Lazy Tong Type Patents (Class 135/131)
  • Publication number: 20040144413
    Abstract: An expandable framework is provided that can move between an expanded state in use and a collapsed state for storage. A canopy covering is supported by the framework to form an expandable canopy. The framework includes a plurality of upright support members with adjacent ones of which being interconnected by edge scissor assemblies. Upper and lower mounts are located on the support members with some of the mounts having a lobe with outwardly facing substantially parallel sidewalls. At least some of the outer ends of the scissor assemblies are provided with socket fittings that have spaced-apart portions that define a channel opening therebetween to receive a lobe in close-fitted engagement wherein at least one of the portions has a substantially flat face that forms a sliding contact surface with the lobe. A fastener secures each lobe in a respective socket for pivotal movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Inventors: John T. Matthews, Timothy J. Martin
  • Publication number: 20040144414
    Abstract: A collapsible canopy frame is provided that includes elongated side poles each having a side and an end; and a plurality of wheel assemblies each having a mounting post and a wheel. The mounting post of each wheel assembly is supported on and extends transverse to a corresponding one of the elongated side poles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2004
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Inventor: Dong Woog Seo
  • Publication number: 20040144412
    Abstract: A tent structure includes four posts, four scissor-like linking rod sets, four retractable rod sets and a connector. The four posts are placed on four corners of the tent to form a square structure. Each post comprises a fixture at the top portion with a sleeve thereon at an upper portion and a sliding seat thereon at a lower portion. The sliding seat comprises a supporting rod. The four scissor-like linking rod sets are secured between the posts, respectively. One end of each retractable rod set is inserted through the sleeve of each post and the other end of the retractable rod set is pivoted to the connector, thus when the posts are expanded outwardly, the scissor-like linking rod sets are also expanded to form an arcuate tent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Inventor: Tony Tsai
  • Patent number: 6763842
    Abstract: A collapsible vehicle storage system having a pair of spaced apart, tapered side walls, where the distance therebetween is sufficient to accommodate a vehicle. The respective sides walls pivotally mount plural U-shaped support members, with adjacent members hinged together, where the members are covered by a flexible canopy, such as canvas. At least one ratchet arm is provided to manually pivot the respective U-shaped members from an open position to a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Jerry M. Blount
  • Patent number: 6739098
    Abstract: This invention discloses tongs-linkage, which, in its extended position, provides an essentially triangular-shaped surface, whereby the links of the tongs-linkage are themselves the panels that form the surface. Such assemblies may be planar, or, by use of intermediate hub elements, may form a surface with curvature. As such an assembly is compressed, the panel-links slide over one another, compressing down to a compact stack. Such tongs-linkages may be joined to similar linkages by pivots lying along their respective edges thereby forming extended structural surfaces. Surfaces that are planar, cone-shaped and doubly-curved surfaces of revolution are disclosed. In each case when the structure is retracted it compresses down to a compact linear element or ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Inventor: Charles Hoberman
  • Publication number: 20040084074
    Abstract: An expandable and collapsible canopy support having telescoping legs, a cantilevered roof truss, a plurality of scissored assemblies, and non-compressible pivoting mounting devices, operating to expand the canopy support for use, and operating to collapse the canopy support for storage. The canopy support comprises scissored assemblies, sliding and stationary pivotal mounts, a center dome assembly, and a cantilevered roof support assembly supporting the apex of a canopy. The preferred embodiment provides increased headroom beneath the canopy support, resistance to lateral deflections and torque on scissor elements during expansion and collapsing of the canopy structure, and resistance to vertical deflection of the canopy support and covering. The corner and center mounts have offset flanges which engage forked sockets on the end of each strut, and are secured by non-compressive bolts to form a freely pivoting support structure for strut assemblies during expanding and collapsing of the framework.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Steve Chiu, Xiang Sheng Zhu
  • Publication number: 20040079406
