Abstract:
The present invention provides a simplified construction module system and method to form a structure by a minimal crew with little specalized trade skills and minimum equipment in a relatively short time period. Relatively lighweight construction modules can be brought to a construction site and linked together to form the structure. In at least one embodiment the present invention includes foundation modules, wall modules, ceiling modules, and roof modules. Further, the modules can be subdivided into specific modules that can be interchanged with other modules, including a door module, window module, and sub-modules. A designer can simply choose between the various modules depending on the size and layout desired. Other building trades such as finishers, plumbing, and electrical can complete the structure as needed. One or more of the modules can be filled after erection on the jobsite with a filler to add strength or stability to the structure.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
       [0001]     The present invention relates to the construction industry. More specifically, the present invention relates to modular construction of buildings.  
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0002]     Present day construction of a typical building involves extensive time, materials, and attendant costs. This known fact is especially true for residential construction. For a typical structure, an area is surveyed and the land prepared to receive the foundation. A foundation crew builds the forms for the foundation, places reinforcement bar or bar screen mesh within the form, coordinates the delivery of the concrete, and smoothes or otherwise finishes the slab. After several days of curing, the frame of the foundation form is removed and the framing crew begins its efforts. The framing crew is responsible for erecting the framing around the house, including the bottom plates, studs, headers, top plates, joists, rafters, soffits, and other structures to the walls, ceiling and roof. The framing crew also generally places an insulation barrier on at least exterior walls to prepare for an outside finish. A roofing crew then arrives to place a roof, typically shingles or tile, on the framed deck prepared by the framing crew. This process is known as “drying in.” If the exterior surface is to receive a masonry exterior, then a masonry crew then begins the process of laying brick, stone, stucco, or other exterior surfaces. Alternatively, if wood is desired, then the framing crew can apply the boards to the exterior. A finishing crew is responsible for the interior cabinetry, trim, wall coverings, and other internal aspects. At various points along the process, the plumbing, electrical, heating and air conditioning, and other crews are responsible for roughing in, wiring, and installing the various lights, fans, built-in appliances, duct work, outlets, commodes, showers, bathtubs, sinks, and other aspects of a building. The above process can take from start to finish several months and in current prices can be in the range of $75 to $200 per square foot of construction depending on the style and design. The price is increasing as materials become more expensive, especially wood products.  
         [0003]     An alternative to the above typical construction is trailer housing. Trailer housing is less expensive and portable, but is generally not of the quality of the above construction. However, trailer construction offers an alternative and in many cases very practical alternative. Typically, the trailer housing is similar to the above construction. However, the foundation is a foundation of steel beams and plates. Similar to the above, the walls are erected, a “skin” of metal or wood is generally placed on the outside of the interior, and interior paneling, plastic or other covering, is placed on the inside with insulation therebetween. The plumbing and electrical specialties are installed at various points of the process. The trailer housing can still be relatively expensive. Further, while the trailer housing is portable, special rigs and expertise must be hired to move the trailer to the site location.  
         [0004]     Yet another alternative, at least for large commercial buildings, is tilt wall construction. Generally, the slab foundation is formed as described above. Tilt walls, fabricated offsite, are delivered to the site in relatively large panels weighing several tons. The panels require cranes and other heavy equipment for the erection of the walls with specialized expertise. Further, the tilt wall construction is generally applicable only to exterior walls. Interior walls are still required. Typically, the interior walls will include framing, such as steel framing, and exterior covering to the framing, such as paneling, sheetrock, or other coverings.  
         [0005]     Thus, those seeking a new structure are generally required to choose between extensive onsite construction that is expensive and time consuming, purchased trailer housing that can still be expensive, and tilt wall construction that requires specialized equipment and trade skills.  
         [0006]     Thus, there remains a need for relatively simple construction system that is efficient in use of time and resources.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0007]     The present invention provides a simplified construction module system and method to form a structure by a minimal crew with little specialized trade skills and minimum equipment in a relatively short time period. Relatively lightweight construction modules can be brought to a construction site and linked together to form the structure. In at least one embodiment the present invention includes foundation modules, wall modules, ceiling modules, and roof modules. Further, the modules can be subdivided into specific modules that can be interchanged with other modules, including a door module, window module, and sub-modules. A designer can simply choose between the various modules depending on the size and layout desired. Other building trades such as finishers, plumbing, and electrical can complete the structure as needed. One or more of the modules can be filled after erection on the jobsite with a filler to add strength or stability to the structure.  
