CROSS-REFERENCE

[0001] This application claims priority of United States provision patent applications Serial Number 63/352,818 filed on June 16, 2022 and Serial Number 63/451,018, filed on March 9, 2023, which are incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The invention relates to a support assembly for building structures, and in particular to a support assembly for buildings such as manufactured homes.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Some building structures such as manufactured homes, also known as trailer homes, park homes, or mobile homes, are prefabricated (i.e., constructed offsite) and then moved to a desired location. To be able to move the structure while preserving its structural integrity, the structures are usually built over a horizontally extending metal frame which includes one or more I-beams, or a wood or timber frame which include one or more wood beams.

[0004] Different types of foundations can be provided for manufactured homes. Some manufactured homes are secured to cement or concrete blocks which rest on a concrete slab. The I-beams are then secured to the cement blocks using braces and metal straps. This type of foundation can be expensive and time-consuming, because it requires workers to make repeated visits to the site while the concrete is poured and cures over several weeks, and time is required to install the cement blocks on the cured concrete slab. This also delays the installation of the manufactured home, and can be subject to additional delays if the weather is not suitable for pouring concrete or installing cement blocks.

[0005] Some manufactured homes are mounted on piles, and specifically screw piles (sometimes called “helical piles”), which are driven and anchored in a ground surface. In this configuration, a pile head is provided on top of the pile and secured thereto to prevent unwanted removal, and the manufactured home is secured to the pile head. The pile and properly installed pile head provide stability in tension by anchoring the structure to the ground, as well as in compression by supporting the weight of the structure. Various devices and techniques have been proposed to secure the metal frame of the manufactured home to the pile head, such as the ones disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,487,469, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This approach is faster and less expensive to install than a concrete slab. However, this approach may not provide sufficient structural support for some used manufactured homes, which rely on the foundation to help stabilize their frame and prevent rocking and other undesirable movement of the building when their frame is not sufficiently sturdy. Furthermore, in many instances, contractors do not properly secure the pile head to the pile, which results in the pile assembly working vertically only in compression rather than both in tension and compression. This may prove problematic in extreme high wind and/or flood conditions (e.g., as during tropical storms or hurricanes) because the manufactured home may be lifted away for the cement blocks or screw piles.

[0006] There is therefore a need for a device which would overcome at least one of the above -identified drawbacks.

SUMMARY

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide a support assembly for a manufactured home that can be quickly and easily installed.

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide a support assembly for a manufactured home that provides structural support and stability to the manufactured home.

[0009] According to a broad aspect, there is provided a pile assembly for supporting a building structure having first and second beams extending in a first direction, the pile assembly comprising: a pile adapted to be anchored into a ground surface, the pile having a lower end to be inserted in the ground and a top end protruding outside the ground when the pile is installed; a pile head mounted to the top end of the pile, the pile head supporting a portion of the first beam of the building structure thereon and comprising: at least one bracket mounted to the pile head and extending in the first direction, the at least one bracket extending in the first direction being adapted to secure a first attachment member for connecting the at least one bracket extending in the first direction to the first beam; and a least one bracket mounted to the pile head and extending in a second direction, the second direction being substantially perpendicular to the first direction, the at least one bracket extending in the second direction being adapted to secure a second attachment member for connecting the at least one bracket extending in the second direction to the second beam of the building structure.

[0010] In one feature, the pile head further comprises a platform having a surface for receiving at least one vertical support member thereon, the vertical member supporting the portion of the first beam of the building structure thereon.

[0011] In another feature, the at least one bracket extending in the first direction is mounted to the platform.

[0012] In still another feature, the at least one bracket extending in the second direction is mounted to the platform.

[0013] In yet another feature, the pile assembly further comprises at least one vertical support member supported by the top surface of the platform, the at least one vertical support member having the top surface for receiving the beam of the building structure thereon.

[0014] In a further feature, the at least one vertical support member includes at least one cement block. In a different feature, the at least one vertical support member includes at least one metal tube.

[0015] In yet a further feature, the pile is a helical pile.

[0016] In one feature, the first direction is a longitudinal direction and the second direction is a lateral direction.

[0017] According to another broad aspect, there is provided a support assembly for supporting a building structure including first and second beams extending in a first direction, the support assembly comprising: a plurality of pile assemblies comprising at least one pile assembly supporting the first beam and one pile assembly supporting the second beam, each pile assembly comprising: a pile adapted to be anchored into a ground surface, the pile having a lower end to be inserted in the ground and a top end protruding outside the ground when the pile is installed; a pile head mounted to the top end of the pile, the pile head supporting a portion of the first beam of the building structure thereon and comprising: at least one bracket mounted to the pile head and extending in the first direction, the at least one bracket extending in the first direction being adapted to secure a first attachment member for connecting the at least one bracket extending in the first direction to the first beam; and a least one bracket mounted to the pile head and extending in a second direction, the second direction being substantially perpendicular to the first direction, the at least one bracket extending in the second direction being adapted to secure a second attachment member for connecting the at least one bracket extending in the second direction to the second beam of the building structure; a plurality of attachment members comprising: a first attachment member for connecting the at least one bracket extending in the first direction to first beam; and a second attachment member for connecting the at least one bracket extending in the second direction to the second beam.

[0018] In one feature, the pile head further comprises a platform having a surface for receiving at least one vertical support member thereon, the vertical member supporting the portion of the first beam of the building structure thereon.

[0019] In another feature, the at least one bracket extending in the first direction is mounted to the platform.

[0020] In still another feature, the at least one bracket extending in the second direction is mounted to the platform. [0021] In yet another feature, the support assembly further comprising at least one vertical support member supported by the top surface of the platform, the at least one vertical support member having the top surface for receiving the beam of the building structure thereon.

[0022] In still another feature, the at least one vertical support member includes at least one cement block. In a different feature, the at least one vertical support member includes at least one metal tube.

[0023] In another feature, the first beam has a first end and a second end, and the first attachment member connects the at least one bracket extending in the first direction to the first beam at an intermediate location situated between the first and second ends of the first beam.

[0024] In still another feature, the support assembly further comprises a clamp assembly provided on the first beam at the intermediate location, the first attachment member connecting the at least one bracket extending in the first direction to the clamp assembly.

[0025] In yet another feature, the support assembly further comprises a grasping member provided on the second beam, the second attachment member connecting that at least one bracket extending in the second direction to the grasping member provided on the second beam.

[0026] In one feature, the second beam is an I-beam having a top flange and a lower flange and the grasping member comprises a J-hook, the J-hook grasping one of the top flange and the lower flange of the I-beam. In a further feature, the J-hook grasps the top flange of the I-beam.

[0027] In one feature, at least one of the piles is a helical pile.

[0028] In some feature, the first direction is a longitudinal direction and the second direction is a lateral direction.

[0029] According to another broad aspect, there is provided a method of assembling a support assembly for supporting a building structure including first and second beams extending in a first direction, the method comprising: installing a first pile into a ground surface; placing a first pile head on a top of the first pile to provide a first pile assembly, the first pile head including a platform, at least one bracket extending in a first direction and at least one bracket extending in a second direction, the second direction being substantially perpendicular to the first direction; installing a second pile into the ground surface in a location spaced apart from the first pile, in the second direction; placing a second pile head on a top of the second pile to provide a second pile assembly, the second pile head including a platform, at least one bracket extending in a first direction and at least one bracket extending in a second direction; positioning the first beam onto the first pile assembly and the second beam onto the second pile assembly; fastening the at least one bracket extending in the first direction of the first pile assembly to the first beam; and fastening the at least one bracket extending in the second direction of the first pile assembly to the second beam supported by the second pile assembly.

[0030] In one feature, the method further comprises connecting the first bracket to a first bracket of the second support assembly.

[0031] In another feature, the method further comprises: providing at least one vertical support member on the platform of at least one of the first and second pile assemblies, the at least one vertical support member having a top surface for receiving thereon one of the first and second beams.

[0032] In another feature, fastening the at least one bracket extending in the first direction of the first pile to the first beam comprises fastening the at least one bracket extending in the first direction of the first pile to an intermediate location on the first beam, the intermediate point being located between a first end of the first beam and a second end of the first beam.

[0033] In yet another feature, the method further comprises: providing a clamp member; securing the clamp member to the first beam, at the intermediate location; connecting the first connecting member to the at least one bracket extending in the first direction of the first pile assembly and to the clamp member.

[0034] In still another feature, the at least one of the piles is a helical pile.

[0035] In yet another feature, the first direction is a longitudinal direction and the second direction is a lateral direction.

[0036] According to another broad aspect, there is provided a support assembly for supporting a building structure having a first beam and a second beam, the support assembly comprising: a first pile assembly adapted to be anchored into a ground surface, the first pile assembly having a top surface for receiving the first beam; a second pile assembly adapted to be anchored into a ground surface; and an attachment member for connecting the first beam to the second pile assembly.

[0037] In one feature, the attachment member is one of a metal strap and a threaded rod.

[0038] In another feature, the first pile assembly comprises a helical pile.

[0039] In yet another feature, the second pile assembly has a top surface for receiving the second beam thereon.

[0040] In still another feature, the second pile assembly is an auxiliary pile assembly.

