A CUSTOMISABLE BUILDING ARRANGEMENT

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a building arrangement comprising: a column within a surrounding living space, the column providing a hub configured such that external services may be routed through the column, the external services comprising one or more of water, electricity, gas, sewage and data connection; the building arrangement further comprising: one or more moveable modules, attachable to the hub, wherein the one or more attached modules may be moved in contact with the hub to change their arrangement in the living space. The invention provides an easily configurable smart home arrangement which allows for unit to be replaced and updated when required without the significant cost and time associated with upgrading a conventional home.

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Description
TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a building arrangement, in particular a “smart” home arrangement, in which the layout of the building may be customised.

BACKGROUND

Current housing has not changed in a significant way in the past 100 years. Although the construction industry has seen certain advances in building materials and techniques, the general approach to the structure and layout of residential buildings and the building process itself has remained, to a large extent, unchanged. This established process is still very slow, costly and is now struggling to support the changing needs of home buyers and developers driven by a number of important market factors.

Firstly, the rapid pace of technological development during this period has meant users now demand a much greater degree of sophistication in home technology. By 2020 there is expected to be 50 billion devices connected to the Internet of Things (IoT), linking home technology devices together to enhance the way in which a user interacts with their home and allowing an increased personalisation of their home environment. For example, smart heating, lighting, security systems and power monitoring are now widely available, allowing automation and adaptability of home services to a user's needs. However, despite the smart technology itself being widely available, the incorporation of such technology into the average home has been limited. One major barrier is that the cost of such equipment and that associated with integration and maintenance in existing homes is still prohibitively high for the average home owner.

Traditionally, home builders have approached construction and technology as two distinct aspects of the home. Current “smart” home technology generally involves retrofitting new technology to existing buildings, interfacing new devices with existing systems which were never designed for this purpose. For example, the arrangement of existing incoming utilities such as water, gas and the distribution of electrics may limit the extent to which new smart technology may be integrated into a home. Similarly conventional building materials and the room layout may affect the interaction of devices across the home. Therefore, although there is a demand for such “smart” home products, the barriers related to installing these devices in existing housing are prohibiting significant uptake in the market. There is accordingly a need for a new approach to home building which facilitates integration with current and future smart home technology.

Secondly, the home increasingly has to support a greater variation in activities which current building practices and home layouts do not adequately cater for. This is true both in terms of the number of requirements a home must provide at any one time—for example, home working, entertaining, exercise in addition to conventional living spaces—and the change in requirements over time, for example as the family grows or to support periodic changes in working patterns between the home and the office. Furthermore these requirements of a home may be very different depending on the occupant and so vary from household to household. Current practices of constructing uniform residential buildings often do not support this variation in the provisions required of a home. Furthermore the time and cost involved in renovating, restructuring or adapting buildings means it is a significant undertaking to alter existing homes to meet the needs of a user over time.

Data shows that currently the average time spent between moving house is increasing—likely partially due to the rising expense of purchasing a new home. Now more than ever a single home must therefore be able to support the change in requirements over a longer time period. Similarly, with more people requiring more varied use of their home, a residential building may have to provide a working environment, entertainment space and privacy interchangeably over a shorter time scale. This is not a primary consideration in the building of conventional homes which are constructed for longevity, aiming to provide a durable single layout. There is accordingly a further need for a new approach to home building and renovation to support the greater variation in requirements of the home.

A further possible reason for the increasing average time between moving homes is the cost, time and effort associated with moving house. This is particularly true with smart homes when the previously installed technology has to be reinstalled at the new property and the previously purchased devices may not be compatible with the new building. A great degree of effort must therefore be expended to equip the new house with the technology and configure it to the desired settings to meet the requirements in the new property. There is accordingly a related need for a building arrangement which makes the process of moving house more straightforward and less costly and time consuming.

Thirdly, an increasing awareness of the environmental impact of our daily lives has resulted in a demand for housing and home technology that allows users to monitor and mitigate this impact. Conventional homes and building materials are often not focussed on efficient use of energy and as such are limited in the degree to which they may be modified to reduce their carbon footprint. There is a demand for homes to be built with a focus on mitigating the environmental impact of daily life both through the choices made in the building process and the integration of green technology.

A fourth factor motivating a change in approach to conventional home building and renovation is driven by both the home buyer and a motivation for developers. In the conventional approach to home building, contact with the original developer generally ends at the point of sale, after which the user must develop or modify aspects of the building themselves, via time consuming and costly projects with various contractors. There is a need for a new approach in which the user has more of a role in developing their house to their own specific requirements. Furthermore this process must be simplified with homes built with a view to future changes and renovation. From the perspective of the original developer, it is also of interest to maintain a relationship with the buyer to provide the upgrades to the building periodically as the user's needs change.

Considering these market factors, there accordingly exists a need for a home building arrangement which enables increased integration with smart technology whilst managing costs for the user. There is a further need for a home arrangement which supports varied use of the home and may be customised in a straightforward and cost effective manner to support changes in requirements both in the long term and short term. A related need exists in providing a home arrangement which makes the process of moving house more straightforward. A further need exists in that a home arrangement must be designed to enhance efficient use of energy and reduce the buildings carbon footprint. Finally there is a need for a home arrangement built to a standard which is easy and cost effective to update and renovate, while allowing the occupant to play an active role in the process.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention seeks to provide a building arrangement in which the incoming services are arranged such that smart technology may be readily integrated in a cost effective manner and in such a way as to be easily updated with future improvements to current devices. A further important aim of the present invention is to provide a building arrangement in which the room layout is customisable such that it may be modified on a day-to-day basis by the residents. It is intended that this may be achieved by straightforward action of the user such that the various areas of the living space may be modified to the current requirements of that particular time. A related aim is that the present invention should provide a building arrangement which is easy to update and provides a standard framework in which new components may be developed by third parties to integrate and renovate the home. The present invention further seeks to provide an energy efficient building arrangement with a reduced carbon footprint.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a column within a surrounding living space, the column providing a hub comprising a conduit configured such that external services may be routed through the column, the external services comprising one or more of water, electricity, gas, sewage and data connection; and one or more moveable modules, attachable to the hub, wherein the one or more attachable modules may be moved while attached to the hub to change their arrangement in the living space; wherein one or more of the moveable modules are configured to connect with one or more of the external services via their attachment to the hub and are moveable while maintaining a connection to the external services via their attachment.

With the above building arrangement according to the present invention, the column provides a conduit for all external services entering the building. This allows a common hub for all services allowing easy connection to all components of the building in the surrounding living space. Furthermore since all external utilities are routed through a common location, the installation of further smart home technology is facilitated allowing the control and management of the delivery of the services from a single location. Similarly, existing smart technology is straightforward to access and upgrade allowing technology to be regularly updated to keep pace with the rapid development of smart home technology.

Preferably the column is provided at a substantially central location in the living space, allowing easy access to the service hub from all sides of the column.

It is advantageous if all external services, such as water, gas, electricity, waste water, sewage and internet connection are routed via the hub. The connection of the services may then be distributed throughout the building via connection with the hub. In this way, central control and management of the use of the services may be provided in a single location, for example via a control unit in the hub. The control unit may facilitate monitoring and control of the use of each service, allowing the use of the services to be adapted and efficiently controlled.

By providing moveable modules which interface with the central hub, the layout of the living space may be customised by movement of the modules to increase and decrease the amount of living area devoted to particular functions. In this way, the layout of the rooms is flexible and may be changed to meet the changing needs of an occupant. For example a bathroom module and a kitchen module may be moveable around the central hub to change their orientation in the living space. For example they may be moved around the hub toward each other to a similar area to increase an area devoted to entertaining when required or they may be moved to enlarge an office area when home working space is required. The movement of the modules is preferably facilitated by their connection to the hub, allowing straightforward movement of the modules while providing structural support.

The moveable modules are configured to connect to one or more external services routed through their attachment to the hub. Preferably the moveable modules have one or more of an electrical outlet configured to connect to an electrical supply routed via the hub; a water outlet configured to connect to a water supply routed via the hub; a sewage inlet configured to connect to a sewage outlet routed via the hub; a gas outlet configured to connect to a gas supply routed via the hub; and a data point configured to connect to a data connection routed via the hub.

In this way the moveable modules may utilise the services to provide the various functionality required of conventional rooms. For example a bathroom module may connect to the water, sewage and electrics to provide the necessary washing, toilet and lighting facilities. A kitchen module may connect to the gas, electric and water services routed through the hub to provide lighting, cooking and washing facilities for example.

The modules may be moved while connected to one or more external services routed through the hub. In this way a module may be moved to a required location in a straightforward manner without any need to disconnect or alter the connections to the external services. In some examples the connection of services may be via their attachment to the hub column.

The building arrangement of the present invention may be installed in an existing building or it may be part or a purpose built construction. In this way the hub and moveably modules may be retrofitted to a homeowners existing home with the existing service lines adapted to run through the hub. Preferably the building arrangement is a purpose built construction with the hub forming a central column around which the walls, floor and ceiling of the home are built.

The column may take any cross-sectional shape but preferably the column is circular in cross section such that the attached moveable modules may move in a straightforward manner via rotation about the hub.

