CENTRAL CORE FOR A BUILDING

Abstract

A prefabricated core for a building with all services already built in. The core serves as: 1. the housing for all the home's mechanical, plumbing and electrical sources, and 2. a major structural support, providing three shear walls to the structure. This invention allows access to all of the services thus allowing for ease of maintenance and avoidance of collateral damage during renovations and remodeling.

Claims

1. A core for a building comprising: a) a framework of rectangular shape having N, E, S and W sides; said framework comprised of a plurality of vertical and horizontal beams connected to each other; portions of said horizontal beams protruding past said vertical beams; whereby said protruding portions have protruding ends b) a plurality of building subsystems attached inside of said framework; some of said subsystems provided with connections for connecting with city services; c) an interior panel attached to said E, S and W sides; and d) an exterior panel attached to said N side.

2. A core as claimed in claim 1 in which said framework is comprised of a front half framework and a rear half framework; said front half framework having a front E half side a front W half-side and said N side; a front S side of said front half-framework being open; said rear half-framework having a rear E half side a rear W half-side and said S side; a rear N side of said half-framework being open.

3. A core as claimed in claim 1 further comprising a plurality of brackets attached to the protruding ends of said beams.

4. A core as claimed in claim 3 in which said interior panel comprises studs attached to interior facings; said studs attached to said brackets.

5. A core as claimed in claim 4 further comprising a first ledger positioned to support a floor and a second ledger positioned to support a ceiling attached through said interior facings and into said studs.

6. A core as claimed in claim 3 in which said exterior panel comprises studs attached to exterior facings; said studs attached to said brackets.

7. A core as claimed in claim 4 or 6 in which said studs and panels are wooden.

8. A core as claimed in claim 1 in which said subsystems include: a) an electrical subsystem; b) an exhaust subsystem; c) a gas subsystem; d) an air supply subsystem; e) a fire suppression subsystem; f) a phone subsystem; g) a lighting subsystem; h) a sewer subsystem; and i) a water subsystem.

9. A core as claimed in claim 8 in which said subsystems further include a) a TV distribution subsystem; b) a Wi Fi subsystem; and c) a water softening subsystem.

10. A core as claimed in claim 1 in which city services include water, gas, sewer, phone, cable and electricity.

11. A core for a building comprising: a) a front half framework of rectangular shape having a front top, front E and W half sides, and front N and S sides; said front S side being open; b) a rear half framework of rectangular shape having a rear top, rear E and W half sides, and rear N and S sides; said rear N side being open; c) said half frameworks comprised of a plurality of vertical and horizontal beams connected to each other; portions of said horizontal beams protruding past said vertical beams; whereby said protruding portions have protruding ends; d) a front lifting mechanism attached to said front top; e) a rear lifting mechanism attached to said rear top; f) a set of building subsystems attached inside said front and rear half frameworks; some of said subsystems provided with connections for connecting with city services; g) an interior panel attached to said front E and W half sides, said rear E and W half sides, and said rear S side; and h) an exterior panel attached to said front N side

12. A core as claimed in claim 11 further comprising a plurality of brackets attached to the protruding ends of said beams.

13. A core as claimed in claim 12 in which said interior panel comprises studs attached to interior facings; said studs attached to said brackets.

14. A core as claimed in claim 13 further comprising a first ledger positioned to support a floor and a second ledger positioned to support a ceiling attached through said interior facings and into said studs.

15. A core as claimed in claim 12 in which exterior panel comprises studs attached to exterior facings; said studs attached to said brackets.

16. A core as claimed in claim 12 or 13 in which said studs and panels are wooden.

17. A core as claimed in claim 11 in which said subsystems include: a) an electrical subsystem; b) an exhaust subsystem; c) a gas subsystem; d) an air supply subsystem; e) a fire suppression subsystem; f) a phone subsystem; g) a lighting subsystem; h) a sewer subsystem; and i) a water subsystem.

18. A core as claimed in claim 17 in which said subsystems further include a) a TV distribution subsystem; b) a Wi Fi subsystem; and c) a water softening subsystem.

19. A core as claimed in claim 11 in which city services are water, gas, sewer, phone, cable and electricity.

20. A core as claimed in claim 8 or 17 in in which said electrical subsystem comprises: a) an electric meter mounted on said exterior covering; said electrical meter adapted to connect with a city electrical service; b) a circuit breaker box; and c) a junction box; interconnected by electrical wiring running through conduit.

21. A core as claimed in claim 8 or 17 in in which said exhaust subsystem comprises an inline fan and interconnecting ducting

22. A core as claimed in claim 8 or 17 in in which said gas subsystem comprises an interconnecting a gas pipe.

23. A core as claimed in claim 8 or 17 in in which said air supply subsystem comprises: a) a furnace; b) a heating coil; c) a return plenum; d) a first supply plenum; e) a second supply plenum; f) an air supply duct; and g) an air return.

24. A core as claimed in claim 8 or 17 in in which said fire suppression subsystem comprises: a) a fire sprinkler riser connected to connect to a city water main; and b) a drain connected to said fire sprinkler riser.

25. A core as claimed in claim 8 or 17 in in which said phone subsystem comprises: a) a punch block for connection to a city phone service; b) a wire connected to said punch block, and adapted to connect to a telephone.

26. A core as claimed in claim 8 or 17 in which said lighting subsystem comprises: an internet protocol lighting control panel electrically connected to said breaker box.

27. A core as claimed in claim 8 or 17 in in which said sewer subsystem comprises: a) a sewer pipe adapted to connect to a city sanitary drain; b) a drain pipe connected to said sewer pipe, adapted for attachment to a sink; c) a drain pipe connected to said sewer pipe, attachment to a toilet bowl; d) a drain pipe connected to said sewer pipe, for attachment to a tub; and e) a drain pipe connected to said sewer pipe, for attachment to a shower.

28. A core as claimed in claim 8 or 17 in which said water subsystem comprises: a) a water influx pipe, adapted to connect to a city water main; b) a cold water distribution pipe connected to said water influx pipe and adapted to connect to a cold water appliance; c) a tankless water heater connected to cold water distribution pipe; and d) a hot water distribution pipe connected to said tankless water heater and adapted to connect to a hot water appliance.

29. A core as claimed in claim 9 or 18 in in which said TV distribution subsystem comprises a coax adapted to connect to a TV antenna or a city cable TV service.

30. A core as claimed in claim 9 or 18 in in which said Wi-Fi subsystem comprises a wireless modem connected to a city internet service.

31. A core as claimed in claim 9 or 18 in in which said water softening subsystem comprises a water softener connected between said water influx and said cold water distribution pipe.

32. A method of constructing a core for a building, comprising the steps of: a) providing a plurality of vertical and horizontal beams; b) connecting said beams so as to form a framework of rectangular shape having a top, and N, E, S and W sides with portions of said horizontal beams protruding past said vertical beams; whereby said protruding portions have protruding ends; c) providing a plurality of building subsystems; some of said subsystems provided with connections for connecting with city services; d) providing a lifting mechanism; e) attaching said lifting mechanism to said top; f) attaching said subsystems inside of said framework; g) providing an interior panel; h) attaching said interior panel to said E, S and W sides; i) providing an exterior panel; and j) attaching said exterior panel to said N side.

