CA2720520A1 - Combo wood and plastic modular storage shed - Google Patents
Combo wood and plastic modular storage shed Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2720520A1 CA2720520A1 CA 2720520 CA2720520A CA2720520A1 CA 2720520 A1 CA2720520 A1 CA 2720520A1 CA 2720520 CA2720520 CA 2720520 CA 2720520 A CA2720520 A CA 2720520A CA 2720520 A1 CA2720520 A1 CA 2720520A1
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- panels
- assembly
- panel
- utility shed
- floor
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/343—Structures characterised by movable, separable, or collapsible parts, e.g. for transport
- E04B1/34315—Structures characterised by movable, separable, or collapsible parts, e.g. for transport characterised by separable parts
- E04B1/34321—Structures characterised by movable, separable, or collapsible parts, e.g. for transport characterised by separable parts mainly constituted by panels
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
- E04H1/00—Buildings or groups of buildings for dwelling or office purposes; General layout, e.g. modular co-ordination or staggered storeys
- E04H1/12—Small buildings or other erections for limited occupation, erected in the open air or arranged in buildings, e.g. kiosks, waiting shelters for bus stops or for filling stations, roofs for railway platforms, watchmen's huts or dressing cubicles
- E04H1/1205—Small buildings erected in the open air
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Electromagnetism (AREA)
- Joining Of Building Structures In Genera (AREA)
Abstract
The present invention provides a system or kit which includes wood and plastic components or plastic components only. These components can be readily assembled to form a structure with the use of a minimal number of tools. The components are precut so that measurements and cutting of the component materials is eliminated. This leads to a savings in wasted materials. The components are readily assembled using conventional fasteners and simple band tools. The components have preformed notches and tabs in order to facilitate assembly of the components without the requirement for measurements. This assures that the components will be assembled correctly and eliminates the opportunity for inaccurate measurements and incorrect assembly. The roof and floor structures are formed from plastic panels which interlock together.
Description
COMBO WOOD AND PLASTIC MODUI A' õ 1TC RAGE SHED
FIELD OF TI}IE INVEN ION
[0001] This invention relates generally to enclos I s, uc i as utility or garden sheds, III
constructed of wood and plastic materials- Moire specifically,, e 1 resent invention relates to an enclosure including walls having wood framing and wood Sidi g, i plastic panel roofing, and a '..j floor made from plastic panels.
BACKGROUND by THE lV'Eiv; IO v [0002] Utility sheds are a necessity'orl lawn and gardeli m tintenance, as well as general all-around home storage space. Typically, items such as la'n ; nowers, garden tillers, snow blowers, wheel barrows, shovels, rakes, brooms and the like c u ne a great deal o 11 floor space in a garage. This results in the homeowner parking;hislher,vehj~les outside of the garage.
[00031 The prior art has proposed a number of Jiff exinjsto -age buildings or utility sheds assembled from a kit which includes a plurality of blow molcl4d (r extruded plastic panels and connectors. These kits are readily assembled by ':a hompow~er o form storage structures or utility sheds of various sizes. Those structures-are generally, suj{.abl r for the storage of hand tools and smaller lawn equipment. Typically, these kits require e~ Iud ,d metal or plastic connector n j pis members having a specific cross-sectional geometry whi la a ili ates an engagement between the connector members and one or more of the blow olc ed plastic ,panels having a complimentary edge configuration. Due to the nature of le nanufacturin'g process, blotiv molded plastic components cannot be formed with the ntn~te shapes and/or sharp comets = I. fl~ i required for integrated connectors. In addition, blow molded ~f'ast c components are'hollow amid Mcliale R Slavin, P.A.
Atty. Docket No. = 1251.774 I I
cannot be formed with the integral strengthening ribs and guq ets that injection molded panel's can be formed with.
I I
[0004] A particularly common structure for the cosineOor nembers is the I-beam cross section. The I-beam defines free edge portions, of the Con ect Ir member which fit within approximately dimensioned and located slots in the panel nneml~cn U.S. Patent No. D-371,20$
teaches a corner extrusion for a building sidevrail that is represent hive of the state of the art I-beam connector members. The I-beam sides of the connectoi, , ~nj age with the peripheral edge channels of a respective wall panel, and therebX serve to join sajjh F unels together at right angles-! L
Straight or in-line versions of the connector members are also khch ded in the kits to join panels in a coplanar relationship to create walls of var'ing Iletlgth_ [0005] Extruded components generally require hollow Jgng tudinal conduits for strength.
Due to the nature of the manufacturing process, the census s, ar( difficult to extrude in long sections for structural panels. Thus, the panels!requiie conn;ectbrs t) achieve adequate height for utility shed walls. A common structure for connecting y ie~true~~d i rernbErs has a center 1-beam with upper and lower protrusions for engaging t~e conduits. He wever, wall panels utilizing connectors are vulnerable to buckling under loads and n4ay 1av4 an aesthetically unpleasing appearance. Moreover, roof loads from snow and the like ma y cause such walls to bow outwardly due to the clearances required between.the corriect f is rnd the internal bores of the conduits- U_S_ Patent No. 6,250,022 discloses; an extendable '$ ed utilizing side wall connector members representing the state of the art. The coy nectbrs. if avi ' a center strip with hollow protrusions extending from its upper and lower surfaces dlon its length. The protrusions are situated to slidably engage the conduits located in the side panel sections to create the height required for utility shed walls.
MCHaie & Stavin, P.A. ~
Auy, Docket No. - 1251.774 it iaI~, 100061 The aforementioned systems can also incor r~4 ro )f and floor panels to form a freestanding enclosed structure such as a utility shed. U.S. l' ten Nos. 3,866,381; 5,036,634;
! I I
and 4,557,091 disclose various systems having;, inter~-fitting ncl and connector components.
4Such prior art systems, while working well, have not met 1 of the needs of consumers to III
provide the structural integrity required to construct larger si-'d ;
tructures. Larger structures must perform differently than smaller structures- l rgger strict i quire constant ventilation in order to control moisture within the structure. iJarge struc re nu ;t also withstand larger wind and snow loads compared to smaller structures. Paramount toy ach eying these needs is a panel i , system which eliminates the need for extruded connectors to c~4ate enclosure walls which resist Ii~
panel separation, buckling, racking, and a roof system which allow;
ventilation while preventing 'III
weather infiltration. A further problem is that the walls f tm c b~ the panels must tie into the roof and floor in such a way as to unify the 'entire structure. Also, from a structural standpoint, the structure should include components capable of withst ndi{1g ty to increased wind, snow and storage loads required by larger structures. From a con' en hce standpoint, a door must be present which can be readily installed after assembly of the;walj anc roof components. The door must also be comparable with the sidewalls end providd `rel y -cress to the interior of the structure. Also, from a convenience standpoint, tF a structurqliho1 ild permit natural as well as artificial lighting. The structure should be aesthetically pleasini in appearance to blend in with the surrounding structures.
[0007] There are also commercial considerations ghat Ow t be satisfied by any viable structure assembly system or kit; considerations which are noI Lnt rely satisfied by the state of the art products. The structure must be formed from r~Iat& ly few components' which are inexpensive to manufacture by conventional techniques. The er~clc sure must also be capable of McHa[a & 5lavin, P.A.
Atty_ Docket No. - 1251.774 ~ t being packaged and shipped in a knock-down state. In addilion , the system or kit must be modular and facilitate the creation of a family of enclosures at nary in size.
but which share common, interchangeable components.
[00081 Finally, there are ergonomic needs that an ei~cla a system must satisfy in order to achieve acceptance by the end user. The system must be ea6lly ind quickly assembled using integrally formed connectors requiring minimal hardware and ! tool :. , Further, the system must not require excessive strength to assemble or;include heavy ~ml onent parts.
Moreover, the system must assemble together in such a way so' as not'to 16tra A from the internal storage volume of the resulting enclosure, or otherwise detract from tli in :ernal storage volume of the resulting enclosure, or otherwise negatively affect tl1e utility., of e s ructure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVE~11+11 100091 The present invention provides a system or;kit R4 hie h includes wood and plastic components or plastic components only. These component. ca;n be readily assembled to form a structure with the use of a minimal number! of tools. The: cor iponents are precut so that measurements and cutting of the component materials is elite ate(. This leads to al lsavings in wasted materials- The components are readily assembled uS kng conventional fasteners and simple hand tools. The components have, preformed notch an I tabs in order to facilitate .a assembly of the components without the requirement for idea. Tres cents. Thi assures that the components will be assembled correctly and eliniina~es be opportunity for inaccurate measurements and incorrect assembly. The roof and floor silr1-cti res are formed Born' plastic panels which interlock together.
FIELD OF TI}IE INVEN ION
[0001] This invention relates generally to enclos I s, uc i as utility or garden sheds, III
constructed of wood and plastic materials- Moire specifically,, e 1 resent invention relates to an enclosure including walls having wood framing and wood Sidi g, i plastic panel roofing, and a '..j floor made from plastic panels.
BACKGROUND by THE lV'Eiv; IO v [0002] Utility sheds are a necessity'orl lawn and gardeli m tintenance, as well as general all-around home storage space. Typically, items such as la'n ; nowers, garden tillers, snow blowers, wheel barrows, shovels, rakes, brooms and the like c u ne a great deal o 11 floor space in a garage. This results in the homeowner parking;hislher,vehj~les outside of the garage.
[00031 The prior art has proposed a number of Jiff exinjsto -age buildings or utility sheds assembled from a kit which includes a plurality of blow molcl4d (r extruded plastic panels and connectors. These kits are readily assembled by ':a hompow~er o form storage structures or utility sheds of various sizes. Those structures-are generally, suj{.abl r for the storage of hand tools and smaller lawn equipment. Typically, these kits require e~ Iud ,d metal or plastic connector n j pis members having a specific cross-sectional geometry whi la a ili ates an engagement between the connector members and one or more of the blow olc ed plastic ,panels having a complimentary edge configuration. Due to the nature of le nanufacturin'g process, blotiv molded plastic components cannot be formed with the ntn~te shapes and/or sharp comets = I. fl~ i required for integrated connectors. In addition, blow molded ~f'ast c components are'hollow amid Mcliale R Slavin, P.A.
Atty. Docket No. = 1251.774 I I
cannot be formed with the integral strengthening ribs and guq ets that injection molded panel's can be formed with.
I I
[0004] A particularly common structure for the cosineOor nembers is the I-beam cross section. The I-beam defines free edge portions, of the Con ect Ir member which fit within approximately dimensioned and located slots in the panel nneml~cn U.S. Patent No. D-371,20$
teaches a corner extrusion for a building sidevrail that is represent hive of the state of the art I-beam connector members. The I-beam sides of the connectoi, , ~nj age with the peripheral edge channels of a respective wall panel, and therebX serve to join sajjh F unels together at right angles-! L
Straight or in-line versions of the connector members are also khch ded in the kits to join panels in a coplanar relationship to create walls of var'ing Iletlgth_ [0005] Extruded components generally require hollow Jgng tudinal conduits for strength.
