Improvements in or Appertaining to Portable Houses.
Year: 1887

page_text: This Specification was, upon the 11th day of April 1888, amended under Sections
18 to 21 of the Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks Act, 1883.
[Communicated from abroad by WILLIAM MATHEW DUCKER, of the City, County, and
State of New York, United States of America, Manufacturer.]
Improvements in or Appertaining to Portable Houses.
1, WILLIAM PHILLIPS THOMPSON F.C.S. of the Agency for Foreign Patent Solicitors
6 Lord Street, Liverpool in the County of Lancaster and 323, High Holborn, in the
County of Middlesex, Civil Engineer, do hereby declare the nature of this invention
and in what manner the same is to be performed, to be particularly described and
ascertained in and by the following statement :-
This invention relates to a structure which may be conveniently furnished with
articles required for use in a baraque, field hospital, etcetera, such as beds, tables,
chairs, etcetera, without adding to the space which it will take up when packed for
transportation, which can be quickly set up and taken down by workmen of ordinary
skill, which is so light that it may be easily transported in a convenient vehicle, readily
adjusted to inequalities of the ground, which is protected against fire, may be con-
veniently heated and ventilated, and constructed cheaply.
Figure 1 is an interior elevation through the structure, about the middle.
Figure 2 is a view of one end of the structure from within, the under-floor shaft A
shown in section.
Figures 3 to 7 are views of the dovetail locking devices by which the parts are
secured together when the structure is put up.
Figures 8 and 9 are perspective views of the shed roofs of the annexes.
Figure 10 is an elevation of the structure from without.
Figure 11 is an end view of the shaft A.
Figure 12 is a side view of one of the door sills.
Figure 13 is a floor plan of the structure.

page_text: Figure 14 is a section of the Hoor on the line, of Figure 13.
Figures 15 and 16 are side views of the meeting ends of the sections of shaft A.
Figure 17 is an end view of one of the meeting ends of the sections of shaft A.
Figure 18 is a detail view of the roof section from within.
Figure 19 is a similar view of one of the sloping end sections.
Figure 20 is a similar view of one of the door sections.
Figure 21 is a side view of the lintel.
Figure 22 is a view of the end of the ridge pole, showing the key pieces attached
for adjustment to the parts G, G.
Figures 23 shows a side and a section of the ridge pole.
Figure 24 is a perspective view of one of the rafters.
Figure 25 is a view of the side of the annex R, with the hinged door caught back,
ready for transportation.
Figure 26 is a section on the line x, x, of Figure 20.
Figure 27 is a portion of one of the side sections B, showing arrangement for
attaching it to the end section F.
Figures 28 shows the joining ends, in section, of the parts of the ridge pole.
Figure 29 is an enlarged view of one of the side sections B, C, showing the furniture
arranged for transportation.
Figure 30 is a section on the line. a, a, of Figure 29.
Figure 31 is an edge view of a part of the tray C, partly in section.
Figure 32 is a view of the tray B, showing the bed lowered to its position for use.
Figure 33 is a section of the lower ends of the trays B, C, showing the extension
feet m³.
Similar letters of reference indicate like parts in all the drawings.
The structure consists essentially of a central support or under-floor shaft, floor,
sides, ends, roof, heating annex and earth closet annex, and it may be furnished with
beds, tables, chairs, etcetera.
It
A is an underfloor shaft which extends from end to end of the main structure.
is the key or foundation from which the structure is put up, and it should be first
properly adjusted in position on the ground where the baraque is to be set up. In
practice it will usually he the only part of the structure for which the ground needs
to be leveled, this, however, should be laid upon a properly leveled strip of ground to
give firmness and solidity to the whole.
This shaft A is preferably made in three equal parts, each of which is 11 feet 4 inches
long, the length of the whole being 34 feet, and it may be 15 inches wide and 9 inches
deep. At suitable intervals its upper part is provided with openings A¹ as shown in
Figures 1 and 13, for discharging hot air or disinfectants into the structures the end
openings of the shaft being also protected against vermin by suitable screens g, and
having also a door 4, when desired, as shown in Figure 11. The meeting ends of the
parts may be constructed simply to meet each other, or they may be provided with
suitable portions to fit into each other, as desired. For securing these parts to each
other, and also for holding the various other sections together, the dovetail locking
device shown in Figures 3 to 7 is employed. This consists of two parts, which are
called the lock and key. Y is the lock, shown in front view in Figure 3 and top view
in Figure 4, and is a metal plate of suitable size and thickness, having countersunk
screw holes for attachment, and provided with the dovetail slot Y. Z is the key,
shown in front view in Figure 5, top view in Figure 6, and side view in Figure 7;
this key piece also has countersunk screw holes for attachment and is provided with a
dovetail locking projection Z, to correspond to the slot Y' into which it fits snugly.