    Abstract: A collapsible canopy framework structure of a regular polygon comprises a plurality of supporting members and a center post, which are constituted as a column. A plurality of first frame assemblies comprises at least one frame unit with a pair of frames being pivoted in an X shape at their center to each other, in which the first frame assembly is mounted between the supporting member and the center post. The third frame assembly comprises at least one frame unit to be mounted between the supporting members to secure the gaps between the supporting members and provide a structural reinforcement to the upper portion of an overall structure. At least one flexible string is passed through the cross-points of the frame units of the first frame assembly on which a block nut structure is mounted and then fixed into the block nut structure to form a regular polygon of the supporting members and give a tension to the overall structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2002
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventor: Taewoong Byun
  • Patent number: 6725873
    Abstract: A tent frame structure includes an upright pole with a lower nest movably inserted thereon and an upper nest fixed at the upper end thereof; one end of a large supporting rod is pivotally jointed with the upper nest and the other end thereof is pivotally jointed with a small supporting rod; the other end of the small supporting rod is pivotally jointed unto a top nest; one end of a supporting strut is pivotally jointed with the midsection of the large supporting rod and the other end thereof is pivotally jointed unto the lower nest; a plurality of struts respectively joint two adjacent upper and lower nests; the jointed struts cross and hinge each other to compose a movable and foldable frame in a shape of a parallelogram; to merely slide the lower nest up and down enables the opening and folding of the tent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Inventor: Fu-Tien Liu
  • Patent number: 6718995
    Abstract: A collapsible awning (50) for a collapsible shelter (10) including canopy (15) supported by collapsible structure (20) including truss network (40) and legs (21). Collapsible awning (50) includes awning (90) supported by collapsible awning support (51). Awning support (51) includes a pair of side supports (52), each attached to a leg (21) of structure (20). Each side support (52) includes an arm (61) having a proximal end (62) pivotly attached to upper end (23) of leg (21) and a distal end (64) a strut (71) having outer end (74) pivotly attached to arm (61) and inner end (72) pivotly attached to slider (76) that slides up leg (21) to move side support (52) from a collapsed position to an erect position, wherein arm (61) is pivoted outward from leg (21). Awning (90) is attached to and snaps between arms (71).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventor: Martin J. Dotterweich
  • Patent number: 6708707
    Abstract: A collapsible support (10) for a canopy (15) comprises a peripheral structure (20) and a central structure (60). Peripheral structure (20) includes four telescopingly collapsible legs (21), each having a sliding member (35) slidingly connected thereto and four pairs (40P) of X-configured truss structures (41) connecting legs (21). Central structure (60) connects between opposite side X-configured truss structure pairs (40P) and is supported thereby. Central structure (60) generally includes a center post assembly (61) supported by two pairs of orthogonal center trusses (80). Canopy (15) is attached to peripheral structure (20) so as to tension canopy (15) over center post assembly (61) in an erect configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventors: Martin J. Dotterweich, Gilbert O. Martin, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040050412
    Abstract: A collapsible awning (50) for a collapsible shelter (10) including canopy (15) supported by collapsible structure (20) including truss network (40) and legs (21). Collapsible awning (50) includes awning (90) supported by collapsible awning support (51) Awning support (51) includes a pair of side supports (52), each attached to a leg (21) of structure (20) Each side support (52) includes an arm (61) having a proximal end (62) pivotly attached to upper end (23) of leg (21) and a distal end (64), and a strut (71) having outer end (74) pivotly attached to arm (61) and inner end (72) pivotly attached to slider (76) that slides up leg (21) to move side support (52) from a collapsed position to an erect position, wherein arm (61) is pivoted outward from leg (21).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: Martin J. Dotterweich
  • Patent number: 6701949
    Abstract: The lightweight erectable canopy shelters include a plurality of legs connected together by an extendible perimeter assembly of link members. In one embodiment, the roof structure is formed by a pole members pivotally mounted to the upper ends of the legs so as to extend across the shelter, and movable between a lowered position and a raised, upwardly arching position. The pole members are pivotally coupled to a central hub, and each of the pole members comprises pole sections hinged to permit downward folding and upward unfolding until they are fully extended. Corner support strut members are pivotally mounted to the legs, to be rotatable upwardly to engage and support the pole members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Publication number: 20040020526
