CURTAIN SNIFFER

Abstract

A system comprising a rotatable spool, an engine configured to impart torque on the spool via a drive shaft, a cord attached to the spool, and a curtain attached to the cord is disclosed. Moreover, a method comprises releasing a curtain from a hanging support, and pulling a curtain. Also disclosed is a system comprising a plurality of hangers from which a curtain is capable of being released, a spool to which a cord is attachable, an engine capable of causing the spool to be rotated, and a rim through which the cord is pulled.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of Invention

This invention relates to curtains, and in particular to stage curtains often used in entertainment productions.

2. Description of the Related Art

Curtain retraction systems are known in the related art. Some non-limiting examples include: U.S. Pat. Nos. 516,018, 1,084,781, 1,407,248, 1,651,985, 1,894,833, 1,900,677, 2,002,268, 2,420,301, 2,676,654, 3,075,805, 3,092,174, 3,141,497, 3,310,099, 4,062,519, 4,828,003, 4,850,415, 4,919,186, 5,029,629, 5,092,382, 5,430,980, 6,283,192, 6,736,184, 7,128,122, 7,287,570, 7,703,499; Great Britain Pat. No. 190726231, and Japan Pat. Nos. 2002-078603 and 2005-049531.

Retracting a curtain is referred to as a “Kabuki drop” or “Kabuki effect” in the related art. A curtain cropping from a conventional system can take several seconds to disappear, typically at least 4-6 seconds. Conventional curtain drop or pull systems suffer from slow withdrawal of the curtain from the audience's view. Conventional curtain drop systems consistently suffer from slow disappearance speeds, and thus have a lesser dramatic effect.

Tube-shaped systems called “curtain sniffers” or “curtain sniffters” are known in the related art. For example, a large 20-foot tube into which a curtain is pulled is known in the related art as a conventional sniffter. Such tube-based sniffters can be used to contain a curtain after it is dropped. Conventional tube systems in stage production range from 20′ to 40′ in length, typically having a diameter of about 30″. Some tubes have a 90-degree elbow where the curtain is pulled into first, adding to the cumbersome size. Small tubes are less desirable due to inability to fully withdraw a curtain. Conventional tube-based curtain withdrawal systems are typically bulky and thus difficult to transport, not fitting on a standard shipping pallet. Such systems can also be difficult and cumbersome to set up and take down.

Some motorized curtains are known in the related art. Such curtains can be opened or closed, typically along a rail. However, conventional rail-based curtain systems do not permit removal of the curtain from the path of the rail.

Sandbags and weights are also known in the related art. Weights are known especially in curtain pulley systems. However, conventional gravity-based approaches can be limited to the force generated by a sandbag weight, in turn limiting curtain velocity. Some curtains are heavy and require a large force and thus numerous sandbags or weights would be required by such conventions, which can be cumbersome or dangerous when seeking to rapidly pull a heavy curtain, or when seeking to pull a curtain in an unusual direction.

A horizontal pole from which to hang a curtain is also known in the related art. In some lesser known vaudeville acts, the curtain was hung from a horizontal pole which attached to a sandbag; when the sandbag dropped, the pole shot out sideways to allow the curtain to then drop by the weight of gravity, then lacking hanging support. However, such approaches can be disruptive or harmful.

Thus, it can be seen that there is a need to provide a system which can quickly move a heavy stage curtain in an instant, without dropping a sandbag, without damaging the curtain so it can be reused, and which can be transported on a standard shipping pallet. Further, it can be seen that there is a need to pull a curtain far more rapidly than gravity-based mechanisms, particularly with larger or heavier curtains. Moreover, it can be seen that there is a need to more rapidly pull a curtain away from the floor after it has dropped. In addition, it can be seen that there is a need to provide a more far more compact, modular system to make a curtain disappear, while minimizing interference with other stage designs. Furthermore, it can be seen that drawing a curtain in an unconventional manner to reveal or what is behind a curtain can enhance dramatic effect from the audience's perspective. Finally, it can be seen that there is a need to address all of the aforementioned issues, alone or in any combination.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To minimize the limitations in the prior art, and to minimize other limitations that will become apparent upon reading and understanding the present specification, the present invention discloses a system comprising a curtain, the curtain being capable of being connected to a hanger, and a cord attached to the curtain, where the curtain is capable of being triggerably released from the hanger is disclosed. Further, the present invention discloses a system comprising a rotatable spool, an engine configured to impart torque on the spool via a drive shaft, a cord attached to the spool, and a curtain attached to the cord. Moreover, a method comprising releasing a curtain from a hanging support, and pulling a curtain via a cord attached to the curtain is disclosed. The description of the preferred embodiments is to be understood as non-limiting examples of the present invention. The true scope of the invention is to be understood by the claims and not limited by the preferred embodiments.

An aspect of the present invention is to provide a release mechanism capable of dropping a curtain.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a more powerful engine-based pulling mechanism capable of pulling a curtain.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to remotely triggerable release followed by remotely activated engine-imparted pulling of the curtain.

In a possible embodiment, a curtain can be released from a remotely triggerable hanger, and the curtain can then be pulled by a cord attached to a motorized spool.

It is an object of the present invention to pull a curtain out of sight. It is another object of the invention to impart more rapid, powerful force on a curtain as it is drawn, making for a faster, and more dramatic effect. It is still another object of the present invention to quickly and effectively release a curtain from being hung, such that the curtain can be immediately thereafter pulled into a compartment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring now to the drawings in which like reference numbers represent corresponding parts throughout:

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates an overall perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 illustrates a view of a released state of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates a method diagram of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 illustrates a detail cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention showing a hanger with an attached curtain;

FIG. 8 illustrates a detail cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention showing a hanger after the curtain is released;

FIG. 9 illustrates an overall view of an embodiment of the present invention, after the curtain is released from a hanger;

FIG. 10 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present invention where the curtain is attached to a hanger;

FIG. 11 illustrates a closed view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention with funnel;

FIG. 12 illustrates an open view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention with funnel;

FIG. 13 illustrates an open view of an embodiment of the present invention with a funnel stored in the shell;

FIG. 14 illustrates a top view of a frame of a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 illustrates an angled view of a frame of a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 illustrates a side view of a frame of a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 illustrates an end view of a frame of a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 illustrates a top view of a top frame of a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19 illustrates a side view of a top frame of a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20 illustrates a bottom view of a top frame of a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 21 illustrates a top view of a bottom frame of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22 illustrates a side view of a bottom frame of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23 illustrates a flat view of an inside wall frame of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 24 illustrates a side view of an inside wall frame of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 25 illustrates an end view of an inside wall frame of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 26 illustrates an angled view of a rig plate of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 27 illustrates an angled view of a rig plate of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 29 illustrates a side view of a rig plate of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 30 illustrates a top view of a motor frame of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 31 illustrates an angled perspective view of a motor frame of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 32 illustrates a flat view of a motor frame of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 33 illustrates an end view of a motor frame of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 34 illustrates an overall view of a motor mount plate of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 35 illustrates a spool drive axis mount plate of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 36 illustrates an overall view of a side attachment plate of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 37 illustrates an overall view of another side attachment plate of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 38 illustrates an overall view of an attachment plate of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 39 illustrates an overall view of a control box mount plate of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 40 illustrates an overall view of another rig plate of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 41 illustrates an overall view of a motor mount plate of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 42 illustrates a side view of a portion of a motor drive axis of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 43 illustrates an overall angle view of a motor drive axis of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 44 illustrates a flat side view of a motor drive axis of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 45 illustrates an end view of a motor drive axis of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 46 illustrates an overall view of a spool drive axis of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 47 illustrates a flat view of a support sprocket of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 48 illustrates an overall view of a spool drive sprocket of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 49 illustrates a side view of a bolt spacer of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 49B illustrates a flat view of a washer of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 50 illustrates an angled view of a spool of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 51 illustrates an open strut view of a spool of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 52 illustrates a flat view of a spool plate of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 53 illustrates a flat view of the transverse plane of a spool strut of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 54 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of a spool strut of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 55 illustrates a side view of a spool strut of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 56 illustrates a side view of a guide of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 57 illustrates an angled view of a shield of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 58 illustrates a flat side view of a shield of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 59 illustrates a side view of a shield of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 59B illustrates an inside view of a shield of a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 60 illustrates a flat view of an angle bracket of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 61 illustrates an angled view of an angle bracket of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 62 illustrates a side view of an angle bracket of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 63 illustrates an end view of an angle bracket of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 64 illustrates an overall view of a funnel of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 65 illustrates an angled view of a female funnel knuckle of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 66 illustrates a top view of a female funnel knuckle of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 67 illustrates a flat view of a female funnel knuckle of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 68 illustrates a side view of a male funnel knuckle of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 69 illustrates a side view of a male funnel knuckle of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 70 illustrates a flat view of a male funnel knuckle of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 71 illustrates an angled view of a male funnel knuckle of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 72 illustrates a side view of a male funnel knuckle of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 73 illustrates a top view of a top channel of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 74 illustrates an angled view of a top channel of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 75 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a top channel of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 76 illustrates an end view of a top channel of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 77 illustrates a top view of a bottom channel of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 78 illustrates an angled view of a bottom channel of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 79 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a bottom channel of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 80 illustrates an end view of a bottom channel of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 81 illustrates a side view of an end frame of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 82 illustrates a side view of an end frame of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 83 illustrates a side view of an end frame of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 84 illustrates a side view of an end frame of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 85 illustrates a side view of an end frame of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 86 illustrates a flat view of an end panel of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 87 illustrates a side view of an end frame of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 88 illustrates a side view of an end frame of an embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 89 illustrates a circuit diagram of an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the following description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

References throughout the specification to “an embodiment,” “a preferred embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “an embodiment,” and like reference to “embodiment” are non-limiting examples to aid in understanding an element, function, way, result, means, structure, aspect, and/or benefit of the present invention. An “embodiment” provides that there is one or more embodiments that can involve the given element or aspect of the invention. Thus, multiple instances of “an embodiment” and like reference do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

It will be understood that the terms “behind” or “behind-the-curtain” need not be limited to a particular location when the phrase is used in connection with the orientation of the present invention. The phrase “behind-the-curtain” can facilitate preliminary understanding or clarification and does not necessarily fix the location, size, direction, or orientation of any particular element. The presence or absence of a physical stage (I) and support (II) are not, and is not intended as, and shall not be interpreted as a limitation of the present invention as claimed. “Behind” or “behind-the-curtain” does not, for example, apply when either side of a curtain can provide a view of a performance. This can be particularly applicable in situations where the line between audience and performer are blurred.

It will be understood that “attached” when used in reference to cord 102 can include any number of intermediate media between cord 102 and the object to which cord 102 is attached.

It will be understood that “attached” when used in reference to funnel 300 can include by way of non-limiting illustration: reattachable, removably attached, detachable, or permanently attached.

It will be understood that all elements and combinations of elements described herein also include any equivalents thereof, now known or future-developed, and thus such description should not be considered limiting as any embodiments of the present invention.

SPECIFICS OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention. Curtain 100 is shown in FIG. 1, with cord 102, eyelet 104, and ring 106.

