Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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MOBILE SERVICE BLOCK SYSTEM AND METHOD
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention generally relates to building systems, and is more
particularly
directed to a mobile service block system including prefabricated bathroom,
kitchen
and other service room units in a single compact and mobile form for
installation and
use in buildings.
BACKGROUND
In certain countries like Canada, each person consumes an average of nearly
329
liters of water per day. Energy and water conservation and management are
becoming important concerns in building constructions. Also, saving space and
minimizing the use of certain materials are also becoming important
considerations
when designing buildings.
Accordingly, there is a need for a building system and method that addresses
at
least one of the above-mentioned concerns.
SUMMARY
An object of the invention is therefore to provide a service block system
and/or a
corresponding method that addresses at least one of the above-mentioned needs.
More particularly, according to one aspect of the present invention, an object
is to
provide a service block system defining a living space for a user of said
service block
system, the service block system comprising:
- a base frame contained in the living space and delimiting a pair of
corresponding rooms of the living space, the base frame supporting at least
one
service unit selected from the group comprising a bathroom unit and a kitchen
unit;
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- a displacement mechanism operatively connected to the base frame for
displacement of the base frame within the living space in order to adjustably
vary
corresponding sizes of the rooms in accordance with a displacement of the base
frame about the living space of the service block system; and
- at least one connection selected from the group comprising plumbing and
electrical connections, for connecting the mobile service block system to a
corresponding infrastructure of a building associated to the service block
system.
According to another aspect of the present invention, an object is to provide
a mobile
service block system comprising:
-a base frame supporting at least one service unit selected from the group
comprising bathroom units, kitchen units, laundry units, and closet units; and
-a displacement mechanism operatively connected to the base frame for
displacement of the base frame and of the mobile service block system from one
location to another.
According to another aspect of the present invention, an object is to provide
a
method of installing a mobile service block system in a building, the method
comprising the steps of:
a) prefabricating a mobile service block system as defined herein at a
manufacturing location;
b) transporting the prefabricated mobile service block system from the
manufacturing location to a building location; and
C) connecting the prefabricated mobile service block system to a plumbing
and electrical infrastructure of the building.
According to the present invention, there is also provided a room unit
comprising a
mobile service block system as defined above.
Some objects, advantages and other features will become more apparent upon
reading the following non-restrictive description of certain optional
configurations,
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given for the purpose of exemplification only, with reference to the
accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better
understood with reference to the description in association with the following
Figures, in which similar references used in different Figures denote similar
components, wherein:
Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a mobile service block system
according to an
embodiment of the present invention.
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Figure 2 is a front view of the mobile service block system shown in Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a rear view of the mobile service block system shown in Figure 1.
Figures 4A and 4B are top views of a room unit including the mobile service
block
system shown in Figure 1 in a daytime configuration and a nighttime
configuration
respectively.
Figure 5 is a schematic view of manufacturing and installation of a mobile
service
block system.
Figures 6A to 6E are rear, front, top and side views respectively of the
mobile service
block system shown in Figure 1.
Figure 7A is a side cross-sectional view of the kitchen and laundry unit of
the mobile
service block system shown in Figure 1.
Figures 7B and 7C are front and side cross-sectional views respectively of a
bathroom unit of the mobile service block system shown in Figure 1.
Figures 8A to 8C are top, front and side cross-sectional views respectively of
a
kitchen unit of the mobile service block system shown in Figure 1.
Figures 9A to 9C are top, front and side views respectively of a bathroom unit
of the
mobile service block system shown in Figure 1.
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION
In the following description, the same numerical references refer to similar
elements.
Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity and clarity, namely so as to not
unduly burden
the figures with several references numbers, not all figures contain
references to all
the components and features, and references to some components and features
may
be found in only one figure, and components and features of the present
disclosure
which are illustrated in other figures can be easily inferred therefrom. The
embodiments, geometrical configurations, materials mentioned and/or dimensions
shown in the figures are optional, and are given for exemplification purposes
only.
Furthermore, although the present invention may be used as a mobile service
block
system in a residential building, for example, it is understood that it may be
used with
other types of buildings, for other purposes. For this reason, expressions
such as
"bathroom", "laundry", etc. as used herein should not be taken as to limit the
scope of
the present invention to being used with these residential buildings in
particular.
These expressions encompass all other kinds of materials, objects and/or
purposes
with other types of buidlings with which the present invention could be used
and may
be useful.
In addition, although the optional configurations as illustrated in the
accompanying
drawings comprises various components and although the optional configurations
of
the mobile service block system as shown may consist of certain geometrical
configurations as explained and illustrated herein, not all of these
components and
geometries are essential and thus should not be taken in their restrictive
sense, i.e.
should not be taken as to limit the scope of the present disclosure. It is to
be
understood that other suitable components and cooperations thereinbetween, as
well
as other suitable geometrical configurations may be used for the mobile
service block
system, and corresponding parts, as briefly explained and as can be easily
inferred
herefrom, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
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Referring to Figure 1, a mobile service block system 10 is shown. The mobile
service
block system 10 includes a base frame 12 supporting at least one service unit
14
selected from the group comprising bathroom units 16, kitchen units 18,
laundry units
5 20, and closet units 22. The mobile service block system 10 also includes
a
displacement mechanism 24 operatively connected to the base frame 12 for
displacement of the base frame 12 and of the mobile service block system 10
from
one location to another.