Preferably movement of the modules about the hub column is provided by a central rotating joint inside the column; and a rotating arm for each moveable module, wherein each rotating arm is connected to the rotating joint at the centre of the column and extends to the external side of the column to connect to the moveable module, such that rotation of the arm about the central rotating joint provides the rotation of the module around the hub. In preferable embodiments the rotating joint in around or below the floor level of the living space, with the arms extending through the column wall above floor level or passing under floor level and connecting with the modules. In this way the arms may be substantially concealed and the internal space of the hub may be utilised. Where there are multiple modules the rotating arm of each may be connected in a vertically displaced position to the rotating joint such that they may rotate independently. The rotating arms may pass through the hub walls via circumferential slots in the hub column to allow them to connect to the modules on the outer side. Preferably the movement of the modules may be provided by actuators configured to drive the rotating arms about the central rotating joint. In this way a resident may control the movement of the modules between orientations using a control device. The weight of the modules may be supported by omnidirectional bearings or wheels for example.

Preferably the building arrangement further comprises a service line for each of the external services routed through the hub. Preferably the moveable modules are configured to connect with one or more of the external incoming services via a service line for carrying each external service, the service line connected to a main supply at a first inlet end within the column and running along the rotating arm to a connection with a corresponding service outlet of the moveable module at the second, outlet end. This allows the modules to remain connected to the services via the rotating arm as they move around the hub.

In certain preferable embodiments one or more of the service lines comprises: a fixed portion configured to connect to the mains supply at one end, the second end extending to meet the rotating joint; one or more rotating arm portions which connect to the corresponding outlet of the moveable module at one end and extend along the rotating arm to meet the rotating joint at the other end; and one or more rotating connection portions which connect the fixed portion to a rotating portion, wherein the rotating connection portion is configured to allow the portions to rotate relative to one another whilst maintaining a sealed connection to provide the passage of the service. This arrangement allows rotation of the portion of the service line which connects to the hub along the arm, while the fixed portion remains stationary such that it may connect to the mains.

Preferably one or more of the service lines comprises: a flexible tube extending from a connection to the main supply of the service, along the rotating arm to the corresponding outlet in the moveable module, wherein the length and flexibility of the tube is such that a connection between the outlet and mains supply is maintained as the arm rotates. In this way, the service line may remain connected to the moveable module as it rotates, the displacement of the module facilitated by sufficient slack and flexibility in the service line allows a straightforward construction. The tube may be fully flexible or a portion, for example the portion running along the arm, may be flexible with the initial length a fixed connection.

In certain embodiments the building arrangement further comprises a rain water collector supported above the column. This may provide a water reservoir or be connected to a separate reservoir unit. This allows rain water to be harvested above the hub and routed into the hub to be connected to the water systems, for example a grey water system.

In preferable embodiments the building arrangement further comprises a foundation unit comprising a support base with a predetermined configuration of connection points to which the main supply of external services may be connected, the connection points connecting to the service lines. This may provide structural support to the hub. Furthermore the arrangement of connections allows easy connection to the mains in a repeatable process. Connection of the mains services to the building arrangement is therefore straightforward. Preferably the hub column may be formed from two cap rings, connected by columns or beams with the intervening spaces filled with an interconnecting array of tubes and nodes to provide the wall structure of the hub. In this way a lightweight high strength and easy to assemble hub structure is provided. Preferably a purpose built building arrangement may be constructed by positioning a series of radial beams around the column to define the surrounding structure of the building arrangement. Two arrays of radial beams may be provided, one emanating around each end cap ring, to provide ceiling and floor support. In this way the radial beams provide support to the structure but also may be used to distribute the data/electricity cables throughout the building via routing of cables along them. Upper and lower beams may be connected by pillars at the periphery of the building.

This provides the structure of the building in a straightforward to assemble manner which is much more cost and time effective compared to conventional housing.

In preferably embodiments a central control unit is provided in the hub which manages the supply of services. Preferably this is connected to a metering device which measures the amount of each service being used. Preferably the control unit is further connected to a device controller which controls one or more of movement of the moveable modules; lighting units; audio visual equipment; temperature settings; and security devices; wherein the device controller is connected to the control unit. The control unit is preferably configured to receive data from one or more sensors configured to measure one or more of temperature, humidity, motion, fire, security, air constituents; wherein the data output by the sensors is sent to the control unit and the control unit is configured to use the device controller to control one or more devices in response to the received data. Preferably a user interface is provided to allow, for example, configuration of the control unit and access to data.

The hub may preferably be hollow to provide an internal room, such as a media room, with audio visual equipment and access to the control unit and a display. In this way the hub further provides a private room for a resident to enjoy media, view data and control all aspects of the home system.

In a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a customisable building arrangement comprising a central cylindrical column within a surrounding living space; one or more modular rooms; wherein the modular rooms are rotatably engaged with the column such that the arrangement of the rooms within the living space may be varied by rotating the one or more room modules around the central column. In this way, the arrangement of the home may be varied to support the changing requirements of the home. For example the modular rooms may comprise a kitchen module comprising cooking facilities and a sink, and a bathroom module comprising washing facilities, such that the bathroom and kitchen module may be rotated together to provide a large open living space. The rotation of the modules may be provided by one or more rotating arms, supported by a rotating joint in the centre of the column to provide straightforward reorientation of the modular rooms. The provision of all external services through the column of this aspect is optional.

In a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a software platform for online purchasing of modular smart home components, the platform comprising an online environment in which third parties can upload details of modular smart home components, built to a common standard; wherein a user can access the online environment, enter details of their smart home, and browse and purchase compatible smart home modules. Such a platform allows a home owner to play an active role in development of their home, through the use of standards to which modules are built, allowing them to select and purchase modules which will connect within their smart home with very little labour required. This platform is analogous to an “app store” in which third parties develop modules, for example room modules such as bathroom, kitchen, bedroom, office modules, which are compatible with a certain format of a hub of a smart home.

In a further aspect there is provided a smart home control system comprising: a central control unit; a conduit through which services are routed into the smart home, the services comprising one or more of water, electricity, gas, sewage and data; a smart metering unit configured to manage and monitor the supply of the services through the conduit into the smart home; wherein the control unit is configured to receive data from the smart metering unit regarding the use of the services. The control unit may further be configured to control the metering unit to manage the delivery of the utility services, to control the quantity and distribution of the services to the various components of the home. Since the external services are routed into the smart home via a single conduit, a single smart metering unit, under the control of the central control unit, may effectively monitor and manage the distribution of all the services throughout the home. In this way an increased efficiency in the use of services may be achieved.

The home control system may further comprise a service storage unit comprising means to store each of the incoming services, the service storage unit connected to the smart metering unit, where the smart metering unit is further configured to control the amount of each service being stored and those being delivered through the conduit to the required outlets within the smart home. This further increases the efficient use of services since certain utilities may be stored when not required. The storage units may be supplemented by home generated energy, for example from wind and solar generation and by rain water harvesting.

The home control system may further comprise one or more sensors configured to measure predetermined parameters, for example light, temperature, utility storage, fire, security. The home control system may further comprise a device controller configured to control one or more components of the smart home, for example, audio visual devices, moveable room modules, lighting systems, temperature/climate systems, window shades, access, security and data distribution. The control unit may receive signals from the sensors and control the device controller to adjust the various devices in response to the received data.

The home control system may further comprise one or more user interfaces connected to the central control unit such that a user may control the central control unit to manage the storage and usage of services/utilities and/or the control of the devices.

In a further aspect of the invention there is provided a building construction method comprising the steps of: installing a cylindrical foundation unit; installing a hub column upon the foundation unit; installing two aligned arrays of radial beams, an upper array at the top of the column and a lower array at the base of the hub column; connecting the distal ends of corresponding upper and lower beams together via pillars; and installing ceiling panels upon the top radial beams and floor panels on the lower radial beams. Using this construction method, a smart home can be constructed in a much shorter time period and much more cost effectively in comparison with conventional building construction processes. Furthermore the column provides a central conduit through which external utility services may be routed into the centre of the home. The radial beams allow for services, for example electricity and data, to be routed along them, extending radially from the hub to allow easy access in all areas of the home. The foundation unit may comprise a predefined arrangement of connection points to which the mains supply of services may be connected, the connection points connectable to the internal services lines bringing the services through the hub for distribution though the home. In this way, the foundation unit provides a standardised connection arrangement to which the mains utilities can be readily connected.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is an internal perspective view of an embodiment of the building arrangement according to the present invention;

FIG. 2 schematically illustrates the internal structure of an embodiment of the building arrangement according to the present invention;

FIGS. 3A and 3B schematically illustrate the movement of the movable modules;

FIGS. 4A and 4B schematically illustrate the movement mechanism and connection of utilities within the hub;

FIGS. 5A and 5B shown an external and internal view of a foundation unit according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 6A to 6E schematically illustrate the assembly of a building arrangement according to the present invention;

FIG. 7A is a schematic network diagram showing the home control system of an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7B illustrates the control software for the building arrangement according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 shows a plan view of an embodiment including a media room within the hub;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a kitchen module according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 10A and 10B shows an external and internal view of a bathroom module according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 11A to 11C are plan views showing possible additional or alternative moveable modules;

FIGS. 12A to 12H show further possibilities for moveable modules;

FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate how a housing arrangement according to the present invention can be expanded.

 DETAILED DESCRIPTION Overview of the Invention

The present invention is an important core component to a proposed new approach to smart-home building, development and renovation. Conventionally home-builders approach construction and technology as two, separate aspects of the home where technology is fitted to a home which was built by a separate developer. The broad aim of the present invention is to unify these two, conventionally distinct, aspects to provide a new generation of high technology smart homes which are cost and time effective to construct.