Due to the nature of the manufacturing process, the census s, ar( difficult to extrude in long sections for structural panels. Thus, the panels!requiie conn;ectbrs t) achieve adequate height for utility shed walls. A common structure for connecting y ie~true~~d i rernbErs has a center 1-beam with upper and lower protrusions for engaging t~e conduits. He wever, wall panels utilizing connectors are vulnerable to buckling under loads and n4ay 1av4 an aesthetically unpleasing appearance. Moreover, roof loads from snow and the like ma y cause such walls to bow outwardly due to the clearances required between.the corriect f is rnd the internal bores of the conduits- U_S_ Patent No. 6,250,022 discloses; an extendable '$ ed utilizing side wall connector members representing the state of the art. The coy nectbrs. if avi ' a center strip with hollow protrusions extending from its upper and lower surfaces dlon its length. The protrusions are situated to slidably engage the conduits located in the side panel sections to create the height required for utility shed walls.
MCHaie & Stavin, P.A. ~
Auy, Docket No. - 1251.774 it iaI~, 100061 The aforementioned systems can also incor r~4 ro )f and floor panels to form a freestanding enclosed structure such as a utility shed. U.S. l' ten Nos. 3,866,381; 5,036,634;
! I I
and 4,557,091 disclose various systems having;, inter~-fitting ncl and connector components.
4Such prior art systems, while working well, have not met 1 of the needs of consumers to III
provide the structural integrity required to construct larger si-'d ;
tructures. Larger structures must perform differently than smaller structures- l rgger strict i quire constant ventilation in order to control moisture within the structure. iJarge struc re nu ;t also withstand larger wind and snow loads compared to smaller structures. Paramount toy ach eying these needs is a panel i , system which eliminates the need for extruded connectors to c~4ate enclosure walls which resist Ii~
panel separation, buckling, racking, and a roof system which allow;
ventilation while preventing 'III
weather infiltration. A further problem is that the walls f tm c b~ the panels must tie into the roof and floor in such a way as to unify the 'entire structure. Also, from a structural standpoint, the structure should include components capable of withst ndi{1g ty to increased wind, snow and storage loads required by larger structures. From a con' en hce standpoint, a door must be present which can be readily installed after assembly of the;walj anc roof components. The door must also be comparable with the sidewalls end providd `rel y -cress to the interior of the structure. Also, from a convenience standpoint, tF a structurqliho1 ild permit natural as well as artificial lighting. The structure should be aesthetically pleasini in appearance to blend in with the surrounding structures.
[0007] There are also commercial considerations ghat Ow t be satisfied by any viable structure assembly system or kit; considerations which are noI Lnt rely satisfied by the state of the art products. The structure must be formed from r~Iat& ly few components' which are inexpensive to manufacture by conventional techniques. The er~clc sure must also be capable of McHa[a & 5lavin, P.A.
Atty_ Docket No. - 1251.774 ~ t being packaged and shipped in a knock-down state. In addilion , the system or kit must be modular and facilitate the creation of a family of enclosures at nary in size.
but which share common, interchangeable components.
[00081 Finally, there are ergonomic needs that an ei~cla a system must satisfy in order to achieve acceptance by the end user. The system must be ea6lly ind quickly assembled using integrally formed connectors requiring minimal hardware and ! tool :. , Further, the system must not require excessive strength to assemble or;include heavy ~ml onent parts.
Moreover, the system must assemble together in such a way so' as not'to 16tra A from the internal storage volume of the resulting enclosure, or otherwise detract from tli in :ernal storage volume of the resulting enclosure, or otherwise negatively affect tl1e utility., of e s ructure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVE~11+11 100091 The present invention provides a system or;kit R4 hie h includes wood and plastic components or plastic components only. These component. ca;n be readily assembled to form a structure with the use of a minimal number! of tools. The: cor iponents are precut so that measurements and cutting of the component materials is elite ate(. This leads to al lsavings in wasted materials- The components are readily assembled uS kng conventional fasteners and simple hand tools. The components have, preformed notch an I tabs in order to facilitate .a assembly of the components without the requirement for idea. Tres cents. Thi assures that the components will be assembled correctly and eliniina~es be opportunity for inaccurate measurements and incorrect assembly. The roof and floor silr1-cti res are formed Born' plastic panels which interlock together.
McHale & Slavii , P.A.
Any, fDockel No. - 1251.774 [0010] Accordingly, it is an objective df the, instant inventi' 'Ti to provide a system or kit for assembly of a utility enclosure which utilizes precut wool 14nd plastic components to create structures of varying dimensions by using common ebmpo ent4 [0911] It is a further objective of the instant invlvnticj tc provide a utility enclosure system or kit which utilizes plastic components to secure14nd connect wood components together.
I= I3 [0012] It is yet another objective of the instant inventi'n t) provide a utili enclosure system or kit which utilizes plastic structural frame and panel members having integrated connectors for creating enclosures of varying sizes.
,d [0013] It is a still further objective of the instant in enta n o provide a utility enclosure system or kit wherein the panel members include integrated con: lectors which accommodate plastic formation of the panel components for increased structural in egrity_ [0014] It is still another objective of the instant inven n t provide a utility enclosure system or kit which utilizes structural corner assemblies for'inc4se l enclosure rigidity.
[0015] It is stall another objective of thei,instant invention t provide a utility enclosure II,II : 11 system or kit which utilizes interlocking bosses and pocket to cu a wall panels to a floor ascadi or roof 13.
]0016] It is still another objective of the instant invenn ,n t) provide a utility enclosure system or kit which utilizes roof and floor components which!
ntc rlock together for structural stability and the prevention of incursion of water into the enl losi e.
[0017] Other objects and advantages of thl inve n ioril luil' become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with any accomp layir g drawings wherein are set forth, by way of illustration and example, certain embodiments:;: of tl.is invention. Any drawings McHHnle & Slavin, PA
Any. Docket No. -1251.774 contained herein constitute a part of this specificatiob and i' lul e e :emplary embodiments of the ,II
present invention and illustrate various objects and features;ther of BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE F1 R -'-S
100181 FIGURE 1 is a front perspiective view of a .first embodiment of the present invention;
[0019] FIGURES 2A-F are views of side and back p 41s :)f a first embodiment of the present invention;
[00201 FIGURES 3A-C are perspectiv j views of thie :Ogor a 3sembly and the interlocking connection of the floor components of a first erg bodiment of th we eut invention;
100211 FIGURES 4A and B are views of the assembly and c nnnection of the rear panel t I
the floor assembly of a first embodiment of the present invejntiof II
i [0022] FIGURES 5A-D are views of the assembly and 4nn :ction of the rightside panel I
to the floor assembly of a first embodiment of the present itive4Iion;
[0023] FIGURES 6A and B are views. of the assembly; an connection of the left sid panels to the floor assembly and rear panel of a'firsi embodmmnr . of he present invention;
[00241 FIGURES 7A-C are views of th$ essembly and nni .ction of the right side panel to the floor assembly and another side panel of a first embodime 't o the present invention;
II ' [0025] FIGURES 8A and B are views of the assembly 1nd connection of the right aid panels to each other of a first embodiment of the present invetltin;
[0026] FIGURES 9A and B are views of the asse6bl'yi,an, I connection of the left side panels to each other of a first embodiment of the present in~enti i;
[0027] FIGURES 1OA-C are views of the assembly artd!~on Lection of the left side panels to each other of a first embodiment of the present invention;
MCHake & Slavin, P.A.
Any. Docket No. - 1251.774 ,, [0028] FIGURES 11A-D are details of the left side pa~eIs of a first embodiment of the present invention;
[0029] FIGURES 12A and B are details of the conneioon between the side panels and rear panels of a first embodiment of the present iinvention;
[0030] FIGURES 13A-C are views of the assembly and'; on sections of the roof assembly to the side panels of a first embodiment of the present invenltiorip [0031] FIGURES 14A and 13 are views of the, a5,em )ly and connection of the components of the roof assembly to each other of a first em d"i . en of the present invention;
[0032] FIGURES 15A-D are views of the assembly Td onnections of the left door pane] to the side panels of a first embodiment of the present'inv tic n;
[0033] FIGURES 16A and B are details of the connecti,60 o: a handle to the left door of a first embodiment of the present invention;
[0034] FIGURES 17A-D are views of'the assembly a d c )nnections of the "right door panel to the side panels of a first embodiment of the presen inv tic n;
[0035] FIGURES 18A and B are details of a roof upprt )f a first embodiment of the present invention;
[0036] FIGURES 19A and B are details; of a roof up rt f a first embodiment of the present invention;
[0037] FIGURES 20A and B are details of a roof sLipp* a Zd the fasteners employed to secure it to the utility enclosure of a first embodiment of tht present invention;
[0038] FIGURE 21 is a front perspective view of ~a se n' embodiment of the present invention;
ti McHalc & Stavin, P.A
Any. Docket No. - 1251.714 [0039] FIGURES 22A and B are perspective view of ci irner panel secured to a side panel; ' [0040] FIGURES 23A and B are perspective views of e'l rner panel secured to a side panel;
[0041) FIGURE 24 is a view of an inside of a side p a twit t additional braces;
-Cl [0042] FIGURE 25 is a perspective view of one of t btce I in Fig_ 24;
[00431 FIGURES 26A and B are perspective views of 'de panel and a face frame;
[0044] FIGURES 27A and Bare detailed views of,' a *ae hment of the face frame to a corner panel;
[0045) FIGURE 28 is a perspective view of a top co dnec or Ind a side panel;
[0046] FIGURES 29A and B are views of a top con>lecto~ se cured to a side panel;
[0047] FIGURE 30 is a perspective view of a bottom cop ec for and a side panel;
[0048] FIGURE 31 is a perspective view of a bottoiti' pai>oel s ecured to a side panel;
[0049] FIGURE 32 is a perspective view of a filler loardbe weer two back panels;
[0050] FIGURES 33A and B are perspedtive viewsof t'e f Her board of Fig_ 32 secured to the two back panels;
[0051) FIGURRE 34 is a perspective view of support bres secured to the back panels;
[0052] FIGURE 35 is a perspective view of a support br,'ce;
[0053] FIGURE 36 is a perspective view of a bottojm 4znm ctor being securdd to one of the back panels;
[0054] FIGURE 37 is a perspective view of the bgttorhj co Ynectors secured to the back panels;
[0055] FIGURES 38A and B are views of the back paneil'}be; ng secured to a floor panel;
McHale & slavin. P.A. ~
Atty. Oockc No. -1251.774 i I~' [0056], FIGURE 39 is a perspective view of the bac page] ;vied to a floor panel;
[0057] FIGURE 40 is a perspective view otf a side and or ter panels being secured to a floor panel;
[0058] FIGURE 41 is a perspective view oF1 a sidei ands or ter panels being secured to a floor panel;
[0059] FIGURE 42 is a perspective view of a side," coder, and back panels secured to a floor panel;
[0060] FIGURE 43 is a top perspective rriety of the side, cc mer and back panels secured to the floor panel;
10061] FIGURES 44A and B are top perspective viewsi of t to top connectors of the back and side panels;
[0062] FIGURES 45A and 8 arc top ; perspective vieb>'s c f the header being installed between the side panels;
ICI :
[0063] FIGURE 46 is a perspective view of the rooi.pan l;
[0064] FIGURE 47 is a cross sectionajl view of the r t f ecurement taken along lines I.