    Abstract: A collapsible canopy comprises a covering [1] and a framework [2], covering [1] is put on collapsible framework [2], framework [2] includes a cross hinge [3], center members [4], U-shaped slide brackets [5], U-shaped slide brackets [6], side members [7], cantilever members [8], upside hinges [9], downside hinges [10], scissors frames [11], supporting members [12], springs [13], and holes [14]; each side of said framework [2] comprising collapsible cross beam comprising a plurality of scissors frames [11], each scissors frame comprising cross pieces [8] hinge connected to each other in the midway, two ends of each scissors frame [11] being respectively connected to two corresponding ends of the other scissors frame [11] of the same side by hinges, the other two ends of each scissors frame &lsqb
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Jianrong Deng
  • Publication number: 20040020527
    Abstract: The foldable tent having eaves at the top of the sides of the Foldable frame [2] foldable eave frames [3] that extend outwardly can be folded together along with the frame [2] are provided. The covering 1 is put on the frame [2] having eave frames [3] which are n-shaped frames composed of a front side and two lateral sides. The front side is composed of a plurality of scissors frames [4] and the number of which is same to that of the cross beam [8] of the corresponding side of the frame [2] between two poles. Each of the lateral side is composed of a scissors frame which is composed of two cross pieces pivotally connected to each other in the midway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Jianrong Deng
  • Patent number: 6666223
    Abstract: A collapsible frame for use in erecting tents, canopies and the like at outdoor venues includes a plurality of telescopic legs for providing vertical structural support, and a plurality of top corner joints each fixedly mounted upon a top end of a corresponding telescopic leg. A leg slider joint is adjustably mounted upon each telescopic leg for sliding along that telescopic leg. A truss pair of link members is mounted to a pair of top corner joints and to a corresponding pair of leg slider joints mounted on adjacent pairs of telescopic legs for providing a scissors connector. Finally, a plurality of canopy support arms each including a flexible connector, and each fixedly connected to a top corner joint and a corresponding leg slider joint, is employed for raising and lowering the collapsible frame as a stable unitary structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventors: Walter L. Price, Roy Justin Price
  • Publication number: 20030213513
    Abstract: A framework structure adapted to be folded and stored in a collapsed state and erected in an expanded state on a support surface. The framework structure includes a support structure consisting of a number of legs, each having a firm upper mount with at least one pivot and a slidable lower mount with at least one other pivot, a peripheral structure of a number of scissors each having four rods connected in pairs between their ends by pivots and further connected in pairs at upper and lower end parts by upper and lower pivots, respectively, and a central structure having rods connected with the scissors at one or more of the pivot connections of the scissor rods. The upper and lower free end parts of the rods of each scissor are formed with a bore each engaging a pivot of the upper or lower mounts of a leg, respectively, whereby the pivot is attached to the mount with means having a clearance to the rod and the rod end part is axially fixed to the pivot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2002
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Inventors: Steen Mandsfelt Eriksen, Stig Gamborg
  • Publication number: 20030183265
    Abstract: A tent frame structure includes an upright pole with a lower nest movably inserted thereon and an upper nest fixed at the upper end thereof; one end of a large supporting rod is pivotally jointed with the upper nest and the other end thereof is pivotally jointed with a small supporting rod; the other end of the small supporting rod is pivotally jointed unto a top nest; one end of a supporting strut is pivotally jointed with the midsection of the large supporting rod and the other end thereof is pivotally jointed unto the lower nest; a plurality of struts respectively joint two adjacent upper and lower nests; the jointed struts cross and hinge each other to compose a movable and foldable frame in a shape of a parallelogram; to merely slide the lower nest up and down enables the opening and folding of the tent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: Fu-Tien Liu
  • Publication number: 20030172966