Curtain 100 can be made of cloth, whether synthetic, natural, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, curtain 100 is not a Venetian blind. In an embodiment, curtain 100 can serve as at least a partial divider from a viewing angle to any position upon, above, or below a stage (FIG. 3, Roman numeral I). Curtain 100 can be transparent, opaque, partially transparent, or partially opaque. Curtain 100 can further have a rigid component, by way of non-limiting illustration: rivets, grommets, rings, loops, hooks, or otherwise. Curtain 100 can fully or at least partially obscure a portion of a stage of any object of person between a viewing area and a stage area. At least one curtain can be connected to at least one release. Curtain 100 can drop from hanger 500. There can be an at least one curtain 100. A plurality of hangers 500 can support curtain 100 (FIG. 5). The present invention can be used singularly or in plural.

Cord 102 can be a length of cord, synthetic or natural, woven or non-woven, metal or plastic chain, or any combination thereof. Cord 102 can be attached to curtain 100. At least one cord 102 can be attached to curtain 100. Cord 102 can be attached to curtain 100 at one end, and to spool 206 at the opposite end. Cord 102 can be wound via spool 206. Cord 102 can be capable of being wrapped around spool 206. Cord 102 can be attached to spool 206. Cord 102 can be pulled by engine 200, thus pulling curtain 100. Cord 102 can be pulled into funnel 300. Cord 102 can be around a spool 206 as cord 102 is pulled into funnel 300. Cord 102 can thereby retract curtain 100. In an embodiment, cord 102 can be centrally attached to curtain 100 with respect to any orientation, preferably centrally across the horizontal axis while curtain 100 is in a hanging position. In an embodiment, cord 102 can be attached below the midpoint of the height of curtain 100. Cord 102 can be vertically centered, horizontally centered, both vertically and horizontally centered upon curtain, or in some possible embodiments, arbitrarily connected to any other place on curtain 100. Placement of cord 102 on curtain 100 and overall placement of shell 202 and/or engine 200 with spool 206 can produce a desired direction into which curtain 100 can be pulled, thereby providing a range of options for visual presentation when curtain 100 is pulled. In an embodiment, cord 102 can be attached to a lower portion of curtain 100, such that as the upper portion of curtain 100 falls, the lower portion can be pulled via cord 102. Pulling curtain 100 can occur at any time before, during, or after release; in some preferred embodiments, pulling 602 can occur after release 600. In an embodiment, cord 102 can be pulled by engine 200 (FIG. 2). The presence or absence of cord 102 does not preclude the presence or absence of any other attachments to curtain 100. Cord 102 can be attached to a draped portion of curtain 100. In some possible embodiments, cord 102 can be attached to eyelet 104 or ring 106. In an embodiment, cord 102 can be tied to curtain 100 via a loop attached to curtain 100. In an embodiment, cord 102 can run through any number of intermediate pulleys.

Eyelet 104 can be a negative space to facilitate hanging of curtain 100. Eyelet 104 can be absent or embedded in curtain. Eyelet 104 can be an opening, loop, hole, sleeve, or any portion of curtain 100 complementary to hanger 500 or any intermediate component. Eyelet can be elliptical, rectangular, or irregular in shape. Eyelet 104 can be part of curtain 100, or a loop attached to curtain 100. Eyelet 104 can have a border to help resist wear and tear on curtain 100. In some possible embodiments, eyelet 104 can facilitate attachment to hanger 500 without ring 106. A benefit of eyelet 104 can be to provide negative space by which curtain 100 can be attachable or releasable. In another embodiment, eyelet 104 can be formed by a flap folded over attached on curtain 100, with ring 106 in the eyelet 104; ring 106 can be attachable to hanger 500 via solenoid 502 (FIG. 5).

Ring 106 can be a metal ring, hook, curved shape, or any rigid portion by which curtain 100 can be hung or otherwise complementary to hanging or releasing via hanger 500. Ring 106 need not be fully closed, and need not be an elliptical loop. In an embodiment, ring 106 need not be fully closed initially to allow curtain 100 to be placed on ring 106, after which ring 106 can be physically closed or overlapped so as to better secure curtain 100. Ring 106 can be absent. Eyelet 104 and ring 106 can be absent. Ring 106 need not be present. However, in embodiments where ring 106 is present, ring 106 can be pulled along with curtain if ring is the attachment to hanger 500. A benefit of ring 106 can be to provide a cleaner, more definitive release mechanism in conjunction with hanger 500.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of an embodiment of the present invention. Engine 200 is shown in FIG. 2, with shell 202, spool drive axis 204, spool 206, curtain 100, cord 102, eyelet 104, and ring 106.

Engine 200, in a preferred embodiment, can be an electrically powered motor. In a preferred embodiment, engine 200 can comprise an at least four-horsepower motor. Engine 200 can be used to impart a pulling force instead of the dropping of a sandbag. Engine 200 can have a motor drive axis via spool drive axis 204 can impart torque. Engine 200 can be attached to cord 102 directly or indirectly, for example, via spool drive axis 204 having spool 206 affixed thereto, where spool 206 can rotate when engine 200 causes spool drive axis 204 to rotate. Engine 200 can rotatably pull curtain 100 via cord 102. By way of non-limiting illustration, engine 200 can be a five-horsepower engine. Engine 200 can pull cord 102. Engine 200 can generate power to pull cord 102. A benefit of engine 200 is to pull curtain 100 quickly, for example, before curtain 100 drops. Another benefit of engine 200 over a dropped weight can be to more rapidly pull curtain 100 while mitigating the risk of harm caused by a dropping weight or sandbag. Yet another benefit of engine 200 can be to provide the capability of unwinding curtain 100 for reuse by slowly imparting reverse torque on spool 206. Engine 200 can be time-coded by a programmable logic controller (PLC) to execute various speeds, and can provide gradual increase and decrease in acceleration, for example, to affect spool 206. In a preferred embodiment, engine 200 can be a model EBM3625T available from Baldor Electric Company of Fort Smith, Ariz.; two motor drive sprockets 1214 can be SKU No. D50B12 from Martin Sprocket & Gear Inc. of Arlington, Tex. and pushed tightly to the shaft shoulder on the engine 200 and chained to the spool drive axis 204 via spool drive sprocket 4800; and a shaft collar 4604, SKU No. 6436K19 on a 1.125″ diameter shaft of engine 200. In a preferred embodiment, engine 200 can have an engine case 7.875″ diameter, 8.656″ high, 10.168″ wide, and 19.088″ long without the motor drive shaft, or 22.645″ long with the motor drive shaft.

Engine 200 is also shown in FIGS. 42, 43, and 44.

Shell 202, in many embodiments, can be a three-dimensional structure which has volume, whether box or non-box shaped, having a frame or no frame. Shell 202 can have inner and outer surfaces. In a preferred embodiment, shell 202 can have frame 1400. Shell 202 can have one or more openings allowing curtain 100 to be drawn into shell 202, for example, via funnel 300 or rim 302. Shell 202 can enclose one or more objects, for example: engine 200, spool drive axis 204, spool 206, fabric protector 208. At least one opening of shell 202 can be formed wholly or partially by rim 302. Shell 202 can be on support II. In an embodiment, shell 202 can be above stage I. By way of non-limiting illustration, shell 202 can have rim 302 through which the cord can be pulled, without funnel 300. In most preferred embodiments, curtain 100 is not directly retracted into shell 202 in box form, but rather via rim 302 at the opening end of funnel 300. In an embodiment, shell 202 can simply be a facade or a flat wall rather than an encompassing enclosure. Shell 202 can be obscure at least a portion of at least one element of the present invention from at least one viewing angle, wholly or partially. It will be understood that a “shell” when used in reference to the present invention shall mean a housing, compartment, enclosure, one or more flat surfaces, a curved surface, a surface having one or more angles, whether or not the “shell” forms a closed structure around any object, thus providing a measure of protection or at least partial enclosure. By way of non-limiting illustration, shell 202 can protect: engine 200, spool drive axis 204, or spool 206. Shell 202 can protect spool drive axis 204, engine 200, and spool 206. In an embodiment, before curtain 100 is pulled, shell 202 can form a plane in any orientation; shell 202 can have an opening through which cord 102 can be pulled, and curtain 100 can be on a side of the opening of shell 202—by way of non-limiting illustration, the opening formed by rim 302. On the opposite side of the plane formed by rim, there can be spool 206, the pulling side. In some embodiments, the pulling side can be inside shell 202. Shell 202 can have acoustic treatment, insulation, or cushioning. Shell 202 can provide protection for engine 200 and spool 206 in the event of impact and can reduce chances of interference with the present invention during a performance, by way of non-limiting illustration, on stage I, or in front of, adjacent to, or behind curtain 100. In a preferred embodiment, shell 202 can comprise a box shape and dimensions which can be loaded easily on a pallet. Shell 202 can have a separate compartment to store funnel 300. Shell 202 can have wheels underneath, including but not limited to fabric protector 208 in wheel form. Wheels on shell 202 can serve to protect curtain 100 from tearing, when portions of curtain 100 flap toward or upon shell 202 during rapid movement; curtain 100 having momentum can touch upon wheels instead of corners of a box-shaped shell 202, or otherwise sharp portions of shell 202. In some embodiments with wheels, a benefit of wheels can be to easily roll shell 202 with engine 200 and spool 206 quickly and efficiently for production set-up. In an embodiment, shell 202 with wheels can be rolled to and from desired locations, by way of non-limiting illustration, off a pallet and onto a truck, then into a concert hall and onto a stage below a truss, then off to another pallet easily loaded onto any mode of transportation, to travel via air, land, or sea. Further, shell 202 can have fabric draped past any sharp portions or corners of shell 202, thus further protecting curtain 100 from tearing or damage. Shell 202 can be one or more pieces. Shell 202 can have one or more compartments. In a preferred embodiment, shell 202 can have a frame with supporting struts (FIGS. 14-19) and mounting holes 2602 spaced in rig plates 2600 on top of shell 202. Mounting holes 2602 can be used to attach to support II with various sizes, preferably spaced at 12″ and 18″ intervals with wider sets of holes for any other spacing. Shell 202 can comprise end frame 8100. In a preferred embodiment, fabric protector 208 can be four 5×2 black swivel castors on one side of shell 202, preferably underneath shell 202 such that funnel 300 when removed can permit shell 202 to be rolled to another location and quickly packed. In a possible embodiment, shell 202 can comprise funnel 300. Shell 202 can at least be a wall. In a preferred embodiment, shell 202 can have a path formed by funnel 300, shield 1200, gap 5704, and guide 5600, through which curtain 100 can be moved onto spool 206.

Spool drive axis 204 can be attached to engine 200. Spool drive axis 204 can be chained to a sprocket rotated by engine 200. By way of non-limiting illustration, spool drive axis 204 can use the force generated by engine 200 to impart torque. Thus, rotation can be applied to spool 206. Spool drive axis 204 can comprise at least one spool drive sprocket 4800 (FIGS. 12, 45, 46, 48). There can be a plurality of spool drive sprockets 4800, preferably at least two. In a preferred embodiment, spool drive axis 204 can be chained to engine 200 via at least one sprocket. Spool drive axis 204 can comprise a shaft, the shaft being keyed, with 1.175″ diameter×30.0″. There can be two support sprockets 4700 (FIGS. 45, 46, and 47), preferably from Martin Sprocket & Gear Inc. of Arlington, Tex. model 40BS48 with a at least one bore 4702, preferably four equidistant bores 4702 each having a diameter of 1.1875″ peripherally around the central hole 4704, where each support sprocket 4700 can receive a plurality of bolts 4504 each through bore 4702. Bolt 4504 can be any known bolt, preferably, by way of non-limiting illustration, ½″-13×1.50″ Grade 8 bolts with washers 4902 and nuts, a total of eight bolts 4504 with four bolts 4504 per each support sprocket 4700.