         [0008]     The disclosure provides a construction module system, comprising: a first module having multiple surfaces around a cavity forming a three dimensional object with a hollow portion, the module having an opening through at least one first module surface, the first module further comprising a protrusion; a second module having multiple surfaces around a cavity forming a three dimensional object with a hollow portion, the module having an opening through at least one second module surface, the second module further comprising a receiver adapted to receive the protrusion to couple the second module with the first module to form an assembled structure; and the first module and the second module being adapted to communicate a pourable material between the opening in the first module surface and the opening in the second module surface when the modules are coupled together.  
         [0009]     The disclosure provides a construction module system, comprising: a first foundation module comprising a first series of protrusions, receivers, or combination thereof; a second foundation module comprising a second series of protrusions, receivers, or combination thereof, the second module being adapted to be coupled with the first module to form a foundation of a structure; a wall module comprising a series of protrusions, receivers, or combination thereof adapted to be coupled to the first and the second series of protrusions, the receivers, or combination thereof; wherein the first series of protrusions, the receivers, or a combination thereof is preformed prior to coupling the foundation modules together to coordinate with the second series of protrusions, receivers, or a combination thereof so that a wall formed of one or more of the wall modules can span the first and second foundation modules and be coupled with both of the first and second series of protrusions, receivers, or combination thereof.  
         [0010]     The disclosure further provides a method of protecting a building structure, comprising: building a removable at least partial protective shell around the building structure by coupling a plurality of removable modules together, the modules comprising multiple surfaces around a cavity forming a three dimensional object with a hollow portion and a series of preformed protrusions, receivers, or combination thereof to allow the coupling. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0011]     A more particular description of the invention, briefly summarized above, can be realized by reference to the embodiments thereof that are illustrated in the appended drawings and described herein. However, it is to be noted that the appended drawings illustrate only some embodiments of the invention. Therefore, the drawings are not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments. Like elements will be numbered consistently throughout the figures.  
         [0012]      FIG. 1  is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of the construction module system.  
         [0013]      FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional schematic view of a wall module coupled with a foundation module.  
         [0014]      FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional schematic view of a wall module coupled with a foundation module with an opening therebetween.  
         [0015]      FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional schematic view of a wall module coupled to an adjacent wall module.  
         [0016]      FIG. 5  is a schematic cross-sectional top view of a module having other layers coupled thereto.  
         [0017]      FIG. 6  is a schematic perspective view of a foundation module.  
         [0018]      FIG. 6A  is a schematic cross sectional view, illustrating an adjustment option on the foundation module.  
         [0019]      FIG. 7  is a schematic top view of a foundation layout having a plurality of foundation modules.  
         [0020]      FIG. 8  is a schematic top view of an alternative foundation for the construction module system.  
         [0021]      FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional schematic view of a module having an opening formed therein.  
         [0022]      FIG. 10  is a schematic cross-sectional view of a module having connectors coupled thereto.  
         [0023]      FIG. 11  is a schematic perspective view of a ceiling module having an opening formed therein.  
         [0024]      FIG. 12  is a schematic perspective view of an interior wall.  
         [0025]      FIG. 13  is a perspective schematic view of a protective shell.  
         [0026]      FIG. 14  is an enlarged cross sectional top schematic view of a column and a wall module portion. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
       [0027]     In the description that follows, like elements are marked throughout the specifications and drawings with the same reference numerals, respectively. The drawing figures are not to scale. The elements are generally shown in schematic form in the interest of clarity and conciseness.  
         [0028]      FIG. 1  is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of the construction module system. A construction module system  2  generally includes one or more modules that can be coupled together to form a building or other structure  3  of a variety of shapes and sizes. Such structures can include without limitation, residences, garages, storage facilities, buildings, schools, emergency facilities, and so forth. Further, the construction module system can form protective shells over such structures, including mobile homes and other portable structures, that are particularly prone to damage in high winds. In some embodiments, the modules can be removable, for example, after a protective shell is needed. The structure can include a foundation  4 , a wall  10 , and a roof  30 . Each portion of the structure can include one or more modules coupled together to form that particular portion. It is intended that a relatively small crew of two or more persons can readily assemble the modules or sub-modules to build the overall structure and if necessary other trades can add utilities, such as electricity and plumbing. The modules are generally constructed of weather resistant materials. In some embodiments, the materials can be heat or fire resistant, water resistant, insulating, non-condensing, or a combination thereof.  