[0041] In a further feature, the auxiliary pile assembly is anchored into the ground surface at an angle relative to the first pile assembly. In an additional feature, the angle is approximately 45 degrees.

[0042] According to another broad aspect, there is provided a support assembly for supporting a building structure, the support assembly comprising: a first pile assembly adapted to be anchored into a ground surface, the first pile assembly having a first top surface for receiving a first beam extending in a first direction; a second pile assembly adapted to be anchored into the ground surface, the second pile assembly having a second top surface for receiving a second beam oriented parallel to the first beam and extending in the first direction; at least one auxiliary pile assembly; a third beam oriented transversely to the first beam and the second beam, the third beam being supported by the first beam and the second beam; and at least one attachment member for connecting the third beam to the least one auxiliary pile assembly.

[0043] In one feature, the at least one attachment member comprises one of a metal strap and a threaded rod.

[0044] According to another broad aspect, there is provided a support assembly for supporting a building structure, the support assembly comprising: a first pile assembly adapted to be anchored into a ground surface, the first pile assembly having a first top surface for receiving a first beam extending in a first direction; a second pile assembly adapted to be anchored into the ground surface, the second pile assembly having a second top surface for receiving a second beam oriented parallel to the first beam and extending in the first direction; a third beam oriented transversely to the first beam and the second beam, the third beam being supported by the first beam and the second beam; at least one attachment member for connecting the third beam to at least one of the first pile assembly and the second pile assembly.

[0045] In one feature, the at least one attachment member comprises: a first attachment member for connecting the third beam to the first pile assembly; and a second attachment member for connecting the third beam to the second pile assembly.

[0046] In another feature, each of the at least one attachment member comprises one of a metal strap and a threaded rod.

[0047] According to another broad aspect, there is provided a method of assembling a support assembly for supporting a building structure, the method comprising: installing a first pile into a ground surface; placing a platform on a top of the pile to obtain a first pile assembly, the platform having a top surface; placing a beam on the top surface of the first pile assembly; fastening an attachment member to the beam; and fastening the attachment member to the support assembly.

[0048] In one feature, fastening the attachment member to the support assembly comprises fastening the attachment member to the pile.

[0049] In another feature, fastening the attachment member to the support assembly comprises fastening the attachment member to an auxiliary pile.

[0050] In yet another feature, the first pile comprises a helical pile.

[0051] According to another broad aspect, there is provided a support assembly for a manufactured home, the manufactured home comprising at least one beam, the support assembly comprising: a pile assembly having a longitudinal axis and a head; and a connector having first and second ends, the first end of the connector being fastened to the head of the pile assembly such that the connector is substantially coaxial with the pile assembly, the second end of the connector being connectable to the at least one beam of the manufactured home, such that the pile assembly and the connector stabilize the home in tension and in compression in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the pile assembly.

[0052] In one feature, the pile assembly comprises a helical pile.

[0053] In another feature, the connector is a threaded metal rod.

[0054] In another feature, the support assembly stabilizes the manufactured home against a lateral stress exerted on the manufactured home.

[0055] In yet another feature, the at least one beam of the manufactured home is an I-beam oriented transversely to a longitudinal axis of the manufactured home.

[0056] In still another feature, the at least one beam of the manufactured home is an I-beam oriented parallel to a longitudinal axis of the manufactured home.

[0057] In a further feature, the connector is connectable to the at least one beam of the manufactured home via a bracket provided on the at least one beam of the manufactured home.

[0058] According to another broad aspect, there is provided a manufactured home, comprising: at least one beam extending transversely to a longitudinal axis of the manufactured home; and a bracket affixed to an end of the at least one beam, the bracket including an anchor structure for anchoring the manufactured home to the ground.

[0059] In one feature, the anchoring structure comprises at least one of a reel attachment for attaching at least one metal strap thereto and an attachment point for attaching a bracket thereto.

[0060] In another feature, the at least one reel attachment comprises a first reel attachment for attaching a first metal strap thereto, and a second reel attachment for attaching a second metal strap thereto. [0061] According to another broad aspect, there is provided a method of assembling a support assembly for supporting a building structure, the method comprising: installing a first pile assembly into a ground surface; installing an auxiliary pile into the ground surface; placing a first beam of the building structure on a top of the first pile assembly; fastening a rod to the auxiliary pile; and fastening the rod to the first beam of the building structure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0062] Having thus generally described the nature of the invention, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, showing by way of illustration example embodiments thereof and in which:

[0063] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a frame assembly of a manufactured home, in accordance with one embodiment;

[0064] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an array of support assemblies according to a first embodiment;

[0065] Figure 3 is a front elevation view of the array of support assemblies of Figure 1 ;

[0066] Figure 4 is a side elevation view of the array of support assemblies of Figure 1 ;

[0067] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a platform according to an embodiment;

[0068] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a clamp according to an embodiment;

[0069] Figure 7 is a perspective view of an array of support assemblies according to a second embodiment;

[0070] Figure 8 is an exploded view of the vertical support members of a support assembly of Figure 7; [0071] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a top piece of a support assembly of Figure 7 for receiving a beam;

[0072] Figure 10 is an elevation view of a support assembly according to a third embodiment;

[0073] Figure 11 is an elevation view of a portion of the support assembly of Figure 10;

[0074] Figure 12 is a partial elevation view of a support assembly according to a fourth embodiment;

[0075] Figure 13 is an elevation view of two support assemblies according to Figure 12;

[0076] Figure 14 is a side elevation view of a plurality of support assemblies according to Figure 12;

[0077] Figure 15 is an elevation view of a support assembly according to a fifth embodiment;

[0078] Figure 16 is another elevation view of the support assembly shown in Figure 15;

[0079] Figure 17 is an elevation view of a support assembly according to a sixth embodiment;

[0080] Figure 18 is another elevation view of the support assembly shown in Figure 17;

[0081] Figure 19 is an elevation view of a support assembly according to a seventh embodiment;

[0082] Figure 20 is a perspective view of a frame assembly of a manufactured home, in accordance with another embodiment;

[0083] Figure 21 is an elevation view of a support assembly according to an eighth embodiment;

[0084] Figure 22 is an elevation view of a support assembly according to a ninth embodiment; [0085] Figure 23 is another elevation view of the support assembly shown in Figure 22;

[0086] Figure 24 is an elevation view of a support assembly according to a tenth embodiment;

[0087] Figure 25 is another elevation view of the support assembly shown in Figure 24;

[0088] Figure 26 is an elevation view of a support assembly according to an eleventh embodiment;

[0089] Figure 27 is another elevation view of the support assembly shown in Figure 26;

[0090] Figure 28 is a view of an attachment rod and brackets according to an embodiment;

[0091] Figure 29 is front view of an attachment rod and brackets according to an alternative embodiment;

[0092] Figure 30 is a side view of the attachment rod and bracket shown in Figure 29;

[0093] Figure 31 is an elevation view of a support assembly according to a twelfth embodiment;

[0094] Figure 32 is an elevation view of a support assembly according to a thirteenth embodiment;

[0095] Figure 33 is an enlarged, partial elevation view of the support assembly shown in Figure 32;

[0096] Figure 34 is an elevation view of a support assembly according to a fourteenth embodiment;

[0097] Figure 35 is an enlarged, partial elevation view of the support assembly shown in Figure 34;

[0098] Figure 36 is an elevation view of a support assembly according to a fifteenth embodiment; [0099] Figure 37 is an enlarged, partial elevation view of the support assembly shown in Figure 36;

[00100] Figure 38 is an elevation view of a support assembly according to a sixteenth embodiment;

[00101] Figure 39 is an elevation view of a support assembly according to a seventeenth embodiment;

[00102] Figure 40 is an elevation view of a support assembly according to an eighteenth embodiment;

[00103] Figure 41 is a bracket which is compatible with embodiments disclosed herein;

[00104] Figure 42 is a flow chart of a method of assembling a support assembly according to a first embodiment;

[00105] Figure 43 is a flow chart of a method of assembling a support assembly according to a second embodiment; and

[00106] Figure 44 is a flow chart of a method of assembling a support assembly according to a third embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00107] Referring generally to Figures 1 to 4, a support assembly 100 will be described. The support assembly 100 is suitable for supporting a manufactured home 10 or other similar structures, as will be described. In one embodiment, the manufactured home comprises a pair of spaced-apart longitudinal beams 116, 126 extending in a longitudinal direction L, each beam 116, 126 having a first end 12, 14, and a second, opposite end 16, 18 and a plurality of cross-beams 20a-20h supported on the longitudinal beams 116, 126 and distributed between the first and second ends 12, 14, 16, 18 thereof. As it is apparent from Figure 1, the cross-beams 20a-20h extend parallel to one another, in a transverse or lateral direction 1, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L.

[00108] In one embodiment, the longitudinal beams 116, 126 are I-beams. As it is known in the art, the longitudinal beams used in the fabrication of manufactured homes (e.g., longitudinal beams 116, 126) tend to be somewhat flimsy considering the length of manufacture homes (i.e., which essentially correspond to the length of the longitudinal beams 116, 126 between their first end 12, 14 and second end 16, 18). As such, twisting of the beams 116, 126 is susceptible to occur when the longitudinal beams 116, 126 are anchored via their lower flanges 22 and lateral forces are exerted on the manufactured home supported atop the upper flanges 24 of the longitudinal beams 116, 126.

