Habitable Structure The present invention relates to a habitable structure, and in particular to a habitable structure comprising integrated energy and fluid distribution networks, integrated energy capture systems, and control systems therefor. Background to the invention Residential construction schemes are known which integrate services and power generation or energy capture systems. However, such schemes are limited in terms of the level of synergy achieved by the integration of these disparate services and systems. It is therefore an object of the present invention to obviate and mitigate at least one disadvantage of the prior art. Summary of the invention According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a habitable structure comprising a central support structure; one or more platforms external to the support structure; one or more floors internal to the support structure; one or more energy collection means disposed on or in the habitable structure; and one or more waste collection means disposed within the habitable structure; wherein each of the support structure, one or more platforms and one or more floors further comprise an internal arrangement of conduits; and wherein the structure further comprises a central controller configured to control the distribution of resources within the habitable structure via the arrangements of conduits. Particularly, each of the support structure, one or more platforms and one or more floors further comprise an internal arrangement of energy and fluid conduits which define a network of energy and fluid conduits throughout the habitable structure; wherein the energy collection means are configured to feed energy into the network of energy conduits and the waste collection means are configured to feed into the network of fluid conduits; and wherein the central controller is configured to control the distribution of energy and fluid within the habitable structure via the arrangements and network of energy and fluid conduits. Preferably, each of the one or more platforms are provided with one or more resource distribution hubs to which one or more additional parts of the habitable structure may connect to extract from, and/or to contribute resources to, the habitable structure. It is thereby possible to connect additional systems and devices to the integrated services of the habitable structure. Preferably, the habitable structure further comprises one or more supports adapted to support one or more platforms and provide an interface between arrangements of conduits within the one or more platforms and arrangements of conduits within the support structure. Preferably, the habitable structure further comprises energy storage means located within the support structure and adapted to store surplus resources within the habitable structure. Preferably, the central controller further comprises a display means adapted to provide a visual representation of the aggregated resources contained within the habitable structure. Preferably, the display means comprises a water fountain, wherein the height to which the water is projected by the fountain is indicative of the aggregated resources. Preferably, each of the one or more floors are provided with an aperture to allow the passage of light to a floor below. In an embodiment of the invention, this permits sunlight to penetrate through each level of the habitable structure and illuminate even the lowermost floor. Preferably, at least two of the platforms are configured to channel airflow therebetween, and wherein the energy collection means comprises at least one wind turbine located between the platforms to extract energy from the airflow. Optionally, airflow velocity is increased through a channel defined between the platforms having a diminishing cross-sectional area. Optionally, each of the one or more platforms are provided with a transparent perimeter wall. Preferably, one or more of the one or more platforms and one or more floors comprise a water table configured to manage the distribution of water within the associated platform, floor or portion thereof. Preferably, the habitable structure further comprises a weather shield configured for selective deployment in the event of adverse weather conditions. Preferably, the one or more floors comprise an arrangement of accommodation blocks around a perimeter of each floor. These accommodation blocks may provide, for example, residential and commercial spaces. Preferably, an accommodation block comprises an internal arrangement of conduits configured to communicate with corresponding arrangements of conduits in adjacent accommodation blocks and within the respective floor. Optionally, the central support structure is configured for offshore deployment. An offshore embodiment of the invention may provide a port or dock to provide a means of commuting between the habitable structure and the mainland. Optionally, the habitable structure further comprises an arrangement of turbines located at or below sea level so as to capture energy from a tidal flow or the like. The habitable structure may comprise additional services such as an internal drainage recycling system to allow liquid waste to be recycled, or an internal nutrient filter system. Other structural enhancements may include specially adapted feet to allow deployment of the habitable structure in various terrains, or an extended external platform to act as a bridge or alternatively an adapted support to provide support to an external bridge or vehicular/pedestrian link passing therethrough. Preferably, the habitable structure is a modular structure, comprising at least one platform module configured for attachment to the support structure to provide a platform external to the support structure. According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a platform module configured for attachment to the support structure of the first aspect to provide one of the external platforms. According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a floor module configured for attachment to the support structure of the first aspect to provide one of the internal floors. According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided an accommodation module configured for attachment to the support structure of the first aspect to provide an accommodation block. Embodiments of the second, third and fourth aspects of the invention may include one or more features of the first aspect of the invention or its embodiments, or vice versa. According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a community of habitable structures comprising; a plurality of habitable structures according to the first aspect; and a connection means configured to connect two or more of the plurality of habitable structures. Optionally, the connection means comprises a walkway, road, rail track, or other vehicular transport link. Embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the first aspect of the invention or its embodiments, or vice versa.

