A need exists in the building industry for prefabricated building structures which may be erected quickly with minimal site preparation by people with relatively little job skills. Such structures should be able to withstand the natural elements, provide a large degree of usable interior space and be aesthetically pleasing to the eye. Prefabrication of building components can assure quality and standardization of parts by providing a factory controlled environment for production. Production losses due to adverse weather conditions can be minimized. Greatly increased efficiency results and aids in the reduction of construction costs.
The prefabricated building structure of the present invention uses a polygonal or "round" design. The "round" configuration of the present invention provides numerous advantages. One such advantage is that of providing a specified amount of interior floor space within less outside wall space (perimeter feet) than a comparable square or rectangular building, because the circumference of a circle is less than the perimeter of a rectangle for a given area. For example, a round building with 1000 square feet has approximately 112 perimeter feet. A rectangular building with 1000 square feet could be 20'.times.50' having a perimeter of 140 feet. Since heat loss is directly proportional to the number of perimeter feet (outside wall space), heat loss in the present invention is greatly reduced. Other advantages include minimized interior obstructions and increased outside wall strength inherent to a curved or arch segment.
The structure of the present invention is extremely flexible as to usage because of the minimized interior obstructions. The structure has only one interior central support column. The finished structure may have residential, commercial, recreational, or educational use. The structure may be totally enclosed or partially opened. Walls may be constructed from conventional building materials or may utilize large expanses of glass or solar type glass panels.
The roof and floor components of the invention utilize smaller lumber sizes than conventional construction which has the effect of utilizing random lumber lengths, thus conserving lumber and reducing material costs. Further, the roof and floor components possess a triangle-shape symmetry which enables them to be easily stacked or nested for storage and shipment.
The vertically adjustable perimeter columns of the present invention allow for minimal site preparation on uneven terrain. Conventional poured footings, foundations and masonry walls are all eliminated. Reduced construction time and reduced costs are a result.
The building structure of the present invention requires no skilled masons, concrete finishers, or carpenters for construction. The structure may be constructed, using six men with minimal labor skills, in approximately eight hours.