    Abstract: A collapsible support (10) for a canopy (15) comprises a peripheral structure (20) and a central structure (60). Peripheral structure (20) includes four telescopingly collapsible legs (21), each having a sliding member (35) slidingly connected thereto and four pairs (40P) of X-configured truss structures (41) connecting legs (21). Central structure (60) connects between opposite side X-configured truss structure pairs (40P) and is supported thereby. Central structure (60) generally includes a center post assembly (61) supported by two pairs of orthogonal center trusses (80). Canopy (15) is attached to peripheral structure (20) so as to tension canopy (15) over center post assembly (61) in an erect configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Martin J. Dotterweich, Gilbert O. Martin
  • Publication number: 20030164185
    Abstract: A collapsible frame for use in erecting tents, canopies and the like at outdoor venues includes a plurality of telescopic legs for providing vertical structural support, and a plurality of top corner joints each fixedly mounted upon a top end of a corresponding telescopic leg. A leg slider joint is adjustably mounted upon each telescopic leg for sliding along that telescopic leg. A truss pair of link members is mounted to a pair of top corner joints and to a corresponding pair of leg slider joints. The link members are mounted on adjacent pairs of telescopic legs for providing a scissors connector. Finally, a plurality of canopy support arms, each including a swivel connector and each fixedly connected to a top corner joint and a corresponding leg slider joint, is employed for raising and lowering the collapsible frame as a stable unitary structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventor: Roy Justin Price
  • Patent number: 6601599
    Abstract: The quickly erectable canopy shelters include a plurality of legs connected together by an extendible perimeter assembly of link members. The roof structure is formed by a pole members pivotally mounted to the upper ends of the legs so as to extend across the shelter, and movable between a lowered position and a raised, upwardly arching position. The pole members are pivotally coupled to a central hub, and each of the pole members is formed of pole sections hinged to permit downward folding and upward unfolding until they are fully extended. Corner support strut members are pivotally mounted to the extendible perimeter assembly of link members adjacent to the legs, to support the pole members. The outer ends of the pole members are pivotally connected to the upper ends of the legs by pivoting link members that pivot between a lowered position and a raised position extending above the legs when the shelter is extended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 6598614
    Abstract: A tent frame includes post sets located at four ends. Every two neighboring post sets engage respectively with a first linkage rod set and a second linkage rod set. The first linkage rod set of one post set and the second linkage rod set of a neighboring post set are pivotally engaged with each other through a first driven rod set and a second driven rod set which in turn are pivotally engaged with each other through toggle joints in a cross and staggered manner. There is a center pole located in the center of the tent frame engaging with four passive bar sets. Each of the passive bar sets attaches to the juncture of the first and second driven rod set. The first and second linkage rod sets, the first and second driven rod sets, and the passive bar sets are pivotally engaged with one another through toggle joints, and are movable by the post sets for extending or folding the tent frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Inventor: Lausan Chung-Hsin Liu
  • Publication number: 20030131876
    Abstract: The lightweight erectable canopy shelters include a plurality of legs connected together by an extendible perimeter assembly of link members. In one embodiment, the roof structure is formed by a pole members pivotally mounted to the upper ends of the legs so as to extend across the shelter, and movable between a lowered position and a raised, upwardly arching position. The pole members are pivotally coupled to a central hub, and each of the pole members comprises pole sections hinged to permit downward folding and upward unfolding until they are fully extended. Corner support strut members are pivotally mounted to the legs, to be rotatable upwardly to engage and support the pole members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2003
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 6575656
    Abstract: A pull pin assembly includes: a first pole having a first hole; a second pole having a second hole, and sliding in the first pole; a main body having a central hollow containing the first pole; a pull pin body extending radially from the central hollow, and having a space extending into the central hollow; a pull pin, having a circumferential stop, disposed in the space to move from a first position extending into the central hollow through the first hole to a second position outside the central hollow; a pull pin plug fit into the space and having a hollow containing the pull pin; and a biasing member biasing the pull pin toward the second position to lock the first and second poles; wherein the biasing member is disposed to bias the pull pin between the circumferential stop and the pull pin plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Caravan Canopy International, Inc.
