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Storm shelter with integrally formed seamless baseStorm shelter with integrally formed seamless base description/claimsThe Patent Description & Claims data below is from USPTO Patent Application 20060032154, Storm shelter with integrally formed seamless base. Brief Patent Description - Full Patent Description - Patent Application Claims
FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of prefabricated storm shelters. In particular, the invention relates to a storm shelter comprised of a base section and a cover wherein the base is primarily located underground. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention comprises an underground storm shelter for use by individuals during severe weather. The storm shelter is comprised of a seamless integrally formed base positioned substantially below ground, a cover secured to the base, and a door operatively connected to the cover. The cover defines an entry way and the door is positioned to protect the entryway. [0003] The base may be formed of molded plastic by a rotational molding process and is single walled. In addition, the base may be formed so that it comprises seating. In an alternative embodiment, the base is formed of fiberglass. [0004] The cover may be formed of impervious material, such as steel plating. The cover comprises a flange, also formed of steel, connected to the perimeter of the entryway. The cover is secured to the base by an adhesive material. Alternatively, the cover may be secured to the base by a nut and bolt assembly. [0005] The door is operatively connected to the cover by a hinge mechanism so the door is movable between an open position and a closed position such that in the open position the door extends outward from the shelter and in the closed position the door covers the entryway. Further, the storm shelter comprises a latch adapted to secure the door in the closed position. The door is supported by means of a gas spring assembly: In another embodiment, the door may be operatively connected to the cover by a track and roller system such that it slides between an open and closed position. [0006] In an alternative embodiment, the invention further comprises a ventilation system adapted to supply fresh air to the storm shelter. Preferably, the ventilation system comprises a covered roof louver. In an alternative embodiment, the ventilation system is comprised of a 180.degree. elbow shaped pipe, protruding externally from the cover, attached to the cover so a first opening of the pipe faces toward the cover and a second opening of the pipe opens into the storm shelter. [0007] In another aspect, the invention comprises a ladder operatively connected to the cover. Preferably, the ladder is rigidly affixed to the cover and connected to the cover by two chains so that it suspends downward at an angle relative to the cover into the storm shelter. The ladder is made of steel. [0008] In another aspect, the invention further comprises an anchor system operatively connected to the cover. The anchor system may be comprised of a plurality of anchors embedded into the ground around a perimeter of the shelter. The anchors are secured to the cover at a plurality of anchor rings. Preferably, the anchors are in the shape of an auger. The anchors are connected to the anchor rings by steel bands. Alternatively, the anchors are connected to the anchor rings by steel cables. [0009] Alternatively, the anchor system comprises an anchor formed from a single plate positioned below ground and proximate to a lower portion of the base. The anchor is secured to the cover by a plurality of anchor rings. The anchor is connected to the anchor rings by steel rods secured by a nut and bolt assemblies. Alternatively, the anchor may be connected to the anchor rings by steel cables in place of the steel rods. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0010] FIG. 1 is a cross sectional view of the storm shelter built in accordance with the present invention. [0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective partial, cut-away diagram of the base of the storm shelter with integrated seating. [0012] FIG. 3A is a partial cut-away and cross section of a hinged door assembly. [0013] FIG. 3B is a partial cut-away and cross section of a track and roller door assembly. [0014] FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment for a storm shelter in accordance with the present invention. [0015] FIG. 5 is a top view of a single plate anchor. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [0016] Turning now to the drawings in general and FIG. 1 in particular, there is shown a storm shelter, designated by reference numeral 10, in accordance with the present invention. The storm shelter 10 generally comprises base 20, a cover 100, a door 200, an anchor system 300, a ladder 400, and a ventilation system 500. [0017] As depicted in FIG. 1, the base 20 has a top end 22 and is situated primarily underground with the top end proximate to the surface of the ground. The base 20 serves as the location of shelter during a storm or tornado. Preferably the only opening from the base 20 is proximate the top end 22. Preferably the dimensions of the base 20 are 66'' in diameter and 58'' in height. This proportion will allow for the comfortable occupancy of up to two adults and three children. Alternatively the size of the base 20 may be adapted to increase or decrease occupancy. [0018] Preferably the base 20 is formed so that it has integrated seating 24. (See FIG. 2). More preferably the integrated seating 24 is proximate a lower portion 26 of the base. Preferably the diameter of the bottom 30 of the base 20 is less than the diameter of the side 28 to allow for the integrated seating 24. Alternatively the base 20 may be formed without integrated seating 24. [0019] In the preferred embodiment, the base 20 is in the shape of a cylinder. Alternatively the base 20 may be the shape of a cube with or without integrated seating. One skilled in the art will recognize other shapes the base may take including a rectangle or sphere. Preferably the interior of the base 20 includes an electric light. Such light could be supplied by affixing a battery operated light to the interior side of the installed cover 100, yet to be described. [0020] The base 20 is formed of polyethylene plastic by a rotational molding process. Preferably the sides 28 and bottom 30 are single walled and seamless. Alternatively the base 20 may be formed of other materials including steel, concrete, fiberglass, or PVC plastic so long as the base can be constructed without any seams. Continue reading about Storm shelter with integrally formed seamless base... Full patent description for Storm shelter with integrally formed seamless base Brief Patent Description - Full Patent Description - Patent Application Claims Click on the above for other options relating to this Storm shelter with integrally formed seamless base patent application. ###  How KEYWORD MONITOR works... a FREE service from FreshPatents1. Sign up (takes 30 seconds). 2. Fill in the keywords to be monitored. 3. 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