Abstract: A perimeter foundation wall of a manufactured home having rim joists and a concrete footing located beneath the rim joists. The perimeter foundation wall includes a plurality of precast panels extending around the perimeter of the manufactured home. The panels have a height slightly less than the distance between the bottom of the rim joist and the top of the concrete footing. The ends of adjacent precast panels interlock. The tops of the panels are held in abutment with the bottom of the rim joist by support means located between the bottom of the panels and the concrete footing. The tops of the panels are connected to the rim joist by at least one top connector. The bottoms of the panels are connected to the concrete footing by at least one bottom connector.

Abstract: An adjustable skirting frame includes a first frame rail; a second frame rail disposed in spaced-apart, parallel relationship to the first frame rail; a plurality of spaced-apart, parallel, length-adjustable studs pivotally carried by and extending between the first frame rail and the second frame rail; a plurality of center supports extending between adjacent pairs, respectively, of the plurality of length-adjustable studs; and a plurality of panel mounting spaces formed by and between the first frame rail, the second frame rail, the plurality of length-adjustable studs and the plurality of center supports.

Abstract: A fuel tank support system for providing a lightweight yet strong structure for supporting propane tanks above a ground surface. The tank support generally includes an elongated support pad having a platform, a base plate connected to the support pad, and a plurality of internal supports connected between the support pad and the base plate. A plurality of pairs of upper retainer rings extends from an underside of the platform to define upper receiver slots, and a plurality of pairs of lower retainer rings extends from an upper side of the base plate to define lower receiver slots. An upper end of each of the internal supports is received by the upper receiver slots and a lower end of each of the internal supports is received by the lower receiver slots. Handles, bottom grooves, and internal ribbing are also used with the tank support.

Abstract: A self-adjusting trailer skirting system provides an insulated and aesthetic appearance to an elevated structure and includes a series of modular panels, each of which having a bottom section slideably connected within an upper panel. An interior of each panel can be filled with foam insulation. The outer edge of each panel can include a flange such that each panel can be interlocked to adjacent panels. Each panel system can also include an interior spring to keep the panel sections forced apart and against grade. The upper portion is fastened into place while the spring forces the lower portion of the panel against the nearby grade.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a unique multi-purpose towed trailer unit having an aerodynamic streamlined configuration which results in less drag on the towing vehicle-trailer combination compared with drag resulting from the use of a bluff body trailer and a towing vehicle. At rest, the trailer is used in combination with a collapsible self-supporting deployable shelter which is stored in the interior of the trailer.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for attachment of skirting, preferably vinyl skirting, with a manufactured home. The first legs of each of a plurality of clips, preferably L-shaped clips, may be attached with the bottom surface of the outer rim joist of the home. The plurality of L-shaped clips may be positioned along the length of the outer rim joist. The second legs of each of the plurality of L-shaped clips may be positioned downward. The top back skirting rail may be attached to the outer rim joist with the second legs of each of the plurality of L-shaped clips.

Abstract: A movable hunting blind is provided that includes a chassis with first and second axle assemblies in a tandem configuration where the first axle assembly includes steerable wheels, a coupling member extending between and pivotably connected to the first and second axle assemblies, a tongue member removably connected to and extending forwardly of the first axle assembly where the tongue member is configured for connection to a towing vehicle, a pair of transverse beams connected to proximate ends of the first and second axle assemblies, an enclosure supportably connected to the transverse beams by a plurality of brackets where each of the brackets is configured to permit some flexing movement between the transverse beams and the enclosure during transport, where the dimensions of the beams are sufficient to provide clearance between the bottom of the enclosure and the wheels of the axle assemblies, and where a wall of the enclosure includes a door configured for use in a first position as an entrance ramp and

Abstract: Work crews temporarily operating in remote areas can be subject to dangers such as tornados, hurricanes and explosive blast waves. A re-deployable aboveground protective shelter suitable for use in such environments utilizes retractable stabilizing arms and/or passive valved ductwork to resist uplift, overturning and sliding. Because the protective shelter does not rely upon excessive weight to counter wind forces, the protective shelter can be quickly, easily and inexpensively redeployed to new sites.

Abstract: A skirt guard for a mobile home skirt having a skirt base on the ground and in a channel of which the bottom of the skirt sits. The skirt guard is formed of a flat elongate panel with a top and bottom edge and having a groove near and parallel to its bottom edge. In use the bottom edge of the skirt guard is bent upward along the groove to form a hook. To install the skirt guard the hook is inserted into the skirt base channel alongside the bottom of the skirt and the hook fastens the skirt guard in the channel.