A-A in Fig. 21;
[0065] FIGURE 48 is a cross sectional view of the oof ,Pei; cement taken along ]hies B-B
in Fig. 21; [0066] FIGURES 49A and B are views of hinges on'the,'eft door, [00671 FIGURES 50A and B are views,of hinges onthe Left door;
[0068] FIGURE 51 Is a view of a handle being uastdledj on 17e left door;
[0069] FIGURES 52A and B are views, with the back an, Is removed, of tli~
slide bolt being installed on the left door;
9 i McHale & Slavin, P.A, Atty. Docket Nn. - 1251.774 [00701 FIGURE 53 is a view of a hasp to be install d 4'the doors;
[00711 FIGURE 54 is a view of the hasp and handl oil the doors; and 100721 FIGURE 55 is an exploded view of the second lem )odiment of the enclosure of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION'OF T , IN! Ei 3TION
[00731 While the present invention is susceptible o' en jx d ment in various fhrms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be described! p; esently preferred, albeit not limiting, embodiment with the understanding iihat the pre Onto 1sc osure is to be considered an exemplification of the present invention and is not i itended t6:1 mi the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated.
[0074] Figures 1-20B, which are now referenced, s~ ov sot ietric and exploded views of a system or kit for the assembly of a first embodiment, of 4te )resent invention. A utility enclosure or shed is generally illustrated at 10, , The eneldsut !'or ;lied 10 includes a right side wall assembly including right side front panel 12 and a'gl sid : rear panel 14, a back wall assembly including a back right panel 16 and a back left pinelj 3 8, md a left said wall assembly including a left side front panel 20 and a left side rear part I (F gs. 2A-F).
These panels are secured to one another in a m nner which will be desctibe lie reinaftcr.
Panels 12-22 are is secured to a floor assembly 24, Fig. 3A.
[00751 The floor assembly includes at least two flogs p eI: 26 and 28 whiehiare secured to each other to form the floor of the enclosure. As can b6;se it Figs. 3A-q, the floor panels 26 and 28 are secured to each other along a .longitudinai'ede c ' each panel.
Thc; panel 26 includes an upwardly facing groove 29, Fig- 3B, whic ex~ond; along a longi inal edge thereof Adjacent the groove 29 is a lip or upturned ridge 30.`he lip or ridge 30 extends along McHale & Slavin, P.A.
Atty. Docket No. -1251.774 I
the length of groove 29 and is adjacent thereto. Floor panel it eludes a downwardly facing Ili groove 32, Fig. 3B, which extends along a longitudinal edge,th eof Adjacent groove 32 is a lip or ridge 34 which extends along the length of the groove 32.' Lip 32 is constructed sized to mate with groove 29_ Lip 30 is constructed and sized to mate witl~Igrot ve 32. The structural inter-fitting of the lips into the grooves provides structural integrity d : upport for the connection of j1 1l the floor panels 26 and 28 to each other. Tlaisl structural; rel ion ship also provides a seal or boundary which prevents the intrusion of water or other fluidsi ron passing from the bottom of I ill the panels to the top of the panels. This structure therefore peu s water or other fluids from ~ry entering into the enclosure or shed from below- In addition,': fa, teners, such as screws, are utilized to connect the floor panels 26 and 28 together-[0076] Figs. 4A and B illustrate the manner in whiec," a zill ar i panel 16 is secured to a floor panel 26_ The rear panel 16 includes a plurality of tabs 36 orin, d o or secured along a bottom portion or edge. The tabs 36 are foamed as a curved lhei ber which includes a bend of substantially 90 degrees, as seen in Fig- 4B. A peripheral portion of both floor panels 26 and 28, include apertures or slots 38, Figs. 4A and B. The tabs 36'fit into, he apertures and engage the peripheral portion of the floor panel 26 to secure the rear panel~l 6 t nto the floor pane126. This engagement is accomplished by tilting the top of the rear p el i~l~fi d 7wnwardly prior to inserting I
the tabs 36 into the slots 38. Next, panel 16 is returned tQ; its upx ght, vertical position. This moves the outer edge 37 of tabs 36 below the peripheral portion of the floor panel and prevents the rear panel 16 from moving upwardly and thus becorrtin ict iihe i from the floor panel. Rear panel 16 also includes apertures 40 and 42 which rvilll be deScri d h ;reinafter [0077] A right side rear panel 14 is illustrated in Figs- A- 7. 11 is secured to the floor assembly 24 utilizing the same construction and elements that rearp mel 16 utilizes toibe secured McHale & Slavin, P.A, Any. Docker No, = 1251.774 If to the floor assembly 24. Tabs 44 on the bottom portion or Iowel ec ge of right side rear panel 14 fit into apertures or slots 46 on the peripheral portion of the,I qo69II,paj gel 26 to secure the right side rear panel 14 onto the floor panel 26. This engagern nt is acco pl: shed by tilting the top of the lip right side rear panel 14 downwardly prior to inserting the tabs) 14 i Ito the slots 46. Next, panel t 16 is returned to its upright, vertical position. Thi 'moves the Out, :r edge of tabs 44 below the peripheral portion of the floor panel and prevents ,the right de rear panel 14 from moving upwardly and thus becoming detached from the floor peel; R ght ! side rear panel 14 also includes a corner member or flap 48 (Fig. 5B)II which is h; ` gediy , ecured to panel 14 along an edge portion. Cotner member 48 engages and is secured along l e Age 50 of rear panel 16 (Fig, 5C). Corner member 48 fits into a groove 52 which extends' al14g tie edge 50.
This enables the outer surface of the comer member 48 to be flash with the out si rfaee of rear panel 16. This presents an aesthetically pleasing appearance to the outer postuli of the enclosure 10. Fastening elements 54, such as screws, are employed to secure corner Amt or 48 to rear panel 16- The I
fastening elements 54 pass through the apertures 40 in panel 1 an I engage comer member 48, thus securing panels 16 and 14 to each other,, as iillustratdd i l'Fit _ 6A A
tool 56, such as a screwdriver, is employed to connect fastening elements 54 tl' pa~iel ' 4.
]0078] A right side front panel 12 and right side rear p el 14 are illustrated in Figs. 7A
~~ III
and 8A. The right side front panel 12 includes a plurality, of! f bs 58 on the bottom portion or I Ij lower edge of right side front panel 12 which fit into ap tt4s r slots 60 on the; peripheral portion of the floor panel 28 to secure the right side front pnrnell 2, Pnto the floor panel 28. This engagement is accomplished in a manner similar to the set u i ' a panel 14 to floor panel 26.
The right side front panel 12 includes a groove 62 which te s long the length of the panel.
The right side rear panel 14 includes a groove 64 which extends a long the length of the panel.
M01I & Stavin. P,A. I
My. Pocket No, - 1251.774 Grooves 62 and 64 are constructed and arranged to mate With,4acl other so as to enable panels I.
12 and 14 to be joined together. The grooves 62 and 64 fort ,r F -ovide a connection between panels 12 and 14 which does not distract froth the inner or a ter surfaces of the panels. The grooves also present an aesthetically pleasing appearance ofl si ogle said wall of the utility enclosure- Fasteners 54 are utilized to secure panels 12 and 14; ge her, as illustrated in Figs. 8A
and B. Fasteners 54 pass through apertures 40 in' panel 12 a d a -e screwed in panel 14, thus securing panels 12 and 14 together.
[0079] Figs. 9A and B illustrate the right arld left barckIIan( Is 1,6 and 18 secured to floor panel 26. The back panel 18 is secured to the floor panel iiizLng 1 tbs 36 on the back panel and I
apertures 38 on the floor panel 26; similar to Khe manner to liicl back panel 16 is secured to floor panel 26. Back panels 16 and 18 also include groov ;s air t 68 respectively;;along their length. Grooves 66 and 68 are constructed and arranged t'p mii to with each other in a manner similar to grooves 62 and 64. Fasteners 54 pass through a ern fires 40 in panel 16 and are ~a ill screwed into panel 18 so as to secure panels 16 and: 19 togee~! Th s connection is similar to the connection which joins panels 12 and 14 together.
i I! pai eels 20 and 22 to each other, 10080] Figs- I OA-C describe the connection of left: sid' and their installation onto floor panels 26 and 28. Left side f c t p; nel 20 includes a plurality of ' II; ti tabs 70 formed to or secured along a bottom portion or edge. , he abs 70 are similar to tabs 36 on panel 16. Tabs 70 fit into apertures 72 on floor panel ~8. 1~anu 1 20 is secured to,;floor panel 26 in a manner similar to that of panel 16 being secured to flr)a11 ar 5126.
Left side rear panel 22 also includes tabs (not shown) along a bottom portion thdreo T ese tabs fit into apertures in floor panel 28 and thus secure panel 22 to floor panel 28 in a' rr~nn r similar to that employed to secure panel 20 to floor panel 26. Left side panels 20 and; 2 ncludc channels 74 and 76, McH ile 4, 513vin, P.A.
nRy, p4xt<cE No. -1zs1.77a ' III
respectively, which extend along their length. Channels 74 ana!76 are constructed and arranged to mate with each other so as to enable panels -~0 and 22 t¾Xbe;oir, -d'together. The grooves 74 and 76 further provide a connection between panels 20 and ' 22] tvhi -,h does not distract from the inner or outer surfaces of the panels. The ~ grooves also irese at an aesthetically pleasing appearance of a single said wall of the utility enclosure- F ten vs 54 are utilized to secure panels 20 and 22 together. Fasteners 54 pass through aperture; 0 i 1 panel 22 and are screwed in panel 20, thus securing panels 20 and 22 together.
II;
[0081] Figs. 11 B-C illustrate the connection betweeti16 sic ,e dear panel 22 and left back .,I
panel 18. Left side rear panel 22 includes a corner menib or flap 78 (Fig. 1 I
B) which is hingedly secured along an edge portion. Corner member 7~ fi'>ks~ ini 3, a groove 80 which extends I Il along an edge of panel 18- This enables the outer surface: ofe c arner member 78 to be flush with the outer surface of panel 18. This presents an aestheliglall:, pleasing appearance to the outer portion of enclosure 10- Fastening elements 54, such sc[ ;ws, are employed to secure panels 22 and 18 together, similar to the inaniier in; which: they bthi :r panels are secured to each other. Figs- 12A and B illustrate the manner in which fad' en4g e lements 54 secure panels 22 and 18 together.
[00821 Figs. 13A-C illustrate a roof assembly for the ' iti: ity enclosure 10.