         [0029]     The size, shape, and layout of the modules can vary. If necessary, the modules can be coded in some fashion, such as by color or numerically, to identity its respective position in the overall structure to assist in assembly. A software program can be used to allow a designer or other persons such as the end user assistance in selecting and laying out an intended structure. Further, the design or layout can include openings, modules, and other places for heating, venting, and cooling in the floor, walls, or ceilings.  
         [0030]     The foundation  4  can include one or more foundation modules  6 . A foundation module  6  can be coupled joined at a foundation seam  8  to another foundation module. The foundation module can vary as described in more detail in reference to  FIG. 7 . The term “coupled,” “coupling,” and like terms are used broadly herein and can include any method or device for securing, binding, bonding, fastening, attaching, joining, inserting therein, forming thereon or therein, communicating, or otherwise associating, for example, mechanically, fluidically, magnetically, electrically, chemically, directly or indirectly with intermediate elements, one or more pieces of members together and can further include integrally forming one functional member with another. The coupling can occur in any direction, including rotationally.  
         [0031]     Similarly, the wall  10  can include one or more wall modules. For example, the wall  10  can include a wall end module  12 , a door module  14 , a window module  16 , and other modules. One or more of the modules can have an opening such as a door opening  15  in the door module  14  and a window opening  17  in the window module  16 , generally collectively referred to as “pass through openings” herein. Advantageously, the modules are generally interchangeable so that the position of the respective modules, such as the door module, can be interchanged with other modules around the structure.  
         [0032]     Further, the wall  10  with its respective modules (or other portions of the structure&#39;s modules) can include sub-modules. For example, a window sub end module  18  can be smaller than a regular sized wall module. Advantageously, the sub-modules can be incrementally sized, such as one-half or one-third, of a wall module to help maintain interchangeability between the various modules, if desired. Further, a sub-module can assist in staggering a seam of a wall module, such as seam  9 , at a different location than a foundation seam  8 . This staggering, similar to laying brick on a wall, can help provide structural integrity. The wall  10  can also include one or more wall universal modules  20  and other sub end modules  22  that may or may not have various openings therethrough.  
         [0033]     The modules of the wall  10  or other portions of the structure can further include a first surface layer  24 , which can be an outer layer. The first surface layer may be coupled to the wall  10  or other portion, including integrally formed thereon. The first surface layer  24  can be formed in a decorative fashion, such as representing brick, stone, wood siding, stucco, or other attractive appearances.  
         [0034]     The roof  30  can be formed from one or more roof modules. For example, a roof end module  32  can be disposed at appropriate locations on the roof, such as at an end. The roof end module  32  can be coupled to a roof universal module  34 . Further, the roof  30  can include a roof opening module  36 . The roof opening module  36  can include one or more openings  37 . The opening  37  can provide a preformed opening for a vent through the roof, piping, or even a chimney.  
         [0035]     An end of the roof may need enclosing relative to the wall  10 . To provide a transition, the construction module system  2  can include a wall-to-roof transition portion  40 . The transition portion  40  can include a tapered module  42 . The tapered module  42  can form a transition between the generally horizontal level surface of the wall  10  to the angular portion of the roof  30 . A transition universal module  46  can be coupled to the tapered module  42  to fill in additional space. The tapered module  42  can be disposed adjacent the universal module  46  to transition to the other side of the roof  30 , as appropriate. The number of tapered modules  42  and universal modules  46  can vary depending upon the size of the construction module system  2  and the number of foundation and wall modules used. A top cap module  44  can complete the transition between the wall  10  and the roof  30 . For efficiency, the roof  30  can have a constant angle with respect to the wall  10  to assist in uniformly producing and erecting the transition portion  40 , although the number of pieces may vary depending upon the width of the structure being assembled.  
         [0036]      FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional schematic view of a wall module coupled with a foundation module. In general, the modules described herein can have preformed protrusions, receivers, or a combination thereof to facilitate coupling the modules together for form the structure or portion thereof. In at least one embodiment, the foundation  4  can be preformed with one or more receivers around the foundation  4 . The wall  10  and the modules forming the wall can be preformed with one or more protrusions  48  that are sized and spaced to engage the one or more receivers  54 . As will be described below in more detail, in general, this arrangement allows a foundation to be placed, and in modular fashion, the wall  10  to be erected on the foundation in relatively quick order.  
