U.S. patent application number 11/279198 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-16 for customizable saferoom and method for making same.
Invention is credited to Michael R. Bence, Edward P. Michels.
Application Number | 20060254166 11/279198 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37417715 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060254166 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Michels; Edward P. ; et
al. |
November 16, 2006 |
CUSTOMIZABLE SAFEROOM AND METHOD FOR MAKING SAME
Abstract
According to one embodiment of the invention, a customizable
saferoom includes a ceiling panel, a first wall panel having a
first set of dimensions, a second wall panel having a second set of
dimensions, a third wall panel having a third set of dimensions,
and a fourth wall panel having a fourth set of dimensions. Each of
the ceiling panel and the first, second, third, and fourth wall
panels are coupled to at least one other of the ceiling panel, the
first, second, third, and fourth wall panels to form an enclosed
structure. The first, second, third, and fourth sets of dimensions
are selected to optimize the volumetric capacity of the enclosed
structure within the confines of a pre-existing space within a
building.
Inventors: |
Michels; Edward P.;
(Claremore, OK) ; Bence; Michael R.; (Owasso,
OK) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BAKER BOTTS L.L.P.
2001 ROSS AVENUE
SUITE 600
DALLAS
TX
75201-2980
US
|
Family ID: |
37417715 |
Appl. No.: |
11/279198 |
Filed: |
April 10, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60671451 |
Apr 11, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
52/270 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y02A 50/00 20180101;
Y02A 50/14 20180101; E04H 9/14 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
052/270 |
International
Class: |
E04B 1/00 20060101
E04B001/00 |
Claims
1. A customizable saferoom comprising: a ceiling panel; a first
wall panel having a first set of dimensions; a second wall panel
having a second set of dimensions; a third wall panel having a
third set of dimensions; a fourth wall panel having a fourth set of
dimensions; and wherein each of the ceiling panel and the first,
second, third, and fourth wall panels are coupled to at least one
other of the ceiling panel and the first, second, third, and fourth
wall panels to form an enclosed structure, the first, second,
third, and fourth sets of dimensions are selected to optimize the
volumetric capacity of the enclosed structure within the confines
of a pre-existing space within a building.
2. The customizable saferoom of claim 1, wherein: at least one of
the first, second, third, and fourth wall panels has a height that
is less than a height of at least one other of the first, second,
third, and fourth wall panels; and at least a portion of the
ceiling panel is sloped relative to a foundation upon which the
customizable saferoom is assembled.
3. The customizable saferoom of claim 2, wherein the portion of the
ceiling panel that is sloped is configured for placement beneath a
stairwell.
4. The customizable saferoom of claim 1, wherein each of the first,
second, third, and fourth wall panels comprise a plurality of panel
portions, each panel portion coupled to at least one other adjacent
panel portion.
5. The customizable saferoom of claim 4, wherein the plurality of
panel portions are selected from the group consisting of
U-channels, C-channels, and angles.
6. The customizable saferoom of claim 1, wherein at least one of
the first, second, third, and fourth wall panels comprise an
ingress through which the enclosed structure may be entered and
exited.
7. The customizable saferoom of claim 6, wherein the ingress
comprises a door assembly.
8. The customizable saferoom of claim 7, wherein the door assembly
is configured to open into the interior of the enclosed
structure.
9. The customizable saferoom of claim 7, wherein the door assembly
comprises a locking mechanism allowing the door assembly to be
locked from the interior of the enclosed structure.
10. The customizable saferoom of claim 7, wherein the door assembly
comprises at least one bar and cradle locking mechanism allowing
the door assembly to be locked from the interior of the enclosed
structure.
11. The customizable saferoom of claim 7, wherein the door assembly
comprises a locking mechanism allowing the door assembly to be
locked from the exterior of the enclosed structure.
12. The customizable saferoom of claim 1, wherein the ceiling panel
comprises a ventilation system operable to allow air to circulate
to and from the enclosed structure.
13. A customizable saferoom adaptable for an irregular space,
comprising: a first sidewall comprising a first portion and a
second portion, the first portion of the first sidewall having a
height that is greater than a height of the second portion of the
first sidewall; a second sidewall comprising a first portion and a
second portion, the first portion of the second sidewall having a
height that is greater than a height of the second portion of the
second sidewall panel; a first endwall and a second endwall, the
first endwall having a height that is greater than a height of the
second endwall; a ceiling panel comprising a substantially flat
portion and substantially sloped portion; and wherein each of the
first and second sidewalls, first and second endwalls, and ceiling
panel are configured to be coupled to at least another of the first
and second sidewalls, first and second endwalls, and ceiling panel
to form an enclosed structure.
14. The customizable saferoom of claim 13, wherein the portion of
the ceiling panel that is sloped is configured for placement
beneath a stairwell.