The roof assembly includes a front roof panel 82 and a rear roof panel 8 . 1 he roof panels 82 and 84 are IC
curved along their lateral dimension. This construction o~iIides a curved surface on top of enclosure 10 which enables rain, snow and otlter elements of Oe x reather to readily roll off the roof This prevents accumulation of water, etc., on the roof'w4h (an lead to water leaking into the enclosure 10. Each of the side panels, 12, 14, 20 and 2Ig ha, -e at least one projection 86 positioned along an upper edge of the panel. In a prefet ed embodiment, there are two McHale & 51avin1, P.A.
Airy. Docks[ No. - 1251.774 projections 86 on each panel. Each of the roof panels 82 and 84 ar ati least one and preferably two recesses or channels 88 positioned on an inside edge at ~aClt eni , of the panels, as illustrated in Figs. 13A and B. Each of the roof panels is separately piace4 or, the enclosure 10. The roof ~
panels are placed atop the side panels, offset to the front or tear if tl e enclosure. The panels are then slid or moved toward the center of the enclosure 10- T$le -~oj( etions 86 on the side panels are then slid in and engage the recesses 88. This I1lhen locks 1he roof panels in place on the enclosure without the use of separate fasteners. Each of the root-Pe eels 82 and 84 are provided with a channel 90 and 92, respectively, along a longitudinal ed t1. -.reof.
The channels 90 an d 92 are formed as compliments to each other so that when the khan gels 90 and 92 are egagcd they form an interlocking seal between roof panels $2 and 84 (l?g. 4B)- This interlocking seal holds the panels together and prevents the intrusion of water or d er fluids into the enclosure.
(00831 The front of the enclosure 10 includes a doorass'enbl y which comprises two door panels. A left door panel 94 (Fig. 15A) and a right door p4.el ! '6 (Fig.
17A)_ The door panels are hingedly secure to the side panels, as illustrated in Fi,gsi. 15,17. Left door panel 94 is hingedly secured to left front panel 20 with three hinges 98f 1(j6; ar d 102, as illustrated in Figs.
1 SB, 15C and 15X7 respectively. Hinges 98, 100, a d 102' are, lid into apertures on panel 20.
These apertures retain the hinge members and llrever!t their dill, gs Bement from the side panel-The apertures also permit the hinge members to pivot which, p 'ts the doors to open and close.
Door panel 94 is also provided with a handle 104 the assist; the ope 1,ing and closing of the door panel. Handle 104 is secured to the door panel with fastener 1 I=
(00841 Right door panel 96 is hinged) y secured to eft 'on panel 12 with three hinges .I
108, 110, and 112, as illustrated in Figs. 17B, 17C and 1.7D ies 'ct vely.
Hinges 108, 110, and 112 are slid into apertures on panel 12. These apertures retain he hinge members and prevent M,Hakk. 5lavia, P.A.
Arty. Dookct No. - 1251.774 Iy I
i'3 I
I 1i ~f , their disengagement from the side panel. The apertures also P,qTni t the hinge members to pivot which permits the doors to open and close_ Poor panel 4 is'dlsc provided with a handle (not .1 shown) to assist the opening and closing of the door pane, e : Candle is se.
red to the door panel with fasteners similar to 106.
[0085] Figs. 18A and 18B illustrate a roof tirace 114 0 cut ad to left side panel 20 with fasteners- The roof brace provides additibnal support ox t* r )of panels..
This additional support is useful to prevent collapse of the roof under heavy sribW I ,ads, etc. Figs. I9A and 19B
illustrate the roof brace 114 secured to right side p llel 12 ikrith' least :ners. Fig. 20B illustrates the fasteners 116 used to secure the roof brace 114 Ito the side e1 , re eredced, shflsbv ip pm etric and exploded views of a [0086] Figures 21-52, which are now, system or kit for the assembly of a second embQdirnent' of 'e )resent invention. A utility enclosure or shed is generally illustrated at 200. The enclow-er ; hed 200 includes a right side panel 202, a left side panel 204, a back panel 206 (Fig. 2~A) cor Ter panels 208 (Fig. 22A), a roof panel 210, a floor panel 212 and front doors 214 a421' i he right side panel, left side I. ;C I
panel, comer panels, back panels and doors a. a formed t4 .in1' fbm wood.
These panels are secured to each other in a manner which wily be desc 'bed aafli r.
[0087] A comer panel 208 includes a plurality ofd woOdei. boards or siding 218 (Fig-22B). 22B). Each board or siding 21 is provided with a "ton~ve aide' 220 along one longitudinal edge and a "groove side" 222 along an opposite Iongitudiiaa~ ed (I ig. 22B).
The tongue side of each board fits into the groove side of an adjacent board, a1s ill stn ted in Fig. 22B, tp provide a water tight joint between the boards. This type of connection also provides a'secur structural ' I II; ill '' connection between adjacent boards. A plurality of brace$'224', ai a secured to an 'Hines side of the comer panels. These braces 224 hold the boards pr sidin, 218 together and provide McHale & Stavin, PA, Atry. Docker No. -1251.774 it I
structural support for the boards 218. While three braces 2~4 gle it,ustrated, any number can be employed on each of the comer panels.
[0088] Support braces 226 are illustrated in Figs. 2,.'! ;aihd 11, the support braces 226 are secured to the top and bottom portions of the, side panel 204. Ea~h ( f the boards or siding 218 on II. , the side panel 204 are secured to the support braces. The' er? s o : the support braces 226 are provided with apertures 228 (Fig. 22B). Fastening device's, such s screws, are set in to these apertures to secure the braces 226, of the side pant to the 1<7oands 218 of the corner panel (Figs.
228, 23A and B). i~
[0089] Additional support braces 227 are prpded on a si le panel between the top and bottom support braces (Fig. 24). These additional support brac6, p- ovide structural strength a6 d rigidity to the side panel. The additional support braces ai-e se +r1 d to the corner panel 208 in the same manner that the top and bottom support braces we$ sear( i to the corner panel.
(00901 A face frame member 228 is secured to a 'corm 1 anel (Figs. 126A and B). A
longitudinal edge of the face frame 228 is provided with a "gro Ye" 230 along the length thereof.
The groove 230 is constructed and arranged to mate with the E Joni ue" 220 along the edge of a is board 218 of the corner panel 208. Fasteners, such as screws, p ss through apertures 232 on the face frame. These fasteners are used to secure the face frame,1 28 :o the corner panel 208 (Fig.
27A and B). Portions of the face frame are cut away at 234 to g1o' r the face frame to fit around the braces 224 on the corner panel 208. A similar face frame I' m1 rer 229 (Fig. 45A) is secured to an opposite comer panel on the other side of the enclosu [0091] A top connector member 236 is secured along; e op edge of a side panel and corner panel, as illustrated in Figs. 28, 29A and 29B. The top c. n ctor member 236, includes a plurality of apertures 238. Fasteners, such as screws, are passed through these apertures and Mclialc & Stavin, P_A_ Arty. Docket No. - 1251.774 j> illy secure the top connector member 236 to the side and coi4r panels (Fig. 29A).
The top connector member 236 is made of a plastic or resin material.
[00921 A bottom connector member 240 is secured' alot~ tk - bottom edge of a side panel and corner panels, as illustrated in Figs. 30 and 31. The bcqoi co mector member 240 includes a plurality of apertures 242. Fasteners, such as screws, are pjssec through these apertures and secure the bottom connector member 240 to the side and,cornpr x anels (Fig.
31). The bottom connector includes a plurality of tabs 241 _ The bottom connector 1 anel 240 is made of a plastic or resin material.
[0093] The back panel 206 of the enclosure includes a; lei : back panel 244 and a right back panel 246 (Fig. 33A). This is mainly for manufacturing an, l shipping purposes. A filler board 248 is designed to be inserted between the left and right back panels, and provide a support to secure the left and right back panels together_ A "groove" is!prc vided along one longitudinal edge of filler board 248 and a "tongue" is provided along an pp( site longitudinal edge of the filler board. These tongue and groove connections mate ,with,' co nparable tongue and groove connections on boards 218 of the left and right back panels, ?331 t).
[00941 Figures 34, the left and right back panels e provi led with support braces 226 along a top and bottom edge thereof These support brace ,h41il th, boards 218 together during HI N
shipping, prior to assembly and afterwards. Additional suppoirt I races 250 extend across the widths of the left and right back panels- These additional braes 250, together with the filler board 248, securely hold the left and right back panels to eaJi er and thus form the back panel 206. The support braces 250 are provided with apertures!252_" F Isteners, such as screws, are passed through these apertures and secure the support bAces! 5( to the back panels hand the comer panels.
McHale & 5lavin, PA, Atty. Docket No. - 1251,774 li [0095] Bottom connectors 254 are secured along the ho or It edge of the back panel 206.
As illustrated in Fig. 36, there are two bottom connectors] seec to the bottom edge of panel 206. While two bottom connectors are illustrated, any 4b!of ;onnectors can be employed.
-The bottom connectors 254 are made of a plas'itic or resin iria i.a1 The bottom connectors 254 are provided with tabs 256 (Fig. 38B). These tabs are similS t stab -, 36 on the back panels of the first embodiment of the present invention. Thbs 256 fit into; dr s ots, not shown, on the floor panel 212 (Fig_ 38A). The back panel 206 is tilted downwardly and the tabs 256 are inserted into the slots on the floor panel. Next the back (panel is~ tilted, o i1 up ight position (Fig. 39). The II
back panel is then slid to the right, as indicl4ted by, the arrow,, Th s locks the tabs 256 into the slots and prevents the back panel from separating from the;flo~, ps ael. The floor panel is made from a plastic or resin material. This permits the cnelosur ' to re ; at on the ground without the danger of the wood boards rotting. Also, the float paneli presen' s the intrusion of:water and other fluids into the enclosure.
[0096] Figs. 40 and 41 illustrate the manner Jin which t.1e 1i ft side panel 204 and corner panels 208 are secured to the floor panel 212. The side an~ Coll,er : ianels are tilted downwardly.
I , Next, tabs 241 on the bottom connector of the side panels'~re nisei ted into slots, not shown, on the floor panel 212_ Finally, the side and comer panel assOmbly is tilted upwardly into its final upright position (Fig. 42).
[00971 Top connectors 258 are installed on the top e fe if the back panel',206. Top connectors 258 are secured to the support braces 226 witb,fas nc rs, such as screws. I!The top connectors 236 and 258 serve as means to attadh and secure t1~e:roc f to the enclosure, as will be i .
described hereinafter. The junction between :top members 6 4 td 58 is illustrated in, Figs. 44A
and B.
McHile & Slavin, P.A.
Atty. Docket No. - 1251.774 [0098] Figure 45A and B, a header member 260is " ed to the left and right face frame members 228 and 229. Apertures 262 are provided on the h -,ader which permit fasteners, such as screws, to secure the header to the face fraii'e membetj, I t a preferred embodiment the ~I
header 260 is made from metal. Other materials, can also be. '.d fc r the header.