33. A method as claimed in claim 32, further comprising the steps of: a) pouring a foundation is a building site; b) providing a location remote from said building site: c) constructing said core at said remote location; d) lifting said core with said lifting mechanism; e) placing said core on a vehicle; f) transporting said core to said building site; and g) placing said core on said foundation so that said exterior panel is at an exterior of said building.

34. A method as claimed in claim 32 in which said framework is comprised of a front half framework and a rear half framework; said front half framework having front E and W half-sides and said N side; a front S side of said front half-framework being open; said rear half-framework having rear E and W half-sides and said S side; a rear N side of said half-framework being open

35. A method as claimed in claim 32 further comprising the step of attaching a plurality of brackets to the protruding ends of said beams.

36. A method as claimed in claim 35 wherein said step of providing said interior panel comprises the steps of: a) providing studs and interior facings; and b) attaching said studs to said interior facings.

37. A method as claimed in claim 36 wherein said step of attaching said interior panel to said E, S and W sides comprises the step of attaching said studs to said brackets.

38. A method as claimed in claim 36 further comprising the steps of: a) providing a floor ledger and a ceiling ledger; b) positioning said floor ledger on said S, E and W sides at a level to support a floor; c) attaching said floor ledger through said interior facings and into said studs; d) positioning said ceiling ledger on said S, E and W sides at a level to support a ceiling; and e) attaching said ceiling ledger through said interior facings and into said studs.

39. A method as claimed in claim 35 wherein said step of providing an exterior panel comprises the steps of: a) providing studs and exterior facings; b) attaching said studs to said exterior facings; and c) attaching said studs to said facings.

40. A method as claimed in claim 35 wherein said step of attaching said exterior panel to said E, S and W sides comprises the step of attaching said studs to said brackets.

41. A method as claimed in claim 36 or 39 in which said studs and panels are wooden.

42. A method as claimed in claim 32 in which said subsystems include: a) an electrical subsystem; b) an exhaust subsystem; c) a gas subsystem; d) an air supply subsystem; e) a fire suppression subsystem; f) a phone subsystem; g) a lighting subsystem; h) a sewer subsystem; and i) a water subsystem.

43. A method as claimed in claim 40 in which said subsystems further include a) a TV distribution subsystem; b) a Wi Fi subsystem; and c) a water softening subsystem.

44. A method as claimed in claim 32 in which city services include water, gas, sewer, phone, cable and electricity.

45. A method of fabricating a core for a building comprising the steps of: a) providing a plurality of vertical and horizontal beams b) connecting a front set of said beams to form a front half framework of rectangular shape having a front top, front E and W half sides, and front N and S sides; said front S side being open; c) connecting a rear set of said beams to form a rear half framework of rectangular shape having a rear top, rear E and W half sides, and rear N and S sides; said rear N side being open; portions of said horizontal beams protruding past said vertical beams; whereby said protruding portions have protruding ends; d) providing a front lifting mechanism; e) attaching said front lifting mechanism to said front top; f) providing a rear lifting mechanism; g) attaching said rear lifting mechanism to said rear top; h) providing a set of building subsystems; some of said subsystems provided with connections for connecting with city services; i) attaching said building subsystems inside said front and rear half frameworks; providing an interior panel; j) attaching said interior panel to said front E and W half sides, said rear E and W half sides, and said rear S side; whereby a rear half core is fabricated; k) providing an exterior panel; and l) attaching said exterior panel to said front N side; whereby a front half core is fabricated.

46. A method as claimed in claim 45 further comprising the step of attaching a plurality of brackets to the protruding ends of said beams.

47. A method as claimed in claim 45 wherein said step of providing said interior panel comprises the steps of: a) providing studs and interior facings; and b) attaching said studs to said interior facings.

48. A method as claimed in claim 45 wherein said step of attaching said interior panel to said E half sides, said W half sides and said S side comprises the step of attaching said studs to said brackets.

49. A method as claimed in claim 47 or 48 further comprising the steps of: a) providing a floor ledger and a ceiling ledger; b) positioning said floor ledger on said S side and said E and W half sides at a level to support a floor; c) attaching said floor ledger through said interior facings and into said studs; d) positioning said ceiling ledger on said S side and said E and W half sides at a level to support a ceiling; and e) attaching said ceiling ledger through said interior facings and into said studs.

50. A method as claimed in claim 45 wherein said step of providing an exterior panel comprises the steps of: a) providing studs and exterior facings; and b) attaching said studs to said exterior facings.

51. A method as claimed in claim 46 wherein said step of attaching said exterior panel to said N side comprises the step of attaching said studs to said brackets.

52. A method as claimed in claim 47 or 50 in which said studs and panels are wooden.

53. A method as claimed in claim 45 in which said subsystems include: a) an electrical subsystem; b) an exhaust subsystem; c) a gas subsystem; d) an air supply subsystem; e) a fire suppression subsystem; f) a phone subsystem; g) a lighting subsystem; h) a sewer subsystem; and i) a water subsystem.

54. A method as claimed in claim 53 in which said subsystems further include a) a TV distribution subsystem; b) a Wi Fi subsystem; and c) a water softening subsystem.

55. A method as claimed in claim 45 in which city services are water, gas, sewer, phone, cable and electricity.

56. A method as claimed in claim 45, further comprising the steps of: a) pouring a foundation at a building site; b) providing a level location remote from said building site; c) constructing said front and rear half cores adjacent each other on said level location; d) testing a least one building subsystem; e) lifting said half cores with their respective lifting mechanisms; f) placing said front half core on a first vehicle; g) placing said rear half core on a second vehicle; h) transporting said half cores to said building site; and i) placing said half cores on said foundation so that said N wall of said rear half core abuts said S wall of said front half core and said exterior panel is at an exterior of said building.

57. A method as claimed in claim 32 or 45 in in which said electrical subsystem comprises: a) an electric meter mounted on said exterior covering; said electrical meter adapted to connect with a city electrical service; b) a circuit breaker box; and c) a junction box; interconnected by electrical wiring running through conduit.

58. A method as claimed in claim 32 or 45 in in which said exhaust subsystem comprises an inline fan and interconnecting ducting

59. A method as claimed in claim 32 or 45 in in which said gas subsystem comprises an interconnecting a gas pipe.

60. A method as claimed in claim 32 or 45 in in which said air supply subsystem comprises: a) a furnace; b) a heating coil; c) a return plenum; d) a first supply plenum; e) a second supply plenum; f) an air supply duct; and g) an air return.

61. A method as claimed in claim 32 or 45 in in which said fire suppression subsystem comprises: a) a fire sprinkler riser connected to connect to a city water main; and b) a drain connected to said fire sprinkler riser.

62. A method as claimed in claim 32 or 45 in in which said phone subsystem comprises: a) a punch block for connection to a city phone service; b) a wire connected to said punch block, and adapted to connect to a telephone.

63. A method as claimed in claim 32 or 45 in which said lighting subsystem comprises an internet protocol lighting control panel electrically connected to said breaker box.

64. A method as claimed in claim 32 or 45 in in which said sewer subsystem comprises: a) a sewer pipe adapted to connect to a city sanitary drain; b) a drain pipe connected to said sewer pipe, adapted for attachment to a sink; c) a drain pipe connected to said sewer pipe, attachment to a toilet bowl; d) a drain pipe connected to said sewer pipe, for attachment to a tub; and e) a drain pipe connected to said sewer pipe, for attachment to a shower.

