expected to emanate from as the engagement progresses in forming the second barrier. In an embodiment, the projection extends from the body of the second seal element so as to be biased away from the space in the forming of the second barrier.

[0041] In an embodiment, the projection of the second seal element extends radially away from its body at angle from an axis or line along which engagement between the second seal element and the portion of the extension of the cover member occurs in forming the second barrier.

[0042] In an embodiment, the first and second seal elements comprise pinch-weld seals.

[0043] In an embodiment, the third and fourth seal elements are strips of a resilient substrate, or a strip of a gasket element or like substrate.

[0044] In an embodiment, the barrier arrangement provides a labyrinth seal or a flashing arrangement.

[0045] In an embodiment, a portion of a side wall of the cover member leading to its second edge region is shaped so as to align generally with a vertical plane.

[0046] In an embodiment, a portion of the wall of the extension of the cover member intermediate the first and second edge regions is shaped so as to align generally with a horizontal plane.

[0047] In an embodiment, the cover member is formed or shaped so that the portion of the extension of the cover member intermediate the first and second edge regions is elevated from its first and second edge regions on the cover member being assembled in respect of the second seal arrangement.

[0048] In an embodiment, the first part of the first support element is a length of a first tapping block.

[0049] In an embodiment, the second support element is a length of a second tapping block.

[0050] In an embodiment, the lengths of the first and / or second tapping blocks are formed so as to provide an elongate block or strip having a plurality of holes spaced from one another provided at one side of the block / strip, the or each hole provided with an internal thread suitable for threaded engagement with a mechanical fastener carrying a complimentary thread.

[0051] In an embodiment, the first and second building structures or modules are arranged in a generally side-by- side manner in which respective upper edges are aligned in about parallel relation. In an embodiment, alignment of the respective upper edges of the first and second building structure or modules in parallel relation is generally relative to a lengthwise direction or axis of the building structure or modules. In some embodiments, when the upper edges are in parallel relation, both building structure or modules may be about the same height and / or are of like configuration, and, consequentially, the topside or roof structures of the respective first and second building structure or modules may be about level with each other.

[0052] In an embodiment, while the respective upper edges of the first and second building structure or modules may arranged or aligned in parallel relation, there may be a differential in height between the respective upper edges of the first and second building structure or modules. This could be due to the first and second building structure or modules being of different heights or, if the first and second building structure or modules are of like construction, being placed on respective portions of a platform or foundation structure that are uneven or not uniformly levelled relative each other. In such embodiments, the topside / roof structures of the building structure or modules may be spaced vertically from one another. In such embodiments, one or more components of the barrier arrangement (eg. the cover member and / or the second sealing arrangement) may be configured / shaped (eg. cross-sectional shape, form / profile) so as to accommodate or account for such a difference or differential in the vertical elevation / height between the respective upper edges and / or topside / roof structures so that the first and second barriers across or in respect of the space can be established on positioning or assembly of the cover member (or by moving of the first building structure or module) in respect of the second seal arrangement.

[0053] In an embodiment, the first and second building structures or modules are ISO shipping containers.

[0054] In an embodiment, the barrier arrangement is configured so as to, when assembled, extend between corresponding ISO (corner) pockets spaced in respect of an upper edge of one or both first, second ISO shipping containers.

[0055] In an embodiment, respective ends of the barrier arrangement are operable with a respective cap or closure means, the respective cap or closure means configured engageable with a portion of the relevant end of the barrier arrangement so as to cover across the portion of the end.

[0056] In an embodiment, an end of the barrier arrangement is operable with a cap or closure means, the cap or closure means configured so as to cover across a portion of the end, and the barrier arrangement is configured or positioned so that any portion of the end of the of the barrier arrangement remaining open is substantially closed by way of abutting against a portion of one or more respective corner structures of one or both first, second ISO shipping containers.

[0057] In an embodiment, a respective corner structure of the first, second ISO shipping containers is an ISO pocket of the relevant ISO shipping container.

[0058] In a fifth aspect, there is provided a method for preventing or mitigating ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris into a substantial portion of a length of a space between adjacently disposed first and second building structures or modules arranged in a generally side-by-side manner in which respective upper edges align together in about parallel relation, the method comprising, the method comprising: providing components of an embodiment of a barrier arrangement as described herein, sealingly associating or connecting the first edge region of the cover member with a topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, sealingly associating or connecting the second seal arrangement with a topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, positioning or assembling the cover member in respect of the second seal arrangement so as to cause engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building module and the first seal arrangement carried by the second edge region for establishing a first barrier in respect of the space, and engagement between the second seal arrangement and a portion of the extension of the cover member intermediate the first and second edge regions for establishing a second barrier in respect of the space.

[0059] In a sixth aspect, an embodiment provides a method of assembling a barrier arrangement for preventing or mitigating ingress of fluid and / or debris into a substantial portion of a length of a space between adjacently disposed first and second building structures or modules arranged in a generally side-by-side manner, the method comprising, the method comprising: providing components of an embodiment of a barrier arrangement as described herein, sealingly associating or connecting the first edge region of the cover member with a topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, sealingly associating or connecting the second seal arrangement with a topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, positioning or assembling the cover member in respect of the second seal arrangement by way of moving of the first building structure or module to a generally side-by-side alignment with the second building structure or module, for causing engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module and the first seal arrangement carried by the second edge region for establishing a first barrier in respect of the space, and engagement between the second seal arrangement and a portion of the extension of the cover member intermediate the first and second edge regions for establishing a second barrier in respect of the space.

[0060] The fifth or sixth aspects may comprise any of the following features either individually or in combination. In an embodiment, first building structure or module is a first shipping container and the second building structure or module is a second shipping container, the method comprising positioning the second shipping container on a foundation or platform in a desired position.

[0061] In an embodiment, the method involves positioning the first shipping container adjacent but elevated from the second shipping container.

[0062] In an embodiment, the method involves lowering the first shipping container to the foundation or platform so as so that both shipping containers are side-by-side in parallel relation and in generally level alignment with each other.

[0063] In an embodiment, the method involves connecting proximal or adjacent corner structures of respective first and second shipping containers together using any of: a mechanical fastening system, a bridge-lock fastening system.

[0064] In an embodiment, the method involves connecting the first and second shipping containers to the foundation or platform.

[0065] In an embodiment, sealing association or connection of the first edge region of the cover member with the first building structure or module is undertaken by an operator not standing on the topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module.

[0066] In an embodiment, sealing association or connection of the second sealing arrangement with the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module is undertaken by an operator or worker not standing on the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module.

[0067] In a seventh aspect, an embodiment provides a building structure or module comprising a cover member arranged according to an embodiment of the cover member of any embodiment of the barrier arrangement as described herein, a first edge region of the cover member of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near one of its upper edge.

[0068] In an eighth aspect, an embodiment provides a building structure or module comprising a support element arranged according to an embodiment of the second support element of any embodiment of the barrier arrangement described herein, the support element of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near one of its upper edge. In one embodiment, the support element is used for supporting an edge region of the cover member of any embodiment of the barrier arrangement as described herein. In an embodiment, the edge region of the cover member supported by the support element is the first edge region as described herein. In an embodiment, the support element is a tapping block as described herein.

[0069] In a ninth aspect, an embodiment provides a building structure or module comprising a fluid / debris barrier arranged according to an embodiment of the second seal arrangement of any embodiment of the barrier arrangement described herein, the fluid / debris barrier of or sealing ly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near one of its upper edges.

[0070] In an tenth aspect, an embodiment provides a building structure or module comprising a support element arranged according to an embodiment of the first part of the first support element of any embodiment of the barrier arrangement described herein, the support element of or sealing ly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near one of its upper edges. In one embodiment, the support element is used for supporting a portion of an embodiment of the second seal arrangement of any embodiment of the barrier arrangement as described herein. In an embodiment, said portion of the second seal arrangement is a length of angle section. In an embodiment, a distal portion of the angle section carries a seal element, which may be arranged according to an embodiment of a second seal element of any embodiment of the barrier arrangement. In an embodiment, the support element is provided in the form of an embodiment of a tapping block as described herein.

[0071] In an eleventh aspect, an embodiment provides a building structure or module comprising a cover member arranged according to an embodiment of the cover member of any embodiment of the barrier arrangement as described herein, a first edge region of the cover member of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near a first of its upper edges, the building structure or module further comprising a fluid / debris barrier configured according to an embodiment of the second seal arrangement of any embodiment of the barrier arrangement as described herein, the fluid / debris barrier of or sealingly associated or connected with the topside or roof structure of the building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near a second of its upper edges, the first and second upper edges being in parallel relation.

[0072] In a twelfth aspect, an embodiment provides a building structure or module comprising a support element of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near a first of its upper edges, the support element configured for supporting an edge region of a cover member according to an embodiment of the cover member of any embodiment of the barrier arrangement as described herein, the building structure or module further comprising a further support element arranged according to an embodiment of the first part of any embodiment of the first support element of any embodiment of the barrier arrangement as described herein, the further support element of or sealingly associated or connected with the topside or roof structure of the building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near a second of its upper edges, the further support element configured for supporting a seal element in spaced relation from the second upper edge, the first and second upper edges being in parallel relation. In an embodiment, said support element and said further support element are each provided in the form of any embodiment of a tapping block as described herein.

[0073] In another aspect, an embodiment provides an assembly of more than one building structures or modules arranged in a generally side by side and substantially parallel or level alignment having a fluid and / or debris barrier provided across a length of a space therebetween, the fluid and / or debris barrier being arranged according to any embodiment of the barrier arrangement as described herein.

[0074] In a further aspect, an embodiment provides an assembly of more than one building structures or modules comprising: at least one first building structure or module arranged according to the seventh or eighth aspects, and at least one second building structure or module arranged according to the ninth or tenth aspects.

[0075] In a further aspect, an embodiment provides a labyrinth seal assembly for establishing a fluid and / or debris seal across or in respect of a length of a space between adjacently disposed respective upper edges of topside or roof structures of first and second building structures or modules arranged in a generally side- by-side manner, the labyrinth seal assembly configured according to the barrier arrangement as described herein.

[0076] In another aspect, an embodiment provides a building or shelter structure comprising an assembly as described above or as otherwise described herein.

[0077] An embodiment provides a barrier system for use in preventing or mitigating ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris into a substantial portion of a length of a space between adjacently disposed first and second building structures or modules arranged in a generally side-by-side manner, the barrier system comprising components of any embodiment of the barrier arrangement as described herein. In an embodiment, the barrier system further comprises one or more means for closing at least a portion of one or more ends of the barrier arrangement.

[0078] Various aspects described herein can be practiced alone or combination with one or more of the other aspects, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art. The various aspects can optionally be provided in combination with one or more of the optional features described in relation to the other aspects. Furthermore, optional features described in relation to one example (or embodiment) can optionally be combined alone or together with other features in different examples or embodiments.