[00109] In the illustrated embodiment, the support assembly 100 comprises four (4) pile assemblies, namely a left pair of pile assemblies 10 la- 10 lb for supporting longitudinal beam 116 and a right pair of support assemblies 103a-103b for supporting longitudinal beam 126. While in the illustrated embodiment the support assembly 100 comprises four (4) pile assemblies lOla-lOlb and 103a-103b, it will be understood that a different number of pile assemblies could be used, depending on the length and width of the manufactured home (e.g., manufactured home 10), the number of longitudinal frames (e.g., longitudinal frames 116, 126), the nature of the ground in which the pile assemblies are installed (e.g., sand, argyle) and the dimensions of the pile assembly being installed (e.g., diameter of the helical member).

[00110] The pile assemblies lOla-lOlb and 103a-103b being similarto one another, only pile assembly 10 la will be described. It will however be understood that a similar description also applies to pile assemblies 101b and 103a- 103b, with proper adaptations. In the illustrated embodiment, pile assembly 101a comprises a screw pile 102 having a helical member 104 to allow insertion of the pile 102 into the ground surface. Alternatively, the pile 102 may be any other type of pile that a skilled addressee may consider to be appropriate.

[00111] It should be understood that the term “helical pile” or “helical member” may be used in some contexts to refer to a pile having a particular construction, which may in some places be subject to standardization, certification, or regulation. For example, a helical pile may in some cases be a pile having a screw portion in the shape of a geometric helicoid such that the leading and trailing edge of the helicoid are parallel. In some embodiments, the pitch of the helicoid may be selected to provide desired performance characteristics, for example a pitch of 3 inches. By using a helical pile of this construction, a stronger and more predictable anchoring effect can be obtained when installed to the specified depth, resulting in improved structural rigidity of the final structure, compared to piles of a different construction or other types of anchors. However, in some contexts, for example where the construction of a pile is not subject to standardization, certification, or regulation, any pile with an apparently screw-shaped structure on the end to be inserted into the ground may be considered a “helical pile”.

[00112] The pile assembly 101a further comprises a pile head 105 including a platform 106 (best seen in Figure 5) is mounted to the top of the pile 102 by any suitable means, for example by having a tubular sleeve 107 that receives a top portion 109 of the pile 102. Alternatively, the pile head 105 may include a tubular member that is received in the top portion 109 of the pile 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the pile 102 is cylindrical and the sleeve 107 of the pile head 105 is similarly cylindrical. Alternatively, both the pile 102 and the sleeve 107 of the pile head 105 could have a rectangular cross-section, or have any other matching cross-section shapes that a skilled person would consider to be appropriate. In one embodiment, the sleeve 107 of the pile head 105 is secured to the top portion 109 of the pile 102. For instance, the sleeve 107 of the pile head 105 could be provided with threaded holes (not shown) that can be aligned with corresponding holes in the top portion 109 of the pile 102 (not shown) for receiving therein threaded fasteners (not shown). Such a configuration of pile head is described in U.S. Patent No. 9,631,335 by Reusing et al., entitled “Pile, Pile Head and Connector Therefor”, and in U.S. Patent No. 10,400,413 by Reusing et al., entitled “Pile, Pile Head and Connector Therefor”, both of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. As it will be appreciated, such a configuration prevents unwanted vertical movement of the pile head 105 relative to the top portion 109 of the pile 102, thus allowing the pile assembly 101a to work both in compression and tension. As it will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the pile head 105 can be secured or attached to the top end 109 of the pile head 102 using different techniques (e.g., by welding) or not secured at all where the environment does not necessitate the pile assembly 101a to work both in compression and tension (i.e., in circumstances where the pile assembly 101a is required to work in compression only).

[00113] With reference to Figure 5, the pile head 105 further comprises a pair of longitudinal brackets 108a, 108b and a pair of lateral brackets 110a, 110b, all extending outwardly for the platform 106. More specifically, the two longitudinal brackets 108a, 108b extend outwardly from the platform 106 in the longitudinal direction, the first longitudinal bracket 108a extending in a first longitudinal direction Li (e.g., toward the first end of the longitudinal beam 116 of the manufactured home supported by the pile assembly 101a) while the second longitudinal bracket 108b extends in a second longitudinal direction L2, opposite to the first longitudinal direction Li (e.g., toward the second end of the longitudinal beam of the manufactured home supported by the pile assembly 101a). The two lateral brackets 110a, 110b also extend outwardly from the platform 106, but in the lateral direction 1, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. More specifically, the first lateral bracket 110a extends in a first lateral direction h (e.g., toward the third pile assembly 103a) while the second lateral bracket 110b extends in a second longitudinal direction h, opposite to the first lateral direction h (e.g., away from the third pile assembly 103a). Provided on each of the longitudinal brackets 108a, 108b and lateral brackets 110a, 110b is a pair of mounting holes I l la, 111b, vertically distributed. As it will become apparent below, the number and location of mounting holes (e.g., mounting holes I l la, 111b) could vary depending on the number and position of members to be attached to the brackets (e.g., brackets 108a, 108b and 110a, 110b).

[00114] Further, while in the above embodiment the pile head 105 is provided with two pairs of brackets 108a, 108b and 110a, 110b, it will be understood that the pile head could be provided with a different number of brackets. For instance, in some embodiment, one, two or three brackets may be sufficient. In other embodiments, more than four brackets may be required. Further, it will be appreciated that the brackets could be positioned differently. For instance, some brackets could be configured to extend in a angular direction relative to the longitudinal and/or lateral directions.

[00115] The platform 106 of the pile head 105 comprises a top surface 112 suited to receive one or more vertical support members 114 (shown in Figures 2 to 4), as it will become apparent below. More specifically, a receiving space 113 is defined on the top surface 112, between the longitudinal brackets 108a, 108 andthe lateral brackets 110a, 110b, which are configured to extend above the top surface 112 of the platform 106. The receiving space 113 is sized and shaped to accommodate one or more vertical members 114, and to maintain the same in position onto the top surface 112 of the platform. More specifically, the longitudinal brackets 108a, 108 and the lateral brackets 110a, 110b extending above the top surface 112 of the platform 106 provide vertical surfaces abutting the vertical members 114 to thereby prevent their horizontal movement relative to the platform 112.

[00116] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 4, the plurality of vertical members 114 each comprises a plurality of cement blocks, which may be ordinary cinder blocks in some embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, each pile assembly 101a, 101b, 103a and 103b supports a pile of 16 cinder blocks, for instance cinder blocks having a height of about 8 inches (203 mm), a width of 8 inches (203 mm) and a length of 16 inches (406 mm). In this embodiment, the column of cinder blocks comprises 4 layers, each layer comprising two blocks positioned in a side-by-side manner, the direction of the length of the cinder blocks alternating from one layer to another to define a column having a square cross-section. As such, in the illustrated embodiment, the space 113 of the platform 106 is configured to receive the square column, where the longitudinal brackets 108a, 108 and the lateral brackets 110a, 110b abut against the cinder blocks of the bottom layer, thereby preventing horizontal movement of the cinder blocks column relative to the platform. As it will be understood, cinder blocks having different dimensions could be used, and it is contemplated that any suitable vertical support members 114 may be used.

[00117] With reference to Figure 2, support beam 116 is supported on the vertical support member 114 of the pile assembly 101a, at a location proximal to its first end 12, and on support member 114 of the pile assembly 101b, at a location proximal to its second end 16. Likewise, support beam 126 is supported on the vertical support member 114 of the pile assembly 103a, at a location proximal to its first end 14, and on support member 114 of the pile assembly 103b, at a location proximal to its second end 18. In one embodiment, support beams 116, 126 are I-beams, although it will be understood that other types of beams could be used, such as a wood beam, depending on the construction of the prefabricated structure.

[00118] To secure the support beams 116, 126 to the various pile assemblies 101a, 101b, 103a and 103b, attachment members are provided. Securing the support beams 116, 126 to the pile assemblies 101a, 101b or 103a, 103b being similar from one pile assembly to another, the attachment will be described in connection with pile assembly 101a only. It will be understood that securing the support beams 116 or 126 to the other pile assemblies 101b, 103a, 103b will be carried out in a similar manner, with proper adaptation. [00119] In the illustrated embodiment, a first attachment member 118 is provided to connect the first lateral bracket 110a of the first pile assembly 101a to the I-beam 126 supported the third pile assembly 103a located adjacent pile assembly 101a, in the first lateral direction (i.e., on the right relative to pile assembly 101a in Figure 3). More specifically, the first attachment member 118 comprises a first end 119 secured to the first lateral bracket 110a and a second end 121 provided with a J-hook 117, for grabbing the top flange 24 of I-beam 126. In this embodiment, the first end 119 of the first attachment member 118 is provided with a hole for receiving therein a fastener 31 while the second end 121 of the attachment member 118 comprises a securing plate 33 comprising a transverse portion extending transverse to a longitudinal axis of the attachment member and a vertical portion, angular with respect to the transverse portion and vertically extending when the attachment member is properly secured to the first pile assembly 101a and to the I-beam 126. Defined in the vertical portion is a hole for receiving therein a threaded portion of the J-hook 117. Nuts are provided on the threaded portion of the J-hook 117 for securing the same to the securing plate and forcing the securing plate toward the I-beam 126 upon installation of the first attachment member 118.

