Abstract: An inflatable light concentrating mirror (10) comprising a first transparent sheet (1) and a second reflective sheet (2), wherein the first sheet and second sheet are connected or sealed to each other, whereby a void is provided there-between, the void being adapted to receive a gas so as to inflate the light concentrating mirror, characterized in that the mirror further comprises tensioning means (14) adapted to produce a defined longitudinal tension (11) in at least the second sheet (2) such that wrinkles or creases therein are significantly reduced. The tensioning means comprises one or more tensioning devices (14) adapted to be attached to at least one mirror end or one free end of the second sheet, the tensioning device is configured to provide a pulling force (11) on the second sheet so as to provide the longitudinal tension.

Abstract: A cooling tower with a self-supported shell, and a cooling apparatus residing inside the shell. The shell includes a base section, a cap section and an annular wall residing between the base section and the cap section, the annular wall including a plurality of geometric bodies that are joined to one another and giving the shell a geodesic configuration.

Abstract: The quickly erectable dome shelter includes an extendible perimeter truss assembly with link members connected between adjacent legs, a central truss assembly of link members, and a roof framework, including pairs of curved upper and lower peak truss members, that is movable between a lowered, collapsed configuration and a raised, upwardly arching position. The shelter also includes telescoping peak pole members coupled to the central truss assembly of link members and the roof framework, and may also include telescoping peak truss brace members connected between a peak truss member and a link member of the perimeter assembly of link members.

Abstract: A portable, insulated shelter consists of flexible inner and outer layers, lightweight fabric panels located therebetween, and connected to each other, a suitable support frame, and a system, such as a HVAC unit and a suitable connector, for actively controlling the interior environment of the shelter. The shelter may be used to protect and provide livable conditions in harsh, remote locations. Methods of selectively installing and removing the fabric panels are also provided, along with methods of setting up and disassembling the shelter.

Abstract: The utility model discloses a tent frame, comprising two groups of supporting frame rods, wherein two groups of supporting frame rods are arranged side by side, and two supporting frame rods are expanded to form a V shape; wherein each supporting frame rod comprises two upright rods and top rods which are movably connected to top ends of the upright rods respectively, the two top rods are connected by a one-way connecting piece which has an angle limit and is folded downward, and the upright rods and the top rods are connected by a one-way connecting piece which has an angle limit and is folded upward. The lower end of each upright rod is connected to a bottom pivoting seat, each bottom pivoting seat is provided with two pivoting ports for connecting to the upright rods, and two groups of supporting frame rods are connected between two bottom pivoting seats. The utility model is simple in structure, can be folded conveniently and fast into a small volume, and is convenient to use.

Abstract: The quickly erectable dome shelter includes an extendible perimeter truss assembly with link members connected between adjacent legs, a central truss assembly of link members, and a roof framework, including pairs of curved upper and lower peak truss members, that is movable between a lowered, collapsed configuration and a raised, upwardly arching position. The shelter also includes telescoping peak pole members coupled to the central truss assembly of link members and the roof framework, and may also include telescoping peak truss brace members connected between a peak truss member and a link member of the perimeter assembly of link members.

Abstract: A foldable tent and connector devices for retaining a pair of pivotally connected tent poles. The tent comprises a pair of arched foldable frame members pivotally interconnected by way of a coupling member. The connector device comprises male and female components lockably pivotally coupled to one another to permit positioning of the poles such that the poles are axially aligned in an aligned configuration and such that the poles are pivoted 180 degrees substantially parallel and adjacent to each other in a folded configuration. The male component includes an axially extending first guiding member and a first locking member formed on the inner projection, and the female component includes a second guiding member and a second locking member. A release button is provided for ready set-up and/or folding of the tent. The first and second locking members secure the poles in alignment.

Abstract: An insulating cover is adapted for sealing an attic access panel. The insulating cover includes a substantially rectangular fabric layer and at least one rod for raising the fabric layer above the attic access panel. A cavity is defined by the fabric layer and is adapted to contain a volume of stationary air. A seal is formed around a perimeter of the fabric layer. The seal includes multiple fiber strands of material that are adapted to conform to a shape of a floor surface. The fiber strands are adapted to seal gaps formed where the cover meets the floor surface.