These locking parts Y, Z, should be made of strong metal, preferably malleable iron,
and accurately fitted to each other, for upon them depends in a great measure the
perfect joining of the various parts. A suitable recess is to be cut into the wood
above the slot where necessary, to allow the key Z to be inserted in the slot Y
from above. These lock and key pieces are attached respectively to each of the
joining ends of the several sections of the shaft A, as shown in side view in Figures 15

page_text: and 16, and in end view in Figure 17, and preferably to a block A² secured to the
sides of the shaft for that purpose, so that when they are locked into each other the
parts will form the entire shaft, with an even surface on the top as plainly indicated
in Figures 1 and 13. To the sides of the shaft A, at regular intervals are also attached
the pieces Y, Y, into which lock the corresponding key pieces of the floor sections.
This shaft may be lined within with felt, lead, or tin, or it may be painted, if
desired.
The floor consists of wooden sections made of light material but of sufficient strength
to support the weight that is to be imposed upon them, and these there are preferably
24 of such sections, 12 on each side, in such a structure as is described. Each of the
floor sections is provided, on each end, with two of the key pieces Z, Z, those on one
end to lock into the pieces Y, Y, on the shaft A, and those on the opposito end to lock
into the side sections B, C. The floor sections are further supported on the shaft A
by a strip A³, Figures 15 and 16, which is attached lengthwise, at the proper height,
on the shaft A. For conveniently putting in and taking out these floor sections they
are provided at each end with an ordinary screw ring of suitable size, as indicated
With a
at m, m, Figure 13, countersunk to be flush with the surface of the floor.
suitable hook, inserted into the scrow ring, any section may be conveniently taken up.
This arrangement of the key pieces Z, Z, allows the floor sections to be put in from
above, and by means of the screw rings indicated at m, m, the floor sections can all be
taken up independently of each other, when for any reason that is necessary, as, for
instance, to adjust the extension feet, As shown in Figure 14, which is a section on
the line, of Figure 13, cach floor section is also provided on one of its under sides
with a supporting lip m', and the side having such supporting lip is also provided
with a hinged foot m², which may be dropped down when the section is in place as
an additional support for it upon the ground. To the foot m² is further attached an
extension foot m³, which is slotted to be adjustable by means of the set screw m*, as
shown in section in Figure 33. By means of the lip the parts support each other, and
by means of the foot they are also capable of being supported upon the ground so that
the floor can be made firin and unyielding when the structure is set up.
The sides of the structure consist of the double sections B, C, securely hinged
together as shown plainly in Figure 29. Each of these sections consists of a strong
wooden frame b, b, to one side of which, the outer side when in position, a suitable
covering is secured. This covering consists of three parts, first a sheet of strong
muslin or duck, thoroughly painted with asbestos or other suitable fire proof paint,
then a sheet of builder's felt or paper, and then another sheet of stong muslin or
duck, painted as above stated. This covering forms each of these sections into a tray,
which may be about 34 inches deep, 2 feet 6 inches wide, and 6 feet 1 inch long,
inside measurements. The side pieces project a suitable distance below the tray, as
feet upon which the frames are to stand on the ground when put up, and to these are
also attached extension feet m³ as shown in the drawings, like those employed for the
floor sections and already described, for firm adjustment on inequalities of the ground.
To strengthen these frames or trays bracing strips 1, 6, are used, disposed at about
equal distances as clearly shown.
The side pieces of these trays are provided with the locking pieces Y, Z, by means
of which they are secured together. The upper cross piece of each tray is also
provided with one of the lock pieces Y to receive the key Z on the end of the rafter,
while each lower cross piece is provided with two of such lock-pieces Y, Y, to receive
the keys.Z, Z, on the ends of the floor sections M, M. The meeting faces of these
side sections may also be tongued and grooved, as shown in Figure 30, which is a
section in the line X, X, of Figure 29, and they may also be covered by a strip of
felt, if desired.
The tray has an opening of suitable size to form a window. On the outer side of
this opening is attached a shutter C², disposed to be flush with the outer face of the
tray C, preferably slotted and hingel to swing outward, having a suitable hook or
catch to secure it in place when closed; and to the inner side is hinged a glazed sash c³,

page_text: to swing inward, also provided with a suitable catch to retain it in place when closed.
The tray-shaped structure of the parts gives depth enough for the shutter and for the
sash without either projecting beyond the face of the tray C, so that it is not necessary
to remove either the shutter or the glazed window in transporation, and by thus
disposing the parts, the glass is covered and protected by the shutter when the trays
are folded together for transportation.
The tray is furnished with a swinging table I, hinged to the lower brace piece b¹,
so that it may be folded or turned up for transportation, and having a suitable
supporting strap i to sustain it in position when in use. In the panel formed by the
lower brace piece and the lower cross piece of the frame, a folding chair may
be disposed and held in position by a suitable catch. A candlestick j¹ may also
be conveniently attached to this frame to turn outward for use, and inward for
transportation.