[00120] To install the first attachment member 118, the J-hook 117 is first installed on the top flange 24 of the I-beam 126 such that the J-hook 117 engages the top flange 24 of the beam 126 opposite to the first pile assembly 101a and the threaded portion points toward the first pile assembly 101a. A first nut is then engaged and screwed onto the threaded portion of the J-hook 117, which threaded portion is then engaged in the hole of the securing plate provided at the second end 121 of the first attachment member 118. A second nut is then loosely engaged onto the threaded portion of the J-hook 117, such that a space between the first and second nuts is provided to allow some movement of the securing plate 33 relative to the J-hook 117. At that point, the first end 119 of the first attachment member 118 is secured to the first lateral bracket 110a by aligning the hole provided at the first end of the first attachment member with the top hole provided on the first lateral bracket 110a, and fastener 31 is engaged therein to secure the first end 119 of the first cross member 118 to the first lateral bracket 110a. In one embodiment, the fastener can be a bolt and a nut, although it will be understood that other type of fasteners could be used. When the first end 119 of the first attachment member 118 is secured to the first lateral bracket 110a of the first pile assembly 101a, the nuts are threaded onto the threaded portion of the J-hook 117 to provide adequate tension and/or compression by the first attachment member 118, between the first lateral bracket 110a and the I-beam 126.

[00121] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, a horizontal bar 128 may also connect the first lateral bracket 110a of the first pile assembly 101a to the second lateral bracket 110b of the third pile assembly 103a. In this embodiment, the horizontal bar 128 has a first end 129 connecting the first lateral bracket 110a of the first pile assembly 101a and a second end 131 connecting the second lateral bracket 110b of the third pile assembly 103a, the first and second ends 129, 131 of the horizontal bar 128 being each provided with a hole that can be aligned with a corresponding lower hole of the brackets 110a, 110b, for receiving therein fasteners to secure the ends to the first and second lateral brackets 110a, 110b.

[00122] With reference to Figure 4, a second attachment member 120 is provided to connect the first longitudinal bracket 108a of the first pile assembly lOlato the I-beam 116 supported by the first and second pile assemblies 101a, 101b. More specifically, a clamp 130 (best shown in Figure 6) is provided on the I-beam 116, in an intermediate location generally halfway between the first end 12 and the second end 16 of the I-beam 116. The clamp 130 is generally T-shaped when seen from a side end, and comprises a vertical portion 133 having a lower end 135 and atop end 137, and a horizontal portion 139 mounted to the top end 137 of the vertical portion 133. The vertical portion 133 is provided with a hole for securing the second attachment member 120 to the clamp 130, as it will become apparent below. Provided on the horizontal portion 139 is a pair of oblong slots 141, one of the slots 141 extending on each side of the vertical portion 133, for receiving therein a movable clamping member 143. Each clamping member 143 comprises a horizontal plate 145, a bolt 147 provided with a nut 149 and a spacer 151, having a generally cylindrical shape in the illustrated embodiment. The spacers 151 are sized to generally match the thickness of the lower flange 22 of the I-beam 116, as it will become apparent below.

[00123] To install the clamp 130 to the I-beam 116, the clamping members 143 are loosened by unscrewing the nuts 149, and the horizontal plates 145 of clamping members 143 are engaged on top of the lower flanges 22 of the I-beam 116. The nuts 149 are then screwed on the bolts 147 to force the horizontal plates 145 downwardly to securely engaged the top of the lower flanges 22 of the I-beam 116, hence securing the clamp 130 to the I-beam 116 at the desired location. [00124] Once the clamp 130 is secured to the I-beam 116, the second attachment member 120 can be secured to the first longitudinal bracket 108a of the first pile assembly 101a and to the clamp 130. To do so, a first end 153 of the second attachment member 120 is secured to the first longitudinal bracket 108a by aligning a hole found at the first 153 end of the second attachment member 120 with the upper hole found on the first longitudinal bracket 108a, and engaging a fastener such as a bolt into the holes to secure the first end 153 of the second attachment member 120 to the first longitudinal bracket 108a. At that point, a second, opposed end 155 of the second attachment member 120 is secured to the clamp 130. More specifically, a hole provided at the second end 155 of the second attachment member 120 is aligned with the hole found in the vertical portion 133 of the clamp 130, and a fastener such as a bolt 35 is engaged in holes to secure the second end 155 of the second attachment member 120 to the clamp 130.

[00125] In one embodiment, the first connecting member 118, the second connecting member 120 and/or the horizontal bar 128 are angled bars or L-shaped beams having a predefined length. It will be understood however that one or more of the attachment members 118, 120 and the horizontal bar 128 may have an adjustable length for ease of assembly of the support assembly 100, and that they could have a different shape..

[00126] With reference to Figure 1, it can be appreciated that piles assemblies 101a, 101b, 103a and 103b may be part of an array of piles extending in the longitudinal L and lateral direction 1 for the distance required to support the structure supported by the I-beams 116, 126. In such an array, the connections between the pile assemblies 101a, 101b, 103a and 103b and the I-beams 116, 126 may be reciprocal, for example the pile assemblies 103a and 103b, have attachment members 118 connected to the I-beams supported by the pile assemblies 101a, 101b. The pile assemblies 101b and 103b are also connected by a bar 128, much like pile assemblies 101a, 103a described above. Likewise, the pile assemblies 101b, 103a and 103b each have an attachment member 120 connected to the I-beam 116 or 126.

[00127] As it will be appreciated from Figures 1 to 5, vertical support members 114 provided a vertical spacing between the pile assemblies 101a, 101b, 103a and 103b and the I-beams 116 or 126 supported thereon. In some embodiments, the vertical spacing provided by the vertical support members 114 permits the attachment members 118, 120 to connect to the I-beams 116 or 126 at an angle to both the vertical axis of the piles 102 and the longitudinal directions of the I-beams. In this manner, the attachment member 118 may optionally be connected to the top of the I-beam above the one or more vertical support members of the adjacent pile, to bias the I-beam downward onto the adjacent pile, and the bar 128 may maintain the distance from the I-beam 126 to the pile 102. In some embodiments, the attachment member 120 is connected to an intermediate point on the I- beam 116 between the pile assemblies 101a and 101b or 103a and 103b, for example via a clamp 130 (best seen in Figure 6), which may also be connected to the brackets of the pile assemblies 101a, 101b, 103a or 103b. Further, the beam 116 or 126 can be attached to the various pile assemblies 101a, 101b, 103a and 103b by another attachment member 132 having the general configuration of a metal strap, extending from the I-beams 116, 126 to the longitudinal brackets 108b of each pile assembly 101a, 101b, 103a, 103b. In some embodiments, the attachment members 132 and the vertical support members 114 cooperate to apply a tension to the I-beam 116, reinforced by the stability of the pile assemblies 101a, 101b, 103a and 103b, which in turn helps to stabilize the manufactured home or other structure supported by the I-beams 116 and 126. Additional stability may be provided by the optional metal strap 216 affixed to the end of the I-beam 116 or 126 and to the brackets 108 or 110.

[00128] Referring to Figures 7 to 9, a support assembly 150 will now be described in accordance with another embodiment. Much like support assembly 100, the support assembly 150 is suitable for supporting a manufactured home or other similar structure. As it can be appreciated from Figures 7 to 9, much of the features of the support assembly 150 that are the same as corresponding features of the support assembly 100, except for the vertical members 164, which are configured differently than vertical members 114 of the support assembly 100. As such, the features that are identical or similar are indicated with the same reference numbers.

[00129] As such, the support assembly 150 comprises four (4) pile assemblies, namely a left pair of pile assemblies 16 la- 16 lb for supporting longitudinal beam 116 and a right pair of support assemblies 103a-103b for supporting longitudinal beam 126. While in the illustrated embodiment the support assembly 100 comprises four (4) pile assemblies 161a- 161b and 163a-163b, it will be understood that a different number of pile assemblies could be used, depending on the length and width of the manufactured home (e.g., manufactured home 10), the number of longitudinal frames (e.g., longitudinal frames 116, 126), the nature of the ground in which the pile assemblies are installed (e.g., sand, argyle) and the dimensions of the pile assembly being installed (e.g. diameter of the helical member).

[00130] The pile assemblies 16 la- 16 lb and 163a-163b being similarto one another, only pile assembly 16 la will be described. It will however be understood that a similar description also applies to pile assemblies 161b and 163a-163b, with proper adaptations. In the illustrated embodiment, pile assembly 161a comprises a screw pile 102 having a helical member 104 to allow insertion of the pile 102 into the ground surface. Alternatively, the pile 102 may be any other type of pile that a skilled addressee may consider to be appropriate.