Brief description of the drawings There will now be described, by way of example only, various embodiments of the invention with reference to the drawings, of which: Figure 1 presents a schematic, aerial overview of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 presents a schematic, vertical cross-section view of the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 1 ; Figure 3 presents a schematic, vertical cross-section view of a portion of the of the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, illustrating in further detail the support structure; Figure 4 presents a schematic, vertical cross-section view of an external platform of the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2; Figure 5 presents a schematic, aerial view of an internal elevated platform of the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2; Figure 6 presents a schematic, aerial view of the lowermost internal platform of the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2; Figure 7 presents a schematic, horizontal cross-section view of the lowermost internal platform shown in Figure 6; Figure 8 presents a schematic, aerial view of the uppermost level of the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2; Figure 9 presents a schematic, vertical cross-section view of a housing block of the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2; Figure 10 presents a schematic, aerial view of the housing block shown in Figure 9; Figure 1 1 presents a schematic, bottom-up view of the housing block shown in Figures 9 and 10; Figure 12 presents a schematic, vertical cross-section view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention; Figure 13 presents a schematic, vertical cross-section view of another alternative embodiment of the present invention; Figure 14 presents a schematic, vertical cross-section view of a further alternative embodiment of the present invention; Figure 15 presents a schematic, vertical cross-section view of a yet further alternative embodiment of the present invention; Figure 16 presents a schematic, aerial view of a turbine system of the embodiments illustrated in Figures 12, 13 and 15; Figure 17 presents a schematic, aerial view of a lower section of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 14; Figure 18 presents a schematic, aerial view of an underwater section of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 14; Figure 19 presents a schematic, aerial view of a lower section of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 15; Figure 20 presents a schematic, aerial view of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 12; Figure 21 presents a schematic, aerial view of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 13; and Figure 22 presents a schematic, aerial view of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 15 Detailed description of preferred embodiments An exemplary embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in Figures 1 to 8. With particular reference to Figures 1 and 2, the habitable structure 101 can be seen to comprise a generally frusto-conical central structure 103, itself comprising a base section 105 at and/or below ground level and an elevated section 107 above ground level. The central structure 103 can be seen to comprise the majority of the physical space occupied by the habitable structure. Extending from the central structure are several vertically spaced, and circumferentially distributed, external platforms 109. The spacing and distribution of the external platforms 109 preferably maximises the exposure of each platform 109 to the elements (e.g. rain, wind and sunshine). These external platforms 109 are shown in a regular arrangement although they may of course be arranged in any beneficial manner and/or dependent on the function or intended purpose of a particular platform. Residents of the habitable structure 101 may live within communities on the external platforms 109. Furthermore, the external platforms 109 may be arranged so as to channel air flow between adjacent platforms to increase air velocity (i.e. to increase effective wind speed) therethrough. By arranging one or more turbines within this airflow, it is therefore possible to increase energy capture from wind. On each external platform is provided one or more distribution hubs 1 1 1 (see Figure 4). These distribution hubs 1 1 1 provide local interfaces to a network of energy (e.g. electricity) and fluid (e.g. water and/or waste) conduits disposed throughout the habitable structure and, in particular, extending from the central structure 103 through supports 103 (see below) and throughout the external platform. Note that local energy capture devices, for example solar panels and wind turbines, may connect to the distribution hubs 1 1 1 to contribute to the energy within the system. An optional transparent wall (not shown) may be provided around the perimeter of each platform 109 for edge protection. Furthermore, the space 161 between adjacent external platforms 109 defines channels which provide natural ventilation to the platforms 109. Each external