The tray B is furnished with a cot bed B', having a pillow B2 which is capable of
being folded down out of the way. At proper points on the inner sides of the
uprights b, b, cleats a, a, are secured, upon which the head end of the bed is to rest
when in use. The frame of the bed is attached to the sides of the uprights b, b, by
means of suitable straps a¹, a', which aid to hold it in position, and by which the head
of the bed may be conveniently swung down and the foot up, for packing and trans-
portation. This bed is provided with folding legs a², near each end, and it may be
detached from the straps a', a', and used as a litter or it may be set up outside of the
structure when desired. To arrange the bed for transportation, the pillow B² is folded
down out of the way, and the legs at the foot folded up, as shown in Figure 29, the
frame is drawn outward away from the cleats a, a, and the head of the bed is swung
downward suspended on the straps a', a¹, until it rests upon the top of the lower cross
piece of the tray C, and the foot of the bed is turned up and secured by a suitable
catch to the upper cross piece of the tray. When the bed and table etcetera are folded
in and the window closed, the sections or trays B, C, may be folded together enclosing
the parts, and suitably fastened together by a hook or other convenient device.
These double sections B, C, form the unit of the side, and in the structure shown in
the drawing six double sections are employed on each side.
The end of the structure consists essentially of the door sections E, E, corner
sections F, F, and roof sections G, G, of which Figure 2 is an elevation looked at
from within the structure, details of which are also shown in Figures 18, 19, etcetera.
G, G, are two frames of suitable size and configuration to form the slope for the
roof, and they are also covered with the same materials C as the side sections B, C,
already described, and are hinged to fold together, enclosing within them the glazed
windows C, which are protected on the outer side by shutters, as already described.
The corner sections F, F, correspond in structure to the window sections C, having
in addition thereto the upper sloping panel F¹ to complete the slope of the roof. The
lower ends of the frames of these sections are also to have the extension feet m³ and
appropriate set screws. These corner sections are not hinged, however, but are to be
laid together enclosing the glazed windows for protection, and then hooked, or
otherwise suitably secured together for transportation.
The door sections E, E, are provided on the upper face of the lower cross pieco,
and on the lower face of the upper cross piece with metal tongues d, d, the upper and
lower faces of the door H being correspondingly grooved to slide on these tongues.
These sections are also provided with bracing pieces 62, 62, on their inner sides opposite
the bracing pieces b₁, b, and between these pieces b', 6, moves the sliding door H.
The stripe also, instead of being 3 inches thick, as the corresponding strip on the
side sections is wide but thin, and a corresponding strip e¹ is secured opposite to it on
the other side, the door also moving between these pieces, as shown in Figure 26,
which is a section on the line X, X, of Figure 20. For transportation the door His
moved into the section E and there secured. K, Figure 21, is the lintel over the
sliding doors, locking into the upper part of the frames E, E, on each side by means
of the dovetails Z, Z, binding the frames E, E, together at the top. At the bottom

page_text: these frames E, E, are bound together and to the shaft A, by means of the sills L, L,
which are also provided with the keys Z, Z, to lock into the slots Y, Y, on the shaft A
and strip e, as shown in detail in Figures 11 and 12. To give additional support to
the sills, a cleat is secured at the proper point on the shaft A, upon which their inner
ends rest. The sills and top of the shaft A on the proper line, are also provided with
tongue pieces d, d, to guide the door. The sections E, E, F, F, and folding
sections G, G, are preferably fastened together by means of holts and nuts c, c, in
putting up the structure, as shown in the drawings.
The joining faces of the parts F and B, as shown in Figures 19 and 27, are also
provided with the lock and key pieces Y, Z, by whicli they are to be secured to each
other in setting up the structure, and where the wood of any of the frames is not of
sufficient thickness to allow these pieces to be securely attached, a re-enforcing block o
is employed, as shown in the drawings.
The roof consists of a suitable covering, and proper supports therefor. The
arrangement shown in the drawings consists of a ridge pole N of the proper length
made preferably in three sections and having the joining ends locked together for use
by means of the pieces Y, Z, as shown in Figures 28, which are sectional views on a
larger scale of the joining ends of the ridge pole sections. The ridge pole is supported
by posts P, P, which are placed beneath the joined ends of the parts, as indicated in
Figure 1. The extreme ends of the ridge pole are fitted with key pieces Z, Z, as
shown in Figure 22, to lock into the sloited pieces Y, Y, in the upper parts of the
roof sections G, G, at each end of the structure, as shown at Y in Figure 18, and
thereby the upper parts are held together. At suitable intervals on the ridge pole are
secured the pieces Y, Y, to receive the key pieces Z, Z, on the ends of the rafters O.
Instead however of screwing the pieces Y, Y, to the wood of the ridge pole, they are
set opposite to each other, and screwed together through the wood, as shown in
Figures 23, which show respectively a sectional and a side view of the ridge pole N,
indicating the method of securing these locking pieces Y, Y, to the pole.
The rafters 0, 0, are beveled to fit against the side of the ridge pole N and against
the upper sides of the frames B, C, and are provided at each end with the key
pieces Z, Z, (as shown in Figure 24, which is a perspective view of a part of one of
the rafters) by means of which their ends are secured respectively in the locks Y, Y,
on the ridge pole N and on the side sections B, C, the locking pieces on the side
sections being about the middle of the upper cross pieces, as shown in Figure 29.
The roof D consists of a strong canvas, which may be made water and fire proof by
means of suitable paint, and this is spread over the structure and buttoned or otherwise
securely fastened in position.