         [0037]     Further, the wall, roof, and/or foundation modules may be hollow in that the surfaces of the modules may form a cavity therein. For example, the foundation  4  may have a hollow portion  52  and the wall  10  may have a hollow portion  26 . In general, it will be advantageous to fill with a pourable the hollow portions of at least some of the modules with a substance to add structural integrity, insulation, or other desired effects to the modules. In some embodiments, the filling however may be unnecessary or undesirable. If filling is used, then one or more openings, such as opening  60  into wall  10  and/or opening  64  in the foundation  4 , may be formed through which filler can be placed in the modules. In at least one embodiment, the filler can be hardenable fluid such as concrete, a foaming insulation, a moldable product, or other structural materials. In another embodiment, the filler can be a pourable sand or other granulated substance that can be hardenable or can remain in loose fashion. In yet another embodiment, the filler can be a liquid or gel that again can be hardenable or stay in a liquid or gel form. For ease of assembly, it is believed that the modules will generally be erected first and then the filler placed therein. However, in some embodiments, it may be advantageous to place the filler in the module prior to modular placement.  
         [0038]      FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional schematic view of a wall module coupled with a foundation module with an opening therebetween. The embodiment of  FIG. 3  is similar to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 . However, the embodiment in  FIG. 3  illustrates an alternative opening for allowing filling of the modules when coupled together. For example, the wall module  10  can include an opening  50  through the protrusion  48 . The foundation  4  can similarly include an opening  56  through the receiver  54 . When the wall  10  and the modules forming the wall are coupled to the foundation  4  and the protrusion  48  has engaged the receiver  54 , the openings  54  and  56  are fluidically coupled together. Thus, filler that can be used at least partially fill the wall  10  can flow through the opening  50  and into the foundation hollow portion  52  of the foundation  4 .  
         [0039]      FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional schematic view of a wall module coupled to an adjacent wall module. A wall module, such as a sub end module  22  for illustrative purposes, can be coupled to another wall module, such as a wall universal module  20 . The coupling can occur in a number of ways as would be known to those who are skilled in the art, given the disclosure contained herein. In at least one embodiment, the coupling can occur in alternating engagement of opposing portions of each wall panel. For example, a receiver  76  formed in a sidewall of the module  22  can receive a protrusion  78  correspondingly formed in the adjacent module  20 . The protrusion and receiver can alternate between the panels. Further, an opening  70  can be formed in the receiver  76  and aligned with a similar opening in the protrusion  78  to allow insertion of a connector  74  therethrough. The connector  74  can include fasteners such as bolts, rods, pipe and conduit, and other linking members. Due to stress considerations, one or more of the openings  70  can be reinforced by a reinforcement portion  72 . While the wall modules are illustrated in a stacked vertical position, it is to be understood that the wall modules and other modules can be stacked in a horizontal position, for example, if a thicker wall were desired. The protrusion  48 , receiver  54 , connector  74 , and other coupling devices could be adjusted to accommodate different orientations, as would be known to those in the art given the disclosure contained herein.  
         [0040]     The schematic also illustrates one or more protrusions  48  coupled to the wall modules that can engage the foundation  4  as described in reference to  FIGS. 2 and 3 . A support surface  66  can be formed in between protrusion  48  and another protrusion. The support surface  66  can be supported by a corresponding surface on the foundation  4  or in some cases by a lower wall module, if the wall is sufficiently high. Alternatively, the protrusion  48  and its relative engagement to a corresponding receiver, such as receiver  54  described in reference to  FIGS. 2 and 3 , can be used to support the wall module.  
         [0041]     If the wall module is sufficiently high, then additional wall modules may be used to complete the height of the desired wall  10 . Therefore, additional receivers  54 , similar to the receiver  54  in the foundation described in reference to  FIGS. 2 and 3 , can be formed in the top portion of the wall modules  20 ,  22 , and other wall modules. Also, a support surface  68  can be formed on the top of the wall module (or on the top of the underlying foundation module) to correspond to a surface that would engage a support surface  66  on the bottom of a wall module. The wall module can have one or more openings  60  formed in a portion, such as a top portion of the wall module, through which filler can partially fill a hollow portion  26  formed in the wall module.  
