Abstract: An expandable multi-purpose utility shelter (10), designed in several sizes, which is quickly erectable by two to six persons, depending upon the size of the shelter. The structure has a sturdy metal frame (12, 16) with a durable fabric cover attached to the inside of the frame. The frame (12, 16) comprises a series of ribs (12) which can be very quickly and easily extended from a compact folded configuration needed for easy transportation to a full-size shelter at erection. Adjacent ribs (12) are connected by a single reinforcing member (16) or by X-shaped reinforcing members (16a) on each side of the shelter. These reinforcing members serve as force transmitting means for opening and closing the shelter (10) and keeping adjacent ribs (12) stabilized and spaced equidistant. Individual reinforcing members are pivotally connected to the lower portion of one shelter leg and rollably or slideably connected to the upper portion of a next adjacent shelter leg.

Abstract: An expandable multi-purpose utility shelter (10), designed in several sizes, which is quickly erectable by two to six persons. The structure has a sturdy metal frame (12, 16) with a durable fabric cover (11) attached to the inside of the frame. The frame (12, 16) comprises a series of ribs (12) which can be very quickly and easily extended from a compact folded configuration needed for easy transportation to a full sized shelter at erection. Adjacent ribs (12) are connected by a single reinforcing member (16) or by X-shaped reinforcing members (16a) on each side of the shelter. These reinforcing members serve as force transmitting means for opening and closing the shelter (10) and keeping adjacent ribs (12) stabilized and spaced equidistant. Individual reinforcing members (16 or 16a) are pivotally connected to the lower portion of one shelter leg and rollably or slidably connected to the upper portion of a next adjacent shelter leg.