In use with the main structure, two additional chambers R, S, are also employed,
one at each end, the chamber R forming a suitable storm house and chamber for the
heating apparatus, while the chamber S is arranged for use for an earth closet, or
water closet, etcetera.
The chamber R is formed of framed sections w, we, made in the same manner and
of the same material as the sections B, C, and provided with the lock and key
pieces Y, Z, where required, to attach the parts to each other, and to the ends of the
main structure. This chamber R is provided with a hinged door which folds into
the section to which it is hinged, and is buttoned back as shown in Figure 25, for
convenience in transportation. This chamber is provided with the roof r, Figure S,
consisting of a frame suitably covered, and provided with hooks t, t, by which it is
attached to the side pieces of the chamber R and also to the end of the main structure.
This chamber contains the heating apparatus which may consist of a stove enclosed in
a large drum, the stove pipe projecting out of the chamber R at any desired point,
and the drum being provided with one or more flues, which may enter the main
structure through the holes 1, 1, shown in Figures 2, 18 and 20, and there discharge
the heated air. When the nature of the ground admits of it, the heating apparatus
may be arranged in such a position as to discharge the heated air through the under-
floor shaft A. Like the side sections B, C, the lower ends of the parts may also be

page_text: provided with the adjustable feet m³, and this chamber may be provided with a floor
if desired, though generally the floor may be omitted. This chamber R has only three
sides, being open towards the main structure, and may be used as a storm house, or as
a heating room. By providing this heating reservoir outside of the main structure,
the dust, noise, and commotion of heating the apartment, are avoided, which is very
important when the invention is used for hospital purposes; and the space also which
the heating apparatus would occupy is preserved the outer chamber also acts as
a storm house to protect the door opening; and it may be stored during warm
weather.
The chamber S consists of similar side pieces w, w, and roof s, and is preferably
furnished with a floor, consisting of a section of suitable size constructed and attached
by means of the locking devices Y, Z, like the sections M. It is furnished with two
doors u, u, which are folded back and secured in their appropriate sections w, w, for
transportation. (See Figures 1 and 13). By means of these doors this chamber is
enclosed on all sides, and may be set up at some distance from the main structure when
desired. In it the earth closet or other suitable convenience are is to be arranged.
The foregoing specification describes a structure, considered to be preferable for
general use, and most convenient, on account of its lightness, for transportation. But
the invention is not limited to such a structure, as it is evident that the invention may
be readily applied to structures of a different form, and made up of different materials.
Canvas and similar materials have been specified as suitable for covering the sides,
as these are light and comparatively cheap materials, and such as are considered the
best for general purposes, especially for hospital use in the case of epidemics, as the
whole structure can then after use be conveniently and entirely destroyed, if desired.
But in cases where the structure is designed for permanent use, and the cost and
convenience of transportation are not of so much consequence, the coverings for the
sides and roof may consist of sheet metal, such as tin, zinc, sheet iron, etcetera, which
will render the structure much stronger and more enduring.
Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of the said invention,
and in what manner the same is to be performed, as communicated to me by my foreign
correspondent, I declare that what 1 claim is :
1. A portable house consisting of a central longitudinal section A, floor sections M,
side sections B, C, in combination with suitable end sections, ridge pole N, and supports,
and roof D, substantially as described and shown.
2. In a portable house a shaft as A, provided with suitable locking devices to support
the floor centrally, substantially as described and shown.
3. In a sectional house a central longitudinal part A adapted to support the centrally
disposed ends of the floor sections, in combination with floor sections provided with
suitable devices, as the feet m³ adapted to adjust the outer portions of the sections to
the inequalities of the ground, substantially as described.
4. In a portable house, a floor consisting of sections M, M, provided with key
pieces Z, Z, adapted to permit the sections M, M, to be lifted up out of place
independently, substantially as described and shown.
5. In a portable house the floor sections M, provided with lip m³ and adjustable
feet m³, substantially as described and shown.
6. In a portable house, the roof as D, ridge pole N, supports P, P, and rafters 0, 0,
in combination with the trays B, C, and suitable end sections E, F, G, substantially
'as described.
7. In a portable house consisting of suitable sides and roof, the end sections E, E,
F, F, and roof sections G, G, substantially as described and shown.
E. in a portable house, the door section E, tongue-pieces-d, d, and sliding door-H,
substantially as described and shown.

page_text: 0. In a portable-house the trays B, C, adapted to fold together and enclose-a-suitable
packing space, substantially as described and shown.
10. In a portable house, the tray sections C with window openings therein, in
combination with a suitable-shutter C to swing outwardly, and glazed sash-C³ to
swing inwardly, substantially as described.
H. 8. In a portable house the tray as B, provided with a bed adjustable thereto and
adapted to fold into the same substantially as described and shown.
12. In a portable house, the tray as C provided-with the hinged table I, adapted to
fold into such tray, substantially as described and-shown.
13. 9. In a portable ho ise, the sections A, B, C, E, F, G and M, in combination with
the plates Y having dovetailed slots Y', and plates Z, having corresponding dovetailed
projections Z', substantially as described and shown.