[00131] The pile assembly 101a comprises a pile head 65 including a platform 156 (best seen in Figure 9) mounted to the top of the pile 102 by any suitable means, for example by having a tubular sleeve 157 that receives the top portion of the pile 102. Alternatively, the pile head 65 may include a tubular member that is received in the top portion of the pile 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the pile 102 is cylindrical and the sleeve 157 is similarly cylindrical. Alternatively, both the pile 102 and the sleeve 157 could have a rectangular cross-section, or have any other matching cross-section shapes that a skilled person would consider to be appropriate.

[00132] The platform 156 has a pair of longitudinal brackets 158a, 158b oriented in the longitudinal direction (along a first axis) and a pair of transverse or lateral brackets 160a, 160b oriented in the lateral direction (along a second axis) substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[00133] The top surface 162 of the platform 106 is suited to receive one or more vertical support members 164. In the illustrated embodiment, the vertical support member 164 is shown, shown as a plurality of nested metal tubes comprising a first tube 171 securely fastened onto the top surface of the platform 106, between the pairs of longitudinal and transversal brackets 158a, 158b, 160a and 160b, and an adjustable tube 173 slidably mounted inside the first tube 171 As best shown in Figure 8, each of the first and second tubes 171, 173 is provided with a series of vertically distributed, and radially opposed holes 177, 179, respectively, for receiving therein fasteners such as bolts and nuts, to secure the second, slidable tube inside the first tube, and adjust the overall height of the vertical support member 164 by selecting the appropriate holes 177 and 179 and positioning the fasteners therein. While in this embodiment, the vertical member makes use of a first tube 171 and a second tube 173 it is contemplated that any suitable vertical support members 164 may be used, such as a single metal tube, or a vertical member 163 comprising 3 or more tubes telescopically or otherwise mounted into one another. The metal tubes may be steel tubes having a heavier gauge than the pile 102.

[00134] In the illustrated embodiment, the second tube 173 of the vertical support member 164 is provided with a threaded hole 75 for movably mounting an extendable member 165 to top of the second tube 173 of the vertical support member 164.

[00135] More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the extendable member 165 includes a threaded shaft 166 and a support platform 167 secured to the threaded shaft 166. The threaded shaft 166 is configured to engage the threading in the threaded hole 75 of the second tube 173. The support platform 167 extends generally horizontally when the extendable member 165 is mounted to the second tube 173 and is provided a pair of oblong slots 181, one of the slots 141 extending on each side of the threaded shaft 166, for receiving therein a movable clamping member 183. Each clamping member 183 comprises a horizontal plate 185, abolt 187 provided with anut 189 and a spacer 191, having a generally cylindrical shape in the illustrated embodiment. The spacers 181 are sized to generally match the thickness of the lower flange 22 of the I-beam 116, much like spacers 151 of clamp 130.

[00136] To mount a beam (e.g. I-beam 116) to the pile assembly 161, the pile 102 is fist installed in the ground at a desired location, and the pile head 156 is mounted on top of the pile 102, by engaging the mounting sleeve 167 about the top of the pile 102. The second tube 173 of the vertical support member 164 is then then slidably engaged in the first tube 171, at the desired height, and bolts or other types of fasteners are engaged in the holes 175, 177 to maintain the second tube 173 in vertical position relative to the first tube 171. The threaded shaft 166 of the extendable member 165 is then engaged in the threaded hole 75 of the second tube 173, and is screwed until a desired height of the vertical support member 164 is achieved. At that point, the clamping members 183 are loosened by unscrewing the nuts 189, and the horizontal plates 185 of clamping members 183 are spaced along the longitudinal slots to allow the I-beam 116 to be positioned atop the support platform 167. The clamping members 183 are then engaged on top of the lower flanges 22 of the I-beam 116. The nuts 189 are then screwed on the bolts 187 to force the horizontal plates 185 downwardly to securely engaged the top of the lower flanges 22 of the I-beam 116, hence securing the I-beam 116 to the support platform 167.

[00137] While in the above embodiment the vertical support member 164 is provided with extendable member 165 configured in a particular way, it will be understood that vertical member 164 could be configured differently without departing from the scope of the embodiment. For instance, extendable member 165 could have clamping members, a single clamping member or more than two clamping members.

[00138] Returning to Figure 7, the pile assemblies 161a, 161b and 163a, 163b are used to support I-beams 116, 126. As it will be appreciated, the vertical support provided by vertical support members 114 or 164 allow achieving the function of supporting I-beams 116 and 126 in a very similar way, except that in some embodiments, the use of clamping members 183 on the support platform 167 of vertical support member 164, along with the use of fasteners to maintain the second tube 173 in position relative to the first tube of the vertical support member and the thread engagement of the extendable member 165 relative to the second tube 173 allow the vertical support 164 to provide additional tension forces against unwanted vertical movement of the I-beam 116 or 126 relative to the vertical support.

[00139] Much like support assembly 100, support assembly 150 is provided with clamps 130 and various attachment members 118, 120 and horizontal bars 128. The various attachment members 118, 120 and horizontal bars 128 are secured to the pile assemblies 161a, 161b and 163a, 163b in the same manner than to pile assemblies 101a, 101b and 103a, 103b, respectively, where longitudinal brackets 158a and 158b accomplish the same functions than longitudinal brackets 108a, 108b while lateral brackets 160a, 160b play the same function than lateral brackets 110a, 110b. Thus, in some embodiments, the vertical spacing provided by the vertical support members 164 permits the attachment members 118, 120 to connect to the I-beams supported by adjacent piles at an angle to both the vertical axis of the piles and the longitudinal directions of the I-beams. In this manner, the attachment member 118 may optionally be connected to the top of the I-beam above the one or more vertical support members of the adjacent pile, to bias the I-beam downward onto the adjacent pile, and the bar 128 may maintain the distance from the I-beam 126 to the pile 102. [00140] As will be appreciated, the pile assemblies 202 and 222, 122, 124 may be part of an array of piles extending in the first and second directions for the distance required to support the structure supported by the I-beams 116, 126. In such an array, the connections between the piles and the I-beams may be reciprocal, for example the pile assemblies 202 and 222 and 122 have attachment members 118 connected to the I-beam supported by the piles 122 and 102, respectively. The pile assemblies 202 and 222 and 122 are also connected by a bar 128. The pile assemblies 202 and 222 and 124 each have an attachment member 120 connected to the I-beam 116 supported by the pile assemblies 202 and 222.

[00141] In some embodiments, the support assembly as described in the above embodiments is quick and inexpensive to install. In some embodiments, the support assembly as described provides structural support for the beams supported thereon, and thereby helps to stabilize the supported building against rocking, swaying, or other undesired movements.

[00142] Referring now to Figures 10 and 11, a support assembly 200 will be described in accordance with another embodiment. The support assembly 200 is suitable for supporting a manufactured home or other similar structure, as will be described.

[00143] Features of the support assembly 200 that are the same as corresponding features of the support assembly 100 are indicated with the same reference numbers.

[00144] The support assembly 200 comprises a plurality of pile assemblies 202, 222. The support assembly 202 is configured to support beams for a structure, such as I-beams 116 or 126. Each I-beam 116 or 126 extends longitudinally along the longer horizontal dimension of the supported structure (i.e., the longitudinal direction), and is supported by multiple piles assemblies 202 or 222 spaced apart along its length.

[00145] Pile assemblies 202 and 222 being identical, only pile assembly 202 will be described. It will be understood that a similar description also applies to pile assembly 222, or to other pile assemblies of a support assembly (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, pile assembly 202 comprises a lower pile segment 204, a mounting member 206 (or upper pile segment) receivable in the lower pile segment 204 and an extendable member 208 mounted to the mounting member 206 and holding of clamping members 210 fastened to the extendable member 208, for holding I-beam 116 or 126 thereto, similar to clamping members 143 of clamp 130 or pile head 156. Such a configuration of pile is described in U.S. Patent No. 11,299,863 by Reusing et al., entitled “Support assembly for a building structure”, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. Alternatively, each pile 102 may be a standard screw pile having a helical member (not shown) to allow insertion of the pile 102 into the ground surface. Alternatively, the pile 102 may be any other type of pile that a skilled addressee may consider to be appropriate.

[00146] To mount a beam (e.g., I-beam 116) to the pile assembly 202, the first segment 204 is fist installed in the ground at a desired location, and the mounting member 204 and extendable member 208 are then mounted on top of the first segment 202, at the desired height, and bolts or other types of fasteners used to maintain the mounting member 206 in vertical position relative to the first segment 204. The height of the extendable member 208 is adjusted by screwing or unscrewing the extendable member 208 relative to the mounting member 206 until a desired height is achieved. At that point, the clamping members 201 are moved and secured to secure the I-beam 116 or 126 to the extendable member 208.

[00147] In the illustrated embodiment, each I-beam 116 is further secured by one or more tie-down assemblies 212 along its length, as it will become apparent below.

[00148] In one embodiment, each tie-down assembly 212 comprises a reel 214 and a strap 216 windingly mounted in the reel 214. The strap comprises a first end 218 provided with a securing device (not shown) for securing the first end 218 of the strap 216 to a beam 116 or 126 and a second end 220 engaged in the reel 214 for allowing reeling of the strap 216 in the reel 214 and creating tension on the strap 216. In one embodiment, the strap 216 is a metal strap.