[0079] For the purposes of summarising the aspects, certain aspects, advantages and novel features have been described herein above. It is to be understood, however, that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimises one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0080] The present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying non-limiting drawings, in which:

[0081] Figure 1 shows a cross section view of one embodiment of a barrier arrangement arranged consistent with the present disclosure arranged to provide a barrier across or in respect of a space between two adjacently disposed container modules arranged in a side-by-side manner.

[0082] Figure 2 shows a cross section close up view of the first of the container modules arranged with the cover member of the embodiment of the barrier arrangement shown in Figure 1.

[0083] Figure 3 shows a cross section close up view of the second of the container modules arranged with the second seal arrangement of the embodiment of the barrier arrangement shown in Figure 1.

[0084] Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of an implementation of a method for assembling the embodiment of the barrier arrangement shown in Figure 1 , in the context of the barrier arrangement being used to barrier across or in respect of a space between an assembly of two container modules positioned adjacent one another in a side-by-side manner.

[0085] Figure 5 shows a schematic representation extending the situation contemplated by Figure 4, to a context involving a number of barrier arrangements consistent with the embodiment shown in Figure 1 as applied to an assembly of five container modules positioned adjacent one another in a side-by-side manner.

[0086] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of an end region of the embodiment of the barrier arrangement shown in Figures 1 to 5.

[0087] Figure 7 shows an exploded perspective view involving an embodiment of an end cap of an end cap or closure arrangement configured operable with the end region of the embodiment of the barrier arrangement shown in Figure 6 (the end cap ready for fitment with the end of the barrier arrangement).

[0088] Figure 8 shows an alternate aspect of the perspective view of Figure 7.

[0089] Figure 9 shows a perspective view of the embodiment of the end cap shown in Figures 7 to 8, assembled with the end of the embodiment of the barrier arrangement shown in Figures 7 and 8.

[0090] Figure 10 shows an alternate aspect of the perspective view of Figure 9.

[0091] Figure 11 shows a perspective view of an end region of two adjacently disposed ISO shipping containers that have been provided with an embodiment of a barrier arrangement consistent with the present disclosure. Figure 12 shows a perspective view of an end region of the embodiment of the barrier arrangement shown in Figures 1 to 5, using an alternative fastening arrangement as shown in the isolated close-up view.

[0092] In the figures, like elements are referred to by like numerals throughout the views provided. The skilled reader will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, dimensions and / or relative positioning of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to facilitate an understanding of the various embodiments exemplifying the principles described herein. Also, common but well understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are often not depicted in orderto provide a less obstructed view of these various embodiments. It will also be understood that the terms and expressions used herein adopt the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding respective areas of inquiry and study except where specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein.

[0093] It should be noted that the figures are schematic only and the location and disposition of the components can vary according to the particular arrangements of the embodiment(s) as well as of the particular applications of such embodiment(s).

[0094] Specifically, reference to positional descriptions, such as ‘lower’ and ‘upper’, and associated forms such as ‘uppermost’ and ‘lowermost’, are to be taken in context of the embodiments shown in the figures, and are not to be taken as limiting the scope of the principles described herein to the literal interpretation of the term, but rather as would be understood by the skilled reader.

[0095] Embodiments described herein may include one or more range of values (eg. pressure ratios, volumetric flow rates, mass flow rates, flow densities, specific gravities, specific densities etc). A range of values will be understood to include all values within the range, including the values defining the range, and values adjacent to the range which lead to the same or substantially the same outcome as the values immediately adjacent to that value which defines the boundary to the range.

[0096] Other definitions for selected terms used herein may be found outlined above or within the detailed description below and apply throughout. Unless otherwise defined, all other scientific and technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiment(s) relate.

[0097] Detailed Description

[0098] Embodiments of a barrier arrangement for use in establishing a barrier for preventing or mitigating the ingress of fluid (e.g., rain) and / or foreign debris (eg. hail, dust, sand and the like) between adjacently positioned building (or like shelter) structures or constituent building / shelter units / modules will now be described with reference to the accompanying Figures. It should be appreciated that the Figures are exemplary only and are not drawn to scale, and only used to describe the features of one or more embodiments. Figure 1 shows one embodiment of a barrier arrangement 5 configured for establishing a barrier across or in respect of a substantial portion of a length of a space or gap (hereinafter, space S) between adjacently disposed first 10 and second 15 building structures or modules that are arranged in a generally side-by- side manner in which the building structures or modules 10, 15 are in parallel relation with each other relative their respective lengthwise directions or axes. The barrier arrangement 5 of the present disclosure may be implemented between any adjacently disposed building structures or modules 10, 15 in order to prevent or mitigate the ingress of rain and / or other foreign debris (e.g., sand, dust, hail, etc) in the space S between the building structures or modules 10, 15 (or respective topside or roof structures).

[0099] For the embodiment of the barrier arrangement 5 described herein, the first 10 and second 15 building structures or modules (as shown in the Figures) are provided in the form of standard ISO shipping containers (hereinafter, referred to as first container 10, and second container 15). However, the skilled reader will appreciate that the principles of the present disclosure can be applied to other building / shelter structures that can be assembled or positioned together in a side-by-side formation for providing larger / broader building / shelter structure(s) in a modular manner - whether their respective topside or roof structures are at the same height or not. Furthermore, as noted above, the skilled reader will appreciate that the principles of the present disclosure can be applied to any buildings or shelter structures (existing or otherwise) for preventing or mitigating the ingress of rain and / or other foreign debris in the space / gap between the building / shelter structures (or their respective topside / roof structures).

[0100] As will be seen in Figure 1 , the barrier arrangement 5 comprises a cover member 20 configured so as to extend between first 25 and second 30 spaced apart edge regions thereof. As seen, the cover member 20 is configured extending between the first 25 and second 30 edge regions so as to, when the barrier arrangement 5 is assembled for use, cover across the space S between the first 10 and second 15 containers. For the embodiment shown, the shape of the cover member 20 is generally of concave form in its general cross-sectional shape / profile and, for the instance shown throughout the figures, reminiscent of an inverted channel section. As seen in the Figures, the generally concave cross-sectional shape of the cover member 20 defines an interior region which faces the containers 10, 15 and the space S when the barrier arrangement 5 is assembled.

[0101] As seen in Figure 1 , the cover member 20 is shaped (e.g., its cross-sectional shape, form, or profile) comprising a first wall portion 20a aligned substantially in the vertical plane, a second wall portion 20b aligned substantially in the horizontal plane, and a third wall portion 20c aligned substantially in the vertical plane (and spaced apart in parallel alignment with the first wall portion 20a) and provides the second edge region 30 at near its terminal end (as clearly shown in Figure 2). It will be seen in Figures 1 and 2 that the second edge region 30 is configured to host, provide or carry a first seal arrangement 35 (as will be described below). As seen, the first wall portion 20a extends upwards and transitions (in a curved or rounded like manner) to the second wall portion 20b which extends outward therefrom in a generally horizontal alignment before then transitioning (in a curved or rounded like manner) to the third wall portion 20c which extends downward in vertical alignment. In this manner, the configuration / arrangement of the first 20a (which, in one embodiment, may be dimensioned so as to be about 25 mm to about 40 mm, or, for example, about 34 mm), second 20b (which, in one embodiment, may be dimensioned so as to be about 58 mm to about 68 mm, or, for example, about 62 mm) and third 20c (which, in one embodiment, may be dimensioned so as to be about 58 mm to about 68 mm, or, for example, about 62 mm) wall portions defines an interior side or region of the cover member 20 that is receivable of a second sealing arrangement 40 during assembly of the barrier arrangement 5 (as will be described below). The cover member 20 may be characterised as a hood or like member or component which functions to provide a cover or canopy for covering over / across the space S. It will be appreciated that dimensions of the various constituent wall segments or portions of the cover member 20 may vary as might be required for a given circumstance.

[0102] The cover member 20 may be formed from sheet metal. In an embodiment, the cover member 20 is formed from grade 304 stainless steel, but the skilled reader will appreciate that other materials could be used enabling the cover member 20 to be fit for purpose as the application / environment may require (eg. composite materials etc).

[0103] As seen in the embodiment shown in Figure 1 , the cover member 20 is sealingly associated or connected with the topside or roof structure (roof structure 10r, as seen in Figure 11) of the first container 10 by way of its first edge region 25. The topside / roof structure 10r includes an upper edge 10a of the first container 10. The association or connection of the first edge region 25 of the cover member 20 with the roof structure 10r is configured so that the first edge region 25 of the cover member 20 runs or extends along a portion of the length of the first container 10 at or near its upper edge 10a. Association / connection of the first edge region 25 with the topside / roof structure 10r at / near the upper edge 10a of the first container 10 is configured so that a sealing like barrier is provided between the first edge region 25 and the topside / roof structure 10r of the first container 10 that operates to prevent or mitigate the ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris (e.g., sand, dust, hail, etc). In one form, the formed sealing like barrier is a fluid barrier.

[0104] In being sealingly associated or connected with the topside / roof structure 10r of the first container 10, the first edge region 25 of the cover member 20 is fastened to or with the upper side of a length of a support element provided in the form of a strip or length of a first tapping block 26. The first tapping block 26 is secured in position against the roof / edge structure 10r of the first container 10 so that it runs a desired length at / near the upper edge 10a of the first container 10 as shown. For the present case, the first tapping block 26 is intermittently stitch-welded (on both of its sides) to the topside / roof structure 10r at / near the upper edge 10a of the first container 10 in position and an appropriate sealant used to seal between the formed stitch welds. In this manner, a sealing like barrier (e.g., a fluid / debris barrier) is established at the interface between where the base of the first tapping block 26 and the topside / roof structure 10r at / near the upper edge 10a of the first container 10 that operates to prevent or mitigate the ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris. The association / connection between the first tapping block 26 and the upper edge 10a is established so that the first tapping block 26 runs / extends the desired length at / or near the upper edge 10a of the first container 10 in sealing association / connection therewith as shown. The skilled reader would be aware of other ways in which such a connection can be achieved that enables a barrier (that operates to prevent or mitigate the ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris) at the interfacing area to be established.

[0105] With reference to Figure 1 , between where the first edge region 25 and the upper side of the strip of the first tapping block 26 connect is provided a length of a first gasket 28 (e.g., formed from a resilient substrate provided in the form of a natural rubber insertion strip) which serves to assist in providing a sealed region (e.g., a fluid and / or foreign debris barrier between both components when fastened together using bolts or screws (hereinafter, screws 32) spaced at intervals along the length of the first tapping block 26. In one embodiment, the screws 32 are provided in the form of M8 x 25mm hex head screws. In one embodiment, the first gasket 28 may comprise ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) or any other suitable or equivalent sealing substrate. In one form, the first gasket 28 is configured so as to be UV stabilised (due to, for example, the nature of its exposure to the sunlight). In one embodiment, for example, the first gasket 28 may be about 3 mm in thickness, with a width of about 25 mm. The skilled reader will be well aware of other substrates suitable for use as a gasket in the context of the present disclosure, as well as the relevant dimensions.

