U.S. patent application number 15/651012 was filed with the patent office on 2018-04-05 for mobile service block system and method.
The applicant listed for this patent is LES MODULES ECOLOGIQUES MOVE HOME INC.. Invention is credited to Pierre LECLERC.
Application Number | 20180094425 15/651012 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54769132 |
Filed Date | 2018-04-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180094425 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
LECLERC; Pierre |
April 5, 2018 |
MOBILE SERVICE BLOCK SYSTEM AND METHOD
Abstract
A mobile service block system including prefabricated bathroom,
kitchen and other service room units in a single compact and mobile
form for installation and use in buildings. The mobile service
block system includes a base frame supporting at least one service
unit selected from the group comprising bathroom units, kitchen
units, laundry units, and closet units, and a displacement
mechanism operatively connected to the base frame for displacement
of the base frame and of the mobile service block system from one
location to another. A method of installing the mobile service
block system in a building and a room unit including the mobile
service block system are also disclosed.
Inventors: |
LECLERC; Pierre; (Carignan,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
LES MODULES ECOLOGIQUES MOVE HOME INC. |
Longueuil |
|
CA |
|
|
Family ID: |
54769132 |
Appl. No.: |
15/651012 |
Filed: |
July 17, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14295777 |
Jun 4, 2014 |
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15651012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 77/08 20130101;
E04B 1/34869 20130101; E04B 2/827 20130101; A47B 77/02
20130101 |
International
Class: |
E04B 1/348 20060101
E04B001/348 |
Claims
1. A mobile service block system comprising: a base frame
supporting at least one service unit selected from the group
comprising bathroom units, kitchen units, laundry units, and closet
units; and a displacement mechanism operatively connected to the
base frame for displacement of the base frame and of the mobile
service block system from one location to another.
2. The mobile service block system according to claim 1, wherein
the base frame supports an integrated bathroom unit, kitchen unit,
laundry unit and closet unit.
3. The mobile service block system according to claim 2, wherein
the base frame occupies a substantially rectangular footprint, the
bathroom unit occupies a first side portion of the rectangular
footprint, the laundry unit and the closet unit are in a
side-by-side configuration and the kitchen unit is in a
back-to-back configuration with respect to the side-by-side
configuration of the laundry and closet units, and wherein the
kitchen, laundry and closet units occupy a second side portion of
the rectangular footprint.
4. The mobile service block system according to claim 3, wherein
the substantially rectangular footprint occupies a surface of about
55 ft.sup.2.
5. The mobile service block system according to claim 1, wherein
the base frame comprises FSC-certified wood components.
6. The mobile service block system according to claim 1, further
comprising plumbing and electrical connections for connecting the
mobile service block system to a plumbing and electrical
infrastructure of a building.
7. The mobile service block system according to claim 1, the block
system comprising a bathroom unit, the bathroom unit comprising a
bathroom sink and a toilet, the toilet being configured to recycle
water from the bathroom sink.
8. The mobile service block system according to claim 7, wherein
the bathroom unit further comprises an openable glass window for
controlling humidity within the bathroom unit.
9. The mobile service block system according to claim 1, wherein
the displacement mechanism comprises a plurality of 360.degree.
pivotable wheel elements distributed about the base frame, the
wheel elements being selectively lockable during operational use of
the at least one service unit and unlocked during displacement of
the mobile service block system.
10. The mobile service block system according to claim 1, wherein
at least one service unit comprises a wall element configured to
support an electronic display system mounted on a pivotable and
adjustable base on an external face of the mobile service block
system.
11. The mobile service block system according to claim 1, the block
system comprising a kitchen unit, the kitchen unit comprising a
stainless steel counter top with an integrated kitchen sink.
12. The mobile service block system according to claim 1, wherein
the mobile service block system is configured to receive energy and
water efficient appliances for use within the mobile service block
system.
13. A method of installing a mobile service block system in a
building comprising: a) prefabricating a mobile service block
system as defined in claim 1 at a manufacturing location; b)
transporting the prefabricated mobile service block system from the
manufacturing location to a building location; and c) connecting
the prefabricated mobile service block system to a plumbing and
electrical infrastructure of the building.
14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the prefabricated
mobile service block system is wrapped in recycled cardboard during
the transporting step.