65. A method as claimed in claim 32 or 45 in which said water subsystem comprises: a) a water influx pipe, adapted to connect to a city water main; b) a cold water distribution pipe connected to said water influx pipe and adapted to connect to a cold water appliance; c) a tankless water heater connected to cold water distribution pipe; and d) a hot water distribution pipe connected to said tankless water heater and adapted to connect to a hot water appliance.

66. A method as claimed in claim 33 or 46 in in which said TV distribution subsystem comprises a coax adapted to connect to a TV antenna or a city cable TV service.

67. A method as claimed in claim 33 or 46 in in which said Wi-Fi subsystem comprises a wireless modem connected to a city internet service.

68. A method as claimed in claim 33 or 46 in in which said water softening subsystem comprises a water softener connected between said water influx and said cold water distribution pipe.

69. A core as claimed in claim 1 or 11 in which said exterior panel includes a door sized to allow a person to enter and exit, upright.

70. A core as claimed in claim 32 or 45 in which said exterior panel includes a door sized to allow a person to enter and exit, upright.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0099] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of framework. This is how the framework may be fabricated in the factory.

[0100] FIG. 1A is an elevational view of the E side of the framework shown in FIG. 1.

[0101] FIG. 1B is an elevational view of the S side of the framework shown in FIG. 1.

[0102] FIG. 1C is an elevational view of the N side of the framework shown in FIG. 1.

[0103] FIG. 1D is an elevational view of the W side of the framework shown in FIG. 1.

[0104] FIG. 2 is a three-dimensional view of the rear half of the framework. This is how the framework may be fabricated in the factory.

[0105] FIG. 2A is an elevational view of the E side of the framework shown in FIG. 2.

[0106] FIG. 2B is an elevational view of the W side of the framework shown in FIG. 2.

[0107] FIG. 2C is an elevational view of the N side of the framework shown in FIG. 2.

[0108] FIG. 2D is an elevational view of the S side of the framework shown in FIG. 2.

[0109] FIG. 3 is an elevational view of how front and rear frames are positioned for installation of the subsystems at the factory.

[0110] FIG. 4 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of framework with the electrical subsystem installed. This is how the electrical system may be installed on the framework in the factory.

[0111] FIG. 4A is an elevational view of the S side of the framework shown in FIG. 4.

[0112] FIG. 4B is an elevational view of the N side of the framework shown in FIG. 4.

[0113] FIG. 4C is an elevational view of the E side of the framework shown in FIG. 4.

[0114] FIG. 4D is an elevational view of the W side of the framework shown in FIG. 4.

[0115] FIG. 5 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of framework with the exhaust subsystem installed. This is how the exhaust subsystem may be installed on the framework in the factory.

[0116] FIG. 5A is an elevational view of the N side of the framework shown in FIG. 5.

[0117] FIG. 5B is an elevational view of the E side of the framework shown in FIG. 5.

[0118] FIG. 5C is an elevational view of the S side of the framework shown in FIG. 5.

[0119] FIG. 5D is an elevational view of the W side of the framework shown in FIG. 5.

[0120] FIG. 6 is a three-dimensional view of the rear half of framework with the electrical subsystem installed. This is how the electrical system may be installed on the framework in the factory.

[0121] FIG. 6A is an elevational view of the S side of the framework shown in FIG. 6.

[0122] FIG. 6B is an elevational view of the E side of the framework shown in FIG. 6.

[0123] FIG. 6C is an elevational view of the N side of the framework shown in FIG. 6.

[0124] FIG. 6D is an elevational view of the W side of the framework shown in FIG. 6.

[0125] FIG. 7 is a three-dimensional view of the rear half of framework with the exhaust subsystem installed. This is how the exhaust system may be installed on the framework in the factory.

[0126] FIG. 7A is an elevational view of the N side of the framework shown in FIG. 7.

[0127] FIG. 7B is an elevational view of the E side of the framework shown in FIG. 7.

[0128] FIG. 7C is an elevational view of the S side of the framework shown in FIG. 7.

[0129] FIG. 7D is an elevational view of the W side of the framework shown in FIG. 7.

[0130] FIG. 8 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of framework with the gas subsystem installed. This is how the gas subsystem may be installed on the framework in the factory.

[0131] FIG. 8A is an elevational view of the N side of the framework shown in FIG. 8.

[0132] FIG. 8B is an elevational view of the E side of the framework shown in FIG. 8.

[0133] FIG. 8C is an elevational view of the S side of the framework shown in FIG. 8.

[0134] FIG. 8D is an elevational view of the W side of the framework shown in FIG. 8.

[0135] FIG. 9 is a three-dimensional view of the rear half of framework with the gas subsystem installed. This is how the gas subsystem may be installed on the framework in the factory.

[0136] FIG. 9A is an elevational view of the N side of the framework shown in FIG. 9.

[0137] FIG. 9B is an elevational view of the E side of the framework shown in FIG. 9.

[0138] FIG. 9C is an elevational view of the S side of the framework shown in FIG. 9.

[0139] FIG. 9D is an elevational view of the W side of the framework shown in FIG. 9.

[0140] FIG. 10 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of framework with the air supply subsystem installed. This is how the air supply subsystem may be installed on the framework in the factory.

[0141] FIG. 10A is an elevational view of the N side of the framework shown in FIG. 10.

[0142] FIG. 10B is an elevational view of the E side of the framework shown in FIG. 10.

[0143] FIG. 10C is an elevational view of the S side of the framework shown in FIG. 10.

[0144] FIG. 10D is an elevational view of the W side of the framework shown in FIG. 10.

[0145] FIG. 11 is a three-dimensional view of the rear half of framework with the air supply subsystem installed. This is how the air supply subsystem may be installed on the framework in the factory.

[0146] FIG. 11A is an elevational view of the N side of the framework shown in FIG. 11.

[0147] FIG. 11B is an elevational view of the E side of the framework shown in FIG. 11.

[0148] FIG. 11C is an elevational view of the S side of the framework shown in FIG. 11.

[0149] FIG. 11D is an elevational view of the W side of the framework shown in FIG. 11.

[0150] FIG. 12 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of framework with the fire suppression subsystem installed. This is how the fire suppression subsystem may be installed on the framework in the factory.

[0151] FIG. 12A is an elevational view of the N side of the framework shown in FIG. 12.

[0152] FIG. 12B is an elevational view of the E side of the framework shown in FIG. 12.

[0153] FIG. 12C is an elevational view of the S side of the framework shown in FIG. 12.

[0154] FIG. 12D is an elevational view of the W side of the framework shown in FIG. 12.

[0155] FIG. 13 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of framework with the sewer subsystem installed. This is how the sewer subsystem may be installed on the framework in the factory.

[0156] FIG. 13A is an elevational view of the N side of the framework shown in FIG. 13.

[0157] FIG. 13B is an elevational view of the E side of the framework shown in FIG. 13.

[0158] FIG. 13C is an elevational view of the S side of the framework shown in FIG. 13.

[0159] FIG. 13D is an elevational view of the W side of the framework shown in FIG. 13.

[0160] FIG. 14 is a three-dimensional view of the rear half of framework with the sewer subsystem installed. This is how the sewer subsystem may be installed on the framework in the factory.

[0161] FIG. 14A is an elevational view of the N side of the framework shown in FIG. 14.

[0162] FIG. 14B is an elevational view of the E side of the framework shown in FIG. 14.

[0163] FIG. 14C is an elevational view of the S side of the framework shown in FIG. 14.