[0106] Each of the screws 32 may be used with a respective round or annular / ring-shaped washer RW-1 as seen more clearly in Figure 6. The use of round washers RW-1 can, however, facilitate the development of localised well points when the screws 32 are tightened to secure the first edge region 25 of the cover member 20 with the first tapping block 26. This can enable water to pool in the formed well point and increases the risk ingress within the sealing interface. An alternative arrangement to the use of the round washers RW-1 can be seen in Figure 12 where dual square shaped washers SW-1 , SW-2 are used in the manner shown. For the arrangement shown, the upper disposed square shaped washer SW-1 is metallic made from an appropriate grade steel, such as for example, stainless steel (e.g., 304 or 315 grade stainless steel), and the lower disposed square shaped washer SW-2 is provided in the form of a rubber seal member. The use of a square geometry for the washers SW-1 , SW-2 is considered to provide for a larger surface area than the conventional round / annular shaped washer, and allows for a greater distribution of load when the screws 32 are placed under tension thereby reducing the risk of creating distortion in the surfaces / materials below when being secured / tightened and subject to compression (due to the securement of the screws 32). Furthermore, the use / addition of the square shaped washer SW-2 in the form of a rubber seal member of substantially the same dimension / geometry has been found to provide a much better performing sealing arrangement as compared to traditional washer arrangements. Thus, use of the dual square shaped washers SW-1 (metallic), SW-2 (rubber insertion seal) in this arrangement have been found to create or improve the sealing arrangement compared to traditional washer arrangements.

[0107] It will be seen that the first edge region 25 is shaped comprising a flanged portion 25a that is formed following a transition (in a curved or rounded like manner as shown) from the lower extent of the first wall portion 20a, and which flanged portion 25a is configured extending outward from the transition so as to sit flat (the flanged portion 25a being aligned generally horizontally, or orthogonal with the first wall potion 20a) against and atop the first gasket 28 when fastened together with the first tapping block 26 - the flanged portion 25a serving or operating as a washer that is caused to clamp down on the first gasket 28 during fastening (using screws 32) thereby for developing the sealing or fluid / debris barrier therebetween. Furthermore, the first edge region 25 is further shaped to provide a skirt portion 25b that is formed following a transition (in a curved manner as shown) from the flanged portion 25a, and which skirt portion 25a is configured so as to overhang or cover across the first gasket 28 (the skirt portion 25b being generally vertically aligned) when the first edge region 25 is fastened in position with the first tapping block 26. In this manner, the skirt portion 25a serves to provide a further barrier to deflect water / rain / dust / sand from ingress into the space S between the containers 10, 15.

[0108] It will be appreciated that the first edge region 25 could be directly connected (e.g., by a stitch welding or other suitable process) with the roof / edge structure of the first container 10 rather than be supported in position by the first tapping block 26. The first tapping block 26 helps elevate the first edge region 25 of the cover member 20 above the roof structure 10r.

[0109] In some embodiments, it will be appreciated that the tapping block 26 may be formed as part of the first edge region 25 of the cover member 20.

[0110] With reference to Figures 1 and 2, and as noted above, the barrier arrangement 5 comprises a first seal arrangement 35 configured operable with the second edge region 30 of the cover member 20. For the embodiment shown in the Figures, the first seal arrangement 35 comprises a length or strip of a seal element 35a (e.g., formed from a resilient material). The seal element 35a is provided in the form of a pinch-weld seal but could be any appropriate sealing or gasket element configured fit for purpose in the context of the present disclosure. The length of the seal element 35a is arranged to be hosted or carried by the second edge region 30 of the cover member 20 as shown in Figure 2, where, in cross section, the seal element 35a has a first portion having two generally spaced apart arm portions which provide a U-shaped configuration which snugly receives a portion of the second edge region 30 therebetween. Distal of its two arms, the seal element 35a comprises a second portion providing a generally annular or ring-shaped body (when in an uncompressed or deformed state as shown in Figure 2) which deforms (as seen in Figure 1) under engaging pressure (as will be discussed below) due to its resilient constitution. As seen in Figure 2, extending a short distance radially outward from the periphery of the annular body of the seal element 35a is a projection or protrusion (hereinafter, projection 35b) which, on engagement with an opposing surface (as seen in Figure 1), operates to predispose the annular or ring-shaped body of the seal element 35a to bias toward a compressed state / configuration against an engaging surface in a desired way (as seen in Figure 1) thereby improving sealing efficiency. As will be described below, the annular or ring-shaped body of the seal element 35a, on assembly of the barrier arrangement 5, engages with the topside or roof structure 15r of the second container 15 in creating a first barrier F1 (which may be configured to serve as a fluid / debris sealing barrier). As seen in Figure 1 , when the seal element 35a is engaged with a portion of the roof structure 15r of the second container 15, the annular or ring-shaped body of the seal element 35a becomes compressed and adopts a more oval cross-sectional shape / profile.

[0111] As seen in Figure 2, the projection 35b of the seal element 35a is dimensioned / oriented so as to extend radially away from a centre of its annular or ring-shaped body at an angle inclined or offset from an axis or line (e.g., a generally vertical axis / line as can be understood from Figure 1 and 4) along which engagement between the seal element 35a and the roof structure 15r occurs / progresses in forming the first barrier F1 . The projection 35b extends inclined relative to said vertical axis or line so as to terminate at or near a tangent projecting across the lower most extent of the annular or ring-shaped body of the seal element 35a, and which tangent is generally orthogonal with said vertical axis or line along which the engagement between the seal element 35a and the roof structure 15r occurs / progresses. With specific reference to Figure 2, it will be seen that the projection 35b extends radially from a centre of the annular body in a direction that is biased toward the left-hand portion of the page of Figure 2 - which is in a direction away from the interior region defined by the cross-sectional shape of the cover member 20, and also away from the space S. In this manner, the annular body of the seal element 35a and the projection 35b provide an asymmetrical configuration of the seal element 35a. In establishing the first barrier F1 , it is the distal extent of the projection 35b that makes initial contact with the topside or roof structure 15r of the second container 15. As contact / engagement increases between the seal element 35a and the roof structure 15r, the distal extent of the projection 35b is pushed / forced so that the projection 35b folds toward the side of the body to which the extension of the projection 35b from the annular body is biased or directed towards. As engaging contact continues, the projection 35b and the (now deforming) annular body of the seal element 35a compress (due to the resilient constitution) and both begin to flatten in general compliance with the form / profile of the surface of the roof structure 15r. Flattening continues until the compressed state shown in Figure 1 is reached where the projection 35b clearly presents or faces toward the exterior facing side of the barrier arrangement 5 - this being a side of the first barrier F1 from which prospective ingression of fluid and / or debris will (or is likely to) emanate from in use. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the seal element 35a is selected or configured having a projection 35b that extends from its annular body in a manner that, on engagement with the roof structure 15r, will be biased so as to present / face the exterior side of the first barrier F1 once established (or present directly to prospective ingressing fluid / debris). It is considered that the geometry of the projection 35a and its consequential behaviour during engagement with the roof structure 15r operates to improve the effectiveness of the sealing characteristic of the first barrier F1 by, in at least one aspect, increasing the surface area of the seal element 35a that is in contact with the roof structure 15r.

[0112] The presence of the projection 35b is not essential for the operation of the barrier arrangement 5 as described herein, but is considered to offer prospective advantage in improving the effectiveness of the sealing capability of the first barrier F1. When a single projection 35b is used, orientation in the manner described above would be recommended as a default option. It will be possible for the annular body of the seal element 35a to host a second projection configured so as to extend in a similar manner as the projection 35b, but toward the other side of the annular body of the seal element 35a. Such a configuration would, in effect, provide a symmetrical configuration of the seal element 35a when considering a mirror axis running vertically through the axis of its annular body in alignment with vertical axis / line along which engagement occurs between the seal element 35a and the roof structure 15r. In such an embodiment, and consistent with the behaviour described above, on contact / engagement with the roof structure 15r, the second projection would be pushed so as to fold toward the inward or interior side of the first barrier F1 during its establishment. It is considered that the geometry of the first 35b and second projections and their consequential behaviour during engagement with the roof structure 15r would operate to improve the effectiveness of the sealing characteristic of the first barrier F1 by, in at least one aspect, further increasing the surface area of the seal element 35a that is in contact with the roof structure 15r.

[0113] With reference to Figure 3, the barrier arrangement 5 comprises a second seal arrangement 40 which is sealingly associated or connected with the topside or roof structure (roof structure 15r, as seen in Figure 11) of the second container 15, which roof structure 15r includes upper edge 15a of the second container 15. Such association / connection is achieved so that the second seal arrangement 40 runs or extends along a portion of the length of the second container 15 at or near its upper edge 15a, and, for the embodiment shown, is configured so as to extend proud of the topside / roof structure 15r of the second container 15. In the form shown, the second seal arrangement 40 is configured so as to provide a seal element 40a (formed from a resilient material) in spaced or elevated relation relative to the roof / edge structures of the containers 10, 15. As seen in Figure 1 , the second seal arrangement 40 is arranged to provide the seal element 40a above or in elevated relation relative to the seal element 35a when the barrier arrangement 5 is assembled (as will be described below).

[0114] With reference to Figure 3, the second seal arrangement 40 comprises a support 45 having a base portion 45a, an upright flange portion 50 which provides a distal edge portion 45b. The base portion 45a of the support 45 is sealingly attached with the topside / roof structure 15r of the second container 15 in a way that provides a sealing like barrier (e.g., a fluid / debris barrier) at the connection / interface therebetween that operates to prevent or mitigate the ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris (which could be, for example, established in substantially the same way as the connection between the first tapping block 26 and the topside / roof structure 10r of the first container 10 as described above). The distal edge portion 45b of the support 45 is configured to host or carry the length of the seal element 40a as shown.

[0115] For the embodiment shown, the seal element 40a is also provided in the form of a pinch-weld seal (but could be any appropriate sealing or gasket element configured fit for purpose) as shown in Figure 3, where, in cross section, the seal element 40a has a first portion having two arms providing a U-shaped configuration which snugly receives a portion of the distal edge portion 45b therebetween. As with the operation of the seal element 35a, distal of its two arms, the seal element 40a comprises a second portion providing a generally annular or ring-shaped body (when in an uncompressed state as seen in Figure 3) which deforms under engaging pressure (as will be discussed below) due to its resilient constitution. As seen in Figure 3, and like with the seal element 35a, extending a short distance radially outward from the periphery of the annular body of the seal element 40a is a projection or protrusion 40b (hereinafter, projection 40b) which, on engagement with an opposing surface, operates to predispose the annular body of the seal element 40a to bias toward a compressed state / configuration against the engaging surface in a desired way (as seen in Figure 1) thereby improving sealing efficiency. As will be described below, the annular body of the seal element 40a, on assembly of the barrier arrangement 5, engages with an interior facing wall (see W-l shown in Figure 1) of the cover member 20 in creating a second barrier F2 (which may be configured to serve as a fluid / sealing barrier). As seen in Figure 1 , when the seal element 40a is engaged with a portion of the interior facing wall W-l of the cover member 20, the annular body of the seal element 40a becomes compressed and adopts a more oval cross-sectional shape / profile.