Spool 206 can be any rotatable volume, cylindrical or non-cylindrical. Spool 206 can comprise a first spool plate 5000 (FIGS. 50-52), with a plurality of spool struts 5300 transverse to the plane of spool plate 5000 and connected to a parallel spool plate 5000. A benefit of spool 206 can be to help avoid losing cord 102 or curtain 100 as it is pulled to be wound upon spool 206. Spool 206 can be motorized, for example, by engine 200. A benefit of spool is to gather cord 102 onto the spool 206 when engine 200 pulls curtain 100, so that curtain 100 can be more controllably directed during and/or after pulling curtain 100 is complete. Spool 206 can have cord 102 attached thereto, such that when spool 206 pulls cord 102, cord 102 can wrap around spool 206. Spool 206 can even wrap curtain 100 since cord 102 is connected thereto. There can be any number of intermediate connectors in conjunction with cord 102, such as a chain connected to cord 102 and spool 206. There can be any number of intermediate pulleys, or no pulleys. In embodiments where funnel 300 is present, spool 206 can receive cord 102 as rim 302 helps gather cord 102 and subsequently curtain 100. In embodiments where spool 206 is within shell 202, a benefit of having spool 206 within shell 202 is to provide a compact, efficient setup and takedown. In a preferred embodiment, spool 206 can comprise two opposing spool plates 5300 with a plurality of spool struts 5300 between each of the spool plates 5300. In a possible embodiment, spool 206 can rotate such that a large stage curtain is spooled in less than three seconds. A benefit of the present invention can be to quickly pull curtain 100 faster than has been done before with conventional means, particularly with a heavier or larger curtain. In a preferred embodiment, funnel 300 can be 0.125″ aluminum shaped conically with a smaller opening having a 12.320″ diameter which can open into shell 202 and a larger opening at rim 302 having a 22.000″ inner diameter, and the outer diameter of rim 302 being 26.000″ due to an aluminum tube formed at an opening of funnel 300, the opening being the larger opening; further, funnel attachments 6500 can be recessed 0.983″ from the smaller opening, on the outer surface of funnel 300. In a preferred embodiment, spool 206 can have spool plates 5000 spaced 19.500″ between the inner portions of each spool plate 5000, each spool plate being 0.250″ thick, the outer distance can be 20.000″.

Fabric protector 208 can be any non-sharp surface, metal or non-metal, fabric or non-fabric, wheel or non-wheel. A benefit of fabric protector 208 can be to provide a surface upon which curtain 100 may touch while being moved, but while touching upon fabric protector 208, curtain 100 or cord 102 is less likely to be torn or snagged, or otherwise damaged—thus enhancing reusability of curtain 100. By way of non-limiting illustration, fabric protector 208 can be a wheel, fabric, or a non-sharp corner. In an embodiment where shell 202 is box-shaped, fabric protector 208 can be a plurality of wheels on shell 202 each upon a corner underneath shell 202. In experimentation, it was determined that having shell 202 with corners and no fabric protector 208 such as wheels can result in damage to curtain 100 or cord 102; thus, curtain 100 or cord 102 may not be in suitable condition for reuse in such inferior embodiments. Fabric protector 208 can help avoid curtain 100 from ripping against shell 202, or from damaging components within shell 202. Fabric protector can be inside shell, outside shell, or both. In some embodiments where curtain 100 is pulled upward into funnel 300, shell 202 can have more than one type of fabric protector 208: at least one wheel and a downwardly extending shroud extending below each wheel to provide further protection for curtain 100. In a preferred embodiment, velcro 1212 (FIG. 12) can be present along with fabric protector 208 in the form of wheels.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of another embodiment of the present invention. Funnel 300 is shown in FIG. 3, with rim 302, curtain 100, cord 102, eyelet 104, ring 106, engine 200, shell 202, spool drive axis 204, spool 206, stage I, and support II.

Funnel 300 can be a hollowed area, funnel-shaped or non-funnel-shaped. Funnel 300 can be any hollowed shape, by way of non-limiting illustration: cylindrical, block-shaped, conical, funnel-shaped, or tunnel-like. Funnel 300 can have an outer opening at which rim 302 can be formed. Funnel 300 can have an inner opening at which funnel 300 can be attachable to shell 202. Funnel 300 can provide space through which cord 102 can be pulled. A benefit of funnel 300 can be to facilitate obscuring curtain 100 after being released 600 from hanger 500. A benefit of funnel 300 can be to aid in gathering curtain 100, for example, prior to spooling curtain 100. Funnel 300 need not be oriented downward, but may be in any direction. Some non-limiting examples of funnel 300 position can be below curtain 100, behind curtain 100, in front of curtain 100, to one side of curtain 100, or at any angle from curtain 100, meaning from any angle formed by an outer sphere peripheral to curtain. In a preferred embodiment, funnel 300 can be above and centrally positioned behind curtain 100. Funnel 300 can have rim 302 at an opening end. In a preferred embodiment, funnel 300 can be tapered at which the opening can have rim 302. Cord 102 can be pulled into funnel 300. Funnel 300 can be attached to shell 202. In an embodiment, funnel 300 can be an extension of shell 202. In an embodiment, funnel 300 can be removable from shell 202 to give greater access to spool 206 and curtain 100. In a preferred embodiment, funnel 300 can have a wider opening at rim 302 and a narrower portion. In a possible embodiment, funnel 300 can have a 30″ diameter. An inner curve or incline can be inside funnel 300 such that the inside of funnel 300 forms a reverse funnel shape with a wider opening toward the entry direction of curtain 100 when pulled toward shell 202. In a possible embodiment, funnel 300 can have a polycarbonate surface. In a preferred embodiment, funnel 300 can be removed and placed in a compartment within shell 202 via door 1104 (FIGS. 12, 87, and 88). In an embodiment, funnel 300 can extend into shell 202 partially or fully.

Rim 302 can be made of any rigid material, metallic or non-metallic, alloy or non-alloy. Rim 302 can be narrower than the entirety of shell 202, and preferably narrower than the inner opening of funnel 300. A benefit of rim 302 can be to provide curtain management. By way of non-limiting illustration, rim 302 can facilitate gathering curtain 100 onto spool 206, which can be large and unmanageable, before pulling curtain 100 into funnel 300. Cord 102 can be pulled through rim 302. A benefit of rim 302 can be to help narrow curtain 100 to make curtain 100 more easily wrapped onto spool 206. In a preferred embodiment, rim 302 can be an enclosed ellipse formed at a narrowed end of funnel 300. Rim 302 can be a tube formed in an elliptical shape, to provide reinforcement. A benefit of rim 302 being tubular can be to decrease wear and tear on the present invention. In a possible embodiment, rim 302 can be formed directly on shell 202. In a possible embodiment, rim 302 can be formed on funnel 300. Rim 302 can have a closed shape. Rim 302 can be a 2″ tube curved in an elliptical shape. A benefit of rim 302 in tubular form can be to provide some fabric protection as cord 102 is pulled and curtain 100 is pulled. Curtain 100 is less likely to snag, tear, or be damaged with tubular-shaped rim 302. In a preferred embodiment, rim 302 can be formed at an outer opening of funnel 300 and can have a larger diameter than the inner opening of funnel 300. In a preferred embodiment, rim 302 can be 2.000″ diameter aluminum with a 0.125″ aluminum wall forming the tube of rim 302, having an inner diameter of 22.000″ and an outer diameter of 26.000″, and formed at the larger end of funnel 300 such that the central axis of the rim 302 is 33.500″ from the smaller end of funnel 300 and the bottom of rim 302 is 34.500″ from the smaller end of funnel 300. In a preferred embodiment, rim 302 can have velcro 1212 attached thereto, to have fabric protector 208 in the form of a shroud having removable velcro 1212 to attach the shroud from the bottom channel 1110 to the top of rim 302.

Stage I can be any area, such as an area intended for performance, recording, live interaction, display to an audience, or any veiled, hidden, obscured, or otherwise coverable space. Stage I can be flat or non-flat. A person of ordinary skill in the art would understand how the present invention can be used in relation to stage I.

Support II can be a structure other than the ground or floor, to which objects can be attached, moved with, or suspended. By way of non-limiting illustration, objects attached to support II can be hanger 500, shell 202, engine 200, spool 206, funnel 300, rim 302. Support II can be movable or non-movable. Engine 200, shell 202, spool 206, funnel 300, and rim 302 can be attached to support II. A person having ordinary skill in the pertinent art would understand that support II can be suspended, extend from another structure, provide its own structure, or otherwise be supported by the ground or stage I.

FIG. 4 illustrates an overall perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention. Funnel 300 and rim 302 are shown in FIG. 4, with curtain 100, cord 102, eyelet 104, ring 106, engine 200, shell 202, spool drive axis 204, spool 206. FIG. 4 can be understood as a possible view behind the curtain 100, before curtain 100 is pulled.

FIG. 5 illustrates a view of a released state of an embodiment of the present invention.

An open cross-section of hanger 500 is shown in FIG. 5, with solenoid 502 in open ring-like form, curtain 100, eyelet 104, and ring 106 just below each hanger 500 on support II, shown at an angle. Hanger 500, shown in FIG. 5, can be triggerable wirelessly VII via remote control 504 via receiver 506. Also shown in FIG. 5 is shell 202, with spool 206 chained to engine 200 controllable by control box 1204 having receiver 506 triggered by remote control 504 wireless medium VII, which can occur simultaneously upon activating remote control 504.

Hanger 500 can hang curtain 100. By way of non-limiting illustration, variations of hanger 500 can be: a hook, an enclosure with a hook, an enclosure with solenoid 502, a rod, a loop, pincers, a retractable extension, or any shiftable object allowing curtain 100 to drop therefrom, or any combination thereof. In an embodiment, there can be a plurality of hangers upon which curtain 100 can be hung, for example, by attaching each hanger 500 to an eyelet 104, or in embodiments where ring 106 is present, hanger 500 can attach to ring 106 in order to hang curtain 100. Hanger 500 can facilitate curtain 100 being released 600. Hanger 500 can be retractable or extendable. A given hanger 500 can be fully or partially enclosed in its own housing. Hanger 500 can be remotely triggered to drop curtain 100. Where curtain 100 is hung upon hanger 500, hanger 500 can retract and thus release curtain 500. Hanger 500 can be attached to support II. Hanger 500 can be above an at least some portion of stage I. Hanger 500 can hold, drop, or otherwise make free curtain 100 to be pulled via cord 102. At least one release 500 can comprise a trigger. In an embodiment, there can be a plurality of hangers 500. Plurality of hangers 500 can be spaced evenly or unevenly. In some embodiments, hanger 500 can be fixed on support II. In some embodiments, hanger 500 can be slidably affixed to support II. A benefit of hanger can be to allow curtain 100 to be draped. Another benefit of hanger 500, by way of non-limiting illustration, can be to release curtain 100 to allow pulling 602 of curtain 100 into funnel 300. Non-limiting examples of hanger 500 are shown in FIGS. 5-7 and 9. It shall be understood that hanger 500 need not have any enclosed housing.