platform 109 is supported from underneath by two platform supports 1 13 extending generally radially from the central structure 103. In addition to supporting the external platforms, the supports 1 13 provide an interface between energy and fluid conduits of the central structure 103 and energy and fluid conduits of the external platforms 109 (see Figure 3 for further detail). This interface allows energy and fluid to flow to and from each external platform 109; e.g. energy captured by a solar panel or the like on one external platform can be transferred to the central structure at the same time as a lighting system on another external platform may draw energy from the central structure. Of course, a single support of suitable construction may be employed, and the energy and fluid conduits of the external platforms may connect directly to energy and fluid conduits of the central structure rather than via the platform supports. Walkways 1 15 are provided to allow inhabitants, vehicles etc. to move between the central structure 103 and the external platforms, for example to corresponding internal platforms 1 17. These walkways 1 15 may be level with, or raised or lowered with respect to, the external platforms depending on the relative positioning of the internal 1 17 and external 109 platforms. Optionally, the walkways 1 15 extend via cylindrical passageways through the body of the central structure 103. Furthermore, a number of elevators 1 19 are provided, to which inhabitants may gain access via the walkways 1 15. The walkways are preferentially sized to accommodate the transport of goods from the central structure 103 and the elevators 1 19 to, for example, residential areas on the external platforms 109. In keeping with the ethos of the habitable structure 101 , the elevators 1 19 preferably rely on a purely counter-weight based elevation system which requires little or no consumption of external energy. Alternatively, a hydraulic or pneumatic propulsion is envisaged. Within the central structure 103 are provided a number of floors 121 , analogous to the floors in a conventional building structure. A number of accommodation blocks 123 are arranged around the perimeter of each of the floors 121 ; in this embodiment each of the accommodation blocks 123 (which may provide residential or commercial real estate) is associated with an external platform, and communicates therewith via the energy and fluid conduits of the supports 1 13. Premises within the accommodation blocks may connect directly to said energy and fluid conduits. Figure 5 illustrates such a floor. Reference numeral 167 indicates the location of the supports 1 13 for a corresponding external platform 109. Note that the habitable structure 101 is a modular structure and as such floors 121 and external platforms 109 may be added and removed, and of course repositioned, as circumstances require. Individual residential blocks 169 (see below) within the accommodation blocks 123 are shown schematically; again these may be added, removed or repositioned as required. Commercial or business premises are preferentially houses in the accommodation blocks 123 of the ground floor. The circumferential arrangement of the accommodation blocks may therefore simulate an enclosed high street. Structural support columns 125 extend from the base 105 to the top of the central structure 103 through each of the floors, and also comprise energy and fluid conduits to allow similar communication of energy and fluids between upper and lower floors (see Figure 3). In Figure 2, the support columns 125 of this embodiment can be seen to lean inwards, resulting in the previously mentioned frusto-conical shape which lends the structure strength and support. A raised portion 127 central to each of the floors 121 provides space for (in this

embodiment) central parkland, for example for recreational use. On the uppermost floor 121 , within said raised portion 127, is also provided an energy capture control system 129 which monitors, controls and maintains the capture of energy etc. from external resources (solar, wind, geothermal energy etc. and water) by devices such as solar panels, wind and water turbines, ground loops and rainwater collectors disposed on the external platforms 109 or on external surfaces of the central structure 103 itself. The energy thus captured from the environment is fed into the system of energy conduits within the entirety of the habitable structure 101 . Within each floor is also provided a hollow shaft 131 therethrough which allows the passage of sunlight to the lower floors. The first floor in particular may be provided with a means to diverge or otherwise spread light passing therethrough to provide broader illumination at the ground floor level. This sunlight not only provides natural light to inhabitants of lower levels but provides sunlight necessary for plant growth in these levels. Energy capture may also take place by disposing piezoelectric elements throughout the structure 101 , whereupon compression (e.g. by walking or taking a vehicle across a surface comprising the piezoelectric