Abstract: A staircase assembly is installed in a multi-story building, including first and second flights of stairs that are hingably coupled to a landing, and a plurality of vertically-oriented columns coupled to the landing. The staircase assembly is assembled into a first liftable floor plate, and is disposed in a folded arrangement when the liftable floor plate is positioned at an assembly level elevation. The staircase assembly is disposed in an unfolded arrangement when the first liftable floor plate is positioned at a first design level elevation and a second liftable floor plate that is positioned at a second design level elevation below the first liftable floor plate.

Abstract: A load-absorbing device initiates load forces such as cable forces or tensioning forces of sheet-shaped structures into supporting structures (10). At least one bearing element (24, 80) is anchored on supporting structure (10). A tie rod (40) of a load-absorbing part (36, 40) is connected to the bearing element. A connection device (50) for tension members (16; 98) cooperates with the tie bar (40). The connection device (50) has at least one connection wing (66) projecting laterally from the longitudinal axis (A) and forming at least one connection point (69a) offset with respect to the longitudinal axis (A).

Abstract: A garage car cover apparatus attachable to a ceiling of a garage including a flexible fabric car cover configured to drapingly cover a vehicle. A power unit attaches to the ceiling and to a lifting shaft having a plurality of spaced sheaves. Attaching points on the cover each connect to one end of a flexible line. A plurality of ceiling pulleys are each connectable to the ceiling directly above one of the attaching points when the cover is draped over the vehicle, each flexible line connected at one end to one sheave, a mid-portion of each line supported on one pulley. The cover is raised or lowered vertically from, and drapingly onto the vehicle by operation of the power unit. An alternate embodiment utilizes an existing power unit of an overhead garage door opener to facilitate automatic deployment and retraction.

Abstract: A rigging deck module including: a deck body including a flexible deck material bounded by a web-reinforced tensile edge, suspension means spaced about the edge whereby the deck body is tensionable to form a substantially flat deck surface, and a lattice of tensile web members secured to the flexible deck material and the web-reinforced tensile edge; tensile rigging strops adapted to be mounted in tension to a structure in maintained spaced relation to each other, and each having securing points formed thereon; and tensionable connection means located at each suspension means for securing and tensioning the deck body to the respective securing points.

Abstract: Compost cover tie-down systems for securing a compost cover using a perimeter element, struts and lashes are disclosed, wherein the lashes apply force to the struts which thereby apply a force to the perimeter element to aid in securing a compost cover. Configurations of struts for use with compost cover tie-down systems are also disclosed, which include perimeter engagement portions and lash engagement portions. Multiple configurations of the systems, struts, and lashes as well as methods of using the same are also disclosed.

Abstract: A tent includes a tent cloth and a tent frame to support the tent cloth. The tent frame comprises a top module and a plurality of supporting poles which are radially pivoted to the top module. The top module includes a modular main body, a top cap and a quick-pitch assembly. The modular main body includes a plurality of pivot sockets which are integrally formed with the modular main body. Each pivot socket is pivotally connected with a connector. The connector is further connected to the respective supporting pole. The connector has a top engaging portion at a pivot end thereof to mate with the quick-pitch assembly. The top cap is coupled to the modular main body to form a middle space. The quick-pitch assembly is located in the middle space and able to move up and down.

Abstract: A tent frame is disclosed including at least three support legs. The at least three support legs may have a connected end and a free end and may include a collapsible truss with at least two compression members, a hinge situated between the compression members, and a tension member extending from a first point near the free end to a second point near the connected end. The at least three support legs may be joined at their respective connected ends. A tent is also disclosed including a collapsible frame and a shell adapted to cover the frame, the shell having at least one window opening and at least one window curtain covering the at least one window opening, the at least one window curtain being adapted to slidably open and close. A method of setting up a tent is also described.

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.