[0116] As seen in Figure 3, the projection 40b of the seal element 40a is dimensioned / oriented so as to extend radially away from a centre of its body at an angle inclined or offset from an axis or line (eg. a vertical line) along which engagement between the seal element 40a and the interior facing wall W-l of the cover member 20 occurs / progresses in forming the second barrier F2. The projection 40b extends so as to terminate at or near a tangent projecting across the upper most extent of the body of the seal element 40a (and which tangent is generally orthogonal with the axis or line along which the engagement between the seal element 40a and the interior facing wall W-l of the cover member 20 occurs / progresses).

[0117] With specific reference to Figure 3, it will be seen that the projection 40b extends radially from a centre of the annular body in a direction that is biased toward the left-hand portion of the page of Figure 3 - which is in a direction away from the space S and the interior region defined when the second barrier F2 is established. In this manner, the annular body of the seal element 40a and the projection 40b provide an asymmetrical configuration of the seal element 40a. In establishing the second barrier F2, it is the distal extent of the projection 40b that makes initial contact with the interior facing wall W-l of the cover member 20. As contact / engagement increases between the seal element 40a and the interior facing wall W-l of the cover member 20, the distal extent of the projection 40b is pushed / forced so that the projection 40b folds toward the side of the body to which the extension of the projection 40b from the body is biased or directed towards. As engaging contact continues, the projection 40b and the (now deforming) annular body of the seal element 40a compress (due to the resilient constitution) and both begin to flatten in general compliance with the form / profile of the surface of the interior facing wall W-l of the cover member 20. Flattening continues until the compressed state shown in Figure 1 is reached where the projection 40b clearly presents or faces toward the exterior side of the second barrier F2 when established (or toward first barrier F1 when established) - this being a side of the second barrier F2 from which prospective ingression of fluid and / or debris may emanate if able to pass through the first barrier F1 . Accordingly, in one embodiment, the seal element 40a is selected or configured having a projection 40b that extends from its body in a manner that, on engagement with the interior facing wall W-l of the cover member 20, will be biased so as to present / face the exterior side of the second barrier F2 once established (or present directly to prospective ingressing fluid / debris). It is considered that the geometry of the projection 40b and its consequential behaviour during engagement with the interior facing wall W-l of the cover member 20 operates to improve the effectiveness of the sealing characteristic of the second barrier F2 (and, consequentially, the effectiveness of the barrier arrangement 5) by, in at least one aspect, increasing the surface area of the seal element 40a that is in contact with the interior facing wall W-l of the cover member 20.

[0118] As noted above in relation to the seal element 35a, the presence of the projection 40b is not essential for the operation of the barrier arrangement 5 as described herein, but is considered to offer prospective advantage in improving the effectiveness of the sealing capability of the second barrier F2. When a single projection 40b is used, orientation in the manner described above would be recommended as a default option. It will be possible for the annular body of the seal element 40a to host a second projection configured so as to extend in a similar manner as the projection 40b, but toward the other side of the annular body of the seal element. Such a configuration would, in effect, provide a symmetrical configuration of the seal element 40a when considering a mirror axis running vertically through the axis of its annular body. In such an embodiment, and consistent with the behaviour described above, on contact / engagement with the interior facing wall W-l of the cover member 20, the second projection would be pushed so as to fold toward the inward or interior side of the second barrier F2 during its establishment. It is considered that the geometry of the first 40b and second projections and their consequential behaviour during engagement with the interior facing wall W-l of the cover member 20 would operate to improve the effectiveness of the sealing characteristic of the second barrier F2 (and consequentially, the effectiveness of the barrier arrangement 5) by, in at least one aspect, further increasing the surface area of the seal element 40a that is in contact with the interior facing wall W-l of the cover member 20.

[0119] In an embodiment, the support 45 is provided as a strip of a single component, but can be provided as a multi-part assembly (as described below and shown in Figure 3).

[0120] For the embodiment shown in the Figures, the support 45 is formed from an assembly of two components comprising lengths of first 48 and second 52 parts but could be provided as a single piece component.

[0121] The first part 48 is provided in the form of a length of a strip of a second tapping block (hereinafter, second tapping block 48), and the second part 52 is provided in the form of a length of an angle section (hereinafter, angle section 52). In one form, the angle section 52 is provided in the form of a 30mm x 30mm x 5mm equal angle section. Like with the first tapping block 26, the second tapping block 48 is intermittently stitch-welded (on both of its sides) to the topside / roof structure 15r of the second container 15 at / near its upper edge 15a and an appropriate sealant used to seal between the formed stitch welds. In this manner, a sealing like barrier (e.g., a fluid / debris barrier) is established at the interface between where the base of the second tapping block 48 and the topside / roof structure 15r at / near the upper edge 15a of the second container 15 connect / meet that operates to prevent or mitigate the ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris (which could be, for example, established in substantially the same way as the connection between the first tapping block 26 and the topside / roof structure 10r of the first container 10 as described above). The association / connection between the second tapping block 48 and the topside / roof structure 15r is established so that the tapping block 48 runs / extends the desired length at / near the upper edge 15a of the second container 15 in sealing association / connection therewith as shown. The skilled reader would be aware of other ways in which such a connection can be achieved that enables a sealing like barrier at the interfacing area to be established.

[0122] In some embodiments, it will be appreciated that the tapping block 48 and the second part 52 of the support 45 may be formed as a single component.

[0123] For the embodiment shown, it will be appreciated that the first 26 and second 48 tapping blocks are of the same general configuration with each having a plurality of holes provided at the upper facing side of the relevant tapping block 26, 48, and the spaced holes (regularly or otherwise as appropriate) along the length of the respective tapping block. Each of the holes are provided with an internal thread for engaging with a respective screw fastener (32, 54). Each of the holes of the tapping blocks 26, 48 may be blind or through holes as considered appropriate.

[0124] The length of the angle section 52 is fastened to the upper facing side of the second tapping block 48 by way of one of its two flanges (flange 52a shown in Figure 3) being seated atop and fastened thereto by bolts or screws (hereinafter, screws 54) at spaced intervals along the length of the second tapping block 48. In one embodiment, the screws 54 are provided in the form of M8 x 25mm hex head screws. Between the angle section 52 and the upper facing side of the second strip of tapping block 26b is provided a strip of a second gasket 58 (formed from a resilient substrate provided in the form of a natural rubber insertion strip, like with the first gasket 28) that serves to assist in providing a sealing like barrier (e.g., a sealed region capable of providing an effective fluid / debris barrier) at the interface of both components. The fastened flange portion of the angle section 52 serves as a washer that clamps down on the gasket 58 during fastening (using screws 54) thereby developing the fluid / sealed barrier. As with the first gasket 26, the second gasket 58 may comprise ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) or any other suitable or equivalent sealing substrate. In one form, like with the first gasket 28, the second gasket 58 is configured so as to be UV stabilised (due to, for example, the nature of its exposure to the sunlight). The elevation of the seal element 40a from the seal element 35a and roof structures of the containers 10, 15 is achieved by the seal element 40a being carried by the upper distal edge portion 45b of the alternate flange (flange portion 50, that which is not seated with the second tapping block 48) of the angle section 52, as shown in Figure 3. In one form, the second gasket 58 is configured so as to be UV stabilised (due to, for example, the nature of its exposure to the sunlight). In one embodiment, for example, the second gasket 58 may be about 3 mm in thickness, with a width of about 25 mm. The skilled reader will be well aware of other substrates suitable for use as a gasket in the context of the present disclosure, as well as the relevant dimensions.

[0125] As with the fastening arrangement using the screws 32, each of the screws 54 may be used with a respective round or annular / ring-shaped washer RW-1 as seen more clearly in Figure 6. As noted above, the use of round washers RW-1 can, however, facilitate the development of localised well points when the screws 54 are tightened to secure the angle section 52 with the second tapping block 48. This can enable water to pool in the formed well point and increases the risk ingress within the sealing interface. An alternative arrangement to the use of the round washers RW-1 can be seen in Figure 12 where dual square shaped washers SW-1 , SW-2 are used in the manner shown. For the arrangement shown, the upper disposed square shaped washer SW-1 is metallic made from an appropriate grade steel, such as for example, stainless steel (e.g., 304 or 315 grade stainless steel), and the lower disposed square shaped washer SW-2 is provided in the form of a rubber seal member. The use of a square geometry for the washers SW-1 , SW-2 is considered to provide for a larger surface area than the conventional round / annular shaped washer, and allows for a greater distribution of load when the screws 54 are placed under tension thereby reducing the risk of creating distortion in the surfaces / materials below when being secured / tightened and subject to compression (due to the securement of the screws 54). Furthermore, the use / addition of the square shaped washer SW-2 in the form of a rubber seal member of substantially the same dimension / geometry has been found to provide a much better performing sealing arrangement as compared to traditional washer arrangements. Thus, use of the dual square shaped washers SW-1 (metallic), SW-2 (rubber insertion seal) in this arrangement have been found to create or improve the sealing arrangement compared to traditional washer arrangements.

[0126] In one form, the distance between the centres of corresponding screws 32, 58 (as shown in Figures 6 and 12) is about 48mm, but this can of course change depending on the situation at hand.

[0127] It will be appreciated that the combination of the second tapping block 48 and the length of the angle section 52 are not essential, as any structural arrangement that functions to provide the seal element 40a vertically spaced above the topside or roof structures of the containers 10, 15 and the seal element 35a (when the barrier arrangement 5 is assembled) can be used in place of the 2-part assembly of the present embodiment.

[0128] It will be seen from Figure 1 that the respective upper faces of the first 26 and second 48 tapping blocks are arranged so as to be at about the same elevation or height above the roof structures 10r, 15r of the respective containers 10, 15 they are associated with. The elevation / height of the first 26, second 48 gasket seals further mitigate risk of water (e.g., pooling water that might accumulate atop the roof / edge structure) and / or dust (and / or other foreign debris) being able to ingress into the space S.

[0129] The barrier arrangement 5 is configured so that, when assembled, the two barriers F1 , F2 (which may be configured as fluid / debris sealing barriers) are completed across or in respect of the space S between the side-by-side positioned containers 10, 15. As can be seen in Figure 1 , the barrier arrangement 5 is configured so that positioning or assembly of the cover member 20 in respect of the second seal arrangement 40 enables (i) an engagement between the topside / roof structure 15r of the second container 15 and the first seal arrangement 35 (via the seal element 35a) hosted or carried by the second edge region 30 of the cover member 20 for establishing the first barrier F1 across or in respect of the space, and (ii) an engagement between the second seal arrangement 40 (via the seal element 40a) and a portion of an interior wall W-l of the extension of the cover member 20 that is intermediate the first 25 and second 30 edge regions for establishing the second barrier F2 across or in respect of the space S - the second seal arrangement 40 being received by the interior region defined by the shape of the cover member 20 during positioning / assembly. The barrier arrangement 5 is configured so that during assembly the respective engagements involve sufficient contact pressure so as to compress the engaging components together to create / establish the sealing properties / characteristics of the barriers F1 , F2. This is due to the resilient nature of the seal elements 35a, 40a as they deform under pressure and increase their respective contact areas against the engaged surfacing of the roof structure 15r of the second container 15 and the interior wall W-l portion of the cover member 20 respectively. This also provides an advantage in that any positional variances or discrepancies that might result from the positioning of the containers 10, 15 relative each can be accommodated while still providing sufficient sealing performance.