Firstly, here the building arrangement has been developed with the incorporation of technology the central consideration. This makes the introduction of state of the art smart technology much more cost effective than when retrofitting to an existing building. In this way the user is able to control every aspect of the home experience As with existing smart homes, lighting, temperature, management of utilities, audio and visual devices are all able to be controlled. However, with the focus on the integration of technology from the offset and the use of a central services hub, this is achieved in a much more efficient and effective way in comparison to known “smart home” building arrangements. Furthermore, beyond these known smart technologies, with the current invention, the building itself is smart, the structure and room layout being flexible and able to adjust according to the immediate needs of the occupant. Control of all of these aspects is facilitated by software integrated within the home and accessible by a smart device or one or more user interfaces provided within the home.

A further intended change to the conventional building development approach, relates to the modular aspect of the arrangement, which allows the home to be updated simply by installing new modules, with the occupant playing an active role in the development process. Rather than in the traditional approach to renovation when the homeowner must approach various third parties to carry out specific aspects of the required work, it is intended that here an “open source engineering” approach is used where the building arrangement is built to common published specifications and third parties can develop modules which a home user may browse on an online platform, customise, purchase and install. It is envisaged that this will be facilitated by the use of an online platform, similar in concept to the Apple App Store. This is facilitated by the building arrangement since the hub provides a core to which modular rooms can be connected via a standard connection and furthermore they can access all utility services via this connection. This allows modules to be developed by third parties in a straight forward manner as long as they meet the requirements in terms of being configured to connect to the hub in this way.

A further aspect of this new approach relates to the use of data. A fully integrated smart home technology system, equipped with various sensors, allows data to be collected on an occupant's use of the home, allowing the home to learn and adapt to meet their needs. The central positioning of the service hub allows a central control system to monitor use of energy and utilities and adapt to the occupant's lifestyle to manage the use of resources efficiently. This concept extends to the future “smart city”, of which there are estimated to be 88 in existence by 2025, where citizen-generated data is likely to be used to aid efficient use of resources and growth of the economy. The data may be used to created a personal profile supported on the central control system in which all of the user's preferences are saved. When moving home the profile may simply be downloaded and installed on the new controls system.

This broad concept relating to a change in approach to home building is focussed around the building arrangement of the present invention which facilitates the changes, as will be described with reference to specific embodiments of the invention.

Overview of the Hub

FIG. 1 illustrates a building arrangement 100 according to the present invention which includes a column 110 within a surrounding living space. The column provides a hub through which external services are routed. In FIG. 1 the external services are not visible as they are internal to the hub and are described in more detail with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 1 further illustrates a first 120 and a second 130 moveable module which are attached to the column 110 and may be moved in contact with the hub column to change their position within the living space, as is illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B. FIG. 1 further shows a floor 151 and ceiling 152 which, together with the surrounding walls 153 define the living space. The hub column 110 or “Trunk” extends between the floor and ceiling, in this example in a central location in the living space.

As will be described the building arrangement 100, comprising the hub 110 and modules 120, 130, may be installed in an existing building which provides the walls 153 ceiling 152 and floor 151 defining the living space. Alternatively the building arrangement 100 may comprise an entire purpose built residential building or home unit.

FIG. 2 shows a building arrangement 200 according to the present invention in which the external cladding of the hub 210 is removed to show the hollow interior, acting as a conduit through which external services 240 may be routed. The piping for the waste water or sewage 241 is shown which enters the hub column 210 through the base, as will be described. The hot 243 and cold 244 water pipes are visible, in addition to the electric wiring 242 emanating from the hub 210 to provide electricity to the components of the building arrangement 200.

In the example of FIGS. 1 and 2, the hub 210 has a hollow cylindrical shape, providing an interior space for the routing of the services 240 and allowing the movable modules 220, 230 to move about the column 210 via rotation around its curved exterior. In other examples the column may take a different cross-sectional shape and the modules may similarly move in contact with its external surfaces.

In the example of FIGS. 1 and 2, the first 220 and second 230 moveable modules comprise a kitchen module 220 and bathroom module 230 respectively. These modules are connected to the waste water 241, hot and cold water pipes 243, 244 and the electricity supply 242 via their moveable attachment to the hub 210. In this way, the modules may rotate about the hub 210 while maintaining their connections to the external services routed through the hub.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate the movement of the moveable modules 320, 330 about the hub 310 between a first and a second configuration. FIG. 3A illustrates a first configuration in which the emphasis of the living space is on entertainment. Here, the kitchen module 320 and the bathroom module 330 are positioned so as to be circumferentially closer to each other on a first side of the hub 310, where this first side of the hub 310 is adjacent to a sleeping area 362. The sleeping area 362 contains one or more beds 364 which may be connected to the hub 310 in between the kitchen 320 and bathroom 330 modules.

The acute angle between the neighbouring sides of the kitchen 320 and bathroom 330 modules thereby defines a sleeping area which occupies a reduced fraction of the overall living space. In the entertainment space predominant configuration of FIG. 3A the sleeping area 362 occupies a small fraction of the overall living space. In this configuration, the far sides of the bathroom and kitchen modules 310, 230 on a second side of the hub 310, opposite to the first side, define a much larger proportion of the overall living space. This living area 361 is to a large extent free space, suitable for entertaining, and may contain audio visual equipment and seating for example. In the example of FIG. 3A in which the kitchen and bathroom modules are moved to provide an emphasis on entertainment, roughly a half of the overall living space is devoted to entertainment space 361.

In FIG. 3B a second configuration of the living space is illustrated in which the emphasis is on relaxing or sleeping, with an increased bedroom space 362. In this configuration the bathroom 330 and kitchen 320 modules are moved towards each other on the second side of the hub, to move further into the entertainment space 361. This extends the amount of living space occupied by the bedroom area 362 at the expense of the entertainment space 361, placing a greater emphasis on relaxing or sleeping. In this example the bedroom area 362 occupies a much greater proportion of the total living space (of that illustrated) with roughly a third of the living space devoted to entertainment space 361.

In this way, the building arrangement may adapt to the changing requirements of a home owner with modules moved in a straightforward manner via manual movement or electronic actuation for example controlled via an app or user interface on a control panel, as will be described. Furthermore since the modules remain connected to the hub column 310 at all times, they may remain connected to the external services to maintain their required function. For example the bathroom and kitchen may still be used in whichever configuration they are placed.

In the example of FIGS. 3A and 3B the beds 364 fold away into moveable bed storage modules 363, which are connected to the hub 310 and rotatable around it to vary their position in living space. The moveable bed storage modules 363 also act as partition walls and have an extending partition wall feature 365 on one side. The extending partition wall features may be extended radially away from the hub to meet the surrounding walls of the living space, as shown in FIG. 3B. In this way, they may enclose the bedroom area 362, dividing it from the living area 361 to provide privacy.

Although the adaptable living space function of the building arrangement has here been illustrated via movement of a bathroom and kitchen module, this function can extend to many other different types of module, for example an office, wall unit, master bedroom or guest bedroom. These types of module are described in more detail below.

Module Rotation Mechanism

The mechanism which facilitates the movement of the modules about the hub column will now be described with reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B. In this embodiment the building arrangement 400 comprises a mechanism within the hub which provides movement of two moveable modules—a kitchen module 420 and a bathroom module 430—while maintaining their connection to the utility services routed via the hub 410. In other embodiments different modules may be used, which may equally be connected to different services or none at all. For example, in other embodiments the one or more moveable modules comprise simple partition wall modules which may only be connected to the electric supply or no services at all, their sole function being to divide the living space. In further embodiments the building arrangement may be extended in a straightforward manner to provide rotation of further modules connected to the hub 410 some or all of which may also be connected to the services. Examples of further modules are described in greater detail below.

FIG. 4A is a schematic illustration of a plan view cross-section through the hub 410 of an embodiment. Here, the hub 410 further comprises a fixed member 411 which runs across the diameter of the hollow interior of the hub column 410, near the base of the hub 410. The fixed member 411 supports a rotating joint 412 at the centre of cross section of the hub, around or just below or above floor level. The rotating joint 412 provides the axis of rotation about which the modules rotate.

A first rotating arm 421 is connected via a rotatable connection to the rotating joint 412 at a first end and is connected to the kitchen module 420 at the opposite end. In this way the kitchen module may rotate about the rotating joint, around the external surface of the hub 410. Similarly a second rotating arm 431 is connected via a rotatable connection to the rotating joint 412 at a first end and is attached to the bathroom module 430 at a second end such that rotation of the second rotating arm similarly provides rotation of the bathroom module around the outside of the hub 410.

The rotatable connections of the first 421 and second 431 rotating arms are displaced from each other in a direction corresponding to the axis of rotation. In this embodiment, the second rotating arm corresponding to the bathroom module 430 is connected to the rotating joint 412 above the fixed member and the first rotating arm 421, corresponding to the kitchen module 420, is connected to the rotating joint on the underside of the fixed member 411. The rotating arms 421, 431 can therefore rotate independently of each other about the rotating joint. In some embodiments the joint can provide a complete range of rotation such that the rotational displacement of the modules around the hub 410 is only limited by contact with other modules. In other embodiments the range of rotation of each module may be limited to a predefined region. This may be achieved by placement of one or more stops which prevent further movement beyond a certain point. In particular, for each rotating arm there be a circumferential slot within the wall defining the cylindrical hub column, through which the rotating arms 421, 431 extend to their connection with the moveable modules. The length that this slot extends around the circumference defines the range of movement of the corresponding arm.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 4 to 6, the hub has a circumferential slit within the wall of the hub for both the rotating arm 421 corresponding to the kitchen module 420 and the rotating arm 431 corresponding to the bathroom module 430. The range of the slits around the circumference of the hub may vary according to the desired range of rotation to be provided and to ensure that the hub column is still adequately supported by the base unit. The circumferential slot 229 for the kitchen module 220 is visible in FIG. 2 where it extends from the door to the hub clockwise around the column to permit rotation of the kitchen module through several tens of degrees.