    Inventor: Dong Tack Suh
  • Publication number: 20030074845
    Abstract: A portable decontamination system includes a preassembled shelter, convertible between a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration, and a fluid delivery system integral with the shelter. In the stowed configuration the shelter encloses a negligible volume. In the deployed configuration the shelter comprises a plurality of side walls, a plurality of end walls, and a roof. The walls and the roof define a central space. The fluid delivery system is configured to convey decontamination fluid into the shelter and to distribute decontamination fluid throughout at least a portion of the central space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Chad Sample, Richard A. Esser
  • Publication number: 20030037812
    Abstract: A personnel decontamination and containment system is disclosed. This system includes a plurality of components positionable on a selected location for establishment of a multi-station decontamination and containment facility to decontaminate personnel and to contain contaminants collected during the decontamination process. The components can include a plurality of collapsible frame and roof assemblies, wall and roof covers, a weapons clearing assembly, a weapons storage locker, a hanging bar, a signage assembly, collapsible containment hamper assemblies, a covered dispensing assembly, a shuffle box, a multi-wipe dispensing assembly, and a transportable containment enclosure. The enclosure is shaped and sized to removably retain the system's components for transportation or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventors: Ricky William Stewart, Lee Walker Brillhart
  • Publication number: 20030029490
    Abstract: A collapsible frame for use in erecting tents, canopies and the like at outdoor venues includes a plurality of telescopic legs for providing vertical structural support, and a plurality of top corner joints each fixedly mounted upon a top end of a corresponding telescopic leg. A leg slider joint is adjustably mounted upon each telescopic leg for sliding along that telescopic leg. A truss pair of link members is mounted to a pair of top corner joints and to a corresponding pair of leg slider joints mounted on adjacent pairs of telescopic legs for providing a scissors connector. Finally, a plurality of canopy support arms each including a flexible connector, and each fixedly connected to a top corner joint and a corresponding leg slider joint, is employed for raising and lowering the collapsible frame as a stable unitary structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventors: Walter L. Price, Roy Justin Price
  • Publication number: 20030024563
    Abstract: An improved tent frame includes post sets located at four ends. Every two neighboring post sets engage respectively with a first linkage rod set and a second linkage rod set. The first linkage rod set of one post set and the second linkage rod set of a neighboring post set are pivotally engaged with each other through a first driven rod set and a second driven rod set which in turn are pivotally engaged with each other through toggle joints in a cross and staggered manner. There is a center pole located in the center of the tent frame engaging with four passive bar sets. Each of the passive bar sets attaches to the juncture of the first and second driven rod set. The first and second linkage rod sets, the first and second driven rod sets, and the passive bar sets are pivotally engaged with one another through toggle joints, and are movable by the post sets for extending or folding the tent frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Lausan Chung-Hsin Liu
  • Publication number: 20030019516
    Abstract: The collapsible shelter includes a truss and canopy framework that permits a flexible, collapsible canopy to be moved between a raised position and a lowered position. The collapsible shelter includes at least three legs supporting flexible poles removably mounted to the tops of the legs and forming the framework of the canopy. X-shaped truss pairs of link members are connected to each of the legs on each side of the shelter between adjacent legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 6502597
    Abstract: The lightweight erectable canopy shelters include a plurality of legs connected together by an extendible perimeter assembly of link members. In one embodiment, the roof structure is formed by a pole members pivotally mounted to the upper ends of the legs so as to extend across the shelter, and movable between a lowered position and a raised, upwardly arching position. The pole members are pivotally coupled to a central hub, and each of the pole members comprises pole sections hinged to permit downward folding and upward unfolding until they are fully extended. Corner support strut members are pivotally mounted to the legs, to be rotatable upwardly to engage and support the pole members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: LaSalle Business Credit, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 6470902
    Abstract: The quickly erectable canopy shelters include a plurality of legs connected together by an extendible perimeter assembly of link members. The roof structure is formed by a pole members pivotally mounted to the upper ends of the legs so as to extend across the shelter, and movable between a lowered position and a raised, upwardly arching position. The pole members are pivotally coupled to a central hub, and each of the pole members is formed of pole sections hinged to permit downward folding and upward unfolding until they are fully extended. Corner support strut members are pivotally mounted to the extendible perimeter assembly of link members adjacent to the legs, to support the pole members. The outer ends of the pole members are pivotally connected to the upper ends of the legs by pivoting link members that pivot between a lowered position and a raised position extending above the legs when the shelter is extended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: United California Bank