[0164] FIG. 14D is an elevational view of the W side of the framework shown in FIG. 14.

[0165] FIG. 15 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of framework with the water subsystem installed. This is how the fire sewer subsystem may be installed on the framework in the factory.

[0166] FIG. 15A is an elevational view of the N side of the framework shown in FIG. 15.

[0167] FIG. 15B is an elevational view of the E side of the framework shown in FIG. 15.

[0168] FIG. 15C is an elevational view of the S side of the framework shown in FIG. 15.

[0169] FIG. 15D is an elevational view of the W side of the framework shown in FIG. 15.

[0170] FIG. 16 is a three-dimensional view of the rear half of framework with the water subsystem installed. This is how the water subsystem may be installed on the framework in the factory.

[0171] FIG. 16A is an elevational view of the N side of the framework shown in FIG. 16.

[0172] FIG. 16B is an elevational view of the E side of the framework shown in FIG. 16.

[0173] FIG. 16C is an elevational view of the S side of the framework shown in FIG. 16.

[0174] FIG. 16D is an elevational view of the W side of the framework shown in FIG. 16.

[0175] FIG. 17 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of framework with the all subsystems installed. This is how all the subsystems may be installed on the framework in the factory.

[0176] FIG. 17A is an elevational view of the N side of the framework shown in FIG. 17.

[0177] FIG. 17B is an elevational view of the E side of the framework shown in FIG. 17.

[0178] FIG. 17C is an elevational view of the S side of the framework shown in FIG. 17.

[0179] FIG. 17D is an elevational view of the W side of the framework shown in FIG. 17.

[0180] FIG. 18 is a three-dimensional view of the rear half of framework 26 with the all subsystems installed. This is how all the subsystems may be installed on the Half-framework 8 in the factory.

[0181] FIG. 19 is an elevational view of the E side of the front and rear halves separated but with temporary connections of the subsystems on the two halves for testing.

[0182] FIG. 20 is a three-dimensional view of front and rear sections joined together with all systems installed. The wall panels are omitted to provide a view of all installed systems.

[0183] FIG. 21 is a three-dimensional view of the front and rear sections joined together and exterior panel applied. For clarity only the framework 8 is shown.

[0184] FIG. 21A is an elevational view from the N side of the assembly shown in FIG. 21.

[0185] FIG. 22 is a three-dimensional view of the front and rear sections joined together and partially covered with interior and exterior panels or walls installed. For clarity only the framework 8 is shown.

[0186] FIG. 23 is an elevational view of the front and rear halves separated and covered. This is how the front and rear halves may appear after completion in the factory

[0187] FIG. 24 is a three-dimensional view of the front and rear halves covered and joined. This is how the full core appears after installation at the job site.

[0188] FIG. 25 is a three-dimensional view of the bathroom and kitchen joined to the fully assembled core at the building site

[0189] FIG. 26 is a three-dimensional cut away view showing aspects of wall construction.

[0190] FIG. 27 is a three-dimensional cut away view showing further aspects of interior panel construction

[0191] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view illustrating construction of an exterior panel

[0192] FIG. 29 is a flow diagram describing steps of building a house employing a two-piece core

[0193] FIG. 30 is a flow diagram describing steps of building a house employing a one-piece core.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0194] While the present invention is described herein with reference to illustrative embodiments for particular applications, it should be understood that the invention is not limited thereto. Those having ordinary skill in the art and access to the teachings provided herein will recognize additional modifications, applications, and embodiments within the scope thereof and additional fields in which the present invention would be of significant utility.

[0195] The figures from incorporated U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/748,751 illustrate aspects of embodiments of the invention pertaining to the building infrastructure incorporated into the completed core. In the embodiment described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/748,751, the prefabricated core is constructed as one unit, and is transported to the building site, as a four-sided room including an exterior panel and three interior panels joined together. The embodiment described in the instant application is an improvement of that described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/748,751.

[0196] In the embodiment described in the instant application, the prefabricated core 174 is constructed, and may be transported to the building site, as two half-cores 182 186. At the building site, the two half-cores 182 186 are joined together to form a four sided room. FIGS. 1-45 of application Ser. No. 12/748,751 illustrate how the infrastructure components are incorporated into the completed core four-sided room. FIGS. 1-25 of the instant application illustrate aspects of prefabrication of the core 174 in two half-cores 182 186.

[0197] Advantages to constructing the core 174 in two half-cores 182 186 include enabling two people to work in parallel on different components, e.g., electrical and plumbing. Additionally, the sizes of the two half-cores 182 186 are designed so that transport of the two half-cores 182 186 to the building site can be accomplished with available transportation without the need for wide load carriage.

[0198] In the instant invention some components need to be connected across the midline 178 between the two half-cores 182 186. In these cases, connections are made between a component in the front half-core 182 and the corresponding component in the rear half-core 186 for testing purposes. Then the components are disconnected for transport. Finally, the affected components are reconnected when the two half-cores 182 186 are joined on the building site.

[0199] FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate the fully assembled, prefabricated core 174 of this invention. While FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate a two story core 174, those familiar with the field to which this invention pertains will realize that the core 174, can be one or more stories tall.

[0200] The completed core 174 is a room which has one exterior panel 172 and three interior panels 110. In embodiments described in this application, the completed core 174 is constructed of two core half-cores 182 186. Each half-core 182 186 of the core 174, described in this application, comprises a three-sided room having three closed sides and one open side. At the job site, the two half-cores 182 186 are placed next to each other open side to open side, with the exterior wall 173 at a location which will become the outside of the house and joined together to form the completed core 174.

[0201] Each half-core 182 186 of the core 174 may be constructed on a half-framework 10 26 of vertical 12v and horizontal 12h metal beams. Brackets 22 may be attached at the ends 16 of the horizontal beams 12h. All components are mounted on these half-frameworks 10 26, and the interior panels 110 and exterior panel 172 may be attached to the brackets 22. The interior panels 110 are made of a framework of wood or metal studs 210 covered with interior panel facings 226. The interior panel facings 226 may be plywood or particle board or similar material. The exterior wall 173 is likewise made of a framework of wood or metal studs 210 covered with an exterior panel facing 236 and coated with an exterior finish 170. The exterior panel facing 236 is, preferably, a polyvinyl chloride composition, or equivalent.

[0202] The half-cores 182 186 of this invention are preferably made prefabricated. They are light and rigid which makes them easy to transport. They are sized to be transported on standard semi-trailers without wide load provisions. It will be understood that some or all of the following items will be installed during prefabrication of the half-cores 182, 186: structural hold downs, platforms 14, an access door 154, an air intake louver 158, a water main connection, a gas main connection, drain pipes 98 and sewer connections, a clothes washer connection 282, a drier connection 306 stove connections 302, a dishwasher connection 294, toilet mechanisms, all faucets 198 and mixing valves, all plumbing and shut off valves, a tankless water heater 106, an outdoor electric meter 30, a subpanel 34, at least one forced air unit, an air conditioner condenser 162, a return air supply duct 86, a air supply duct 82, a phone line connection, a television line connection, a punch block, a signal splitter, a modem, a security panel, a fire suppression unit, sprinkler line and stubs, an in-line exhaust fan 54 with inlet and exhaust duct 50 and control switches, a drier vent 150h, a range hood 194 with remote in-line exhaust fan 54, ducting 50 82 86 and electrical wiring, and a core in-line exhaust fan 54 with thermostatic control.