elements, or by larger compressive forces caused by movement of the larger structure due to environmental influences) generates electricity. The habitable structure 101 is provided with a central controller (shown figuratively at 139) which regulates, maintains and controls not only the capture (e.g. by controlling the energy capture control system 129) of energy but the distribution of energy, distribution of water and disposal of waste within the habitable structure. The central controller 139 regulates the supply of energy and water and collection of waste from each of the distribution hubs, and in doing so controls how each of the various resources and services are distributed amongst, for example, residential and commercial properties. The central controller 139 is provided with displays to allow engineers to monitor energy and resource levels, including interactions with the energy storage means 141 (see below), and user interfaces to allow the engineers to override the generally otherwise autonomous operation of the central controller 139. The central controller 139 also controls other services and facilities within the habitable structure 101 , for example waste disposal, drinking water supply, emergency sprinkler water supply, as well as monitoring and reacting to energy spikes and power surges that may occur. Displays of the central controller 139 may include a water fountain (actual or virtual), the height of which is representative of the energy circulating within the habitable structure 101 . The fountain provides a readily understandable representation to which it is easier to respond or at least recognise when such response is necessary. For example, the fountain may extend to a significant height when energy collection from the environment exceeds consumption and means for storing the energy become saturated; in which case engineers may react by closing off rainwater collection means, diverting electrical energy from wind turbines, solar panels and the like (e.g. to the grid) etc. Alternatively, such reactive measures may be carried out automatically by the central controller 139. In the case of an actual fountain, height can be controlled by throttling a corresponding water outlet valve or by varying the power to a corresponding water pump. The base section 105 comprises the foundation of the habitable structure 101 .

Structurally, the support columns 125 can be seen to be anchored in the foundation, along with support columns for the elevator/elevator shafts 1 19. Within the base section 105 is housed energy storage means 141 , in this case large batteries although it is envisaged that any suitable energy storage means (e.g.

ultracapacitors and the like) may be used. Surplus energy may therefore be retained rather than wasted. These energy storage means 141 are operably connected to the central controller 139 through the foundation, as are the various conduits etc. extending through the support columns 125, by which means the central controller 139 may also control the storage and extraction of energy to and from the energy storage means 141. The foundation can also be seen to house an internal water table 143 for the habitable structure. Internal water tables 145 are also provided within the external platforms 109 (as illustrated in Figure 4). These internal water tables 143,145 provide a mechanism for flood control as well as drainage from the individual external platforms 109 and floors 121 , and assist in the retention of nutrients in the associated organic soil sections 151 (see below) - filters may also be provided for this purpose. Water run-off may be aided by drainage conduits (see for example reference numeral 147). Each of the floors comprise organic soil sections 149, layered with nutrients and minerals, to permit and encourage the growth of plants, crops etc. within the central structure 103. Corresponding organic soil sections 151 are also provided on the external platforms 109, where they may interact with the distribution hubs and/or the water tables for irrigation purposes and the like. Preferably the soil is turned over on a regular basis to keep it fertile. Note that the organic soil sections 151 are preferentially segmented to aid in management and quality control as they may be monitored individually. Note that the habitable structure 101 is also configured to capture energy from forces acting upon the structure itself. Shown figuratively by reference numeral 153 (see Figure 7) movement of the structure provides a "push-pull" mechanism from which energy can be extracted; for example by piezoelectric elements, hydraulics or pneumatics. Suitable energy extraction means are well within the knowledge of the skilled person and a variety of means of doing so may be implemented. On the ground floor level, (see again Figure 7 and also Figure 6) circular channels 155 provide a means for circulation of water in the manner of a river. This can be achieved using pumps or by the flow of water entering the channels 155 in a predetermined direction. Drainage conduits 147 may be arranged to divert water run-off to the channels 