WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE HOME ADDITION SYSTEM

Abstract

A wheelchair accessible home addition system is provided that includes a trailer, a prefabricated dwelling unit, and a connector, which together allow for the rapid installation of a wheelchair accessible bedroom and bathroom with an optional kitchenette that can be temporarily or permanently attached to an existing home. A more temporary installation may be accomplished using the trailer assembly, which includes four integral crank-down support jacks that can be engaged and secured for hurricane winds with cable tie downs. In this way, the dwelling remains on the trailer during use. A more permanent installation may be accomplished by using a metal support frame under the dwelling that allows the dwelling to be placed on a site built pile foundation.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to the field of portable healthcare buildings. In particular, the present invention is directed to a wheelchair accessible home addition system.

BACKGROUND

Individuals affected by debilitating injury or illness often require extra care and/or modified living accommodations. Staying in hospitals or other health care facilities long term may be undesirable, inconvenient, expensive, can extend convalescence, and separate families. Additionally, remodeling a patient's home or the home of a relative/caregiver may be too expensive, take too long, or otherwise be an undesirable option. Therefore, there is a need for a portable living facility that can be easily and efficiently installed in a temporary or permanent location and that can accommodate individuals requiring modified living accommodations.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

It is an object of the present invention to provide a portable, accessible living facility that includes a trailer having a chassis, a housing compartment attached to the chassis and including a door, a bedroom area, a bathroom area, a hoist track running between the bathroom area and the bedroom area, and a connector having a first end and a second end, the connector configured to be removably attached to the housing compartment on the first end and to an existing building on the second end. The connector includes a coil assembly including single ply membrane roofing material over an adjustable coil, a first door panel on the first end configured to be secured over the door, a second door panel on the second end configured to be secured over an opening in an existing building, a floor, a roof frame, and welded wire fabric configured to be wrapped around the coil to hold the coil in a position.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a portable living facility having a trailer with a chassis, a housing compartment with a front side and a rear side, the housing compartment including wall plates bolted directly to the chassis, a plurality of structurally insulated wall panels, and a single continuous roof panel, wherein the structurally insulated wall panels have an inside side and an outside side and the structurally insulated wall panels overlap the wall plates on both the inside side and the outside side where the structurally insulated panels are attached to the wall plates wherein the roof panel is attached to the structurally insulated wall panels, and wherein the housing compartment includes a plurality of windows. In addition, the living facility includes a bedroom area in the housing compartment, a bathroom area in the housing compartment, a hoist track attached to the roof panel without additional structural bracing, the hoist track extending from the bedroom area to the bathroom area, a first door on the front side leading to an accessible ramp outside the housing compartment, and a second door on the rear side leading into a connector that is designed and configured to be removably attached on a first end to an outside of the rear side of the housing compartment and designed and configured to be removably attached on a second end to an opening of an existing building, wherein the connector is designed and configured to form a weather-tight connection between the housing compartment and an existing structure and wherein the connector is designed and configured to contain equipment for conveying electrical and plumbing services from an existing structure to the housing compartment.

It is another object of the invention to provide a living facility that has a trailer having a chassis that includes a steel perimeter frame with a monolithic structural insulated panel attached, a housing compartment attached to the trailer, the housing compartment including wall plates bolted directly to the chassis, a plurality of structurally insulated wall panels, and a single continuous roof panel, wherein the structurally insulated wall panels have an inside side and an outside side and the structurally insulated wall panels overlap the wall plates on both the inside side and the outside side where the structurally insulated panels are attached to the wall plates and wherein the roof panel is attached to the structurally insulated wall panels, a bedroom area and a bathroom area. The housing compartment also includes a hoist track supported by the roof panel, the hoist track extending from the bedroom area to the bathroom area, a door leading from inside the housing compartment to outside the housing compartment, and a connector designed and configured to be removably attached on a first end to an outside of the housing compartment and to surround the door and designed and configured to be removably attached on a second end to an existing building such that direct access between the existing building and the housing compartment is allowed, wherein the connector is designed and configured to form a weather-tight connection between the housing compartment and an existing structure and wherein the connector is designed and configured to contain equipment for conveying electrical and plumbing services from an existing structure to the housing compartment.