[0203] Note that in the Figures, directions (N, S, E and W) are shown for ease of reference to the various sides of the invention. These directions do not imply a direction in which this invention faces.

[0204] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view of the front half 10 of the framework. This is how the framework 10 is fabricated in the factory.

[0205] The half-framework 10 is comprised of beams 12v 12h. At least one platform 14 is included, which may comprise one or more gratings 18 slidably positioned on horizontal beams 12h. Brackets 22 may be attached to the ends 16 of the horizontal beams 12h, on the S, E and W sides. Interior panels 110 may be eventually attached to the brackets 22 on the S, E and W sides and an exterior panel 172 may be eventually attached to the N side. See FIG. 24.

[0206] FIG. 2 is a three-dimensional view of the rear half 26 of the framework. This is how the half-framework 26 may be fabricated in the factory. The half-framework 26 is comprised of vertical 12v and horizontal 12h beams. At least one platform 14 is included, which may comprise one or more gratings 18 slidably positioned on horizontal beams 12h. Brackets 22 may be attached to the ends 16 of the horizontal beams 12h, on the S, E and W sides, which leaves protruding portions 12p of the horizontal beams 12h protruding past the vertical beams 12v. Interior panels 110 may be eventually attached to the brackets 22 on the S, E and W sides. See FIG. 24.

[0207] FIG. 3 is an elevational view from the E side, showing how front 10 and rear 26 frameworks may be positioned for installation of the subsystems at the factory.

[0208] FIG. 4 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of the framework 10 with the electrical subsystem installed. This is how the electrical system may be installed on the framework 10 in the factory. Shown are an outdoor electric meter 30, connected to a subpanel 34 by electric wiring (not shown) running through flexible metal conduit 38 Also shown is lifting hook 42 attached to a lifting beam 40, which together comprise the lifting mechanism 44 used to lift the half-framework 10.

[0209] FIG. 5 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of the framework 10 with the exhaust subsystem installed. This is how the exhaust system may be installed on the half-framework 10 in the factory. Shown is exhaust duct 50.

[0210] FIG. 6 is a three-dimensional view of the rear half of the framework 26 with the electrical subsystem installed. This is how the electrical system may be installed on the half-framework 26 in the factory. Shown are another subpanel 34 and a junction box 46 connected together by flexible metal conduit 38. Also shown is the lifting mechanism 44.

[0211] FIG. 7 is a three-dimensional view of the rear half of the framework 26 with the exhaust subsystem installed. This is how the exhaust system may be installed on the half-framework 26 in the factory. Shown is in-line exhaust fan 54 connected to the exhaust duct 50.

[0212] FIG. 8 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of the framework 10 with the gas subsystem installed. This is how the gas system may be installed on the half-framework 10 in the factory. Shown are the gas pipes 58.

[0213] FIG. 9 is a three-dimensional view of the rear half of the framework 26 with the gas subsystem installed. This is how the gas system may be installed on the half-framework 26 in the factory. Shown is gas pipe 58.

[0214] FIG. 10 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of the framework 10 with the air supply subsystem installed. This is how the air supply subsystem may be installed on the half-framework 10 in the factory. Shown are furnace 62, heating coil 66, and furnace vent 64 connected together by a return plenum 70, a first supply plenum 74, and an air supply duct 82. Dotted line arrows show the direction of air flow.

[0215] FIG. 11 is a three-dimensional view of the rear half of the framework 26 with the air supply subsystem installed. This is how the air supply subsystem may be installed on the half-framework 26 in the factory. Shown are second supply plenum 78, third supply plenum 80, air supply ducts 82, and return air supply duct 86 connected together as illustrated. Dotted line arrows show the direction of air flow.

[0216] FIG. 12 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of the framework 10 with the fire suppression subsystem installed. This is how the fire suppression subsystem may be installed on the half-framework 10 in the factory. Shown are the fire suppression drain 90, fire sprinkler riser 94 and distribution pipe 96 connected together as illustrated. Dotted line arrows show the direction of water flow.

[0217] FIG. 13 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of the framework 10 with the drain and sewer subsystem installed. This is how the drain and sewer subsystem may be installed on the half-framework 10 in the factory. Shown are the drain pipes 98, the internal sewer 100, and sewer vent pipe 99 connected together as illustrated.

[0218] FIG. 14 is a three-dimensional view of the rear half of the framework 26 with the sewer subsystem installed. This is how the sewer subsystem may be installed on the half-framework 26 in the factory. Shown are the drain pipes 98, the internal sewer 100, and sewer vent pipe 99 connected together as illustrated.

[0219] FIG. 15 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of the framework 10 with the water subsystem installed. This is how the water subsystem may be installed on the half-framework 10 in the factory. Shown are the cold water influx pipe 102, tankless water heater 106, hot water pipe 103, air inlet 104, and exhaust 108 for combustion gasses. Dotted line arrows show direction of air flow.

[0220] FIG. 16 is a three-dimensional view of the rear half of the framework 26 with the water subsystem installed. This is how the water subsystem may be installed on the half-framework in the factory. Shown is the cold water influx pipe 102 and hot water pipe 103.

[0221] FIG. 17 is a three-dimensional view of the front half of the framework 10 with all the subsystems installed. This is how all the subsystems may be installed on the half-framework 10 in the factory.

[0222] FIG. 18 is a three-dimensional view of the rear half of the framework 26 with all the subsystems installed. This is how all the subsystems may be installed on the half-framework 26 in the factory.

[0223] FIG. 19 is an elevational view of the E side of the front 10 and rear 26 halves of the framework with all subsystems installed, with the front 10 and rear 26 half-frameworks separated but with temporary connection of the subsystems on the two half-cores 182 186, for testing. Indicated are temporarily joined exhaust ducts 50, fire suppression drain 90, cold water influx pipe 102, gas pipe 58, and internal sewer 100. This is how the subsystems may be installed for testing in the factory. As noted earlier, once the two half-cores 182 186 are tested, the temporary connections are cut.

[0224] FIG. 20 is a three-dimensional view of the front 10 and rear 26 half-frameworks joined together with all systems installed.

[0225] FIG. 21 is a three-dimensional view of the front 10 and rear 26 half-frameworks joined together and including the exterior wall 173. For clarity only the half-frameworks 10 26 are shown.

[0226] FIG. 21A is an elevational view from the N (exterior wall) side of the assembly shown in FIG. 21.

[0227] FIG. 22 is a three-dimensional view of the front 10 and rear 26 half-frameworks joined together and partially covered. For clarity the subsystems are not shown.

[0228] FIG. 23 is an elevational view of the E side of the front 182 and rear 186 half-cores separated and covered. The coverings may comprise interior panels 110 mounted on the half-frameworks 10 26. This is how the front 182 and rear 186 half-cores may appear after completion in the factory, and ready for transport to the building site. Also visible are sections of the flexible metal conduit 38, a junction box 46, an LT box 148, a satellite cable conduit 142, and the roof drain 138. Also shown are how the second floor ledger 132 and ceiling ledger 136 are installed on the interior panels 110.

[0229] FIG. 24 is a three-dimensional view of the front 182 and rear 186 half-cores covered and joined. This is how the completed core 174 appears after installation at the building site. Shown are conduit for satellite cable 142, for solar panel feed 146, vent covers 150, interior panel 110, roof 114, exterior wall 173, ledger boards 132 136, security camera 152, air intake louver 158, and drier vent 150h. Several positions for the drier vent 150h are shown. These components may be installed during manufacture of the core, except for roof 114 which is generally installed at the building site.