155. Irrigation wells 157 are also provided, with which the river is in fluid communication. The drainage conduits 147 may alternatively divert water run-off directly to the irrigation wells 157. At the uppermost level, a weather shield (shown figuratively by reference numeral 159) is arranged for telescopic deployment, for example in the case of extreme weather conditions, when it can be used to protect the uppermost level to aid flood control and mitigate storm damage. Within the foundation is housed a number of storage pods 163 which permit storage of supplies (food, medicine etc.) for emergency purposes, e.g. in the event of the habitable structure 101 becoming inaccessible for a time. Access to the storage pods 163 is provided through access ports 165, which also provide access to the central controller 139, conduits etc. for maintenance purposes. Shown in Figure 1 (and Figures 6 and 7) is the entrance 133 to the habitable structure 101 . In the vicinity of the entrance 133 are also located a car port 135 where residents may keep their vehicles (externally to the habitable structure 101 ), a trade port 137 to which goods can be delivered and from which goods can be transported to the habitable structure 101 , and a walkway 139 which connects the car port 135, trade port 137 and habitable structure 101. Equivalent walkways connect platforms and/or floors on the same level. Said walkways may have the previously mentioned embedded piezoelectric elements. Figures 9 to 1 1 illustrate an exemplary housing block 169 of the present invention.

Conduit 171 extends from the top to the bottom of the block 169 to permit transfer of energy etc. therethrough. Of course, individual houses within the block 169 may tap into the energy and/or resources within the central conduit 171 which interfaces with like conduits of the rest of the habitable structure 101. The central conduit is also configured to provide a passageway for sunlight to pass to lower levels of the block. Transfer of natural light therethrough may be assisted by providing the interior of the conduit with a reflective coating. Energy capture devices, as represented figuratively by numeral 173, may also be integrated within the housing block 169. Large transparent (and preferably toughened) circular windows 175 provide further natural illumination. A transparent wall 177 is also provided, optionally with ventilation therethrough, for edge protection for residents. A number of doors 179 allow passage between adjacent blocks 169. The doors are preferentially shaped to minimise heat losses etc. An internal network of supports 181 provide structural strength to the block, and by optionally providing conduits therethrough, a means for networking energy, resources and waste collection throughout the block. Note that within the structure, energy may additionally be generated by channelling or funnelling rainwater flowing down the outer surfaces thereof to one or more miniature turbines (via appropriate collection means), in a similar fashion to the operation of hydroelectric power plants. After driving the turbines, the water is diverted to the foundation water table and/or the ground floor river. Waste may also be used to generate energy either through furnaces with carbon capture to minimise environmental impact or by collecting energy released from decay and decomposition (e.g. in the form methane and/or heat generated by bacteria) of waste gathered in a chamber for that purpose. The external platforms may be provided with escape pods such as life boats or gliders to enable residents of the external platforms to escape in the event of an emergency. Drawing an analogy with an organic structure, the habitable structure 101 as a whole can be seen to resemble a tree, the base section 103 resembling a tree stump, the elevated section 105 resembling a tree trunk. Continuing said analogy, the external platforms 109 can be seen to resemble leaves of a tree, harnessing resources from the surroundings, and the network of conduits resemble capillaries which transport said resources throughout the tree. Furthermore, the modular construction permits the structure 101 to grow as necessary. Alternative embodiments 201 ,301 ,401 ,501 of a habitable structure according to the present invention are illustrated in Figures 12 to 15. Like reference numerals are adopted to relate to corresponding features of the habitable structure 101 described above, which function in a similar manner unless otherwise stated below. Note that aerial views are presented in Figures 20 to 22 to assist in understanding these embodiments of the present invention. The habitable structure 201 shown in Figure 12 includes modifications to the habitable structure 101 of Figure 1 to suit an offshore deployment, with the intention of addressing commercial, residential and infrastructure needs. The habitable structure 301 shown in Figure 13 has been further modified to accommodate a bridge 302 (see also Figure 21 ). In both cases, the external platforms 209,309 are modified in shape to aid offshore stability. As before, residents of the habitable