Abstract: A vented panel connector for a decorative panel system includes a front plate, a pair of spaced-apart vent plates carried by the front plate, a pair of spaced-apart panel flanges extending from each of the pair of spaced-apart vent plates and a plurality of vent openings extending through each of the pair of vent plates between the front plate and the pair of spaced-apart panel flanges.

Abstract: The invention relates to a mobile structure which is intended for various different uses and purposes and which is of the type that comprises a flat floor chassis with wheels, towing means such that it can be towed by a vehicle and floor support means. The invention is characterized in that the structure comprises: an upper structural shell consisting of two outer frames and at least one intermediate frame, which are connected at the top by lateral and central longitudinal joists, and crossbars forming a plurality of upper cavities which are covered either by laminar sections or skylight elements; and a plurality of independent panels forming the walls of the structure, which are disposed around the structural shell and which can take the form of solid panels or panels comprising a window, a door or an air-conditioning system.

Abstract: A prefabricated foundation is provided using a plurality of concrete panels that are cast at a factory location to a predetermined uniform form and size. These panels are of a generally rectangular shape and are positioned end to end forming a wall-like structure around the entire perimeter of a prefabricated structure. The lower surface of the panels are then supported by a plurality of precast posts that correspond in position and number to the joints between the plurality of panels. The joint between two abutting precast panels is sealed to provide a weather tight fit between the exterior and interior of the panels. The upper edge of the precast panels are locked in position keeping them from moving in either an inward or outward manner thereby providing a stable platform upon which a prefabricated structure can be placed.

Abstract: Mobile home skirt anchor mounting brackets permit standard 2 by 4s to be mounted on the front portion of a common cinderblock to provide a continuous surface to anchor skirting on mobile homes. A top member 12 has one side of a first downward flange attached to one end and one side of a second downward flange attached to its opposing end. A horizontal flange connects one side of a vertical flange to the opposing side of the second downward flange. Fastening holes are present in the middle of the vertical flange. The first downward flange, top member, and second downward flange are adapted to be seated over the top of a cinderblock. The second downward flange, horizontal flange, and vertical flange are adapted to mount the ends of a pair of adjacent 2 by 4s.

Abstract: A wall structure (10) comprising concrete composite masonry blocks (12) supported and interconnected by elongate support beams (16) is disclosed. The blocks (12) are shaped to be stacked in vertically independent columns (14) and are held in place by the specially shaped, lightweight support beams (16) placed between the adjacent columns (14). The wall structure (10) may be adapted for use as a bearing or non-bearing wall.

Abstract: A structure such as a demountable building (10) including a base (11), a plurality of modular units (12–17) which are arranged for connection to the base (11). Each unit is fitted out with functional elements to enable that unit to perform a predetermined function in the operation of the building (10). Each unit (12–17) and its associated functional elements being operative to be connected to, or removed from, the base (11) as a single unit.

Abstract: A system for skirting manufactured homes or similar buildings with modular concrete panels. The concrete panels are placed in edge-to-edge relationship about the perimeter of the building, and are secured to the rim joist by metal keys that interfit with adjoining edges of the panels. The lower edges of the panels are secure to the ground by cast-in tie-down straps through which stakes or other fasteners are driven. Each panel includes a wire rod reinforcement frame embedded in the concrete, and recessed areas for reducing weight. The panels may also include vent grills, flood vents and other openings. The panels are cast in pairs using a mold assembly having a stationary inner bulkhead and hinged outer bulkheads that pivot outwardly to release the panels when the concrete is set.

Abstract: A structure such as a demountable building (10) including a base (11), a plurality of modular units (12-17) which are arranged for connection to the base (11). Each unit is fitted out with functional elements to enable that unit to perform a predetermined function in the operation of the building (10). Each unit (12-17) and its associated functional elements being operative to be connected to, or removed from, the base (11) as a single unit.

Abstract: A wall structure comprising a plurality of columns of preformed, lightweight, stacked blocks, with the columns of blocks connected to each other by a plurality of elongated, vertically oriented, support beams. Preferably, the wall structure is operatively connected to a structure by one or more brackets. Each bracket includes a wall engaging portion and a structure engaging portion, and is configured and arranged to allow constrained movement of the wall structure in a predetermined direction. Preferably, the bracket is positioned such that the wall engaging portion is collaterally aligned with the longitudinal axis of a support beam so that one surface of the wall engaging portion is in a confronting relation therewith and an opposing surface of the wall engaging portion is in a confronting relation with a block.