         [0042]      FIG. 5  is a schematic cross-sectional top view of a module having other layers coupled thereto. The module generally includes a first surface layer  24  and a second surface  28 . For example, if the wall panel is an outside wall panel, then the first surface  24  can be an outer layer of the wall panel facing a space external to the structure and the second surface  28  can be an inner layer of a wall module facing an internal space of the structure. Similarly, surfaces  24 ,  28  can be an upper layer and a lower layer of a ceiling or roof module. At least one of the surfaces,  24 ,  28 , can include other layers coupled thereto. For example, layer  84 , coupled to the surface  28 , can represent an insulation layer. Still further, a layer  86 , coupled to the layer  84 , can represent a sheet rock or paneling layer, as may be desirable or suitable for the particular structure. One or more layers can also be coupled to the first surface layer  24 .  
         [0043]     Further, the modules may include a cross member  80 . The cross member  80  can assist in supporting the module across the hollow portion  26  or other hollow portions formed in the module by providing structural integrity across the void. Further, a pair of cross members  80  can form an opening  82  therebetween. The opening  82  can be filled with filler, as has been described above. Alternatively, the opening  82  can provide a passageway for plumbing, electrical, vents, and other utility and appliance connections. For example, an opening  88  can be formed in a portion of the module through which plumbing, such as piping or electrical conduit or wiring, can enter the space adjacent the module. The cross members on either side of the opening  82  can seal adjacent hollow portions so that the adjacent hollow portions can still be filled at least partially with a filler. The opening  88  can provide also a mounting surface for various utility service outlets such as electrical outlets, water faucets, drain lines, and other utilitarian functions that need access through a wall, ceiling, roof, or even a foundation.  
         [0044]      FIG. 6  is a schematic perspective view of a foundation module. The foundation  4  can include one or more foundation modules as described above. For example, the foundation can include a module that is formed with one or more receivers  54  that may be disposed along an exterior edge of the foundation. Further, one or more interior receivers  54   a  can be also formed in the foundation  4 . It is to be understood that the protrusion/receiver relationship is for illustrative purposes only—other coupling methods can be used as would be known to those with ordinary skill in the art given the disclosure contained herein.  
         [0045]     The modules of the foundation  4  can be coupled to each other by a similar receiver/protrusion relationship. For example, one edge of a module can include a protrusion  91  and a receiver  93 . Another edge can include a protrusion  90  and a receiver  92 . The relative spacing and placement of the protrusions and receivers can allow adjacent foundation modules to be coupled to each other. Further, an opening  94  can be formed through a protrusion and/or receiver to allow a connector  96  to be inserted through the receiver and/or protrusion when an adjacent module is coupled thereto to help secure the coupling between the adjacent modules. In some embodiments, it may be desirable to offset the engagement axis of the opening  94  on one side of the module from an engagement axis on another side of the module. In such instances, the engagement axis could be at a different elevation. Such an offset would need coordination with an adjacent module to ensure proper coupling, as necessary.  
         [0046]      FIG. 6A  is a schematic cross sectional view, illustrating an adjustment option on the foundation module. One or more of the modules, generally the foundation modules, can optionally include an adjuster  98  with a corresponding adjuster opening  99  in the module. Other types of adjusters can be used and the embodiment shown is for exemplary purposes and non-limiting. The adjuster  98  can include an enlarged portion for contact with the underlying substrate to the foundation. The adjuster  98  can be used to level the foundation module, before, during, or after installation on the substrate. The module can include one or more adjusters at various locations throughout the module.  
         [0047]      FIG. 7  is a schematic top view of a foundation layout having a plurality of foundation modules. The foundation  4  can include one or more foundation modules. In some simple structures, the foundation modules generally described as foundation module  6  in reference to  FIG. 1  can be used. In some structures having various design needs, different foundation modules can be coupled together to form the overall foundation  4 . The following example is illustrative only and other examples are certainly possible. For example, a foundation universal module  100  can be used in various portions of the foundation  4  such as on a corner. A foundation “T” module  102  can be used to help support one or more interior walls. A foundation “L” module  104  can be used to support one or more interior walls at a different spacing than the foundation “T” module  102 . A bathroom foundation module  106  can also be used to form a structure to support various plumbing needs of a bathroom that may need extra support or extra access, for example, through the particular foundation module. An exterior module  108  can be used when it is desired to simply support an exterior wall. A corner module  110  can also be used to simply support an external wall on a corner. In some embodiments, the corner module  110  will be similar to the “L” module  104 . A kitchen module  112  can be designed to accommodate various standard needs of a kitchen, such as cabinet supports, sink access, interior and/or exterior walls, and other common needs. A “P” module  114  can be used to form one or more walls, such as walls for a closet, in close proximity to each other. A cross module  116  can generally be used as an interior module to couple corners of interior walls between adjacent modules.  
