Cover For Shelter Patents (Class 135/115)
  • Patent number: 6701948
    Abstract: An outdoor modular shelter shell with simplified connection system comprises a flexible covering having a central portion which overlays a supporting frame. Four displaceable/connectable side panels extend from the central portion to form an enclosure. A tail fastener/wall fastener connection system allows the user to completely displace walls and connect a plurality of shells to form a one room weather proof outdoor shelter with no restrictions between connected shells. Various individual wall panels may be added to transform the shelter from a fishing shelter to a hunting blind. The simplified connection system is very easy to use even with a gloved hand under low light conditions and provides a strong, weather tight, aesthetically pleasing, economical joint between the walls of an individual shelter or a plurality of connected shelters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventors: Brian David Jopp, Bobby D. Jopp
  • Patent number: 6681785
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a tent, and more particularly, to a waterproof structure of a tent floor corner portion which can obtain a perfect waterproof effect of a tent corner portion by forming a cut hole by cutting away a plurality of corner portions formed by fabric cloth sides and a fabric cloth floor surface of a tent, connecting a tarpaulin corner cloth to the cut hole to be overlapped with each other, attaching overlapped portions by sewing and heat-sealing a plurality of tarpaulin disc members sewn with a webbing tape to the tarpaulin corner cloth, which can manufacture a better-looking tent by differentiating the color of the tarpaulin corner cloth and presenting a variety of peculiar designs, and which can acquire a very economic effect by obtaining a maximum waterproof effect with a minimum amount of an expensive tarpaulin cloth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Inventor: Kyong Jai Choi
  • Publication number: 20040006928
    Abstract: The House Savior, is new in the art of firefighting. It is simple, and could save many houses, from burning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel Bascom Walker
  • Patent number: 6672322
    Abstract: A screen assembly for storing wild game meat comprising: a mesh cylinder fabricated of mesh material and having an open upper end; and a top section fabricated of waterproof material and affixed over the upper end of the mesh cylinder, a locking clip having a cable extending therefrom and through the upper section, the cable being fixed relative to the upper section, the clip adapted to be coupled around a tree limb in an operative orientation, the cable having a lower end including a hook for hanging wild game meat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Mark H. Littlefield
  • Patent number: 6647561
    Abstract: A spool for use with a swimming pool cover or with a shade cover. The spool has a roller assembly, and a cover (not shown) may be wound onto the roller assembly or unwound from the assembly. The roller assembly has a pre-tensioned rubber strip that when viewed in transverse cross-section is substantially rectangular in shape and two opposing sides of the rectangle are notched. This strip is tensioned when the cover is unwound from the spool and a locking mechanism retains the cover in a desired unwound position against the tension of the rubber strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Neumann Steel PTY Ltd.
    Inventors: Robert Niven Walton, Lawrence John Walton, Duncan B Gilmore, Nicholas D Agnew
  • Publication number: 20030127123
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a tent, and more particularly, to a waterproof structure of a tent floor corner portion which can obtain a perfect waterproof effect of a tent corner portion by forming a cut hole by cutting away a plurality of corner portions formed by fabric cloth sides and a fabric cloth floor surface of a tent, connecting a tarpaulin corner cloth to the cut hole to be overlapped with each other, attaching overlapped portions by sewing and heat-sealing a plurality of tarpaulin disc members sewn with a webbing tape to the tarpaulin corner cloth, which can manufacture a better-looking tent by differentiating the color of the tarpaulin corner cloth and presenting a variety of peculiar designs, and which can acquire a very economic effect by obtaining a maximum waterproof effect with a minimum amount of an expensive tarpaulin cloth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Inventor: Kyong Jai Choi
  • Publication number: 20030094192
    Abstract: A method of constructing a water-resistant corner for a tent or other fabric structure, and the corner formed therefrom. A protective panel may be laid over a flooring material sheet, and the sheet and the protective panel are folded into a corner. The formed corner may then be turned inside out, so that the protective panel is located on the outside of the newly-formed corner. The protective panel thereby covers the outermost corner of the flooring, and the seam formed at that corner. An interior waterproof layer, such as a waterproof sealing tape, may be attached on the inside of the inverted corner to act as a further moisture barrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Applicant: The Coleman Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Howard A. Hardee, Suk Keun Yoo
  • Patent number: 6546943
    Abstract: An orchard tent folding structure comprises two frame sets and a shelter member having a plurality of tubular members and a plastic cloth. The frame sets comprise a rod member which is provided with a power source to drive the rod member to turn, a sprocket wheel and a slide wheel linked with the sprocket wheel by a chain member. The sprocket wheel turns along with the rod member. The chain member is formed of a chain section and a steel cable section. The shelter member is fastened at one side with the chain section, and at other side with a first steel cable and a second steel cable of the frame sets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Inventor: Zong-Tsan Lin