15. The method according to claim 13, wherein the prefabricating
step further comprises a step of storing a plurality of mobile
service block systems at the manufacturing location.
16. The method according to claim 13, further comprising a step of
disassembling and recycling the mobile service block system at an
end of an operational life of the mobile service block system.
17. A room unit comprising a mobile service block system as defined
in claim 1.
18. The room unit according to claim 17, wherein the mobile service
block system is displaceable between a daytime location for
operational use during a daytime period and a nighttime location
for operational use during a nighttime period.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention generally relates to building systems,
and is more particularly directed to a mobile service block system
including prefabricated bathroom, kitchen and other service room
units in a single compact and mobile form for installation and use
in buildings.
BACKGROUND
[0002] In certain countries like Canada, each person consumes an
average of nearly 329 liters of water per day. Energy and water
conservation and management are becoming important concerns in
building constructions. Also, saving space and minimizing the use
of premium materials are also becoming important considerations
when designing buildings.
[0003] Accordingly, there is a need for a building system and
method that addresses at least one of the above-mentioned
concerns.
[0004] Know to the Applicant is US patent application No.
2011/0209735 A1 made public on Sep. 1, 2011, in the name of ROWAN,
and relating to a "shelter building". This document describes a
housing for emergencies or for those in need could be a short-term
solution or may be set up as a longer-term shelter. The shelter may
be flexible to grow and change enough to accommodate the
individual, the family and the community. The shelter is more
substantial than a tent and easier to assemble and transport as
compared to conventional shelters. The shelter can be transported
in a standard size truck bed (for example, 4 feet by 8 feet) and
erected by two individuals in a minimal amount of time, typically
less than an hour. The walls of the shelter may include various
features, including shelving, bathing facilities, sinks, beds,
lighting, and the like. The shelters may be designed to be
connected to external electric and water supplies. Optionally, the
shelters may be designed as stand-alone, "off-the-grid" units. The
ceiling of the shelter may include one or more solar panels to
provide power for the shelter. The shelter's container provides the
essentials needed to sustain life. This takes away the need for
standing in multiple lines and gives the much needed immediate
help.
[0005] Despite this known technology, there is always a need to
continue innovating and finding better and/or different ways of
providing dwellings for people, in a quicker, easier, simpler,
faster, more efficient, more economical, more reliable, more
adjustable, more versatile, more adaptable, more
environmentally-friendly, more sustainable and/or more desirable
manner.
SUMMARY
[0006] An object of the invention is to provide a mobile service
block system and method that addresses at least one of the
above-mentioned needs.
[0007] According to the present invention, there is provided a
mobile service block system comprising: [0008] a base frame
supporting at least one service unit selected from the group
comprising bathroom units, kitchen units, laundry units, and closet
units; and [0009] a displacement mechanism operatively connected to
the base frame for displacement of the base frame and of the mobile
service block system from one location to another.
[0010] According to the present invention, there is also provided a
method of installing a mobile service block system in a building
comprising: [0011] a) prefabricating a mobile service block system
as defined above at a manufacturing location; [0012] b)
transporting the prefabricated mobile service block system from the
manufacturing location to a building location; and [0013] c)
connecting the prefabricated mobile service block system to a
plumbing and electrical infrastructure of the building.
[0014] According to the present invention, there is also provided a
room unit comprising a mobile service block system as defined
above.
[0015] Some objects, advantages and other features will become more
apparent upon reading the following non-restrictive description of
certain optional configurations, given for the purpose of
exemplification only, with reference to the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will
become better understood with reference to the description in
association with the following Figures, in which similar references
used in different Figures denote similar components, wherein:
[0017] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a mobile service block
system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 2 is a front view of the mobile service block system
shown in FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 3 is a rear view of the mobile service block system
shown in FIG. 1.
[0020] FIGS. 4A and 4B are top views of a room unit including the
mobile service block system shown in FIG. 1 in a daytime
configuration and a nighttime configuration respectively.
[0021] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of manufacturing and installation
of a mobile service block system.
[0022] FIGS. 6A to 6E are rear, front, top and side views
respectively of the mobile service block system shown in FIG.
1.
[0023] FIG. 7A is a side cross-sectional view of the kitchen and
laundry unit of the mobile service block system shown in FIG.