Solenoid 502 can be a rigid material, whether metal or non-metal. In an embodiment, solenoid 502 can be a rigid, spring-shaped, thick wire capable of supporting some or all of curtain 100. Solenoid 502 can have a hook portion by which curtain 100 can be hung. In a preferred embodiment, solenoid 502 can be electrically triggerable. Solenoid 502 can be motorized to turn or move. Solenoid 502 can retract or extend. Solenoid 502 can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. A benefit of solenoid 502 can be to triggerably release curtain 100, for example, when a plurality of solenoids 502 rotates enough to drop ring 106 and thus curtain 100. In an embodiment, solenoid 502 can release curtain 100, for example, via rotation of solenoid 502 such that the hooking portion of solenoid 502 turns enough to allow curtain 100 to drop, for example, via ring 106 or eyelet 104 no longer being supported. In some embodiments where electrical power is provided to engine 200, spool 206, hanger 500, and/or solenoid 502, power cables can be provided via support II. In a possible embodiment, solenoid 502 can be powered, motorized, low or high voltage, and clamp-shaped rather than spring-shaped.

Remote control 504 can signal release of hanger 500 to drop curtain 100. Remote control 504 can signal one or more releases, preferably simultaneously. Remote control 504 can preferably signal triggering of engine 200 to pull curtain 100. In a possible embodiment, remote control 504 can signal curtain 100 to be dropped by sufficient simultaneous rotation of solenoids 502. Further, in a possible embodiment, at roughly the same time as curtain 100 drops, engine 200 can be remotely triggered to pull 602 curtain 100 via cord 102. One having ordinary skill in the art would be able to incorporate a remote control with the present invention.

Receiver 506 can receive a signal from remote control 504. In a possible embodiment, receiver 506 can trigger hanger 500 via localized motors to release curtain 100, by way of non-limiting illustration, by triggering solenoid 502. Receiver 506 is shown in FIG. 5 on support II for convenience. In a possible embodiment, multiple receivers 506 can trigger release of one or more hangers 500. In a possible embodiment, there can be another receiver 506 in shell 202 to trigger engine 200, thus rotating spool 206. In a preferred embodiment, receiver 506 can trigger control box 1204 to activate engine 200.

FIG. 6 illustrates a method diagram of an embodiment of the present invention. Release curtain 600 is shown in FIG. 6, with pull curtain 602, rotate spool 604, gather cord 606, obscure curtain 608. The arrows shown in FIG. 6 are not to be construed as strictly necessary in the order of operation. A non-limiting example can be where pulling 602 occurs at the same time or even prior to release 600.

Release curtain 600 can be done by dropping curtain 100 from hanger 500. Release curtain 600 can be done by triggering hanger 500 or otherwise causing curtain 100 to not be attached, hung, or otherwise fixed to hanger 500. Release curtain 600 can move cord 102 attached to a curtain 100 into funnel 300 upon sending a signal from a remote control device. Release curtain 600 can be performed by activating engine 200, which can be remotely triggerable. Release curtain 600 can be done at the same time pulling 602 occurs.

Pull curtain 602 can be facilitated by having cord 102 attached to curtain 100. Pulling 602 can be triggered by activating 504 engine 200 to pull 602 curtain 100. In an embodiment, pulling curtain 602 can be done such that curtain 100 moves faster than would otherwise occur due to gravity. In a possible embodiment, curtain 100 can be pulled off hanger 500 directly without initial release 600. In some embodiments, curtain 100 can be pulled directly without cord 102.

Rotate spool 604 can be performed by clockwise or counterclockwise rotation of spool 206. Cord 102 or curtain 100 can be attached to spool 206 while rotating 604. Spool 206 can have a handle to crank spool 206 manually in the desired direction. Rotate curtain 604 can be done in shell 202. Rotate spool 604 can be accomplished by the force generated by engine 200. Rotate spool 604 can occur when engine 200 initiates. Spool drive axis 204 can torque spool 206. In a preferred embodiment, rotate spool 604 can include moving the spool at high speeds. A number of rotations per second can be known for a three-second timespan where the diameter of the spool is known, and where a given length of cord 102 with attached curtain 100 is known. In a preferred embodiment, rotations of spool 206 can be time-coded via PLC. PLC can be given a gentle start, full speed, gentle stop, with full stop. The dimensions of spool 206, cord 102, and curtain 100 can be known. Weight, speed, and length can be programmable via PLC. In a possible embodiment, known dimensions can be values in programmable variables, where the dimensions of a stage and thus curtain or cord length may also change. One having ordinary skill in the art would be able to understand how to program a PLC to rotate spool 604, by way of non-limiting illustration, to turn engine 200 on or off; or to turn engine 200 on or off with a remote control having a switch for activating a remote signal to be sent to control box 1204 thus activating engine 200 to begin rotating spool 604. Based on the disclosure of the present specification, one of ordinary skill in the art can understand how to perform rotate spool 604. In a possible embodiment, simple programming code instructing the PLC to rotate spool 206 can be encoded in a hardware chip, by way of non-limiting illustration, in control box 1204. Rotate spool 604 can be achieved without requiring one of ordinary skill in the art to produce complex hardware or software programming in some possible embodiments consistent with the present invention.

Gather cord 606 can be performed by pulling curtain 100 via cord 102 through a narrowing space, such as rim 302, and managing cord 102 so that the cord does not go in any random direction but rather is directed by the narrowing space to be wound upon spool 206. Gather cord 606 can be pulling cord 102 through rim 302, or into funnel 300. Curtain 100 can be gathered in the same manner, as curtain 100 can be attached to cord 102. In embodiments where cord 102 is absent, gather cord 606 can instead refer to gathering curtain 100. In a preferred embodiment, gather cord 606 can be performed by having spool 206 which comprises a plurality of spool struts 5300 between two spool plates 5000, the plates 5000 gathering curtain 100 onto the plurality of spool struts 5300, where guide 5600 further prevents spool 206 and curtain 100 from reaching engine 200 or outer portions of shell 202; further, shield 1200 can be within shell 202 and can provide a path to further gather 606 so that once cord 102 and curtain 100 pass through funnel 300, cord 102 and curtain 100 can be wound onto spool 206 with less risk of uncontrollably flapping into undesirable areas of shell 202 in the process of being spooled, for example, if slack occurs in mid-spooling but cord 102 and curtain 100 may still have inertia resulting in misdirection, which can be reduced by having more surfaces to direct curtain 100 onto spool 206. In a preferred embodiment, cord 102 can be wound around spool 206

Obscure curtain 608 can include partially or fully hiding curtain 100 from sight, by way of non-limiting illustration, in a direction toward, past, or into shell 202, spool 206, funnel 300, or rim 302.

Inhale curtain 610 can be any combination of 600-608. Inhale curtain 610 can be done by the pulling of curtain 100, for example, via cord 102, into funnel 300 or shell 202. In some possible embodiments, inhale curtain 610 can lift curtain 100 above the stage I or higher than the height of the bottom of the curtain. Curtain 100 can be lifted upon triggering an engine. Inhale curtain 610 can be done to a corner of curtain 100, outward away from stage I, downward, or any other direction. If curtain 100 is dividable or otherwise split into more than one piece, Inhale curtain 610 can include multiple curtains 100 being pulled in different directions, each into its respective funnel 300 or shell 202.

Position funnel 612 can be done by fixably setting funnel 300 at a location into which curtain 100 can be pulled 606. The given position of funnel 300 can be, but need not be, above stage I. Positioning 612 can be done by a support, pole, tower, bridge, cable-supported horizontal truss rig with no underlying supports, stand, truss, or rig.

Hang curtain 614 can include preparing hanger 500 to releasably hang curtain 100, for example, directly to curtain 100, via eyelet 104, or via ring 106. Hang curtain 614 can include rotating solenoid 502 in a holding position such that the open portion of solenoid 502 does not permit ring 106 to drop therefrom. In an embodiment, hanger 500 can permit the hanging portion of solenoid 502 to be hangable out of a first hole in hanger 500 and a second hole in hanger 500 into which the end of the hanging portion of solenoid 502 can be rotated, thus creating a closed loop while curtain 100 is in hanging position. Solenoid 502 can thereby prevent ring 106 from inadvertently being released, until desired. In an embodiment, spool 206 can be reversed manually by turning or cranking the spool or initiating reversal via engine 200 can aid in preparing to hang curtain 614 for reuse of curtain 100. In an embodiment, hangers 500 can be lowered to permit reattachment of rings 106 to solenoids 502.

FIG. 7 illustrates a detail cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention showing a hanger with an attached curtain. Hanger 500 or a plurality thereof can connect with curtain by providing a hookable portion for curtain 100, eyelet 104, or ring 106 (FIG. 7) to be connected thereto.

FIG. 8 illustrates a detail cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention showing a hanger after the curtain is released.

FIG. 9 illustrates an overall view after the curtain is released from hanger, of an embodiment of the present invention. Shell 202 is shown in FIG. 9, with engine 200, spool drive axis 204, spool 206, funnel 300, rim 302, cord 102, curtain 100, eyelet 104, ring 106, hanger 500, solenoid 502, stage I, support II, and vector III-IV to refer to downward direction of curtain 100 when released from hanger 500.

FIG. 10 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present invention where the curtain is attached to a hanger. Hanger 500 is shown in FIG. 10, with solenoid 502, curtain 100, eyelet 104, and ring 106.

FIG. 11 illustrates a closed view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention with funnel. Top 1100 of shell 202 is shown in FIG. 11 with rig plates 2600, door 1104, end cap 1106, top channel 1108, bumper 1109, bottom channel 1110, and hinge 1112.

Top 1100 can be made of any rigid material, metal or non-metal, such as wood. In a preferred embodiment, top 1100 can be part of shell 202 and can be made of plywood. Top 1100 can provide a portion of shell 202 to further enclose the contents therein. In a preferred embodiment, shell 202 can comprise top 1100 with at least one wood portion, preferably plywood, and frame 1400 having at least one metal portion, preferably steel. A benefit of combining metal and wood can be to lighten the overall load such that the present invention can be lighter and more flexible when air is pushed out while curtain 100 is pulled into shell 202.