  • Publication number: 20030024560
    Abstract: A tent is adapted for attachment to a cot. A preferred version of a tent includes a body made of fabric or similar sheet material, with a floor, two ends and two sides. A frame includes first and second frame poles carried within sleeves defined within the fabric body. Four to six fasteners secure the body to the frame of the cot. Each fastener passes around the frame, through a hole defined between the cot frame and cot fabric, and is secured to the bottom of the floor. A rain guard includes two opposed side panels and two opposed end panels. The rain guard prevents rain from pooling on the tent floor or on the horizontal fabric of the cot. Rain moving down the fabric body is guided past the tent floor and cot fabric, where it is released.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Wallace G. Tomason
  • Publication number: 20030024564
    Abstract: A flexible shelter structure is disclosed. The flexible shelter structure has an elongated flexible main pole having first and second ends terminating in a substantially common plane, such as the ground or a base. The pole typically assumes a substantially arcuate shape under tension. A plurality of spars are connected to the pole in a flexible floating arrangement to form a flexible frame. The spars typically assume a generally arcuate shape under tension but their ends do not terminate in the common plane. A membrane is connected to the flexible frame to tension the main pole and the spars and define a substantially sheltered space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Robert E. Gillis
  • Publication number: 20030019515
    Abstract: The invention relates to a pneumatic wall structure and a method of making and erecting same. The pneumatic wall structure includes an inner flexible tent sheet, a central flexible tent sheet and an outer flexible tent sheet. The inner, the central and the outer flexible tent sheets are arranged to form a two-layer wall structure comprising (i) an inner layer formed by the inner tent sheet and the central tent sheet and, (ii) an outer layer formed by the central tent sheet and the outer tent sheet. The inner layer is inflatable and provides a main support structure for the wall structure, and the outer layer forms a convection space into which an ambient air is capable of flowing. The inflatable support tubes are arranged between the central tent sheet and the outer tent sheet to provide redundancy to the main support structure and to provide a spacer between the central tent sheet and the outer tent sheet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventors: Albert Fritzche, Peter Geiselhart
  • Patent number: 6505638
    Abstract: The canopy structure of the present invention includes a generally rigid internal frame structure comprised of light-weight metal tubes and a pliable, waterproof covering such as nylon or other functionally similar fabric. The canopy covering further includes a series of grommet reinforced securing points which are each adapted to receive a tie-down or securing cord. These securing cords are formed of a loop of elastic or shock cord material which is attached to a ball-shaped stopper. Threaded into the edges of the canopy end panels are a pair of elastic bolt cords which also incorporate ball-shaped stoppers at both ends. The canopy covering is stretched taughtly across the top of the frame structure and attached to individual horizontal frame members using the elastic securing cords. Grommets located along the sides of the covering are attached to individual vertical frame members using both the elastic securing cords and an associated securing or locking tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Inventors: Billy R. Powell, Toney A. Powell, David R. Powell
  • Patent number: 6502593
    Abstract: In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a method of erecting a tent comprising two or more beam assemblies is provided. Each of the beam assemblies comprises a roof portion and a pair of legs for supporting the roof portion. A number of base members are secured to the ground at predetermined locations. The roof portions are pivotally connected to the base members and rotated upwardly from the ground while maintaining the connection to the base members. A first side of each of the roof portions is disconnected from an associated one of the base members and raised above the base member. A first leg is connected to the first side. The first leg is then connected to the base member. A second side of each of the roof portions is disconnected from an associated one of the base members and raised above the base member. The second leg is connected to the second side. The second leg is then connected to the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: S & S Structures, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert M. Stafford
  • Patent number: 6499497
    Abstract: A tent with a retractable fly and a method for selectively adjusting the fly from inside the tent is disclosed. The tent includes a shell, a frame configured to support the shell, and a sheet adjustably coupled to the tent. The sheet may adjust between a substantially extended position and a substantially retracted position by a person inside of the tent. The method includes providing a cord having a first end attached to the fly and a second end disposed inside the tent, and actuating the position of the fly by adjusting the length of cord disposed inside the tent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: Johnson Outdoors Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas R. Swetish, Kurt W. Heisler
  • Publication number: 20020179133