Abstract: Collapsible portable self-supporting shelter structures having from at least two component quad sections to seven or more component quad sections, which joined end to end form the width of the structure; and, said entire component sections optionally being joined side to side form a desired depth of the portable shelter. The resulting structure is a collapsible self-supporting prefabricated deployable shelter having a clear span interior without supporting columns. Some versions of the collapsible portable self-supporting shelter structure due to its configuration may optionally contain a floating hub which is a top element extending above the structure's standard exterior matrix frame. The floating hub forms a high pitch atop the shelter, which high pitch causes the fabric, which covers the matrix frame, to be maintained in a taut downward-sloping condition over the shelter top surface so no rain or snow collects in the fabric at the top of the shelter.

Abstract: A double-layer cable-strut roof system includes a central structure and an edge structure, a plurality of sets of first diagonal struts and a plurality of sets of second diagonal struts provided between the two structures, each set of first diagonal struts being arranged alternately with one set of second diagonal struts. Or a plurality of sets of diagonal struts are provided between the two structures, each of which including a plurality of first diagonal struts and second diagonal struts joined together node to node, each first diagonal strut being arranged alternately with one second diagonal strut The roof structure may cover the underlying building space in its entirety or, alternatively, may cover a perimeter portion of the building space leaving the center area uncovered, or may be constituted by a plurality of structural units, which is adapted for spanning large areas devised for a wide range of building shapes.

Abstract: Portable shelters, shelter systems, and methods of deployment of such shelters are described. The shelters or housing units may be deployed in emergency housing situations and may be grouped into systems of shelters. One particular embodiment comprises a rigid top frame structure, a rigid bottom frame structure, and one or more collapsible support arms connecting the top frame structure to the bottom frame structure. The frame structures and the collapsible support arm(s) are sized and configured to form a shelter frame when the collapsible support arm(s) are in a fully extended position, and the top frame structure is brought into proximity with the bottom frame structure when the collapsible support arm(s) are in a collapsed position. Methods of rapid deployment of the shelters and systems of shelters are also described.

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 tensile pole tent having improved wind performance, having a polygonal projection in plan view, perimeter catenaries, a flexible canopy continuously attached to the catenaries, corner posts to support the catenaries, a membrane interface or field joint between adjacent membrane modules consisting of, for example, a novel water-shedding keder rail, or a zipper or daisy chain grommets and loops. The membrane interface can be sealed against precipitation by cover flaps that extend upwards from the membrane and come into contact above the interface.

Abstract: A double-layer cable-strut roof system includes a central structure and an edge structure, a plurality of sets of first diagonal struts and a plurality of sets of second diagonal struts provided between the two structures, each set of first diagonal struts being arranged alternately with one set of second diagonal struts. Or a plurality of sets of diagonal struts are provided between the two structures, each of which including a plurality of first diagonal struts and second diagonal struts joined together node to node, each first diagonal strut being arranged alternately with one second diagonal strut The roof structure may cover the underlying building space in its entirety or, alternatively, may cover a perimeter portion of the building space leaving the center area uncovered, or may be constituted by a plurality of structural units, which is adapted for spanning large areas devised for a wide range of building shapes.

Abstract: A wall panel which can be used to provide a lower, more rigid, perimeter wall to an air supported structure. The wall panels may be attached to the earth via a hinged connection to provide for improved ease of raising the air supported structure and to allow for flexing, or may be rigidly attached. The wall panels will generally be modular and interchangeable.

Abstract: A shelter of the type having collapsed and expanded configurations. In one of several example embodiments, the expanded configuration includes a tunnel-shaped portion forming a pair of opposing side walls and a roof section. The roof section has a peak positioned above the side walls and the tunnel-shaped portion may include opposing ends with a first opening at the first end and a second opening at the second end, each opening capable of accommodating an end wall. A first sheet is foldable along at least first and second crease lines to define the walls and roof section, the walls having an upper separation distance between the first and second crease lines when the shelter is expanded. The first sheet is segmented into panels with pairs of adjoining panels forming pleats each having a vertex extending from a crease line to an adjoining footing flap, the walls having a lower separation distance between footing flaps on different walls when the shelter is expanded.