In another exemplary embodiment, a wheelchair accessible home addition system is provided that includes a bottom support, the bottom support being attached to a chassis of a trailer during a temporary installation and being attached to a foundation during a permanent installation, wherein the bottom support overhangs the chassis in a direction along a wheel axle of the trailer. The system also includes a dwelling unit attached to the bottom support, the dwelling unit including a roof, a front wall, a back wall, a first side wall, and a second side wall opposite the first side wall, wherein the roof includes a roof membrane, a vent space beneath the roof membrane, and a roof structural insulated panel, wherein the roof panel includes a first support layer, a second support layer, and an insulation layer between the first support layer and the second support layer. A ceiling may be included beneath the second support layer, the ceiling including framing attached to the second support layer and ceiling boards attached to the framing, wherein the ceiling includes a first section and a second section, wherein the first section extends from the back wall to a first section edge, and wherein the second section extends at an upward angle from the first section edge to the front wall. There is a bedroom area in the dwelling unit, the bedroom area formed by the first side wall and portions of the front wall and the back wall, and a bathroom area in the dwelling unit, the bathroom area being adjacent to the bedroom area and formed by the second side wall and portions of the front wall and the back wall. A hoist track system includes a trolley system and a support system, wherein the trolley system includes a rail track extending directly and only from the bedroom area into the bathroom area, the rail track conveying a wheel truck assembly that supports and conveys a coupler for a lift, wherein the support system includes a first member attached to the roof panel via a plurality of bolts passing through the first support layer, the second support layer, and at least a portion of the first member, and a second member attached to the roof panel via a second plurality of bolts passing through the first support layer, the second support layer, and at least a portion of the second member, wherein the rail track is supported between the first member and the second member, wherein the hoist track system runs between the first ceiling section and the second ceiling section, and wherein the rail track, the first member, and the second member are located above the ceiling boards. A first exterior door in the front wall is located along the front wall between the bedroom area and the bathroom area, and a second exterior door in the back wall is located along the back wall between the bedroom area and the bathroom area.

In another exemplary embodiment, a wheelchair accessible home addition system includes a bottom support, the bottom support being a metal frame, and a dwelling unit on the bottom support, the dwelling unit including a roof panel, a front wall, a back wall, a first side wall, and a second side wall opposite the first side wall. The dwelling unit includes a bedroom area formed by the first side wall and portions of the front wall and the back wall, a bathroom area adjacent to the bedroom area and formed by the second side wall and portions of the front wall and the back wall, a hoist track system attached only to the roof panel, the hoist track system including a track extending directly and only between the bedroom area and the bathroom area, a first exterior door in the front wall between the bedroom area and the bathroom area, and a second exterior door in the back wall between the bedroom area and the bathroom area. A connector is attached on a first end to an outside of the rear of the dwelling unit, the first end surrounding the second door, and on a second end to an existing building, wherein the connector includes a plurality of telescoping metal scaffolding support members, each of the plurality of telescoping support members secured on one end to the rear of the dwelling unit and on an opposite end to the existing building.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For the purpose of illustrating the invention, the drawings show aspects of one or more embodiments of the invention. However, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown in the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an exemplary perspective, partially exploded view of an aspect of an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2A depicts an alternative trailer in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention:

FIG. 2B is a partial view of the trailer of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of an exemplary home addition system in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of vented siding in accordance with aspects of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a plan view of an exemplary home addition in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is an exemplary perspective view of a cavity chase wall with cantilevered sink in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a wheelchair accessible home addition including a dwelling unit, metal support frame, trailer, and connector in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8A is a perspective view of the home addition of FIG. 7 and a home addition foundation next to an existing building;

FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the home addition of FIG. 7 being placed onto the dwel ling unit foundation;

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of the home addition of FIG. 7 installed on the foundation with a plurality of telescoping support members of a connector secured between the dwelling unit and the building;

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the home addition of FIG. 7 installed on the foundation with a the connector secured between the dwelling unit and the building;

FIG. 10A shows a rear of the home addition of FIG. 7 with the telescoping support members for the connector being installed;

FIG. 10B is a detail view of fasteners for the telescoping support members;

FIG. 10C shows a rear of the home addition of FIG. 7 with the connector being installed in which the existing building is not shown for clarity;

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a connector in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 11B is an exploded view of the connector shown in FIG. 11A;

FIG. 12A is a cut-away view of a home addition and attached connector in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 12B is a cut-away view of the home addition and attached connector of FIG. 11A through the bathroom area;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a roof panel and ceiling showing components of a hoist system in accordance with another aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 14A is a side view of a trailer in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 14B is a rear view of the trailer shown in FIG. 14A;

FIG. 15A is a perspective view of the trailer shown in FIG. 14A without an attached dwelling unit;

FIG. 15B is a detail view of a portion of the trailer of FIG. 15A;

FIG. 15C is a top view of the trailer of FIG. 15A;

FIG. 15D is a side view of the trailer of FIG. 15A;