15. The customizable saferoom of claim 13, wherein at least one of
the ceiling, first sidewall, second sidewall, first endwall, and
second endwall comprises an ingress through which the enclosed
structure may be entered and exited.
16. The customizable saferoom of claim 15, wherein the ingress
comprises a door assembly configured to open into the interior of
the enclosed structure.
17. The customizable saferoom of claim 16, wherein the door
assembly comprises a locking mechanism allowing the door assembly
to be locked from the interior of the enclosed structure.
18. The customizable saferoom of claim 16, wherein the door
assembly comprises a locking mechanism allowing the door assembly
to be locked from the exterior of the enclosed structure.
19. The customizable saferoom of claim 13, wherein the ceiling
panel comprises a ventilation system operable to allow air to
circulate to and from the enclosed structure.
20. The customizable saferoom of claim 13, further comprising a
ceiling frame configured to couple the ceiling panel to each of the
first and second sidewall panels and the first and second endwall
panels to form the enclosed structure
21. The customizable saferoom of claim 13, further comprising a
base frame configured to couple to each of the first and second
sidewall panels and the first and second endwall panels, the base
frame further configured to anchor the enclosed structure to a
foundation.
22. A method for assembling a customizable saferoom upon a
foundation, comprising: coupling a first sidewall to a ceiling
panel; coupling a second sidewall to the ceiling panel; coupling a
first endwall to the first and second sidewalls; and coupling a
second endwall to the first and second sidewalls and the ceiling
panel; and wherein when coupled at least one of the first sidewall,
the second sidewall, the first endwall, and the second endwall have
a height that is less than a height of at least one other of the
first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first endwall, and the
second endwall such that at least a portion of the ceiling panel is
substantially non-parallel to a foundation upon which the
customizable saferoom is assembled.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.119
of provisional application Ser. No. 60/671,451, filed Apr. 11,
2005.
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to saferoom construction, and more
particularly to a customizable saferoom for assembly in irregular
and existing spaces and method for making same.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Saferooms, which may be installed in residences, businesses,
and other buildings, are used to shelter inhabitants from violent
storms and intruders. In contrast, to a storm shelter, which is
generally constructed below the ground's surface and is external to
the building with which it is associated, a saferoom forms a secure
space within the internal confines of the building. Although a
saferoom may be constructed above or below the building's
foundation, such construction is difficult where the building is a
pre-existing structure and, thus, must be adapted for the inclusion
of the saferoom.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] According to one embodiment of the invention, a customizable
saferoom includes a ceiling panel, a first wall panel having a
first set of dimensions, a second wall panel having a second set of
dimensions, a third wall panel having a third set of dimensions,
and a fourth wall panel having a fourth set of dimensions. Each of
the ceiling panel and the first, second, third, and fourth wall
panels are coupled to at least one other of the ceiling panel, the
first, second, third, and fourth wall panels to form an enclosed
structure. The first, second, third, and fourth sets of dimensions
are selected to optimize the volumetric capacity of the enclosed
structure within the confines of a pre-existing space within a
building.
[0005] Particular embodiments of the present invention provide one
or more technical advantages. Some embodiments may benefit from
some, none, or all of these advantages. One technical advantage may
be that a customizable saferoom may be assembled beneath a
stairwell or in another irregularly shaped space of an existing
structure. As a result, an existing structure may be adapted to
include a saferoom in a closet or other wasted, and possibly
previously inaccessible, space beneath a stairwell. Another
technical advantage may be that the structural integrity of the
space may be improved by the inclusion of the customizable
saferoom. For example, the additional structure of the customizable
saferoom may be resistant to displacement during a tornado or other
violent storm. As a result, the customizable saferoom may protect
inhabitants of the customizable saferoom from being picked
physically displaced by the storm. Additionally, the customizable
saferoom may protect inhabitants from debris circulating in the air
during the storm. A further technical advantage may be that the
customizable saferoom may be used for purposes other than for
protection against tornadoes and other violent storms. For example,
because a customizable saferoom provides a secure area within a
dwelling or other building, a customizable saferoom may be used as
a panic room to protect inhabitants of the building in the case of
an invasion.
[0006] Other technical advantages may be readily apparent to those
skilled in the art from the following figures, description and
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] For a more complete understanding of the present invention
and for further features and advantages, reference is now made to
the following description, taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, in which:
[0008] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exterior view
of a customizable saferoom, according to an embodiment of the
present invention;
[0009] FIGS. 2A-2C are schematic diagrams illustrating various
panels and components for forming a customizable saferoom,
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0010] FIGS. 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams illustrating example
arrangements of sidewall and endwall panels for the assembly of a
customizable saferoom, according to certain embodiments of the
present invention; and
[0011] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an interior view
of a secure ingress within a customizable saferoom, according to an
embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0012] It is generally recognized that a closet or other interior
room without windows is the safest room in the house for seeking
shelter from a violent storm. This is especially true of the space
that lies immediately below a stairwell since the stairwell is
generally able to withstand greater wind speeds in a violent storm
such as a tornado. The structural integrity of the space may be
improved, however, with the inclusion of a customizable saferoom.