1.
[0024] FIGS. 7B and 7C are front and side cross-sectional views
respectively of a bathroom unit of the mobile service block system
shown in FIG. 1.
[0025] FIGS. 8A to 8C are top, front and side cross-sectional views
respectively of a kitchen unit of the mobile service block system
shown in FIG. 1.
[0026] FIGS. 9A to 9C are top, front and side views respectively of
a bathroom unit of the mobile service block system shown in FIG.
1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] In the following description, the same numerical references
refer to similar elements. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity
and clarity, namely so as to not unduly burden the figures with
several references numbers, not all figures contain references to
all the components and features, and references to some components
and features may be found in only one figure, and components and
features of the present disclosure which are illustrated in other
figures can be easily inferred therefrom. The embodiments,
geometrical configurations, materials mentioned and/or dimensions
shown in the figures are optional, and are given for
exemplification purposes only.
[0028] Furthermore, although the present invention may be used as a
mobile service block system in a residential building, for example,
it is understood that it may be used with other types of buildings,
for other purposes. For this reason, expressions such as
"bathroom", "laundry", etc. as used herein should not be taken as
to limit the scope of the present invention to being used with
these residential buildings in particular. These expressions
encompass all other kinds of materials, objects and/or purposes
with other types of buildings with which the present invention
could be used and may be useful.
[0029] In addition, although the optional configurations as
illustrated in the accompanying drawings comprises various
components and although the optional configurations of the mobile
service block system as shown may consist of certain geometrical
configurations as explained and illustrated herein, not all of
these components and geometries are essential and thus should not
be taken in their restrictive sense, i.e.
[0030] should not be taken as to limit the scope of the present
disclosure. It is to be understood that other suitable components
and cooperations thereinbetween, as well as other suitable
geometrical configurations may be used for the mobile service block
system, and corresponding parts, as briefly explained and as can be
easily inferred herefrom, without departing from the scope of the
disclosure.
[0031] Referring to FIG. 1, a mobile service block system 10 is
shown. The mobile service block system 10 includes a base frame 12
supporting at least one service unit 14 selected from the group
comprising bathroom units 16, kitchen units 18, laundry units 20,
and closet units 22. The mobile service block system 10 also
includes a displacement mechanism 24 operatively connected to the
base frame 12 for displacement of the base frame 12 and of the
mobile service block system 10 from one location to another.
[0032] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4B, the base
frame 12 supports an integrated bathroom unit 16, kitchen unit 18,
laundry unit 20 and closet unit 22.
[0033] In some implementations, the base frame 12 occupies a
substantially rectangular footprint, the bathroom unit 16 occupies
a first side portion of the rectangular footprint, the laundry unit
20 and the closet 22 unit are in a side-by-side configuration and
the kitchen unit 18 is in a back-to-back configuration with respect
to the side-by-side configuration of the laundry and closet units,
20, 22, and wherein the kitchen, laundry and closet units occupy a
second side portion of the rectangular footprint.
[0034] In preferred embodiments, the substantially rectangular
footprint occupies a surface of about 55 ft.sup.2. However, the
overall surface and shape of the footprint can vary according to
the number of units located on the base frame 12. More units will
result in a larger footprint, and less units will result in a
smaller footprint.
[0035] In some implementations, the base frame 12 comprises
FSC-certified wood components.
[0036] In some implementations, the mobile service block system 10
further includes plumping and electrical connections for connecting
the mobile service block system to a plumbing and electrical
infrastructure of a building.
[0037] In some implementations, as shown in FIG. 2, the bathroom
unit 16 includes a bathroom sink 30 and a toilet 32, the toilet 32
being configured to recycle water from the bathroom sink 30. The
bathroom unit 16 can also include a shower 120 with a controller
limiting shower time to 7 minutes, for example. Structural walls or
doors 122 of the bathroom unit can be made with flexible, durable
materials that perform well under the repetitive displacements of
the mobile service block system
[0038] In some implementations, the bathroom unit 16 further
includes an openable glass window 34 for controlling humidity
within the bathroom unit 16.
[0039] In some implementations, the displacement mechanism 24
comprises a plurality of 360.degree. pivotable wheel elements 36
distributed about the base frame 12, the wheel elements 36 being
selectively lockable during operational use of the at least one
service unit 14 and unlocked during displacement of the mobile
service block system 10.