[00149] In the illustrated embodiment, a first reel 214 is mounted on the first segment 204 of a first pile assembly 202, and the strap 216 extends toward the I-beam 126 supported by the second pile assembly 222. A second reel 214 is mounted on the first segment 204 of the second pile assembly 222, and the metal strap 216 extends toward the I-beam 116 supported by the first pile assembly 202. each of the metal straps 216216 is secured to the I- beam 116 or at or near a point above the extendable member 208 (or pile head), and connected to the reel 214 supported on the corresponding pile 102 of the other I-beam. An example of the attachment of the metal strap 216216 to the I-beams 116 or 126 is shown in Figure 11. The reel 214 may be used for tensioning the metal strap 216 in a known manner to provide a stable connection and thereby stabilize the support assembly 200.

[00150] In some embodiments, each pile assembly 202 or 222 in the support assembly 200 is connected via a metal strap 216 to the opposite I-beam 116 at a point above the corresponding pile assembly 202 or 222. In some embodiments, only some of the pile assemblies 202 and 222 in the support assembly 200 are connected via a metal strap 216 to the opposite I-beam 116. For example, only the pile assemblies 202 and 222 at each end of each I-beam 116 or only every second pile assembly 202, 222 along the length of each I- beam may be connected via metal straps to the opposite I-beam in some embodiments.

[00151] In some embodiments, the metal straps 216 provide stability in tension between two opposite I-beams 116 or 126 and their supporting pile assemblies 202 or 222. In some embodiments, the additional stability is achieved with a simple design and installation that can reduce the cost of components and labor.

[00152] Referring to Figures 12 to 14, a support assembly 211 for supporting a manufactured home or other similar structure will be described in accordance with another embodiment. Features of the support assembly 211 that are the same as corresponding features of previously described support assemblies are indicated with the same reference numbers. In this embodiment, the support assembly 211 comprises pile assemblies 202 and 222 for supporting I-beam 116 and 126, respectively. The support assembly 210 further comprises auxiliary piles 224 and tie-down assemblies 226, each tie-down assembly 226 connecting one auxiliary pile 224 to one of the I-beams 116 or 126, as it will be described in greater details below.

[00153] In one embodiment, the auxiliary piles 224 are standard screw pile having a same size or a different size from the piles 101 or 122. The auxiliary pile 224 may be inserted into the ground at an angle, for example a 45° angle as shown, though other angles may be used. As it will become apparent, the fact that the auxiliary pile 224 is inserted into the ground at an angle provides with resistance of the auxiliary pile 224 against movement both horizontally and vertically. Each auxiliary pile 224 comprises a lower end 219 inserted in the ground and provided with a helical member 221 , and a top end 223 protruding above the ground. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 12 to 14, the auxiliary piles 224 are positioned into the ground between the I-beams 116 and 126 (i.e., below the manufactured home 10), with their top ends 223 extending toward the I-beams 116 or 126, in the direction of the exterior sides of the manufactured 10 (i.e., outwardly, from the center of the manufactured home). Provided on the top end of each auxiliary pile 224 is a real 214 and a strap 216, the strap 216 extending from the reel 214 and being attached to a corresponding beam 116 or 126.

[00154] Referring to Figures 15 and 16, an alternative embodiment is shown, with the auxiliary piles 224 oriented vertically instead of being oriented at an angle. A reel 214 is mounted on the top end 223 of the auxiliary pile 224, and a metal strap 216 extends between the reel 214 and a corresponding I-beam 116 or 126, as described above. In this example, each of the auxiliary piles 224 is provided with a cap 225 disposed thereon, the cap comprising a vertically extending surface. As such, the cap 225 exerts traction against the ground, which provides lateral stability to the top end 223 of the auxiliary pile 224, when the auxiliary pile 224 is inserted into the ground to the depth of the cap 225. The cap 225 thus provides lateral stability to withstand tension on the metal strap 216, thereby permitting the auxiliary pile 224 to be installed vertically in this embodiment.

[00155] Referring to Figures 17 and 18, an alternative embodiment is shown, with the I- beam 116 or 126 secured to the auxiliary piles 224 via brace members in the form of rigid rods 228, in a manner which will be described below in further detail. In this embodiment, as will be described, the rods 228 resist movement in both tension and compression, thereby stabilizing the supported structure against lateral forces in multiple directions. This may reduce the cost and complexity of providing a structure with sufficient stability to withstand external forces, compared to the use of metal straps 216 which may each only stabilize the structure in tension in a single direction.

[00156] Referring to Figure 19, the rod 228 comprises may be affixed to the top end 223 of auxiliary pile 224 in any suitable manner, such as via the bracket 209. The bracket 209 is preferably a single piece of material, for example welded together, including a threaded portion 209A for receiving the rod 228, a plate 209B, and a sleeve portion 209C which can be affixed to the top of the pile 224. The bracket 209 enables the rod 228 to be firmly affixed to the auxiliary pile 224, and thereby to transfer compression or tension forces on the manufactured home through the auxiliary pile 224 to the ground. In some embodiments, the rod 228 is aligned with a longitudinal axis of the auxiliary pile 224, such that the rod 228 and the auxiliary pile 224 are coaxial. Additional details of the bracket 209 and its attachment to the pile 224 can be found in U.S. Patent No. 9,631,335 by Reusing et al., entitled “Pile, Pile Head and Connector Therefor”, and in U.S. Patent No. 10,400,413 by Reusing et al., entitled “Pile, Pile Head and Connector Therefor”, both of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. The rod 228 may be affixed to an I-beam 116 or 126 via a bracket 232, which may be constructed of U-channel steel. The rod 228 may have a threaded portion 236 which may be used to affix the bracket 232 to the rod 228 using one or more threaded connectors 218. The bracket 232 may optionally have two spaced apart portions 223 (shown in Figure 17), which may in some examples provide for easier access to the threaded connectors 238 and/or improved structural support of the rod 228 compared to the single portion 233 as shown in Figure 19. The combined length of the rod 228 and the brackets 232 may be adjusted using the threaded connectors 238, to apply tension to the I-beam 116 or 126 through the bracket 232 and provide stability to the support assembly. The bracket 232 is secured to the I-beam 116, preferably to the top of the I-beam 116, by a suitable fastener such as the J-hook 234. In this manner, the top of the I-beam 116 or 126 is rigidly held between the J-hook 234 on one side and the bracket 232 on the other side, thereby permitting both tension and compression forces along the axis of the auxiliary pile 224 to be transferred between the rod 228 and the I-beam 116 or 126. In addition, the attachment to the top of the I-beam 116 or 126 mitigates the effects of instability due to flexion of an I-beam 116 that is only supported at the bottom, when the manufactured home is supported by the top of the I-beam 116 or 126. In this manner, the arrangement of Figures 17 to 19 is able to support the I-beam 116 or 126 whether the rod 228 is in tension or in compression, which may in some embodiments reduce the number of reinforcement structures required to provide adequate stability to a manufactured home, thereby reducing the cost and complexity of manufacture.

[00157] In the illustrated embodiment, multiple auxiliary piles 224 are spaced apart along the length of the I-beam 116, to provide multiple points of support to reinforce the support assembly 210. For example, an auxiliary pile 224 may be provided near each end of the I- beam 116 as shown in Figure 14, and additional auxiliary piles 224 may optionally be provided in between some or all of the pile assemblies 202 and 222. [00158] Referring to Figures 20 and 21, a support assembly 220 will be described. The support assembly 220 is suitable for supporting a manufactured home or other similar structure, as will be described. Features of the support assembly 220 that are the same as corresponding features of previously described support assemblies are indicated with the same reference numbers. In this embodiment, the support assembly 220 is configured to tie down manufactured homes with anchor cross-beams 21a-21c. More specifically, it is known that cross-beams of manufactured homes (e.g., cross-beams 20a-20h shown in Figure 1) have a sturdiness sufficient to support the manufactured home components mounted thereto but that they are too flimsy to serve as anchor points to tie down the manufactured homes to the ground. As such, using cross-beams of known manufactured homes as anchor points to tie down the manufacture home could result in the manufactured home being structurally damaged when it is subject to strong horizontal or vertical forces such as high winds encountered during tropical storms or hurricanes, or water capable of lifting buildings during floods.

[00159] Accordingly, in one embodiment, there is provided a manufactured home 240 provided with a pair of parallel longitudinal beams 116, 126 having first ends 12, 14 and second ends 16, 18, a plurality of conventional cross-beams 20a-20d distributed between the first and second ends 12, 14 of the longitudinal beams 116, 126, and a plurality of anchor cross-beams 21a-21c. While in the illustrated embodiment the manufactured home 240 is provided with two longitudinal beams 116, 126, it will be understood that it could be provided with a different number of longitudinal beams (e.g., a single longitudinal beam, or three or more longitudinal beams.). Likewise, the number of conventional cross-beams 20a- 20d and the number of anchor cross-beams 21a-21c could vary depending on the length of the manufactured home and anchor points required. For instance, in some embodiments, a single anchor beam (e.g., anchor beam 21a) could be sufficient. In other embodiments, two anchor cross-beams (e.g., anchor cross-beams 21a, 21b) could be provided, one anchor cross-beam being provided proximal to each of the first and second ends 12, 14 and 16, 18 of the longitudinal beams 116, 126.