[0230] FIG. 25 is a three-dimensional view of the bathroom 118 and kitchen 122 joined to the fully assembled, prefabricated core 174. Also illustrated are the roof 114, ground floor 126, ceiling of ground floor/floor of second floor 130, ceiling of second floor 134, access door 154, air intake louver 158, air conditioner condenser 162, city water main 166, internal sewer 100, exterior wall 173, interior panel 110, faucet 198, sink 202, bathtub 204, range hood 194, stove 190. All the illustrated components are installed after the core 174 is installed at the job site.

[0231] FIG. 26 is a three-dimensional cut away view showing aspects of wall construction. Elements illustrated are the second floor ledger 132, ceiling ledger 136, studs 210, the top plate 214, the interior panel 110, the exterior wall 173, the exterior finish 170, the sill 218, and a steel beam 240.

[0232] FIG. 27 is a three-dimensional cut away view showing further aspects of interior panel 110 construction. Elements illustrated are the studs 210, the top plate 214 and the interior facing 226. Persons familiar with the art to which this invention pertains will recognize that this construction is typical for interior wall construction in the United States.

[0233] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view illustrating construction of an exterior panel 172. It comprises an exterior facing 236 fastened to studs 210. Further to the exterior is an exterior finish 170 separated from the exterior facing 236 by an air gap 230.

[0234] FIG. 29 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps of building a house employing a two-piece core 174.

[0235] In step 510 and 520, the two half-frameworks 10 26 are built. They are then placed next to each other and separated by a small distance on a level sill 218, step 530. Preferably steps 510 through 530 are done at a site remote from the site where the house will be built but could be done at the building site.

[0236] In step 540, the subsystems are installed in each half-framework 10 26. Because components of some subsystems are installed in each half-framework 10 26 it may be necessary to make temporary connections across the gap, step 550.

[0237] In step 560, the interior panels 110 are attached to the S, E and W sides of the half-frameworks 10 26 and the exterior wall 173 is attached to the N side of the front half-framework 26. The interior panels 110 and wall 173 can be attached prior to or after the next step but this the preferred timing.

[0238] Subsystems are tested, step 570. After all subsystems pass testing, the temporary connections are disconnected, step 580.

[0239] In step 590 the two half-cores 182, 186 are lifted, tilted and laid on separate flatbed trucks. They are then trucked to the building site, step 600, where they are lifted of the trucks and tilted upright.

[0240] The foundation may be laid at the building site at any point in the prior steps but it must be laid prior to placing the half-cores 182 186 at the building site, step 605.

[0241] The half-cores 182, 186 are placed on the foundation abutting each other with the exterior wall 173 at a location on the foundation that will become the exterior of the house.

[0242] In steps 630 and 640 the half-cores 182 186 are fastened to each other, the half-frameworks 10 26 are attached to the foundation, and components of subsystems in each half are connected to each other as necessary.

[0243] After the core 174 is completed, the building is constructed around the core, wet components (see, for example FIG. 25) are installed in the proper locations on the core, and utilities (electrical, plumbing, etc.) are run from the core to wherever they are needed in the house, step 650. After this construction proceeds as follows.

[0244] Erection of prefabricated wall panels 110 172 for the rest of the house on the foundation. Openings are left between panels 110 172 for placement of doors and windows.

[0245] Construction of upper floor(s) and ceiling, including connecting floor and ceiling joists to the ledger boards 132 136 in known fashion.

[0246] Installation of windows and doors.

[0247] Construction of roofing 114 on the top 56 of the core 174 and prefabricated wall panels 110 172.

[0248] FIG. 29 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps of building a house employing a one-piece core 174.

[0249] In steps 710 and 720, the core framework 8 is built and placed on a level sill 218. Preferably these steps are done at a site remote from the site where the house will be build but could be done at the building site.

[0250] The subsystems are installed in the framework at step 730, and tested at step 740

[0251] In step 750, the interior panels 110 are attached to the S, E and W sides of the frameworks and the exterior wall 173 is attached to the N side.

[0252] In step 760 the core 174 is lifted and laid on a flatbed truck. It is then trucked to the building site, step 770, where it is lifted of the truck, step 780, and placed on the foundation, step 790

[0253] The foundation may be laid at the building site at any point in the prior steps but it must be laid prior to placing the core 174 at the building site, step 705.

[0254] The core 174 is placed on the foundation with the exterior wall 173 at a location on the foundation that will become the exterior of the house.

[0255] In steps 800 the framework 8 of the completed core 174 is fastened to the foundation.

[0256] After the core 174 is installed, the building is constructed around it. Wet components (see, for example FIG. 25) are installed in the proper locations on the interior panels, and utilities (electrical, plumbing, etc.) are run from the core 174 to wherever they are needed in the house, step 810. After this construction proceeds as follows.

[0257] Erection of prefabricated wall panels 110 172 for the rest of the house on the foundation. Openings are left between panels 110 172 for placement of doors and windows.

[0258] Construction of upper floor(s) and ceiling, including connecting floor and ceiling joists to the ledger boards 132 136 in known fashion.

[0259] Installation of windows and doors.

[0260] Construction of roofing 114 on the top 56 of the core 174 and prefabricated wall panels.

[0261] One or Two-Piece Core

[0262] One embodiment of this invention is a core 174 for a building, which has a rectangular prism or cuboid shape. For the purposes of this disclosure, “rectangular prism” will be used interchangeably with “cuboid”. The dictionary definition of “cuboid” is a “rectangular parallelepiped”, which is a box shape. For convenience the sides of the core 174 will be designated throughout this document as N, E, S and W. In no way does this imply the direction in which this invention faces. Preferably the core 174 is built on a framework 8 of vertical 12v and horizontal 12h beams connected to each other as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. Portions 12p of the horizontal beams 12h protrude past the vertical beams 12v.

[0263] Building subsystems are attached inside of the framework 8. Some of these subsystems are provided with connections for connecting with city services, such as water, gas, sewer, phone, cable and electricity.

[0264] An interior panel 110 is attached to the E, S and W sides and an exterior wall 173 is attached to the N side. For the purposes of this application an interior panel 110 is one that is suitable for installation in the interior of a building and an exterior panel 172 is one that is suitable for installation on the exterior of a building. The major difference between these panels is that the exterior panel 172 is constructed to withstand the elements whereas an interior panel 110 does not have to be. Persons familiar with the art to which this invention pertains will know the difference in such panels.

[0265] The framework 8 may be in two halves: a front half-framework 10 and a rear half-framework 26. The front half-framework 10 includes a front E half-side, a front W half-side and the N side and the rear half-framework 26 includes a rear E half-side, a rear W half-side and the S side. The front S side of the front half-framework 10 and the rear N side of the rear half-framework 26 are open.

[0266] Two-Piece Core

[0267] A second embodiment of this invention is a core 174 for a building which has a cuboid front half-framework 10, and a cuboid rear half-framework 26. The front half-framework 10 has a front top 56a, front E and W half-sides, and front N and S sides, with the front S side being left open. The rear half-framework 26 has a rear top 56b, rear E and W half-sides, and rear N and S sides, with the rear N side being open. Note that the designations N, E, S, and W are for convenience, and do not imply the direction in which the invention faces. Preferably the half-frameworks 10 26 are made of vertical 12v and horizontal beams connected to each other as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. Portions 12p of the horizontal beams 12h protrude past the vertical beams 12v. Lifting mechanisms 44, comprising a lifting beam 40 and lifting hook 42 are attached to the front top 56a and the rear top 56b.