[0130] Accordingly, as shown for the embodiment of the barrier arrangement 5 shown in Figure 1 , when assembled or established, the first barrier F1 provides an outer fluid barrier that covers over or across the space S as, for example, a primary fluid / debris barrier. Furthermore, when created or established, the second barrier F2 is operable within or internal of the outer first barrier F1 and cooperates with the outer first barrier F1 in providing, for example, a secondary fluid / debris barrier to or in respect of the space S. As shown in Figure 1 , the second barrier F2 is formed or completed above or in elevated relation relative to the first barrier F1 .

[0131] While each of the wall portions (20a, 20b, 20c) of the cover member 20 are linear / straight in the embodiment shown in the Figures, it will be appreciated that the general concavity of the cover member 20 between the edge regions 25, 30 could be curved or formed of non-linear portions. The dimensioning of the degree of concavity of the cover member 20 may be informed by the geometry of the space between the adjacent containers 10, 15, the desired height of the support 45 above where it connects with the second container 15, the height at which the first edge region 25 of the cover member 20 might sit above the roof structure 10r of the first container 10, and / or any height differential between the heights of the roof structures 10r, 15r of the containers 10, 15. As one example (which is generally consistent with the embodiment shown in the Figures), the length of the third wall portion 20c may be about commensurate with the height the second seal arrangement 40 extends above the roof structure 15r of the second container 15. Furthermore, as another example (which is generally consistent with the embodiment shown in the Figures), as noted above, the length of the third wall portion 20c of the cover member 20 may extend longer (downward) than the first wall portion 20a. This may be generally due to the first edge region 25 of the cover member 20 being configured so as to sit atop the first tapping block 26. Thus, the additional length of the third wall portion 20c (as compared the first wall portion 20a) of the cover member 20 compensates for the height of the first tapping block 26 so that the second edge region 30 can ensure engagement between the seal element 35a and the roof structure 15r of the second container 15.

[0132] For the embodiment of the barrier arrangement 5 described, parallel lengthwise (relative to the containers’ lengthwise direction or axis) alignment of the respective upper edges 10a, 15a of the first 10 and second 15 containers occurs also at the same height. In this manner, the heights of the topside or roof structures 10r, 15r of the respective first 10 and second 15 containers are about level with each other. However, the principles of the present disclosure can be used to accommodate situations where, while the upper edges 10a, 15a are in lengthwise parallel alignment, a differential in height exists between the edges, i.e., the topside or roof structures 10r, 15r of the respective first 10 and second 15 containers are spaced vertically from each other. In such situations, a differential in height between the respective upper edges 10a, 15a of the containers 10, 15 could be by way of the containers having different height dimensions or, if the containers 10, 15 are of like construction, being placed on a differently levelled platform or foundation structure. In such embodiments, the cover member 20 and / or the second sealing arrangement 40 may be configured / shaped (e.g., cross-sectional shape, form / profile) so as to accommodate or account for such a difference or differential in the vertical elevation / height between their respective upper edges 10a, 15a so that the first F1 and second F2 barriers across or in respect of the space S can be established on positioning or assembly of the cover member 20 in respect of the second seal arrangement 40.

[0133] In practice, and with reference to Figure 4, assembly of the barrier arrangement 5 occurs when the cover member 20 (where the second edge region 30 of the cover member 20 is hosting / carrying the first seal arrangement 35) is caused to be positioned in place relative with the second seal arrangement 40 . For the embodiment described involving ISO shipping containers, which can be moved using appropriate lifting equipment, positioning / assembly of the cover member 20 in respect of the second seal arrangement 40 is achieved by way of the first container 10 being positioned relative to the second container 15 in a desired side-by-side relationship in which the respective upper edges 10a, 15a are brought / aligned together in parallel relation at about the same level (vertically). The barrier arrangement 5 is configured so that when the upper edges 10a, 15a are brought into the desired alignment (by moving of the first container 10 relative to the lying second container 15), assembly of the barrier arrangement 5 is completed thereby establishing the two barriers F1 , F2. The first F1 and second F2 barriers protect the space S from ingress of water / debris from the sides and from above. It will be appreciated that opposite ends of the length of the barrier arrangement 5 may be closed by way of any existing corner flashing arrangement(s) (or corner structures of the containers 10, 15), which may extend downwards vertically to cover across the space S between the containers 10, 15. Silicone or other sealing agents may be used to seal between any exposed recesses. One embodiment of an end cap or closing arrangement that closes an end of the barrier arrangement 5 is shown in Figures 7 to 11 .

[0134] An advantage of the barrier arrangement 5 can be seen in the resilient elements of the first 35 and second 40 seal arrangements operate or cooperate during positioning or assembly of the cover member 20 in respect of the second sealing arrangement 40, in developing or establishing the creation or completion of the first F1 and second F2 barriers, so as to also, if required, accommodate any positional variation or discrepancy that might develop between the first 10 and second 15 containers when positioned relative each other.

[0135] Of course, as noted above, the principles of the barrier arrangement 5 are not limited to use with ISO shipping containers, and it will therefore be understood that the principles of the present disclosure can be used with other building / shelter structures (modular or otherwise) that are disposed side-by-side one another. In these cases, the relevant building / shelter structure carrying or hosting the cover member 20 component may not be moveable, but can still avail of the principles of the barrier arrangement 5 of the present disclosure for preventing or mitigating ingress of rain / debris into the space S between the structures hosting respective components of an embodiment of the barrier arrangement 5.

[0136] With reference to Figures 7 to 11 , an embodiment of an end cap 400 is shown which is assembled with a portion of a respective end 415 (only one end of the barrier arrangement 5 is shown in Figures 7 to 11 but the same principles described / shown herein apply equally to the other end of the barrier arrangement) of the cover member 20 so as to substantially close (to the extent possible) the upper portion of the end 415 (see Figures 8 and 9) of the barrier arrangement 5. The end cap 400 can operate in conjunction with a flashing arrangement that closes the remaining (lowermost) portion of the end 415. Alternatively, the skilled reader would appreciate that various ways could be realised that provide embodiments of the end cap 400 that could be configured to close substantially the entire end of the barrier arrangement 5.

[0137] For the embodiment shown, the end cap 400 is configured (as will be described below) so as to be pressed against the end 415 (see Figures 8 and 10) so as to be held therewith substantially by friction. However, the skilled reader will appreciate that other forms of attachment of the end cap 400 with the end 415 of the barrier arrangement 5 can be used, such as for example, various welding techniques, pop riveting methods, adhesive, or other mechanical fastening systems etc.

[0138] The end cap 400 comprises an end wall 405 of planar form that, on assembly with the end 415, aligns substantially in the vertical plane. The end wall 405 has an external facing side 405a and an internally facing side 405b (seen in Figure 8). The end wall 405 comprises a peripheral edge 405c, inward of which a structure 408 extends outward from the internally facing side 405b. The structure 408 is configured so as to receive a portion of the end 415 of the cover member 20 (as shown in Figures 9 and 10).

[0139] With reference to Figures 7 and 8, the structure 408 defines a receiving gap or trench 414 defined by a first wall 410 comprising wall portions 410a, 410b, 410c, 410d, and 410e, and, spaced inward of the first wall 410 relative to the peripheral edge 405c, a second wall 411 comprising wall portions 411a, 411 b, 411c, 411d, and 411e. On assembly of the end cap 400 with the portion of the end 415 of the cover member 20, the gap or trench 414 receives an edge portion of the end 415 so that the first 410 and second 411 walls fit about / over respective corresponding sides of the edge portion of the end 415. As clearly seen in Figures 7 to 11 , the shape of the structure 408 is configured in accordance with the form or profile of that of the cross section of the cover member 20. In this manner, the end cap 400 provides a part closure for use in sealing a portion of the upper portion of the end 415 of the cover member 20. The side or wall portions of the ISO pockets may be used to assist in closing the remaining portion of the end 415 of the barrier arrangement 5 (as described below).

[0140] The first 410 and second 411 walls may be formed of a resilient material suited for establishing a fluid barrier or seal between the end cap 400 and the relevant edge portions of the end 415 with which the end cap 400 connects with. The spacing between the first 410 and second 411 walls may be dimensioned so as to enable a press fit assembly with the end 415 that is suited for establishing a fluid / debris seal / barrier therebetween, as well as for friction-based retention thereto.

[0141] Embodiments of the end cap 400 can be formed in any appropriate manner known to the skilled reader, using any appropriate materials. In the form shown, the end wall 405 may be made from a suitable plastic having suitable material characteristics / properties appropriate for the environment in which the end cap 400 will be operating (e.g., such material properties may comprise sufficient resistance to long periods of exposure to moisture, ultraviolet light, etc). The skilled reader will appreciate that other materials can be used to provide / form the end cap 400 depending on the environment in which the barrier arrangement 5 will be used. For example, in one form, the embodiment of the end cap 400 may be formed using 3D printer technology.

[0142] Figure 11 shows a perspective view of adjacently disposed corner regions of the first 10 and second 15 containers showing their relative positioning when the containers 10, 15 are arranged in a generally side- by-side manner in which respective upper edges 10a, 15a align together in about level parallel relation. Shown are (corner) portions of the end walls 10e, 15e of the respective containers 10, 15 as well as portions of the roof structures 10r, 15r of the respective containers 10, 15. For the embodiment shown, the corresponding corner structures (provided in the form of respective ISO pockets 10p, 15p of the containers) are connected together by way of a bridge-lock arrangement used to engage and lock the respective ISO pockets 10p, 15p (bridge-lock arrangement not shown) of the containers 10, 15 together. It will be appreciated that the alternate respective ends of the containers 10, 15 are arranged in substantially the same manner.

[0143] The barrier arrangement 5 is shown positioned in place relative the roof structures 10r, 15r of the respective containers 10, 15 so as to cover across the inherent space S or gap that exists between the edges / sides of the containers 10, 15. As can be seen or implied in the embodiment shown in Figure 11 , the barrier arrangement 5 is configured so as to extend in the lengthwise direction of the containers 10, 15 from about the corresponding ISO pockets 10p, 15p at the end of the containers 10, 15 shown, right across so as to meet the opposite ISO pockets at the opposite ends (not shown in Figure 11) of the containers 10, 15. As can be seen in Figure 11 , the configuration of the end cap 400 and its engagement with the end 415 of the barrier arrangement 5 is configured so as to close or cover across a portion of the end of the barrier arrangement 5 that is not otherwise closed by way of the meeting of the ends of the barrier arrangement 5 with the ISO pockets 10p, 15p. In this manner, the totality of each end 415 of the barrier arrangement 5 can be substantially closed by way of the end cap 400 as well as engagement of the end 415 of the barrier assembly 5 with portions of the ISO pockets 10p, 15p of both containers 10, 15 (as shown). The skilled reader will appreciate other forms that the end cap 400 can take based at least on the cross-sectional shape of the cover member 20 and how it positions relative the relevant ISO pockets 10p, 15p. It will be appreciated that opposite ends of the barrier assembly 5 need not extend so as to meet respective adjacent ISO pockets, but could end a distance short the respective adjacent ISO pockets in some embodiments.

