MODULAR ENVIRONMENTAL ASSEMBLY

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of an earlier filing date and right of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/719,905, filed 13 Nov. 2024, the contents of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present application relates generally to landscaping and architecture, and more specifically, the present invention is a method of constructing different environments using modular units veneered with natural elements.

2. Description of Related Art

For centuries, humans have reimagined natural environments to reflect cultural identity, personal taste, and social function. From ornate Moorish gardens to mid-century American patios, outdoor spaces have served as extensions of the home—offering places for rest, gathering, and creative expression. Today, demand for outdoor living spaces continues to grow as people seek beauty, relaxation, and value in their immediate surroundings.

Yet despite advances in architecture and design, transforming a yard into a refined space often remains slow, expensive, and exclusive. Homeowners and independent contractors face a complex landscape where achieving elegant, functional outdoor environments frequently requires specialized skills, extensive planning, and high costs that make premium design inaccessible to many.

Outdoor construction projects typically require multi-trade collaboration: plumbing for water features, electrical routing for lighting, structural framing, and precise masonry or finish work. Each component introduces delays, coordination challenges, and material waste. Skilled labor is scarce and costly, and inclement weather can disrupt progress or compromise quality.

The lack of prefabricated or modular systems in this space means most design elements are custom-built from raw materials. That results in longer lead times, high project costs, and limited repeatability for small-scale businesses. DIY users are nearly excluded entirely, while even professionals struggle to scale with efficiency or maintain consistency across jobs.

Although strides have been made, shortcomings remain. It is desired that an assembly be developed to provide a method of constructing different environments using modular units overlayed with all natural elements.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present application to a modular environmental assembly to serve as a structure for the creation and installation of landscaping. It is a further object of the present application to provide a method of installation of said assemblies.

The present invention delivers a modular, scalable backyard environment assembly that transforms outdoor spaces through precision-engineered components and seamless integration. The assembly is designed for efficient, high-volume manufacturing while retaining the flexibility for custom installation, whether by professionals or DIYers. Its core lies in durable, lightweight polystyrene bases formed from reverse molds and enhanced with CNC-cut channels for plumbing, wiring, and lighting. These bases are supported by mass-produced steel frames, stamped and welded for strength, then powder-coated or galvanized for longevity.

Precut natural stone overlays, bonded with industrial-grade adhesives, provide a high-end aesthetic without the complexity of traditional masonry. Embedded plumbing and electrical systems streamline installation, while integrated drainage and curing processes ensure long-term durability. The assembly simplifies the creation of premium backyard environments by merging traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing.

Ultimately the invention may take many embodiments. In these ways, the present invention overcomes the disadvantages inherent in the prior art. The more important features have thus been outlined in order that the more detailed description that follows may be better understood and to ensure that the present contribution to the art is appreciated. Additional features will be described hereinafter and will form the subject matter of the claims that follow.

Many objects of the present application will appear from the following description and appended claims, reference being made to the accompanying drawings forming a part of this specification wherein like reference characters designate corresponding parts in the several views.

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the present invention in detail, it is to be understood that the embodiments are not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The embodiments are capable of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception, upon which this disclosure is based, may readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out the various purposes of the present design. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present application.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the application are set forth in the appended claims. However, the application itself, as well as a preferred mode of use, and further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a modular environmental assembly according to an embodiment of the present application.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a wall structure used in the modular environmental assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a Perspective view having of the wall structure of FIG. 2 plumbing channels and plumbing pipes

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a base frame in the modular environmental assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the wall structure of FIG. 2 with preparation for stone cladding.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the modular environmental assembly of FIG. 1 located on a base pan.

FIG. 7 is a chart illustrating steps of manufacturing the modular environmental assembly of FIGS. 1-6.

While the embodiments and method of the present application is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the description herein of specific embodiments is not intended to limit the application to the particular embodiment disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the process of the present application as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Illustrative embodiments of the preferred embodiment are described below. In the interest of clarity, not all features of an actual implementation are described in this specification. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any such actual embodiment, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

In the specification, reference may be made to the spatial relationships between various components and to the spatial orientation of various aspects of components as the devices are depicted in the attached drawings. However, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art after a complete reading of the present application, the devices, members, apparatuses, etc. described herein may be positioned in any desired orientation. Thus, the use of terms to describe a spatial relationship between various components or to describe the spatial orientation of aspects of such components should be understood to describe a relative relationship between the components or a spatial orientation of aspects of such components, respectively, as the embodiments described herein may be oriented in any desired direction.

The embodiments and method will be understood, both as to its structure and operation, from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanying description. Several embodiments of the assembly may be presented herein. It should be understood that various components, parts, and features of the different embodiments may be combined together and/or interchanged with one another, all of which are within the scope of the present application, even though not all variations and particular embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should also be understood that the mixing and matching of features, elements, and/or functions between various embodiments is expressly contemplated herein so that one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate from this disclosure that the features, elements, and/or functions of one embodiment may be incorporated into another embodiment as appropriate, unless otherwise described.

The present invention creates different environments using modular units veneered with natural elements. A design is composed, the reversed molds are created to conform to the unit that are veneered with natural materials. Additional elements may be included, such as heaters like heat, special lighting, and irrigation. The components in the overall structure include polystyrene, steel adhesives, irrigation, and heating. Once adorned, the units have multiple ways to connect to each other's epoxies, concrete products, and steel frames. The present invention is a reverse mold process with all natural stone structures, waterfalls, walls, bridges, and fountains. The present invention is a completely portable unit that is blended onsite with natural stone.