[0268] Building subsystems are attached inside the front 10 and rear 26 half-frameworks. Some of these subsystems are provided with connections for connecting with city services, such as water, gas, sewer, phone, cable and electricity.

[0269] An interior panel 110 is attached to the front E and W half-sides, the rear E and W half-sides, and the rear S side, and an exterior wall 173 is attached to the front N side.

[0270] Method of Fabricating a One-Piece Core

[0271] This invention further describes a method of constructing a core 174 for a building, which includes the steps of:

[0272] connecting vertical 12v and horizontal 12h beams to form a framework 8 of cuboid shape having a top, and N, E, S and W sides with portions 12p of the horizontal beams 12h protruding past the vertical beams 12v;

[0273] attaching a lifting mechanism 44 to the top;

[0274] attaching a number of building subsystems inside of the framework 8;

[0275] some of the subsystems being provided with connections for connecting with city services;

[0276] attaching an interior panel 110 to the E, S and W sides;

[0277] and

[0278] attaching an exterior wall 173 to the N side.

[0279] The method may further include the steps of:

[0280] pouring a foundation at a building site;

[0281] constructing the core 174 at a location remote from the building site:

[0282] lifting the core 174 with the lifting mechanism 44;

[0283] placing the core 174 on a vehicle;

[0284] transporting the core 174 to the building site on the vehicle; and

[0285] placing the core 174 on the foundation so that the exterior wall 173 is at an exterior of the building.

[0286] Method of Fabricating a Two-Piece Core

[0287] An embodiment of this invention describes a method of constructing a core 174 for a building, which includes the steps of:

[0288] connecting a set of vertical 12v and horizontal 12h beams to form a front half-framework 10 of cuboid shape, as shown on FIG. 1 and with portions 12p of the horizontal beams 12h protruding past the vertical beams 12v;

[0289] connecting a set of vertical 12v and horizontal 12h beams to form a rear half-framework 26 of cuboid shape, with portions 12p of the horizontal beams 12h protruding past the vertical beams 12v;

[0290] attaching lifting mechanisms 44 to the tops 56a 56b of the front 10 and rear 26 half-frameworks;

[0291] attaching building subsystems inside the front 10 and rear 26 half-frameworks 10, 26 some of the subsystems being provided with connections for connecting with city services; components of some subsystems being installed in both half-frameworks 10 26;

[0292] attaching interior panels 110 to the E and W sides of the front half-framework 10 and the E and W and S sides of the rear half-framework 26; and

[0293] attaching an exterior wall 173 to the N side of the front half-framework 10.

[0294] This produces a front half-core 182 and a rear half-core 186.

[0295] This method may further include the steps of:

[0296] pouring a foundation at a building site;

[0297] providing a level location remote from the building site;

[0298] constructing the front 182 and rear 186 half-cores adjacent each other on the level location;

[0299] testing one or more building subsystems as appropriate;

[0300] lifting the half-cores 182 186 with their respective lifting mechanisms 44;

[0301] placing the front half-core 182 on a first vehicle;

[0302] placing the half-core 186 on a second vehicle;

[0303] transporting the half-cores 182, 186 to the building site; and

[0304] placing the half-cores 182, 186 on the foundation with the S wall of the front half-core 182 abutting the N wall of the rear half-core 186 and the exterior panel 72 at the exterior of the building.

[0305] Variations on the Above Listed Apparati and Methods

[0306] Brackets 22 may be attached to the protruding portions 12p.

[0307] The interior panels 110 may be constructed by attaching studs 210 to interior facings 226. Then the studs 210 of the interior panels 110 may be attached to the brackets 22 on the E and W sides of the front framework 10 and the E and W and S sides of the rear half-framework 26. The exterior panel 172 may be constructed by attaching studs 210 to exterior facings 236. Then the studs 210 of the exterior panel 172 may be attached to the brackets 22 of the N. The studs 210 and facings 236, 226 may be wooden.

[0308] A second floor ledger 132 may be attached through the interior facings 226 and into the studs 210 on the S, E and W sides at a level to support a floor. A ceiling ledger 136 may be attached through the interior facings 226 and into the studs 210 on the S, E and W sides at a level to support a ceiling 130 134.

[0309] City services include water, gas, sewer, phone, cable and electricity.

[0310] Preferably, the subsystems are: an electrical subsystem (FIGS. 4,6); an exhaust subsystem (FIGS. 5, 7); a gas subsystem (FIGS. 8, 9); an air supply subsystem (FIGS. 10, 11); a fire suppression subsystem; a phone subsystem; a lighting subsystem; a sewer subsystem (FIGS. 13, 14); and a water subsystem (FIGS. 15, 16). The subsystems may further include: a TV distribution subsystem; a Wi-Fi subsystem; and a water softening subsystem.

[0311] The electrical subsystem components may include: an outdoor electric meter 30, connected to subpanels 34, junction boxes 46, and LT boxes 148 by electric wiring (not shown) running through flexible metal conduit 38.

[0312] The exhaust subsystem may include an in-line exhaust fan 54 and interconnecting ducting 51.

[0313] The gas subsystem may include interconnecting gas pipes 58 with stubs NR at the ends for connecting the various gas powered appliances.

[0314] The air supply subsystem may include: a furnace 62; a heating coil 66; a return plenum 70; three supply plenums 74 78 80; an air supply duct 82; and an return air supply duct 86 connected together as illustrated on FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0315] The fire suppression subsystem may include: a fire sprinkler riser 94 connected to connect to a city water main; and a fire suppression drain 90 and distribution pipe 96 connected to the fire sprinkler riser 94. Dotted line arrows show the direction of water flow.

[0316] The phone subsystem may include: a punch block for connection to a city phone service; a wire connected to the punch block, and adapted to connect to a telephone.

[0317] The lighting subsystem may include: an internet protocol lighting control panel electrically connected to a subpanel 34.

[0318] The sewer subsystem may include: drain pipes 98, sewer lines 100, and sewer vent pipes 99 connected together as illustrated. The drain lines are adapted for attachment to a sink, toilet, shower and tub 204. The drain pipes 98 are connected to the internal sewer 100.

[0319] The water subsystem may include: incoming cold water influx pipe 102, tankless water heater 106, hot water pipe 103, air inlet 104, and exhaust 108 for combustion gasses. Dotted line arrows show direction of air flow.

[0320] The incoming cold water influx pipe 102, adapted at its front end to connect to a city water main 166, is split into a number of branches and is adapted the ends of the branches to connect to a cold water appliance such as faucets, toilets, etc. A tankless water heater 106 is also connected to the cold water influx pipe 102 at its inlet and a hot water pipe 103 at its outlet. The hot water pipe 103 is also split into a number of branches and is adapted the ends of the branches to connect to hot water appliance such as faucets, shower heads, etc.

[0321] The TV distribution subsystem may include a coax to a TV antenna, satellite dish or a city cable TV service.

[0322] The Wi-Fi subsystem may include a wireless modem connected to a city internet service.

[0323] The water softening subsystem may include a water softener connected in the water influx pipe 102.

[0324] Procedures after Fabrication of Core

[0325] The foundation, with sewer connections incorporated in it is poured on the job site. Then the core 174 is delivered and placed in its proper place on the foundation and secured with the structural hold downs. Construction then proceeds as follows.