[0099] Figure 46-47, roof panel 210 is secured to the top t 7.nneetors 236 and 258_ The I!li roof panel is placed on top of the connectors and then slid war~iil ti' e front of the enclosure. The left and right top connectors 236 are provided: with tabs 2~4. jhe ;e tabs slide into "1 "shaped grooves 266 which are formed in the bottom edges of the ro s pa tel 210. This now locks the roof panel onto the enclosure. Roof panel 210 also include tar 268 which engage the top connectors 258 on the back panel. Tabs 268 help to lock the of panel in place and prevent it from sliding off once it has been 7nslllec on the enclosure.
[01001 Figs. 49A and B illustrate the left door 214 acid )7 gE s 270 whichare employed to secure the door to the face frame 228. Fasteners, such as,scres, re used to secure the hinges 270 to the door and the face frame. Figs- 50A and B: also ilustttite he manner in which the door 214 is secured to the face frame. In a preferred embodiment, je e `ages of the door 214 and the face frame 228 are mortised to permit the hinges to be mound f ush with the surfaces of the door and face frame, as illustrated in Figs. 50A and B.
[01011 Fig. 51 illustrates the manner in which a door 1iWndl 272 and face plate 274 are secured to door 214. A fastener 276 is employd to secureith6 iann !le 272 and face plate 274 to the door. A similar handle 278 and face plate X80 are sec redi Itb tI e right hand door 216 in the same manner (Fig. 54). A slide bolt 282 is secured to the top; bf 1 he,left door 214 (Fig. 52B)_ The slide bolt moves up and down to engage,and disengage 'j~n n~ert re in header 260-isWhen the slide bolt engages header 260 it locks the door 214 in a cldsed!~~osi Lion- To open the door, one McHale & Stavin, P.A.
Auy. Docket No. - 1251.774 ii simply lowers the slide bolt 282 until it disengages the ; heat er_ The door 214 can now be opened-[01021 Fig. 53 illustrates a hasp 284 which is insta~le4 In t ae Ooors 214 and 216 to lock the door in a closed position. The hasp includes a left portioix286 and a right portion 288. The right portion 288 includes a pivotable locking member, 90; Tie locking member 290 fits through aperture 292 in the left portion 286- The locking men4er -.an'then be pivoted so that it cannot pass through the aperture. This action interlocks the lelft a ad right portions of the hasp together. Since the left and right portions are moil ted on the; left and right doors respectively, this action also locks the doors 214 and 216 of the ericlosur :in c1c sed position. A lock, such as a padlock, can also be placed through the aperti.ire 254 of tie loo dr g member 290. This enables ~
the enclosure to be securely locked and prevents un~uthoriz d in~tru, ion.
[0103] All patents and publications mentioned in this spec; hcation are indicative of the levels of those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains.,; Al patents and publications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as: if c .ch individual publication was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by, referen ;e_ [01041 It is to be understood that while- a certain form o th 1 invention is illustrated, it is not to be limited to the specific form or arrangement herein ~esc ibed and shown ,I It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be'r'par e without departing from the scope of the invention and the invention is not to be conider~d I mited to what is shown and described in the specification and any drawings/figures inclitdecl Lin' [01051 One skilled in the art will readily appreciaate t i -le!present invention, is well adapted to carry out the objectives and obtain the, ends alhda'vaxtates mentioned;i,as well as those inherent therein. The embodiments, methods, procedures piic techniques described herein McHalc & slavin, P.m.
Auy. Docket No. - 1251.774 are presently representative of the preferred embodiments,' ar6.mte riled to be exemplary and are not intended as limitations on the scope. Changes therein anKl o her uses will occur to those skilled in the art which are encompassed within the spirit dt, tble;inn ention and are defined by the scope of the appended claims- Although the 1i>vention has ben ieqcribed in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that tlie in, -ention as claimed should not .I 7 ail be unduly limited to such specific. embodiments. Indeed, saris s n codifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious to thos' sk Ilea, in the art are intended to .
be within the scope of the following claims-IIII I , it it McHale & Stavin. P.A.
Any. Docket No. -1351.774 i~~ ,
Any, fDockel No. - 1251.774 [0010] Accordingly, it is an objective df the, instant inventi' 'Ti to provide a system or kit for assembly of a utility enclosure which utilizes precut wool 14nd plastic components to create structures of varying dimensions by using common ebmpo ent4 [0911] It is a further objective of the instant invlvnticj tc provide a utility enclosure system or kit which utilizes plastic components to secure14nd connect wood components together.
I= I3 [0012] It is yet another objective of the instant inventi'n t) provide a utili enclosure system or kit which utilizes plastic structural frame and panel members having integrated connectors for creating enclosures of varying sizes.
,d [0013] It is a still further objective of the instant in enta n o provide a utility enclosure system or kit wherein the panel members include integrated con: lectors which accommodate plastic formation of the panel components for increased structural in egrity_ [0014] It is still another objective of the instant inven n t provide a utility enclosure system or kit which utilizes structural corner assemblies for'inc4se l enclosure rigidity.
[0015] It is stall another objective of thei,instant invention t provide a utility enclosure II,II : 11 system or kit which utilizes interlocking bosses and pocket to cu a wall panels to a floor ascadi or roof 13.
]0016] It is still another objective of the instant invenn ,n t) provide a utility enclosure system or kit which utilizes roof and floor components which!
ntc rlock together for structural stability and the prevention of incursion of water into the enl losi e.
[0017] Other objects and advantages of thl inve n ioril luil' become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with any accomp layir g drawings wherein are set forth, by way of illustration and example, certain embodiments:;: of tl.is invention. Any drawings McHHnle & Slavin, PA
Any. Docket No. -1251.774 contained herein constitute a part of this specificatiob and i' lul e e :emplary embodiments of the ,II
present invention and illustrate various objects and features;ther of BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE F1 R -'-S
100181 FIGURE 1 is a front perspiective view of a .first embodiment of the present invention;
[0019] FIGURES 2A-F are views of side and back p 41s :)f a first embodiment of the present invention;
[00201 FIGURES 3A-C are perspectiv j views of thie :Ogor a 3sembly and the interlocking connection of the floor components of a first erg bodiment of th we eut invention;
100211 FIGURES 4A and B are views of the assembly and c nnnection of the rear panel t I
the floor assembly of a first embodiment of the present invejntiof II
i [0022] FIGURES 5A-D are views of the assembly and 4nn :ction of the rightside panel I
to the floor assembly of a first embodiment of the present itive4Iion;
[0023] FIGURES 6A and B are views. of the assembly; an connection of the left sid panels to the floor assembly and rear panel of a'firsi embodmmnr . of he present invention;
[00241 FIGURES 7A-C are views of th$ essembly and nni .ction of the right side panel to the floor assembly and another side panel of a first embodime 't o the present invention;
II ' [0025] FIGURES 8A and B are views of the assembly 1nd connection of the right aid panels to each other of a first embodiment of the present invetltin;
[0026] FIGURES 9A and B are views of the asse6bl'yi,an, I connection of the left side panels to each other of a first embodiment of the present in~enti i;
[0027] FIGURES 1OA-C are views of the assembly artd!~on Lection of the left side panels to each other of a first embodiment of the present invention;
MCHake & Slavin, P.A.
Any. Docket No. - 1251.774 ,, [0028] FIGURES 11A-D are details of the left side pa~eIs of a first embodiment of the present invention;
[0029] FIGURES 12A and B are details of the conneioon between the side panels and rear panels of a first embodiment of the present iinvention;
[0030] FIGURES 13A-C are views of the assembly and'; on sections of the roof assembly to the side panels of a first embodiment of the present invenltiorip [0031] FIGURES 14A and 13 are views of the, a5,em )ly and connection of the components of the roof assembly to each other of a first em d"i . en of the present invention;
[0032] FIGURES 15A-D are views of the assembly Td onnections of the left door pane] to the side panels of a first embodiment of the present'inv tic n;
[0033] FIGURES 16A and B are details of the connecti,60 o: a handle to the left door of a first embodiment of the present invention;
[0034] FIGURES 17A-D are views of'the assembly a d c )nnections of the "right door panel to the side panels of a first embodiment of the presen inv tic n;
[0035] FIGURES 18A and B are details of a roof upprt )f a first embodiment of the present invention;
[0036] FIGURES 19A and B are details; of a roof up rt f a first embodiment of the present invention;
[0037] FIGURES 20A and B are details of a roof sLipp* a Zd the fasteners employed to secure it to the utility enclosure of a first embodiment of tht present invention;
[0038] FIGURE 21 is a front perspective view of ~a se n' embodiment of the present invention;
ti McHalc & Stavin, P.A
Any. Docket No. - 1251.714 [0039] FIGURES 22A and B are perspective view of ci irner panel secured to a side panel; ' [0040] FIGURES 23A and B are perspective views of e'l rner panel secured to a side panel;
[0041) FIGURE 24 is a view of an inside of a side p a twit t additional braces;
-Cl [0042] FIGURE 25 is a perspective view of one of t btce I in Fig_ 24;
[00431 FIGURES 26A and B are perspective views of 'de panel and a face frame;
[0044] FIGURES 27A and Bare detailed views of,' a *ae hment of the face frame to a corner panel;
[0045) FIGURE 28 is a perspective view of a top co dnec or Ind a side panel;
[0046] FIGURES 29A and B are views of a top con>lecto~ se cured to a side panel;
[0047] FIGURE 30 is a perspective view of a bottom cop ec for and a side panel;
[0048] FIGURE 31 is a perspective view of a bottoiti' pai>oel s ecured to a side panel;
[0049] FIGURE 32 is a perspective view of a filler loardbe weer two back panels;
[0050] FIGURES 33A and B are perspedtive viewsof t'e f Her board of Fig_ 32 secured to the two back panels;
[0051) FIGURRE 34 is a perspective view of support bres secured to the back panels;
[0052] FIGURE 35 is a perspective view of a support br,'ce;
[0053] FIGURE 36 is a perspective view of a bottojm 4znm ctor being securdd to one of the back panels;
[0054] FIGURE 37 is a perspective view of the bgttorhj co Ynectors secured to the back panels;
[0055] FIGURES 38A and B are views of the back paneil'}be; ng secured to a floor panel;
McHale & slavin. P.A. ~
Atty. Oockc No. -1251.774 i I~' [0056], FIGURE 39 is a perspective view of the bac page] ;vied to a floor panel;
[0057] FIGURE 40 is a perspective view otf a side and or ter panels being secured to a floor panel;
[0058] FIGURE 41 is a perspective view oF1 a sidei ands or ter panels being secured to a floor panel;
[0059] FIGURE 42 is a perspective view of a side," coder, and back panels secured to a floor panel;
[0060] FIGURE 43 is a top perspective rriety of the side, cc mer and back panels secured to the floor panel;
10061] FIGURES 44A and B are top perspective viewsi of t to top connectors of the back and side panels;
[0062] FIGURES 45A and 8 arc top ; perspective vieb>'s c f the header being installed between the side panels;
ICI :
[0063] FIGURE 46 is a perspective view of the rooi.pan l;
[0064] FIGURE 47 is a cross sectionajl view of the r t f ecurement taken along lines I.