Abstract: A portable shelter including a base, a collapsible support member that is projectable substantially diagonally upward and rearward from the portion of the base, a collapsible base support member that is projectable first diagonally downward to a bend and then forward from the portion of the base, and another collapsible support member or a spreader bar that is attachable to an end portion of the collapsible base support member, wherein the collapsible support member, the another collapsible support member or the spreader bar, and the collapsible base support member comprise a frame.

Abstract: The quickly erectable dome shelter includes an extendible perimeter truss assembly with link members connected between adjacent legs, a central truss assembly of link members, and a roof framework, including pairs of curved upper and lower peak truss members, that is movable between a lowered, collapsed configuration and a raised, upwardly arching position. The shelter also includes telescoping peak pole members coupled to the central truss assembly of link members and the roof framework, and may also include telescoping peak truss brace members connected between a peak truss member and a link member of the perimeter assembly of link members.

Abstract: A portable shelter is provided for sheltering materials or human occupants at a remote location. The shelter includes, among other things, a flexible cover and a supporting frame. In operation, hinged members that are part of the frame are used to support a first portion and then a second portion of the shelter. Before the frame is raised up, the people who are constructing it can easily reach the top parts of the shelter without a stepladder or the like. By avoiding the need for a stepladder, the overall size and weight of the assembled components that have to be transported to the remote location can be reduced, and the shelter can be constructed more quickly and easily. Hinges, purlin connections, and corner closure systems for the shelter are also disclosed.

Abstract: A hunting blind is made of lightweight material allowing the hunting blind to be collapsed and folded or rolled into a compact configuration. The compact configuration allows the easy storage and transportation of the hunting blind. The hunting blind may easily be carried by one person to any desired location and temporarily set up. In this manner, the hunter can place the blind anywhere, rather than building a blind of more permanent material, such as wood, but then being restricted to the one location where the blind is built. Cords attached to two sides of the blind create tension in the blind, causing flexible rods at the top of the side to bend into an arcuate shape. The rods then create an arched roof, providing increased head room in the blind and preventing accumulation of debris and rain water on the roof.

Abstract: The quickly erectable dome shelter includes an extendible perimeter truss assembly with link members connected between adjacent legs, a central truss assembly of link members, and a roof framework, including pairs of curved upper and lower peak truss members, that is movable between a lowered, collapsed configuration and a raised, upwardly arching position. The shelter also includes telescoping peak pole members coupled to the central truss assembly of link members and the roof framework, and may also include telescoping peak truss brace members connected between a peak truss member and a link member of the perimeter assembly of link members.

Abstract: The secure modular shelter apparatus can be used to shelter those at bus stops, on campuses, using ATM's, waiting for trains, making calls, smoking, and for a host of other uses. Importantly, the apparatus is self-contained and can be placed as chosen, by a forklift for example, and either connected to existing power as an alternative energy source or used as is while providing its own power. Security may be guaranteed by entry only allowed by card or other secure personal identification means known in the art. Radiant assisted heating and cooling are provided. Information readout is provided by a lighted panel that may also feature scrolling schedule lights. A panic button and receiver/transmitter are also provided so that emergency communication with professionals is possible when needed. Audio and auxiliary lighting are provided for those with sight and hearing hardships. Automatic interior climate controls provide for thermostatically controlled comfort.

Abstract: A frame structure comprising a plurality of leg members, a plurality of top-corner fittings, a plurality of slide fittings and a plurality of flexible-pole members. Each leg member comprises a first end and a second end. A top-corner fitting is attached to the first end of each leg member. A slide fitting is coupled to each leg member and is adjustably movable along a length of the leg member between the first end and the second end of the leg member. Each flexible-pole member corresponds to a leg member, and each flexible-pole member comprises a first end and a second end. The first end of each flexible-pole member is coupled to a slide fitting, and a second end of each flexible-pole member is coupled to a central hub member. Each flexible-pole member forms an arching shape when the frame structure is in an erect, unfolded position.