WM. P. THOMPSON & Co.,
Agents for the Applicant.
WILLIAM MATTHEW DUCKER
By his Attorney,
Howard Cromwell Woodrow,

page_text: Date of Application, 4th Jan., 1887:
Specification Accepted, 4th Feb., 1887,
I, WILLIAM PHILLIPS THOMPSON F.C.S. of the Agency for Foreign Patent Solicitors
6 Lord Street, Liverpool in the County of Lancaster and 323, High Holborn, in the
County of Middlesex, Civil Engineer, do hereby declare the nature of this invention
and in what manner the same is to be performed, to be particularly described and
ascertained in and by the following statement:-
This invention relates to a structure which may be conveniently furnished with
articles required for use in a baraque, field hospital, etcetera, such as beds, tables,
chairs, etcetera, without adding to the space which it will take up when packed for
transportation, which can be quickly set up and taken down by workmen of ordinary
skill, which is so light that it may be easily transported in a convenient vehicle, readily
adjusted to inequalities of the ground, which is protected against fire, may be con-
veniently heated and ventilated, and constructed cheaply.
Figure 1 is an interior elevation through the structure, about the middle.
Figure 2 is a view of one end of the structure from within, the under-floor shaft A
shown in section.
Figures 3 to 7 are views of the dovetail locking devices by which the parts are
secured together when the structure is put up.
Figures 8 and 9 are perspective views of the shed roofs of the annexes.
Figure 10 is an elevation of the structure from without.
Figure 11 is an end view of the shaft A.
Figure 12 is a side view of one of the door sills.
12. Axon plan of the structure

page_text: Figures 15 and 16 are side views of the meeting ends of the sections of shaft A.
Figure 17 is an end view of one of the meeting ends of the sections of shaft. A.
Figure 18 is a detail view of the roof section from within.
Figure 19 is a similar view of one of the sloping end sections.
Figure 20 is a similar view of one of the door sections.
Figure 21 is a side view of the lintel.
Figure 22 is a view of the end of the ridge pole, showing the key pieces attached
for adjustment to the parts G, G.
Figure 23 shows a side and a section of the ridge pole.
Figure 24 is a perspective view of one of the rafters.
Figure 25 is a view of the side of the annex R, with the hinged door caught back,
ready for transportation.
Figure 26 is a section on the line a, a, of Figure 20.
Figure 27 is a portion of one of the side sections B, showing arrangement for
attaching it to the end section F.
Figure 28 shows the joining ends, in section, of the parts of the ridge pole.
Figure 29 is an enlarged view of one of the side sections B, C, showing the furniture
arranged for transportation.
Figure 30 is a section on the line,, of Figure 29.
Figure 31 is an edge view of a part of the tray C, partly in section.
Figure 32 is a view of the tray B, showing the bed lowered to its position for use.
Figure 33 is a section of the lower ends of the trays B, C, showing the extension
feet m³.
Similar letters of reference indicate like parts in all the drawings.
The structure consists essentially of a central support or under-floor shaft, floor,
sides, ends, roof, heating annex and earth closet annex, and it may be furnished with
beds, tables, chairs, etcetera.
A is an underfloor shaft which extends from end to end of the main structure. It
is the key or foundation from which the structure is put up, and it should be first
properly adjusted in position on the ground where the baraque is to be set up. In
practice it will usually be the only part of the structure for which the ground needs
to be leveled, this, however, should be laid upon a properly leveled strip of ground to
give firmness and solidity to the whole.
This shaft A is preferably made in three equal parts, each of which is 11 feet 4 inches
long, the length of the whole being 34 feet, and it may be 15 inches wide and 9 inches
deep. At suitable intervals its upper part is provided with openings A¹ as shown in
Figures 1 and 13, for discharging hot air or disinfectants into the structurex the end
openings of the shaft. being also protected against vermin by suitable screens g, and
having also a door h, when desired, as shown in Figure 11. The meeting ends of the
parts may be constructed simply to meet each other, or they may be provided with
suitable portions to fit into each other, as desired. For securing these parts to each
other, and also for holding the various other sections together, the dovetail locking
device shown in Figures 3 to 7 is employed. This consists of two parts, which are
called the lock and key. Y is the lock, shown in front view in Figure 3 and top view
in Figure 4, and is a metal plate of suitable size and thickness, having countersunk
screw holes for attachment, and provided with the dovetail slot Y. Z is the key,
shown in front view in Figure 5, top view in Figure 6, and side view in Figure 7;
this key piece also has countersunk screw holes for attachment and is provided with a
dovetail locking projection Z, to correspond to the slot ' into which it fits snugly.