[0144] It will be appreciated that embodiments of the barrier arrangement 5 consistent with the present disclosure may be formed in which parts or portions of the cover member 20 and the first sealing assembly 35 are prefabricated with or formed integral with the first container 10, and / or parts or portions of the second sealing assembly 40 are prefabricated with or formed integral with the second container 15.

[0145] An example method of assembly where the barrier arrangement 5 is used with ISO shipping containers 10, 15 in the assembly of a composite / modular building or shelter structure is shown in Figures 4 and 5 (for forming structure 300).

[0146] Broadly, in one embodiment, the first edge region 25 of the cover member 20 is sealingly associated or connected with the topside or roof structure 10r of the first container 10 along at / near its upper edge 10a so as to extend along a portion of its length. In the embodiment described such connection is achieved by way of the first tapping block 26 which is stitch welded with the topside or roof structure 10r of the first container 10 along at / near its upper edge 10a at spaced intervals along the length of the first tapping block 26. A bead of silicone (or other suitable sealing agent) is then run along one or both sides of the length of the tapping block 26 (or between the stitch welds) where it meets the topside or roof structure 10r of the first container 10 so as to establish a suitable barrier or seal therebetween capable of resisting ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris (e.g., dust, particulate and the like etc). This connection and sealant application can be done without the need for an operator or fabricator to climb onto the topside / roof structure 10r of the first container 10.

[0147] Once the first tapping block 26 is in place, securement of the first edge region 25 of the cover member 20 is attached atop the first tapping block 26 via the flanged portion 25a with the first gasket 28 being provided therebetween and secured using screws 32 as described above. Similarly, this connection can be done without the need for an operator or fabricator to climb onto the topside / roof structure 10r of the first container 10.

[0148] In some embodiments, a bead of silicone (or other suitable sealing agent) may be run along where the lower edge of the skirt portion 25b becomes proximal (e.g., at about the terminal edge of the skirt portion 25b) with the topside or roof structure 10r of the first container 10, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the barrier therebetween. Additionally, a bead of silicone (or other suitable sealing agent) may be run along between the first gasket 28 and an inside / interior facing surface of the skirt portion 25b adjacent the flanged portion 25a, or at about the transition from one to the other, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the fluid barrier therebetween. This sealant application can be done without the need for an operator or fabricator to climb onto the topside / roof structure 10r of the first container 10.

[0149] The seal element 35a of the first seal arrangement 35 is then assembled and secured to / along the edge of the second edge region 30 so as to be carried thereby. This fixing may be achieved using any appropriate fastening system (e.g., mechanical or adhesive fastening systems, etc).

[0150] As noted, any of the above connections can be made without need for any operator or fabricator to get atop or stand on any topside or roof structure of the container 10.

[0151] The second seal arrangement 40 is sealingly associated or connected with the topside or roof structure 15r of the second container 15 along at / near its upper edge 15a so as to present the second seal element 40a in its elevated position above the roof / edge structures of the containers 10, 15.

[0152] In one embodiment, connection / securement of the second seal arrangement 40 involves the second tapping block 48 being sealingly associated or connected with the topside or roof structure 15r of the second container 15 along at / near its upper edge 15a so as to extend along a portion of its length. Accordingly, similar to the attachment of the first tapping block 26, the second tapping block 48 is stitch welded with the topside or roof structure 15r of the second container 15 along at / near its upper edge 15a at spaced intervals along the length of the second tapping block 48. A bead of a bead of silicone (or other suitable sealing agent) is then run along one or both sides of the length of the second tapping block 48 (or between the stitch welds) where it meets the topside or roof structure 15r of the second container 15 so as to establish a suitable barrier or seal therebetween capable of resisting ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris (e.g., dust, particulate and the like etc). This connection and sealant application can be done without the need for an operator or fabricator to climb onto the topside / roof structure 15r of the first container 15.

[0153] Once the second tapping block 48 is connected, the angle section 52 is fastened to the upper facing side of the second tapping block 48 with the gasket 58 being provided therebetween, and secured in position using screws 54. Securement of the second seal arrangement 40 can be done when the second container 15 is in its desired assembly position, or prior to it being moved into its desired assembly position.

[0154] Similarly, this connection can be done without the need for an operator or fabricator to climb onto the topside / roof structure 15r of the first container 15.

[0155] Again, as noted, any of the above connections can be made without need for any operator or fabricator to get atop or stand on any topside or roof structure of the container 15.

[0156] Once these securements are complete, if not already, the second container 15 can be manoeuvred into its desired position. As seen in Figure 4, the second container 15 (that is already prepared carrying the second seal arrangement 40) is located and secured on / to a foundation structure 100 (which could be a temporary or permanent structure).

[0157] Once the second container 15 is lying as desired, the first container 10 can then be manoeuvred into position relative to the second container 15 using appropriate high load lifting equipment for assembly / completion of the barrier arrangement 5 thereby establishing the first F1 and second F2 fluid barriers. Accordingly, with the first edge region 25 of the cover member 20 connected with the roof structure 10r of the first container 10 (i.e., along a portion of at or near its upper edge 10a), the first seal arrangement 35 is hosted / carried by the second edge region 30, and the second seal arrangement 40 connected with the roof structure 15r of the second container 15 (i.e., along a portion of at or near its upper edge 15a), the first container 10 is then manoeuvred / positioned to its desired resting position on the foundation structure 100 beside the second container 15 (which is already located where needed) as indicated in Figure 4. In this manner, establishment of the first F1 , second F2 barriers of the barrier arrangement 5 can be made without need for any operator or fabricator to get atop or stand on any topside or roof structure of the containers 10, 15.

[0158] In one embodiment, and with specific reference to the Figure 4, with the second container 15 in position (shown in the upper left-hand portion of page of Figure 4), the first container 10 (that carrying the cover member 20) is manoeuvred into the desired side by side position relative to the second container 15, but is initially vertically spaced upwards of the container 15 (as shown in the lower left-hand portion of page of Figure 4) so as to ensure correct alignment of the first container 10 in preparation for its final positioning beside and level (on the foundation structure 100) with the second container 15 which positioning serves to position / assemble the cover member 20 relative the second seal arrangement 40 for establishing the barriers F1 and F2. As indicated in the lower portion of page of Figure 4, on the first container 10 being lowered into position atop the foundation structure 100 to sit immediately beside and level with the second container 15, the first seal arrangement 35 is brought into engagement with the topside or roof / edge structure 15r of the second container 15 thereby establishing the barrier F1 . At the same time, and as indicated in the right-hand portion of page of Figure 4, engagement between the second seal arrangement 40 and a wall portion W-l of the interior wall of the extension of the cover member 20 intermediate the first 25 and second 30 edge regions establishes the second barrier F2. Assembly of the barrier arrangement 5 is then substantially completed to reflect that shown in Figure 1 . In this manner, establishment of the barriers F1 , F2 can be made without need for any operator or fabricator to get atop or stand on any topside or roof structure of the containers 10, 15.

[0159] As noted above, an advantage of the barrier arrangement 5 can be seen in the resilient elements of the first 35 and second 40 seal arrangements operating or cooperating during positioning or assembly of the cover member 20 in respect of the second sealing arrangement 40 to, if needed, accommodate any positional variation or discrepancy that might develop between the first 10 and second 15 containers when positioned relative each other.

[0160] On final assembly of the barrier arrangement 5, a form of labyrinth seal is created that can provide an effective barrier to water / debris entering into the space S between the containers 10, 15. In another form, completion of the barrier arrangement 5 provides a of a flashing arrangement.

[0161] With the containers 10, 15 positioned side-by-side and level they can be secured together using bridgelock arrangements (or any other type of suitable / appropriate mechanical fastening system) engaging adjacent ISO pockets 10p, 15p, as shown / implied in Figure 11 (bridge-lock arrangements are not shown in Figure 11). Similar securement can be completed by way of the lower ISO pockets being secured directly to the foundation structure 100 so as to anchor each container 10, 15 in position.

[0162] It will be appreciated that the foundation structure 100 may not always be required (i.e., its use will usually depend on the application or duty requirements for a given installation project). For example, a suitable foundation upon which the containers 10, 15 containers sit may comprise a levelled concrete pad. The skilled reader will appreciate other types of structures or means by which a suitable foundation can be prepared.

[0163] As noted herein, for situations where the building structures are ISO shipping containers, preparation of the containers 10, 15 with the respective cover member 20 and the second seal arrangement 40 and the establishment of the first F1 and second F2 barriers can be achieved / completed without operator / fabrication workers needing to be on the respective topside or roof structures (e.g., standing), e.g., workers can instead make the required connections (of or involving the cover member 20, the first seal arrangement 35, and the second seal arrangement 40) while standing on ladders. Appropriate lifting equipment can be used to position the cover member 20 (by way of moving the hosting first container 10) in respect of the second seal arrangement 40 hosted by the second container 15 (which is already lying in position).

[0164] Accordingly, an advantage of the barrier arrangement 5 of the present disclosure is that securements of the first tapping block 26 and the first edge region 25 of the cover member 20 with the roof / edge structure of the first container 10 can be completed by a worker from a ladder. The same is the case for securements of the first seal arrangement 35 to the second edge region 30 of the cover member 20, and the second seal arrangement 40 with the upper edge 15a of the second container 15. Both securements to respective containers 10, 15 do not require construction staff needing to be / stand on the roof / edge of either container. In this manner, risk to staff in handling tools and equipment on roof / edge structures at height can be avoided or mitigated. Furthermore, compliance costs and time associated with securing the necessary approvals allowing / authorising such work (e.g., relevant induction sessions etc) can be avoided or mitigated. It will also be appreciated that the barrier arrangement 5 can be readily disassembled when the modular shelter is to be removed and / or relocated. Similarly, even during disassembly of the barrier arrangement 5, there is no need for construction / installation operators / staff to get on top of the roof / edge of the relevant containers.

[0165] Consistent with the above, Figure 5 shows an assembly of five (A, B, C, D, and E) containers assembled in side-by-side relation next to each other for forming a large modular constructed building / shelter complex 300. Barrier arrangements 5-1 , 5-2, 5-3, and 5-4 are used to provide barrier arrangements between containers A-B, B-C, C-D, and D-E respectively. In this assembly, the first placed container is container A, followed by containers B, C, D, and finally E.