In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4B, the base frame 12 supports
an
integrated bathroom unit 16, kitchen unit 18, laundry unit 20 and closet unit
22.
In some implementations, the base frame 12 occupies a substantially
rectangular
footprint, the bathroom unit 16 occupies a first side portion of the
rectangular footprint,
the laundry unit 20 and the closet 22 unit are in a side-by-side configuration
and the
kitchen unit 18 is in a back-to-back configuration with respect to the side-by-
side
configuration of the laundry and closet units, 20,22, and wherein the kitchen,
laundry
and closet units occupy a second side portion of the rectangular footprint.
In preferred embodiments, the substantially rectangular footprint occupies a
surface
of about 55 ft2. However, the overall surface and shape of the footprint can
vary
according to the number of units located on the base frame 12. More units will
result
in a larger footprint, and less units will result in a smaller footprint.
In some implementations, the base frame 12 comprises FSC-certified wood
components.
In some implementations, the mobile service block system 10 further includes
plumping and electrical connections for connecting the mobile service block
system to
a plumbing and electrical infrastructure of a building.
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In some implementations, as shown in Figure 2, the bathroom unit 16 includes a
bathroom sink 30 and a toilet 32, the toilet 32 being configured to recycle
water from
the bathroom sink 30. The bathroom unit 16 can also include a shower 120 with
a
controller limiting shower time to 7 minutes, for example. Structural walls or
doors
122 of the bathroom unit can be made with flexible, durable materials that
perform
well under the repetitive displacements of the mobile service block system
In some implementations, the bathroom unit 16 further includes an openable
glass
window 34 for controlling humidity within the bathroom unit 16.
In some implementations, the displacement mechanism 24 comprises a plurality
of
360o pivotable wheel elements 36 distributed about the base frame 12, the
wheel
elements 36 being selectively lockable during operational use of the at least
one
service unit 14 and unlocked during displacement of the mobile service block
system
10.
In some implementations, as shown in Figure 3, at least one service unit 14
comprises a wall element 38 configured to support an electronic display system
40
mounted on a pivotable and adjustable base on an external face of the mobile
service block system 10. The closet unit 22 can include a deep closet space
124 that
can accommodate full length clothing. The laundry unit 20 can also include
optimized storage space 114, as well as a combined washer-condensation dryer
126, which reduces water and energy consumption.
In some implementations, as shown in Figure 2, the kitchen unit 18 includes a
stainless steel counter top 42 with an integrated kitchen sink 44. As better
shown in
Figures 8A to 8C, the kitchen units can have wood cupboards 102 with, for
example,
a clear varnish. Stainless steel plates 104 can be used to cover lateral
walls. A
wooden headboard 106 can be provided above the counter top 42, and can provide
an aperture to receive an electrical outlet. In some embodiments, the
stainless steel
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counter top 42 can be a 304 stainless steel caliber 16 counter top 108
configured to
receive a cooking surface 110. The kitchen unit 18 can also include a DEL
lighting
system 112. In the kitchen unit, storage areas 114 can be optimized for space
usage.
In some implementations, the mobile service block system 10 is configured to
receive energy and water efficient appliances 46 for use within the mobile
service
block system 10.
According to the present invention, as better shown in Figure 5, there is also
provided a method of installing a mobile service block system in a building
comprising:
a) prefabricating a mobile service block system as defined herein at a
manufacturing location (step 200);
b) transporting the prefabricated mobile service block system from the
manufacturing location to a building location (step 300); and
c) connecting the prefabricated mobile service block system to a plumbing
and electrical infrastructure of the building (step 400).
Prefabrication step
In all respects, prefabrication assists in installation at the worksite.
First, this type of
prefabrication construction encourages a better use of materials and
generating
much less losses. Skilled workers perform repetitive tasks and ensure a
greater
quality of assembly and in less time, thus resulting in cost savings. In the
end,
prefabrication offers better working conditions for workers and generates a
minimal
environmental impact.
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In some implementations, the prefabricating step further comprises a step of
storing
a plurality of mobile service block systems at the manufacturing location,
thus
avoiding further transport.
Transporting step
In some implementations, the prefabricated mobile service block system is
wrapped
in recycled cardboard during the transporting step. Such packaging minimally
protects the contents until delivery. The distribution is done by truck, where
the
modules are stored and protected by reusable blankets in the semi-trailer box,
until
delivery at the building directly to the accommodation of the user. As shown
in step
400 of Figure 5, a "forklift" can be used to introduce the system on different
floors
and where the system is readily connectable for use.
In some implementations, the system consumes about 35% less water and 45% less
energy than a similar standard residential development. Its durable design
allows it
to be moved from one dwelling to another and offers a long term solution.
Obsolete
components can be easily replaced, thus ensuring an extended life time.