         [0048]     The aforementioned modules are exemplary only and can be arranged in various fashion to accommodate the design of the structure. For example, kitchen modules can be placed at various locations and various interior and exterior walls coupled thereto, as may be desired or planned. The “T” module  102  can be used at interior portions such as adjacent to the cross module  116  to define a series of supports for interior walls that form a larger room overlapping two or more modules. Similarly, “T” modules and/or “L” modules can be coupled to the kitchen modules  112  to accommodate larger rooms that may overlap two or more modules. Further, such positioning with the respective receivers can be used to create intermediate walls, counters, and other surfaces.  
         [0049]     As described above, the various modules can include receivers (or protrusions) as may be suitable for the particular module. It is believed that a representative variety of foundation modules, wall modules, roof modules, and ceiling modules can provide sufficient customization for many structural needs and desires of the consumer.  
         [0050]     The modules can include one or more series of coupling elements, such as the receivers described above. For example, the universal module  100  can include a first series  118 , a second series  119 , a third series  120 , and a fourth series  121 . In the arrangement illustrated (and only for illustrative purposes) the universal module  100  can be placed at a corner so that the first series  118  and the fourth series  121  can be used to support an external wall. One or more of the interior series  119 ,  120  can be used to support an internal wall if appropriate. Similarly, the “T” module  102  can include a first series  123  and a second series  124 . In the arrangement illustrated in  FIG. 7 , the first series  123  can form an exterior series to receive an exterior wall module in alignment with the first series  118  of the universal module  100 . The second series  124  of the “T” module  102  if desired can be used to couple an interior wall module (not shown) to the foundation. The proximity of the first series  124  in the module  102  to the second series  119  of the module  100  could allow interior walls to form a reduced space that is smaller than a full module, such as an entryway, closet, vestibule, pantry, or another relatively small space. The cross module  116  can be used to complete one or more walls or interior portions of the foundation  4 . For example, a series  140  of a module  114   a  can be aligned with a series in the cross module in one direction and series  124  of the module  102  can be aligned with a series in the cross module in another direction. Each of those series could support an interior wall module that could form a larger room in conjunction with, for example, the universal module  100  and the exterior series formed in that module. The enlarged room could bypass use of the second series  119  and third series  120  of the universal module  100  to form the larger room. Alternatively, the series  119  and  120  could be used to form a reduced height wall such as a bar, counter, or other appropriate structure.  
         [0051]     Similar combinations can be made with the kitchen module  112  in combination with its series  132  and adjacent series  136  and  138  of the adjacent module  114 , and series  134  of an adjacent module on another edge of the kitchen module  112  as shown. For example, the main kitchen could be formed on the kitchen module  112  and extended to series  134 . Series  136  and  138  could form a pantry with a suitable interior wall having a door opening. A second door opening in an interior wall could be mounted on one of the series in the cross module  116  to allow ingress and egress into the kitchen area.  
         [0052]     The bathroom module  106  can include one or more openings in the module. For example, an opening  126  can either be a partial opening that does not substantially go through the entire thickness of the module  106  or can be an opening that goes fully therethrough. The opening  126  can provide access for other building trades, such as a plumber, to lay drainage, sewage, and water lines therethrough. The opening can afterwards be sealed with some substance, such as concrete, poured into the opening, so that appliances or fixtures can be mounted thereon, such as commodes, shower stalls, and so forth. Opening  128  can be a larger opening that might accommodate a bathtub or other larger opening and through which various utility lines may be placed. In a similar fashion, an opening  130  in the kitchen module  112  can be used to place drainage lines, water lines, electrical and other utility connections for sinks, waste disposals, and other appliances.  
