PROTECTIVE ROOFING SHIELD AND METHOD OF USE

Abstract

The present invention relates in general to the protection of central air conditioning systems during roof demolition and replacement, and more specifically, to a protective roofing shield for an outdoor air conditioning unit and method of use. One aspect of the protective roofing shield includes a framework and canopy that partially encloses the outdoor air conditioning unit to guard against falling debris while not obstructing air flow to the outdoor air conditioning unit to prevent damage to the unit. The protective roofing shield may be adjustable in height and length to be compatible with different sizes, manufacturers and locations of outdoor air conditioning units. The protective roofing shield and method of use is designed to be easily assembled, disassembled, and conveniently transported from one roofing job site to another by a single user to improve efficiency for a roofing contractor.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 29/772,710 filed Mar. 3, 2021 which is a Continuation in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/029,536 filed Sep. 23, 2020, herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates in general to the protection of central air conditioning systems during roof demolition and replacement. More specifically, the purpose of the invention is to provide a protective roofing shield for an outdoor air conditioning unit, and optionally flowers, trees, shrubs or landscaping, from falling debris that commonly occurs during roof replacement. The purpose of the invention is to also provide a protective roofing shield for an outdoor air conditioning unit and method of use that is easy to set up with a single person, transportable and does not obstruct air flow to the outdoor air conditioning unit.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Central air conditioner systems are used to cool and maintain a desired indoor temperature at a residence or business during warmer weather. Central air conditioner systems typically comprise an indoor air conditioning unit located inside a building to be cooled and an outdoor air conditioning unit located outside the building. These units are connected by plumbing, electrical wiring, and ductwork, which also flows throughout the building where the central air conditioner unit is utilized. Generally speaking, the indoor air conditioning unit functions to extract heat from its surroundings, wherein this heat is expelled outside of the building through the outdoor air conditioning unit.

The outdoor air conditioning unit (“OACU”) in particular comprises a compressor, a condenser, a grill, piping, valves, and a fan all enclosed within a housing. The fan operates in cooperation with the compressor to assist in heat removal. The OACU is typically located near a building it serves to maximize the efficiency of the central air conditioning system. Constant exposure of the OACU to direct sunlight and harsh environmental conditions (e.g., rain, hail, snow, dust, leaves, grass, etc.) may impede the efficiency of the central air conditioner system and reduce the overall working lifespan of the OACU. Thus, for these reasons the OACU is often placed immediately adjacent to the building it serves and under the eaves of the roof to help provide protection against the sun and outside elements.

This location causes significant problems for roofing contractors. Roof replacement typically involves tearing-off old, worn out shingles from the roof and replacing them with a layer of new shingles. After removal of the old shingles from the roof during demolition, they are often tossed to the ground to be cleaned up later and disposed. Falling shingles and other debris can cause significant damage to the OACU, including flowers, trees, shrubs and landscaping, which are easily damaged from falling objects.

For these reasons, roofing contractors may cover the OACU with a tarp, plywood, or couch cushion in an attempt to protect the OACU during demolition. Such make-shift coverings often fail to provide the requisite level of protection needed to safe-guard the OACU and may instead cause further damage to the OACU by blocking air flow to the unit.

Repairing and/or replacing a damaged OACU, including flowers, trees, shrubs and landscaping, results in a significant and unexpected cost for the roofing contractor. Moreover, roof replacement typically occurs during the summer months when the central air conditioner system is most needed. The central air conditioner system must therefore remain operational during roof replacement. If the OACU is damaged during roofing demolition and requires immediate repairs because of hot weather, this compounds the expense to the roofing contractor for having to pay for emergency air conditioner services. In such instances, the reputation of the roofing contractor also suffers as inconvenienced customers become frustrated with the perceived lack of care taken to protect their personal property.