Abstract: A quick folding structure for a post unit of a tent frame includes upper, middle and lower posts, an upper connector, and a lower connector. The upper connector is disposed between the upper and middle posts and includes a first upper connecting portion and a second upper connecting portion. The lower connector is disposed between the middle and lower posts and includes a first lower connecting portion and a second lower connecting portion. A wire rope has a first end secured to the first upper connecting portion and a second end connected to a pin. A spring and the pin are disposed in a ladder-shaped trough of the first lower connecting portion. Two ends of the spring engage with the ladder-shaped trough and a first end of the pin, respectively. A second end of the pin faces an engaging notch of the second lower connecting portion.

Abstract: A batting or ball practice cage has one or more frame members with a net attached over the frame. Frame members may be assembled having springs or elbows at the corner. A pitching machine may be aligned with the cage at one end.

Abstract: A support system for tents and other shelters. The support system includes base support members that are in the shape of an arch. These base support members are secured in a desired configuration by an upper support member that is in the shape of a circle or other geometrical shape. A roof support may be added as well. The size and configuration of the shelter may be easily changed by adding or deleting the number of base support members.

Abstract: A portable confinement device for confining a person upon a mattress is provided. The device includes a frame and a flexible enclosure. The enclosure is supported by and sits upon the frame to stabilize the device from tipping over. A mattress may be received into the interior space of the enclosure. The enclosure includes an opening for allowing a person to enter or exit the interior space of the enclosure. All openings of the enclosure are designed to be unfastened only from outside of the enclosure.

Abstract: A portable sign including three legs movable between deployed and collapsed positions and a flexible covering bearing text, graphics or both includes a biasing mechanism urging the legs toward the deployed position. A support within the biasing mechanism secures three springs with the coils facing outward, one extension from each spring embedded in an upper support member and another extension movable within a plane tangential to a periphery of a lower support member and received by a hollow portion of one of the legs.

Abstract: The present invention provides a foldable frame structure, which comprises a limit portion, a canopy portion and a frame body. The limit portion encloses an area with a predetermined figure. The canopy portion is connected with the limit portion. The frame body is connected with the canopy portion for lifting the canopy portion from the limit portion. The frame body further comprises a plurality of cambered areas, a plurality of first overlapping ends, a plurality of second overlapping ends and a plurality of contacting ends. The plurality of contacting ends press against the limit portion respectively. The plurality of first overlapping ends are aligned along an extended direction. Each of the cambered areas is simultaneously connected with another cambered area at the first overlapping end and connected with yet another cambered area at the second overlapping end.

Abstract: A tent shelter of the type that is erected by at least one arch pole and has multiple fabric walls that intersect to form substantially vertical corners when the shelter is erected. At each corner a strut-and-guy line support structure is provided for supporting and tensioning the fabric walls. Each strut structure includes two strut legs, each leg being integrated with a respective wall of a particular corner. The bottom ends of the strut legs are spread apart in the erected state of the shelter but are interconnected by a flexible strap. The top ends of each set of legs converge to form an inverted V shape. A guy line arrangement tensions each of the corners. The tent body can further be strengthened against severe weather by additional arch poles removably secured to the fabric body in an X configuration crossing the center arch and passing over the corners.

Abstract: The quickly erectable dome shelter includes an extendible perimeter truss assembly with link members connected between adjacent legs, a central truss assembly of link members, and a roof framework, including pairs of curved upper and lower peak truss members, that is movable between a lowered, collapsed configuration and a raised, upwardly arching position. The shelter also includes telescoping peak pole members coupled to the central truss assembly of link members and the roof framework, and may also include telescoping peak truss brace members connected between a peak truss member and a link member of the perimeter assembly of link members.

Abstract: An auxiliary modeling structure for playhouse comprises a frame body of playhouse, at least one auxiliary modeling unit, and at least one connecting module. The frame body has a bottom surface of a predetermined area and a cover enclosing the bottom surface. Each auxiliary modeling unit has an external surface which defines an attachable surface of a predetermined area. Each connecting module further includes a first connecting part and a second connecting part. The second connecting part is connectable with the first connecting part in a detachable manner; wherein one of the first and second connecting parts is furnished on the frame body, while the other one is furnished on the auxiliary modeling unit. By using the second connecting part to connect the first connecting part, the auxiliary modeling unit can be connected to the predetermined location of the frame body so as to make the playhouse shaped like a three-dimensional animal, fruit, daily utensil, transportation, or etc.

