Abstract: A lightweight modular shelter, and method for assembling a shelter. The shelter includes first and second panels and first and second panel connectors. The panel connectors have a panel edge channel operatively connected to sides of the first and second panels, and have a connector plug and a connector socket. The connector plug of the first panel connector is inserted into the connector socket of the second panel connector, such that the first panel and the second panel are operatively connected. The shelter may also include a bottom track, where the first panel, the second panel, the first panel connector, and the second panel connector are mated to the bottom track. Methods include attaching the panels and connectors, along with corner connectors, to the bottom track to form a freestanding structure. Roof panels and connectors and gable panels and connectors may be attached thereto.

Abstract: A modular platform assembly includes a plurality of pivot connectors. Each pivot connector having a first connecting part that includes a first mounting member and a first engaging portion. Each pivot connector having a second connecting part that includes a second mounting member and a second engaging portion for pivoting engagement with the first engaging portion of the first connecting part. The first connecting part and the second connecting part cooperate to define a bore that extends through the first connecting part and the second connecting part of each pivot connector along a pivot axis of each pivot connector. A support rod extends through the bore of each pivot connector from the plurality of pivot connectors.

Abstract: A modular storm water infiltration apparatus for directing water into an adjacent soil column. The apparatus includes a plurality of infiltration chambers each having a bottom panel and a peripheral wall that define an interior for storing water. The peripheral wall of each infiltration chamber has at least one infiltration aperture formed therethrough for communicating water laterally into the soil column. The bottom panel of each infiltration chamber has at least one drain aperture formed therethrough for communicating water downwardly out of the infiltration chamber. The infiltration chambers are configured to be stacked vertically with respect to one another.

Abstract: A pivot connector has a first connecting part and a second connecting part. The first connecting part has a male pivot member and a first mounting member that is connected to the male pivot member. The second connecting part has a female pivot member and a second mounting member that is connected to the female pivot member. The first connecting part is connectable to the second connecting part such that a first engagement surface of the male pivot member is in engagement with a second engagement surface of the female pivot member. Each tab of a plurality tabs of the male pivot member is receivable in a respective slot of a plurality arcuate slots of the female pivot member such that the first connecting part is pivotable with respect to the second connecting part over a limited range of motion.

Abstract: A platform element that is connectable to a secondary structure using a clip that is adapted to be installed in a storage position or a use position with respect to the platform element. The platform element includes a substantially planar panel and at least one upstanding wall that extends generally downward from the panel and is adapted to space the panel from an external support surface. The clip is adapted to connect the upstanding wall to the secondary structure when the clip is in the use position. A receptacle is formed on an underside of the panel. The receptacle is adapted to engage the clip to maintain the clip in a fixed position with respect to the panel when the clip is in the storage position.

Abstract: A plant irrigation apparatus for providing a fluid to one or more plants includes a plurality of platforms that are disposed in an array. Each platform has a support surface that is disposed at a platform elevation. A fluid reservoir for containing the fluid is defined at least partially in between adjacent platforms of the plurality of platforms. At least one fluid-regulating structure is configured to maintain a maximum elevation for the fluid, wherein the maximum elevation for the fluid is lower than the platform elevation. A capillary mat is supported by the plurality of platforms. At least a portion of the capillary mat is disposed within the fluid reservoir below the maximum elevation of the fluid.

Abstract: A stackable platform assembly has an improved coupler for interconnecting a plurality of stackable platforms. The coupler has projections that are appropriately sized and spaced to facilitate frictional engagement of the coupler with platforms having different dimensions.

Abstract: A plant irrigation apparatus for providing a fluid to one or more plants includes a plurality of platforms that are disposed in an array. Each platform has a support surface that is disposed at a platform elevation. A fluid reservoir for containing the fluid is defined at least partially in between adjacent platforms of the plurality of platforms. At least one fluid-regulating structure is configured to maintain a maximum elevation for the fluid, wherein the maximum elevation for the fluid is lower than the platform elevation. A capillary mat is supported by the plurality of platforms. At least a portion of the capillary mat is disposed within the fluid reservoir below the maximum elevation of the fluid.

Abstract: The invention is an improved coupler for interconnecting a plurality of stackable platforms, the coupler having projections appropriately sized and spaced to facilitate frictional engagement of the coupler with platforms having different dimensions.