    Abstract: A multi-sided structure for outdoor use comprising a shell having a plurality of panels. The shell further having a plurality of apertures and a means for entering and exiting the shell. The structure further comprising a plurality of support poles attached to an inner surface of the shell. Generally, the poles overlap at an upper portion of the shell to define the overall shape of the structure. Each support pole extends from a first lower portion of the shell, through the upper portion of the shell, and to a second lower portion of the shell. Each aperture is configured to allow a user to view an object located beyond the structure. The structure further comprising means for securing the structure to an outdoor surface to prevent unwanted movement of the structure during operation and use of the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventor: Michael Abbinante
  • Patent number: 6474022
    Abstract: A weather resistant commodity stockpile and collection pond covering system made up of a plurality of sheets joined together in waterproof seams. A plurality of flexible cords are tightly encapsulated and fixed in each sheet at spaced apart locations within thermally welded prayer seams and utilized for retention of the cover system and the hanging of ballast bags. The peeling stresses on the prayer seams are transferred as shearing stresses to lap seams formed by welding choker strips to the cover sheets on either side of each prayer seam. Side cords encapsulated in edge seams along side edges of adjacent sheets are abutted together and secured by flexible ties to form joints between sheets. Those joints are made waterproof by edge flaps attached to the sheets which are extended over each joint and sealed to the face of an adjoining sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: Canamer International, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul B. Double, Robert E. Dotterwick, Jerry N. Ehlenfeldt, Leslie J Davidshofer
  • Publication number: 20020157696
    Abstract: A protective covering device having a weather-resistant sheet of material wound about a spring-loaded roller, which material may be extended off the roller and over an object to be covered in a relatively easy manner, and which material may then be spring-assisted back onto the roller during the uncovering of such object. The spring-loaded roller is positioned with a housing that is either anchored to the same surface on which the object to be covered is positioned, or is mountable to a vertically-oriented surface located near one end of the object to be covered. The opposite end of the cover has a four-point multiple curved contour configuration to provide better wrapping both on the storage roller and about the end of a vehicle to be covered. Elastic attachments between the cover and the draw bar serve to draw it over the vehicle and provide convenient and efficient wrapping of the cover about the end of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventor: Paul W. O'Brien
  • Publication number: 20020139408
    Abstract: A lightweight, portable, inflatable cover to protect a vehicle from the elements that can dent and damage a vehicle surface, a tent for summer camping or winter ice fishing a cover or cushion to protect items in transit. Having a multitude of air chambers (26) vertical walls adhered to a top layer and a bottom layer with openings (28) in inner vertical walls allowing air to pass through openings filling air chambers as cover is inflated. An air valve stem (46) an air release screw in plug (32) to inflate and deflate cover. Elastic opening for antenna (40), grasp handles (42), reflector strips for safety with a identification name or number (22). Doors or flaps (11) with large zippers (20), and clear inserts (48). A cord (18) and locking pulley (16) to secure cover to vehicle and grommets (36). Air vents covered with breathable material (25) prevents air lifting, and circulation of air keeps interior of vehicle cooler in the summer and air vents are insulated for winter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventor: Phyllis Muriel Mitzner
  • Patent number: 6450188
    Abstract: A fumigation tent includes a frame suspended from a structure by support cables, the frame having an underside; a tarp adapted to be mounted to the top side of the frame, the tarp hanging from the frame defining a tent having a top and side curtains having a lower periphery that defines a bottom perimeter; a sealing arrangement for connecting and sealing the top of the tarp to the frame; a first plurality of cables for raising and lowering the side curtains and being connected to the side curtains and to means for raising and lowering the first plurality of cables; a second plurality of cables for raising and lowering the frame and being connected to the frame and to means for raising and lowering the second plurality of cables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Western Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Chris Langhart
  • Publication number: 20020124877
    Abstract: A portable shelter is provided which is particularly useful for shielding seated occupants in a boat and the like from the weather including wind and water spray. The shelter includes a base member and a generally U-shaped frame member which pivotally mounted on the base member for movement between an extended position in which the frame member extends upwardly from the base member and a collapsed position folded alongside the base member. Sheeted material is provided for spanning between base member and the frame member in the extended position. A tensioning mechanism is coupled between the base member and the frame member for biasing the frame member into the extended position with the sheeted material under tension. The tensioning mechanism is collapsible with the frame member into the collapsed position thus providing an easily portable shelter which is self supporting in the extended position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Applicant: Dufort Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Claude Dufort
  • Patent number: 6422253