A-A in Fig. 21;
[0065] FIGURE 48 is a cross sectional view of the oof ,Pei; cement taken along ]hies B-B
in Fig. 21; [0066] FIGURES 49A and B are views of hinges on'the,'eft door, [00671 FIGURES 50A and B are views,of hinges onthe Left door;
[0068] FIGURE 51 Is a view of a handle being uastdledj on 17e left door;
[0069] FIGURES 52A and B are views, with the back an, Is removed, of tli~
slide bolt being installed on the left door;
9 i McHale & Slavin, P.A, Atty. Docket Nn. - 1251.774 [00701 FIGURE 53 is a view of a hasp to be install d 4'the doors;
[00711 FIGURE 54 is a view of the hasp and handl oil the doors; and 100721 FIGURE 55 is an exploded view of the second lem )odiment of the enclosure of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION'OF T , IN! Ei 3TION
[00731 While the present invention is susceptible o' en jx d ment in various fhrms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be described! p; esently preferred, albeit not limiting, embodiment with the understanding iihat the pre Onto 1sc osure is to be considered an exemplification of the present invention and is not i itended t6:1 mi the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated.
[0074] Figures 1-20B, which are now referenced, s~ ov sot ietric and exploded views of a system or kit for the assembly of a first embodiment, of 4te )resent invention. A utility enclosure or shed is generally illustrated at 10, , The eneldsut !'or ;lied 10 includes a right side wall assembly including right side front panel 12 and a'gl sid : rear panel 14, a back wall assembly including a back right panel 16 and a back left pinelj 3 8, md a left said wall assembly including a left side front panel 20 and a left side rear part I (F gs. 2A-F).
These panels are secured to one another in a m nner which will be desctibe lie reinaftcr.
Panels 12-22 are is secured to a floor assembly 24, Fig. 3A.
[00751 The floor assembly includes at least two flogs p eI: 26 and 28 whiehiare secured to each other to form the floor of the enclosure. As can b6;se it Figs. 3A-q, the floor panels 26 and 28 are secured to each other along a .longitudinai'ede c ' each panel.
Thc; panel 26 includes an upwardly facing groove 29, Fig- 3B, whic ex~ond; along a longi inal edge thereof Adjacent the groove 29 is a lip or upturned ridge 30.`he lip or ridge 30 extends along McHale & Slavin, P.A.
Atty. Docket No. -1251.774 I
the length of groove 29 and is adjacent thereto. Floor panel it eludes a downwardly facing Ili groove 32, Fig. 3B, which extends along a longitudinal edge,th eof Adjacent groove 32 is a lip or ridge 34 which extends along the length of the groove 32.' Lip 32 is constructed sized to mate with groove 29_ Lip 30 is constructed and sized to mate witl~Igrot ve 32. The structural inter-fitting of the lips into the grooves provides structural integrity d : upport for the connection of j1 1l the floor panels 26 and 28 to each other. Tlaisl structural; rel ion ship also provides a seal or boundary which prevents the intrusion of water or other fluidsi ron passing from the bottom of I ill the panels to the top of the panels. This structure therefore peu s water or other fluids from ~ry entering into the enclosure or shed from below- In addition,': fa, teners, such as screws, are utilized to connect the floor panels 26 and 28 together-[0076] Figs. 4A and B illustrate the manner in whiec," a zill ar i panel 16 is secured to a floor panel 26_ The rear panel 16 includes a plurality of tabs 36 orin, d o or secured along a bottom portion or edge. The tabs 36 are foamed as a curved lhei ber which includes a bend of substantially 90 degrees, as seen in Fig- 4B. A peripheral portion of both floor panels 26 and 28, include apertures or slots 38, Figs. 4A and B. The tabs 36'fit into, he apertures and engage the peripheral portion of the floor panel 26 to secure the rear panel~l 6 t nto the floor pane126. This engagement is accomplished by tilting the top of the rear p el i~l~fi d 7wnwardly prior to inserting I
the tabs 36 into the slots 38. Next, panel 16 is returned tQ; its upx ght, vertical position. This moves the outer edge 37 of tabs 36 below the peripheral portion of the floor panel and prevents the rear panel 16 from moving upwardly and thus becorrtin ict iihe i from the floor panel. Rear panel 16 also includes apertures 40 and 42 which rvilll be deScri d h ;reinafter [0077] A right side rear panel 14 is illustrated in Figs- A- 7. 11 is secured to the floor assembly 24 utilizing the same construction and elements that rearp mel 16 utilizes toibe secured McHale & Slavin, P.A, Any. Docker No, = 1251.774 If to the floor assembly 24. Tabs 44 on the bottom portion or Iowel ec ge of right side rear panel 14 fit into apertures or slots 46 on the peripheral portion of the,I qo69II,paj gel 26 to secure the right side rear panel 14 onto the floor panel 26. This engagern nt is acco pl: shed by tilting the top of the lip right side rear panel 14 downwardly prior to inserting the tabs) 14 i Ito the slots 46. Next, panel t 16 is returned to its upright, vertical position. Thi 'moves the Out, :r edge of tabs 44 below the peripheral portion of the floor panel and prevents ,the right de rear panel 14 from moving upwardly and thus becoming detached from the floor peel; R ght ! side rear panel 14 also includes a corner member or flap 48 (Fig. 5B)II which is h; ` gediy , ecured to panel 14 along an edge portion. Cotner member 48 engages and is secured along l e Age 50 of rear panel 16 (Fig, 5C). Corner member 48 fits into a groove 52 which extends' al14g tie edge 50.
This enables the outer surface of the comer member 48 to be flash with the out si rfaee of rear panel 16. This presents an aesthetically pleasing appearance to the outer postuli of the enclosure 10. Fastening elements 54, such as screws, are employed to secure corner Amt or 48 to rear panel 16- The I
fastening elements 54 pass through the apertures 40 in panel 1 an I engage comer member 48, thus securing panels 16 and 14 to each other,, as iillustratdd i l'Fit _ 6A A
tool 56, such as a screwdriver, is employed to connect fastening elements 54 tl' pa~iel ' 4.
]0078] A right side front panel 12 and right side rear p el 14 are illustrated in Figs. 7A
~~ III
and 8A. The right side front panel 12 includes a plurality, of! f bs 58 on the bottom portion or I Ij lower edge of right side front panel 12 which fit into ap tt4s r slots 60 on the; peripheral portion of the floor panel 28 to secure the right side front pnrnell 2, Pnto the floor panel 28. This engagement is accomplished in a manner similar to the set u i ' a panel 14 to floor panel 26.
The right side front panel 12 includes a groove 62 which te s long the length of the panel.
The right side rear panel 14 includes a groove 64 which extends a long the length of the panel.
M01I & Stavin. P,A. I
My. Pocket No, - 1251.774 Grooves 62 and 64 are constructed and arranged to mate With,4acl other so as to enable panels I.
12 and 14 to be joined together. The grooves 62 and 64 fort ,r F -ovide a connection between panels 12 and 14 which does not distract froth the inner or a ter surfaces of the panels. The grooves also present an aesthetically pleasing appearance ofl si ogle said wall of the utility enclosure- Fasteners 54 are utilized to secure panels 12 and 14; ge her, as illustrated in Figs. 8A
and B. Fasteners 54 pass through apertures 40 in' panel 12 a d a -e screwed in panel 14, thus securing panels 12 and 14 together.
[0079] Figs. 9A and B illustrate the right arld left barckIIan( Is 1,6 and 18 secured to floor panel 26. The back panel 18 is secured to the floor panel iiizLng 1 tbs 36 on the back panel and I
apertures 38 on the floor panel 26; similar to Khe manner to liicl back panel 16 is secured to floor panel 26. Back panels 16 and 18 also include groov ;s air t 68 respectively;;along their length. Grooves 66 and 68 are constructed and arranged t'p mii to with each other in a manner similar to grooves 62 and 64. Fasteners 54 pass through a ern fires 40 in panel 16 and are ~a ill screwed into panel 18 so as to secure panels 16 and: 19 togee~! Th s connection is similar to the connection which joins panels 12 and 14 together.
i I! pai eels 20 and 22 to each other, 10080] Figs- I OA-C describe the connection of left: sid' and their installation onto floor panels 26 and 28. Left side f c t p; nel 20 includes a plurality of ' II; ti tabs 70 formed to or secured along a bottom portion or edge. , he abs 70 are similar to tabs 36 on panel 16. Tabs 70 fit into apertures 72 on floor panel ~8. 1~anu 1 20 is secured to,;floor panel 26 in a manner similar to that of panel 16 being secured to flr)a11 ar 5126.
Left side rear panel 22 also includes tabs (not shown) along a bottom portion thdreo T ese tabs fit into apertures in floor panel 28 and thus secure panel 22 to floor panel 28 in a' rr~nn r similar to that employed to secure panel 20 to floor panel 26. Left side panels 20 and; 2 ncludc channels 74 and 76, McH ile 4, 513vin, P.A.
nRy, p4xt<cE No. -1zs1.77a ' III
respectively, which extend along their length. Channels 74 ana!76 are constructed and arranged to mate with each other so as to enable panels -~0 and 22 t¾Xbe;oir, -d'together. The grooves 74 and 76 further provide a connection between panels 20 and ' 22] tvhi -,h does not distract from the inner or outer surfaces of the panels. The ~ grooves also irese at an aesthetically pleasing appearance of a single said wall of the utility enclosure- F ten vs 54 are utilized to secure panels 20 and 22 together. Fasteners 54 pass through aperture; 0 i 1 panel 22 and are screwed in panel 20, thus securing panels 20 and 22 together.
II;
[0081] Figs. 11 B-C illustrate the connection betweeti16 sic ,e dear panel 22 and left back .,I
panel 18. Left side rear panel 22 includes a corner menib or flap 78 (Fig. 1 I
B) which is hingedly secured along an edge portion. Corner member 7~ fi'>ks~ ini 3, a groove 80 which extends I Il along an edge of panel 18- This enables the outer surface: ofe c arner member 78 to be flush with the outer surface of panel 18. This presents an aestheliglall:, pleasing appearance to the outer portion of enclosure 10- Fastening elements 54, such sc[ ;ws, are employed to secure panels 22 and 18 together, similar to the inaniier in; which: they bthi :r panels are secured to each other. Figs- 12A and B illustrate the manner in which fad' en4g e lements 54 secure panels 22 and 18 together.
[00821 Figs. 13A-C illustrate a roof assembly for the ' iti: ity enclosure 10.
The roof assembly includes a front roof panel 82 and a rear roof panel 8 . 1 he roof panels 82 and 84 are IC
curved along their lateral dimension. This construction o~iIides a curved surface on top of enclosure 10 which enables rain, snow and otlter elements of Oe x reather to readily roll off the roof This prevents accumulation of water, etc., on the roof'w4h (an lead to water leaking into the enclosure 10. Each of the side panels, 12, 14, 20 and 2Ig ha, -e at least one projection 86 positioned along an upper edge of the panel. In a prefet ed embodiment, there are two McHale & 51avin1, P.A.