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exterior view of a
customizable saferoom 10, according to an embodiment of the present
invention. As illustrated, customizable saferoom 10 is configured
for assembly in a pre-existing space such as under a stairwell 24
or within another small space. The additional structure added by
customizable saferoom 10 is resistant to displacement during a
tornado or other violent storm. As a result, customizable saferoom
10 may protect inhabitants of customizable saferoom 10 from being
picked up and tossed around during the storm. Additionally,
customizable saferoom 10 may protect inhabitants from debris
circulating in the air during the storm. Furthermore, because
customizable saferoom 10 provides a secure area within a dwelling
or other building, customizable saferoom 10 may be used as a panic
room to protect inhabitants of the building in the case of an
invasion.
[0013] Customizable saferoom 10 includes a plurality of panels 12
formed of heavy gauge steel or another suitable high-strength
material. Such panels 12 may include one or more ceiling panels
12a, one or more sidewall panels 12b, one or more endwall panels
12c, and one or more floor panels (not shown). As will be described
in more detail with regard to FIGS. 2A-2C, panels 12 may be
C-shaped, U-shaped, L-shaped, I-shaped, flat, or any combination of
the above. In particular embodiments, the shape of each panel 12
may be selected based on its ability to be coupled to other panels
12 and to any other components of customizable saferoom 10. In
particular embodiments, panels 12 may be on the order of 3/16''
thick. In other embodiments, panels 12 may be on the order of 1/4''
thick. It is recognized, however, that all dimensions described in
this document are provided for example purposes only; any
appropriate dimensions may be used in the construction of
customizable saferoom 10 and its components. Accordingly,
customizable saferoom may include panels 12 of any thickness
suitable for providing a desired amount of structural integrity to
withstand violent storms or intrusions.
[0014] Customizable saferoom 10 also includes one or more frame
portions 14 for coupling panels 12 to one another and to other
components of customizable saferoom 10. Frame portions 14 may be
formed of heavy gauge steel or another suitable high-strength
material. As illustrated in FIG. 1, customizable saferoom 10
includes two frame portions 14a and 14b. In particular embodiments,
a first frame portion 14a may comprise one or more L-shaped pieces
that are configured to couple customizable saferoom 10 to a
foundation 18 or other supporting structure. Thus, first frame
portion 14a may form the base frame of customizable saferoom 10. A
second frame portion 14b may form a ceiling frame for customizable
saferoom 10 and may be configured similarly to first frame portion
14a. Thus, second frame portion 14b may include one or more
L-shaped pieces that are configured to couple to any sidewall
panels 12b, endwall panels 12c, or ceiling panels 12a, as is
appropriate.
[0015] To provide structural integrity to customizable saferoom 10,
frames 14 and panels 12, which form customizable saferoom 10, are
coupled to one another using a plurality of high-strength fasteners
20 and 22. In particular embodiments, fasteners 20 and 22 may
include may include bolts and nuts, rivets, welding, or other
suitable high-strength fasteners. In particular embodiments,
fasteners 20 and 22 may include bolts and nuts having a diameter on
the order of 1/2 inch. However, the dimensions of fasteners 20 and
22 are provided for example purposes only; it is generally
recognized that any type and size of high strength fastener that is
suitable for providing structural integrity to the components of
customizable saferoom 10 during a violent storm or intrusion may be
utilized for the construction of customizable saferoom 10.
[0016] To accommodate high strength fasteners 20 and 22, first and
second frame portions 14a and 14b may include preformed holes or
slots through which first and second frame portions 14a and 14b may
be coupled to other components of customizable saferoom 10. For
example, first frame portion 14a may include preformed holes or
slots through which anchor bolts 16 or other fasteners may be used
to secure customizable saferoom 10 to foundation 18. For the
further assembly of customized saferoom 10, first frame portion 14a
may also include preformed holes or slots through which fasteners
20 may be used to couple any adjacent sidewall panels 12b, endwall
panels 12c, or floor panels (not shown) to first frame portion 14a.
Similarly, second frame portion 14b may include preformed holes or
slots through which fasteners 22 may be used to couple any adjacent
sidewall panels 12b, endwall panels 12c, or ceiling panels 12a to
second frame portion 14b.
[0017] In the illustrated embodiment, customizable saferoom 10 is
configured for installation beneath a stairwell 24. As discussed
above, it is generally recognized that the area beneath a stairwell
is one of the more structurally sound areas within a structure.