    Abstract: The present invention provides a mechanized fumigation tent with a composite closing structure. The composite closing structure is connected to the bottom perimeter of side curtains for sealing the bottom perimeter of the side curtains. The composite closing structure has at least a first component and second component. The first component is a structural support component and has sufficient rigidity to flex no greater than 6 inches over a 10 foot length with a fulcrum weight of 100 pounds. The second component is a sealing component and is formed of flexible material. Further, the sealing component may be a flexible base mounted along the bottom perimeter for receiving, holding and releasing water from an external water supply. When the sealing component holds water, it will seal the tent to a floor. In a preferred embodiment, the structural support component is formed of a triangular cross-sectional shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Western Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth P. Glynn, Christopher D. Langhart
  • Publication number: 20020083970
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fumigation tent which includes a frame suspended from a structure by support cables, the frame having an underside; a tarp adapted to be mounted to the top side of the frame, the tarp hanging from the frame defining a tent having a top and side curtains having a lower periphery that defines a bottom perimeter; a sealing arrangement for connecting and sealing the top of the tarp to the frame; a first plurality of cables for raising and lowering the side curtains and being connected to the side curtains and to means for raising and lowering the first plurality of cables; a second plurality of cables for raising and lowering the frame and being connected to the frame and to means for raising and lowering the second plurality of cables.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Applicant: Western Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Chris Langhart
  • Publication number: 20020085949
    Abstract: The present invention provides a mechanized fumigation tent with a composite closing structure. The composite closing structure is connected to the bottom perimeter of side curtains for sealing the bottom perimeter of the side curtains. The composite closing structure has at least a first component and second component. The first component is a structural support component and has sufficient rigidity to flex no greater than 6 inches over a 10 foot length with a fulcrum weight of 100 pounds. The second component is a sealing component and is formed of flexible material. Further, the sealing component may be a flexible base mounted along the bottom perimeter for receiving, holding and releasing water from an external water supply. When the sealing component holds water, it will seal the tent to a floor. In a preferred embodiment, the structural support component is formed of a triangular cross-sectional shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Applicant: Western Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth P. Glynn, Christopher D. Langhart
  • Patent number: 6394118
    Abstract: A quick setup canopy apparatus is configured for use at the end of a vehicle. The apparatus includes a pair of base plate units adapted to be anchored by the weight of respective vehicle wheels. Each of the base plate units has a respective support member pivotally connected thereto. An arcuate web support frame is connected to distal ends of the support members in cantilevered fashion. A flexible web material is maintained on the web support frame to provide a covered canopy region underneath. Preferably, the framework of the apparatus comprises a plurality of telescopically connected rod elements to permit storage in a relatively small volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventors: Donald S. Cikanowick, Gary Munson
  • Publication number: 20020053171
    Abstract: The present invention is a netting system (10) for use with bleachers and grandstands (11) to prevent children, persons, and debris from falling to the ground. A first end (12a) of a net (12) is operatively connected to a cable (18) proximate an attachment point (11a) proximate the top of the bleachers (11). Then, a second end (12b) of the net (12) is passed over the understructure (11c) of the bleachers (11) and then operatively connected to a cable (25) proximate an attachment point (11b) proximate the bottom of the bleachers (11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2001
    Publication date: May 9, 2002
    Inventor: David S. Denny
  • Patent number: 6374842
    Abstract: The triangular, wedge shaped erectable shelter includes a canopy and a leg assembly supporting the canopy. A perimeter truss linkage assembly is connected to the leg assembly, and each of the perimeter truss pairs includes first and second link members pivotally connected together in a scissors configuration, with the outer end of each first link member connected to the upper end of a leg, and the outer end of each second link slidably connected to the leg. The shelter includes a flexible pole member removably mountable to the upper end of at least one of the legs of the shelter to extend across the shelter and support the canopy of the shelter. The flexible pole member is preferably removably mounted in an indexing hole in a bracket affixed to the upper end of at least one of the legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Publication number: 20020043030
    Abstract: A novel airplane shelter provides a plurality of arched vertical support members arranged axially along a line corresponding to the fuselage of an airplane to be sheltered. A cantilevered beam is attached to the apex of each arched vertical support member, forming a “spine” along the top of the aligned arched support members. The cantilevered beam is attached at one end to the rearwardmost arched support member, and the opposite end extends forwardly past the forwardmost arched support member to a point corresponding to the forwardmost point of an airplane to be sheltered. Separate lateral support members are placed at points corresponding to the wingtips of the airplane. The result is an open frame that defines a volume capable of enclosing an airplane. A covering material is placed over the open frame and stretched taut over the entire structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2001