FIG. 15E is a rear view of the trailer of FIG. 15A;

FIG. 15F is a front view of the trailer of FIG. 15A;

FIG. 16 is a plan view showing a continuously insulated corner of the dwelling unit in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 depicts how the bottom of the dwelling unit, the bottom support, and the trailer chassis are connected; and

FIG. 18 depicts the unibody construction to retain structural integrity.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

A wheelchair accessible home addition system is provided that includes a trailer, a prefabricated dwelling unit, and a connector, which together allow for the rapid installation of a wheelchair accessible bedroom and bathroom with an optional kitchenette that can be temporarily or permanently attached to an existing home. A more temporary installation may be accomplished using the trailer assembly, which includes four integral crank-down support jacks that can be engaged and secured for hurricane winds with cable tie downs. In this way, the dwelling remains on the trailer during use. A more permanent installation may be accomplished by using a metal support frame under the dwelling that allows the dwelling to be placed on a site built pile foundation, in which case the trailer can be towed away for reuse.

The dwelling unit, is suitable for individuals requiring care and/or having mobility issues, is portable and can be removably connected to an existing structure, such as a residence, to allow direct access to the existing structure while remaining on the trailer or on the pile foundation. In this way, the home addition may serve as an alternative to making construction modifications to a residence to accommodate another individual, especially one requiring care and/or having mobility issues, since many existing residences are not designed to accommodate those requiring care and/or having mobility issues.

The dwelling unit can be made directly accessible through a connection to the existing structure thereby allowing occupants of the existing structure, or host house, to easily and conveniently get to the dwelling unit while affording the patient a sense of privacy and independence. The home addition also allows the occupants of the host house to minimize any disruption and inconvenience associated with adapting the existing house to meet the needs of the patient and having a patient in the home while maintaining the peace of mind that having the patient on premises provides.

The home addition may include electrical connections to the existing structure as well as a plumbing system. Additional features may include an integral hoist system, unibody construction, portable ramp and decking, and a weather-tight, adjustable connector between the living facility and the host house.

FIG. 1 depicts a portable home addition 100 of the present invention, which includes a dwelling unit 102 that is supported on and can be transported when necessary on a trailer 104. Home addition 100 is sized and configured to be transported on roadways. Trailer 104 may have a steel chassis 112.

Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, another trailer, trailer 204, may have a steel perimeter frame 203 (e.g., 203a, 203b) with a monolithic structural insulated panel 205 (structural insulated panels are discussed further below) attached to form a unique hybrid trailer chassis 212 to which a living unit, unit 202 (same as unit 102), is secured. The design of trailer 204 is lighter while also greatly increasing insulating value and strength.

The wheel assembly as well as stabilization jacks of trailer 104 are continuously welded to the chassis. Optionally, trailer 104 may include a removable trailer hitch tongue that can be secured to either side of trailer 104 to facilitate easier installation near the host house.

Unit 102 may be constructed to be practically squeak free by using a unibody construction that allows the chassis, floor, walls, and roof to effectively act as one piece. The integral bond between these elements is achieved with a redundant application of mechanical fasteners and a continuous application of structural adhesives. In particular, with reference now to FIGS. 1-3, the floor is a one piece floor panel 108 that is continuously secured to welded chassis 112 of trailer 104 with heavy duty steel bolts and wooden plates that are bonded to the steel with a structural adhesive. Wall plates 116 (e.g., 116a, 116b) are secured directly to chassis 112 with a continuous application of structural adhesive along with integrally welded bolts that fasten wall plates 116 directly to chassis 112. These integrally welded bolts thus function to secure unit 102 to trailer 104 in manner similar to how a stationary house is typically secured to its concrete foundation.

Wall plates 116 are secured to wall panels 120 (e.g., 120a-120d), which may preferably be structurally insulated panels, with structural adhesive and continuous panel overlap on both the interior and exterior faces of the wall, which is twice the overlap found in typical construction of manufactured housing where panel overlap only occurs on the outside of the plate. This Structural Insulated Panel construction is also known as a “SIP” construction and structurally insulated panels in accordance with such construction may be manufactured as an engineered assembly of insulating foam with two panels of Oriented Strand Board (OSB), structurally laminated to both broad surfaces. SIP panels can be obtained from a number of vendors such as, Foard Panel, Inc. of Chesterfield, N.H. The continuous panel overlap on both the interior and exterior allows wall panels 120 to be secured continuously to wall plates 116 on both sides of wall panels 120. Wall panels 120 are also mechanically fastened one to the other and adhered with joint cavities that are foamed in place with a high strength insulating adhesive foam.