These locking parts Y, Z, should be made of strong metal, preferably malleable iron,
and accurately fitted to each other, for upon them depends in a great measure the
perfect joining of the various parts. A suitable recess is to be cut into the wood
above the slot Y¹ where necessary, to allow the key Z to be inserted in the slot Y¹
from above. These lock and key pieces are attached respectively to each of the
joining ends of the several sections of the shaft A, as shown in side view in Figures 15

page_text: and 16, and in end view in Figure 17, and preferably to a block A secured to the
sides of the shaft for that purpose, so that when they are locked into each other the
parts will form the entire shaft, with an even surface on the top as plainly indicated
in Figures 1 and 13. To the sides of the shaft A, at regular intervals are also attached
the pieces Y, Y, into which lock the corresponding key pieces of the floor sections.
This shaft may be lined within with feli, lead, or in, or it may be painted, if
desired.
The floor consists of wooden sections made of light material but of sufficient strength
to support the weight that is to be imposed upon them, and these are preferably 24
of such sections, 12 on each side, in such a structure as is described. Each of the
floor sections is provided, on each end, with two of the key pieces Z, Z, those on one
end to lock into the pieces Y, X, on the shaft A, and those on the opposite end to lock
into the side sections B. C. The floor sections are further supported on the shaft A
by a strip A, Figures 15 and 16, which is attached lengthwise, at the proper height,
on the shaft A. For conveniently putting in and taking out these floor sections they
are provided at each end with an ordinary screw ring of suitable size, as indicated
With a
at m, m, Figure 13, countersunk to be flush with the surface of the floor.
suitable hook, inserted into the screw ring, any section may be conveniently taken up.
This arrangement of the key pieces Z, Z, allows the floor sections to be put in from
above, and by means of the screw rings indicated at m, m, the floor sections can all be
taken up independently of each other, when for any reason that is necessary, as, for
instance, to adjust the extension feet. As shown in Figure 14, which is a section on
the line of Figure 13, each floor section is also provided on one of its under sides
with a supporting lip m, and the side having such supporting lip is also provided
with a hinged foot m², which may be dropped down when the section is in place as
an additional support for it upon the ground. To the foot m² is further attached an
extension foot, m³, which is slotted to be adjustable by means of the set screw me, as
shown in section in Figure 38. By means of the lip the parts support each other, and
by means of the foot they are also capable of being supported upon the ground so that
the floor can be made firm and unyielding when the structure is set up.
The sides of the structure consist of the double sections B, C, securely hinged
together as shown plainly in Figure 29. Each of these sections consists of a strong
wooden frame b, b, to one side of which, the outer side when in position, a suitable
covering Cis secured. This covering C consists of three parts, first a sheet of strong
muslin or duck, thoroughly painted with asbestos or other suitable fire proof paint,
then a sheet of builders felt or paper, and then another sheet of strong muslin or
duck, painted as above stated. This covering forms each of these sections into a tray,
which may be about 3 inches deep, 2 feet 6 inches wide, and 6 feet 1 inch long.
inside measurements. The side pieces project a suitable distance below the tray, as
feet upon which the frames are to stand on the ground when put up, and to these are
also attached extension feet m³ as shown in the drawings, like those employed for the
floor sections and already described, for firm adjustment on inequalities of the ground.
To strengthen these frames or trays bracing strips b², 6, are used, disposed at about
equal distances as clearly shown.
The side pieces of these trays are provided with the locking pieces Y, Z, by means
of which they are secured together. The upper cross piece of each tray is also
provided with one of the lock pieces Y to receive the key Z on the end of the rafter,
while each lower cross piece is provided with two of such lock-pieces Y, Y, to receive
the keys Z, Z, on the ends of the floor sections M, M. The meeting faces of these
side sections may also be tongued and grooved, as shown in Figure 30, which is a
section in the line X, X, of Figure 29, and they may also be covered by a strip of
felt. if desired.
The tray C has an opening of suitable size to form a window. On the outer side of
this opening is attached a shutter C², disposed to be flush with the outer face of the
tray C, preferably slotted and hinged to swing outward, having a suitable hook or
catch to secure it in place when closed; and to the inner side is hinged a glazed sash,

page_text: to swing inward, also provided with a suitable catch to retain it in place when closed.
The tray-shaped structure of the parts gives depth enough for the shutter and for the
sash without either projecting beyond the face of the tray C, so that it is not necessary
to remove either the shutter or the glazed window in transportation, and by thus
disposing the parts, the glass is covered and protected by the shutter when the trays
are folded together for transportation.
The tray is furnished with a swinging table 1, hinged to the lower brace piece b',
so that it may be folded or turned up for transportation, and having
a suitable
supporting strap i to sustain it in position when in use. In the panel formed by the
lower brace piece and the lower cross piece of the frame, a folding chair may
he disposed and held in position by a suitable catch. A candlestick may also
be conveniently attached to this frame to turn outward for use, and inward for
transportation.