However, such areas often include a closet that is used for storage
or, even worse, is inaccessible wasted space. Customizable saferoom
10, however, is configured to be placed beneath stairwell 24 in a
pre-existing closet or other adaptable and irregular space. For
adaptation to the irregular space beneath stairwell 24, the
illustrated customizable safe room 10 includes at least one ceiling
panel 12a that includes a sloped portion 26 at an end 28 furthest
from an ingress point 30 to customizable saferoom 10. Thus, end 28
of customizable saferoom 10 is configured for placement beneath one
or more steps of stairwell 24 that are closer to the foundation 18
on which customizable saferoom 10 is installed. In the illustrated
embodiment, ceiling panel 12a of customizable saferoom 10 also
includes a flat portion 32 that is substantially parallel to
foundation 18 beneath customizable saferoom 10. In particular
embodiments, the area beneath flat portion 32 may provide the
greatest height dimension within customizable saferoom 10.
[0018] In particular embodiments, customizable saferoom 10 may
include a ventilation system 34 providing for the circulation of
air to and from customizable saferoom 10. For example, ventilation
system 34 may include vents in one or more of the panels 12 of
customizable saferoom 10. Additionally or alternatively,
ventilation system 34 may include a fan or other mechanical device
for removing stale air and adding fresh air to customizable
saferoom 10. In particular embodiments, ventilation system 34 may
be debris resistant to prevent the passage of storm-carried debris
into customizable saferoom 10.
[0019] Although customizable saferoom 10 is described as being
configured for placement beneath a stairwell 24, it is recognized
that the particular configuration of the panels 12 forming
customizable saferoom 10, as illustrated in FIG. 1, is merely one
example configuration. Customizable saferoom 10 may be of any
desired configuration and is said to be "customizable" since the
saferoom 10 may be customized depending upon the size and shape of
the space in which customizable saferoom 10 is installed. For
example, where customizable saferoom 10 is designed to be placed
within an L-shaped closet, customizable saferoom 10 may likewise
have an L-shaped configuration. As another example, where
customizable saferoom is designed to be placed beneath a set of
stairs 24, as shown in FIG. 1, the ceiling panel of customizable
saferoom may also be stair-stepped to mate with the underside of
the stairs. As another example still, it is generally recognized
that ingress 30 to customizable saferoom 10, though shown on an
endwall 12c, may likewise be included on a sidewall 12b where
appropriate. Alternatively, it may be desirable to incorporate
ingress 30 into ceiling panel 12a. Thus, ingress 30 may form a
hatch that is accessible from the top floor of stairwell 24 or from
a landing of stairwell 24.
[0020] Furthermore, although described as being customizably
configured for placement within a pre-existing space, it is
recognized that the customizable saferoom 10 of in FIG. 1 may also
be easily incorporated into a residence or other building during
construction. The shape may vary depending upon the design of the
building. As another possible modification, the panels 12 forming
customizable saferoom 10 may be sealed or otherwise treated with a
protective coating. In particular embodiments, for example, panels
12 may include an epoxy coating that is resistant to rust or other
corrosion. Such a protective coating may be desirable where it is
anticipated that exterior surfaces of customizable saferoom 10 may
come into contact with water, minerals, and other damaging
elements. Alternatively, a protective coating may be desirable
where a durable and finished look is desired.
[0021] FIGS. 2A-C illustrate schematic diagrams of various
components for forming a customizable saferoom 10, according to an
embodiment of the present invention. Although the components of
FIGS. 2A-C may be described as being of particular shapes and
dimensions, it is understood that such shapes and dimensions are
provided as a mere example of a particular customizable saferoom
10. As described above, the dimensions of the components may vary,
as required, to maximize the size of customizable saferoom 10
within the area in which customizable saferoom 10 is installed.
[0022] Specifically, FIG. 2A illustrates a base frame 100 that may
be configured, as described above, for the anchoring of
customizable saferoom 10 to foundation 18 or other supporting
structure beneath customizable saferoom 10. As illustrated, base
frame 100 comprises four L-shaped frame portions 102a-d that are
coupled to one another to form a substantially rectangular area 104
within base frame 100. In a particular embodiment, each frame
portion 102a-d may include an L-shaped angle formed of heavy gauge
steel. Thus, each frame portion 102a-d may include two legs 106a
and 106b that form a right angle. In particular embodiments, legs
106a and 106b may each have a length on the order of approximately
4 inches. Although shown rectangular, the size and shape of area
104 may vary depending upon the shape of the area in which saferoom
10 is to be placed.