         [0053]     Thus, a building structure can be completed by the proper selection and then assembly of the modules in a relatively short and standardized fashion. In general, it is believed that the foundation modules will include receivers below the top surface of the foundation module. Thus, any receivers that are not used may be filled with a filler, such as a hardenable material like concrete, to facilitate walking over the surfaces. Still further, other form of coverings can be mounted to the foundation surfaces, such as carpet, vinyl, and other floor coverings.  
         [0054]      FIG. 8  is a schematic top view of an alternative foundation for the construction module system. An alternative foundation  4 a could be a poured concrete foundation that could be suitable or desired for some installations. Further, the foundation  4   a  could include a pier-and-beam foundation or other foundations as may be appropriate to the site. In some instances, such as remote locations, the foundation  4   a  could simply be made of soil, rock, or other suitable surface into which receivers  54  and/or  54   a  are formed to receive these wall modules described herein.  
         [0055]     The upper surface of the foundation  4   a  can be formed with receivers  54  and interior receivers  54   a  as may be appropriate to the particular layout. The foundation  4   a  could be used to support the wall modules, ceiling modules, roof modules, and other modules described above.  
         [0056]      FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional schematic view of a module having an opening formed therein. From the various pass through openings  141  described herein, such as door opening  15 , window opening  17 , window opening  19  and other openings, it may be advantageous to provide a mounting surface for a structural element, such as a door or window, to fill the particular opening. A connector  142  could be coupled to the particular module in a variety of ways and upon which the door, window, or other element is mounted. For example, the connector  142  can be coupled to the module by adhesive, fasteners, or molding a reinforced section to the opening of the module. The connector  142  can be metallic, wood, plastic, or other structural material. The openings  141 , such as windows, and doors, can further include adverse weather protectors, such as built-in hurricane coverings, and/or couplers  145  for the weather protectors to allow coupling of the weather protector over the openings  141 .  
         [0057]      FIG. 10  is a schematic cross-sectional view of a module having connectors coupled thereto. In some modules, such as wall modules, ceiling modules, roof modules, and perhaps foundation modules, one or more appliances or fixtures or cabinetry may need attachment thereto. One or more connectors  144 , similar to connector  142  described in reference to  FIG. 9 , can be coupled to the surface  143  of a particular module. Further, some modules may have an opening  146  formed therein featuring one or more cross members  80 ,  80   a , or other supports. In some embodiments, the opening  146  can function as a utility opening through which plumbing, electrical, vents, and other components of a typical structure can be placed. Further, one or more openings  88  can be preformed or formed at the site through which the various conduits, lines, wiring, and so forth can be routed through the surface  143 .  
         [0058]      FIG. 11  is a schematic perspective view of a ceiling module having an opening formed therein. The construction module system  2  can further include one or more ceiling modules  148 . Ceiling modules are generally mounted on top of the wall  10 , where the wall  10  can include exterior or interior wall modules, described herein. In one embodiment, a ceiling module can include an opening  150  at least partially formed therethrough. The opening  150  can facilitate mounting of ceiling fixtures, such as lights, fans, vents, speakers, and other generally known ceiling mounted objects. The ceiling modules  148  can be formed in a similar fashion as the foundation modules, in that the ceiling modules can include one or more receivers to receive various protrusions in an upper portion of the wall  10 , as described in reference to  FIG. 4 . Other alternatives for coupling the ceiling modules to the wall modules can be made, as would be known to those with ordinary skill in the art, given the description contained herein.  
         [0059]      FIG. 12  is a schematic perspective view of an interior wall. The construction module system  2  can further include one or more interior modules  152 . For example, an interior wall module, such as interior wall universal module  158 , can be used throughout interior portions of the structure constructed with the construction module system  2 . In some embodiments, the interior wall modules  12  can be the same or similar to the exterior wall modules. For example, a universal module  158  can be similar to the universal module  20 , described in reference to  FIG. 1 . An interior wall opening module  154  having an opening  156  can be used to form door openings, window openings, and other openings as may be appropriate to the particular inside design. In like fashion, the wall opening module  154  can be similar to the door module  14 , the window module  16 , or other modules described herein having openings therethrough. In some other embodiments, a sub module  160  can represent a shortened interior wall having an upper surface  162 . The sub module  160  can be used to create attractive counters, room dividers, and other space designs as may be appropriate. The upper surface  162  on the sub modules can be smoothed to present a finished surface or can have different receivers and support services to support, for example, a counter top (not shown).  