Thus, a desire remains to provide an effective protective roofing shield for an OACU, and optionally flowers, trees, shrubs and landscaping, during roof replacement. A desire also remains to provide a protective roofing shield and method of use that allows the central air conditioner system to remain operational during roof replacement without obstructing air flow to the OACU. A desire further remains to provide a protective roofing shield and method of use that may be easily set up, taken down and transported from job site to job site by a single person. A desire also remains to provide a protective roofing shield that may be adjustable in height or length to account for varying sizes of OACUs or uneven terrain. A desire still further remains to provide a protective roofing shield that includes advertising space for the roofing contractor so that potential customers may take note of the roofing contractor's due care taken to protect their client's personal property and to promote a job well done.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Therefore, it is a principal object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure to overcome the aforementioned deficiencies in the art and provide protection to a central air conditioning system during roof replacement.

Another object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a freestanding protective roofing shield for an OACU, and optionally flowers, trees, shrubs or landscaping, from falling debris that commonly occurs during roof replacement.

Yet another object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a protective roofing shield and method of use that allows the central air conditioner system to remain operational during roof replacement without obstructing air flow to the OACU.

A further object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a protective roofing shield and method of use that may be easily assembled, disassembled, and conveniently transported from one roofing job site to another roofing job site by a single person to improve efficiency for a roofing contractor.

A still further object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a protective roofing shield that may be adjustable in height or length to account for varying sizes of OACUs.

Another object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a protective roofing shield with legs that are individually adjustable in height to allow the protective shield to be utilized on uneven terrain.

Yet another object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a protective roofing shield that includes advertising space for the roofing contractor.

A further object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a protective roofing shield and method that may be used with all types, sizes, models and manufacturers of OACUs.

A still further object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a protective roofing shield that is inexpensive, value-priced and thus affordable to roofing contractors.

Another object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a protective roofing shield that is reusable and comprised of lightweight and durable materials.

These and/or other objects, features, and/or advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The present disclosure is not to be limited to or by these objects, features, and advantages. No single aspect need provide each and every object, feature, or advantage.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a protective roofing shield is provided. The protective roofing shield may comprise a canopy and a framework configured to cover and protect an OACU(s) from falling debris that may occur during roof demolition and replacement. In particular, the canopy of the protective roofing shield may be configured to cover and optionally extend beyond a top portion of the OACU(s) to provide protection from falling debris, including flowers, trees, shrubs and landscaping. The framework may be configured to enclose the OACU(s) on only three sides to protect the unit from falling debris while not obstructing air flow to the OACU(s). The framework may also include advertising space to be utilized by a roofing contractor to promote their services. The framework may comprise a plurality of legs wherein each leg may have a telescoping portion and a locking mechanism. The telescoping portions and locking mechanisms of the plurality of legs may be utilized to increase and adjust the height of the protective roofing shield to fit a variety of types, sizes, models and manufacturers of OACU(s). Each leg of the plurality of legs may also be independently height adjustable so that the protective roofing shield may be utilized on uneven or sloped terrain.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of using the protective roofing shield of the present disclosure is provided. The method may include providing a residence or business that needs roof demolition and replacement, wherein the residence or business has an OACU(s). The method may include transporting a disassembled protective roofing shield in a flat, folded configuration to the job site of the residence or business. The method may further comprise assembling the framework of the protective roofing shield into the deployed configuration. Using the horizontal front panel of the framework, spacing may be adjusted between the first vertical side support and the second vertical side support to fit the framework to the corresponding size of the OACU(s), including flowers, trees, shrubs and landscaping. The height of the protective roofing shield may also be adjusted to fit to the corresponding height of the OACU(s) and to take into account uneven or sloped terrain. The assembled framework in the deployed configuration may then be set in place to enclose the OACU(s) on three sides. The canopy of the protective roofing shield may be removably attached or set on top of the framework to cover and provide protection from falling debris. The method may further include demolition and replacement of the roof, wherein the protective roofing shield protects the OACU(s), and optionally flowers, trees, shrubs or landscaping, from falling debris. After demolition and replacement of the roof, the protective roofing shield may be disassembled into the flat, folded configuration and transported to the next job site to protect another OACU(s) from falling debris during roof demolition and replacement.