The unitized wall panel 120 and one piece floor panel 108 assembly is further solidified by attaching a single continuous roof panel 124 to the tops of wall panels 120. This provides a rigid structural diaphragm at both the top and bottom of unit 102. This utilization of a continuous structural skin on the interior and exterior strengthens the unibody construction. All construction corners and seams are secured with separate interior and exterior mending plates that eliminate thermal bridging.

A back vented siding may be applied to continuous wood members that surround all sides of unit 102. As shown in FIG. 4, unit 102 may be covered with a vented siding, which may also be referred to as a “Rain Screen.” Vent strapping 128 is attached to wall panels 120 over any sheathing 122 and may be typically 1×3 boards. Siding 126 is attached to vent strapping 128. Each strapping 128 is secured from top to bottom and thus serves as a continuous structural strap similar to continuous earthquake ties that may be used in frame construction. These many integral straps of solid wood offer another level of redundancy in tying the entire structure of home addition 100 together and air vent space formed has the further advantage of adding to the insulation value of the wall assembly.

Turning to FIG. 5, the floor plan of unit 102 is designed to comfortably accommodate a patient and be functionally wheelchair accessible. The floor plan of unit 102 includes a first exterior door 132 that leads to optional deck 130 and/or ramp 134 (not shown in FIG. 5). A second door 136 leads to a second exit or to the interior of a host house through a connector 140 (discussed in more detail below). Various windows 144 (e.g., 144a, 144b) provide ample natural light. A first area 148 serves as a bedroom and may include a foldable shelf 152 that can be reached by a patient from a bed and can be folded out of the way to facilitate egress on and off of a bed.

A second area 156 serves as a bath area and may include privacy glass panels 158 to separate the bath area from the bedroom, although it will be understood that other materials may be used to provide this separation. Glass panels 158 may be frosted from the floor up to the top of an interior door 160, which may preferably be a standard height of eighty inches or run from floor to ceiling to accommodate a hoist track (discussed below). Above standard, door height, the glass may be transparent to visually extend the ceiling lines from both areas and maximize the apparent size of each area.

The bath area includes a roll in shower area 164 that uses an integral floor drain 168. The drainage area may be created with a shower drain pan that tapers on four sides. A continuous non-slip floor finish covers the entire shower area 164 and slopes down seamlessly to drain 168. The same flooring flashes up the walls surrounding shower area 164 with a gentle 1.5″ radius curve known as a “cove stick” for hygienic purposes The bath area may also include amenities such as a glass grab rail 172 to enhance the interior environment to provide a welcome distinction to the institutional look and feel of hospitals and rehabilitation centers. It will be understood that any suitable grab rail may used, including clear acrylic, for example. Glass grab rail 172 may use laboratory glass billet rods held in place with finished metal hardware and can be finished with custom polished ends and miters where they meet at the corners. In addition, a glass and zinc basin 176 may enhance the interior environment to provide a welcome distinction to the institutional look and feel of hospitals and rehabilitation centers. It will be understood that other materials may be used for basin 176, such as porcelain.

A sink 180 is designed and attached to the plumbing wall such that sink 180 cantilevers over the floor and thus provides wheelchair access from the two open sides, as can be seen in FIG. 6.

Sink 180 drains into a stainless steel drain trap that may be concealed under a grate 184, which may be made of teak wood or other suitable material. A chase wall 188 to which sink 180 is attached conceals the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing lines while at the same time facilitating via removable panels easy access to the plumbing, as well as a bath fan.

An integral hoist track system may be included within unit 102 to assist with the mobility of the patient. With the above described unibody construction of unit 102, supplemental bracing may not be necessary to support the hoist track system. This allows for an economical alternative to costly track systems that require special structural bracing before they are installed. The purpose of the hoist track system is to assist in the conveyance of an occupant from the bed to the shower, for example. It is noted that the hoist system may be used by a patient to transport them to any area of a wheelchair accessible home addition. The hoist track system, an exemplary path 192 for which is outlined in FIG. 5, includes a hoist plate, such as a wooden structural plate, that is secured to roof panel 124 and insulated ceiling using repetitive fasteners similar to a piano hinge along with a structural adhesive. In this way, the hoist track plate can be concealed flush with the ceiling finish. The continuous ceiling visually extends the size of the room over lower door height partition walls between the bath and the bedroom. An optional rope and pulley system enables self-powered transit along the hoist track. A full height shower type door would permit the hoist track to move continuously from the sleeping area to the bathroom. A noise dampening wheel assembly helps minimize the sound made when the hoist track is used.