Abstract: A wall structure (10, 110) and method of construction. The wall structure (10, 110) comprises a plurality of preformed, lightweight blocks (12, 112) supported and interconnected by a plurality of elongated, vertically oriented, collateral support beams (16, 116). Preferably, the support beams (16, 116) are operatively connected to an appropriate substructure (62, 100) and the lightweight blocks (12, 112) are operatively connected to the support beams (16, 116). The blocks (12, 112) and support beams (16, 116) are configured so that when they are connected to each other, a space is formed between the wall structure (10, 110) and the substructure (62, 100). Thus, an assembled wall structure (10) may be setoff from a substructure and the substructure (62, 100) may be used for other purposes.

Abstract: A skirting system for placement around a manufactured or modular home is provided wherein said system comprises a plurality of panels with upper and lower ends wherein the panels abut each other side to side to form a perimeter around the home. A plurality of base pads are provided and placed on the ground for supporting the lower ends of the panels. A plurality of two part channel clips are provided for securing the upper ends of the panels to the home in a manner that allows for vertical movement but provides for substantial support of the panels in a direction transverse to the length of the panels.

Abstract: A mortarless wall structure comprising a plurality of preformed, stackable blocks with the blocks operatively connected to each other by a plurality of elongated, vertically oriented, support beams. The blocks may include one or more channels that are configured and arranged to intercept moisture traversing from the front surface toward the rear face of the block, and to direct the moisture in a predetermined direction that does not intersect the rear face. The wall may be freestanding or operatively connected to a suitable support structure by one or more brackets. Each bracket includes a support beam engaging portion and a structure engaging portion, and is configured and arranged to allow constrained movement of the support beam in a predetermined direction relative to the support structure. When used in conjunction with a support structure, the wall may be provided with a sealing element that prevents moisture and debris from being introduced between the wall and the support structure.

Abstract: A system for skirting manufactured homes or similar buildings with modular concrete panels. The concrete panels are placed in edge-to-edge relationship about the perimeter of the building, and are secured to the rim joist by metal keys that interfit with adjoining edges of the panels. The lower edges of the panels are secure to the ground by cast-in tie-down straps through which stakes or other fasteners are driven. Each panel includes a wire rod reinforcement frame embedded in the concrete, and recessed areas for reducing weight. The panels may also include vent grills, flood vents and other openings. The panels are cast in pairs using a mold assembly having a stationary inner bulkhead and hinged outer bulkheads that pivot outwardly to release the panels when the concrete is set.

Abstract: A wall panel for a storage building is provided. The wall panel includes a first arcuate ridged region bounded by a first inner clamping surface, and a second inner clamping surface. The wall panel also includes a second arcuate ridged region bounded by a first outer clamping surface and a second outer clamping surface. The second arcuate ridged region of a first wall panel is adapted to securely overlap and snap-fit interconnect with said first arcuate ridged region of a second adjacent wall panel.

Abstract: A skirt assembly system for use on a mobile home. The skirt assembly system includes a plurality of telescoping studs. The skirt assembly system also includes a plurality of tracks wherein the stud are secured within the tracks with an edged of the stud facing out. The skirt assembly system also includes studs fastened to a side wall of the tracks. The skirt assembly system also includes a brace connected to the telescoping studs on one side thereof and connected to a bottom of the mobile home on an opposite end of the brace.

Abstract: The support system for a premanufactured building includes a foundation platform (12) having cleat walls (50-53) that penetrate the ground. A support stand (14) and its vertical support shaft (30) function as a pier to support the joist (18) of the building. A diagonal stabilizing strut (16) is connected at its upper end to the same or to an adjacent joist, and at its lower end to the support stand, so that compression forces applied by the joist to the strut (16) move from one side of the vertical load axis (28) to the other side of the axis and engage the foundation platform, so that the ground adjacent the cleats (50-53) resists movement of the joist.

Abstract: A cantilevered structural support comprises a counterbalance and an elongate support member that is secured to the counterbalance. A cantilevered portion of the support member extends outward from the counterbalance. When one or more cantilevered structural supports are used to support a freestanding structure, the cantilevered portions of the support members are configured to support 40% or more of the footprint area of the structure.

Abstract: A wall structure comprising a plurality of columns of preformed, lightweight, stacked blocks, with the columns of blocks connected to each other by a plurality of elongated, vertically oriented, support beams. Preferably, the wall structure is operatively connected to a structure by one or more brackets. Each bracket includes a wall engaging portion and a structure engaging portion, and is configured and arranged to allow constrained movement of the wall structure in a predetermined direction. Preferably, the bracket is positioned such that the wall engaging portion is collaterally aligned with the longitudinal axis of a support beam so that one surface of the wall engaging portion is in a confronting relation therewith and an opposing surface of the wall engaging portion is in a confronting relation with a block.