Recycling step
In some implementations, the method further includes a step of disassembling
and
recycling (step 500) the mobile service block system at an end of an
operational life
of the mobile service block system. Having reached the end of its useful life,
the
system can be largely disassembled and more than 90% recycled. After-sales
service available on site can encourage users to send obsolete parts or the
entire
system to the appropriate recycling center.
According to the present invention, as better shown in Figures 4A and 4B,
there is
also provided a room unit 50 including a mobile service block system as
defined
herein.
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In some implementations, the mobile service block system 10 is displaceable
between a daytime location for operational use during a daytime period (shown
in
Figure 4A) and a nighttime location for operational use during a nighttime
period
(shown in Figure 4B).
In some implementations, this prefabricated system can be pre-fitted with
energy and
water efficient appliances and can be characterized by various environmental
aspects, including its FSC-certified wood structure (see step 100 in Figure
5), low
consumption of water and energy, durability, etc.. Operation of the system is
simple,
flexible and easily adaptable to various buildings, as small as it is,
provided that
access to water and electricity connections is possible in the building.
Unlike prefabricated bathrooms and kitchens already available on the market,
the
system is distinguished by its mobility and overall ecodesign. Its size, its
weight, small
footprint, is easy to integrate a multitude of areas, as its low energy and
water
consumption and sleek design make it a great alternative.
By its small size, the system requires approximately 47% less raw materials
when
compared to several traditional kitchens, laundry room and bath designs. The
construction of a frame and a trim structure of FSC-certified wood from a
regional
supply provides a guarantee of concern for resource management. The FSC label
thus provides added value to the project. The choice of stainless steel also
proves
interesting because a large portion of the system comes from recycling local
waste.
In some implementations, the system 10 is a 55ft2 mobile service block
together with
pre-fitted energy and water efficient kitchen, laundry and bathroom amenities.
This
prefabricated module and equipped with approved appliances is characterized by
various environmental aspects, including its FSC-certified wood structure (see
step
100 in Figure 5), low consumption of water and energy, durability, etc. The
operation
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is simple, flexible and easily adaptable to various facilities, as small as it
is, if access
to water and electricity connections are possible.
In some implementations, the design of the system is characterized by a
5 comprehensive approach to product life cycle, from raw material extraction
to
disposal at end of life. Different economic, social and environmental issues
were
identified considering the stages of life cycle analysis and were addressed to
propose
a solution to the various problems of production and consumption that were
observed.
Various strategies were used to minimize adverse environmental and social
impacts,
10 including a selection of local materials that are durable and resistant
over time. In
addition, the small design of the module and its prefabrication ensures
optimized
production and improved resource management. The selected components of the
module are there to reduce the consumption of water and energy.
In some implementations, the system on wheels fits various floor plans.
Through its
simple architecture, it gives way to an airy, free expression that everyone
can
customize. The system is ecologically designed and consumes resources
responsibly. The durability of the module allows it to be moved. Thus, in the
long
term, it can easily be transported by truck, connected and reused in a new
space, as
if the system was an average piece of furniture, all with maximum comfort in a
minimum of space.
The realization of this type of construction can encourage other companies to
create
eco minimalist architectural design, thereby seeking to reduce their
environmental
footprint and lead to rethinking mass residential building. The Applicant
encourages
other architects, designers, developers and contractors to develop and promote
solutions to overconsumption. Oversized houses are outdated. By offering a
unique
usage scenario based on the sustainability objectives of eco-design, the
system
provides a long-term solution that follows us over time. Its raw materials and
simple
designs are timeless. The goal is to educate and inspire corporate actors to
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undertake such an approach in the context of a more conscious development of
the
environment for this growing sector of construction projects. Overall, the
Applicant
seeks to inspire a better management of resources among the population in the
hope a healthier planet.
The following table shows examples of water and energy consumption of
components used in the mobile service block system in contrast with
traditional
components:
WATER ENERGY
Components CONSUMPTION CONSUMPTION
Toilet macerator system according to embodiment - 8 kWh/year
Traditional toilet 13 L/flush
Toilet according to embodiment less than 6L/flush* -
Traditional bathroom faucet 13.5 Umin
Bathroom faucet according to embodiment 9 L/min
Traditional shower 9.5 Umin
Shower according to embodiment 6.65 Umin
Traditional washer-dryer 90 L/wash 500 kWh/year
Washer-dryer according to embodiment 40 L/wash 216 kWh/year
Traditional fridge 550 kWh/year
Fridge according to embodiment 330 kWh/year
Traditional kitchen faucet 13.5 Umin
Kitchen faucet according to embodiment 5.7 Umin
Traditional 4-piece cooking surface 400 kWh/year
2-piece cooking surface according to embodiment - 365 kWh/year
Traditional dish-washer 45 L/wash 310 kWh/year
Hand washing of dishes according to embodiment 15 L/wash
Traditional microwave 30 kWh/year
Microwave according to embodiment 25 kWh/year
Traditional water heater 5 000 kWh/year
Instant water heater according to embodiment 2 000 kWh/year
Traditional television 100 kWh/year
Television according to embodiment 53 kWh/year
*unused faucet water sent to the toilet
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In ending, the scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred
embodiments set forth in the examples, but should be given the broadest
interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.
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