Rig plate 2600 can be a rigid material partly comprising top 1100 of shell 202. There can be a plurality of rig plates 2600 (FIG. 26). A benefit of rig plate 2600 can be to facilitate attachment to another structure, by way of non-limiting illustration: support II, a transportation vehicle, a movable arm, or a transportation pallet. Rig plate 2600 can have one or more mounting holes 2602 (FIG. 26). Having mounting holes 2602 in rig plate 2600 can allow attachment to support II. Having holes in rig plate 2600 can relieve pressure prior to positioning rig plate 2600 with screws to hold shell 202 in place above stage I while suspended at support II. Rig plate 2600 can be made of aluminum, steel, plastic, or any rigid material capable of supporting shell 202. In an embodiment, the outer ends of rig plate 2600 can be affixed below top channel 1108. Shell 202 can have at least one binding portion, by way of non-limiting illustration, mounting hole 2602, male or female attachments, or any combination thereof. There can be a plurality of mounting holes 2602 on rig plate 2600. In an embodiment, holes 2602 can be spaced apart to facilitate mounting of shell 202 to support II. Rig plate 2600 can comprise one or more mounting holes 2602. In a preferred embodiment, rig plate 2600 can comprise steel, being 30.500″ long, 2.000″ deep and 6.000″ wide. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of two or more mounting holes 2602 can be placed on the elongated 6″×30.5″ portion of rig plate 2600, preferably comprising six mounting holes 2602, each of the six mounting holes 2602 being spaced from the edge at the following intervals: 1.500″, 9.375″, 11.875″, 18.625″, 22.125″, 29.000″ from the edge of one side of the plate, the plurality of mounting holes 2602 being centrally located on the elongated portion of rig plate 2600. Rig plate 2600 can have at least one pair of mounting holes 2602 capable of attaching to support II. Support II can be of various sizes and configurations, without limitation. In a possible embodiment, rig plate 2600 can also have attachment holes other than mounting holes 2600. A person having ordinary skill in the pertinent art would know how to incorporate rig plate 2600 and mounting holes 2602 in the present invention. In a preferred embodiment, there can be a plurality of rig plates 2600; at least two rig plates 2600 can be above engine 200 and spool 206.

Door 1104 can be a panel on shell 202. Funnel 300 can be stored away when not in use, by way of non-limiting illustration, during travel, or when funnel 300 is not configured to be used. A benefit of door 1104 with shell 202 can be to help provide a convenient storage space for funnel 300. Further, in embodiments where fabric protectors 208 are wheels, putting funnel 300 away can allow shell 202 to have a compact form, which can then be rolled away for transport or use in another location. In a preferred embodiment, door 1104 can have steel welded latches from SouthCo of Concordville, Pa., SKU No. 24-10-302-10.

End cap 1106 can be a portion of shell 202, for example, where door 1104 can be closed to a fixable position. In a preferred embodiment, end cap 1106 can be made of aluminum. A benefit of end cap can be to prevent door 1104 from swinging open or closed at undesirable times, such as during transport or during a performance.

Top channel 1108 can be formed at the top of shell 202. Top channel 1108 can be any rigid material, metal or non-metal, preferably aluminum. Top channel 1108 can add shape or structural integrity to shell 202. Top channel can facilitate positioning of rig plates 2600. In a preferred embodiment, top channel 1108 can have an upper rail and a lower rail formed by the top channel 1108 being 1.000″ from inner edge to outer edge, and 3.000″ in height. Holes to affix top channel 1108 can facilitate mounting to frame 1400, preferably via steel cap machine screw ⅜″-16×1.25″ SKU 92196A626 with a narrow washer SKU 98017A199, twelve holes and twelve screws each for top channel 1108, and same for bottom channel 1110. Top channel 1108 can be 74.000″ (long side, Fig.)×35.300″ with a diagonal of 82.075″. In a preferred embodiment, four screw holes can be formed along the long side of top channel 1108, mirrored with the long side of top channel, where the screw holes are spaced from the edge at: 3.5″, 27.050″, 48.677″, and 70.500″. Along both short sides of top channel 1108, screw holes can be mirrored as well, with holes formed at the following distances from the edge of the short side: 3.500 and 32.000. Screw holes in top channel 1108 can be set 0.663″ from the bottom, on the 3.000″ portion of top channel 1108, and can have a diameter of 0.400″.

Bumper 1109 can be a rail, bumper, protruding portion, or any raised surface of shell 202 which can protect shell 202 from impact. Bumper 1109 can be formed on channel 1108 or channel 1110. There can be at least one rail formed around shell 202. In a preferred embodiment, shell can comprise at least two sets of bumpers, the set comprising a first pair of rails along the top of shell 202 and a second pair of rails along the bottom of shell 202, respectively. In a preferred embodiment top channel 1108 and bottom channel 1110 can each have at least one bumper 1109 which can protect shell 202 from damage during transit, absorbing impact at the top or bottom of shell.

Bottom channel 1110 can be formed at the bottom of shell 202. In a preferred embodiment, bottom channel 1108 can have an upper rail and a lower rail formed by the top channel 1108 being 1.000″ from inner edge to outer edge, and 2.000″ in height.

Hinge 1112 can be attached to door 1104 and shell 202 in most embodiments. In a preferred embodiment, hinge 1112 can be a 29″ piano hinge, SKU 1569A265; and hinge 1112 can be welded to door 1104. A benefit of hinge 1112 can be to facilitate opening and closing of door 1104 when storing or removing funnel 300.

FIG. 12 illustrates an open view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention with funnel. FIGS. 12 and 13 show an absence of shell 202 panels. Shield 1200 is shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 with top channel 1108, frame 1400 overall, rig plate 2600, mounting holes 2602, spool strut 5300, angle bracket 6000, bumper 1109, bottom skid 1500, complementary attachment 6900, funnel attachment 6500, end cap 1106, side attachment plate 3600, fabric protector 208, velcro 1212, funnel 300, rim 302, control box 1204, guide 5600, side frame 1208, spool 206 indicated inside shell 202 and behind spool plate 5000, bottom channel 1110, spool drive sprocket 4800, and engine 200. Panels of shell 202 are absent from FIG. 12. Shield 1200 is also shown in FIGS. 57, 58, and 59.

Shield 1200 can be a structure within shell 202 to protect spool 206. Another possible benefit of shield 1200 in curved form can be to further gather cord 102 or curtain 100 onto spool 206 during rotation. Shield 1200 can be transparent, opaque, partially transparent, or partially opaque. In a preferred embodiment, shield 1200 can be made of ⅛″ thick transparent polycarbonate, also known as clear or colorless lexan, 100.569″ total length when flat and 21.563″ wide, starting with a flat portion and curving into a concave portion elliptical or rounded in shape which can fit around spool 206 while leaving a gap for curtain 100 to be pulled through into shell 202, along shield 1200 and between two opposite guides 5600 at distal ends of spool drive axis 204 between spool plates 5000, and onto spool 206. In an embodiment, shield 1200 can prevent cord 102 from veering off course by defining a physical path in shell 202 as cord 102 is: pulled in via funnel 300, pulled into shell 202, prevented from moving into other areas within shell 202 via shield 1200, and rotated onto spool 206. In an embodiment, shield 1200 can be formed around spool 206 except where cord 102 and curtain 100 enter shell 202 and into spool 206. Thus, an inner chamber within shell 202 can be defined by shield 1200. Shield 1200 need not form such inner chamber. A benefit of shield 1200 being transparent can be to allow production personnel to see cord 102 and/or curtain 100 on spool 206. Another potential benefit of shield 1200 as transparent polycarbonate can be to provide a less loud surface against which cord 102 and curtain 100 impact. Shield 1200 can have a guide 5600 (FIG. 56) attached thereto. In a possible embodiment, shield 1200 can be fabric rather than a rigid structure, or a combination thereof.

Angle bracket 6000 can facilitate mounting of components in shell 202 such as spool 206. Angle bracket 6000 is shown in FIGS. 60-63.

Control box 1204 can be an enclosure to prevent particles, water, or other corrosive materials therein. Control box 1204 can house hardware to trigger engine 200. Engine 200 can be a drive motor wired to control box 1204 or remotely controlled. In an embodiment, control box 1204 can be a made of stainless steel, aluminum, or other rigid material, preferably metal or other durable material resistant to corrosion. In a preferred embodiment, control box 1204 can be a NEMA 12-compliant electrical enclosure. Such box is sold by Hoffman of Anoka, Minn. In a preferred embodiment, control box 1204 can have a Hoffman Enclosure A-202008LP and Hoffman Panel A-20P20.

Guide 5600 (FIG. 56) can be a structure enclosing the peripheral rotating portions of spool 206, such as spool plate 5000. Guide 5600 can be attached to frame 1400 or shell 202, preferably via angle brackets 6000 and attached to frame 1400 via two opposite side frames 1208.

Side frame 1208 can be a structure forming a portion of shell 202. Frame 1400 can comprise side frame 1208. Side frame 1208 can have reinforcing beams and struts, preferably to support stress generated by movement of shell 202 and movement of spool 206. A portion of side frame 1208 can allow for spool 206 and engine 200 to be fixably attachable to side frame 1208 within shell 202.

Spool drive sprocket 1210 can be affixed to spool 206. Spool drive sprocket 1210 can have chain 1214 to rotate when engine 200 generates torque to rotate spool 206. A non-limiting embodiment of spool drive sprocket is shown in FIG. 49.

Velcro 1212 can be on shell 202. Velcro 1212 can be another fabric protector 208. A benefit of velcro 1212 can be to further protect curtain 100 from damage. Velcro 1212 can have soft velcro loops, rather than harsh velcro hooks, against which curtain 100 does not fasten. In a preferred embodiment, velcro 1212 can be placed along the base perimeter of shell 202 along the peripheral edges of bottom channel 1110. A benefit of velcro 1212 can be to decrease damage to curtain 100.

Chain 1214 can be attached to spool drive sprocket 4800 with motor drive sprocket.

FIG. 13 illustrates an open view of an embodiment of the present invention with a funnel stored in the shell. Funnel 300 is shown in FIG. 13, with top channel 1108, shield 1200, angle bracket 6000, rig plate 2600, end cap 1106, fabric protector 208, rim 302 on funnel 300 within shell 202, velcro 1212, bottom channel 1110, spool 206, spool drive sprocket 1210, engine 200, side frame 1208, guide 5600, and control box 1204. Panels of shell 202 are absent from FIG. 13.

FIG. 14 illustrates a top view of a frame of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Frame 1400 is shown in FIG. 14, with shell 202, top frame 1800, rig plates 2600, mounting holes 2602, attachment plate 3800, and angle bracket 6000. Shell 202 can comprise frame 1400. Frame 1400 is shown overall in FIGS. 14-17.

Frame 1400 can comprise top frame 1800, side frame 1208, bottom frame 2100, and end frame 8100. As discussed supra, shell 202 can comprise frame 1400, preferably made of steel, as well as plywood panels, aluminum end caps 1106, with top and bottom channels 1108 and 1110. Frame 1400 can be made of metal, wood, metal alloy, plastic, fiberglass, ultra-high molecular weight polymer, synthetic material, or any combination thereof. In a preferred embodiment, frame 1400 can be made of 1.50″×1.50″×0.083″ steel. In a preferred embodiment, frame 1400 can have the following dimensions: 72.000″ length×33.500″ width×40.754″ height. Frame 1400 comprising aluminum with plywood can add strength with providing a measure of flexibility and reduced overall weight to shell 202 compared to weaker embodiments which have no frame 1400.

FIG. 15 illustrates an angled view of a frame of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Bottom skid 1500 is shown in FIG. 15, with shell 202 in open view, frame 1400 overall, side frame 1208, top frame 1800, spool drive axis mount plates 3500, rig plates 2600 with mounting holes 2602, side attachment plates 3600, short side attachment plates 3606, rectangular attachment plates 3608, attachment plates 3800, and angle brackets 6000.