Abstract: A compact, temporary shelter that includes at least two vertical frame members aligned transversely over a base frame. Each frame member includes two opposite straight lower sections, two curved eave sections, two optional straight roof sections and a curved, central peak section. Adjacent frame members are interconnected by a plurality of purlins. The shelter includes an inner liner disposed over the inside surfaces of the frame members. The inner liner creates wall air spaces between two adjacent frame members and an upper attic and a lower living space that are partially isolated. When attached to an HVAC unit, air from the living space and flows and circulates into the wall air spaces between the frame members and into the attic. From the attic, air travels through a vent opening formed on an end cover to the outside environment. Located inside the shelter is a flexible air sock that connects at one end to the output port on the HVAC unit to evenly distribute the air into the living space.

Abstract: A lightweight, freestanding tent type shelter using a single removable arch pole tensioning the roof canopy between ground-level platform poles that form a perpendicular base for the arch pole. The platform poles are already-carried or found pole type objects such as trekking poles, sticks, skis, paddles and the like already at hand or easily located at a campsite, and the lower side edges of the canopy are provided with connectors for securing the canopy to the platform poles. The canopy has an embedded roof strut crossing the arch pole to add headroom and transfer arch tension to the front and rear ends of the shelter.

Abstract: A portable shade. An illustrative embodiment of the portable shade includes a canopy; a plurality of generally elongated, curved, spaced-apart tent poles carried by the canopy; and a plurality of anchor units receiving the plurality of tent poles, respectively. Each of the anchor units comprises an anchor plate, a striker plate pivotally carried by the anchor plate and a pole receptacle pivotally carried by the striker plate and receiving a corresponding one of the tent poles.

Abstract: The quickly erectable dome shelter includes an extendible perimeter truss assembly with link members connected between adjacent legs, a central truss assembly of link members, and a roof framework, including pairs of curved upper and lower peak truss members, that is movable between a lowered, collapsed configuration and a raised, upwardly arching position. The shelter also includes telescoping peak pole members coupled to the central truss assembly of link members and the roof framework, and may also include telescoping peak truss brace members connected between a peak truss member and a link member of the perimeter assembly of link members.

Abstract: Collapsible structure are provided having a first base panel and a second panel, each having a foldable frame member that has a folded and an unfolded orientation, and a material partially covering the frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation, with the material assuming the unfolded orientation of its associated frame member. The second panel is flexed so that the first and second panels define an interior space, with the second panel having opposing first and second end edges that are coupled to the outer periphery of the first panel. The second panel can have two or more supporting frame members to allow the collapsible structures to be provided in different configurations and sizes. In addition, the first base panel can be replaced by a fabric or similar piece of material that is coupled to the first and second end edges of the second panel. The second panels can be coupled within, or outside, the outer periphery of the first base panel or fabric.

Abstract: The vehicle-mounted awning is a quick setup framework that supports a weatherproof fabric canopy, and is configured for use to the rear of a vehicle. A multi-sectioned bumper bar attaches to the hitch receiver of a vehicle. Opposing ends of the bumper bar have vertical extension pieces, each extending vertically and having a slightly arcuate free end for support of an arcuate multi-sectioned upper side panel frame on either side of the bumper bar. Multi-sectioned lower side panel frames are pivotally connected to opposing ends of the bumper bar. Upper and lower side panel frames are removably connected at their distal ends to provide cantilevered support. Additional multi-sectioned framework extends rearward protective coverage. A flexible water-resistant fabric is wrapped over the support framework to provide a covered canopy region. The framework of the device comprises a plurality of collapsible elements for storage in a small bag.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide structures. For example, in one embodiment comprises a single support pole and a fabric covering. The single support pole comprises first and second hollow end members, each hollow end member comprising a first end having a fitting configured to engage with a fastener, and a second end configured to engage with an interior member, a plurality of hollow interior members each having two ends, and an elastic member having first and second ends, wherein the elastic member extends through the interior of each of the plurality of hollow interior members. The fabric covering comprises at least two fasteners, wherein the fabric covering is configured to be coupled to the support pole such that the fabric shell forms at least one wall and a roof for the structure, and wherein the fabric shell is configured to be coupled to the ground.