Different aspects may meet different objects of the disclosure. Other objectives and advantages of this disclosure will be more apparent in the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the figures. The present disclosure is not to be limited by or to these objects or aspects. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not necessarily restrictive of the present disclosure. The accompanying figures, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate subject matter of the disclosure. Together, the descriptions and the figures serve to explain the principles of the disclosure.

DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

FIGS. 1-9 represent examples of the protective roofing shield of the present disclosure, and a method of using the protective roofing shield.

FIG. 1 is an isometric front-top-left side view of the protective roofing shield in an assembled and deployed configuration.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the protective roofing shield of FIG. 1 in a standard position configured to protect a single OACU.

FIG. 3 is a front view of the protective roofing shield of FIG. 1 in an expanded position configured to protect two adjacent OACUs.

FIG. 4 is an exploded front-top-left side view of the horizontal front panel of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is an exploded rear-top-left side view of the horizontal front panel of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a rear view of the protective roofing shield of FIG. 1 in the standard position.

FIG. 7 is a left-side view of the protective roofing shield of FIG. 1 in the standard position, the right-side view being a mirror image.

FIG. 8 is an isometric front-top-left side view of the protective roofing shield of the present disclosure in a disassembled, flat and folded configuration.

FIG. 9 is an isometric rear-top-left side view of the protective roofing shield of FIG. 8.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring generally to FIGS. 1-7, the present disclosure is directed to a freestanding protective roofing shield in an assembled and deployed configuration (15) for protecting at least one OACU, including flowers, trees, shrubs or landscaping, from falling debris that commonly occurs during roof demolition and replacement.

FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric front-top-left side view of the protective roofing shield (10) of the present disclosure. The protective roofing shield (10) may comprise a canopy (12) and a framework (14). The canopy (12) and the framework (14) of the protective roofing shield (10) are configured to cover and protect an OACU (16) from falling debris that may occur during roof demolition and replacement. The canopy (12) and the framework (14) of the protective roofing shield (10) are also configured to partially enclose the OACU (16) and thus not obstruct air flow to the OACU (16) to prevent further damage to the unit. The canopy (12) and the framework (14) of the protective roofing shield (10) may also be used to cover and protect flowers, trees, shrubs and/or landscaping from falling debris that may occur during roof demolition and replacement. The canopy (12) of the protective roofing shield (10) may be composed of canvas, plastics, rubber, fabric, polyurethane, combinations thereof, or other materials that are also elastic, flexible, foldable, and/or impact resistant. The framework (14) of the protective roofing shield (10) may be composed of high strength plastics, aluminum alloys, metals, steel, or combinations thereof. Both the canopy (12) and framework (14) of the protective roofing shield (10) are composed of materials that are lightweight and durable in nature to provide robust protection to the OACU (16) from falling debris and to withstand harsh outdoor conditions when in use.

Shown in FIG. 1, the canopy (12) of the protective roofing shield (10) may be configured to cover and extend beyond a top portion (18) of the OACU (16) and partially cover a left side (20) and a right side (22) of the OACU (16) to provide optimal protection from falling debris. The canopy (12) may range approximately 4-8 feet in length and approximately 4-6 feet in width. As shown in FIG. 1, the canopy (12) may be formed of a single, flat piece of elastic, flexible, and/or foldable material. There is configured to be sufficient spacing (e.g., approximately 2-4 feet) between the canopy (12) and the top portion (18) of the OACU (16) to not obstruct air flow to the OACU (16). The canopy (12) may simply rest on the top of the framework (14) without being permanently or removably attached. Alternatively, the canopy (12) may be removably attached to the framework (14) via an attachment member (28). It is contemplated by the present disclosure that suitable attachment members (28) may include for example, but are not limited to, screws, fasteners, nuts/bolts, wing nuts, clamps, nails, brackets, pins, hand knob tightening screws, extendable straps, elastic straps, cables, hooks, and combinations thereof. The canopy (12) may also include advertising space (84) to be utilized by the roofing contractor to promote their services.