[0166] As can be seen in Figure 5, roof structure of the container A near its right-hand upper edge hosts the second seal arrangement 40 of barrier arrangement 5-1 , and roof structure of the container B near its lefthand edge hosts the cover member 20 of barrier arrangement 5-1 . Roof structure of the container B near its right-hand edge hosts the second seal arrangement 40 of barrier arrangement 5-2, and roof structure of the container C near its left-hand edge hosts the cover member 20 of barrier arrangement 5-2. Roof structure of the container C near its right-hand edge hosts the second seal arrangement 40 of barrier arrangement 5-3, and roof structure of the container D near its left-hand edge hosts the cover member 20 of barrier arrangement 5-3. Roof structure of the container D near its right-hand edge hosts the second seal arrangement 40 of barrier arrangement 5-4, and roof structure of the container E near its left-hand edge hosts the cover member 20 of barrier arrangement 5-4.

[0167] In an embodiment, each of the containers A-E may be prepared or arranged in accordance with a specific theme or purpose for forming a broader shelter complex. For example, in the formation of one embodiment of a shelter complex, the containers A-E may be prepared or arranged so as to provide, respectively, an office module, a kitchen module, workstation module, reception module. The skilled reader will appreciate that other building structures or units / modules in a broader shelter complex may be prepared or arranged in accordance with other types of themes or purposes as may be required for a given application / duty requirement.

[0168] The cover member 20 can be formed or shaped so that, on assembly of the barrier arrangement 5, the seal element 40a engages with the portion of the interior facing wall W-l of the cover member 20 between the first 25 and second 30 edge regions when the first 10 container is positioned in respect of the second container 15. The shape / depth of the interior region defining the general concave nature of the shape of the cover member 20 may be informed, at least in part, by the height of the second seal arrangement 40, a height that the first edge region 25 of the cover member is to be supported above the roof structure 10r of the first container 10, and / or any intended / anticipated differential between the heights of the roof structures of the respective containers 10, 15 - for example, as noted above, the cross-sectional shape of the cover member 20 may be configured so as to accommodate a difference between the relative heights of the roof structures of the containers. The skilled reader will appreciate that various shapes and forms (e.g., cross section shapes / forms) of the cover member 20 will be possible while availing of the principles of the present disclosure. The cross-sectional shape of the cover member 20 can be configured with the second seal arrangement 40 (for example, with or informed by the height at which the seal element 40a is provided above the topside or roof structures of the container 10, 15) so that the engagements establishing the barriers F1 , F2 can occur at about the same time as the first container 10 is lowered level with the second container 15 in the desired side-by-side and level (or possibly otherwise) relationship.

[0169] The components of the barrier arrangement 5 may be formed from any materials that are fit for purpose. For example, the cover member 20 may be formed from sheet metal (in one embodiment, for example, having a thickness of about 3 mm) of mild or stainless steels of any appropriate rating. In one example, the cover member 20 may be stainless steel of 304 grade, but could be of any appropriate grade, for example, 316. The first 26 and second 48 tapping blocks could be of, for example, an appropriate grade of stainless steel, or mild-steel with powder coating. The skilled reader will appreciate that many materials can be used to provide the constituent components for the barrier arrangement 5. In one form, a height dimension of the first 26 and second 48 tapping blocks may be between about 20mm to about 30mm, or about 25 mm, but could be any height dimension as might be required for a given circumstance. Furthermore, a width dimension of the first 26 and second 48 tapping blocks may be between about 20mm to about 30mm, or about 25mm to about 28 mm, but could be any width dimension as might be required for a given circumstance. In some embodiments, the first 26 and second 48 tapping blocks could be of different geometries.

[0170] It will be appreciated that the lengths of all components are dimensioned in accordance with or informed by the length of the containers that the barrier arrangement 5 is to be assembled with. Containers used in modular building / shelter construction can be of various sizes and the lengths of the relevant constituents of the barrier arrangement 5 can be sized according to need and purpose as might be required.

[0171] Embodiments of the barrier arrangement 5 have proven effective and have tested in conformance with relevant testing standards, for example AS4420.1 :2016 (Amndt 1-2019).

[0172] In the claims that follow and in the preceding description, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments. Similarly, throughout the preceding description and the claims that follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “include” or variations such as “includes” or “including”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0173] Modifications and variations as would be apparent to a skilled addressee are deemed to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0174] It is to be understood that the following claims are provided by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of what may be claimed in any such future application. Features may be added to or omitted from the provisional claims at a later date so as to further define or re-define the invention or inventions.

Claims

Claims1 . A barrier arrangement for preventing or mitigating ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris into a substantial portion of a length of a space between adjacently disposed first and second building structures or modules arranged in a generally side-by-side manner, the barrier arrangement comprising: a cover member configured extending between first and second spaced apart edge regions thereof, the first edge region of the cover member of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, a first seal arrangement configured of or to be hosted or carried by the second edge region of the cover member, a second seal arrangement of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, wherein, the barrier arrangement is configured so that causing of positioning or assembly of the cover member in respect of the second seal arrangement enables: an engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building module and the first seal arrangement for establishing a first barrier in respect of the space, and an engagement between the second seal arrangement and a portion of the extension of the cover member intermediate the first and second edge regions for establishing a second barrier in respect of the space.

2. A barrier arrangement for preventing or mitigating ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris into a substantial portion of a length of a space between adjacently disposed first and second building structures or modules arranged in a generally side-by-side manner, the barrier arrangement comprising: a cover member configured extending between first and second spaced apart edge regions thereof, the first edge region of the cover member of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, a first seal arrangement configured of or to be hosted or carried by the second edge region of the cover member, a second seal arrangement configured of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge,wherein, the barrier arrangement is configured so that, on causing of positioning or assembly of the cover member in respect of the second seal arrangement by way of moving of the first building structure or module to a generally side-by-side alignment with the second building structure or module in which respective said upper edges align in parallel relation, engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module and the first seal arrangement establishes a first barrier in respect of the space, and engagement between the second seal arrangement and a portion of the extension of the cover member intermediate its first and second edge regions establishes a second barrier in respect of the space.

3. A barrier arrangement for preventing or mitigating ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris into a substantial portion of a length of a space between adjacently disposed first and second building structures or modules arranged in a generally side-by-side manner, the barrier arrangement comprising: a cover member configured extending between first and second spaced apart edge regions thereof, the first edge region of the cover member of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, a first seal arrangement configured of or to be hosted or carried by the second edge region of the cover member, a second seal arrangement of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, the second seal arrangement configured so as to extend or stand proud of the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module, wherein, the barrier arrangement is configured so that causing of positioning or assembly of the cover member in respect of the second seal arrangement enables: an engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building module and the first seal arrangement for establishing a first barrier in respect of the space, and an engagement between the second seal arrangement and a portion of the extension of the cover member intermediate the first and second edge regions for establishing a second barrier in respect of the space.

4. A barrier arrangement for preventing or mitigating ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris into a substantial portion of a length of a space between adjacently disposed first and second building structures or modules arranged in a generally side-by-side manner, the barrier arrangement comprising: a cover member configured extending between first and second spaced apart edge regions thereof, the first edge region of the cover member of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module so as to extend along a portion ofits length at or near its upper edge, a first seal arrangement configured of or to be hosted or carried by the second edge region of the cover member, a second seal arrangement configured of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, the second seal arrangement configured so as to extend or stand proud of the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module, wherein, the barrier arrangement is configured so that, on causing of positioning or assembly of the cover member in respect of the second seal arrangement by way of moving of the first building structure or module to a generally side-by-side alignment with the second building structure or module in which respective said upper edges align in parallel relation, engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module and the first seal arrangement establishes a first barrier in respect of the space, and engagement between the second seal arrangement and a portion of the extension of the cover member intermediate its first and second edge regions establishes a second barrier in respect of the space.

5. A barrier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the cover member is shaped or configured so that engagement between a generally distal portion of the second seal arrangement and the portion of the extension of the cover member intermediate the first and second edge regions is elevated from the engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module and the first seal arrangement with respect to the space.

6. A barrier arrangement of claim 5, wherein the cover member is configured between the first and second edge regions having a wall portion which in part defines a region in which the second seal arrangement is receivable so to enable (i) engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module and the first seal arrangement for forming the first barrier, and (ii) engagement between the distal portion of the second seal arrangement and an interior facing portion of the wall portion of the cover member intermediate the first and second edge regions on the cover member positioned or assembled in respect of the second seal arrangement or on the first building structure or module caused to be brought into side-by-side level alignment with the second building structure or module for forming the second barrier.

7. A barrier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first barrier completes an outer barrier across or in respect of the space, and the second barrier completes an inner barrier across or in respect of the space internal of or within the first barrier.

8. A barrier arrangement any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein extension of the cover member between its first and second edge regions and a height of the extension of the second seal arrangement proud of the topside / roof structure of the second building structure or module are configured so asto enable establishment or completion of the first and second barriers on the cover member being positioned or assembled in respect of the second seal arrangement or as the first building structure or module is caused to be brought into side-by-side level alignment with the second building structure or module.

9. A barrier arrangement of any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the barrier arrangement is configured so that positioning or assembly of the cover member in respect of the second sealing arrangement comprises the first building structure or module being lowered to the side-by-side and level alignment adjacent the second building structure or module, the lowering of the first building structure or module bringing (i) the first seal arrangement into engagement with the roof structure of the second building structure or module and (ii) the portion of the extension of the cover member into engagement with the distal portion of the second seal arrangement thereby establishing the first and second barriers.

10. A barrier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first and second seal arrangements comprise respective lengths of first and second seal elements.11 . A barrier arrangement of claim 10, wherein the barrier arrangement is configured so that the first seal element is carried by the second edge region of the cover member along a substantial portion of its length, and the second seal element is carried by a distal portion of the second seal arrangement.

12. A barrier arrangement of claim 10 or claim 11 , wherein the first and second seal arrangements each comprise a respective resilient element enabling the first and second barriers, when formed, to operate as a fluid seal or barrier.

13. A barrier arrangement of claim 12, wherein the resilient elements of the first and second seal arrangements operate or cooperate during positioning or assembly of the cover member in respect of the second sealing arrangement so as to accommodate a positional variation or discrepancy between the alignment of the first and second building structures or modules relative to each other.

14. A barrier arrangement of claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the second seal element is supported in spaced or elevated relation from the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module by a length of a first support element sealingly associated or connected therewith, which sealing association or connection is configured so as to provide a fluid / foreign debris barrier where the first support element connects with the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module, the second seal element being carried by a distal edge of the first support element.

15. A barrier arrangement of claim 14, wherein the first support element comprises first and second parts, whereby the first part is sealingly associated or connected with the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module so as to provide a fluid / debris barrier where the first part connects therewith, and the second part is fastened atop the first part, the second seal elementbeing carried at a distal edge of the second part.

16. A barrier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein, the barrier arrangement is configured so that, on sealing association or connection of the first edge region of the cover member with the topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module, the first edge region of the cover member is supported in spaced relation from the topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module by way of a length of a second support element.

17. A barrier arrangement of claim 16, wherein the length of the second support element is secured with the topside or roof structure of the first building structure of the module so as to provide a fluid / debris barrier where the second support element connects therewith.