Abstract: An internal support structure for a tent having a shell is disclosed. The internal support structure comprises at least one internal support structure configured to provide structural support to the shell, the internal support structure having a pair of gussets each having a member extending from the gussets. The members are configured to engage the shell and provide structural support to the shell. The internal support structure is disposed adjacent to the shell without occupying space in the middle portion of an internal space defined by the shell.

Abstract: A nominally floorless hikers' shelter having a raised, tensioned waterproof canopy supported off the ground by pole supports at the front and rear, in which the canopy has a catenary curved ridgeline tensioned between a higher vertical front support and a lower, outwardly-angled rear arch support. The shelter preferably has a hanging insect netting perimeter, including front and rear door panels and sidewalls, and floor-ready attachment structure for an optional floor to be attached to the support structure in the sleeping area defined by the netting without placing stress on the netting. In a first form the vertical front support is a straight pole; in a second form the vertical front support is a vertical arch. A multiple guyline/single-stake structure for guying out a tensioned shelter edge is also disclosed.

Abstract: A internal support structure for a tent having a shell is disclosed. The internal support structure comprises at least one internal support structure configured to provide structural support to the shell, the internal support structure having a pair of gussets each having a member extending from the gussets. The members are configured to engage the shell and provide structural support to the shell. The internal support structure is disposed adjacent to the shell without occupying space in the middle portion of an internal space defined by the shell.

Abstract: The invention is a collapsible structure comprising a plurality of panel elements, each having a coilable frame element and flexible material attached to the frame element. The panel elements are joined to define an enclosure having a roof portion and a bottom perimeter. The bottom perimeter rests on a supporting surface. The structure has at least one roof support rod having a first end and a second end. The first end of the at least one roof support rod is attached to a first location on the bottom perimeter, and the second end of the at least one roof support rod is attached to a second location on the bottom perimeter. The at least one roof support rod is in supporting contact with the roof portion of the enclosure.

Abstract: The present invention provides a tent pole assembly for shoring up, which comprises a bottom pipe made of iron, a top pipe made of fiberglass reinforced plastic, and a connecting portion for connecting said bottom pipe and said top pipe. Said connecting portion is provided with a insertion portion and a protruding ring disposed along with exterior surface thereof. When said insertion portion inserts into one end of said bottom pipe, said protruding ring shores up said bottom pipe.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to infant activity centers, and more particularly to a portable infant playground.

Abstract: The lawn chair screen and cover is an enclosure system for lawn or folding chairs to protect the occupant from flying insects. The lawn chair screen and cover is made of fabric mesh and supported by a frame structure that may connect to the chair by rope, hook and loop fasteners or clamps. The fabric mesh extends around the chair, thus allowing the user full visibility and air flow through the lawn chair screen and cover. The sloped front of the invention provides a door closed by a zipper. An opening is ideal for allowing a fishing rod to extend through, thus allowing the user to comfortably fish while being shielded from flying insects such as mosquitoes, flies, gnats and the like. The use of the lawn chair screen and cover allows outdoor enthusiasts the ability to sit and relax in a chair without being annoyed or bitten by flying insects.

Abstract: A shelter structure is disclosed having a substantially dome-shaped frame comprising a plurality of flexible resilient poles maintained under tension in substantially arcuate shape. The poles are arranged in intersecting relationship and form a plurality of pole crossings. Opposite ends of the poles terminate in a common plane such as the ground or a base. The pole arrangement creates a plurality of adjacent four-sided openings having pole crossings as vertices and sections of poles as sides. A plurality of tension harnesses interconnect diagonal vertices of adjacent openings, thereby providing strength and rigidity to the structure. The frame defines an interior volume and a membrane or covering is connected to the frame to substantially shelter the interior volume.

Abstract: A tent has a framework having at least two flexible strips bent with an intersection at central points of the strips as a top of the tent. A flexible ring is provided outside the flexible strips and adjacent to the top of the tent. A cloth is sheathed on the framework. The tent has a broad top space without a central pole, which is convenient to use in hunting or as a business site.

Abstract: An improved inflatable tent includes a plurality of inflatable hollow rounded units (1), each tent unit 1 including an outer sheet (4) and an inner sheet (5) connected to each other at their respective ends, a side sheet (6) connecting the outer sheet (4) and the inner sheet (5) along their opposed sides, the side sheet (6) constituting a connecting portion (9), and a floor sheet (8) integrally connected to the lower end of the inner sheet (5). A pair of outer and inner water-impervious slide fasteners (10) are mounted between each pair of adjacent tent units (1) along the outside and insider thereof for joining the pair of adjacent tent units (1) of the tent.