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Publication number: 20020134417
    Abstract: A side rail assembly including a side rail having two ends, and a fixture. The fixture is configured to be fixed at one end of the side rail, and defines a central hollow dimensioned to fit snugly around one of the plurality of uprights. The fixture further has a socket for receiving one end of the side rail, and hinged member. The hinged member defines one wall portion of the central hollow. The fixture is slidable around the upright when the hinged member is in an open position and fixture is fixed around the upright when the hinged member is in a closed position. A wedge portion of the hinged member defines a portion of the central hollow. A slot, dimensioned to receive the wedge portion of the hinged member when the hinged member is in the closed position, is also provided on the fixture. Lastly, a locking member is provided which is disposed to lock the hinged member in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventor: Dong Tack Suh
  • Patent number: 6439251
    Abstract: The collapsible shelter has a canopy that can be raised above the upper level of the leg assembly in an extended configuration. A perimeter truss linkage assembly connected to the leg assembly, and two or more central truss pairs of link members are provided, with each of the central truss pairs connected to the inner ends of one of the perimeter truss pairs on a side. At least one vertically oriented central support members for supporting the canopy above the upper level of the leg assembly is provided, and preferably three central support members are provided, including at least one vertically oriented inner central support member, and at least two peripheral central support members. The central support members comprise upper and lower telescoping sections, with the upper telescoping section having an upper end for supporting the canopy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 6431193
    Abstract: The collapsible shelter includes a truss and canopy framework that provides a flexible, collapsible canopy that is capable of flexing and moving, in whole or in part, between a raised position and lower positions having a reduced profile from the raised position. The collapsible shelter includes at least three legs supporting flexible framework mounted on the tops of the legs and forming the framework of the canopy. Truss pairs of link members are connected to each of the legs on each side of the shelter between adjacent legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Publication number: 20020074032
    Abstract: A frame assembly for folding tents is disclosed. The tent frame assembly has a working rod 20. The working rod 20 has a housing tube 21 having one or more first vertical guide slits 21′. A lower stationary support 22 has first regularly spaced multiple external support projections 22′ and is fixed to the bottom of the housing tube 21. An externally threaded rotating rod 24 is rotatably inserted into the interiors of the housing tube 21 and the stationary support 22. A first support collar 29 has second regularly spaced multiple external support projections 29′ and one or more inner projections. The first support collar 29 is movably positioned around the housing tube 21. Multiple posts 30 individually have an upper post 31. The upper post 31 is provided with a support cap 33 having third multiple external support projections on the top of the upper post 31 and is provided with a second support collar 35 having fourth multiple external support projections around the upper housing tube 21.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Jong-Wha Park, Jae-Il Tae
  • Publication number: 20020059948
    Abstract: The lightweight erectable canopy shelters include a plurality of legs connected together by an extendible perimeter assembly of link members. In one embodiment, the roof structure is formed by a pole members pivotally mounted to the upper ends of the legs so as to extend across the shelter, and movable between a lowered position and a raised, upwardly arching position. The pole members are pivotally coupled to a central hub, and each of the pole members comprises pole sections hinged to permit downward folding and upward unfolding until they are fully extended. Comer support strut members are pivotally mounted to the legs, to be rotatable upwardly to engage and support the pole members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Publication date: May 23, 2002
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 6363956
    Abstract: The erectable, collapsible shelter has a canopy with at least three sides and three corners, a leg assembly, and a perimeter truss linkage assembly having a plurality of perimeter truss pairs of link members connected to the leg assembly. The legs preferably have telescoping upper and lower sections with lower section for engagement with ground, and a slider member slidably mounted to the upper section of each of the legs. A canopy peak support assembly is provided that is movable between a raised position and a lowered position, with the canopy peak support assembly supporting the canopy above the top of the leg assembly in the raised position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Publication number: 20010029973