    Publication date: April 18, 2002
    Inventor: Donald W. Bogart
  • Patent number: 6371144
    Abstract: A tent having the overall appearance and shape of a NASCAR vehicle has fabric suspended between two sections of flexible pipe manufactured from PVC or fiberglass. The flexible tube sections cross forming two gentle smooth curves which when viewed from above form a flattened X. The bottom panel of the tent is a rectangle which has two parallel long sides and two parallel short sides and which may be staked to the ground. Two sides extend upwardly from the two long sides of the rectangle, and have the appearance of the sides of an automobile. The front bumper, the hood, the front windshield, the car top, the back window, rear spoiler and the rear bumper are formed by a panel which is joined to the tent bottom and the tent sides having printed indicia thereon representative of the various automotive parts. The driver's side of the car has a door formed by a zipper. A screen flap within the door forms an inner screen door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Capital Concepts, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey C. Ragatz
  • Patent number: 6367495
    Abstract: The canopy structure of the present invention includes a generally rigid internal frame structure comprised of light-weight metal tubes and a pliable, waterproof covering such as nylon or other functionally similar fabric. The canopy covering further includes a series of grommet reinforced securing points which are each adapted to receive a tie-down or securing cord. These securing cords are formed of a loop of elastic or shock cord material which is attached to a ball-shaped stopper. Threaded into the edges of the canopy end panels are a pair of elastic bolt cords which also incorporate ball-shaped stoppers at both ends. The canopy covering is stretched taughtly across the top of the frame structure and attached to individual horizontal frame members using the elastic securing cords. Grommets located along the sides of the covering are attached to individual vertical frame members using both the elastic securing cords and an associated securing or locking tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Inventors: Billy R. Powell, Toney A. Powell, David R. Powell
  • Patent number: 6357462
    Abstract: A portable playpen/mattress for babies is described. The playpen includes a flexible base and a plurality of substantially open walls all consecutively attached to each other. The walls are attachable to the base substantially perpendicular to the base. When the walls are attached to the base, the playpen is in an erected configuration, and when the walls are detached and folded one on top of another, the playpen is a collapsed configuration. The base is attachable to the walls in two configurations. When the corners of the base are curled around the leg portions of the walls, the base is in a rimmed configuration, and when the leg portions are directly attached to an upper surface of the base, the base is in a flat configuration. A reversible roof is selectively attachable to the walls. An outer cover is adapted to enclose the base and the walls in the erected configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Battat, Inc.
    Inventors: Janejira Laosunthara, Darani Laosonthorn
  • Patent number: 6347638
    Abstract: An article of manufacture for a portable shelter suspended above the ground having a flexible floor supported by a plurality of straps, a flexible framework attached to the floor, a canopy suspended over the framework for enclosing a space; and support means attached to the framework for attaching the shelter to a plurality of load bearing members. The floor may be further supported by rigid support poles made of PVC placed within a fold sewn along the shorter length of both ends of the floor. The floor may be further supported by diagonally crossing support straps under the floor. In another preferred embodiment, the floor may be rigid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Inventors: James I. Scott, George D. Scott
  • Patent number: 6334456
    Abstract: A large multi-level tent that has an interior divided into two levels. The tent is a ¾ sphere that is supported by shaped tubes, a set of braces, and a top band. The platform has polyvinylchloride (PVC) posts to secure the platform to the ground. Each post extends upward to the full desired height for a two level living space. Metal brackets are secured to the vertical posts at each floor location. These brackets hold 2×4 horizontal wooden frame members. The frame members are reinforced with additional wood framing, similar to deck construction. Each deck is then covered with plywood sheathing to form a “floor” surface. After the platform is built, the tent is constructed around it. The tent has frame, which is covered by a canvas outer covering that is attached to all the tent frame elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Inventor: Christopher Nevak
  • Publication number: 20010052356
    Abstract: The present invention is an enclosure for sheltering a small aircraft, and provides an arcuate roof frame supported by a base frame. The roof frame has a fixed roof portion engaging a movable roof portion and a hydraulic system for adjusting the position of the movable roof. The fixed and movable roof portions are mutually engaged by a hinge system enabling vertical arcuate motion of the movable roof portion relative to the fixed roof portion. A fabric or thin sheet material cover is mounted over the fixed and the movable roofs so as to protect an aircraft stored within the shelter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Publication date: December 20, 2001