         [0060]     The upper portion of the interior walls can contain one or more interior recesses  54   a  and support surfaces  68   a  similar to the receiver  54  and support surface  68 , described in reference to  FIG. 4 . In other embodiments, the top of the interior walls may be smooth, so that the ceiling rests thereon and the location of the ceiling panels may be controlled by the exterior walls. In still another embodiment, the interior walls could be formed without the receiver  54  and protrusion  68  in the upper portion of the wall so that the ceiling  150  is placed thereon and attached via a variety of other methods, as would be known to those skilled in the art given the present disclosure.  
         [0061]      FIG. 13  is a perspective schematic view of a protective shell.  FIG. 14  is an enlarged cross sectional top schematic view of a column and a wall module portion. The figures will be described in conjunction with each other. It is well known that the Gulf Coast has been hit by multiple large and devastating hurricanes in the last few years. Existing structures such a mobile homes, portable buildings, and other structures that are not anchored and as strong structurally as more permanent structures are particularly susceptible to wind and other damage. Mobile homes are often damaged by high winds, because their foundation does not rest on the ground and wind forces under the mobile home frames can topple the homes. Other types of protection can be useful such as protection from blizzards and driving snow, flooding, and other natural and man-made conditions. Even temporary protection can sometimes be all that is needed.  
         [0062]     The construction module system  2  can also be used to build a structure  3  as a protective shell around another structure  164 . The protective shell can includes one or more walls, a roof, a foundation, or a combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, a roof can be formed over the structure  164  that can include roof modules as described above. Alternatively, the roof can be a conventional roof with metal, asphalt shingles, tiles, and so forth. The walls are generally formed at least partially with a plurality of wall modules  12  described above. The wall modules can be coupled together in sections as appropriate.  
         [0063]     The walls can be moved between a first position and a second position, where one of the positions is more protective than the other position. In at least one embodiment, the wall modules can be rotatably coupled together in a vertical fashion that can be raised and lowered as needed for protection. A plurality of columns  168  can assist in supporting and guiding the wall modules. For example and without limitation, the column  168  can form a guide channel  172  in which a guide  174  can move, where the guide  174  is coupled to the wall module  12 . The guide  170  can be a wheel, post, or other guiding element. One or more sections can be raised and lowered when there are multiple sections coupled together. Alternatively, the wall modules can simply be removed and reassembled as necessary and thus a guide  174  may not be particularly useful.  
         [0064]     The modules can be at least partially filled with the pourable material described above on site, such as when the modules are in a protective position to the protected structure. At least a portion of the pourable material can be emptied from the modules when the protective need ends to facilitate easier removal or movement of the modules.  
         [0065]     While the foregoing is directed to various embodiments of the present invention, other and further embodiments may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. Other embodiments within the scope of the claims herein will be apparent to one skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention as disclosed herein. For example, various methods and systems for coupling the modules together can be had, as would be known to those with ordinary skill in the art, given the basis of the modular disclosure herein. It is intended that the specification, together with the example, be considered exemplary only, with the scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the claims that follow.  
         [0066]     The various methods and embodiments of the invention can be included in combination with each other to produce variations of the disclosed methods and embodiments, as would be understood by those with ordinary skill in the art, given the understanding provided herein. Also, various aspects of the embodiments could be used in conjunction with each other to accomplish the understood goals of the invention. Also, the directions such as “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “upper,” “lower,” and other directions and orientations are described herein for clarity in reference to the figures and are not to be limiting of the actual device or system or use of the device or system. Unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, should be understood to imply the inclusion of at least the stated element or step or group of elements or steps or equivalents thereof, and not the exclusion of a greater numerical quantity or any other element or step or group of elements or steps or equivalents thereof. The device or system may be used in a number of directions and orientations. Further, the order of steps can occur in a variety of sequences unless otherwise specifically limited. The various steps described herein can be combined with other steps, interlineated with the stated steps, and/or split into multiple steps. Additionally, the headings herein are for the convenience of the reader and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.  
         [0067]     Further, any references mentioned in the application for this patent as well as all references listed in-the information disclosure originally filed with the application are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety to the extent such may be deemed essential to support the enabling of the invention. However, to the extent statements might be considered inconsistent with the patenting of the invention, such statements are expressly not meant to be considered as made by the Applicant.