Bottom skid 1500 can be made of any rigid material, preferably plywood. A benefit of bottom skid 1500 can be to enhance protection for shell 202, spool 206, and engine 200.

FIG. 16 illustrates a side view of a frame of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Frame 1400 is shown in FIG. 16, with side frame 1208, bottom skid 1500, angle brackets 6000, motor mount plate 3400, and spool drive axis mount plate 3500.

FIG. 17 illustrates an end view of a frame of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Frame 1400 is shown in FIG. 17 with motor mounting plate 3400, side attachment plates 3600, short side attachment plate 3606, rectangular attachment plate 3608, control box mount plates 3900 with control box mounting holes 3902.

FIG. 18 illustrates a top view of a top frame of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Top frame 1800 is shown in FIG. 18, with rig plate 2600, mounting holes 2602 and shell 202 overall. Frame 1400 can comprise top frame 1800. In a preferred embodiment, top frame 1800 from one outer corner to the opposite outer corner can be 79.412″ across the diagonal. In a preferred embodiment, the top of frame 1400, or the top of top frame 1800, can be 0.500″ lower than the top surface of rig plate 2600.

FIG. 19 illustrates a side view of a top frame of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Rig plate 2600 is shown in FIG. 19, with top frame 1800. Shell 202 can comprise top frame 1800, and at least one rig plate 2600.

Rig space 1900 can be formed by rig plate 2600 with two rails can extend into top frame 1800. In a preferred embodiment, rig space 1900 can comprise a space between the bottom of the elongated portion of rig plate 2600 and the top of frame 1400 or the top of top frame 1800.

FIG. 20 illustrates a bottom view of a top frame of a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 illustrates a top view of a bottom frame of an embodiment of the present invention. Bottom frame 2100 is shown in FIG. 21, with fabric protector mount plates 2102, complementary attachments 6900, bottom skids 1500, and gap 5704 (FIG. 57). In a preferred embodiment, bottom frame 2100 can facilitate the flow of curtain 100 to enter shell 202 via funnel 300 through a gap 5704.

FIG. 22 illustrates a side view of a bottom frame of an embodiment of the present invention. Bottom skid 1500 is shown in FIG. 22, with bottom frame 2100 and fabric protector mount plates 2102.

FIG. 23 illustrates a flat view of an inside wall frame of an embodiment of the present invention. Side frame 1208 is shown in FIG. 23, with spool drive axis mount plate 3500, side attachment plates 3600. Side frame 1208 can comprise perpendicular and angled supports to support Spool drive axis mount plate 3500 for spool 206.

FIG. 24 illustrates a side view of an inside wall frame of an embodiment of the present invention. Side frame 1208 is shown in FIG. 24, with spool drive axis mount plate 3500, side attachment plates 3600, and rectangular attachment plate 3608.

FIG. 25 illustrates an end view of an inside wall frame of an embodiment of the present invention. Side frame 1208 is shown in FIG. 25, with spool drive axis mount plate 3500, side attachment plate 3600, and rectangular attachment plate 3608.

FIG. 26 illustrates a top view of a rig plate of an embodiment of the present invention. Rig plate 2600 is shown in FIG. 26, with mounting holes 2602.

Mounting hole 2602 can be any space in rig plate 2600 or in shell 202. Mounting hole 2602 can facilitate connection of the present invention to a support II. In a preferred embodiment, mounting hole 2602 can be connectably removable with support II. Support II or any portion thereof can be angled, vertically oriented, horizontal, curved, or any combination thereof. Another potential benefit of mounting hole 2602 can be to facilitate air flow out of shell 202 when the mass of curtain 100 is pulled therein.

FIG. 27 illustrates an angled view of a rig plate of an embodiment of the present invention. Rig plate 2600 is shown in FIG. 27.

FIG. 28 illustrates a side view of a rig plate of an embodiment of the present invention. Rig plate 2600 is shown in FIG. 28.

FIG. 29 illustrates an end view of a rig plate of an embodiment of the present invention. Rig plate 2600 is shown in FIG. 29.

FIG. 30 illustrates a top view of a motor frame of an embodiment of the present invention. Motor frame 3000 is shown in FIG. 30, with motor frame beam 3002, motor mounting holes 3404, angled motor mount support 3006, and motor mounting plate 3400.

FIG. 31 illustrates an angled view of a motor frame of an embodiment of the present invention. Motor frame support 3100 is shown in FIG. 31, with motor frame 3000, motor frame beam 3002, motor mounting holes 3404, motor mount support 3006 preferably forming a 45-degree angle with motor frame support 3100, and motor mounting plate 3400.

FIG. 32 illustrates a flat view of a motor frame of an embodiment of the present invention. Motor frame 3000 is shown in FIG. 31, with motor frame beam 3002, motor mounting holes 3404, and motor mounting plate 3400 with motor mount support 3006.

FIG. 33 illustrates an end view of a motor frame of an embodiment of the present invention. Motor frame 3000 is shown overall in FIG. 33, with motor frame beam 3002 connected to motor mount support 3006 and motor frame support 3100, and motor mounting plate 3400 attached to motor mount support 3006.

FIG. 34 illustrates an overall view of a motor mount plate of an embodiment of the present invention. Motor mount plate 3400 is shown in FIG. 34, with motor mounting holes 3404.

FIG. 35 illustrates a spool drive axis mount plate of an embodiment of the present invention. Spool drive axis mount plate 3500 is shown in FIG. 35.

FIG. 36 illustrates an overall view of a side attachment plate of an embodiment of the present invention. Side attachment plate 3600 is shown in FIG. 36.

Side attachment plate 3600 can be made as shown, preferably having at least a base hole 3602 near two right angles formed by the ends of the side attachment plate, and a distal hole 3604 near a forty-five degree angle edge of the side attachment plate 3600. To cut smaller attachment plates in a preferred embodiment, side attachment plate 3600 can be cut across the length, preferably 1.000″ from the flat edge of side attachment plate 3600, to form short side attachment plate 3606 and rectangular attachment plate 3608.

FIG. 37 illustrates an overall view of another side attachment plate of an embodiment of the present invention. Side attachment mount plate 3600, a non-limiting illustration of a variation, is shown in FIG. 37.

FIG. 38 illustrates an overall view of an attachment plate of an embodiment of the present invention. Attachment plate 3800 is shown in FIG. 38.

Attachment plate 3800 can be any plate suitable for affixing a screw, bolt, or pin to a structure. In a preferred embodiment, shell 202 can comprise frame 1400 with attachment plate 3800 being triangular in shape, and attachment plate 3800 can secure a corner of top 1100 with rig plate 2600 to secure the position of rig plate 2600. In a preferred embodiment, attachment plate 3800 can have a long side of 4.000″ with two angles of 45 degrees, a 0.201″ diameter hole formed 0.707″ from the corner opposite the long side of the attachment plate 3800, suitable for a ½″-14 UNC bolt.

FIG. 39 illustrates an overall view of a control box mount plate of an embodiment of the present invention. Control box mount plate 3900 is shown in FIG. 39 with control box mounting holes 3902.

FIG. 40 illustrates an overall view of a fabric protector mount plate of an embodiment of the present invention. Fabric protector mount plate 4000 is shown in FIG. 40. In a preferred embodiment where fabric protector 208 is a wheel, fabric protector mount plate can facilitate mounting of a wheel with holes 4002.

FIG. 41 illustrates an overall view of a motor mount plate of an embodiment of the present invention. Motor mount plate 4100 is shown in FIG. 41 with a plurality of motor mount holes 4102.

Motor mount plate 4100 can be 10.500″×10.500.″ Motor mount plate 4100 can be made from any rigid material, metal or non-metal, preferably 0.250″ steel plate.

Motor mount holes 4102 can be 0.440″ each in diameter. Each hole can be spaced 1.263″×2.541″ from an edge of the motor mount plate 4100, where the second set of four motor mount holes are 8.764″ from the edge.

FIG. 42 illustrates a side view of a portion of a motor drive axis of an embodiment of the present invention. Engine 200 is shown in FIG. 42, with motor drive sprocket 1214.

FIG. 43 illustrates an overall angle view of a motor drive axis of an embodiment of the present invention. Engine 200 is shown in FIG. 43, with motor drive sprocket 1214.

FIG. 44 illustrates a flat side view of a motor drive axis of an embodiment of the present invention. Engine 200 is shown in FIG. 44, with motor drive sprocket 1214.

FIG. 45 illustrates an overall view of a spool drive axis of an embodiment of the present invention. Spool drive axis 204 is shown overall in FIG. 45, with shaft 4502, bolt 4504 on support sprocket 4700, bolt 4504 attached to spool drive sprocket 4800 and to support sprocket 4506, flange bearing 4508 with plurality of flange mount holes 4510, nut 4602, and shaft collar 4604.

FIG. 46 illustrates a side view of a spool drive axis of an embodiment of the present invention. Spool drive axis 204 is shown overall in FIG. 46, with shaft 4502, bolt 4504 on support sprocket 4506, bolt 4504 attached to spool drive sprocket 4800 and to support sprocket 4700, flange bearing 4508, nut 4602, bolt spacer 4900, and shaft collar 4604.

FIG. 47 illustrates a flat view of a support sprocket of an embodiment of the present invention. Support sprocket 4700 is shown in FIG. 47 with a plurality of holes 4702 which can overlap with a plurality of holes 4802 in spool drive sprocket 4800 (FIG. 48), and negative space 4706 peripheral to central hole 4704 on support sprocket 4700.

Support sprocket 4700 can be an elliptical or preferably circular plate with a plurality of holes 4702. In a preferred embodiment, support sprocket 4700 can be toothless and not directly linked to engine 200. Support sprocket 4700 can comprise a central hole 4704 with rectangular negative space 4706.

FIG. 48 illustrates an overall view of a spool drive sprocket of an embodiment of the present invention. Spool drive sprocket 4800 is shown in FIG. 48, with a plurality of holes 4802 on spool drive sprocket 4800, central hole 4804, and teeth 4806.

Spool drive sprocket 4800 can be a sprocket having teeth 4806 to facilitate rotation on spool drive axis 204 by transferring force from engine 200. In a preferred embodiment, there can be more than one spool drive sprocket 4800 (FIG. 45). A benefit of having more than one spool drive sprocket 4800 can be to achieve redundancy in case of failure during operation, thus enhancing failover.

Each hole in the plurality of holes 4802 on spool drive sprocket 2800 can have 0.500″ diameter spaced peripherally at 5.500″ from the center of spool drive sprocket 4800.

FIG. 49 illustrates a side view of a bolt spacer of an embodiment of the present invention. Bolt spacer 4900 is shown in FIG. 49.

Bolt spacer 4900 can be a hollowed cylinder which permits bolt 4504 to fit therethrough. In a preferred embodiment, bolt spacer can have 1.000″ diameter and 1.190″length with a hole to accommodate bolt 4504.

FIG. 49B illustrates a flat view of a washer of an embodiment of the present invention. Washer 4902 is shown in FIG. 49B.

Washer 4902 can be any conventional washer known in the related art. In a preferred embodiment, washer 4902 can have an outer diameter of 1.000″ and an inner diameter of 0.531″ made from 1.0″ solid aluminum.

FIG. 50 illustrates an angled view of a spool of an embodiment of the present invention. Spool plate 5000 is shown in FIGS. 50, 51, and 52, with spool strut 5300 and spool 206 overall.