[0023] A first leg 106a may be positioned such that it is
substantially parallel and adjacent to foundation 18. For the
anchoring of base frame 100 to foundation 18, first leg 106a
includes preformed holes or slots 108 for receiving anchor bolts to
attach base frame 100 to foundation 18. In particular embodiments,
high strength 5/8 inch anchor bolts may be used to anchor base
frame 100 to foundation 18. Accordingly, in particular embodiments,
holes 108 may have a diameter on the order of approximately 5/8
inch. In another embodiments, high strength 3/4 inch anchor bolts
may be used to anchor base frame 100 to foundation 18. As a result,
holes 108 may have a corresponding diameter on the order of
approximately 3/4''.
[0024] Second leg 106b of base frame 100 may be configured similar
to first leg 106a. However, when installed, second leg 106b may be
substantially perpendicular to foundation 18. Accordingly, second
leg 106b may be used to couple base frame 100 to the panels 12
forming the walls of saferoom 10. For the coupling of second leg
106b to panels 12, second leg 106b may include preformed holes or
slots 110 for receiving high-strength fasteners, such as
high-strength fasteners 20 and 22 described above with respect to
FIG. 1. Thus, in particular embodiments, second leg 106b may
include preformed holes 110 that have a diameter on the order of
approximately 1/2 inch for receiving 1/2 inch anchor bolts.
[0025] FIG. 2B illustrates one side of a top frame 200 that may be
configured, as described above, for coupling the walls 12b and 12c
of customizable saferoom 10 to ceiling panel 12a. As illustrated,
top frame 200 comprises four or more L-shaped frame portions 202a-d
that are coupled to one another to form two substantially planar
areas 204a and 204b within top frame 200. Similar to base frame
100, it is generally recognized that the size and shape of planar
areas 204a-b may vary depending upon the shape of the area in which
saferoom 10 is to be placed. As discussed above, the illustrated
shape may be particularly suited for the placement of customizable
saferoom 10 in an irregular space such as beneath a stairwell.
[0026] In a particular embodiment, each frame portion 202a-d may
include an L-shaped angle formed of heavy gauge steel. Thus, each
frame portion 202a-d may include two legs 206a and 206b that form a
right angle with one another. In particular embodiments, legs 206a
and 206b may each have a length on the order of approximately 4
inches. A first leg 206a may be positioned such that it is
substantially parallel to foundation 18. Thus, first leg 206a may
couple to ceiling panel 12a and may include preformed holes or
slots 208 for receiving high-strength fasteners for the coupling of
first leg 206a to ceiling panel 12a. In particular embodiments,
high strength 5/8 inch bolts may be used to couple top frame 200 to
ceiling panel 12a. Accordingly, in particular embodiments, holes
208 may have a diameter on the order of approximately 5/8 inch. In
another embodiments, high strength 3/4 inch bolts may be used to
couple top frame 200 to ceiling panel 12a. As a result, holes 208
may have a corresponding diameter on the order of approximately 3/4
inch.
[0027] Second leg 206b of top frame 200 may be configured similar
to first leg 206a. However, when installed, second leg 206b may be
substantially perpendicular to foundation 18 and ceiling panel 12a
and substantially parallel to the wall panels 12b-c. Accordingly,
second leg 206b may be used to couple top frame 200 to the panels
12b-c forming the walls of customizable saferoom 10. To enable such
couplings, second leg 206b may include preformed holes or slots 210
for receiving high-strength fasteners, such as high-strength
fasteners 20 and 22 described above with respect to FIG. 1. Where
fasteners 20 and 22 have a diameter on the order of approximately
1/2 inch, second leg 206b may include preformed holes 210 that have
a diameter on the order of approximately 1/2 inch to accommodate
fasteners 20 and 22.
[0028] As described above, top frame 200 forms two substantially
planar areas 204a and 204b within top frame 200. When installed to
form customizable saferoom 10, planar area 204a is substantially
parallel to foundation 18a and couples to a flat portion 32 of
ceiling panel 12a. By contrast, planar area 204b is sloped from
planar area 204a toward foundation 18b and couples to a sloped
portion 26 of ceiling panel 12a. Thus, the height of customizable
saferoom 10 is greater beneath top frame portion 202d than beneath
top frame portion 202c. The described embodiment may be appropriate
for placing a customizable saferoom 10 that includes top frame 200
or a top frame similar to top frame 200 beneath a stairwell or
other irregular surface within the house or other building. For
example, planar area 204a of top frame 200 may be positioned in a
stairwell beneath a lower portion of steps.
[0029] FIG. 2C illustrates a sidewall panel 300 according to a
particular embodiment. Although a sidewall panel may be formed from
a single piece of metal or other suitable material, the illustrated
sidewall panel 300 is comprised of multiple sidewall portions 302.