    Abstract: The erectable, collapsible shelter has a canopy with at least three sides and three corners, a leg assembly, and a perimeter truss linkage assembly having a plurality of perimeter truss pairs of link members connected to the leg assembly. The legs preferably have telescoping upper and lower sections with lower section for engagement with ground, and a slider member slidably mounted to the upper section of each of the legs. A canopy peak support assembly is provided that is movable between a raised position and a lowered position, with the canopy peak support assembly supporting the canopy above the top of the leg assembly in the raised position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Publication date: October 18, 2001
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Publication number: 20010025648
    Abstract: The collapsible shelter includes a truss and canopy framework that permits a flexible, collapsible canopy to be moved between a raised position and a lowered position. The collapsible shelter includes at least three legs supporting flexible poles removably mounted to the tops of the legs and forming the framework of the canopy. X shaped truss pairs of link members are connected to each of the legs on each side of the shelter between adjacent legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Publication date: October 4, 2001
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Publication number: 20010015218
    Abstract: The collapsible shelter has a canopy that can be raised above the upper level of the leg assembly in an extended configuration. A perimeter truss linkage assembly connected to the leg assembly, and two or more central truss pairs of link members are provided, with each of the central truss pairs connected to the inner ends of one of the perimeter truss pairs on a side. At least one vertically oriented central support members for supporting the canopy above the upper level of the leg assembly is provided, and preferably three central support members are provided, including at least one vertically oriented inner central support member, and at least two peripheral central support members. The central support members comprise upper and lower telescoping sections, with the upper telescoping section having an upper end for supporting the canopy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2001
    Publication date: August 23, 2001
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 6257260
    Abstract: A retractable truck canvas is provided for use with a truck having a cab and a bed defined by a bottom with a peripheral side wall coupled to a periphery of the bottom and extending upwardly therefrom for forming an interior space and an upper peripheral edge. Also included is a retractable frame assembly having a plurality of inverted U-shaped members each including a horizontally oriented upper portion and a pair of a vertically oriented side portions. Each vertically oriented side portion has a lower end that is slidably coupled to a side extent of the upper peripheral edge of the bed of the truck. Next provided is a canvas mounted on the inverted U-shaped members of the frame assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventor: Joseph A. Phillips
  • Patent number: 6244011
    Abstract: A display framework collapsing from an inverted V-shaped display framework to a compact configuration includes rods, hubs, and a fastening mechanism. Each rod pivotally joins to another rod by a scissors-type connection intermediate the rod ends. In addition, the end portion of each rod pivotally joins to a hub, where each hub may receive a plurality of rods. As configured, each rod enjoys pivotal movement in relation to the hub along a single axis of revolution. The rods rotate about this single axis of revolution from the collapsed compact configuration, where the rods are substantially parallel to one another, to the erect inverted V-shaped configuration, where the rods radiate outwardly from one another and the display framework includes a front face, a rear face, and a top. In this erect configuration, the display framework provides display surfaces on both the front and rear faces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Assignee: TVI Corporation
    Inventor: Richard A. Esser
  • Patent number: 6240940
    Abstract: The collapsible shelter includes a truss and a canopy framework that provides a flexible, collapsible canopy that is capable of flexing and moving, in whole or in part, between a raised position and lower positions having a reduced profile from the raised position. The collapsible shelter includes at least three legs supporting a flexible framework mounted to the tops of the legs and forming the framework of the canopy. Truss pairs of link members are connected to each of the legs on each side of the shelter between adjacent legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 6230729
    Abstract: The erectable, collapsible shelter has a canopy with at least three sides and three corners, a leg assembly, and a perimeter truss linkage assembly having a plurality of perimeter truss pairs of link members connected to the leg assembly. The legs preferably have telescoping upper and lower sections with lower section for engagement with ground, and a slider member slidably mounted to the upper section of each of the legs. A canopy peak support assembly is provided that is movable between a raised position and a lowered position, with the canopy peak support assembly supporting the canopy above the top of the leg assembly in the raised position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 6230727
