Abstract: Quickly erectable, quickly collapsible, self supporting portable structures (100) that are self expandable with little or no effort by the user, which in their fully expanded upstanding configuration are self supporting. The fully expanded upstanding structure can be quickly collapsed into a stack of side members (145) and then coiled into a pack (160) with little effort by the user. The structures can be used as tents, shelters, pavilions and automobile carports. In general the portable structures have a set of at least three side members (102) each having a flexible frame (106), a side panel (108), a pocket (110) joined to the panel by stitching (112). The frame causes the side members to be self expandable. Side members are hinged together by stitching (130). A floor member (104) sewn to the bottom (124) of each side member holds the structure in the upstanding position.

Abstract: A portable structure that, without disassembly or separation of its basic parts, can be rapidly transformed between its fully erected configuration and its fully collapsed configuration by one individual unaided by another person. The structure, in its collapsed configuration, can be easily carried by one individual. In its expanded configuration the structure is instantly stable when placed on the ground. In one embodiment the structure serves as a light weight beach cabana that can be easily carried by a child. The basic portable structure does not require separation and reassembly of its components at any time before, during or after transformation from the collapsed or expanded configuration.

Abstract: Disclosed is a portable structure, a principal utility for which is a tent or the like. The support for the structure typically comprises a continuous loop of a flexible coilable resilient material such as flat spring steel stock. The support is secured to the fabric of the structure at a plurality of points and is preferably continuously held thereto in an elongate pocket. In use, the support is restrained by and supports the fabric and assumes a complex shape dictated by its size and shape of the fabric. Most commonly, the support and the fabric bounded thereby, in use, assumes a generally saddle-shaped configuration. The coilable frame allows the structure to be readily collapsed and virtually self erecting.