Abstract: A composite masonry block and wall system for skirting elevated structures. The block is shaped to be stacked in vertically independent columns, held in place by specially shaped, lightweight beams placed between adjacent columns, and also by synthetic U-shaped lateral supports which open downwardly and are attached to the bottom of the elevated structure.

Abstract: A skirt for a raised dwelling for restricting movement of air under a raised dwelling. The skirt for a raised dwelling includes a panel. The panel has a front side and a back side. The panel has a top edge and a bottom edge. The panel is corrugated such that pleat folds are defined. The pleat folds have ridge and valley lines orientated generally parallel to the top edge of the panel. The panel has a plurality of sets of apertures therein. Each of the sets of apertures is positioned along a line orientated generally perpendicular to the top and bottom edges of the panels. A space between each of the ridge and valley lines has one of the apertures therein. Each of a plurality of rods has a first end and a second end. The first ends are generally pointed. Each of the rods extends through one of the set of apertures, and the first ends of the rods are removably insertable in the ground.

Abstract: Systems and methods for anchoring or affixing a manufactured home to the land it is located on in a permanent or substantially permanent manner. A foundation for the manufactured home is provided by excavating a plurality of parallel trenches in a spaced relation to one another. Precast longitudinal footers are disposed in the trenches. The footers include anchoring receptacles to receive a complimentary anchoring member. Soil is backfilled around the footers to partially bury them, and then the support frame of a manufactured home is secured to the footers using an anchorage assembly with an adjustable tensioner. Support blocks are disposed between the footers and the support frame to maintain the manufactured home at a desired height above the footers or the ground.

Abstract: A method and system for providing the foundation pad and stem wall structure for mobile homes includes the steps of excavating a building site to form a substantially level building area; erecting simple concrete formwork to define and contain the pouring of a concrete slab foundation pad; positioning and leveling a plurality of stem wall support blocks at predetermined positions about and spaced inwardly of the periphery of the concrete formwork, the support blocks having an upper surface height which is less than the height of the formwork and hence the thickness of the future concrete slab foundation pad; placing precast concrete stem wall sections on the level support blocks to form an upright perimeter wall; and pouring the concrete slab foundation pad defined by the concrete formwork to embed the support blocks and bottom edge portion of the precast stem walls in the foundation pad thereby positively and rigidly fixing the stem wall and foundation pad together when the poured concrete cures.

Abstract: A prefabricated foundation panel for being supported on a footing to support the perimeter floor sill of a mobile home is disclosed. The panel has a generally rectangularly shaped frame including generally elongate, parallel and spaced, metallic top and bottom members as well as a plurality of spaced metallic cross members which are rigidly affixed to the top and bottom members. The outermost cross members of the frame are positioned so that they are flush with the ends of the top and bottom members. The top, bottom and cross members collectively define a plurality of spaces extending through the frame from an outer side thereof to an inner side thereof. A decorative aggregate coated facing is also provided for the panel which is attached to the outer side of the frame and which covers the plurality of spaces. A method of installing the panels around the lower periphery of a mobile home to enclose the lower periphery is also disclosed.

Abstract: A factory made building such as a mobile home (10) utilizing a connector (32, 60) attached to each of a plurality of outrigger beams (18) for stabilizing the mobile home (10) against strong winds. The mobile home (10) includes a structural support beam such as an I-beam (16) and a plurality of outrigger beams (18). An outrigger connector (32, 60) with an L-shaped portion (34) including a slot (46) and a protruding portion (56) extending outward from the L-shaped portion (34) at a substantially perpendicular angle is attached to each outrigger beam (18) at the protruding portion (56). A hurricane strap (48) is attached to the slot (46) and to a ground anchor (88) to secure the mobile home (10).

Abstract: A prefabricated foundation panel for being supported on a footing to support the perimeter floor sill of a mobile home is disclosed. The panel has a generally rectangularly shaped frame including generally elongate, parallel and spaced, metallic top and bottom members as well as a plurality of spaced metallic cross members which are rigidly affixed to the top and bottom members. The outermost cross members of the frame are positioned so that they are flush with the ends of the top and bottom members. The top, bottom and cross members collectively define a plurality of spaces extending through the frame from an outer side thereof to an inner side thereof. A decorative aggregate coated facing is also provided for the panel which is attached to the outer side of the frame and which covers the plurality of spaces. A method of installing the panels around the lower periphery of a mobile home to enclose the lower periphery is also disclosed.