    Inventor: James M. Ross
  • Patent number: 6330889
    Abstract: A compact shade for the face of a sunbather or someone lying in the sun. The shade allows the circulation of air to flow about the sunbathers face, neck and head while tanning the rest of their body. The shade folds and can be used as a carrying case for personal goods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2001
    Inventor: Kym J. Overton
  • Patent number: 6325085
    Abstract: A flexible material is included within a structure to prevent wind borne missiles or debris from penetrating the confines of the structure. The flexible material may be included within the confines of a building in a free standing form or incorporating one or more interior walls of the building or structure. The flexible material may be attached to the exterior of a structure to cover openings in the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Targus International Company
    Inventor: Ted Gower
  • Publication number: 20010042563
    Abstract: A fixed geometry shelter system supported above the ground for receiving at least one person is provided. The fixed geometry shelter system comprises a shelter cover supported above the ground thereby defining a covered ground area. A first shelter opening tilts in a first general direction away from the covered ground area and has a first angle less than ninety (90°) degrees relative to the ground. A second shelter opening tilts in a second general direction away from the covered ground area and has a second angle less than ninety (90°) degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Demetrios G.C. Coupounas
  • Patent number: 6311709
    Abstract: A self-erecting, collapsible and foldable dome structure comprises an armature formed by two unconnected loops of resiliently flexible wire concentrically and orthogonally intersecting at the center of the structure, and being bent into a dome shaped configuration. The fabric cover comprises two commensurate cruciform sheets joined around their peripheries to form an envelope containing the armature, and a series of gore panels filing the gaps between the arms of the cruciform envelope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Billwin Auto Accessories, Ltd.
    Inventors: Wai Hang Louie, Ming Tak Yau
  • Publication number: 20010035204
    Abstract: An orchard tent folding structure comprises two frame sets and a shelter member having a plurality of tubular members and a plastic cloth. The frame sets comprise a rod member which is provided with a power source to drive the rod member to turn, a sprocket wheel and a slide wheel linked with the sprocket wheel by a chain member. The sprocket wheel turns along with the rod member. The chain member is formed of a chain section and a steel cable section. The shelter member is fastened at one side with the chain section, and at other side with a first steel cable and a second steel cable of the frame sets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Publication date: November 1, 2001
    Inventor: Zong-Tsan Lin
  • Patent number: 6305396
    Abstract: A collapsible structure includes a plurality of foldable frame members each having a folded and an unfolded orientation. A fabric material is provided for covering portions of the frame members to form a side panel for each frame member. The structure can have a removable roof. The structure may be folded and stored by folding the side panels and their corresponding frame members on top of each other about the hinge portions to have the side panels and frame members overlying each other. The overlaying side panels and frame members are then collapsed by twisting and folding to form a plurality of concentric frame members and side panels to substantially reduce the size of the shade structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 6296002
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a lightweight collapsible enclosure. The enclosure is adapted to attach to or about a folding chair. The enclosure provides vertical and lateral spans about and above the folding chair. A canopy is disposed over the spans to create an enclosure. The enclosure is readily collapsible with a folding chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Inventor: Minas Tashchyan
  • Patent number: 6296004
    Abstract: A sun shield capable of protecting persons or plants against the harmful effects of incident radiation and being formed from a substantially transparent flexible material (13) which at least substantially absorbs and/or reflects incident radiation in the ultraviolet and infrared frequency ranges and which may be repeatedly folded without becoming damaged. The supple, flexible and durable transparent material (13) may be mounted on a framework (14) to be attached to, for example, a child's car seat (11) or pushchair (26) or to serve as a parasol or canopy, or to protect plants from excessive ultraviolet or infrared radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Inventor: Linda Carol Gordon
  • Patent number: 6276381
    Abstract: A protective covering device having a weather-resistant sheet of material wound about a spring-loaded roller, which material may be extended off the roller and over an object to be covered in a relatively easy manner, and which material may then be spring-assisted back onto the roller during the uncovering of such object. Simple air buffered deceleration of the cover as it settles over the object to be covered is designed into the apparatus of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Inventor: Paul W. O'Brien
  • Patent number: 6276383