FIG. 6D shows how when the flooring is inserted into the home unit the circumferential slits 629, 639 lie above the floor such that the rotating arms 421, 431 rotate above the floor to provide the rotation of the kitchen and bathroom modules about the hub. The circumferential slit 1339 for the bathroom module which is also shown in FIG. 13A. This figure illustrates how the cladding of the hub is provided so as to leave the circumferential slit exposed, through which the rotating arm 431 extends to provide the rotation of the bathroom module.

The weight of the modules may be supported fully by the hub column 410 or by a combination of the column and floor. In the embodiment of FIG. 4B a rail 415 is provided around the circumference of the hub, just above floor level. The modules connect to the hub via the rail which provides a slideable connection with which the module stays attached to the outer surface of the hub as it is moved around the circumference of the hub column 410. The rail further acts as a retainer, keeping the module in position whilst the weight rests on the floor. One or more further circumferential rails 415 may be provided at various heights around the hub to facilitate a strong connection between the moveable modules and the hub. In certain embodiments, the moveable modules may further be supported by flooring which may similarly include a rail running along the floor circumferentially around the hub at a certain radial distance from the hub 410, or preferably by utilising an array of omnidirectional bearings as wheels to provide easy movement—or alternatively by using compressed air. Alternatively, conventional wheels may be provided on the lower surface of the module to facilitate the movement.

Movement of the modules around the hub may be driven by the manual application of force to the modules to push them into the required configuration. However, preferably, as in the embodiment of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the movement of the kitchen module 420 and bathroom module is driven by a corresponding electric linear actuator 450. Each linear actuator 450 comprises a pair of arms, one of fixed length 451 and one telescopic 452, rotationally attached at a hinge at one end of each 453. The telescopic arm 452 is connected, at the opposite end 454 to its hinged end 453, to the rotating arm 421 of the corresponding module. The fixed length arm 451 is connected at its non-hinged end 455 to a fixed component 413 of the hub 410. By applying electric power to extend the telescopic arm 452 connected to the rotating arm 421 of the kitchen module 420, a sufficient force is produced to push the rotating arm away from the fixed end 455 of the fixed length arm 451 of the linear actuator to rotate the kitchen module 420. The arms 451, 452 of the linear actuator 450 rotate away from each other about their hinged end 453, to account for the rotation of the rotating arm of the module, away from the fixed point 455 of the linear actuator 450.

In preferred embodiments the bathroom and kitchen modules are predominantly supported by the floor via wheels, omnidirectional bearings or spherical casters. Rotation of the kitchen and bathroom modules may be limited by the range of the actuators which power the movement. For the other modules, such as an office module, dividing wall modules, bed modules, the rail 415 retains the modules to the hub wall and the rotational movement of modules is limited by adjacent modules and the doorway to the internal room of the hub,

Control of the linear actuators may be via a smart device, such as an app on a smart phone, or alternatively via a specialised control unit within the building arrangement. Set orientations of the moveable modules, related to different functions of the home such as “entertaining”, “sleeping”, “working”, may be programmed into the control unit such that the user may select one of these options and the actuators extend/retract accordingly to place the modules in the correct positions as defined by these set orientations.

Connection of Modules to Services Routed Through the Hub

In some embodiments the modules may not require connection to the external services routed through the hub, for example in the case where the moveable modules are rotatable partition walls or a foldable bed unit as shown in FIG. 3. However in preferable embodiments the modules are connected to one or more of the external services routed through the hub and the connection is maintained during movement of the modules about the hub.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the first 421 and second 431 rotating arms support the connections from the external services routed through the hub 410 to the corresponding modules 420, 430. Considering firstly the connection to the sewage, as illustrated in FIG. 4B, a fixed soil/sewage pipe 441 is positioned in the base of the hub 410 and is connected to the external sewage system on an outlet side 447. The fixed soil pipe portion 441 and extends from the connection the sewage system, underneath the hub 410 before turning to meet the rotating joint 412 vertically along the axis of rotation. At the end meeting the rotating joint 412 there is positioned a rotating connector 442, which connects the fixed portion of the soil pipe 441 to the kitchen soil pipe connector 443. The rotating connector 442 and kitchen soil pipe connector 443 may rotate relative to each other while maintaining a sealed connection along the soil pipe system. The kitchen soil pipe connector 443 includes a branched section 444 which extends along the first rotating arm 421 to connect to the waste water from the kitchen module 420. In this way, when the kitchen module rotates via rotation of the first rotating arm 421, the kitchen soil pipe connector 442 rotates relative to the rotating joint 442, while maintaining a sealed connection from the kitchen waste/soil water to the fixed soil pipe component 441 and on to the external sewage system.

As shown most clearly in FIG. 4A, the bathroom module is connected to the soil pipe system along the second moving arm 431. A bathroom soil pipe connector 445 is positioned on the rotating joint 412 and has a branch 446 which travels along the rotating arm 431 to the bathroom module. The bathroom soil pipe connector 445 connects to the fixed soil pipe section via the sealed path formed by the kitchen soil pipe connector 443 and the rotating joint 442. The bathroom soil pipe connector 445, may rotate relative to the kitchen soil pipe connector 443 while maintaining a sealed connection along the path. In this way, the bathroom waste is connected to the rotating joint via the branch 446 from the bathroom soil pipe connector 445 which in turn is connected to the external sewage system via the independently rotatable kitchen soil connector 443 and the fixed soil pipe 441. In this way each module has an individually rotatable branched sewage pipe connected off the sewage pipe line running along the axis of rotation. This arrangement provides a constant connection from the external sewage system routed through the hub to the kitchen and bathroom modules at all times, even during rotation of the modules.

Although in the embodiment of FIG. 4, the above described arrangement of the soil pipe connector via the rotating joint is only used for the soil/waste water connection, in other embodiments other services, such as the water pipes, may be connected using this arrangement.

In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the external water connection is similarly routed through the hub 410 to connect to the moveable modules and any further facilities requiring a water connection. The initial stage connection with the external water supply may be via conventional fixed piping which bring the water into the base of the hub column 410. This mains water is then connected to an initial stage flexible water pipe 461 which routes it through the hub. This initial flexible water pipe then divides such that one divided route carries water to be heated and further flexible cold water pipe 462 route carries cold mains water to the required facilities. Heating may be carried out by solar heaters in the roof in addition to in line electric heaters. The returning hot water is then distributed through the hub to the modules and required facilities with a flexible hot water pipe 463. Further divisions of flexible water pipe carry the hot 464 and cold 465 water along the rotating arms to connect with outlets in the bathroom and kitchen modules 430, 420. The hot and cold water pipes are sufficiently flexible and of sufficient length that they do not restrict rotation of the rotating arms 421, 431 and remain connected throughout the provided range of rotation of the modules. A grey water pipe 466, which is also flexible, may carry collected water from a reservoir on the roof, through the hub 410 to one or more outlets in the modules. For example grey water may be used in the flushing mechanism of the toilet of the bathroom module 430. The grey water line may take the form of a flexible pipe running from the reservoir supported above the column down into the column and along one or more of the rotating arms to connect to the required facilities of the moveable module. The grey water line may run down through the walls of the column to the base of the column before extending along the rotating arm to the module.

The mains electricity may similarly be carried to a connection point by conventional means before being routed through the base of the hub 410 for distribution around the building arrangement. In the embodiment of FIGS. 4A and 4B, a conduit 460 is used to carry the electricity and data through the hub 410 and throughout the building arrangement. The conduit 460 may similarly travel along the rotatable arms 421, 431 from within the hub to connect to the movable modules such that the modules may remain connected to electricity and data at all times, irrespective of position of movement.

Modules may be connected to electric power supply in both mains and low voltage. The low voltage supply may be connected via the circumferential rails 415 on the hub walls. Mains voltage where required is connected through a flexible cable which plugs into an adjacent outlet in the module.

In some embodiments, such as that of FIG. 4, the bathroom and kitchen modules have cables running through the rotating arms with flexible cables between the arms and the fixed member 411 to provide electricity and data. Modules other than Bathroom and Kitchen may be connected to electric power supply in both mains and low voltage. The low voltage supply may be connected via the circumferential rails on the hub walls and mains voltage and data where required is likely to be through a flexible cable.

As shown in FIG. 4B the data and electric conduit may take the form of a ring 471 which runs around the hub below floor level with a number of radial connections which extend from the ring to reach all areas of the building. A similar ring may be provided in the ceiling around the diameter at the top of the hub 410. These data rings may form separate Ethernet networks, which can be accessed at any point along its length, providing “plug and play” connectivity to each of the separate data networks. More details on the functionality of these networks is provided below.