18. A barrier arrangement of any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein a third seal element is provided between lengths of the first and second parts of the first support element, and a fourth seal element is provided between lengths of the second support element and the first edge region of the cover member.

19. A barrier arrangement of claim 18, wherein respective heights of the first part of the first support element and the second support element are dimensioned to be about the same.

20. A barrier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 19 when dependent on claim 10, wherein the cover member is of generally concave like form and shaped in its extension between the first and second edge regions so as to define an interior wall portion that engages with the second seal element of the second sealing arrangement so as to enable the establishment or completion of the second barrier on positioning or assembly of the cover member in respect of the second sealing arrangement.21 . A barrier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 20 when dependent on claim 10, wherein the cover member is formed or shaped reminiscent of a concave channel section having a depth which in part defines an interior region enabling the second seal element to engage with the interior wall portion of the cover member between the first and second edge regions when the cover member is positioned or assembled in respect of the second seal arrangement for establishing the second barrier.

22. A barrier arrangement of any one of claims 16 to 21 , wherein the first edge region of the cover member is configured so as to provide a skirt portion, which skirt portion is configured to overhang or cover substantially across the interface between the second support element and the first edge region.

23. A barrier arrangement of claim 22, wherein a portion of the cover member adjacently inward of the skirt portion is formed so as to sit substantially flat against the fourth seal element when assembled therewith for fastening with the second support element.

24. A barrier arrangement of any one of the preceding claims when dependent on claim 10, wherein the first seal element comprises a first portion configured so as to enable engagement with the second edge region of the cover member, and the second seal element comprises a first portion configured so as to enable engagement with the distal edge of the second part of the first support element.

25. A barrier arrangement of claim 24, wherein the first portion of the first seal element is configured having parallel spaced apart arm portions between which is configured receivable of a portion of the second edge region of the cover member so as to be carried thereby.

26. A barrier arrangement of claim 24 or claim 25, wherein the first portion of the second seal element is configured having parallel spaced apart arm portions between which is configured receivable of a portion of the distal edge of the second part of the first support element so as to be carried thereby.

27. A barrier arrangement of any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein the first seal element comprises a second portion adjacent its first portion, the second portion configured having a body, the second portion further comprising a projection configured so as to extend radially outward of the body so that its distal extent engages the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module as the first barrier is being established in a manner such that the projection is biased toward a direction or side of the barrier arrangement from which fluid / debris is likely or reasonably expected to emanate from as the engagement progresses in forming the first barrier, or the projection extends from the body of the first seal element so as to be biased away from the space in the forming o the first barrier.

28. A barrier arrangement of any one of claims 24 to 27, wherein the projection of the first seal element extends radially away from its body at angle from an axis or line along which engagement between the first seal element and the roof structure of the second building structure or module occurs in forming the first barrier.

29. A barrier arrangement of any one of claims 24 to 28, wherein the second seal element comprises a second portion adjacent its first portion, the second portion configured having a body, the second portion further comprising a projection configured so as to extend radially outward of the body so that its distal extent engages the portion of the extension of the cover member as the second barrier is being established in a manner such that the projection is biased toward a direction, side the first barrier, and / or side of the barrier arrangement from which fluid / debris is likely or reasonably expected to emanate from as the engagement progresses in forming the second barrier, or the projection extends from the body of the second seal element so as to be biased away from the space in the forming of the second barrier.

30. A barrier arrangement of any one of claims 24 to 29, wherein the projection of the second seal element extends radially away from its body at angle from an axis or line along which engagementbetween the second seal element and the portion of the extension of the cover member occurs in forming the second barrier.31 . A barrier arrangement of any one of claim 10 to 30, wherein the first and second seal elements comprise pinch-weld seals.

32. A barrier arrangement of any one of claim 18 to 31 , wherein the third and fourth seal elements are strips of a resilient substrate, or a strip of a gasket element or like substrate.

33. A barrier arrangement of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the barrier arrangement provides a labyrinth seal.

34. A barrier arrangement of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the barrier arrangement provides a flashing arrangement.

35. A barrier arrangement of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a portion of a side wall of the cover member leading to its second edge region is shaped so as to align generally with a vertical plane.

36. A barrier arrangement of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a portion of the wall of the extension of the cover member intermediate the first and second edge regions is shaped so as to align generally with a horizontal plane.

37. A barrier arrangement of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover member is formed or shaped so that the portion of the extension of the cover member intermediate the first and second edge regions is elevated from its first and second edge regions on the cover member being assembled in respect of the second seal arrangement.

38. A barrier arrangement of any one of the preceding claims when dependent on claim 15, wherein the first part of the first support element is a length of a first tapping block.

39. A barrier arrangement of any one of the preceding claims when dependent on claim 16, wherein the second support element is a length of a second tapping block.

40. A barrier arrangement of any one of the preceding claims when dependent on the relevant of claim 38 or claim 39, wherein the lengths of the first and / or second tapping blocks are formed so as to provide an elongate block or strip having a plurality of holes spaced from one another provided at one side of the block / strip, the or each hole provided with an internal thread suitable for threaded engagement with a mechanical fastener carrying a complimentary thread.41 . A barrier arrangement of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second building structures or modules are ISO shipping containers.

42. A barrier arrangement of claim 41 , wherein the barrier arrangement is configured so as to, when assembled, extend between corresponding ISO pockets spaced in respect of an upper edge of one or both first, second ISO shipping containers.

43. A barrier arrangement of claim 42, wherein respective ends of the barrier arrangement are operable with a respective cap or closure means, the respective cap or closure means configured engageable with a portion of the relevant end of the barrier arrangement so as to cover across the portion of the relevant end.

44. A barrier arrangement of claim 43, wherein an end of the barrier arrangement is operable with a cap or closure means, the cap or closure means configured so as to cover across a portion of the end, and the barrier arrangement is configured or positioned so that any portion of the end of the of the barrier arrangement remaining open is substantially closed by way of abutting against a portion of one or more respective corner structures of one or both first, second ISO shipping containers.

45. A barrier arrangement of claim 44, wherein a respective corner structure of the first, second ISO shipping containers is an ISO pocket of the relevant ISO shipping container.

46. A method for preventing or mitigating ingress of fluid and / or foreign debris into a substantial portion of a length of a space between adjacently disposed first and second building structures or modules arranged in a generally side-by-side manner in which respective upper edges align together in about parallel relation, the method comprising, the method comprising: providing components of a barrier arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 45, sealingly associating or connecting the first edge region of the cover member with a topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, sealingly associating or connecting the second seal arrangement with a topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, positioning or assembling the cover member in respect of the second seal arrangement so as to cause engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building module and the first seal arrangement carried by the second edge region for establishing a first barrier in respect of the space, and engagement between the second seal arrangement and a portion of the extension of the cover member intermediate the first and second edge regions for establishing a second barrier in respect of the space.

47. A method of assembling a barrier arrangement for preventing or mitigating ingress of fluid and / or debris into a substantial portion of a length of a space between adjacently disposed first andsecond building structures or modules arranged in a generally side-by-side manner, the method comprising, the method comprising: providing components of a barrier arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 45, sealingly associating or connecting the first edge region of the cover member with a topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, sealingly associating or connecting the second seal arrangement with a topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near its upper edge, positioning or assembling the cover member in respect of the second seal arrangement by way of moving of the first building structure or module to a generally side-by-side alignment with the second building structure or module in which respective said upper edges align together in about parallel relation, for causing engagement between the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module and the first seal arrangement carried by the second edge region for establishing a first barrier in respect of the space, and engagement between the second seal arrangement and a portion of the extension of the cover member intermediate the first and second edge regions for establishing a second barrier in respect of the space.

48. A method according to claim 46 or claim 47, wherein the first building structure or module is a first shipping container and the second building structure or module is a second shipping container, the method comprising positioning the second shipping container on a foundation or platform in a desired position.

49. A method according to claim 48, comprising positioning the first shipping container adjacent but elevated from the second shipping container.

50. A method according to claim 49, comprising lowering the first shipping container to the foundation or platform so as so that both shipping containers are side-by-side in parallel relation and in generally level alignment with each other.51 . A method according to claim 50, comprising connecting proximal or adjacent corner structures of respective first and second shipping containers together using any of: a mechanical fastening system, a bridge-lock fastening system.

52. A method according to any one of claims 49 to 51 , comprising connecting the first and second shipping containers to the foundation or platform.

53. A method according to any one of claims 40 to 52, wherein sealing association or connection of thefirst edge region of the cover member with the first building structure or module is undertaken by an operator not standing on the topside or roof structure of the first building structure or module.

54. A method according to any one of claims 46 to 53, wherein sealing association or connection of the second sealing arrangement with the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module is undertaken by an operator or worker not standing on the topside or roof structure of the second building structure or module.

55. A building structure or module comprising a cover member arranged according to the cover member of the barrier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 45, a first edge region of the cover member of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near one of its upper edge.

56. A building structure or module comprising a support element arranged according to the second support element of the barrier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 45 when dependent on claim 14, the support element of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near one of its upper edge.

57. A building structure or module comprising a fluid / debris barrier arranged according to the second seal arrangement of the barrier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 45, the fluid / debris barrier of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near one of its upper edges.

58. A building structure or module comprising a support element arranged according to the first part of the first support element of the barrier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 45 when dependent on claim 13, the support element of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near one of its upper edges.

59. A building structure or module comprising a cover member arranged according to the cover member of the barrier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 45, a first edge region of the cover member of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near a first of its upper edges, the building structure or module further comprising a fluid / debris barrier configured according to the second seal arrangement of the barrier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 45, the fluid / debris arrangement of or sealingly associated or connected with the topside or roof structure of the building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near a second of its upper edges.

60. A building structure or module comprising a support element of or sealingly associated or connected with a topside or roof structure of the building structure or module so as to extend alonga portion of its length at or near a first of its upper edges, the support element configured for supporting an edge region of a cover member according to the cover member of the barrier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 45, the building structure or module further comprising a further support element arranged according to the first part of the first support element of the barrier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 45 when dependent on claim 15, the further support element of or sealingly associated or connected with the topside or roof structure of the building structure or module so as to extend along a portion of its length at or near a second of its upper edges, the further support element configured for supporting a seal element in spaced relation from the second upper edge.61 . An assembly of more than one building structures or modules arranged in a generally side by side and level alignment having a fluid and / or debris barrier provided across a length of a space therebetween, the fluid and / or debris barrier being arranged according to the barrier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 45.

62. An assembly of more than one building structures or modules comprising: at least one first building structure or module arranged according to the building structure or module of any one of claims 55 to 56, or claim 59. at least one second building structure or module arranged according to the building structure or module of any one of claims 57 to 58, or claim 60.

63. A labyrinth seal assembly for establishing a fluid and / or debris seal across or in respect of a length of a space between adjacently disposed respective upper edges of topside or roof structures of first and second building structures or modules arranged in a generally side-by-side manner, the labyrinth seal assembly configured according to the barrier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 45.

64. A building or shelter structure comprising an assembly according to claim 61 or 62.

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