structure may live within communities on the external platforms 209,309. Distribution hubs 21 1 ,31 1 are provided to provide local interfaces to the network of conduits arranged throughout the central structure 203,303, the supports 213,313, and the floors 221 ,321 . Such bridge embodiments permit the passage therethrough of a road, rail track or the like, thus providing an alternative means of transporting people and goods to and from the habitable structure. Furthermore, a number of such embodiments may be effectively "networked" by way of a road, rail track or the like extending through multiple habitable structures. This is particularly envisaged in the case of the offshore embodiments however it will be readily appreciated that onshore equivalents are equally possible and In these alternative embodiments, the central controller 239,339 is located at the uppermost level of the habitable structure 201 ,301 , primarily because of the offshore deployment although a suitably configured controller could feasibly be disposed within the "foundations" of these alternative embodiments. The elevated central controller 239,339 is optionally provided with energy directly from a connected alternative energy source (shown figuratively by reference numerals 240,340). Also connected thereto is a centrally disposed elevator 220,320 in addition to elevators 219,319. Alternative embodiments 401 ,501 illustrated in Figures 14 and 15 also comprise centrally disposed elevators 420,520 and an elevated central controller 439,539. Note that while Figure 14 illustrates an offshore deployment, Figure 15 is a land-based deployment (although the necessary modifications to adapt one or the other for the alternative deployment will be readily understood from the present description). Atop the central controllers 239,339,439,539 the alternative energy source 240,340,440,540 is an arrangement of solar panels adapted to generate electrical energy from sunlight. Furthermore, within the embodiments shown in Figures 12, 13 and 15, an integrated turbine system 242,342,542 is provided (see below) within the central structure 203,303,503 of the habitable structures, whereas the embodiment shown in Figure 14 comprises a submerged level 444 (see below). Whereas in the habitable structure 101 presented in Figure 1 the central controller 129 may comprise a display taking the form of a water fountain, displays of the central controllers 229,329,429,529 may take the form of a circular arrangement of smaller water fountains arranged around the central controller on the uppermost floor. As mentioned above, in Figures 12, 13 and 15, an integrated turbine system 242,342,542 is provided. The turbines 246,346,546 are disposed within the system to capture energy from tidal and or current flows (246 and 346) or from wind (546). Energy thus captured is integrated into the overall system by the central controllers 239,439,539. Figure 16 illustrates such a turbine arrangement from an aerial view. Foundation sections of the elevator shafts 219,319,519 lend structural support at this level, as do columns

225,325,525 which also comprise conduits to allow transport of energy to upper levels of the structure. Figure 18 illustrates a submerged level of the structure 401 illustrated in Figure 14.

Although submerged, it corresponds with the ground level of the structure 101 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2. The central portion 427 of this floor may comprise (by way of example only) a cafe or restaurant for visitors to the submerged part of the structure 401 . This level is accessible via elevators 419. Figure 19 illustrates the "ground floor" of the structure 501 illustrated in Figure 15. The invention provides a habitable structure having a network of energy, fluid and waste conduits disposed throughout, the operation of which is controlled by a central controller. The habitable structure comprises a number of external platforms to accommodate residential structures and by various means collect energy and resources from the environment in a variety of forms. The collection of energy is similarly controlled centrally. Parts of the habitable structure may connect to resource distribution hubs to extract from, and/or to contribute resources to, the habitable structure. The habitable structure may be configured for offshore deployment, modular deployment, or deployment within a community of like inter-linked habitable structures. Throughout the specification, unless the context demands otherwise, the terms 'comprise' or 'include', or variations such as 'comprises' or 'comprising', 'includes' or 'including' will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers, but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers. The foregoing description of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. The described embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilise the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. Therefore, further modifications or improvements may be incorporated without departing from the scope of the invention defined by the appended claims.