    Abstract: A collapsible canopy which may be used to supply shelter from sun and rain for outdoor activities is provided and includes a post, a slide bracket slideably received on the post and a scissor assembly connected to the post and the bracket, respectively, and being formed by a plurality of scissor units connected in end-to-end relation. A plurality of pairs of upper and lower connecting members, each pair being pivotally connected with cover support members and strutting members, are pivotally connected to the ends of the cross members of the scissor units. Each strutting member is pivotally connected at one end thereof to the middle portion of its respective cover support member. A reeling device is attached to the post and has a cable fixedly attached to the slide bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Inventor: Fengchun Chen
  • Patent number: 6223482
    Abstract: A portable, easily composable supporting skeleton which serves as a supporting structure of buildings composable in situ. The skeleton comprises a pipe-like spacer. Two dismountable node plates can be fixed to the spacer by way of clamping assemblies. Each node plate includes an eye having a through-hole. A joint assembly which comprises a crosswise tie-piece can be interconnected pivotably to the through-hole of the eye of one of the node plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Herman Zohar
  • Patent number: 6206020
    Abstract: An expandable framework is used with a flexible covering to provide a portable shelter. The framework includes a plurality of upright support members, adjacent ones of which are interconnected by an edge scissor assembly. Each edge scissor assembly includes a plurality of scissor arms, and at least two of the scissor arms of each edge scissor assembly is formed by at least two articulating sections that move between a folded state when the framework is collapsed and an aligned state when the framework is expanded. The ends of the scissor assemblies are pivotally mounted to an upper and a lower fixed mount on the respective support member. As a result of the articulation, the mounts do not need to slide on the support members but rather can remain fixed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: James P. Lynch
  • Patent number: 6192910
    Abstract: The collapsible shelter has a canopy that can be raised above the upper level of the leg assembly in an extended configuration. A perimeter truss linkage assembly connected to the leg assembly, and two or more central truss pairs of link members are provided, with each of the central truss pairs connected to the inner ends of one of the perimeter truss pairs on a side. At least one vertically oriented central support members for supporting the canopy above the upper level of the leg assembly is provided, and preferably three central support members are provided, including at least one vertically oriented inner central support member, and at least two peripheral central support members. The central support members comprise upper and lower telescoping sections, with the upper telescoping section having an upper end for supporting the canopy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 6152157
    Abstract: A one-touch assembling collapsible tent frame is disclosed. In the tent frame, the pole ribs are quickly coupled to the tent frame through a one-touch motion. The tent frame is stably supported on the ground since the interval between the lower portions of side poles is wider than that of the upper portions when fully stretching the frame. The tent frame has a slider locking means capable of allowing a slider to be easily and safely locked to or released from a side pole. A tension adjusting means is provided at the center pole for selectively adjusting the spring force of a center pole spring at the outside of the center pole. The center pole thus tightly and stably stretches and sustains the roof of a canvas or other material of the tent and improves the appearance of the tent even when pitching the tent in the wind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: Jung-Woo Jang
  • Patent number: 6148835
    Abstract: A temporary housing frame is provided including a plurality of supporting columns. A first link member formed from equal length rod member connects two adjacent supporting columns. A second link member connects between the other supporting columns and is composed of second rod members having respectively different lengths which are crossed and combined rotatably with each other so that at least one side has an ascending structure if the second link member is unfolded. A slider is provided for connecting both ends of the first and second link members to the supporting column as well as a slider fixing unit for stopping the slider from descending by its gravitational weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Seung Do Rhee
  • Patent number: 6112757
    Abstract: A leg assembly for a canopy includes upright leg members, tubular sleeves sleeved slidably and respectively on the leg members, and connecting units extending between the leg members. Each of the connecting units includes at least two linking units and a pivot unit. Each of the linking units includes a first linking rod and a second linking rod. The first linking rod includes a lower segment, an upper segment and an intermediate segment that is formed with a slot. The slot and the upper and lower segments of the first linking rod are disposed on a common vertical plane. The lower segment has a lower end mounted pivotally on an adjacent tubular sleeve. The second linking rod has an upper end mounted pivotally on the upper end of an adjacent leg member, a lower end, and an intermediate portion extending through the slot of the first linking rod, and is pivoted to the intermediate segment about a horizontal pivot axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Shin Yen Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chuen-Jong Tseng