Abstract: The pneumatic structural element according to the invention comprises from one to a number of interconnected elements of the following construction: two hollow bodies (1) with casings (9) made of textile material preferably coated in a gas-tight manner and having end caps (5) are assembled such that they produce a common sectional area (2). The edging of this sectional area (2) is formed by two curved tension/compression elements (3) into which is clamped a web (4) made of a flexible material of high tensile strength. By filling the two hollow bodies (1) with compressed gas, a tensile stress ? is built up in their casings (9) and is transmitted directly or via the tension/compression elements (3) to the web (4) and pretensions said web. This pretensioning greatly increases the bending rigidity of the tension/compression elements (3).

Abstract: A wall panel which can be used to provide a lower, more rigid, perimeter wall to an air supported structure. The wall panels may be attached to the earth via a hinged connection to provide for improved ease of raising the air supported structure and to allow for flexing, or may be rigidly attached. The wall panels will generally be modular and interchangeable.

Abstract: Methods and systems for building a stress ribbon structure over an opening via incremental launching are disclosed. Temporary support structures are constructed adjacent to a permanent support structure. The stress ribbon structure is constructed in a staging area and in sections that are suspended between the temporary support structures. Anchorage panels at each end of a section engage a blister on the temporary and permanent structures. This arrangement allows completed sections to be launched from the temporary support structure onto and along the permanent support structure. Sections are individually constructed and launched and adjacent sections abut along a lateral edge. Adjacent sections are aligned by adjusting tension in integral support cables and their ends pivot or rotate about the blisters via a bearing system with both rotational flexibility and low friction to support sliding in the direction of launching.

Abstract: A shade structure having a suspended mast with a tubular body non-removably secured between at least two suspended mast support segments forming a suspended engagement. The shade structure has at least a first flange plate connecting a first mast transition segment to a first cantilever rafter and a second flange plate connecting a second mast transition segment to a second cantilever rafter. At least one column extension assembly simultaneously supports the cantilever rafters and connects each cantilever rafter to a column. A fabric canopy is disposed over and around the suspended mast and over the suspended mast support segments and cantilever rafters. Means to engage the fabric canopy is used with each cantilever rafter on a second cantilever rafter end and tensioning means secured to at least one of the cantilever rafter or the suspended mast is used for tensioning the fabric canopy.

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.

Abstract: A fast unfolding two-layer temporary flooring structure consisting of preferably rigid plates (1 to 6), made of a suitable material. The plates (1 to 6) are arranged mutually parallel and cascade-linked by an articulated linking element (B) so that between two consecutive plates, the element (B) is linked to an edge of the other plates, and also preferably in a central zone of the other plate, the elements defining hinge lines between parallel planes with longitudinal or transverse axis of the plates.

Abstract: A dome type clear-span roof construction, having an exterior, polygonal arch frame (1), and a pre-tensioned, doubly curved membrane cover (2), which is suspended from the arch frame and is tied down to anchors (9) along its perimeter. Underneath the arch frame, a single, continuous suspension cable (4), anchored to the arch's end supports (8), is alternately taken through a series of upper pulleys (6) secured to the underside of the arch break points, and lower pulleys (5) secured at similar spacing to the membrane's ridge line (3), creating a multiple block-and-tackle suspension mechanism in the full length of the arch. The suspension mechanism converts the random membrane loads into concentrated, identical arch loads. The centerline of the polygonal arch coincides with the constant pressure line of its concentrated loads, which therefore do not cause bending moments in the arch.

Abstract: A cover assembly for a play area, such as a sandbox, comprises a frame disposed over the play area and a covering material attached to the frame. The frame is constructed so as to be convertible between a first configuration in which children can enter and play in a fully enclosed play area and a second configuration in which the play area is shaded, but open to the outside.

Abstract: The invention relates to a shelter module that is easy to set up and take down, and is intended, for example, as emergency accommodation to house persons who have become homeless as the result of natural events (earthquakes, fires, storms, tsunamis) or events of war. The invention furthermore relates to a shelter module that serves as a playhouse, animal housing, military or expedition accommodation, and the like. The shelter module is composed of hollow or textured chamber panels and has excellent inherent stability.