For example, in the illustrated embodiment, sidewall panel 300 is
comprised of four sidewall portions 302a-d and each sidewall
portion 302a-d is configured to be coupled to at least one adjacent
sidewall portion 302a-d. Sidewall portions 302a-d may each be
C-shaped, U-shaped, or of another appropriate configuration that
allows for the coupling together of adjacent sidewall portions
302a-d. C-shaped and U-shaped panels may be particularly suitable
for coupling to one another since such portions include legs 303a
and 303b. Legs 303a-b of adjacent C-shaped or U-shaped panels may
be positioned proximate to each other, and preformed holes or slots
formed through the legs of C-shaped or U-shaped panels may be
aligned. To couple to adjacent sidewall portions 302a-d, fasteners
such as bolts may be inserted through the aligned preformed holes
or slots.
[0030] As illustrated, sidewall portions 302a and 302b are
substantially rectangular and correspond generally with the tallest
portion of customizable saferoom 10. In a particular embodiment,
sidewall portions 302a and 302b comprise C-channel members that
each have a width on the order of approximately 20 3/16 inches and
a length on the order of 72 inches. Thus, if a customizable
saferoom 10 is constructed using a sidewall panel 300, such as that
illustrated in FIG. 2C, the tallest portion of sidewall panel 300
may be approximately 6 feet tall.
[0031] Sidewall portions 302a and 302b each include two preformed
slots 304 along a top edge 306. In particular embodiments, top edge
306 of panel 300 is placed proximate the ceiling and ceiling frame
of customizable saferoom 10. As illustrated, top edge 306 includes
a substantially flat portion that is parallel to the opposing
bottom edge 310, which is placed proximate the foundation 18 and
base frame 14a of customizable saferoom 10. Similar to top edge
306, sidewall portions 302a and 302b each include two preformed
slots 308 along a bottom edge 310. In particular embodiments, where
sidewall portions 302a and 302b have a width of approximately 20
3/16 inches, preformed slots 304 and 308 may be positioned such
that they are approximately 6 inches from the center line 312 and
314 of sidewall portions 302a and 302b, respectively.
[0032] In contrast to sidewall portions 302a and 302b, sidewall
portion 302c includes a top edge 318 that includes a flat portion
and a sloped portion. The sloped portion corresponds generally with
the slope of the ceiling frame. Where customizable saferoom 10 is
configured for installation beneath a stairwell and includes a
ceiling having both a sloped portion and a flat portion, sidewall
portion 302c may be used to form the portion of the sidewall 300
that is adjacent to and couples to the portion of the ceiling or
top frame that transitions from a substantially flat portion to a
substantially sloped portion. Thus, sidewall portion 302c is a
transition portion of sidewall 300.
[0033] In a particular embodiment, sidewall portion 302c includes a
C-channel member having a width on the order of approximately 20
3/16 inches. The longer edge of sidewall portion 302c has a length
on the order of approximately 72 inches. The opposing edge may vary
depending upon the width of the sidewall portion 302c and the slope
of the ceiling panel. In one example embodiment, the length of the
opposing edge may be on the order of approximately 60 inches. Like
sidewall portions 302a and 302b, sidewall portion 302c includes two
preformed slots 316 along a top edge 318 and two preformed slots
320 along a bottom edge 322. In particular embodiments, where
sidewall portion 302c has a width of approximately 20 3/16 inches,
preformed slots 316 and 320 may be positioned such that they are
approximately 6 inches from the center line 316 of sidewall portion
302c.
[0034] Sidewall portion 302d comprises a sloped portion and, in the
illustrated embodiment, is placed proximate to the shortest endwall
12c of customizable saferoom 10. Thus, the longer side of sidewall
portion 302d couples to transition sidewall portion 302c, and the
shorter side of sidewall portion 302d couples to and endwall panel
such as endwall panel 23c. The slope of the top edge 326 of
sidewall portion 302d corresponds generally with the slope of the
ceiling frame and the slope of the stairwell or other irregular
surface under which the customizable saferoom is placed.
Accordingly, sidewall portion 302d may be used to form a portion of
sidewall 300 that is adjacent to and couples to the portion of the
ceiling or top frame that is sloped relative to the supporting
foundation.
[0035] Similar to sidewall portions 302a-c, sidewall portion 302d
may include a C-channel member having a width on the order of
approximately 20 3/16 inches in particular embodiments. For
coupling to sidewall portion 302d, the longest side of sidewall
portion 302d may have a length on the order of approximately 60
inches, and the shortest side may have a length on the order of
approximately 45 inches. Like sidewall portions 302a-c, sidewall
portion 302d includes two preformed slots 324 along a top edge 326
and two preformed slots 328 along a bottom edge 330. In particular
embodiments where sidewall portion 302d has a width of
approximately 20 3/16 inches, preformed slots 324 and 328 may be
positioned such that they are approximately 6 inches from the
center line 332 of sidewall portion 302d.
