Design in Modular Construction

Modular construction can dramatically improve efficiency in construction, through factory production of pre-engineered building units and their delivery to the site either as entire buildings or as substantial elements. The required technology and application are developing rapidly, but design is still in its infancy. Good design requires a knowledge of modular production, installation and interface issues and also an understanding of the economics and client-related benefits which influence design decisions.

Looking at eight recent projects, along with background information, this guide gives you coverage of:

• generic types of module and their application
• vertical loading, stability and robustness
• dimensional and spacial planning
• hybrid construction
• cladding, services and building physics
• fire safety and thermal and acoustic performance
• logistical aspects – such as transport, tolerances and safe installation.

A valuable guide for professionals and a thorough introduction for advanced students.

Professor Mark Lawson is professor of construction systems at the University of Surrey, and consultant to the Steel Construction Institute (SCI). He is a chartered civil and structural engineer and member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). His BSc (Eng) is from Imperial College, and his PhD was obtained from the University of Sanford in the field of stressed skin design of steel-framed buildings. In 2011, he was awarded two prizes by the Institution of Civil Engineers for published papers, including the Howard Medal. He has been involved in many EU projects in the steel construction sector and has led major projects on sustainable design in steel and on modular construction systems.

Professor Ray Ogden has a degree in architecture and a PhD in mechanical engineering. He has been involved in construction-related research and teaching since 1986, including work related to light steel, off-site, and modular construction, building envelope design, and low-carbon solutions. He is currently a professor and associate dean of research and knowledge exchange in the Faculty of Technology, Design and Environment at Oxford Brookes University, where he is also director of the Tata Centre for the Building Envelope. He has authored seven books and numerous technical papers and reports, and been responsible for a wide range of research and live demonstration projects.

Dr. Chris Goodier is a senior lecturer in the School of Civil and Building Engineering, Loughborough University, having worked previously for BRE and Laing Civil Engineering. He is a chartered builder with 20 years’ experience in all aspects of construction, including research, contracting, and consultancy, and has published more than 130 papers, books, reports, and articles. He recently chaired the 2013 British Council’s International Conference on Sustainable Construction and leads a significant ongoing portfolio of government- and industry-funded research in the areas of concrete materials, off-site technology, sustainability, infrastructure, renewable energy, and construction futures.