Spool plate 5000 can be made of any rigid material, preferably aluminum plate 0.25″ thick. In a preferred embodiment, spool plate 5000 can have a curved edge and no sharp corners. In less preferred embodiments, spool plate 500 can be jagged or polygon-shaped. A benefit of spool plate 5000 can be to help further gather curtain 100 onto spool 206. Another benefit of spool plate 5000 can be to reduce risk of curtain 100 from failing to align onto spool 206 when pulled and rotated onto spool 206. Spool plate 5000 can comprise a portion of spool 206 along with one or more spool struts 5300. In a preferred embodiment, there can be six spool struts 5300; spool plate 5000 can have an outer diameter of 34.000″ a central hole 2.000″ in diameter, a plurality of inner holes on spool plate 5000, each inner hole having a 0.500″ diameter spaced apart 5.500″ diameter from the center of spool plate 5000, and a plurality of outer holes on spool plate 5000, each outer hole being a spool strut hole 5004 each having a diameter of 0.438″ and spaced apart at a diameter 15.000″ from the center of spool plate 5000, preferably numbering eight spool strut holes 5004.

FIG. 51 illustrates an open strut view of a spool of an embodiment of the present invention. Spool 206 is shown in FIG. 51 with two spool plates 5000 having a plurality of spool struts 5300 perpendicular to the spool plates 5000.

FIG. 52 illustrates a flat view of a spool plate of an embodiment of the present invention. Spool 206 is shown in FIG. 52 with spool plate 5000.

FIG. 53 illustrates a flat view of the transverse plane of a spool strut of an embodiment of the present invention. Spool strut 5300 is shown in FIG. 53, with section V-VI (FIG. 54).

Spool strut 5300 can be a support between at least two spool plates 5000. Spool strut 5300 can be any rigid material, metal or non-metal, plastic, fiberglass, wood, or any other synthetic or non-synthetic material. In a preferred embodiment, spool strut 5300 can be 19.500″ long, made of solid aluminum 0.75″ thick inside a 1.0″×0.125″ thick aluminum tube with a plug weld of 0.500″ diameter; spool strut 5300 can have a ⅛″ roll pin to fit through a 0.125″ pinhole on spool strut 5300; the pinhole on strut 5300 can be formed perpendicular to the length of spool strut 5300, at 1.625″ from either end of spool strut 5300. In an embodiment, spool strut 5300 can be a cylindrical length, the outer cylinder diameter being preferably 1.000″ with inner diameter 0.750″. In a preferred embodiment, there can be a plurality of spool struts 5300 fixably positioned between two spool plates 5000, and each spool strut 5300 of the plurality of spool struts can have each spool plate 5300 at an opposite end of each spool strut 5300. In an embodiment, spool 206 can comprise a single spool strut 5300 between spool plates 5000.

FIG. 54 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of a spool strut of an embodiment of the present invention. Spool strut 5300 is shown in FIG. 54 in cross-sectional view revealing section V-VI also in cross-section along spool strut 5300.

FIG. 55 illustrates a side view of a spool strut of an embodiment of the present invention. Spool strut 5300 is shown in FIG. 55, without cross-section.

FIG. 56 illustrates a side view of a guide of an embodiment of the present invention. Guide 5600 is shown in FIG. 56. Guide 5600 is also shown in FIG. 12, with shell 202 and angle bracket 6000. Guide 5600 can be affixed in shell 202 via angle bracket 6000.

Guide 5600 can be plastic, fiberglass, metal, alloy, or any polymer which can be at least peripherally enclosing to shield 1200. In a preferred embodiment, guide 5600 can comprise UHMWPE. UHMWPE is commonly available in sheet form. In a preferred embodiment, guide 5600 can be ¾″ UHMWPE and attached to frame 1400 via an at least one angle bracket 6000, preferably four or eight at attachment points. One having ordinary skill in the pertinent art would know how to incorporate guide 5600 into the present invention.

Leaf 5602 can be an extension of guide 5600 which reaches an area that is not suited to guide spool 206.

FIG. 57 illustrates an angled view of a shield of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Shield 1200 is shown in FIG. 57, with open portion 5702 forming gap 5704. Curtain 100 can be capable of being moved through or along open portion 5702 and through gap 5704, preferably after curtain 100 enters shell 202 via funnel 300.

Open portion 5702 can be part of shield 1200. Open portion of shield can avoid closing a loop that would otherwise surround spool 206 when shield 1200 is around spool 206. Open portion can be any shape, preferably forming at least a space gap 5704 to accommodate movement of cord 102 or curtain 100 attached thereto, to be wound onto spool 206. Open portion 5702 can refer to the structure of shield 1200 which terminates to provide at least some negative space, for example, gap 5704.

Gap 5704 is distinguished from all other gaps. Gap 5704 can refer to the negative space formed by not fully connecting shield 1200 to allow passage of an object through the perimeter of the shield. Gap 5704 can allow passage of curtain into shield and onto spool 206. Curtain 206 can also be retrieved or unwound through open portion 5702 or gap 5704.

FIG. 58 illustrates a flat side view of a shield of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Shield 1200 is shown in FIG. 58, with guide 5600 on either side. Spool 206 can be inside shield 1200.

FIG. 59 illustrates a side view of a shield of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Shield 1200 is shown in FIG. 59, with open portion 5702 and gap 5704.

FIG. 59B illustrates an inside view of a shield of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Shield 1200 is shown in FIG. 59, with spool 206 inside shield 1200, spool 206 having at least one spool strut 5300 between two spool plates 5000, open portion 5702 of shield 1200, and guide 5600 around shield 1200.

FIG. 60 illustrates a flat view of an angle bracket of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Angle bracket 6000 is shown in FIG. 60, with elongated hole 6002 and small holes 6004.

Angle bracket 6000 can be any surface to allow a screw, bolt, or any other fastening mechanism to attach to shell 202. Angle bracket 6000 can be any rigid material, metal or non-metal. Angle bracket 6000 can be used to attach other components to frame 1400, such as spool 206. In a preferred embodiment, angle bracket 6000 can allow guide 5600 to fixably attach within shell 202. In a preferred embodiment, angle bracket 6000 can also provide a structure for shield 1200 to be fixed within shell 202. In a preferred embodiment, angle bracket 6000 can be ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) material, such as PVC, polyethylene, high-density polymer, or other synthetic material. In a preferred embodiment, angle bracket can be 4.000″×4.000″×0.25″ steel. In a preferred embodiment, angle bracket can have an elongated hole 6002 and one or more holes 6004. In a preferred embodiment, angle bracket can comprise two 4.000″ lengths extending at a 90-degree angle from the vertex of the angle bracket 6000.

Elongated hole 6002 (FIGS. 60-63) can be a hole on one length of angle bracket 6000. In a preferred embodiment, elongated hole 6002 can be a pair of 0.438 diameters formed at 0.625″ inward from the exposed edge of angle bracket 6000, and 1.000″ from the exposed edge of angle bracket 6000, with a space formed joining the two diameters to form the elongated hole.

Small hole 6004 (FIGS. 60, 62, and 63) can be formed on the other length of angle bracket 6000 which extends where elongated hole 6002 is not formed. Small holes 6004 can each be 0.250″ from the other edge of angle bracket. One small hole can be 0.500″ from the outer edge, and the other can be 1.000″ from the outer edge so that the holes can be staggered (FIGS. 60 and 63).

FIG. 61 illustrates an angled view of an angle bracket of an embodiment of the present invention. Angle bracket 6000 is shown in FIG. 61, with elongated hole 6002.

FIG. 62 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an angle bracket of an embodiment of the present invention. Angle bracket 6000 is shown in FIG. 62, with elongated hole 6002 and small holes 6004.

FIG. 63 illustrates an end view of an angle bracket of an embodiment of the present invention. Angle bracket 6000 is shown in FIG. 63, with elongated hole 6002 and small holes 6004.

FIG. 64 illustrates an overall view of a funnel of an embodiment of the present invention. Pin 6400 is shown in FIG. 64 with funnel 300, rim 302, first hole 6502 on funnel attachment 6500 on funnel 300 without pin 6400, another funnel attachment 6500 near the smaller opening of funnel 300 with an at least one finger 6502 which can comprise at least one hole (e.g., first hole 6502 or third hole 6504), and yet another funnel attachment 6500 shown on funnel 300 with pin 6400. A fourth funnel attachment is obscured from view in FIG. 64. It can be understood that there can be another funnel attachment 6500 opposite the one shown centrally at the smaller end of funnel 300 in FIG. 64.

Pin 6400 can help attach funnel 300 to shell 202. Pin 6400 can be any elongated shape, preferably having at least one cylindrical portion capable of fitting through a hole, by way of non-limiting illustration, female and male funnel knuckles 6500 and 6800. Pin 6400 can be a bolt, screw, nail, or any other rigid piece which can fit funnel attachment 6500 to complementary attachment 6900. Pin 6400 can be threaded or non-threaded. In a preferred embodiment, pin 6400 can be 0.375″ in diameter×3.0″ long, available as a locking pin with known SKU no. 98416A531. In an embodiment, pin 6400 can have an enlarged end or a non-parallel portion, such as a perpendicular portion, to stop pin 6400 from going through all the way past funnel attachment 6500 and complementary attachment 6900. In an embodiment, enlarged portion 7000 of pin 6400 (FIG. 70) can be shaped to permit turning of threaded pin 6400 embodiments to attach funnel 300 to shell 202. There can be a plurality of pins 6400 to permit interconnection with a plurality of funnel attachment 6500 and complementary attachment 6900. A benefit of male and female knuckles with pin 6400 can be to quickly attach or remove funnel 300 with shell 202 for rapid setup or breakdown in any staging environment. By way of non-limiting illustration, funnel 300 can be attached via funnel attachment 6500 where a female knuckle (FIGS. 64-67) can be with a male funnel knuckle (FIGS. 69-73), with complementary attachment 6900.

FIG. 65 illustrates an angled detail view of a funnel attachment of an embodiment of the present invention.

Funnel attachment 6500 is shown in FIG. 65, with hole 6502, hole 6504, finger 6506, and gap 6508.

Funnel attachment 6500 can be a “knuckle” which can have a male or female attachment. In a preferred embodiment, funnel attachment 6500 can be a female knuckle which can attach with a male knuckle; pin 6400 therebetween can allow for relatively quick setup and takedown. In a preferred embodiment, funnel attachment 6500 can comprise a first hole 6502, where a complementary attachment comprises a second hole, and where the funnel attachment comprises a third hole 6504. Reference to “first hole,” “second hole,” and “third hole” can be understood as distinguishing the presence of holes and do not necessarily limit the order or minimum number of holes through which pin 6400 can be provided. In an embodiment, there can be two or more holes. Funnel attachment 6500 can taper at an eight-degree angle, being 3.000″ in length and 1.250″ thick at the proximal end of funnel attachment 6500, with 1.097″ inner thickness forming the gap 6508. There can be a plurality of holes on funnel attachment 6500.

