This subdivision is hierarchical. Several elements can, for exam-
reys. The same applies to further subsystems, such as partition
ple, form a module and the assembled modules, the system.
walls, stairs or sanitary units, in as far as these are prefabricated
Systems, whether at the level of the primary system or the
as modules. The external walls, where they are loadbearing, can
secondary system, consist of modules. Distinguishing the mod-
be a combination of loadbearing structure and building enve-
ules of a building is simple, as long as the separation of functions
lope. If these functions are separate, the parts can also be de-
is reflected in separate modules: a roof functions as weather
scribed as modules: the loadbearing structure on the one hand
protection, floor slabs carry the floor loads and separate the sto-
and the façade on the other (10–12). Modules are assembled from elements. Creating modules, such as a floor structure, involves assembling individual elements, such as floor beams, boards, insulation, ceiling soffit and
10
Whole building The complete building, consisting of modules and elements, in its assembled form.
flooring. The same applies to roof structures, which are made out of structural members, insulation, roofing membrane and roof covering.
11
The building can be divided into systems Separate functions, such as the loadbearing structure or the building envelope, are assigned to the structural primary system and the façade secondary system.
12
The building can be divided into elements The individual elements combine to form the module.
TH E COM PON E NTS: SYSTE M S, MODU LE S AN D E LE M E NTS
101