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.

Abstract: The invention discloses an indoor tent encompassing the space in a room designed to change the atmosphere of a child's room or play room having preprinted characters and the ability whereby users can create interchangeable themes. The room-tent has a zippered access panel functioning as a door that functions from the interior and the exterior. A window is provided to allow air and sunlight to enter the structure and has attached curtains. An opening is also provided for either a viewing port or access port and can also be provided with curtains. A cargo net is attached to the ceiling portion of the interior of the tent. Objects such as clothes, books, magazines, towels and other goods are stored away and easily access. Hook and loop attachable picture frames are also provided. The frames are designed so that the pictures can be interchangeable with the design of the tent. The picture frames are fixedly attached to the tent wall by means of hook and loop fasteners.

Abstract: A large temporary shelter designed to act as a communication, maintenance, and warehouse facility in all types of climate and terrain. The shelter is engineered for durability, portability, repetitive assembly and disassembly. The shelter includes a plurality of lightweight structural arched frame supports that are easy to assemble and connect to a lightweight, rectangular-shaped base frame temporarily attached to the ground. The shelter also includes a durable outer cover and an inner liner that extends over the outside and inside surfaces of the arched frame supports. The outer cover and inner linings are spaced apart to create duct spaces between the arched frame supports for heating air conditioning. A central attic space is created between the outer cover and the inner linings which creates a large central air space for greater insulation. Formed on one end of the shelter are at least one personnel door and two double-hinged vehicle doors.

Abstract: A canopy tent with an automatic umbrella-type collapsible frame is disclosed. The frame allows a user to easily, simply and quickly pitch or close the tent, in addition to simplifying its construction. In the collapsible frame (12) of the tent (10), a rib holder (14) rotatably holds the collapsible ribs (24) at its upper end while allowing the ribs to be stretchable in a radial direction when pitching the tent. A stopper (20) is mounted to the lower end of the rib holder (14), while a rope connector (22) is integrally formed at the lower end of the rib holder (14) and is used for holding a tension rope extending from the center of the ceiling part of the tent's canopy. A spreader holder (16) is movably fitted over the shank part of the rib holder (14) such that the spreader holder is movable upward and downward along the shank part. The spreader holder (16) rotatably holds the collapsible spreaders (28) while allowing the spreaders to be stretchable in a radial direction when pitching the tent.

Abstract: An apparatus, useful as a hunting blind, includes a base, a seat operably mounted on the base, and a spring-biased camouflaged hood movably supported over the seat. A latch holds the hood down until a hunter sits on the seat, releasing the latch, but the hunter's weight then holds the hood down against the spring. The spring automatically moves the hood from a closed hiding position toward an open position when a hunter stands up, as the hunter removes his weight from the seat. The base is adapted with radially-extending feet for stability.

Abstract: A collapsible, portable shelter has a quarter-spherical arcuate shape with an open face. A lightweight frame and covering allow for quick set-up and take-down. The shelter is suitable for protection from the sun and other elements, and also provides a degree of privacy to its occupants.

Abstract: A shelter structure is disclosed having a substantially dome-shaped frame comprising a plurality of flexible resilient poles maintained under tension in substantially arcuate shape. The poles are arranged in intersecting relationship and form a plurality of pole crossings. Opposite ends of the poles terminate in a common plane such as the ground or a base. The pole arrangement creates a plurality of adjacent four-sided openings having pole crossings as vertices and sections of poles as sides. A plurality of tension harnesses interconnect diagonal vertices of adjacent openings, thereby providing strength and rigidity to the structure. The frame defines an interior volume and a membrane or covering is connected to the frame to substantially shelter the interior volume.

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.

Abstract: A decorative structure is provided that is suspended within a space and includes a flexible panel maintained in a flexed configuration. The decorative structure includes a cable that supports the flexible panel and that is connected to a biasing member. The biasing member cooperates with a portion of the flexible panel to maintain the panel in a flexed configuration. A method of configuring a decorative structure with a flexed panel is also provided.