When portable dwelling unit 102 can be placed near a host house, connector 140 may allow direct access between dwelling unit 102 and the host house. Connector 140 is weather-tight and insulated and, in additional to allowing people to go directly between the host house and dwelling unit 102, can carry the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing services to/from the host house to/from the home addition.

When home addition 100 is connected to a host house, connector 140 may include an exterior door 132 (shown in FIG. 5) to facilitate direct access to the host house from the exterior to alleviate the need to use another egress to enter the host house or to have to go through home addition 100 to enter the host house.

When a door of the host house is not available or practical, a window opening may be modified such that a portion of the wall below the window sill is removed temporarily to create direct access through connector 140 while home addition 100 is in place.

Unit 102 is energy efficient due to the continuous insulation available through the use of Structural Insulated Panel construction, as well as preferably in some embodiments through the use of insulation in the floor and ceiling.

Other features of home addition 100 may include the use of corrugated metal as a special lightweight finish in the bathroom and to hide the hot water heater. Fasteners securing these finishes are easily released to provide easy access to the plumbing walls. Latex reinforced tile adhesive may be used as a lightweight wall finish applied as a finish stucco directly over the wall sheathing. Fire treated wood finish thin veneer plywood may be used as a wainscoting. In addition, fire treated rough sawn wood ceiling panels may be used to conceal wiring and provide a unique natural material finish.

In another exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, a wheelchair accessible home addition system 300 includes a house connector 302, a dwelling unit 304, a trailer 308 with a chassis 312 that supports a metal support frame 316 on which dwelling unit 304 is supported. Metal support frame 316 may include D-rings 317 (e.g., 317a) to facilitate maneuvering and placement of frame 316 with dwelling unit 304 attached. Dwelling unit 304 includes a rear 320, a front 324, a first side 328, and a second side 332, with a door 336 on rear 320 and a second door 340 on front 324.

At a location where dwelling unit 304 is to be installed, which is typically near an existing building or residence 342 as shown in FIG. 8A, a foundational support system 344 is prepared that may include a plurality of posts 346 (e.g., 346a) secured in the ground and a plurality of joists 348 (e.g., 348a) supported atop a subset of the plurality of posts 346. Foundational support system 344 is installed proximate existing building 342 to facilitate access between building 342 and dwelling unit 304. Preferably, dwelling unit 304 is installed such that door 336 (shown in FIG. 10A) on rear 320 of dwelling unit 304 is across from an opening (e.g., door or window) of building 342.

As shown in FIG. 8B, dwelling unit 304 is then lifted off of trailer 308, such as with a crane or other suitable lifting mechanism 350, and placed on foundational support system 344. Metal support frame 316 is lifted off of chassis 312 and placed on joists 348. Preferably, the distance between joists 348 is the same as the distance between points of support on chassis 312. Once secured on foundational support system 344, trailer 308 may be removed from the premises and connector 302 may be installed between dwelling unit 304 and building 342 to form a passageway between rear 320 of dwelling unit 304 and building 342. In addition to providing access, connector 302 may also be used for connecting electrical, water, and other utilities from building 342 to dwelling unit 304. In addition, an access ramp (not shown) may be installed on front 324 of dwelling unit 304.

Connector 302 is installed (as shown in FIG. 9B) to provide ready access between dwelling unit 304 and building 342. As shown in FIG. 9A, a plurality of structural framing members 352 (e.g., 352a), such as telescoping metal scaffolding units, are secured to dwelling unit 304 and building 342 to provide top, bottom and side framing for connector 302. Use of telescoping scaffolding members allows for quick and inexpensive installation of connector 302 when the precise distance between dwelling unit 304 and building 342 may vary depending on the site.

FIG. 10A shows connector 302 being installed on dwelling unit 304. The plurality of telescoping framing members 352 (e.g., 352a-352c) are attached on one end around door 336 on rear 320 of dwelling unit 304 and on the other end around an opening of building 342 (not shown in FIGS. 10A-10C for clarity) via a suitable mechanism, such as fasteners 354 (e.g., 354a shown in FIG. 10B). A wall telescoping member mounting frame 353 or other suitable structure is used for securing and supporting telescoping frame members. To complete connector 302 (shown in FIG. 10C) once telescoping frame members 352 are in place, appropriate materials are installed around framing members 352. For example, as shown in FIGS. 11A-11B, connector 302 may be constructed using framing members 352 for the floor, sides, and roof. On the interior side, finish panels 356 (356a, ceiling; 356b, floor; 356c-d356c, side) are attached to respective framing members 352 (e.g., 352a, 352c, 352d). A decorative panel 358 and/or wainscoting may be attached to finish panels 356. To the outside side on the side portion of connector 302, an outer panel 360 is attached to framing members 352 followed by foam insulation 362. Strapping boards or exterior space boards 364 (e.g., 364a) are secured in front of insulation 362 to allow siding 366 to be attached. Similarly, roof framing members 352 (e.g., 352a) may have a finish panel 356a attached on the inside and to the outside insulation 370 followed by a roof membrane 372. Optionally, curved profiles 374 may be included. Finally, for the floor section, a finish panel 356b may be placed over framing members 352. Beneath floor framing members 352, joists 378 (e.g., 378a) added to provide additional carrying capacity and to avoid any springiness. Under that, a wood floor panel 376 and foam insulation 380 may be added, followed by strapping boards or exterior spacing boards 382, to which finish siding 384 may be attached.

Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, a connector may be quickly and inexpensively installed across a variable distance using telescoping metal scaffolding support members to make up a telescoping connector floor, sides, and roof having gaps not less than two inches to allow for a wire or plumbing chase. The inside finish will provide a clear five foot width throughout the connector. The interior length can be telescopically adjusted from, for example, 5 to 9 feet. A layer of ¼ inch thick birch veneer plywood wainscot wall panels can be used to repeat a similar scallop design that can be used in the bedroom area. The ceiling can be finished with a continuous layer of fire treated black burlap wrapped over the exposed face of one inch mineral wool boards that are mechanically fastened with wall washers to strapping between the gaps of the telescoping scaffolding assemblies. The exterior finish may have exterior continuously applied insulation, such as three inch thick fire resistant foam insulation polyisocyanurate boards with taped joints on all four exterior faces of the connector. The roof can include an additional curved one inch thick foam board bent over a one inch centered 5/4×2 blocking top to create a slight barrel vaulted one inch height in the center. This will be topped with a single ply fully adhered membrane roof applied over the foam and wrapped over the top wall fascia with a metal drip. The exterior wall and bottom plane will be faced with a horizontally applied wood 1×3 finished applied over rain-screen strapping. Alternatively, the connector may be supported on a plurality of posts.

If access is desired to the existing building through the opening enclosed by the connector without the need to go through the dwelling unit, the connector may include an exterior door on one or both of the sidewalls. An entry ramp, stoop, or steps may be added in front of such a door as needed.

FIG. 12A is a cut-away view through dwelling unit 304 and connector 302. A bedroom area is defined by front 324, first side 328, and rear 320 and may include a foldout desk or table 386 attached to the interior wall of rear 320. In addition, a bedroom window may wrap around a corner formed by first side 328 and front 324. A ceiling 388 may include a plurality of panels forming a first portion 388a and a second portion 388b, where second portion 388b angles upwardly from first portion 388a toward front 324. Further, a hoist system 392 may be included that runs from the bedroom area to the bathroom area (which is seen in FIG. 12B), and is preferably disposed between first portion 388a and second portion 388b of ceiling 388 and some of the mechanical components may be located above ceiling 388. As can be seen in FIG. 12B, a roll in shower with flush flooring epoxy and wood flooring without a threshold is included so that the bathroom area is wheelchair accessible. A drain pipe (not shown) may run from dwelling unit 304 to the ground to connect with the existing sewage system of building 342.

Turning to FIG. 13, a cut-away view of a roof panel 400 and a portion of hoist system 392 is shown. Roof panel 400 includes a roof membrane 404, a vent space 408 beneath roof membrane 404, an upper support layer 412, a lower support layer 416, and a structural insulated panel 420 between upper support layer 412 and lower support layer 416. These support layers may be any suitable material and may preferably be plywood, in which case no additional supporting material is required apart from structural insulated panel 420 to form roof panel 400.

Hoist track system 392 is supported by blocking, such as track framing 424 (e.g., 424a, 424b), which may be 2×8 boards connected to roof panel 400 via through bolts 428 (428a, 428b) (such as ½ inch through-bolts) attached at one end to upper layer 412 of roof panel 400 and extending through lower layer 416 and then at least partially into track framing 424. One or more blocks 432 (e.g., 432a-432c) may be disposed between track framing 424 to further stabilize the system. Hoist system 392 includes a rail track 436 that is disposed between track framing 424 and may be further secured by a screw 426 or similar engaged through blocks 432, and preferably screw 426 does not extend past block 432a. Rail track 436 supports a hoist engagement member, such as a nylon wheel truck assembly 440, that conveys along rail track 436. Truck assembly 440 is connected to a lift 444 via any suitable component such as a carabiner 448. Preferably, track framing 424, rail track 436, and truck assembly 440 are substantially located above ceiling 388 to provide a less industrial appearance. In addition, hoist system 392 may include a rope (not shown) or similar mechanism that allows an occupant of lift 444 to move between the bedroom area and the bathroom area simply by pulling on the rope. In this way, a built-in hoist track system is provided for a fraction of the cost of conventional systems.