Foundation Unit

As described above, the columnar hub and moveable modules may be installed in an existing building, in which case the existing services supply lines are routed under the hub and connected as described above. In preferable embodiments however, the entirety of the building structure is purpose built to maximise the advantages of the building arrangement according to the present invention. In these cases the building arrangement may further include a base foundation unit which is firstly installed before the column of the hub is mounted on top. This provides both structural stability and a predetermined arrangement of connections to which the external services may be easily connected to route up through the hub as described.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a foundation unit 580 forming the base of an embodiment of a housing arrangement according to the present invention. The foundation unit comprises a robust shell 581 upon which the column of the hub 510 is mounted. In the embodiment of FIG. 5A the block 581 has a plurality of radial holes 582 periodically positioned around the circumference and underneath of the foundation unit 580. The holes may support an array of radial poles which extend from the foundation unit to provide increased structural support, as will be described. The outer shell 581 of the foundation block further comprises one or more openings to allow the incoming external services to pass through. These openings are in a predetermined arrangement such that it is straightforward to connect the mains water, electricity, gas, waste connections to the corresponding connectors present in the base. An advantage of using such a foundation unit is that, unlike when retrofitting to an existing building, the connection points for each of the utilities are in standard known positions so the job of connecting each of the incoming services is much more straightforward.

As shown in the cutaway view of FIG. 5B the initial fixed sections of the waste 541, electric and data 570 and water 561 emerge through the openings 583 ready to be connected. In this way, the connections internal to the foundation unit 580 and column 510 may come ready fitted and simply need to be connected to the external services at these points.

Structure and Assembly of the Building Arrangement

FIGS. 6A to 6E illustrate a preferred structure and assembly process of an embodiment in which the full housing structure is purpose built.

As shown in FIG. 6A, the column 610 of the hub forms the core of the housing arrangement and is the first component to be assembled together with the foundation unit 680. In this embodiment the column structure is constructed using lengths tubing 614 connected together to form a mesh structure with nodes 613 providing the joints between the interconnecting tubes 614. Possible material for the tubing includes carbon fibre composite and steel. Two end cap rings 611, 612 are preferably used, which sit at the longitudinal ends of the column and the interconnecting lattice is constructed between these end caps 611, 612. The end caps are preferably integral units which provide structural stability to the design. The cap rings are preferably steel and there is also an array of vertical steel columns connecting the upper cap ring to the lower cap ring as well as the nodes being connected at points along its length. The use of these materials provides a lightweight but robust structure at the core of the building arrangement which is easy to assemble.

Assembly can take place wholly on site or can be part pre-assembled and completed on site. It is preferred to pre-assemble as much as possible in the factory. The site is prepared with the foundation unit 680 which connects directly onto the hub and has the services managed for internal distribution within its base. It is anticipated that the following structure and assembly process could allow for units being fully built and operational within a few days with a dedicated team and basic lifting equipment.

This construction technique uses the hub column to support a sufficient amount of the load from the home allowing the interior configuration of the home to be easily changeable.

The first stage of the build is to install the foundation unit 680 which comprises a solid, integral unit to provide a base on which the column is then mounted. The foundation unit may be rooted into the ground using an array of poles 684 extending from the foundation unit radially around its circumference which extend into the ground to provide significantly increased structural stability. The poles 684 are preferably steel or a similar material and may be angled perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the column; angled downwards into the ground; and extend directly downwards as illustrated in the embodiment of FIG. 6A. The specific arrangement of the poles may change depending on the geology of the installation site to provide maximum structural stability. The assembled cylindrical mesh of the hub column is then securely installed on top of the foundation unit 680 attaching the bottom end cap ring 612 around the circumference of the foundation plate 680.

The next step of the assembly process is to install a series of radial beams 691 extending from the circumference of the upper 611 and lower 612 end cap rings, as shown in FIG. 6B. The beams of this embodiment are positioned periodically around the circumference and extend out equal or varying distances from the hub. The upper and lower radial beams 691 are aligned and at their distal ends are connected by an upright 692 by a node 693 providing the joint. The proximal ends of the radial beams 691 are clamped into sockets running around the circumference of the upper and lower end cap rings 611, 612, which provides optimal load transfer. The beams 691 and uprights 692 may be connected by nodes 693 in a similar way as the hub column 610 structure. The beam 691 and upright/pillar 692 assemblies can be produced in a factory using setting jig for accurate and repetitive dimensions. The connecting points have self-aligning features with simple bolt fastening on all joints.

FIG. 6C illustrates a number of the following steps in the assembly process. Firstly the peripheral beams 694 and corner struts 695 are installed, again preferably using nodes 693 to connect the beams together. As with the hub column the nodes may be metal castings or manufactured by 3D printing. A cap 696 is then installed on top of the hub 610 and a series of roof support girders 697 are installed across the upper and peripheral beams 694. The cap may provide the rain water harvesting, with recesses configured to collect rain water which runs off the room for use in the grey water system. FIG. 6C also illustrates the following phase in which the electrical conduit 670 is put in place. This may take the form of pre-manufactured wiring looms routed through the hub and radiating beams 691. The electrical conduit 670 preferably forms a ring 671 internal to the upper and lower end cap rings of the hub. It then extends from the ring along each of the upper and lower beams such that it is easily accessible in all areas of the completed building arrangement.

FIG. 6D illustrates a number of the following steps in this exemplary assembly process of the current embodiment. Firstly the floor panels 698 are installed. They may preferably take the form of a series of coaxial rings of increasing radius around the hub 610. The electrical conduit may be integrated into the floor panels in the form of pre-manufactured wiring looms routed from the beams into the panel recesses. Bus bar unit 672 are placed into panel recesses in desired locations. The bus bar units 672 may be standard expandable bus bar distribution such as Electrak. Solar heater water reservoirs 667 are then installed on the roof, which provide efficient use of energy by partially heating stored water which may be further heated by inline heaters in the water system. The grey water system can be installed next by connecting tubing from the water reservoirs 667 on the roof and routing this into the hub for distribution. The grey water system may include rain water harvesting with reservoirs to collect the rain water as shown. An HVAC unit and connecting ducting 668 is then installed in the roof before the external wall supports 669 are connected along the peripheral walls and the roof (see FIG. 6E) is mounted on top. The HVAC unit may also include warm air makeup to reduce cost of heating the dwelling.

In the latter stages of assembly, as illustrated in FIG. 6E, the hub cladding 611 is installed on the outer surface of the hub 610 to hide the structural framework. The flooring panels 651 and ceiling panels 652 are then mounted on the respective floor and ceiling beam framework. The moveable modules are then installed and connected to the hub via the rotating arms extending through the circumferential slits 629, 639 shown in FIG. 6C. The moveable modules in the embodiment of FIG. 6 comprising a bathroom module 630 and kitchen module 620. The unit is then enclosed by installing the external wall panels. These may comprise predominantly glass, or preferably smart glass in which the tint of the glass can be adjusted from fully transparent to opaque via a control interface. Solar panels 654, 655 are then installed on the roof. In this example the solar panels include solar panels 654 for the electric system, configured to provide electricity to the electrical components of the housing unit, and solar panels 655 for the collected rain water reservoirs to heat water stored in the roof reservoirs before possible additional heating with inline electrical heaters.

The arrangement of FIG. 6E represents one possible arrangement in which the structure of the housing unit may be assembled around the core hub column technology. The housing arrangement may take any other structure which can connect around the hub to house the moveable modules or, as described, the column and hub may be installed into an existing building. Many other optional features may be included in the housing arrangement, some of which are described in the following sections.

The Control System of the Hub

As described above, by routing all services through a common location in the hub, it is much more straightforward to control, monitor and adapt the supply of the services to every component of the building arrangement. This can include the control of lighting, temperature, audio and visual equipment, movement of modules, opening and closing of blinds, windows and control of the opaqueness of smart glass and drop down window shades, communications such as telephone and data networks and monitoring of the use of utilities, including storage of utilities. The following describes the integration of “smart” home technology to the building arrangement via its connection to one or more networks, with overall control by a central control unit or “brain” in the hub.

Preferable embodiments of the invention use a central control unit to manage the connectivity of various components in the home across one or more networks. This home network infrastructure will preferably support:

    • Building Management Systems (BMS) which control lighting, temperature, shades, utilities, security, fire and access controls
    • Audio Visual
    • Data networking including broadband and Wi-Fi
    • Phones

Traditional “smart home” technology installations rely on a huge number of cables running back to a central location with a large amount of centralised equipment required. Advances in technology have meant that all of the items mentioned above are now able to take advantage of traditional Ethernet networks. This dramatically reduces the number of cables required as well as offering flexibility and simplicity.

The user may configure and interact with the control system via a home control software platform, with a user interface provided via one or more of a smart phone, smart tables or laptop computers running the software, a computer in the hub or one or more control panels around the building or produced as a “smart surface” which utilises a surface of the building arrangement which may acts as a user interface. The control system can also be accessed remotely for maintenance and support. For security and privacy, access is managed by the user.

FIG. 7A illustrates a possible configuration for the network providing connectivity between the various components and the central control system 720 within the hub 721. A software control platform on the central control system 720 provides the various functionality required to perform the monitoring and control of the services and components of the home.

The incoming services 722 are routed via the hub 721 where they interface with a control monitoring and metering module 723 connected to the central control unit 720. The incoming services also connect to a utility storage unit 724, which comprises means for storing one or more services on site. In certain embodiments the storage unit may comprise multiple separate storage units each configured to store a particular service. For example the storage unit 724 may comprise a water reservoir into which collected rain water and/or main water may be routed. It may further comprise means for storing energy, such as a battery, such that energy generated from solar panels may be collected and stored to be used within the home or sold back to the grid. It may further comprise means for on-site storage of gas. The storage unit is also connected to the service lines of the trunk, such that the stored service utilities may be routed throughout the building via the hub, as described.