Airy. Docks[ No. - 1251.774 projections 86 on each panel. Each of the roof panels 82 and 84 ar ati least one and preferably two recesses or channels 88 positioned on an inside edge at ~aClt eni , of the panels, as illustrated in Figs. 13A and B. Each of the roof panels is separately piace4 or, the enclosure 10. The roof ~
panels are placed atop the side panels, offset to the front or tear if tl e enclosure. The panels are then slid or moved toward the center of the enclosure 10- T$le -~oj( etions 86 on the side panels are then slid in and engage the recesses 88. This I1lhen locks 1he roof panels in place on the enclosure without the use of separate fasteners. Each of the root-Pe eels 82 and 84 are provided with a channel 90 and 92, respectively, along a longitudinal ed t1. -.reof.
The channels 90 an d 92 are formed as compliments to each other so that when the khan gels 90 and 92 are egagcd they form an interlocking seal between roof panels $2 and 84 (l?g. 4B)- This interlocking seal holds the panels together and prevents the intrusion of water or d er fluids into the enclosure.
(00831 The front of the enclosure 10 includes a doorass'enbl y which comprises two door panels. A left door panel 94 (Fig. 15A) and a right door p4.el ! '6 (Fig.
17A)_ The door panels are hingedly secure to the side panels, as illustrated in Fi,gsi. 15,17. Left door panel 94 is hingedly secured to left front panel 20 with three hinges 98f 1(j6; ar d 102, as illustrated in Figs.
1 SB, 15C and 15X7 respectively. Hinges 98, 100, a d 102' are, lid into apertures on panel 20.
These apertures retain the hinge members and llrever!t their dill, gs Bement from the side panel-The apertures also permit the hinge members to pivot which, p 'ts the doors to open and close.
Door panel 94 is also provided with a handle 104 the assist; the ope 1,ing and closing of the door panel. Handle 104 is secured to the door panel with fastener 1 I=
(00841 Right door panel 96 is hinged) y secured to eft 'on panel 12 with three hinges .I
108, 110, and 112, as illustrated in Figs. 17B, 17C and 1.7D ies 'ct vely.
Hinges 108, 110, and 112 are slid into apertures on panel 12. These apertures retain he hinge members and prevent M,Hakk. 5lavia, P.A.
Arty. Dookct No. - 1251.774 Iy I
i'3 I
I 1i ~f , their disengagement from the side panel. The apertures also P,qTni t the hinge members to pivot which permits the doors to open and close_ Poor panel 4 is'dlsc provided with a handle (not .1 shown) to assist the opening and closing of the door pane, e : Candle is se.
red to the door panel with fasteners similar to 106.
[0085] Figs. 18A and 18B illustrate a roof tirace 114 0 cut ad to left side panel 20 with fasteners- The roof brace provides additibnal support ox t* r )of panels..
This additional support is useful to prevent collapse of the roof under heavy sribW I ,ads, etc. Figs. I9A and 19B
illustrate the roof brace 114 secured to right side p llel 12 ikrith' least :ners. Fig. 20B illustrates the fasteners 116 used to secure the roof brace 114 Ito the side e1 , re eredced, shflsbv ip pm etric and exploded views of a [0086] Figures 21-52, which are now, system or kit for the assembly of a second embQdirnent' of 'e )resent invention. A utility enclosure or shed is generally illustrated at 200. The enclow-er ; hed 200 includes a right side panel 202, a left side panel 204, a back panel 206 (Fig. 2~A) cor Ter panels 208 (Fig. 22A), a roof panel 210, a floor panel 212 and front doors 214 a421' i he right side panel, left side I. ;C I
panel, comer panels, back panels and doors a. a formed t4 .in1' fbm wood.
These panels are secured to each other in a manner which wily be desc 'bed aafli r.
[0087] A comer panel 208 includes a plurality ofd woOdei. boards or siding 218 (Fig-22B). 22B). Each board or siding 21 is provided with a "ton~ve aide' 220 along one longitudinal edge and a "groove side" 222 along an opposite Iongitudiiaa~ ed (I ig. 22B).
The tongue side of each board fits into the groove side of an adjacent board, a1s ill stn ted in Fig. 22B, tp provide a water tight joint between the boards. This type of connection also provides a'secur structural ' I II; ill '' connection between adjacent boards. A plurality of brace$'224', ai a secured to an 'Hines side of the comer panels. These braces 224 hold the boards pr sidin, 218 together and provide McHale & Stavin, PA, Atry. Docker No. -1251.774 it I
structural support for the boards 218. While three braces 2~4 gle it,ustrated, any number can be employed on each of the comer panels.
[0088] Support braces 226 are illustrated in Figs. 2,.'! ;aihd 11, the support braces 226 are secured to the top and bottom portions of the, side panel 204. Ea~h ( f the boards or siding 218 on II. , the side panel 204 are secured to the support braces. The' er? s o : the support braces 226 are provided with apertures 228 (Fig. 22B). Fastening device's, such s screws, are set in to these apertures to secure the braces 226, of the side pant to the 1<7oands 218 of the corner panel (Figs.
228, 23A and B). i~
[0089] Additional support braces 227 are prpded on a si le panel between the top and bottom support braces (Fig. 24). These additional support brac6, p- ovide structural strength a6 d rigidity to the side panel. The additional support braces ai-e se +r1 d to the corner panel 208 in the same manner that the top and bottom support braces we$ sear( i to the corner panel.
(00901 A face frame member 228 is secured to a 'corm 1 anel (Figs. 126A and B). A
longitudinal edge of the face frame 228 is provided with a "gro Ye" 230 along the length thereof.
The groove 230 is constructed and arranged to mate with the E Joni ue" 220 along the edge of a is board 218 of the corner panel 208. Fasteners, such as screws, p ss through apertures 232 on the face frame. These fasteners are used to secure the face frame,1 28 :o the corner panel 208 (Fig.
27A and B). Portions of the face frame are cut away at 234 to g1o' r the face frame to fit around the braces 224 on the corner panel 208. A similar face frame I' m1 rer 229 (Fig. 45A) is secured to an opposite comer panel on the other side of the enclosu [0091] A top connector member 236 is secured along; e op edge of a side panel and corner panel, as illustrated in Figs. 28, 29A and 29B. The top c. n ctor member 236, includes a plurality of apertures 238. Fasteners, such as screws, are passed through these apertures and Mclialc & Stavin, P_A_ Arty. Docket No. - 1251.774 j> illy secure the top connector member 236 to the side and coi4r panels (Fig. 29A).
The top connector member 236 is made of a plastic or resin material.
[00921 A bottom connector member 240 is secured' alot~ tk - bottom edge of a side panel and corner panels, as illustrated in Figs. 30 and 31. The bcqoi co mector member 240 includes a plurality of apertures 242. Fasteners, such as screws, are pjssec through these apertures and secure the bottom connector member 240 to the side and,cornpr x anels (Fig.
31). The bottom connector includes a plurality of tabs 241 _ The bottom connector 1 anel 240 is made of a plastic or resin material.
[0093] The back panel 206 of the enclosure includes a; lei : back panel 244 and a right back panel 246 (Fig. 33A). This is mainly for manufacturing an, l shipping purposes. A filler board 248 is designed to be inserted between the left and right back panels, and provide a support to secure the left and right back panels together_ A "groove" is!prc vided along one longitudinal edge of filler board 248 and a "tongue" is provided along an pp( site longitudinal edge of the filler board. These tongue and groove connections mate ,with,' co nparable tongue and groove connections on boards 218 of the left and right back panels, ?331 t).
[00941 Figures 34, the left and right back panels e provi led with support braces 226 along a top and bottom edge thereof These support brace ,h41il th, boards 218 together during HI N
shipping, prior to assembly and afterwards. Additional suppoirt I races 250 extend across the widths of the left and right back panels- These additional braes 250, together with the filler board 248, securely hold the left and right back panels to eaJi er and thus form the back panel 206. The support braces 250 are provided with apertures!252_" F Isteners, such as screws, are passed through these apertures and secure the support bAces! 5( to the back panels hand the comer panels.
McHale & 5lavin, PA, Atty. Docket No. - 1251,774 li [0095] Bottom connectors 254 are secured along the ho or It edge of the back panel 206.
As illustrated in Fig. 36, there are two bottom connectors] seec to the bottom edge of panel 206. While two bottom connectors are illustrated, any 4b!of ;onnectors can be employed.
-The bottom connectors 254 are made of a plas'itic or resin iria i.a1 The bottom connectors 254 are provided with tabs 256 (Fig. 38B). These tabs are similS t stab -, 36 on the back panels of the first embodiment of the present invention. Thbs 256 fit into; dr s ots, not shown, on the floor panel 212 (Fig_ 38A). The back panel 206 is tilted downwardly and the tabs 256 are inserted into the slots on the floor panel. Next the back (panel is~ tilted, o i1 up ight position (Fig. 39). The II
back panel is then slid to the right, as indicl4ted by, the arrow,, Th s locks the tabs 256 into the slots and prevents the back panel from separating from the;flo~, ps ael. The floor panel is made from a plastic or resin material. This permits the cnelosur ' to re ; at on the ground without the danger of the wood boards rotting. Also, the float paneli presen' s the intrusion of:water and other fluids into the enclosure.
[0096] Figs. 40 and 41 illustrate the manner Jin which t.1e 1i ft side panel 204 and corner panels 208 are secured to the floor panel 212. The side an~ Coll,er : ianels are tilted downwardly.
I , Next, tabs 241 on the bottom connector of the side panels'~re nisei ted into slots, not shown, on the floor panel 212_ Finally, the side and comer panel assOmbly is tilted upwardly into its final upright position (Fig. 42).
[00971 Top connectors 258 are installed on the top e fe if the back panel',206. Top connectors 258 are secured to the support braces 226 witb,fas nc rs, such as screws. I!The top connectors 236 and 258 serve as means to attadh and secure t1~e:roc f to the enclosure, as will be i .
described hereinafter. The junction between :top members 6 4 td 58 is illustrated in, Figs. 44A
and B.
McHile & Slavin, P.A.
Atty. Docket No. - 1251.774 [0098] Figure 45A and B, a header member 260is " ed to the left and right face frame members 228 and 229. Apertures 262 are provided on the h -,ader which permit fasteners, such as screws, to secure the header to the face fraii'e membetj, I t a preferred embodiment the ~I
header 260 is made from metal. Other materials, can also be. '.d fc r the header.
[0099] Figure 46-47, roof panel 210 is secured to the top t 7.nneetors 236 and 258_ The I!li roof panel is placed on top of the connectors and then slid war~iil ti' e front of the enclosure. The left and right top connectors 236 are provided: with tabs 2~4. jhe ;e tabs slide into "1 "shaped grooves 266 which are formed in the bottom edges of the ro s pa tel 210. This now locks the roof panel onto the enclosure. Roof panel 210 also include tar 268 which engage the top connectors 258 on the back panel. Tabs 268 help to lock the of panel in place and prevent it from sliding off once it has been 7nslllec on the enclosure.
