Accommodation module
A removable volumetric unit that provides a room or other usable space and is independently supported by the accommodation frame.
ExoSett components
Structural elements
ExoSett is built around an exoskeletal accommodation frame and made up of distinct structural, accommodation, service and installation components, each with a clearly defined role.
Separating these roles allows buildings to be assembled, adapted, maintained and reconfigured without depending upon the accommodation as part of the primary load-bearing structure.
Terminology
Components, roles and interfaces
ExoSett uses precise terminology because similar-looking parts may perform very different roles within the system.
A component is a physical part of an ExoSett building. A role describes what that part does within a particular building. An interface defines how components connect, transfer loads, provide access or exchange services.
A replaceable physical part may occupy a continuing role within the building. For example, one frame node may be removed and replaced, while the frame address and structural role at that location remain unchanged.
Principal elements
The essential ExoSett components
Accommodation frame
The primary load-bearing structure that contains the cells into which accommodation modules are installed.
Service frame
A structure providing access, circulation and routes for services to modules installed in an accommodation frame.
Cell
A defined space within an accommodation frame that can host one accommodation module or remain empty.
Frame node
A structural component at an intersection in the frame geometry, connecting columns, beams and other supported components.
Frame structure
Structural frame elements
Column
Vertical structural elements that transfer loads between frame nodes and down to the foundations.
Beam
Horizontal structural elements that connect frame nodes and maintain the geometry of the frame.
Inter-node
Specialised frame nodes that provide structural connections between the principal nodes of the frame.
Lashings
Diagonal bracing that helps ExoSett frames resist lateral movement, twisting and racking.
Foundation interface
The connection between the lowest frame nodes and the site-specific foundation system.
Building envelope
Building exteriors
Roof
Weather protection and usable roof systems supported directly by the accommodation frame.
Facade
The external enclosure of an ExoSett building, providing environmental protection and architectural expression while preserving access for cassette installation and removal.
Central atrium
ExoSett buildings may be arranged around a shared central space, with their service frames facing inward and a roof spanning the combined complex.
Access and services
Connecting people, modules and utilities
Access bridge
A bridge between an accommodation module and the building’s circulation system.
Service route
An accessible, defined path for pipes, cables, ducts and other building services.
Service interface
Defined connection points between a module or shared facility and the building’s service routes.
Assembly and installation
Supporting controlled construction and change
Installation frame
Equipment that docks with the accommodation frame and supports the controlled insertion or removal of accommodation cassettes.
Module jig
A two-sided physical interface gauge used to verify modules and accommodation frames against their shared specification.
Temporary bracing
Removable bracing that stabilises the frame during assembly, alteration or dismantling.
Development
A catalogue that will grow with the system
The components described here define roles within the ExoSett system. Their detailed form, dimensions, materials and connection methods may vary between implementations.
Some components are central to every ExoSett building. Others may be required only by particular applications, structural arrangements or installation methods.
Detailed component pages record the purpose, characteristics, interfaces, variants and relationships of each part as the system develops.