Building Structure Translation System for Below-Grade Threat Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for protecting building structures from wildfires, tornadoes, and hurricanes are inadequate, as fire-resistant materials fail to withstand high temperatures and provide no protection against severe weather events, and existing systems do not offer comprehensive protection against multiple threats.
Innovation Solution
A building structure translation system that moves structures from above grade to below grade positions using a base structure assembly, receiving structure, and translation assembly, equipped with a protective cover and quick release utility system, to safeguard against threats and facilitate safe utility disconnection during emergencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fire-resistant materials are used to construct homes, then fire protection is provided, but the materials fail to withstand high temperatures of wildfires and lose protection properties within hours
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the building structure from a two-dimensional surface protection approach (fire-resistant coatings and materials on the exterior) to a three-dimensional spatial relocation approach. By translating the entire structure into a below-grade environment, the system creates a new spatial dimension for protection that completely isolates the building from wildfire temperatures, eliminating the temperature withstand limitation of fire-resistant materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary protective environment (the below-grade space with protective cover) between the building structure and the wildfire threat. This intermediary zone acts as a buffer that absorbs and isolates the thermal and physical impacts of wildfires, allowing the building to remain protected without directly exposing fire-resistant materials to extreme temperatures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If outdoor sprinkler systems are used to distribute water or fire prevention solutions, then fire prevention is provided, but the systems provide no protection against tornados, hurricanes, and other weather-related threats
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal protective system that serves multiple functions: it provides fire protection by isolating the building from wildfires, storm protection by shielding against tornados and hurricanes, and potential flood protection through the below-grade positioning. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate protection systems for different threats, achieving versatility while comprehensively addressing various harmful factors.
3Reliability
If a building structure translation system is implemented, then comprehensive protection against wildfires and weather threats is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the translation system into distinct functional segments: the translation assembly (which may include hydraulic, pneumatic, or mechanical components), the protective cover system, and the utility disconnection system. This segmentation allows each component to be independently designed, tested, and maintained, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive protection effectiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
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.