Our group, Group 3B, is collaborating with two other teams to replace a damaged porch that is in very poor condition. We aim to create a safer and stronger design that includes a solid foundation, railing, roof, and a wheelchair-accessible ramp for a family with a young child who has Autism and ADHD.
For the Porch Wheelchair Access Project, our group, along with two other teams, was tasked with replacing an existing porch and designing a safer, more structurally sound front porch. The new design features an overhanging roof and a wheelchair access ramp for a family with a 6-year-old child who has level three Autism and ADHD. Our group focused primarily on creating a solid foundation, replacing the current porch, and constructing a railing that wraps around the porch. The existing porch is in very poor condition and requires full replacement. The goal for all three groups is to build a safe, well-structured porch that includes an overhead roof and a non-slip wheelchair ramp. This design also allows for future additions and accessories, such as a porch swing and a punching bag.
Foundation:
Porch Dimensions:
Railing:
Materials:
Safety:
For this project, our research mainly focused on various porch structures and designs, as well as the local building codes and permits required for construction. By reviewing different porch layouts, we gained a better understanding of how to meet the needs of this family. We took inspiration from the existing porch’s current layout, which we found to be simple, functional, and easy to improve upon, while also allowing for future expansion if desired by the family.
In addition to design considerations, we noted the importance of a sturdy and reliable foundation to ensure the porch would be built safely and correctly. We spent time researching different types of foundation designs, evaluating their advantages and disadvantages, to determine which option we believed would best meet the family’s needs. We also looked into construction methods to ensure that the porch structure would be securely connected, allowing it to remain safe and durable for many years.
Another important aspect of our research involved reviewing local building codes and regulations. Since the family’s home is located just within city limits, it was necessary to understand the inspection requirements and construction standards that must be followed for the structure to be approved. We also examined local regulations related to digging and foundation work to ensure that the foundation could be installed responsibly and in accordance with city guidelines.
Concept Design 1: Wraparound Porch
The porch would be an L-shaped structure on the right side of the house and would be free standing and separate from the main house structure. The stairs would be centered with the door to create a clear and welcoming entrance, with enough space on both sides for a porch swing, seating, or other features. The L shape extends along the side of the house to provide additional space for relaxing or gathering. This layout also allows for multiple possible starting points for a ramp, making it easier to place it in the most convenient location. Because the porch is free standing, it also allows for easier expansion or adjustments in the future if more space or accessibility features are needed
Concept Design 2: P-shaped
The concept design features a P-shaped porch that wraps around the front section of the house, creating a clear and structured outdoor area. The porch extends along the front and curves around to the side, providing a continuous walkway and additional usable space. This layout helps define the entrance while also offering room for seating or decorative elements. The house itself is positioned centrally within the design, with the porch framing the front to create a welcoming and balanced appearance. Overall, the concept focuses on a simple, functional layout that enhances both accessibility and the visual appeal of the home.
Concept Design 3: Standard Rectangle
The concept design shows a house with a front porch that extends outward from the main structure. The porch area is positioned along the front of the house and includes steps that lead down to the ground level, creating a clear entrance point. The layout keeps the house as the central feature while the porch provides a small outdoor space at the front. This design helps define the entrance and creates a simple, practical transition between the outside area and the interior of the home.
After a thorough team discussion and review of our decision matrix, we have selected and chosen to proceed with Concept Design 3. This design meets the needs requested by the family while also being the simplest, most adaptable for expansion, and cost-effective option.
Our chosen design, Concept Design 3, includes a 10′ by 20′ front porch that will feature a roof added by Group 3A and a wheelchair-accessible ramp constructed by Group 3C. Additionally, the design includes gate structures at both the left and right ends of the porch to provide access for individuals using the wheelchair ramp and those using the stairs. The porch will be built using pressure-treated lumber to ensure a sturdy and weather-resistant structure.
Structure Specifications:
Overall Size: 10′ x 20′
Foundation:
Gate Specifications:
For our first engineering analysis, we wanted to do a buckling analysis on the posts. Our team is responsible for setting the posts, so we needed to make sure that they are strong enough to support the roof design from group 3a. Using their design for the roof, we were able to fix the posts and run a buckling simulation on SolidWorks under the effects of gravity. As shown in the image, the posts are more than strong enough to support the roof.
For the second engineering analysis, we needed to make sure the deck was strong enough to support the weight of people standing on it. Using SolidWorks, we applied a 500-pound force to one side of the porch. We then ran a static simulation to see the effects of the force. As shown, there is very little deflection.
For the third engineering analysis, we wanted to make sure that the railings could handle load placed on it. Knowing that the family has a hyper child, it was important to us to make sure that the railings do not give out if someone were to lean on them. Similarly to the last analysis, we placed a 200-pound load on the railings and ran a static test on the SolidWorks model. The model showed little deflection which gives us confidence in the railings for the full build.
To conduct proper testing for the porch, we focused on several key areas. We tested the railings to ensure they could support the weight of someone leaning on them. We also checked that both the stair access gate and the wheelchair access gate could open and swing smoothly. Additionally, we evaluated the stairs to confirm they could be walked on without stability concerns and tested the stair railings to ensure they could support weight in case someone needed assistance while climbing. Finally, we inspected the entire porch to identify any weak spots or areas of concern. After all the evaluations, we collectively agreed that the porch met all safety requirements and passed the tests, confirming it could be used to its full capabilities.
For this project, there are a few important safety instructions to follow. The porch has been well-built and is designed to be durable for many years. Below are some basic guidelines to ensure safety and proper care of the porch:
1. When using the stairs, it is recommended to use the installed handrails for stability and to reduce the risk of falling.
2. Avoid leaning fully against the railing, as this could increase the risk of failure and may lead to a fall.
3. For additional safety, ensure that all walkways are regularly cleared of debris, leaves, and other tripping hazards.
4. Inspect wood and concrete surfaces for damage at least once a year.
The family will receive an exterior wood stain and sealer in one, which should be applied to extend the lifespan of the wood and protect the porch from moisture, rot, and UV damage. Future maintenance will involve re-coating every 1 to 3 years, depending on wear and sun exposure.
Reflecting on this project, we are all extremely grateful for the opportunity it provided. It has been a wonderful experience to give back to the community by supporting a family in need. Throughout this semester, we worked as a team with a clear goal in mind, which allowed us to realize our vision for the porch and even expand upon our initial ideas. We faced various challenges along the way, including design complications, procurement issues, and construction difficulties. However, we overcame these obstacles and grew not only as a team but also as students aspiring to be engineers. The skills we developed this semester, especially in communication and problem-solving, will be invaluable as we encounter similar situations in our future careers. In the end, we successfully designed and constructed a new front porch for this family, creating a lasting addition that they will enjoy for years to come.