In a preferred embodiment, there can be at least two holes on funnel attachment 6500. By way of non-limiting illustration, there can be first hole 6502, second hole 6902, and third hole 6504. Holes 6502, 6504, and 6902 can be threaded, non-threaded, or any combination thereof; the holes need not go through all the way through in some embodiments. In a preferred embodiment, funnel attachment 6500 can comprise a concave surface to fit the surface of funnel 300 in embodiments where funnel 300 is rounded, conical, or cylindrical. The present invention is not limited to rounded shapes for funnel 300 or funnel attachment 6500. In a preferred embodiment, funnel attachment 6500 can comprise a pair of fingers 6506 extending from the body of funnel attachment 6500 and gap 6508 between the two fingers 6506 where complementary attachment 6900 can fit between two fingers 6506 and pin 6400 can fit through a first hole 6502 of a first finger 6506 of funnel attachment 6500, a second hole 69902 on complementary attachment 6900, and a third hole 6506 on a second finger 6506 on funnel attachment 6500 in gap 6508, and each hole can have 0.438″ diameter formed at 0.375″ from the attaching outer corner of the funnel attachment 6500 formed closest to the smaller opening of funnel 300. In a possible embodiment, funnel 300 or shell 202 can comprise complementary attachment 6900 formed upon it to facilitate removably affixing funnel 300. In a preferred embodiment, funnel attachment 6500 can have a curvature to enhance fit with the concave surface of funnel 300; funnel attachment 6500 can have an outer curvature formed by a 6.306″ radius (FIG. 66) and an inner radius of 6.751″ to form a portion of funnel attachment 6500 exposing gap 6508 (FIG. 66). The depth of each finger on funnel attachment 6500 can be 1.250″ at the outermost edge at the thickest portion of funnel attachment 6500 (FIG. 68).

An at least one finger 6506 can be curved as described to better fit the curved surface of funnel 300. Each finger 6506 can have a hole 6502 or 6504 (FIGS. 64, 65, 68).

In a preferred embodiment, first hole 6502 can be a hole through a portion of funnel attachment 6500.

In a preferred embodiment, second hole 6902 can be a hole through a portion of complementary attachment 6900.

In a preferred embodiment, third hole 6504 can be a hole through another portion of funnel attachment 6500 (FIGS. 69-72).

Gap 6508 can exist on funnel 300 or on funnel attachment 6500. In a preferred embodiment, gap 6508 can be between at least one finger 6506, where finger 6506 can comprise a hole 6502 through which pin 6400 can be removably fixable. A benefit of gap 6508 can be to facilitate quick locking and quick release when desired.

FIG. 66 illustrates a top view of a funnel attachment of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 67 illustrates a flat view of a funnel attachment of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 68 illustrates a side view of a funnel attachment of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 69 illustrates a side view of a complementary attachment portion of an embodiment of the present invention.

Complementary attachment 6900 is shown in FIG. 69, in an embodiment. In a preferred embodiment, complementary attachment 6900 can be a male funnel knuckle to fit a female funnel knuckle, by way of non-limiting illustration, as shown in FIG. 70. Complementary attachment 6900 can have a hole through which pin 6400 can at least partially be provided, and which can facilitate fixably or removably positioning funnel attachment 6500 together with complementary attachment 6900, to provide quick setup or takedown. A funnel attachment 6500 with first pin hole 6502, complementary attachment 6900 with a second pin hole 6902, and pin 6400 in combination can permit stronger fixing of funnel 300 with shell 202 while facilitating setup and takedown without the use of conventional hardware tools, including, by way of non-limiting illustration, a screwdriver, a hammer, or a wrench, or any combination thereof.

FIG. 70 illustrates a flat view of a complementary attachment with a funnel attachment of an embodiment of the present invention.

Pin 6400 is shown in FIG. 70, with funnel attachment 6500, complementary attachment 6900. First hole 6502 is implied (FIGS. 64-68). In an embodiment, first hole 6502 can be alignable with second hole 6902 through complementary attachment 6900. Pin 6400, or any equivalent thereof, can be rapidly set through both funnel attachment 6500 and complementary attachment 6900.

FIG. 71 illustrates an angled view of a complementary attachment of an embodiment of the present invention.

Complementary attachment 6900 is shown in FIG. 71 with second hole 6902.

FIG. 72 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a complementary attachment of an embodiment of the present invention.

Top channel 1108 is shown in FIGS. 73-76.

FIG. 73 illustrates a top view of a top channel of an embodiment of the present invention. Top channel 1108 is shown in FIG. 73.

FIG. 74 illustrates an angled view of a top channel of an embodiment of the present invention. Top channel 1108 is shown in FIG. 74.

FIG. 75 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a top channel of an embodiment of the present invention. Top channel 1108 is shown in FIG. 75.

FIG. 76 illustrates an end view of a top channel of an embodiment of the present invention. Top channel 1108 is shown in FIG. 76.

FIG. 77 illustrates a top view of a bottom channel of an embodiment of the present invention. Bottom channel 1110 is shown in FIG. 77.

FIG. 78 illustrates an angled view of a bottom channel of an embodiment of the present invention. Bottom channel 1110 is shown in FIG. 78.

FIG. 79 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a bottom channel of an embodiment of the present invention. Bottom channel 1110 is shown in FIG. 79.

FIG. 80 illustrates an end view of a bottom channel of an embodiment of the present invention. Velcro 1212 is shown in FIG. 80 with bottom channel 1110.

FIG. 81 illustrates a side view of an end frame of an embodiment of the present invention. End frame 8100 is shown in FIG. 81 with shell 202 overall, top channel 1108 and bottom channel 1110.

End frame 8100 can be part of the overall frame 1400. End frame 8100 can support the end portions of shell 202 with a support structure, beam, flatbar, or any form providing height to the overall volume of shell 202 by heightening frame 1400. A benefit of end frame 8100 can be to facilitate enhanced structural integrity to shell 202 by strengthening the overall frame 1400. Another benefit of end frame 8100 can be to protect spool 206 within shell 202. In a preferred embodiment, end frame 8100 can comprise four flatbars at the corners of shell 202. In a preferred embodiment, a flatbar of end frame 1800 can be 32.250″ in height, 2.000″ wide flatbars made of 2.0″×0.25″ aluminum; in addition, the bars of end frame 8100, preferably four bars, can connect the top channel 1108 and to bottom channel 1110, by way of non-limiting illustration, at the corners, the entire side, or to form the entire shell 202 from bottom to top of the shell 202. In embodiments where top frame 1108 and bottom frame 1108 are attached with end frame 8100 in place, the outer height inclusive can be 40.250.

FIG. 82 illustrates a side view of an end frame of an embodiment of the present invention.

End frame 8100 is shown in FIG. 82.

FIG. 83 illustrates a top view of a ply panel of an embodiment of the present invention.

Top 1100 can comprise panels 8300, 8302, and 8304. Rig plates 2600 can fit between these panels, preferably made of plywood.

FIG. 84 illustrates a flat view of a side panel of an embodiment of the present invention. Side panel 8400 is shown in FIG. 84. Side panel 8400 can be part of shell 202, preferably made of aluminum or plywood. Side panel 8400 can be attached to top channel 1108 and bottom channel 1110 via holes.

FIG. 85 illustrates a side view of a bottom panel of an embodiment of the present invention. Snoot 300 is shown in FIG. 85, with bottom panel 8500 which can cover the bottom of shell 202.

FIG. 86 illustrates a flat view of an end panel of an embodiment of the present invention. End panel 8600 is shown in FIG. 86.

FIG. 87 illustrates a side view of an end frame of an embodiment of the present invention. Door 1104 is shown in FIG. 87.

FIG. 88 illustrates a side view of an end frame of an embodiment of the present invention. Door 1104 is shown in FIG. 88, with hinge 1112, and handle 8800.

FIG. 89 illustrates a circuit diagram of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 89 provides a control aspect of the present invention. In a preferred embodiment, remote control 504 can trigger and control engine 200. In a preferred embodiment, initial acceleration time can be 0.50 seconds, and deceleration time can be 3.00 seconds. Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, curtain 100 can already be wound onto spool 2006 in a very short time, 1-3 second, which can be noticably faster than a 5 second conventional sniffer. In a preferred embodiment, engine 200 can be programmatically controlled via a grounded Fuji Electric Model FRN007E1S-2U Variable Speed Drive (VSD) with five-horsepower engine 200 coupled with a 208v brake and powered with a conventional 120VAC utility outlet. In a preferred embodiment, a 24V AC/DC PSP24-0245 can obtain a signal to power forward or reverse. In a preferred embodiment, a selector can permit manipulation of forward, reverse, acceleration or deceleration timers, deceleration timer, Controls can be local or remote from shell 202. Control commands can include, by way of non-limiting illustration: forward to pull curtain 100 toward shell 202 or onto spool 206, reverse to release curtain 100 from spool 206, maximum throttle, off, brake, boost torque 3.00 Hertz slow speed, 15.00 full load amperes. In a preferred embodiment, there can be a safety hatch that can be switched on or off, preferably by covering the trigger button, which can arm the engine 200 when the hatch is opened. A brake can slow down rotation of engine 200 or spool 206. One having ordinary skill in the pertinent art would know how to incorporate the circuit diagram of FIG. 89 consistent with the present invention.

CONCLUSION

In summary, the present invention provides a system and method for remotely adjusting the height of a platform with at least one object upon the platform without the need for cables, wires, or levers. The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. It is intended that the scope of the invention not be limited by this detailed description, but by the claims and the equivalents to the claims appended hereto.

Claims

1. A system, comprising:

a rotatable spool;

an engine configured to impart torque on the spool via a spool drive axis;

a curtain attachable to the spool;

a shell comprising an outer surface; and

a fabric protector attached to the outer surface, wherein the fabric protector comprises an at least one selected from: shroud, wheel, beveled edge, fabric, fabric comprising velcro, or any combination thereof.

2. the system of claim 1, further comprising: a conically-shaped funnel attachable to a shell.

3. the system of claim 2, further comprising: a cord, the cord being attachable to the spool and to the curtain.

4. the system of claim 2, further comprising: a shell to which the funnel is attached.

5. the system of claim 2, wherein the shell is formed around the spool.

6. the system of claim 2, further comprising: a rim formed at a hole in the shell.

7. (canceled)

8. (canceled)

9. the system of claim 2, further comprising: a plurality of wheels on the shell.

10. the system of claim 2, where the plurality of wheels is capable of rolling when the funnel is detached.

11. A method, comprising:

pulling a curtain toward a shell;

rotating a spool to wind a cord, the cord being connected to the curtain.

12. the method of claim 11, further comprising: pulling the cord into the shell.

13. the method of claim 11, further comprising: obscuring the spool behind a portion of the shell.

14. the method of claim 11, further comprising: pulling the curtain into a shell.

15. the method of claim 11, further comprising: pulling the curtain through a conically-shaped funnel.

16. the method of claim 11, further comprising: wherein the funnel comprises a wider opening away from the shell.

17. A system, comprising:

a hanger from which a curtain is capable of being released;

a spool to which a cord is attachable, the spool being rotatable on a spool drive axis; and

a motor drive axis chained to the spool drive axis.

18. the system of claim 17, further comprising: a rim through which the cord is pulled.

19. the system of claim 17, further comprising: a shell, where the spool is in the shell.

20. the system of claim 18, where the rim is formed at the outer perimeter of a funnel.

21. the system of claim 20, where the funnel is reattachable to the shell.