A side view of trailer 308 is shown in FIG. 14A in which trailer 308 is set to serve as a temporary foundation for dwelling unit 304. In this configuration, chassis 312 is supported by a plurality of bolted on scissor style jacks 454 (e.g., 454a-454d as seen in FIGS. 14A-14B and 15A). Support frame 316 may be 2 inch by 3 inch by ¼ inch hollow structural steel tubing or similar.

FIG. 15A is a perspective view of trailer 308 with support frame 316 shown above chassis 312 for clarity and without a dwelling unit on it. Chassis 312 preferably has 3 inch channel cross members with 6 inch frame and tongue. Grade 8 hardware may be used in anchor holes that are located in six locations spaced four feet around the perimeter of chassis 312. One-quarter inch L-brackets 456 (e.g., 456a in FIG. 15B) are welded on support frame 316 and bolted to the six inch channel frame of chassis 312 when frame 316 is secured to trailer 308. FIG. 15C is a top view of trailer 308 with support frame 316 attached. FIG. 15D is a side view of trailer 308 with support frame 316 attached, FIG. 15E is a rear view of trailer 308 with support frame 316 attached, and FIG. 15F is a front view of trailer 308 with support frame 316 attached.

Turning to FIG. 16, structural insulated wall panels 460 (e.g., 460a, 460b) are secured with long fasteners 462 (e.g., 462a, 462b) in the corners of the dwelling to a full height common wood post 464 to minimize heat loss through thermal bridging.

In FIG. 17, a structural insulated floor panel 466 is shown secured to both a structural insulated wall panel 468a of the dwelling unit as well as support frame 316, which is in turn secured to chassis 312 of trailer 308 when the dwelling unit is temporarily installed.

The dwelling unit is constructed as a unitized shell with a continuous connection among a roof structural insulated panel 470 and a floor structural insulated panel 466 (as shown in FIG. 18) that are both secured to wall panels (e.g., 468b as shown in FIG. 18) to retain greater overall structural integrity during transportation. Structural support frame 316 remains affixed to the dwelling unit and can be unfastened from wheeled trailer chassis 312.

Exemplary embodiments have been disclosed above and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, omissions, and additions may be made to that which is specifically disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A wheelchair accessible home addition system comprising: a bottom support, the bottom support being attached to a chassis of a trailer during a temporary installation and being attached to a foundation during a permanent installation, wherein the bottom support overhangs the chassis in a direction along a wheel axle of the trailer;a dwelling unit attached to the bottom support, the dwelling unit including a floor, a roof, a front wall, a back wall, a first side wall, and a second side wall opposite the first side wall, wherein the roof includes a roof membrane, a vent space beneath the roof membrane, and a roof structural insulated panel, wherein the roof panel includes a first support layer, a second support layer, and an insulation layer between the first support layer and the second support layer;a ceiling beneath the second support layer, the ceiling including framing attached to the second support layer and ceiling boards attached to the framing, wherein the ceiling includes a first section and a second section, wherein the first section extends from the back wall to a first section edge, and wherein the second section extends at an upward angle from the first section edge to the front wall;a bedroom area in the dwelling unit, the bedroom area formed by the first side wall and portions of the front wall and the back wall;a bathroom area in the dwelling unit, the bathroom area being adjacent to the bedroom area and formed by the second side wall and portions of the front wall and the back wall;a hoist track system including a trolley system and a support system, wherein the trolley system includes a rail track extending directly and only from the bedroom area into the bathroom area, the rail track conveying a wheel truck assembly that supports and conveys a coupler for a lift, wherein the support system includes a first member attached to the roof panel via a plurality of bolts passing through the first support layer, the second support layer, and at least a portion of the first member, and a second member attached to the roof panel via a second plurality of bolts passing through the first support layer, the second support layer, and at least a portion of the second member, wherein the rail track is supported between the first member and the second member, wherein the hoist track system runs between the first ceiling section and the second ceiling section, and wherein the rail track, the first member, and the second member are located above the ceiling boards;a first exterior door in the front wall between the bedroom area and the bathroom area; anda second exterior door in the back wall between the bedroom area and the bathroom area.