[00160] While in the embodiment shown in Figure 20 the conventional cross-beams 20a- 20d and anchor cross-beams 21a-21c are shown to be mounted on top of the longitudinal beams 116, 126, it will be understood that they could be mounted differently. For instance, the cross-beams could be mounted below the longitudinal beams, or in horizontal alignment with the longitudinal beams 116, 126. Furthermore, to describe the following embodiments, reference will be made to various ways of tying down manufactured home 240 using anchor cross-beam 21a as anchoring or attaching point. It will be appreciated that a similar description would also apply when using anchor cross-beams 21b and/or 21c.

[00161] Accordingly, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 21, the support assembly 220 is supported by a plurality of support pile assemblies 202, 222, similar to pile assemblies 202, 222 described above, in connection with the embodiment shown in Figures 10 and 11. Each anchor cross beam 21a is secured by one or more metal straps 216 along its length, preferably including one metal strap 216 near each end thereof, spaced apart wider than the pile assemblies 202 and 222. Each of the metal straps 216 is secured to the anchor cross beam 21a, and connected to a reel 214 supported on an auxiliary pile 224, which may be a standard screw pile that is the same size or a different size from the pile assemblies 202 and 222. The reel 214 is preferably supported on atop end of the auxiliary pile 224, though other positions on the auxiliary pile 224 are possible.

[00162] The attachment of the metal strap 216 to the anchor cross beam 21a may be as shown in Figures 10 to 12, except that the first end 218 of the strap 216 is attached to the anchor cross beam 21a instead of being attached to one of the longitudinal beams 116 or 126. The second end 220 of the strap 216 is attached to the reel 214, which may be used for tensioning the metal strap 216 in a known manner to provide a stable connection and thereby stabilize the support assembly 220.

[00163] In some embodiments, multiple anchor cross-beams 21a-21c and pairs of auxiliary piles 224 are spaced apart along the length of the I-beams 116 and 126, to provide multiple points of support to reinforce the support assembly 220. For example, a anchor cross beam 21a-21c may be provided near each end 12, 16 of the I-beams 116 or ends 14, 18 of I-beam 126, and additional anchor cross beams may optionally be provided in between some or all of the pile assemblies 202 and 222. In some embodiments, the metal straps 216 provide stability in tension between each anchor cross-beams 21a and its auxiliary piles 224, thereby stabilizing the I-beams 116 or 126. In some embodiments, additional stability is provided with a simple design and installation that can reduce the cost of components and labor. [00164] Referring to now Figure 22, a support assembly 230 will be described. The support assembly 230 is suitable for supporting a manufactured home or other similar structure, as will be described. Features of the support assembly 230 that are the same as corresponding features of previously described support assemblies are indicated with the same reference numbers.

[00165] The support assembly 230 comprises a plurality of support pile assemblies 202 and 222, and support the longitudinal beams 116 and 126 in the same manner that support assembly 220. However, unlike support assembly 220 which makes use of auxiliary piles 224 to provide the tie-down assembly 212, the support assembly 230 rely on tie down assemblies 212 connecting the anchor cross-beams 21a-21c to the pile assemblies 202, 222. More specifically, the reels 214 of the tie-down assemblies 212 of support assembly 230 are mounted to the mounting member 206 of the pile assemblies 202, 222, proximal to the junction between the first pile segment 204 and the mounting member 206 of each pile assembly 202 or 222, and the straps 216 each extends between a portion of the anchor cross beam 21a and a corresponding reel 214. As such, each anchor cross beam 21a is secured by one or more metal straps 216 along its length, preferably including one metal strap 216 near each end thereof, spaced apart wider than the pile assemblies 202 and 222. The reel 214 may be used for tensioning the metal strap 216 in a known manner to provide a stable connection and thereby stabilize the support assembly 230.

[00166] In some embodiments, multiple cross-beams 21a-21c and pairs of metal straps 216 are spaced apart along the length of the I-beams 116 or 126, to provide multiple points of support to reinforce the support assembly 220. For example, a anchor cross beam 21a may be provided near each end of the I-beams 116, and additional cross beams 206 may optionally be provided in between some or all of the pile assemblies 202 and 222. In some embodiments, the metal straps 216 provide stability in tension between each anchor crossbeam 21a and the pile assemblies 202 and 222, thereby stabilizing the I-beams 116. In some embodiments, additional stability is provided with a simple design and installation that can reduce the cost of components and labor.

[00167] Referring to Figures 23 and 24, the anchor cross beam 21a may alternatively be fastened using metal straps 216 to an angled auxiliary pile 224 via a reel 214. In this or other embodiments, the anchor cross beam 21a, which may be part of the manufactured home, may be provided with a bracket 207 at each end that provides a reel attachment for the metal strap 216. The bracket 207 will be described below in further detail. In this embodiment, the auxiliary 224 piles are positioned outside the perimeter of the manufactured home 240, at an angle relative to the vertical, and with the top ends 67 thereof pointing toward the manufactured home 240.

[00168] Alternatively, the auxiliary piles 224 may be angled as shown in Figures 24 and 25. In this embodiment, the auxiliary piles 224 are mounted at an angle below the manufactured home, with their top end pointing toward the exterior sides of the manufactured home 240 (i.e., outwardly). In this and other embodiments where the reinforcing attachment is fastened to the bracket 207, the supported structure is reinforced at points that are spaced apart farther than the main pile assemblies 202 and 222 and I-beams 116, which may in some examples provide additional stability.

[00169] Referring to Figure 25, a bracket 207 is shown according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, the bracket 207 is mounted on a anchor cross beam 21a of the manufactured home 240. It is contemplated that one or more brackets 207 may be provided at or near the ends of one or more of the cross-beams 21a-21c that form part of the manufactured home 240, such that the manufactured home 240 may be conveniently fastened to one or more reinforcement structures such as metal straps 216 or rods 228 as described herein. The bracket 207 may be used to reinforce a manufactured home 240 as described and shown herein. In one embodiment, the bracket 207 may provide one or more reel attachments 242, preferably two reel attachments, for attaching one or more metal straps 216 thereto. In such an embodiment, the first end 218 of metal straps 216 may be engaged in reel 242 of the bracket 207 while the second end 220 thereof is engaged in reel 214 provided on auxiliary piles 224 (as seen in Figures 21, 23 and 24) or on pile assemblies 202, 222 (as seen in Figure 22). As such, the tension in the straps 216 can be adjusted reel 214, reel 242 or both. Alternatively, instead of or in addition of being provided with reels 242, the bracket 207 could be provided with bolts, holes or other types of anchors for receiving a hook (not shown) or similar devices provided at the first end 218 of the strap 216. In such a case, reels 214 provided on auxiliary piles 224 (as seen in Figures 21, 23 and 24) or on pile assemblies 202, 222 (as seen in Figure 22) would be used to adjust the tension on the straps 216. Conversely, when the bracket 207 is provided with reels, anchor points could be provided on auxiliary piles 224 (as seen in Figures 21, 23 and 24) or on pile assemblies 202, 222 (as seen in Figure 22) instead of reels 214. In this case, reels 242 of bracket 207 would be used to adjust tension on the straps 216.

[00170] As described herein, instead of, or in combination with reels 214 and straps 216, it is possible to use rods (e.g., rod 228 described below). As such, the bracket 207 may provide one or more attachments for fastening a bracket 232, for example via a hole for receiving one or more bolts 244, as it will be described in greater details below. It is contemplated that, depending on the structure to be secured and the degree of reinforcement desired, not all of the attachments of the bracket 207 might be used in some embodiments. Thus, the ability of the bracket 207 to accommodate multiple permutations of reinforcement structures permits a versatile assembly that can be adapted to a variety of scenarios and needs. However, it is contemplated that one or more of the attachment structures of the bracket 207 may optionally be omitted.

[00171] Referring to Figures 27 and 28, the anchor cross beam 21a may alternatively be fastened at each end using metal straps 216 to a vertical auxiliary pile 224 (as shown in Figure 21) and to the pile assemblies 202, 222, via reels 214 (as shown in Figure 22). In this or other embodiments, the anchor cross beam 21a may be provided with a bracket 207 at each end that provides a reel attachment for the metal straps 216. The anchor cross beam 21a may alternatively be fastened using metal straps 216 to an angled auxiliary pile 224 (as shown in Figures 21, 23 and 24) and to the pile assemblies 202, 222, via reels 214 (as shown in Figure 22). In this or other embodiments, the anchor cross beam 21a may be provided with a bracket 207 that provides a reel attachment for the metal strap 216.

[00172] In any of the support assemblies described herein, it is contemplated that the metal straps 216 may optionally be replaced by rigid rods 228, as will be described below. Referring to Figures 29 to 31, an example attachment is shown for affixing a rod 228 to a body of a pile 102. A bracket 250 is provided on the first segment 204 of the pile assembly 202 or 22, for receiving q threaded portion 252 of the rod 228. In the illustrated embodiment, each rod 228 is attached via a bracket 232 to an auxiliary pile 224 mounted below the manufactured home, at an angle, and extending outwardly, toward the exterior sides of the manufactured home 240. Threaded connectors 238 can be used as described above to adjust the effective length of the rod 228 as discussed above. It should also be understood that the rods 228 may be used in place of the metal straps 216 in any of the embodiments described above.

