Abstract: A system and method for managing one or more utility connections and utility lines (electrical, water, sewer, data, etc.) associated with a retractable building that may generally translate from a predominantly above grade position to a predominantly below grade position, and back again, is provided. The system includes a cable carrier with a fixed end configured with a first manifold bracket to receive the utility lines from the utility providers, and a movable end configured with a second manifold bracket to connect the utility lines to the building. During use, as the building is lowered underground, the system provides continual and uninterrupted utility connections between the utility providers and the building.

Abstract: An extendable cover system and method for extending a cover over an opening is provided. The system includes a plurality of panels oriented horizontally and stacked vertically at a side of the opening, with each panel held by a corresponding panel holding arm. One or more guide rails extend across the opening to receive the panels. A panel moving mechanism moves the panels one-by-one onto the one or more guide rails. Each time a panel is deployed, the panel holding arms are lifted vertically to align a next panel with the guide rails, the next panel is then deployed, and the process continues until the opening is covered.

Abstract: A system and method used to translate a building structure (e.g., a single-family home) from a first position (e.g., above grade) to a second position (e.g., below grade) is provided. The system may thereby protect building structures from above grade threats such as wildfires, tornados, hurricanes, and other threats by lowering the building structure into a below grade cavity and sealing it therein. The system may include a base that supports the building structure and a translation system that lowers the base and the building structure below grade. The translation system may include scissor lifts, hydraulic lifts, jackscrew lifts and/or other types of lifts. The system also may include a quick release utilities system to disconnect the various utilities during the translation and a protective roof that may be extended over the top of the building structure to protect it from the threats above.

Abstract: A system and method used to translate a building structure (e.g., a single-family home) from a first position (e.g., above grade) to a second position (e.g., below grade) is provided. The system may thereby protect building structures from above grade threats such as wildfires, tornados, hurricanes, and other threats by lowering the building structure into a below grade cavity and sealing it therein. The system may include a base that supports the building structure and a translation system that lowers the base and the building structure below grade. The translation system may include scissor lifts, hydraulic lifts, jackscrew lifts and/or other types of lifts. The system also may include a quick release utilities system to disconnect the various utilities during the translation and a protective roof that may be extended over the top of the building structure to protect it from the threats above.