[0040] In some implementations, as shown in FIG. 3, at least one
service unit 14 comprises a wall element 38 configured to support
an electronic display system 40 mounted on a pivotable and
adjustable base on an external face of the mobile service block
system 10. The closet unit 22 can include a deep closet space 124
that can accommodate full length clothing. The laundry unit 20 can
also include optimized storage space 114, as well as a combined
washer-condensation dryer 126, which reduces water and energy
consumption.
[0041] In some implementations, as shown in FIG. 2, the kitchen
unit 18 includes a stainless steel counter top 42 with an
integrated kitchen sink 44. As better shown in FIGS. 8A to 8C, the
kitchen units can have wood cupboards 102 with for example a clear
varnish. Stainless steel plates 104 can be used to cover lateral
walls. A wooden headboard 106 can be provided above the counter top
42, and can provide an aperture to receive an electrical outlet. In
some embodiments, the stainless steel counter top 42 can be a 304
stainless steel caliber 16 counter top 108 configured to receive a
cooking surface 110. The kitchen unit 18 can also include a DEL
lighting system 112. In the kitchen unit, storage areas 114 can be
optimized for space usage.
[0042] In some implementations, the mobile service block system 10
is configured to receive energy and water efficient appliances 46
for use within the mobile service block system 10.
[0043] According to the present invention, as better shown in FIG.
5, there is also provided a method of installing a mobile service
block system in a building comprising: [0044] a) prefabricating a
mobile service block system as defined in any one of claims 1 to 5
and 7 to 12 at a manufacturing location (step 200); [0045] b)
transporting the prefabricated mobile service block system from the
manufacturing location to a building location (step 300); and
[0046] c) connecting the prefabricated mobile service block system
to a plumbing and electrical infrastructure of the building (step
400).
[0047] Prefabrication Step
[0048] In all respects, prefabrication assists in installation at
the worksite. First, this type of prefabrication construction
encourages a better use of materials and generating much less
losses. Skilled workers perform repetitive tasks and ensure a
greater quality of assembly and in less time, thus resulting in
cost savings. In the end, prefabrication offers better working
conditions for workers and generates a minimal environmental
impact.
[0049] In some implementations, the prefabricating step further
comprises a step of storing a plurality of mobile service block
systems at the manufacturing location, thus avoiding further
transport.
[0050] Transporting Step
[0051] In some implementations, the prefabricated mobile service
block system is wrapped in recycled cardboard during the
transporting step. Such packaging minimally protects the contents
until delivery. The distribution is done by truck, where the
modules are stored and protected by reusable blankets in the
semi-trailer box, until delivery at the building directly to the
accommodation of the user. As shown in step 400 of FIG. 5, a
"forklift" can be used to introduce the system on different floors
and where the system is readily connectable for use.
[0052] In some implementations, the system consumes about 35% less
water and 45% less energy than a similar standard residential
development. Its durable design allows it to be moved from one
dwelling to another and offers a long term solution. Obsolete
components can be easily replaced, thus ensuring an extended life
time.
[0053] Recycling Step
[0054] In some implementations, the method further includes a step
of disassembling and recycling (step 500) the mobile service block
system at an end of an operational life of the mobile service block
system. Having reached the end of its useful life, the system can
be largely disassembled and more than 90% recycled. After-sales
service available on site can encourage users to send obsolete
parts or the entire system to the appropriate recycling center.
[0055] According to the present invention, as better shown in FIGS.
4A and 4B, there is also provided a room unit 50 including a mobile
service block system as defined above.
[0056] In some implementations, the mobile service block system 10
is displaceable between a daytime location for operational use
during a daytime period (shown in FIG. 4A) and a nighttime location
for operational use during a nighttime period (shown in FIG.
4B).
[0057] In some implementations, this prefabricated system can be
pre-fitted with energy and water efficient appliances and can be
characterized by various environmental aspects, including its
FSC-certified wood structure (see step 100 in FIG. 5), low
consumption of water and energy, durability, etc. Operation of the
system is simple, flexible and easily adaptable to various
buildings, as small as it is, provided that access to water and
electricity connections is possible in the building.