Abstract: A non-planar suspended panel system comprising a metal grid formed of curved main runners and straight cross runners extending between the main runners, a plurality of panels supported on the grid, the panels each having flat major faces with quadrilateral profiles, the edges of a panel being aligned with a pair of main runners and a pair of cross runners, each panel having flanges at its edges extending between its flat face and the runners in a manner that disposes the plane of its flat face generally parallel to chordal lines in the planes of the main runners between the intersections of the associated cross runners and main runners, whereby the panel system extends over a three dimensional surface and the surface is formed of a multitude of facets each formed by one of said panels.

Abstract: Systems and methods for disposing and supporting a solar panel array are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system for supporting a solar panel array includes the use of support columns and cables suspended between the support columns, with the solar panels received by solar panel receivers that are adapted to couple to the cables. The solar panel array may then be used to provide power as well as shelter. Cooling, lighting, security, or other devices may be added to the solar panel array.

Abstract: A greenhouse structure has first and second sections. The second section includes moveable and fixed supports and a flexible material retained therebetween. The first section is adapted to bias the moveable support from an initial position to a final position in which at least a portion of the moveable support is more distant from the fixed support. In the final position, the flexible material is tauter than in the initial position.

Abstract: Methods and systems for building a stress ribbon structure over an opening via incremental launching are disclosed. Temporary support structures are constructed adjacent to a permanent support structure. The stress ribbon structure is constructed in a staging area and in sections that are suspended between the temporary support structures. Anchorage panels at each end of a section engage a blister on the temporary and permanent structures. This arrangement allows completed sections to be launched from the temporary support structure onto and along the permanent support structure. Sections are individually constructed and launched and adjacent sections abut along a lateral edge. Adjacent sections are aligned by adjusting tension in integral support cables and their ends pivot or rotate about the blisters via a bearing system with both rotational flexibility and low friction to support sliding in the direction of launching.

Abstract: A dome type clear-span roof construction, having an exterior, polygonal arch frame (1), and a pre-tensioned, doubly curved membrane cover (2), which is suspended from the arch frame and is tied down to anchors (9) along its perimeter. Underneath the arch frame, a single, continuous suspension cable (4), anchored to the arch's end supports (8), is alternately taken through a series of upper pulleys (6) secured to the underside of the arch break points, and lower pulleys (5) secured at similar spacing to the membrane's ridge line (3), creating a multiple block-and-tackle suspension mechanism in the full length of the arch. The suspension mechanism converts the random membrane loads into concentrated, identical arch loads. The centerline of the polygonal arch coincides with the constant pressure line of its concentrated loads, which therefore do not cause bending moments in the arch.

Abstract: A collapsible self-supporting structure used in combination with an improved articulating hub assembly. The articulating hub assembly is used as a connector among tubular rod elements which together provide a generally tubular frame matrix used to erect a collapsible self-supporting prefabricated deployable structure where a clear span interior without supporting columns is required.

Abstract: An awning includes a plurality of peripheral poles, a plurality of iron screens, and a collapsible supporting frame. A lower top cloth covers a lower top frame of the collapsible supporting frame and is attached in such a way as to define a central opening, and an upper top cloth covers an upper top frame of the collapsible supporting frame. The upper top cloth has an area of projection larger than the area of the central opening of the lower top cloth. The upper umbrella disk and the middle umbrella disk are moveable into position by a positioning fixture.

Abstract: The carrier apparatus used for suspending an object within the periphery of a concrete slab comprises an elongate member and a moisture membrane sheet; the elongate member comprises a first distal end, and a second distal end, the elongate member is oriented such that the second distal end is pointed in a downwardly direction and the first distal end is pointed in an upwardly direction; the moisture membrane sheet is comprised of a flexible material disposed around the elongate member; the moisture membrane sheet comprises a first surface and a second surface; the first surface is facing the first distal end of the elongate member and the second surface is facing the second distal end of the elongate member.