    Abstract: A boatlift storage net for storing a plurality of items under a boatlift canopy. The inventive device includes a support member comprised of a netting material, a perimeter support secured about the outer perimeter of the support member, a pair of corner straps secured to opposing corners of the perimeter support, a plurality of side straps secured to the perimeter support on three sides, and a plurality of male fasteners and female fasteners secured to the side straps and the corner straps. The side straps are positioned about the side members of a canopy frame while the corner straps are secured about the corner arced members within the front end of the boatlift. Various items may be positioned upon the support member out of view and protected from the elements of weather.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignee: Stow-zall, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradley M. Galstad
  • Publication number: 20010006074
    Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided that have a single panel having a foldable frame member having a folded and an unfolded orientation, with a fabric material covering selected portions of the frame member to form the panel when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation, the fabric assuming the unfolded orientation of the frame member. The single panel can further include an amusement feature provided thereon, or can be used as a cover for an object, a pool, pond, box, case or shelter, or can be used as a base with an opening provided in the fabric through which an object can be inserted. The single panels can even be combined to form structures having different configurations and utility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Publication date: July 5, 2001
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 6253777
    Abstract: A flame resistant, lightweight tent liner is disclosed. The tent liner is made from flame resistant polyester fibers. In one embodiment, the tent liner is opaque and white in appearance in order to provide maximum lighting inside a tent while at the same time preventing bystanders on the outside of the tent from looking into the tent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Safety Components Fabric Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerry C. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6220264
    Abstract: This invention provides in an article of manufacture having a fabric support surface: a fabric support surface; a peripheral frame for the support surface, said frame having opposed base sections and opposed flexible arch sections extending between the base sections; and arch flexing means for moving the opposed base sections towards each other to flex the arch sections outwardly of each other and for maintaining the base sections from separation whereby to tension the fabric support surface between the arch sections and form a firm support for weight placed thereon and to restrain the effect of weight thereon from moving the opposed arch sections inwardly of each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Terrelogic, Inc.
    Inventor: Duncan Newman
  • Patent number: 6220263
    Abstract: An improved inflatable protective fabric enclosure for an automobile. The enclosure has a base frame for stabilizing and locating the enclosure. The improvement includes the following features. One or more hoops support the fabric. Each hoop has two ends. Frame clips attach the hoop ends to the base frame. Each frame clip has a pintle for engaging each end of the hoop. An upper portion of fabric of the enclosure has hoop loops, for locating and stabilizing the hoop at a top of the hoop's arc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: William J. Weiner
    Inventor: Rein S. Randmae
  • Patent number: 6202666
    Abstract: A tent having a panoramic image displayed thereon and method for making same. An observer inside the tent is surrounded by a panoramic or continuous image, giving him the illusion of being in the space represented by the image. The image is applied to flat two-dimensional sections which are attached together to form the three-dimensional tent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventor: Jürg Rehbein
  • Patent number: 6176050
    Abstract: A device for protection of property against high winds constructed from a flexible screen of predetermined strength and stretch characteristics, and in the form of a curtain, utilized to protect the side of a structure including its windows and doors from the strong winds and debris impacts occurring during a hurricane. The device is anchored in a manner to space it out from the area being protected according to formula provided, and can safely dissipate substantial impacting energy. The preferred embodiment attaches to an overhanging eave and the ground below protecting in addition to the windows and doors, planters, outdoor furniture, decorative shutters, downspouts, and such as are enclosed behind the barrier. Several methods of storage and deployment of the device are described including rolling, sliding, and converting to awning. The barrier has the added feature of acting as a tie down in certain applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Inventor: Ted Gower
  • Patent number: 6170503
    Abstract: A waterproof shelter includes a frame having two elongated first sides and two short second sides, a canopy mounted on the top of the frame and having two elongated first sides and two short second sides, two elongated side panels each mounted on one of the two first sides of the frame and each having a top side securely bonded to one of the two first sides of the canopy by means of a heat welding process, two end connecting panels each having a first side and a second side, the first side securely bonded to one of the two second sides of the canopy by means of a heat welding process, and at least one auxiliary sheltering panel mounted on one of the two second sides of the frame, and having a top side secured to the second side of one of the two end connecting panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: Taiwan Shin Yeh Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Mei-Mei Lin Shy