The control monitoring and metering unit is also connected to the storage unit and is configured to measure and control the amount of each utility which is stored, such that a user may manage the storage of utilities via the central software platform.

As with all data created by the smart home, data created by the monitoring/metering module 723 may be stored in physical storage within the hub or in another location within the building arrangement. The software platform of the central control unit 720 may also upload data to cloud storage 725 or utilise cloud computing for calculations performed on the generated data.

Two way communication of data may also be provided by data connections between the software platform 720 and the “smart city” 726, as is described in greater detail in the corresponding section below.

The software platform of the central control unit 720 is configured to receive data from one or more sensors/monitors 727, where the monitors could include one or more of security, fire, user input, sensors and utility storage/usage monitors. Further examples of possible sensors are discussed below. The data created by the monitors in response to the corresponding sensed signals may be used to control one or more of the control functions 728 managed by the control unit 720. The component controls managed by the control unit may include one or more of audio visual device controls, data management, the movement of the moveable modules, control of the lighting and climate, access, security and utility storage.

A user may configure and manage the functions of the central control unit via one or more user interfaces 729. These may include one or more of smart devices, a mobile app, an online platform, a desktop/laptop connected to the network or a fixed touch screen within the home.

The software platform of the central control unit may support a personal profile which is customisable by the user. The personal profile may store various data regarding the way in which the home is used. This data may include preferred temperature/climate settings; sets of preferred orientations of the moveable modules; settings regarding the water collection, such as how often to introduce to the system; setting regarding solar energy generation and how much to (automatically) sell back to the grid; security settings such as when to activate the security settings such as during normal sleep patterns; audio visual equipment settings, such as favourite music to play at particular times; settings regarding amount of services to store in the storage unit at any one time; smart metering controls such as usual amounts of services usage; lighting controls such as favoured brightness, hue and warmth of lighting; window shade control and all other aspects of the behaviour of the resident as sensed by the various sensors described below.

This data may be used to form a unique personal profile for the resident. It also allows the central control unit to learn about the resident over time to improve the adaptation of the control of the various services and devices to the resident's behaviour. If the user's behaviour changes significantly, relative to their usual behaviour as determined by the stored data, they can be alerted. For example this may be used to alert the users if they are less active, spending more time in bed, requiring different lighting or temperature settings and so on. Such changes in behaviour could be used to identify negatives changes in health or mood which can the resident can then act on. The control unit can furthermore control various settings in response to such identified changes such as playing stored favourite music or changing lighting settings.

Another advantage of having a stored personal profile in this manner is that, when the resident moves home, the profile can simply be uploaded to the cloud and downloaded into the new smart home such that it can be immediately adapted to provide their living requirements. This vastly simplifies the process of moving house and reinstalling and configuring all devices.

This generated data may also be uploaded to be used by the “smart city”, where data regarding living behaviours can be used in many ways to optimise the management of a city or area as a whole, such as maximising efficient use of resources. This concept is described in more detail below.

Network Infrastructure

In a particularly preferred embodiment a standard Ethernet network is deployed and routed from the hub through the data conduit as described above. The Ethernet network will be segregated into four separate networks, one to handle each of

    • BMS and control
    • Data and phones
    • Audio
    • Video

Preferably, each of these networks will be implemented using core-edge network topology. One data backbone connection will be run in the ceiling and one in the floor, as shown in FIG. 6C. Each backbone will consist of a cable that runs from a central location in the trunk to one of 4 switches. The overall network will be designed so that each separate sub-network can be tapped into at any point allowing “plug and play” connectivity to each of the separate sub-networks.

When the building arrangement is purpose built as described above, each network will be engineered to form part of a “smart beam” infrastructure with pre-fabricated connectivity built within the very beams and supporting structures of the building itself. Custom panels and internal modules will also be engineered with the same connectivity to ensure all aspects of the building are connected to the central control unit or “brain” in the hub. Each component may be tagged with an identifier for tracking using technologies like RFID. This supports stock management, maintenance work and failure predictions. When the building arrangement is installed into an existing housing shell the networks can be installed conventionally by providing cables throughout the home.

Advantageously, the provision of cable routing via the panelised system of walls, floors and ceiling means there is need to demolish or break into wall, floor, ceiling surfaces to lay new cables. This feature therefore simplifies the on-going process of updating the home to incorporate new technology

Preferable embodiments of the invention will also come equipped with the following external connectivity:

    • Incoming phone and broadband via copper and fibre
    • Incoming cable TV
    • Incoming satellite TV
    • Incoming mains electricity with smart metering
    • Incoming water services with smart metering
    • Incoming gas with smart metering
    • Outgoing waste and drainage with smart metering

Lighting

Preferred embodiments of the invention have lighting control in all areas of the building arrangement, which may be connected to the main control unit in the hub via the data and electrical network routed through the beams. The control may be provided by keypads and software interfaces for intuitive control of lighting in each area but may also have automated lighting through motion sensors and automated switch off in all areas through presence detection. The lighting control system may be automated to respond to time of day and external conditions to maintain internal lighting levels but utilising external light to the greatest extent possible for maximum energy efficiency.

Importantly the lighting control system may group lights to reflect the changing layout achieved by the movable modules. The movement of the moveable modules will be taken into account by the lighting control system so to group lights together to reflect the currently defined room layout such that lights will automatically respond to commands based on the positions of internal walls, bathroom, kitchen and study modules for example. The lighting control network will also be linked to the automation of window shading control to reduce light in certain areas during the day and to ensure privacy and optimum energy efficiency.

The lighting system is also able to produce a daylight effect to mimic natural light and be controlled to provide light therapy.

Temperature Control

Preferred embodiments of the invention also employ climate control to manage the temperature throughout the home. The temperature control system will be configured to provide:

    • Zoned heating and cooling control;
    • Control of all central plant to include AC units, UFH manifolds, boilers, chillers, CHP etc. pending final mechanical services design;
    • Automation of window shades/treatments/windows to make use of natural heating and cooling to ensure energy efficiency;
    • Graphical representation of heating, cooling and energy usage and storage; automated fault reporting.

Security

Preferable embodiments of the invention will come equipped with an intruder alarm system that is configured to provide:

    • Contact sensors on each opening door/window/hatch
    • Vibration sensors on each external glass panel
    • Motion sensors covering all internal areas
    • Alarm setting keypads near entrance and in bedroom
    • Alarm sounders internally and externally
    • Phone line connection to emergency services
    • Connection to home control software for setting alarm and alerting occupant of intruder alarm activation and triggering of lighting as a deterrent

Preferable embodiments of the invention will come equipped with a fire alarm system configured to provide:

    • Smoke and heat detection throughout property
    • Alarm sounders
    • Phone line connection to emergency services
    • Connection to GlobalHom software for alerting GlobalHom users of fire
    • alarm activation and triggering of lighting to light the way to exits

Preferable embodiments of the invention will come equipped with an access control system configured to provide the following:

    • Video entry to allow video and audio communication to the front door from the home control software
    • Automated electronic door opening
    • Key fob, access code and biometric (fingerprint, palm print, facial recognition) entry
    • Home delivery hatch with separate key code access for secure deliveries
    • Connection to the home control software for alerts when access control is operated, remote management of key fobs and access control key codes

Preferred embodiments of the invention will be connected digitally to the outside world for incoming broadband services as well as centralised remote maintenance. Preferred embodiments employ cyber protection in the form of security systems which:

    • have firewall protection from external attacks which will be constantly updated to react to any advances in hacking technology; and
    • have a secure VPN connection to GlobalHom impervious to external attacks.

Metering and Sensor Technology

Preferred embodiments of the invention implement smart metering technology. This is facilitated by the central routing of the services through the hub and allows smart meters to be integrated with the central control unit of the hub. The hub may include smart metering for all incoming services, including

    • Mains electricity
    • Data
    • Gas
    • Water, including usage of grey water and harvested rainwater.

This is in order that the meters themselves do not impact on space within the home or affect external aesthetics. In some cases the specific form of the installed meters will dependent on local metering regulations in each territory as some may require meters to be located in certain external areas for access by the individual utilities companies. Smart metering also offers the advantage of integration into the home control software for graphical display of energy usage and to ensure utilities usage is managed with efficiency in mind.

Preferred embodiments of the invention include one or more sensors, the data for which may be fed into the central control system to control the various systems within the building. Integrated sensor technology may include:

    • Integration with wearable technology for diet and fitness management
    • Temperature
    • Extreme low and high temperature
    • Fluid temperature
    • Humidity
    • Thermal map
    • Air quality
    • Air flow
    • Presence detection
    • Smoke
    • Heat
    • Proximity
    • Spot flood
    • Rope flood
    • Motion
    • Strain
    • Barometric
    • Particulates
    • Gasses
    • Radiation
    • Nitrates
    • Electromagnetic feedback
    • NO2
    • CO
    • Condition monitoring

Each of these sensors will continually feedback into the home control software and be used to make decisions on maximising the efficiency of energy being used, keep the owners safe and provide information on personalised use of the home to each user.

Home Control Software

The home control software is intended to tie all of the above aspects of the technology together with a fully customised graphical interface.

It is proposed that the software platform is released as a development kit for third party companies and home owners. This will allow for the development of third party applications that can then be considered for integration into the standard home software offering.