[0036] The dimensions described above are appropriate for the
construction of a customized saferoom has a length of approximately
81 inches, as measured from endwall to endwall. The dimensions
provided, however, are merely one example embodiment. As stated
above, dimensions may vary based on the size of the area housing
the customizable saferoom 10. Similarly, the number of portions
forming a panel, such as sidewall 300, may also vary based on the
desired dimensions of the customizable saferoom 10. Thus, it is
recognized that a sidewall may have fewer or more panel portions
than the illustrated four, and the top edge of each panel portion
may be configured as necessary for the space provided. Furthermore,
although FIG. 2C illustrates a sidewall, specifically, it is
recognized that an endwall of customizable saferoom 10 may be
constructed to have features similar to those described above with
respect to sidewall panel 300.
[0037] As a further modification, although sidewall 300 is not
illustrated as including an ingress, the panel portions may be
modified to accommodate a side ingress. FIG. 3A illustrates an
example configuration of a customizable saferoom 400 having a side
ingress 402 in a first sidewall 404. Sidewall 404 is formed from
two U-shaped portions 406 and 408 and an L-shaped portion 410.
Adjacent legs of the sidewall portions 406, 408, and 410 are
coupled by fasteners 412 that extend through aligned preformed
holes in each adjacent leg similar to that described above with
regard to FIG. 2C. A gap in first sidewall 404 corresponds with the
placement of an ingress 402, which may accommodate a door similar
to that which will be described below with regard to FIG. 4.
Additional preformed holes or slots may be disposed proximate a top
edge of each of sidewall portions 406, 408, 410 for coupling
sidewall portions 406, 408, and 410 to the ceiling or top frame.
Conversely, preformed holes or slots disposed proximate a bottom
edge of the sidewall portions 406, 408, and 410 may be used to
couple sidewall portions 406, 408, and 410 to the base frame.
[0038] A second sidewall 414 is formed similar to first sidewall
404 but does not include a gap for an ingress. Specifically, in the
illustrated embodiment, second sidewall 414 is formed from four
U-shaped portions 416, 418, 420, and 424. Adjacent legs of the
U-shaped portions 416, 418, 420, and 424 are coupled by fasteners
426 that extend through aligned preformed holes in each adjacent
leg. Additional preformed holes or slots may be disposed proximate
a top edge of each of sidewall portions 416, 418, 420, and 424 for
coupling sidewall portions 416, 418, 420, and 424 to the ceiling or
top frame. Similarly, preformed holes or slots disposed proximate a
bottom edge of the sidewall portions 416, 418, 420, and 424 may be
used to couple sidewall portions 416, 418, 420, and 424 to the base
frame.
[0039] First sidewall 404 and second sidewall 414 each couple to a
first endwall 428 and a second endwall 430. In the illustrated
embodiment, first and second endwall 428 and 430 are configured
similarly. Thus, only first endwall 428 will be described in
detail. In the illustrated embodiment, first endwall 428 is formed
from two L-shaped portions 432 and 434. The shorter legs of the
L-shaped portions are coupled to one another by one or more
fasteners 436 that extend through aligned preformed holes formed in
the shorter legs of the L-shaped portions. Similarly, the longer
legs of L-shaped portions 432 and 434 are coupled to first and
second sidewalls 404 and 414, respectively. Specifically, a first
endwall portion 432 is coupled to a first sidewall portion 406 of
first sidewall 404 by one or more fasteners 438. A second endwall
portion 434 is coupled to a first sidewall portion 416 of second
sidewall 414 by one or more fasteners 440. Additional preformed
holes or slots may be disposed proximate a top edge of first and
second endwall portions 432 and 434 for coupling first and second
endwall portions 432 and 434 to the ceiling or top frame.
Similarly, preformed holes or slots disposed proximate a bottom
edge of the L-shaped portions 432 and 434 may be used to couple
first and second endwall portions 432 and 434 to the base
frame.
[0040] FIG. 3B illustrates an example of an alternative
configuration of a customizable saferoom 500 having a end ingress
502 in first endwall 504. In the illustrated embodiment, first
endwall 504 is actually formed from the leg portions of sidewall
panels. Thus, construction of first endwall 504 does not require
any independently constructed panel portions. Again, the
illustrated embodiment is merely one example configuration of a
customizable saferoom 500. It is recognized that many modifications
to the illustrated configuration are possible. For example, end
ingress 502 may be centered on first endwall 504, in particular
embodiments. As another example, first endwall 504 may be formed
from straight panels, C-shaped panels, U-shaped panels, L-shaped
panels, or any combination thereof.
[0041] A second endwall 506 is formed similar to first and second
endwalls 428 and 430 of FIG. 3A. Thus, endwall 506 is formed from
two L-shaped endwall portions 508 and 510. The shorter legs of each
of the L-shaped portions 508 and 510 are coupled to one another by
one or more fasteners 512 that extend through aligned preformed
holes formed in the shorter legs of the L-shaped portions.