Abstract: According to the present invention there is provided a system of panels which could for instance be used for a suspended ceiling comprising one or more rows (R1, R2, . . . ) of panels (2), where one or more of the panels (2) of a given row can be moved from a first, upper level (a), where the panels are fixed relative to the system to a second, lower level (b), where the panels can be displaced along and underneath panels situated at the first level, thereby providing access through the system of panels to the space above or behind the panels. According to the invention there is furthermore provided panels for such systems, the panels comprising a substantially rigid frame (6, 12), the frame being furthermore provided with means for cooperation with mating means on a suspension and guide system, thereby allowing said movement from one level to the other and vice versa and said displacement.

Abstract: The present invention provides a landfill site covering system. The system comprises a plurality of freely mobile support members (2) with a cable array (20 22, 24) secured to the support members (2) to form a supporting framework. Covering material (26, 28) is attached to the supporting framework; to form an enclosure.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a mobile plant for producing prefab elements for the building industry. The mobile plant comprises a covering canopy structure (A) that can be dismantled, such as a large tent or a hall, assembly tables (1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3) for producing elements in brick material and mortar, an installation (14) for preparing the reinforcing irons for the panel elements of brick and mortar, a concrete mixer plant (3) for supplying the mortar, and/or a plant for generating auxiliary means (steam, electric current, compressed air, etc.) and/or a service container (7) for the personnel and for managing the plant. All these equipment elements are mounted on trailers and/or in containers that can be transported by road or by rail to the building site or the buildings to be erected. The main advantage of the mobile plant is seen in the maximum work rationalisation that yields considerable savings in time and in means.

Abstract: The invention relates generally to a covering system for athletic courses. A movable framework straddles the athletic course and serves as a support for a cover. Inside, lighting and climate may be controlled. Also, possibly as a training aid or to facilitate competitive events, a timing system and/or PA system may be incorporated. Among the possible athletic courses suitable for covering are running courses, in-line skating courses, cycling courses, etc. The invention also includes a method of operating an outdoor exercise course.

Abstract: Systems and methods for disposing and supporting a solar panel array are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system for supporting a solar panel array includes the use of support columns and cables suspended between the support columns, with the solar panels received by solar panel receivers that are adapted to couple to the cables. The solar panel array may then be used to provide power as well as shelter. Cooling, lighting, security, or other devices may be added to the solar panel array.

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: A multi-purpose structure, especially useful as a greenhouse or other plant-protective structure, comprising; (a) a framework comprising a plurality of vertical supports, said vertical supports being arranged in rows that extend the entire width of the structure, wherein each of said rows contains at least two vertical supports having substantially the same height, said framework further comprising a plurality of connecting members that connect the vertical supports in a row to one another at junction points located at the tops of said supports; the framework further comprises a plurality of permanent cross strips extending perpendicularly to said connecting members; (b) at least one flexible sheet adapted to be weaved through said connecting members and extending the entire length of the framework so as to form at least a part of a roof of said framework.

Abstract: Method for manufacturing a tent construction having at least one panel manufactured from suitable cloth, and tent construction manufactured utilizing the method. A basic panel is manufactured from a material of desired properties and is provided with one or more covering panels or waterproof material that form part of the outer wall of the tent construction. The basic panel may consist of relatively narrow edges of durable material or of an entirely or partially closed panel of open, breathing material.

Abstract: A shelter having an internal frame comprised of a roof supported by legs. A canopy covers the roof of the frame to provide protection from the elements. The canopy is taughtly held onto the frame by cords which pass through sleeves in the front and back of the canopy and attach to the corner legs of the frame. To tension the canopy onto the frame, the corner legs are twisted to tension the cords and, in turn, the canopy. Upon tensioning the canopy, the corner legs are locked in the rotated position.

Abstract: A system and method of panelized construction for use in construction of a building module, such as a residential housing addition. A plurality of pre-fabricated panels, such as wall panels, roof panels, floor panels, and ceiling panels may be provided to decrease on-site building time. The panels may comprise one or more covering layers pre-installed on a frame. The panels may also comprise pre-installed insulation or other core materials. The panels may further comprise a pre-installed portion of a house system, such as an electrical system. Additionally, the panels may comprise pre-installed windows, doors, or skylights. The panels may be designed to meet the residential building code requirements of one or more jurisdictions to decrease permitting time and inspection delays. The panels and other materials may be included in a building kit for a building module to be constructed by contractors or do-it-yourselfers.