The tray B is furnished with a cot bed B¹, having a pillow B² which is capable of
being folded down out of the way. At proper points on the inner sides of the
uprights b, b, cleats a, a, are secured, upon which the head end of the bed is to rest
when in use. The frame of the bed is attached to the sides of the uprights b, b, by
means of suitable straps a, a, which aid to hold it in position, and by which the head
of the bed may be conveniently swung down and the foot up, for packing and tran-
sportation. This bed is provided with folding legs, near each end, and it may be
detached from the straps a, a, and used as a litter or it may be set up outside of the
structure when desired. To arrange the bed for transportation, the pillow B² is folded
down out of the way, and the legs at the foot folded up, as shown in Figure 29, the
frame is drawn outward away from the cleats a, a, and the head of the bed is swung
downward suspended on the straps a', a', until it rests upon the top of the lower cross
piece of the tray C, and the foot of the bed is turned up and secured by a suitable
catch to the upper cross piece of the tray. When the bed and table etcetera are folded
in and the window closed, the sections or trays B, C, may be folded together enclosing
the parts, and suitably fastened together by a hook or other convenient device.
These double sections B, C, form the unit of the side, and in the structure shown in
the drawing six double sections are employed on each side.
The end of the structure consists essentially of the door sections E, E, corner
sections F, F, and roof sections G, G, of which Figure 2 is an elevation looked at
from within the structure, details of which are also shown in Figures 18, 19, etcetera.
G, G, are two frames of suitable size and configuration to form the slope for the
roof, and they are also covered with the same materials C as the side sections B, C,
already described, and are hinged to fold together, enclosing within them the glazed
windows C³, which are protected on the outer side by shutters, as already described.
The corner sections F, F, correspond in structure to the window sections C, having
in addition thereto the upper sloping panel F1 to complete the slope of the roof. The
lower ends of the frames of these sections are also to have the extension feet m³ and
appropriate set screws. These corner sections are not hinged, however, but are to be
laid together enclosing the glazed windows for protection, and then hooked, or
otherwise suitably secured together for transportation.
The door sections E, E, are provided on the upper face of the lower cross piece,
and on the lower face of the upper cross piece with metal tongues d, d, the upper and
lower faces of the door H being correspondingly grooved to slide on these tongues.
These sections are also provided with bracing pieces 2, 12, on their inner sides opposite
the bracing pieces b, b, and between these pieces ',, moves the sliding door H.
The strip e also, instead of being 34 inches thick, as the corresponding strip on the
side sections is wide but thin, and a corresponding strip e' is secured opposite to it on
the other side, the door also moving between these pieces, as shown in Figure 26,
which is a section on the line X, X, of Figure 20. For transportation the door His
moved into the section E and there secured. K, Figure 21, is the lintel over the
sliding doors, locking into the upper part of the frames E, E, on each side by means
of the dovetails-Z, Z, binding the frames E, E, together at the top. At the bottom

page_text: these frames, 1, are bound together and to the shaft A, by means of the sills L, L,
which are also provided with the keys Z, Z, to lock into the slots Y, Y, on the shaft. A
and strip e, as shown in detail in Figures 11 and 12. To give additional support to
the sills, a cleat is secured at the proper point on the shaft A, upon which their inner
ends rest. The sills and top of the shaft. A on the proper line, are also provided with
tongue pieces d, d, to guide the door. The sections E, E, F, F, and folding
sections G, G, are preferably fastened together by means of bolts and nuts e, e, in
putting up the structure, as shown in the drawings.
The joining faces of the parts F and B, as shown in Figures 19 and 27, are also
provided with the lock and key pieces Y, Z, by which they are to be secured to each
other in setting up the structure, and where the wood of any of the frames, is not of
sufficient thickness to allow these pieces to be securely attached, a re-enforcing block o
is employed, as shown in the drawings.
The roof consists of a suitable covering, and proper supports therefor. The
arrangement shown in the drawings consists of a ridge pole N of the proper length
made preferably in three sections and having the joining ends locked together for use
by means of the pieces Y, Z, as shown in Figure 28, which are sectional views on a
larger scale of the joining ends of the ridge pole sections. The ridge pole is supported
by posts P, P, which are placed beneath the joined ends of the parts, as indicated in
Figure 1. The extreme ends of the ridge pole are fitted with key pieces Z, Z, as
shown in Figure 22, to lock into the slotted pieces Y, Y, in the upper parts of the
roof sections G, G, at each end of the structure, as shown at Y in Figure 18, and
thereby the upper parts are held together. At suitable intervals on the ridge pole are
secured the pieces Y, Y, to receive the key pieces Z, Z, on the ends of the rafters O.
Instead however of screwing the pieces Y, Y, to the wood of the ridge pole, they are
set opposite to each other, and screwed together through the wood, as shown in
Figures 23, which show respectively a sectional and a side view of the ridge pole N,
indicating the method of securing these locking pieces Y, Y, to the pole.
The rafters 0, 0, are beveled to fit against the side of the ridge pole N and against
the upper
sides of the frames B, C, and are provided at each end with the key
pieces Z, Z, (as shown in Figure 24, which is a perspective view of a part of one of
the rafters) by means of which their ends are secured respectively in the locks Y, Y,
on the ridge pole N and on the side sections B, C, the locking pieces on the side
sections being about the middle of the upper cross pieces, as shown in Figure 29.
The roof D consists of a strong canvas, which may be made water and fire proof by
means of suitable paint, and this is spread over the structure and buttoned or otherwise
securely fastened in position.