Similarly, the longer legs of first endwall portion 508 and second
endwall portion 510 are coupled to a first sidewall 512 and second
sidewall 514, respectively. Specifically, first endwall portion 508
is coupled to first sidewall 512 by one or more fasteners 516.
Similarly, second endwall portion 510 is coupled to second sidewall
514 of by one or more fasteners 518.
[0042] Each of sidewalls 512 and 514 may be formed similar to
second sidewall 414 of FIG. 3A and will not be described in detail
here. However, unlike sidewall 414, sidewall 512 may include a
longer leg of the U-shaped sidewall panel portion 520 that is
proximate to first endwall 504. In the illustrated embodiment, the
longer leg of the U-shaped sidewall portion 520 may form a corner
of the configurable saferoom 500. As a result, U-shaped sidewall
portion 520 may form both a portion of sidewall 514 and a portion
of first endwall 504. Specifically, the longer leg of the U-shaped
sidewall portion 514 may form a portion of first endwall 504 that
includes ingress 502.
[0043] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an interior view
of a secure ingress 500 within a customizable saferoom, according
to an embodiment of the present invention. As described above,
ingress 500 may be formed in an endwall or sidewall of the
saferoom. Additionally, it is recognized that where design
considerations make it preferable, ingress 500 may be formed in a
ceiling panel of the customizable saferoom.
[0044] Ingress 500 includes a door assembly 502 that is coupled to
adjacent panels s of the saferoom using heavy gauge hinges. As
shown, door assembly 502 includes a double-door assembly. However,
it is recognized that a single door assembly, an accordion style
door assembly, or any other suitable door assembly may be used in
alternative embodiments. Depending upon the particular embodiment
desired and the space in which the saferoom is installed,
double-door assembly 502 may open toward the interior of the
customizable saferoom or toward the exterior of the customizable
saferoom. A door assembly that opens toward the interior of the
customizable saferoom offers some benefits. For example, because
such a door may be opened from the inside, any debris outside the
doors of the saferoom will not prevent the opening of the doors.
Additionally, such a configuration allows the inhabitants of the
customizable saferoom to easily push the doors shut from the
interior of the saferoom.
[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, a first door 504a forming
double-door assembly 502 includes a lip portion 506 that is
configured to create an overlap with an adjacent second door 504b
when the door assembly is in the closed position. As a result,
debris may be prevented from entering the customizable saferoom
through a crack between first door 504a and second door 504b. For
further sealing door assembly 502, door assembly 502 includes at
least one locking mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, door
assembly 502 includes three locking mechanisms that each comprise a
bar 508 and cradle assembly 510. For example, as illustrated, two
cradle portions 510 are mounted or otherwise coupled to the
adjacent wall panel of the customizable saferoom. To seal the door
assembly, bar 508 may be positioned proximate the interior side of
first and second doors 504a-b and the respective ends of bar 508
may be slid into the two opposing cradle portions 510. When in
place, bar 508 prevents first and second doors 504a-b from being
opened from the outside.
[0046] Although FIG. 4 illustrates a locking mechanism that
includes a bar and cradle assembly, it is recognized that any
mechanism suitable for securing the door(s) of customizable
saferoom may be utilized. For example, in particular embodiments,
deadbolts may be used. The deadbolts may be in addition to or in
lieu of the bar and cradle assembly locking mechanisms illustrated
in FIG. 4. The dead bolts may be lockable from the inside, outside,
or both. When locked from the outside, the customizable saferoom
may be secured when not in use. The space may be used as storage
and because lockable may be used to store valuables, in particular
embodiments. When locked from the inside, the deadbolt may be used
by inhabitants of the customizable saferoom to secure the doors to
prevent access by anyone outside the customizable saferoom. Such
embodiments may be desirable when customizable saferoom is to be
used as a panic room in addition to or in lieu of its use as a
weather shelter. As a further modification, it is recognized that
although three locking mechanisms are depicted in the illustrated
embodiment, door assembly 502 may include any appropriate number
and combination of locking mechanisms.
[0047] Although the present invention has been described with
several embodiments, numerous changes, substitutions, variations,
alterations, transformations, and modifications may be suggested to
one skilled in the art, and it is intended that the present
invention encompass all such changes, substitutions, variations,
alterations, transformations, and modifications as fall within the
spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, although the
above described embodiments include each sidewall and endwall being
comprised of multiple panels, it is recognized that each sidewall
and endwall may be comprised of a single panel. As another example,
although the above described embodiments include a base frame and a
top frame for coupling the components of the customizable saferoom,
it is recognized that the various panels may be directly coupled to
one another and the base and top frames may be omitted from the
components forming the customizable saferoom.
* * * * *