As well as giving the GlobalHom user the means to control the technology within their environment, the software will also offer the following:

    • Dynamic responses in BMS control dependent upon the configuration of modules within the home
    • Control over the motorised positioning of each moveable module and dynamic responses to the real time location of each module
    • The ability for a home owner to “inform” the environment of new additions to furnishings. Together with the network of sensors, this information will further aid the software to make decisions on climate control to maximise energy efficiency
    • The integration of lifestyle applications to assist in the day to day running of the home owners lifestyle. These could include such applications as calendars, to do lists, wellness and meditation, exercise regimes, dietary information, recipes and food shopping etc.
    • The software can further be used to manage each modules energy requirements, localized environmental and spatial impact and its functionality.

The software will be implemented in the control unit within the hub and will be accessed through a fixed graphical user interface panel located at one or more appropriate locations, such as within the hub itself. The software will also be available as an app for use on all mobile smart devices, laptops, desktops and tablets.

As illustrated in FIG. 7B, in a preferred example in which the software is embodied as an app on a smart phone, the software provides many different functions. It firstly has a readily accessible home screen 701 which provides conventional data such as weather and appointments. It furthermore has conventional calendar and planning screens 702. From a menu screen 703, the various functions of the software may be accessed. For example, a BMS control screen 704 may be used to control, for example, the temperature, lighting and movement of modules within the living space. A further series of menu-selectable screens provide control of the media in each equipped room, to provide audio visual control in each room. A further series of screens 706 allows communication with neighbours and local community. This is particularly intended for connectivity between multiple homes according to the present invention. It is also envisaged that such connectivity between multiple homes will be important in the future in the continued development towards “smart cities”, which utilise data created by homes in a number of ways, as is described below.

A further series of screens 710 connect the user to an online market place in which new components for the home may be purchased. New modules, fittings or technology updates may be purchased directly from the original home developer by browsing products on these screens and customising them to the user's needs. There is furthermore a market place for third parties to develop modules, compliant with the standards of the current invention, which may be browsed and purchased.

Smart billing/payment of utilities is also included within the home control App along with detailed graphical energy usage metering.

Media Room within the Hub

A further feature of preferred embodiments of the invention is to provide a media room within the hub as illustrated in FIG. 8. This utilises the enclosed space of the hub to facilitate a completely controllable user experience in which they may play media and configure and control the home systems through the home control software and a user interface.

The media room may be accessible through an opening 803 in the hub structure and the room may comprise a series of reclined chairs 801 built against a portion of the curved internal wall. The chairs may include arm rests with a user control interface 802 built in. As shown in FIG. 8, the movement mechanism of the moveable modules, including the rotational joint and arms, is hidden beneath the floor of the internal hub room.

In this preferred embodiment the media room comprises a projected image with a 7.1 surround sound system. Preferably a projector is employed with image manipulation algorithms to shape the image to be suitable for display on any shaped surface. Making use of LED or laser technology for the projected image increases the longevity of the optics of the projector leading to prolonged reliability. Connection to the service and maintenance centre through the BMS system and software allows home owners to be warned in advance of when the projector's light source is likely to need replacing and can be offered the option of ordering a replacement.

The 7.1 surround sound system, within the enclosed space of the hub creates an immersive audio experience with speaker positions optimised for the ideal listening area. The uniform shape and furnishing layouts offered for the hub space enable the sound to be acoustically optimised for the space through speaker locations and the use of acoustic treatments delivering a repeatable experience.

The area beneath the seating in the trunk offers the ideal space to house the necessary amplification and processing for the immersive cinematic experience as well as being able to house the sub-woofer for the reproduction of low frequencies.

Content for this area will be delivered through specially developed content delivery software. This software allows access to a centralised pool of tailored content. Content will range from meditation and relaxation content through commercially available movies and music to individually commissioned pieces specifically for individual home owners. Each owner will also be able to manage their own personal content and upload it to their home media system for viewing in this area.

As with other areas of the home, climate and lighting will be fully controllable allowing the home owner to create the perfect environment in which to enjoy audio visual content. Control over this area as per all other areas of the home will be via the home software and app.

Environmentally-Friendly Aspects

The housing arrangement of the current invention is intended to reduce the use of energy by the home and allow the user to more effectively manage their use of resources. This is achieved in a number of ways.

As described above preferred embodiments of the building arrangement employ smart metering for all incoming services. This allows monitoring of the services as they enter the home through the hub. The meters are then integrated into the software such that a user may view data on their usage allowing them to more effectively manage their use of energy.

Energy storage can provide the ability for the home to function in the case of power outage. Energy storage units will be available in different sizes. The home control software will manage the crossover of full mains power and battery backup. Depending on user preferences, the home control software will safely shut down non-critical systems and limit lighting availability in order that backup power is available for the maximum length of time. Energy storage status including back up hours will be displayed through the home control software.

In preferred embodiments various energy generation options will be available for owners. Depending on the final configuration these will include one or more of:

    • Combined Heating and Power (CHP)
    • Solar
    • Wind

Generated energy can be diverted by the home control software to be used by the home itself or to be stored within an energy storage battery. Metering and monitoring of energy generation will be displayed through the home control software. Solar panels may be installed on the roof and may additionally have pre-set tilt adjustment to optimise the angle to the sun for maximising energy generation.

Preferred embodiments of the invention will employ of local rainwater harvesting and grey water usage minimising reliance on local infrastructure. The rainwater reservoirs are illustrated in FIG. 6D and the supply of grey water is shown in FIG. 4A.

It is intended that in the future real-time and historic clean water and waste removal requirements and usage may be made available to the connected Smart City to ensure reliable, cost effective delivery and removal when needed. It is further envisioned that each connected home will transfer real time and historic user data on electricity and gas usage to the Smart City. In addition, the energy generated from solar panels and wind turbines will be fed back into the local energy grid. Continuous management of this smart 2-way relationship ensures electricity and gas are delivered efficiently, reliably and cost-effectively whilst the homeowner user can benefit from the resultant revenue from energy generation.

Moveable Modules

As described in detail above, hub provides a connection to one or more movable modules which may be moved, in contact with the hub, to change their configuration within the home space.

In the preferred embodiment described in the above sections the moveable modules comprise at least a kitchen module and a bathroom module. More details on these units are provided immediately below, with the description of alternative or additional modules described underneath.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a kitchen module according to the present invention. The kitchen module 920 is shown attached to the hub 910. The attachment means for the kitchen and associated utility connections is described with reference to FIG. 4 above. The kitchen module 920 has a curved interfacing surface 921 which matches the radius of curvature of the hub, to allow rotation around the hub by the movement mechanism. The kitchen module of this preferred embodiment comprises a first portion 922 which has the form of a tall dividing section, extending from the hub into the living space to divide the kitchen module from the adjacent living space on one side. The first portion comprises cupboards 923 for storage, a fridge/freezer 924 and an oven 925. This exemplary kitchen module further comprises a central portion 926 which follows the curvature of the hub and has a hob 927 on a top surface of height appropriate for cooking. Finally the kitchen has a third, island portion 928 having the same height as the central hob section 926, which extends away from the hub 910 into the living area. The island portion 928 comprises a sink and faces a living room area such that it is suitable for entertaining. The whole kitchen module 920 is rotatable about the hub 910 is vary its position within the living space. As described above, the oven 925, hob 927 and sink are connected to the utilities of the hub through the contact of the kitchen module with the hob portion.

FIGS. 10A and 10B show an external and interior view of an exemplary bathroom module respectively. FIG. 10A illustrates how the bathroom module 1030 is connected to the hub 1010, with the movement mechanism and connection to services as described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 10B shows an interior view of the bathroom module which illustrates various functional features which are connected to the service conduit provided by the hub. In particular, FIG. 10B shows a ‘wave to flush’ sensor 1001, a backlit coloured led lighting panel 1002, a touchscreen (providing music/calendar/internet control) 1003, hidden speakers 1004, internet interface 1005, control panel (audio/internet/water) 1006, controllable under-lighting 1007 and jacuzzi setting 1008.

In addition to the kitchen and bathroom module, further embodiments of the invention include one or more additional or alternative modules. FIG. 11A shows, in addition to the bathroom 1130 and kitchen 1120 modules connected to the hub 1110, a master bed module 1140 comprising a bed connected to the hub 1110, possibly also including one or more reading lights integrated into the head rest. FIG. 11A further illustrates a master bedroom wardrobe 1150 positioned on one side of the kitchen module such that the bedroom space is defined between the master bedroom wardrobe 1150 and the washroom 1130. These modules may also be rotatable about the hub.

In FIG. 11B, the moveable modules further comprise a moveable partition wall 160 positioned between the master bed 1140 and a guest bed 1170, defining a guest bedroom space between the partition wall 1160 and the cupboard unit 1150.

FIG. 11C illustrates a further embodiment in which an office space is formed by the inclusion of a desk unit 1180 in connection with the cupboard unit 150 such that an office space is defined between the bedroom cupboard unit 1160 and the office cupboard 1150.

These provide just some possibilities for the moveable modules. In alternative embodiments any functional module can be included to provide a required home function and modules may be produced to provide any known home function. FIG. 12 provides further examples of moveable modules including a home gym in FIG. 12A, super storage in FIG. 12B, a meditation room in FIG. 12 C, a dance studio in FIG. 12D, a digital dance play room in FIG. 12E, a hobby workshop in FIG. 12F, a shoe tidy in FIG. 12G and twin fold out bunk beds in FIG. 12G.

Multiple Housing Units

The structure and arrangement of the building arrangement according to the present invention means they may be readily extended to provide further space or multiple independent units. The meshed frame structure described above with the straightforward assembly of the lightweight modular column and beam structure makes it more straightforward to expand single units by adding additional floor space.