In use with the main structure, two additional chambers R, S, are also employed,
one at each end, the chamber R forming a suitable storm house and chamber for the
heating apparatus, while the chamber is arranged for use for an earth closet, or
water closet, etcetera.
The chamber R is formed of framed sections e, e, made in the same manner and
of the same material as the sections B, C, and provided with the lock and key
pieces Y, Z, where required, to attach the parts to each other, and to the ends of the
main structure. This chamber R is provided with a hinged door v, which folds into
the section to which it is hinged, and is buttoned back as shown in Figure 25, for
convenience in transportation. This chamber is provided with the roof "", Figure 8,
consisting of a frame suitably covered, and provided with hooks t, t, by which it is
attached to the side pieces of the chamber R and also to the end of the main structure.
This chamber contains the heating apparatus which may consist of a stove enclosed in
large drum, the stove pipe projecting out of the chamber R at any desired point,
and the drum being provided with one or more flues, which may enter the main
structure through the holes 1, 1, shown in Figures 2, 18 and 20, and there discharge
the heated air. When the nature of the ground admits of it, the heating apparatus
may be arranged in such a position as to discharge the heated air through the under-
floor shaft A. Like the side sections B, C, the lower ends of the parts may also be
a

page_text: provided with the adjustable feet m³, and this chamber may be provided with a floor
if desired, though generally the floor may be omitted. This chamber R has only three
sides, being open towards the main structure, and may be used as a storm house, or as
a heating room. By providing this heating reservoir outside of the main structure,
the dust, noise, and commotion of heating the apartment, are avoided, which is very
important when the invention is used for hospital purposes; and the space also which
the heating apparatus would occupy is preserved; the outer chamber also acts aș
a storm house to protect the door opening; and it may be stored during warm
weather.
The chamber consists of similar side pieces w, w, and roofs, and is preferably
furnished with a floor, consisting of a section of suitable size constructed and attached
by means of the locking devices Y, Z, like the sections M. It is furnished with two
doors u, u, which are folded back and secured in their appropriate sections, c, for
transportation. (See Figures 1 and 13). By means of these doors this chamber is
enclosed on all sides, and may be set up at some distance from the main structure when
desired. In it the earth closet or other suitable convenience are to be arranged.
The foregoing specification describes a structure, considered to be preferable for
general use, and most convenient, on account of its lightness, for transportation. But
the invention is not limited to such a structure, as it is evident that the invention may
be readily applied to structures of a different form, and made up of different materials.
Canvas and similar materials have been specified as suitable for covering the sides,
as these are light and comparatively cheap materials, and such as are considered the
best for general purposes, especially for hospital use in the case of epidemics, as the
whole structure can then after use be conveniently and entirely destroyed, if desired.
But in cases where the structure is designed for permanent use, and the cost and
convenience of transportation are not of so much consequence, the coverings for the
sides and roof may consist of sheet metal, such as tin, zinc, sheet iron, etcetera, which
will render the structure much stronger and more enduring,
Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of the said invention,
and in what manner the same is to be performed, as communicated to me by my foreign
correspondent, I declare that what I claim is :-
1. A portable house consisting of a central longitudinal section A, floor sections M,
side section B, C, in combination with suitable end sections, ridge pole N, and supports,
and roof D, substantially as described and shown.
2. In a portable house a shaft as A, provided with suitable locking devices to support
the floor centrally, substantially as described and shown.
3. In a sectional house a central longitudinal part A adapted to support the centrally
disposed ends of the floor sections, in combination with Hoor sections provided with
suitable devices, as the feet m³ adapted to adjust the outer portions of the sections to
the inequalities of the ground, substantially as described,
4. In a portable house, a floor consisting of sections M, M, provided with key
pieces Z, Z, adapted to permit the sections M, M, to be lifted up out of place
independently, substantially as described and shown.
5. In a portable house the floor sections M, provided with lip m¹ and adjustable
feet m³, substantially as described and shown.
6. In a portable house, the roof as D, ridge pole N, supports P, P, and rafters 0, 0,
in combination with the trays B, C, and suitable end sections E, F, G, substantially
as described.
7. In a portable house consisting of suitable sides and roof, the end sections E, E,
F, F, and roof sections G, G, substantially as described and shown.
8. In a portable house, the door, section E, tongue pieces d, d, and sliding door H,
substantially as described and shown.

page_text: 9. In a portable house the trays B, C, adapted to fold together and enclose a suitable
packing space, substantially as described and shown.
10. In a portable house, the tray sections C with window openings therein, in
combination with a suitable shutter C to swing outwardly, and glazed sash C³ to
swing inwardly, substantially as described.
11. In a portable house the tray as B, provided with a bed adjustable thereto and
adapted to fold into the same substantially as described and shown.
12. In a portable house, the tray as C provided with the hinged table I, adapted to
fold into such tray, substantially as described and shown.
13. In a portable house, the sections A, B, C, E, F, G and M, in combination with
the plates Y having dovetailed slots Y, and plates Z, having corresponding dovetailed
projections, substantially as described and shown.
WM. P. THOMPSON & Co.,
Agents for the Applicant.