[00173] The embodiment of Figures 29 to 31 may be used to affix a main pile 102 to an auxiliary pile 224 via a rod 228 and a bracket 232, which may be an alternative or additional means of providing additional stability to any of the support assemblies described above. It is contemplated that any suitable method of affixing the rods 228 and brackets 232 to various other structures may be used, and additional methods may be apparent to persons skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the rods 228 may provide an additional benefit by stabilizing the support assembly in compression, compared to embodiments using metal straps 216 that operate primarily in tension. Thus, in the example of a strong wind exerting a lateral force on a manufactured home, all of the rods 228 and brackets act to stabilize the manufactured home. In contrast, a manufactured home stabilized by metal straps installed in a symmetrical arrangement would have some metal straps that are not able to stabilize the home because the direction of the lateral force causes the metal strap to slacken.

[00174] While in the previous embodiment, the systems and methods for tying down can be generally described as “frame anchor” tie downs, other embodiments contemplate “over- the-top” tie downs, alone or in combination with the “frame anchor” tie downs described above. Is such embodiments, straps 216 straps are positioned over the roof and siding of the manufactured home 240.

[00175] Hence, referring to Figures 32 and 33, in an alternative embodiment a manufactured home 240 or other structures can be secured to a support assembly via metal straps 216 attached to a bracket 207 mounted on a anchor cross beam 21a that may be a part of the manufactured home 240, and each end of the anchor cross beam 21a is fastened by one metal strap 216 to a respective auxiliary pile 224, as described above in connection with Figures 21, 23 and 24. In addition, a further metal strap 216 fastened to the bracket 207 at one end of the anchor cross beam 21a extends over the top of the manufactured home 240 to the bracket 207 at the other end of the anchor cross beam 21a.

[00176] Alternatively, and referring now to Figures 34 and 35, the anchor cross beam 21a may be fastened to the auxiliary piles 224 via brackets 212 and threaded rods 228, as described above in connection with Figures 18 and 19. Referring to Figures 36 and 37, the auxiliary piles 224 may alternatively be mounted outside the periphery of the manufactured home 240 at an angle, with their top ends pointing toward the manufacture home 240, as shown, and fastened with either metal straps (not shown) or brackets 212 and rods 228, as described above, still with a further metal strap 216 fastened to the bracket 207 at one end of the anchor cross beam 21a extends over the top of the manufactured home 240 to the bracket 207 at the other end of the anchor cross beam 21a..

[00177] In the embodiments of Figures 32 to 37, the metal straps 216 that extend over the top of the manufactured home may optionally be omitted, for example in areas where high winds and other risk factors are less likely or severe. Referring to Figure 38, an embodiment is shown corresponding to Figure 36 in which the metal straps 216 extending over the top of the top of the manufactured home are omitted. In this embodiment, the anchor cross-beams 21a-21c are reinforced by rods 228 affixed to angled auxiliary piles 224. The rods 228 are secured to the anchor cross-beams 21a-21c via brackets 232 in the manner described above. Referring to Figure 39, an embodiment is shown corresponding to Figure 34 in which the metal straps 216 extending over the top of the top of the manufactured home are omitted. In this embodiment, the anchor cross-beams 21a-21c are reinforced by rods 228 affixed to angled auxiliary piles 224. The rods 228 are secured to the anchor cross-beams 21a-21c via brackets 212 in the manner described above.

[00178] Referring to Figure 40, in an alternative embodiment a manufactured home 240 or other structures can be secured to a support assembly via a metal strap 216 that is fastened to an auxiliary pile 224 via a reel 214, extends over the top of the manufactured home 240, and is fastened at the other end to another auxiliary pile 224 on the opposite side of the manufactured home 240. The auxiliary piles 224 may be positioned outside the periphery of the manufactured home 240 and angled as shown, or may be placed at any other suitable angle. This embodiment is suitable for environments where particularly high wind is expected, and may be combined with any of the above embodiments.

[00179] At least some embodiments disclosed herein provide an advantage that the structure used to support the weight of the manufactured home is also used to stabilize the manufactured home against destabilizing forces such as wind that may act in a lateral direction. Thus, the manufactured home can be stabilized against wind in a cost-effective manner by a structure that has a relatively simple construction, and in some embodiments an additional structure is not needed to enable the manufactured home to withstand strong winds and other similar forces.

[00180] Referring to Figure 42, a method 300 of assembling a support assembly will be described.

[00181] At step 302, a helical pile is screwed into the ground at a site where a manufactured home is desired. Additional helical piles may also be screwed into the ground where needed, for example evenly spaced in a rectangular grid.

[00182] At step 304, a pile head including a platform is placed on top of the pile, for example by fitting a tubular sleeve of the platform over a top portion of the pile. The pile and the tubular sleeve may be any suitable shape, as described above. The platform includes a plurality of brackets.

[00183] At step 306, an attachment member such as a horizontal bar 128 is connected to the platform and to the platform of the next pile in a first direction, via brackets mounted on the platforms.

[00184] At step 308, at least one vertical support member is disposed on the top of the platform. The at least one vertical support member may include one or more cement blocks such as cinder blocks, or a vertical metal tube, or any other suitable structure.

[00185] At step 310, a beam-supported structure such as a manufactured home is placed on a top surface of the vertical support members, such that the beams are supported by the piles. The beams may be I-beams, as described above.

[00186] At step 312, metal straps are added to secure the beams to the brackets. It should be understood that rods may be used as an alternative to metal straps.

[00187] At step 314, the beams are fastened to the support assemblies via attachment members such as the attachment members 118, 120 described above. In particular, a first attachment member connects a first bracket to the beam supported by another pile located in the first direction defined by the bracket; and a second attachment member connects a second bracket to the beam supported by another pile located in the second direction defined by the second brackets. The beam connected to the second attachment member may also be supported by the support assembly to which the second attachment member is attached.

[00188] Referring to Figure 43, a method 400 of assembling a support assembly will be described.

[00189] At step 402, a helical pile is screwed into the ground at a site where a manufactured home is desired. Additional helical piles may also be screwed into the ground where needed, for example evenly spaced in a rectangular grid.

[00190] At step 404, a pile head including a platform is placed on top of the pile, for example by fitting a tubular sleeve of the platform over a top portion of the pile. The pile and the tubular sleeve may be any suitable shape, as described above. The platform includes a plurality of brackets.

[00191] At step 406, a beam-supported structure such as a manufactured home is placed on a top surface of the platform, such that the beams are supported by the piles. The beams may be I-beams, as described above.

[00192] At step 408, metal straps or rods are fastened to the beams, as discussed above.

[00193] At step 410, the metal straps or rods are fastened to a suitable portion of the support structure, to stabilize the beams. As discussed above, the portion of the support structure may be a pile, such as a pile supporting a beam or an auxiliary pile placed for the purpose of fastening the metal strap or rod.

[00194] Referring to Figure 44, a method 500 of assembling a support assembly will be described. The method 500 is suitable for supporting a beam-supported structure such as a manufactured home according to embodiments described herein.

[00195] At step 502, a helical pile is screwed into the ground at a site where the beam- supported structure is desired. Additional helical piles may also be screwed into the ground where needed, for example evenly spaced in a rectangular grid.

[00196] At step 504, one or more auxiliary piles are screwed into the ground, at an appropriate location and angle to be used for reinforcing the beam-supported structure. For example, the auxiliary piles may be installed at approximately a 45 degree angle to the vertical main piles. The auxiliary piles may have a pile head such as the bracket 209 described above. It should be understood that the installation of the main piles described at step 502 and the auxiliary piles may be performed in any suitable order.

[00197] At step 506, a beam-supported structure such as a manufactured home is placed on a top surface of the platform, such that the beams, for example the main longitudinal beams, are supported by the piles. The beam-supported structure may also include cross beams oriented transversely to the main longitudinal beams. The beams may be I-beams, as described above.

[00198] At step 508, the metal straps or rods are fastened to a suitable portion of the support structure, to stabilize the beams. As discussed above, the portion of the support structure may be a pile, such as a pile supporting a beam or an auxiliary pile placed for the purpose of fastening the metal strap or rod.

[00199] At step 510, the metal rods are fastened to the beams, as discussed above. The rods may be fastened to the cross-beams via brackets provided on the cross beams during the manufacture of the beam-supported structure. Alternatively, the rods may be fastened to the cross-beams via J-hooks or other fasteners adapted to attach to the cross-beams, for example to the top of the cross-beams. Additional brackets or attachment structures may be used, for example as described herein. It is contemplated that the rods may be fastened to the auxiliary piles and to the beams in any suitable order.

[00200] At step, the rods are optionally adjusted, for example using threaded fasteners, to provide the appropriate reinforcement for the beam-supported structure in both tension and compression of the rods. This step may not be performed separately if the fastening process at steps 508, 510 includes an adjustment process, or otherwise provides sufficient adjustment to result in the required configuration to stabilize the beam-supported structure.

[00201] The embodiments described above are intended to be examples only. The scope of the invention is therefore intended to be limited solely by the appended claims.