[01001 Figs. 49A and B illustrate the left door 214 acid )7 gE s 270 whichare employed to secure the door to the face frame 228. Fasteners, such as,scres, re used to secure the hinges 270 to the door and the face frame. Figs- 50A and B: also ilustttite he manner in which the door 214 is secured to the face frame. In a preferred embodiment, je e `ages of the door 214 and the face frame 228 are mortised to permit the hinges to be mound f ush with the surfaces of the door and face frame, as illustrated in Figs. 50A and B.
[01011 Fig. 51 illustrates the manner in which a door 1iWndl 272 and face plate 274 are secured to door 214. A fastener 276 is employd to secureith6 iann !le 272 and face plate 274 to the door. A similar handle 278 and face plate X80 are sec redi Itb tI e right hand door 216 in the same manner (Fig. 54). A slide bolt 282 is secured to the top; bf 1 he,left door 214 (Fig. 52B)_ The slide bolt moves up and down to engage,and disengage 'j~n n~ert re in header 260-isWhen the slide bolt engages header 260 it locks the door 214 in a cldsed!~~osi Lion- To open the door, one McHale & Stavin, P.A.
Auy. Docket No. - 1251.774 ii simply lowers the slide bolt 282 until it disengages the ; heat er_ The door 214 can now be opened-[01021 Fig. 53 illustrates a hasp 284 which is insta~le4 In t ae Ooors 214 and 216 to lock the door in a closed position. The hasp includes a left portioix286 and a right portion 288. The right portion 288 includes a pivotable locking member, 90; Tie locking member 290 fits through aperture 292 in the left portion 286- The locking men4er -.an'then be pivoted so that it cannot pass through the aperture. This action interlocks the lelft a ad right portions of the hasp together. Since the left and right portions are moil ted on the; left and right doors respectively, this action also locks the doors 214 and 216 of the ericlosur :in c1c sed position. A lock, such as a padlock, can also be placed through the aperti.ire 254 of tie loo dr g member 290. This enables ~
the enclosure to be securely locked and prevents un~uthoriz d in~tru, ion.
[0103] All patents and publications mentioned in this spec; hcation are indicative of the levels of those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains.,; Al patents and publications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as: if c .ch individual publication was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by, referen ;e_ [01041 It is to be understood that while- a certain form o th 1 invention is illustrated, it is not to be limited to the specific form or arrangement herein ~esc ibed and shown ,I It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be'r'par e without departing from the scope of the invention and the invention is not to be conider~d I mited to what is shown and described in the specification and any drawings/figures inclitdecl Lin' [01051 One skilled in the art will readily appreciaate t i -le!present invention, is well adapted to carry out the objectives and obtain the, ends alhda'vaxtates mentioned;i,as well as those inherent therein. The embodiments, methods, procedures piic techniques described herein McHalc & slavin, P.m.
Auy. Docket No. - 1251.774 are presently representative of the preferred embodiments,' ar6.mte riled to be exemplary and are not intended as limitations on the scope. Changes therein anKl o her uses will occur to those skilled in the art which are encompassed within the spirit dt, tble;inn ention and are defined by the scope of the appended claims- Although the 1i>vention has ben ieqcribed in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that tlie in, -ention as claimed should not .I 7 ail be unduly limited to such specific. embodiments. Indeed, saris s n codifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious to thos' sk Ilea, in the art are intended to .
be within the scope of the following claims-IIII I , it it McHale & Stavin. P.A.
Any. Docket No. -1351.774 i~~ ,
Claims (19)
- Claim 1. A modular utility shed construction system utilizing molded plastic structural panels comprising:
a floor assembly for enclosing a bottom of said utility shed, said floor assembly including a plurality of like-configured floor panel members, one of said, floor panel members including a groove extending along a longitudinal edge of said floor panel, another of said floor panel members including a lip extending along a longitudinal edge of said another floor panel member, said lip of said another floor panel member engaging said groove of said one floor panel member thereby securing said one floor panel member to said another floor panel member, a groove extending around a perimeter of said floor assembly, a plurality of apertures located within said groove extending around said perimeter of said floor assembly;
a pair of side wall assemblies for enclosing left and right side sides of said utility shed, said side wall assembly enclosing said left side of said utility shed including a front side panel and a back side panel, said wall assembly enclosing said right side of said utility shed including a front side panel and a back side panel;
at least two tabs along a lower edge of each of said front and back side wall panels, said tabs being constructed and arranged to fit into said plurality of apertures located on said floor assembly when said front and back side wall panels are tilted away from a vertical position, said tabs locking said front and back side wall panels to said floor assembly and preventing removal of said front and back side panels from said floor assembly when said front and back side panels are moved to a substantially vertical position;
a back wall assembly for enclosing a back portion of said utility shed, said back wall assembly including a left back wall panel and a right back wall panel secured together to form said back wall assembly, at least two tabs along a lower edge of each of said left and right back wall panels, said tabs being constructed and arranged to fit into said plurality of apertures located on said floor assembly when said left and right back wall panels are tilted away from a vertical position, said tabs locking said left and right back wall panels to said floor assembly and preventing removal of said left and right back wall panels from said floor assembly when said left and right side panels are moved to a substantially vertical position;
a roof assembly for enclosing an upper portion of said utility shed, said roof assembly including a plurality of roof panels secured together to form said roof assembly, a plurality of recesses located along a perimeter of each said roof panel;
a plurality of projections located along a top edge of each of said front and back side wall panels, said plurality of projections on said front and back side wall panels engaging said recesses on said roof panels thereby locking said roof assembly onto said front and back side wall panels; and a door assembly enclosing a front of said utility shed and permitting access to said utility shed, said door assembly including at least two door panels. - Claim 2. The modular utility shed construction system of c aim 1 wherein each said left and said right side wall assembly include an upper edge which is higher at its midpoint than at its ends.
- Claim 3. The modular utility shed construction system of claim 2 wherein said roof assembly is curved along a traverse cross section, the midpoint o the traverse cross section is higher than the ends of the cross section.
- Claim 4. The modular utility shed construction system of claim 3 wherein the upper edge of said left and said right wall assemblies are the same shape as the transverse cross section of the roof assembly, whereby said roof assembly completely engage said left and said right side wall assemblies.
- Claim 5. The modular utility shed construction system of claim 1 wherein each of said roof panels includes a channel along a longitudinal edge each of said channels being a complementary shape for the other said channel whereby, when said channels of said roof panels are placed together, they form a seal which prevents the intrusion of water and other elements through the roof assembly and into the utility shed.
- Claim 6. The modular utility shed construction system o claim 1 wherein said door assembly includes a plurality of door panels, each said door panel is secured to a side wall assembly, one of said door panels includes a latching device, said latching device is operable from an interior of said door panel.
- Claim 7. The modular utility shed construction system of claim 1 wherein said door assembly includes a plurality of door panels, each said door panel is secured to a side wall assembly, each of said door panels includes a handle for operatively opening and closing said door panels.
- Claim 8. The modular utility shed construction system of claim 1 including a roof brace, said roof brace extending between said side wall assemblies and contacting an interior surface of said roof assembly.
- Claim 9. The modular utility shed construction system of claim 1 wherein each said side wall back panel includes a flap which is hingedly secured to longitudinal edge of said side wall back panel, each of said left and said right back wall panels include a groove extending along a longitudinal edge which is adjacent to said side wall assemblies, said flap is constructed and arranged to fit into groove to provide a means to secure said side wall back panels to said back wall panels, said flap and said groove are constructed and arranged to not extend outwardly of a plane of the outer surfaces of said side wall back panels and said back wall panels.
- Claim 10. A utility shed construction kit comprising:
a floor assembly for enclosing a bottom of said utility sl ed, a plurality of apertures located around a perimeter of said floor assembly;
a pair of side walls for enclosing left and right sides of said utility shed, said side walls formed of a plurality of vertical members secured together in a common plane;
a pair of corner panels secured to each said left and said ri ght wall assembly, each said corner panel formed of a plurality of vertical members secured together;
a back wall assembly for enclosing a back portion or said utility shed, said back wall assembly including a left wall panel and a right wall panel each said left and right back wall panel formed of a plurality of vertical memberS secured together in common plane;
a filler member secured to and connecting said left and right back wall panels to each other, said filler member is similar to said vertical members in said back wall assembly; and a door assembly enclosing a front of said utility shed and permitting access to said utility shed, said door assembly including at least two door panels. - Claim 11. The utility shed construction kit of claim 10 wherein each said vertical member includes a groove extending along a longitudinal edge and a tongue extending along an opposite vertical edge, said tongue is constructed and arranged to fit into said groove to provide a structural and weather tight seaL between adjacent vertical members
- Claim 12. The utility shed construction kit of claim 0 including a plurality of substantially horizontal support braces extending across each said side panel, each said back panel, and each said corner panel.
- Claim 13. The utility shed construction kit of claim 10 including additional cross braces extending across both said back wall panels and joining said back wall panels together to form said back wall assembly.
- Claim 14. The utility shed construction kit of claim 1) including a top connector extending along a top edge of each said side wall assemblies and sa d corner panels.
- Claim 15. The utility shed construction kit of claim 11 including; a top connector extending along a top edge of each said back wall panels.
- Claim 16. The utility shed construction kit of claim 10 including a bottom connector extending along a bottom edge of each said side wall assemblies and said corner panels.
- Claim 17. The utility shed construction kit of claim 17 including a bottom connector extending along a bottom edge of each said back wall panels.
- Claim 18. The utility shed construction kit of claim 1 wherein each said bottom connector includes a plurality of tabs, said tabs being constructed and arranged to fit into said plurality of apertures in said floor assembly when said side wall a semblies and said back wall assembly are tilted away from a vertical position, said tabs locking said side wall assemblies and said back wall assembly to said floor assembly and preventing removal of said side wall assemblies and said back wall assembly when said side wall as emblies and said back wall assembly are moved to a substantially vertical position.
- Claim 19. The utility shed construction kit of claim 15 wherein each said top connector includes a plurality of tabs, said tabs engaging a plurality of apertures in said roof assembly when said roof assembly is slid onto said utility shed whereby said roof assembly is securely held onto said utility shed.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2720520 CA2720520A1 (en) | 2010-11-09 | 2010-11-09 | Combo wood and plastic modular storage shed |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2720520 CA2720520A1 (en) | 2010-11-09 | 2010-11-09 | Combo wood and plastic modular storage shed |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2720520A1 true CA2720520A1 (en) | 2012-05-09 |
Family
ID=46050160
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2720520 Abandoned CA2720520A1 (en) | 2010-11-09 | 2010-11-09 | Combo wood and plastic modular storage shed |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2720520A1 (en) |
-
2010
- 2010-11-09 CA CA 2720520 patent/CA2720520A1/en not_active Abandoned
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request |
Effective date: 20151109 |
|
| FZDE | Dead |
Effective date: 20180529 |