2. The home addition system according to claim 1, further including a connector designed and configured to be removably attached when the home addition is installed on a first end to the back wall, the first end encompassing the second door, and designed and configured to be removably attached on a second end to an existing building, the second end being opposite the first end.

3. The home addition system according to claim 1, wherein the foundation includes a plurality of posts and a plurality of joists supported by the posts, and wherein, during the permanent installation, the bottom support is supported by the plurality of joists.

4. The home addition system according to claim 1, further including a single continuous structural insulated floor panel.

5. The home addition system according to claim 1, further including a block disposed beneath the second support layer and between the first member and the second member, wherein the block is configured to further stabilize the first member and the second member.

6. The home addition system according to claim 1, further including a window section in the bedroom area, the window section spanning across a corner formed by the front wall and the first side wall.

7. The home addition system according to claim 1, further including a table attached to the back wall in the bedroom area, the table being foldable between an open position and a closed position.

8. The home addition system according to claim 1, further including a drain pipe extending from the dwelling unit and connecting to a sewage system.

9. The home addition system according to claim 1, wherein the dwelling unit is constructed as a unitized shell with a continuous connection among the roof, the floor, the back wall, and the front wall via a structural insulated roof panel, a structural insulated floor panel, a structural insulated back wall panel, and a structural insulated front wall panel.

10. A wheelchair accessible home addition system comprising: a metal support frame designed and configured to be secured to a chassis of a trailer and designed and configured to be supported on a foundation when the frame is not secured to the trailer;a dwelling unit secured to the metal support frame, the dwelling unit having a front, a rear, a first side, a second side, and a roof, and including a bedroom area defined by the front, the rear, and the first side and a bathroom area defined by the front, the rear, and the second side, wherein the bathroom area is adjacent to the bedroom area and wherein the dwelling unit further includes: a hoist track system including a track running directly and only between the bedroom area and the bathroom area,a first door on the front, anda second door on the rear; anda connector having a connector roof, a floor, a first side wall, and a second side wall, wherein the connector is attached on a first end to an outside of the rear of the dwelling unit, the first end surrounding the second door, and on a second end to an existing building.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the connector includes a plurality of telescoping metal scaffolding support members, each of the plurality of telescoping support members secured on one end to the rear of the dwelling unit and on an opposite end to the existing building, wherein at least one of the telescoping support members is in the connector roof, the floor, the first side wall, and the second side wall, and wherein each telescoping support member is adjustable during installation between a length of six feet and a length of nine feet.

12. A wheelchair accessible home addition system comprising: a bottom support, the bottom support being a metal frame;a dwelling unit on the bottom support, the dwelling unit including a roof panel, a front wall, a back wall, a first side wall, and a second side wall opposite the first side wall and including: a bedroom area formed by the first side wall and portions of the front wall and the back wall,a bathroom area adjacent to the bedroom area and formed by the second side wall and portions of the front wall and the back wall,a hoist track system attached only to the roof panel, the hoist track system including a track extending directly and only between the bedroom area and the bathroom area,a first exterior door in the front wall between the bedroom area and the bathroom area, anda second exterior door in the back wall between the bedroom area and the bathroom area; anda connector attached on a first end to an outside of the back wall of the dwelling unit, the first end surrounding the second door, and on a second end to an existing building, wherein the connector includes a plurality of telescoping metal scaffolding support members, each of the plurality of telescoping support members secured on one end to the rear of the dwelling unit and on an opposite end to the existing building.

13. The system according to claim 12, further including a ceiling attached to the roof panel, wherein the ceiling includes a first section and a second section, wherein the first section extends from the back wall to a first section edge, and wherein the second section extends at an upward angle from the first section edge to the front wall.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein the track is disposed between the first section and the second section of the ceiling.

15. The system according to claim 14, wherein the track is attached to a plurality of support members, the plurality of support members being attached to the roof panel and located between the roof panel and the ceiling.

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein the plurality of support members are each secured to the roof panel via a plurality of through-bolts, wherein the track is secured to the plurality of support members, wherein the track supports a trolley, the trolley including nylon wheels, and wherein the trolley is connected to a carabiner that supports a lift.

17. The system according to claim 16, further including a rope extending from the bedroom area and the bathroom area and positioned such that an occupant on the lift pulling on the rope moves the trolley along the track.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the connector includes a connector first side wall, a connector second side wall, a connector roof, and a connector floor, and wherein at least one of the telescoping support members is in the connector roof, the connector floor, the connector first side wall, and the connector second side wall.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein each of the plurality of telescoping support member has an adjustable length during installation.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein the length is adjustable between a length of five feet and a length of nine feet.