[0058] Unlike prefabricated bathrooms and kitchens already
available on the market, the system is distinguished by its
mobility and overall ecodesign. Its size, its weight, small
footprint, is easy to integrate a multitude of areas, as its low
energy and water consumption and sleek design make it a great
alternative.
[0059] By its small size, the system requires approximately 47%
less raw materials when compared to several traditional kitchens,
laundry room and bath designs. The construction of a frame and a
trim structure of FSC-certified wood from a regional supply
provides a guarantee of concern for resource management. The FSC
label thus provides added value to the project. The choice of
stainless steel also proves interesting because a large portion of
the system comes from recycling local waste.
[0060] In some implementations, the system 10 is a 55 ft.sup.2
mobile service block together with pre-fitted energy and water
efficient kitchen, laundry and bathroom amenities. This
prefabricated module and equipped with approved appliances is
characterized by various environmental aspects, including its
FSC-certified wood structure (see step 100 in FIG. 5), low
consumption of water and energy, durability, etc. The operation is
simple, flexible and easily adaptable to various facilities, as
small as it is, if access to water and electricity connections are
possible.
[0061] In some implementations, the design of the system is
characterized by a comprehensive approach to product life cycle,
from raw material extraction to disposal at end of life. Different
economic, social and environmental issues were identified
considering the stages of life cycle analysis and were addressed to
propose a solution to the various problems of production and
consumption that were observed. Various strategies were used to
minimize adverse environmental and social impacts, including a
selection of local materials that are durable and resistant over
time. In addition, the small design of the module and its
prefabrication ensures optimized production and improved resource
management. The selected components of the module are there to
reduce the consumption of water and energy.
[0062] In some implementations, the system on wheels fits various
floor plans. Through its simple architecture, it gives way to an
airy, free expression that everyone can customize. The system is
ecologically designed and consumes resources responsibly. The
durability of the module allows it to be moved. Thus, in the long
term, it can easily be transported by truck, connected and reused
in a new space, as if the system was an average piece of furniture,
all with maximum comfort in a minimum of space.
[0063] The realization of this type of construction can encourage
other companies to create eco minimalist architectural design,
thereby seeking to reduce their environmental footprint and lead to
rethinking mass residential building. The Applicant encourages
other architects, designers, developers and contractors to develop
and promote solutions to overconsumption. Oversized houses are
outdated. By offering a unique usage scenario based on the
sustainability objectives of eco-design, the system provides a
long-term solution that follows us over time. Its raw materials and
simple designs are timeless. The goal is to educate and inspire
corporate actors to undertake such an approach in the context of a
more conscious development of the environment for this growing
sector of construction projects. Overall, the Applicant seeks to
inspire a better management of resources among the population in
the hope a healthier planet.
[0064] The following table shows examples of water and energy
consumption of components used in the mobile service block system
in contrast with traditional components:
TABLE-US-00001 WATER ENERGY Components CONSUMPTION CONSUMPTION
Toilet macerator system according to invention -- 8 kWh/year
Traditional toilet 13 L/flush -- Toilet according to invention less
than 6 L/flush* -- Traditional bathroom faucet 13.5 L/min --
Bathroom faucet according to invention 9 L/min -- Traditional
shower 9.5 L/min -- Shower according to invention 6.65 L/min --
Traditional washer-dryer 90 L/wash 500 kWh/year Washer-dryer
according to invention 40 L/wash 216 kWh/year Traditional fridge --
550 kWh/year Fridge according to invention -- 330 kWh/year
Traditional kitchen faucet 13.5 L/min -- Kitchen faucet according
to invention 5.7 L/min -- Traditional 4-piece cooking surface --
400 kWh/year 2-piece cooking surface according to invention -- 365
kWh/year Traditional dish-washer 45 L/wash 310 kWh/year Hand
washing of dishes according to invention 15 L/wash -- Traditional
microwave -- 30 kWh/year Microwave according to invention -- 25
kWh/year Traditional water heater -- 5 000 kWh/year Instant water
heater according to invention -- 2 000 kWh/year Traditional
television -- 100 kWh/year Television according to invention -- 53
kWh/year *unused faucet water sent to the toilet
[0065] Of course, numerous modifications could be made to the
above-described configurations and implementations, without
departing from the scope of the disclosure.
* * * * *