FIG. 13A shows how the structure of the housing unit may be extended by extending the hub 1310 vertically in either direction to provide two or more stacked units. These units may form two floors of a single home or separate homes. The utilities and service are routed through the hub for both units to provide a common conduit for services for both units. FIG. 13B is an illustration of a block of four homes according to the present invention, with commercial space provided on the ground floor. In such connected blocks of housing units, routing conduits may be shared via the hub column 1310 to maximise efficient use of resources of the housing block as a whole. A lift and/or staircase is provided in the column on the near side of the building to allow access to each of the separate units

In other embodiments the hub may be extended downwards to provide an underground utility room or the floor level may be raised by the inclusion of an additional column underneath the hub to raise the housing unit above floor level. Where there are multiple stacked units, as in FIG. 13B, it may be advantageous to extend the hub downwards to provide a common utility room for the whole block to allow a common external access point to the blocks services when maintenance is required.

Smart City

As discussed in the preceding sections, the monitoring and control of the utilities via the central hub allows the creation of a vast range of data on how an occupant is using the home. This may include data on utility usage, such as the distribution of energy usage across the home, energy generation (via the solar panels and solar heating of water), data on how the home is being used based on the arrangement of the moveable modules and productivity. This data may be accessed and viewed by the occupant, however it is further envisaged that, when data is gathered from multiple such homes, this data may be utilised in “smart cities”.

Data produced by multiple homes may be analysed to ensure resource efficiency is maximised, allowing a smart city to adapt to the behaviour or its citizens. Use of the data can extend to many different sectors, including healthcare, education, retail and leisure, mobility, industry, utilities, use of resources such as water waste and air, and safety and security. Equally data generated from the smart city as a whole may be utilised on the individual home level by each resident.

For example, Smart Cities can harvest real time and historic user data from each home enabling more informed analysis of resource usage data and home generated energy contributions to the grid. Leveraging this data, real time and predictive algorithms can be developed that will assist in smarter utility provision, less wastage and less pollution. Smart billing to home users will reduce administration costs and ensure open transparent pricing. Usage spikes and anomalies can be tracked and predicted increasing robustness whilst alerting response teams of issues and ensuring minimal down time.

As Cities grow and become more populated, strains are placed on the water and waste management systems. Homeowners minimise their impact on this through the management of water usage, rainwater harvesting and grey water use. In addition, by harvesting real time and historic user data, reliable and efficient delivery and removal is maintained.

GH users have access to remote healthcare services with enhanced diagnostic tools including sensor technology. Less strain is placed on healthcare and emergency health personnel allowing efficient targeted delivery precisely when and where needed. Promotion of a healthy Smart City lifestyle is mirrored within each home ensuring less reliance on healthcare.

The building arrangement according to the present invention provides a smart home in which technology may be integrated into the building process which overcomes problems with exiting smart homes involved with retrofitting to existing buildings. Furthermore, the provision of a central unities conduit means the smart technology may be readily integrated with the incoming services to provide smart metering, monitoring, management and supply of the utilities throughout the home. The configuration of the home is adaptable such that it may be altered depending on the requirements of the residents via the movement of room modules about the central hub. This movement and reconfiguration of the living space may be provided without disconnecting the services such that use of the rooms is not affected. The home may provide an energy efficient residential house by the central control of utilities and the integration of energy generation and water harvesting. Sensors can collect data on all aspects of the living experience to feed back in to the central control system such the control of home devices may be controlled in response to measured data.

The invention fits into a broader concept which aims to change the approach to the home building market. The arrangement is such that third parties may develop compatible modules which a resident may browse and purchase on an online platform allowing them to take part in the home development process. The collected data has wider implications for use in a smart city where it may be used, together with data collected from large numbers of residence, to determine how to efficiently use resources and adapt the city to its resident's requirements.

Claims

1. A building arrangement comprising:

a column within a surrounding living space; the column providing a hub comprising a conduit configured such that external services may be routed through the column, the external services comprising one or more of water, electricity, gas, sewage and data connection; and
one or more moveable modules, attachable to the hub, wherein the one or more attachable modules may be moved while attached to the hub to change their arrangement in the living space; wherein
one or more of the moveable modules are configured to connect with one or more of the external services via their attachment to the hub and are moveable while maintaining a connection to the external services via their attachment.

2. The building arrangement of claim 1 wherein the column is circular in cross-section and the attached modules move via rotation around the column.

3. The building arrangement of claim 2 further comprising:

a central rotating joint inside the column;
a rotating arm for each moveable module, wherein each rotating arm is connected to the rotating joint at the centre of the column and extends to the external side of the column to connect to the moveable module, such that rotation of the arm about the central rotating joint provides the rotation of the module around the hub.

4. The building arrangement of claim 3 comprising two or more movable modules, each connected to the rotating joint via a corresponding rotating arm, wherein the connections of each rotating arm with the rotating joint are displaced in the vertical direction, along the axis of rotation, such that each may rotate independently.

5. The building arrangement of claim 25 wherein one or more of the service lines comprises:

a fixed portion configured to connect to the mains supply at one end, the second end extending upwards to meet the underside of the rotating joint;
one or more rotating arm portions which connect to the corresponding outlet of the moveable module at one end and extend along the rotating arm to meet the rotating joint at the other end; and
one or more rotating connection portions which connect the fixed portion to a rotating portion, wherein the rotating connection portion is configured to allow the portions to rotate relative to one another whilst maintaining a sealed connection to provide the passage of the service.

6. The building arrangement of claim 25 wherein one or more of the service lines comprises:

a flexible tube extending from a connection to the main supply of the service, along the rotating arm to the corresponding outlet in the moveable module, wherein the length and flexibility of the tube is such that a connection between the outlet and mains supply is maintained as the arm rotates.

7. The building arrangement of claim 3 wherein the hub column comprises:

one or more partial circumferential slots in the hub column, wherein each rotating arm extends through a corresponding circumferential slot to connect to the corresponding moveable module; and
the length of the circumferential slot limits the angle through which the corresponding arm can rotate.

8. The building arrangement of claim 3 further comprising:

one or more linear actuators, each comprising an extendable arm, the arm connected to an internal wall of the column at one end and to a rotating arm at the opposite end; such that rotation of the modules may be provided by activating the linear actuator.

9. The building arrangement according to claim 1 wherein each moveable module is supported by an array of omnidirectional bearings positioned between the module and the floor.

10. The building arrangement of claim 1 wherein the moveable modules comprise one or more of:

an electrical outlet configured to connect to an electrical supply routed via the hub;
a water outlet configured to connect to a water supply routed via the hub;
a sewage inlet configured to connect to a sewage outlet routed via the hub;
a gas outlet configured to connect to a gas supply routed via the hub; and
a data point configured to connect to a data connection routed via the hub.

11. The building arrangement of claim 1 wherein the moveable modules include one or more of:

a kitchen module comprising a sink connected to the water supply of the hub and cooking equipment connected to the electricity or gas supply of the hub;
a bathroom module comprising washing facilities connected to the water supply of the hub;
an office module comprising a desk and electrical equipment connected to the electric supply of the hub; and
a bedroom module comprising a bed.

12. (canceled)

13. (canceled)

14. (canceled)

15. The building arrangement of claim 1 further comprising a foundation unit, the foundation unit comprising a support base with a predetermined configuration of connection points to which the main supply of external services may be connected, the connection points connecting to the service lines.

16. The building arrangement of claim 1 wherein the hub column comprises:

two integrally formed end cap rings;
a circular array of columns connecting the end cap rings; and
an interconnecting array of tubing lengths and nodes forming a mesh, providing the cylindrical column wall structure.

17. The building arrangement of claim 1 further comprising:

a first and second radial array of beams extending from the column to the extremity of the living space, the first at the base of the column and the second at the top; and
a series of pillars connecting corresponding upper and lower beams at the edge of the living space.

18. (canceled)

19. The building arrangement of claim 1 wherein the hub further comprises:

a control unit configured to manage the supply of the external services.

20. The building arrangement of claim 18 wherein the hub further comprises:

a metering device in connection with each incoming service and the control unit, the metering device configured to measure the use of each service and provide data corresponding to the usage to the control unit.

21. The building arrangement of claim 19 further comprising:

a device controller configured to control one or more of: movement of the moveable modules; lighting units; audio visual equipment; temperature settings; and security devices;
wherein the device controller is connected to the control unit.

22. The building arrangement of any of claim 19 further comprising: one or more sensors configured to monitor one or more of:

temperature, humidity, motion, fire, security, air constituents;
wherein the data output by the sensors is sent to the control unit and the control unit is configured to use the device controller to control one or more devices in response to the received data.

23. The building arrangement of any of claim 19 wherein the control unit comprises a user interface, allowing the control unit to be configured by a user; wherein the user interface is one of: a smart device, a mobile app, an online platform, a desktop/laptop, a fixed touchscreen.

24. (canceled)

25. The building arrangement of claim 3 wherein the moveable modules are configured to connect with one or more of the external services via a service line for carrying each external service, the service line connected to a main supply at a first inlet end within the column and running along the rotating arm to a connection with a corresponding service outlet of the moveable module at the second, outlet end.

Patent History
Publication number: 20200190791
Type: Application
Filed: Apr 13, 2018
Publication Date: Jun 18, 2020
Inventor: Lee McCormack (Brentwood, Essex)
Application Number: 16/607,672
Classifications
International Classification: E04B 1/36 (20060101); E04C 3/30 (20060101);