Abstract: An installation for increasing the daylight yield in a stadium provided with a playing surface, stands, and optionally a covering, includes an essentially vertical light-reflecting body to guide the light incident on the body towards the playing surface in the stadium. Preferably the reflecting body is arranged along the free peripheral edge of the covering of the stadium. In one embodiment the reflecting body includes a multi-layer construction of two corrugated sheets with a light-reflecting foil between them. The installation can increase the light yield in a covered stadium by between 30% and 50%.

Abstract: A system and method of panelized construction for use in construction of a building module, such as a residential housing addition. A plurality of pre-fabricated panels, such as wall panels, roof panels, floor panels, and ceiling panels may be provided to decrease on-site building time. The panels may comprise one or more covering layers pre-installed on a frame. The panels may also comprise pre-installed insulation or other core materials. The panels may further comprise a pre-installed portion of a house system, such as an electrical system. Additionally, the panels may comprise pre-installed windows, doors, or skylights. The panels may be designed to meet the residential building code requirements of one or more jurisdictions to decrease permitting time and inspection delays. The panels and other materials may be included in a building kit for a building module to be constructed by contractors or do-it-yourselfers.

Abstract: An assemblable bungalow has a plurality of telescopic leg members, which are securely positioned on the ground, a plurality of lower frames connected to the upper ends of the telescopic leg members in perpendicular relation, for connecting the respective telescopic leg members, a plurality of supporting frames disposed in the space defined by the lower frames, and crossing each other in longitudinal and transversal directions, a plurality of telescopic poles, which are extended from the upper ends of the leg members, respectively, a plurality of upper frames connected to the upper portions of the poles in perpendicular relation, for connecting the respective poles, a roof pole, designed to be curved to an arch shape upon being connected with both ends to the upper ends of a pair of the poles that face each other in a diagonal direction, a plurality of floor plates connected with each other and disposed in the space defined by the lower frames, and supported by the supporting frames, and a roof cloth disposed

Abstract: A system for operating a retractable roof having at least two moveable roof sections, the system comprising: a first support having a first pulley; a second support positioned opposite to and across from the first support means and having a second pulley; a tie member which passes around the first and second pulleys to form an elongate loop having a crossover point between the supports; wherein the first roof section is supported, in use, by the tie member between the first support and the crossover point and the second roof section is supported, in use, by the tie member between the crossover point and the second support such that, in use, the roof sections move in opposite directions when the tie member is moved.

Abstract: A safety grate (10) is provided for a garden pond by mounting a grate (10) below the anticipated surface of the water in the pond. This reduces the risk of drowning in the pond, predators catching fish in the pond and animals swimming or rolling in the pond, while preserving the aesthetics of the garden pond. The grate (10) may have larger openings in it for plants and fish or for access to equipment in the pond. The openings may be covered with an access hatch to allow brackets, a support stand and/or a shelf to support the grate (10) at the desired depth in the pond.

Abstract: A building includes an inflatable form having an interior surface bounding a chamber. A stabilizing layer of polymeric foam or cementitious material is disposed on the interior surface of the inflatable form. At least one support layer of cementitious material is disposed on the interior surface of the stabilizing layer. Finally, one or more ribs project from the interior surface of the at least one support layer. Each rib includes a core of polymeric foam and a layer of cementitious material disposed over the core.

Abstract: A segmented, articulated pole member structure is constructed of a plurality of pivotally interconnected, pole segments. The pole segments are arranged in an alternating or offsetting fashion such that in their disassembled state they may be folded into a compact bundle for storage. In the assembled state, adjacent pole segments are retained under tension in fixed angular position relative to each other by a pivoting connection and an engagement loop or similar structure. Applications for the pole member structure include the construction of flexible structures such as tents and shelters, and support frames for mounting, supporting, or suspending articles in a desired shape.