[0326] Erection of prefabricated wall panels 110 172 for the rest of the house on the foundation. Openings are left in the framing for placement of doors and windows.

[0327] Construction of upper floor(s) and ceiling, including connecting floor and ceiling joists to the ledger boards 132 136 in known fashion.

[0328] Installation of windows and doors.

[0329] Construction of roofing 114 on the top 56 of the framing.

[0330] Running electrical wiring from subpanel 34.

[0331] Running alarm system wiring from alarm panel.

[0332] Running of phone system wiring from punch block.

[0333] Installation of local area network LAN wiring from modem.

[0334] Installation of insulation in exterior walls 173 and attic.

[0335] Attachment of drywall to interior panels 114.

[0336] Installation of underlayment for floors 126 130.

[0337] Installation of trim

[0338] Painting.

[0339] Installation of finish electrical, such as switches and lights.

[0340] Installation of finish alarm system.

[0341] Installation of LAN and phone system jacks and cover plates.

[0342] Installation of all sinks 202.

[0343] Installation of bathroom and kitchen counters and cabinets

[0344] Installation of faucet décor and toilet bowls.

[0345] Installation of carpet and other flooring.

[0346] Hookup to water main or well.

[0347] Hookup to sewer or septic system

[0348] Correction of problems.

[0349] It will be understood from the above descriptions that in a house constructed with the core of this invention, the bathrooms, kitchen and laundry room are located next to the outside of an interior panel 172.

[0350] The following reference numerals are used on FIG. 1 through . . . : [0351] 8 Complete framework [0352] 10 Front half-framework [0353] 12h Horizontal beam [0354] 12v Vertical beam [0355] 12p Protruding portion of horizontal beam. [0356] 14 Platform [0357] 16 End of horizontal beam [0358] 18 Grating [0359] 22 Bracket [0360] 26 Rear half framework [0361] 30 Outdoor electric meter [0362] 34 Subpanel [0363] 38 Flexible metal conduit [0364] 40 Lifting beam [0365] 42 Lifting hook [0366] 44 lifting mechanism [0367] 46 Junction box [0368] 50 Exhaust duct [0369] 51 Interconnecting ducting [0370] 52 Bathroom, laundry and kitchen hood vents [0371] 54 In-line exhaust fan [0372] 56 Top of core [0373] 56a Top of front half of core [0374] 56b Top of rear half of core [0375] 58 Gas pipe [0376] 62 Furnace [0377] 64 Furnace vent [0378] 66 Heating coil [0379] 70 Return plenum [0380] 74 First supply plenum [0381] 78 Second supply plenum [0382] 80 Third supply plenum [0383] 82 Air supply duct [0384] 86 Return air supply duct [0385] 90 Fire suppression drain [0386] 94 Fire sprinkler riser [0387] 96 Distribution pipe [0388] 98 Drain pipe [0389] 99 Sewer vent pipe [0390] 100 Internal sewer [0391] 101 Drain connection for connection to e.g. toilet or sink drain. [0392] 102 Cold water influx pipe [0393] 103 Hot water pipe [0394] 104 Air inlet [0395] 106 Tankless water heater [0396] 108 Combustion gas exhaust [0397] 110 Interior panel [0398] 114 Roof [0399] 118 Bathroom [0400] 122 Kitchen [0401] 126 Ground floor [0402] 130 Ceiling of ground floor/floor of second floor [0403] 132 Second floor ledger board [0404] 134 Ceiling of second floor [0405] 136 Ceiling ledger board [0406] 138 Roof drain [0407] 142 Conduit for satellite cable [0408] 146 Conduit for solar panel feed [0409] 148 LT (find better definition) box [0410] 150 Vent covers [0411] 150a Bathroom [0412] 150b Sewer [0413] 150d Furnace [0414] 150e Kitchen hood [0415] 150g Water heater [0416] 150h Drier vent (several potential positions shown) [0417] 152 Security camera [0418] 154 Core access door [0419] 156 Roof drain [0420] 158 Air intake louver [0421] 162 Air conditioner condenser [0422] 166 City water main [0423] 170 Exterior finish [0424] 172 Exterior panel [0425] 173 Exterior wall [0426] 174 Fully assembled, prefabricated core. [0427] 178 Midline of fully assembled, prefabricated core [0428] 182 Front half of fully assembled, prefabricated core, or front half-core. [0429] 186 Rear half of fully assembled, prefabricated core, or rear half-core. [0430] 190 Stove [0431] 194 Range hood [0432] 198 Faucet [0433] 202 Sink [0434] 204 Bathtub [0435] 210 Stud [0436] 214 Top plate [0437] 218 Sill [0438] 222 Level surface [0439] 226 Interior panel facing [0440] 230 Air gap [0441] 236 Exterior panel facing [0442] 240 Steel beam [0443] 244 Mirror backing [0444] 248 Vanity backing [0445] 252 Roof drain outlet [0446] 256 Motion sensor light connection [0447] 260 Roof drain overflow [0448] 266 Upper cabinet backing [0449] 270 Lower cabinet backing [0450] 274 Vanity faucet connection [0451] 278 Toilet flush plate [0452] 282 Water box (hot and cold water connection plus drain) for washing machine. [0453] 286 Hot and cold water connections for kitchen faucet [0454] 290 Cold water connection for refrigerator [0455] 294 Hot water connection for dishwasher [0456] 298 Access for remote high and low voltage electrical connections [0457] 302 Gas supply for stove [0458] 306 Gas supply for dryer [0459] 310 Toilet drain [0460] 314 Toilet water supply [0461] 318 Bathtub hot and cold water connection [0462] 322 Shower/bathtub control valve [0463] 326 Shower head connection.

[0464] A preferred material for the half-framework is Unistrut™ by Alkore International.

[0465] The preferred water heater is TAKAGI Condensing High Efficiency Gas Tankless Water Heater T-H3 S-DV-N (Indoor)

[0466] The preferred water pipes are UPONOR ¾″ & ½″ AquaPEX Tubing

[0467] The preferred coil is ASPEN CASED MULTI-POSITION COIL CE60F34210L004

[0468] The preferred heater is GOODMAN SINGLE-STAGE, MULTI-SPEED GAS FURNACE GMSS961005CN

[0469] The preferred fans are S&P In-line exhaust fan, TD-Mixedvent TD-100

[0470] The preferred electrical panels are from SIEMENS

[0471] The preferred junction and pull boxes are WIRE GUARD SYSTEM Junction & Pull Box 667K Type1

[0472] The preferred electrical boxes are UMI Electrical Box

[0473] The preferred electrical meter is SIEMENS Outdoor Electrical Meter

[0474] The preferred electrical conduit is flexible metal conduit

[0475] The preferred . . . is RESI-RISER Compact Pre-Assembled Test & Drain Assembly

[0476] The preferred sewer and drain pipes are MUELLER INDUSTRIES ABS DWV Pipes

[0477] The preferred sewer and drain fittings are MUELLER INDUSTRIES ABS DWV Fittings

[0478] Thus, the present invention has been described herein with reference to a particular embodiment for a particular application. Those having ordinary skill in the art and access to the present teachings will recognize additional modifications, applications and embodiments within the scope thereof

[0479] It is therefore intended by the appended claims to cover any and all such applications, modifications and embodiments within the scope of the present invention.