Referring now to the Figures wherein like reference characters identify corresponding or similar elements in form and function throughout the several views. The following Figures describe embodiments of the present application and its associated features. With reference now to the Figures, embodiments of the present application are herein described. It should be noted that the articles “a”, “an”, and “the”, as used in this specification, include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

Referring now to FIG. 1 in the drawings, a Modular environmental assembly 101 is provided. Assembly 101 is a pre-manufactured modular solution for creating backyard or landscaping environments. These environments are suitable for professional and do-it-yourself installation projects. Assembly 101 is configured to be efficiently produced so as to be adaptable to a variety of designs so as to meet the needs of backyard enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Assembly 101 may include a wall structure 103 secured to a steel frame 105 (see FIG. 4 of the drawings), and a base pan 107 (see FIG. 6 of the drawings). It should be noted that wall structure 103 may include various different elements that are formed in different orientations, thicknesses, shapes, and forms bonded together or coupled together in a way to facilitate the construction of the desired designs. The term “wall” should not be limiting in that structure 103 may only be vertically oriented. Structure 103 may be incorporated in any orientation in assembly 101.

As seen in figure one of the drawings, wall structure 103 are illustrated along the sides of assembly 101 so as to permit the flow of water there between. It is understood that additional structures 103 may be located in between the visible wall structures so as to support the flow of water.

Referring now also to FIG. 2 of the drawings, an exemplary wall structure 103 is provided. Wall structure 103 is formed from one or more elements that may be adhered or bonded together to facilitate the formation of a particular shape or form. Ideally wall structures 103 are polystyrene elements that are mass produced from reversed molds. Foam is injected into the molds to form design specific forms for repeatable modular shapes. It is understood that the steps of making structures 103 may include the trimming indoor adjustment of edges and surfaces to provide the desired look.

Referring now also to FIG. 3 in the drawings is a section of structure 103 illustrating the ability to incorporate internal channels 109 and routing 111 therein. In order to physical facilitate the function of lighting and water, selected passageways need to be formed within structures 103 so as to route different types of lines. As seen in FIG. 3, structure 103 is formed to include internal channels 109 which are then filled with routing 111. It is understood that the term routing may include plumbing lines, electrical lines, or any other types of ducting and so forth. A CNC hotwire may be utilized to cut into the polystyrene base structures of structure is 103. These are typically performed post molding to ensure that the channels 109 are fully aligned and integrated. Other methods of creating channels 109 may be utilized.

Referring now also to FIG. 4 of the drawings, a steel frame 105 is illustrated. Frame 105 is configured to be a stable base structure utilized to support structures 103 and the various elements found within the overall assembly 101. It is understood that frames 105 may be massed produced via various methods such as stamping and welding in automated processes. The precise shape and angles of frame 105 are adjusted to fit the current design selected for the projects. Structure 103, as well as routing 111, may be selectively coupled to portions of frame 105.

Referring now also to FIG. 5 of the drawings, external treatments 112 are applied to structures 103. Assembly 101 is configured to receive natural stone or other natural elements that are selectively adhered to or bonded to external surfaces. Structure 103 may be pre prepped for an external treatment which may include veneer, brick or other natural elements that are applied along an external surface. The surface of structures 103 are scored 110 to provide a suitable bonding surface. The external treatments may be applied as an overlay and formed as pre-cut pieces from a factory for onsite application during construction.

Referring now also to FIG. 6 in the drawings, a base pan 107 is illustrated. Pan 107 is configured to integrate along a lower portion of assembly 101 for the capture and controlled management of Pan 107 maybe stamped moisture. Were formed from known manufacturing processes During installation, pan 107 is located in its position and leveled to facilitate proper drainage channels to manage any water leaks or overflow effectively that may be used through water features of the present design. Pan 107 may include a drainage port 113 to allow for moisture to escape. Pan 107 is configured to over manage overflow or leakage thereby routing excess water safely into connected pools or pond systems via port 113.

Referring now also to FIG. 7 in the drawings, a chart illustrating a method of construction of assembly 101 as provided. Upon finalization of the design for assembly 101, wall structures 103 are formed. As noted previously these are reverse molded polystyrene forms. That create the structural core of each unit These are lightweight and allow for repeated productions of complex shapes and the ability to integrate various channels 109. Frames 105 are formed via selected manufacturing processes and may be treated to resist corrosion and harmful environmental conditions with treatments such as powder coating finishes. Frames 107 are assembled and located in the environment for assembly with structures 103. Passages are created for the routing of plumbing and other lines through structures 103 prior to installation. It is understood that additional passageways may be formed after portions of installation if necessary.

During assembly of assembly 101, frame 105 is softly located in relation to pan 107. Structure is 103 are thereby assembled onto frame 105 and over portions of pan 107. Outer surfaces of structures 107 may be scored to facilitate the adhesion of external treatments 112. Any external treatments are applied to the surfaces and routing 111 is inserted and hooked up within assembly 101 to facilitate the functions of various different systems such as water systems, heating systems, and lighting systems for example.

It is understood that the inclusion and formation of much of assembly 101 within the factory allows for do-it-yourself projects to be completed as only simple construction steps are needed. Furthermore, it is understood that external features that may include plumbing and electrical systems can be embedded during assembly with lighting components inserted robotically.

The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the application may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. It is therefore evident that the particular embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified, and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the application. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forth in the description. It is apparent that an application with significant advantages has been described and illustrated. Although the present application is shown in a limited number of forms, it is not limited to just these forms, but is amenable to various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit thereof.