Further shown in FIG. 1, the framework (14) may comprise a first vertical side support (30) and an opposite, second vertical side support (32). The framework (14) may also include a horizontal front panel (34). The horizontal front panel (34) is configured to be removably attached to the first vertical side support (30) and the second vertical side support (32) to form the framework (14). The horizontal front panel (34) may be removably attached to the first vertical side support (30) and the second vertical side support (32) via an attachment member (28).

Still further shown in FIG. 1, the framework (14) may enclose a front side (24), left side (20) and right side (22) of the OACU (16). In particular, the first vertical side support (30) of the framework (14) may be located adjacent the left side (20) of the OACU (16), whereas there is sufficient spacing (e.g., approximately 2-4 feet) between the first vertical side support (30) and the left side (20) to not obstruct air flow to the OACU (16). The second vertical side support (32) may be located adjacent a right side (22) of the OACU (16), whereas there is also sufficient spacing (e.g., approximately 2-4 feet) between the second vertical side support (32) and right side (22) to not obstruct air flow to the OACU (16). Thus, the first vertical side support (30) and the second vertical side support (32) may be located on opposite sides (20, 22) of the OACU (16). The horizontal front panel (34) may be located adjacent the front side (24) of the OACU (16), whereas there is sufficient spacing (e.g., approximately 2-4 feet) between the horizontal front panel (34) and the front side (24) to not obstruct air flow to the OACU (16). The framework (14) is thus configured to enclose the OACU (16) on only three sides to protect the unit from falling debris while not obstructing air flow to the OACU (16).

FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of a first aspect of the protective roofing shield (10) of the present disclosure in a standard position (11) configured to protect a single OACU or smaller sized flowers, trees, shrubs and landscaping. The horizontal front panel (34) in the standard position (11) may range approximately 4-6 feet in length and approximately 1-3 feet in width. The horizontal front panel (34) may cover all or a portion of the front side (24) of the OACU (16), and optionally extend beyond the front side (24), to provide protection to the OACU (16) from falling debris during roofing demolition.

FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of another aspect of the protective roofing shield (10) of the present disclosure in an expanded position (13) configured to protect a plurality of adjacent OACUs or larger sized flowers, trees, shrubs and landscaping. The horizontal front panel (24) in the expanded position (11) may range approximately 8-10 feet in length and approximately 1-3 feet in width. The horizontal front panel (34) may cover all or a portion of the front sides (24) of the OACUs (16), and optionally extend beyond the front sides (24), to provide protection to the OACUs (16) from falling debris during roofing demolition.

Shown in FIGS. 1-3, the horizontal front panel (34) may comprise a top horizontal column (36), a bottom horizontal column (38), a left vertical column (40), and a right vertical column (42) that together form a general rectangular shape. The horizontal columns (36, 38) and vertical columns (40, 42) of the horizontal front panel (34) may be composed of high strength plastics, aluminum alloys, metals, steel, or combinations thereof that are hollow and tubular in shape. While FIGS. 3, 4 depict a square tubular shape, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that other non-limiting tubular shapes may also be utilized such as circular, oval, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, or octagonal. The horizontal front panel (34) may further incorporate a plurality of gussets (44) to improve stability of the protective roofing shield (10), wherein a gusset may be included at each intersection of the left and right vertical columns (40, 42) to the top and bottom horizontal columns (36, 38), respectively. The gussets (44) may have a planar, triangular configuration in vertical alignment with the horizontal front panel (34). The horizontal front panel (34) may be permanently affixed to or integrally formed with the first and second vertical side supports (30, 32). Alternatively, the horizontal front panel (34) may be removably attached to the first and second vertical side supports (30, 32) using at least one attachment member (28).

FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded front-top-left side view of one aspect of the horizontal front panel (24) of FIGS. 1-3. In particular, the horizontal front panel (24) may comprise a left section (46) and an opposite, right section (48), wherein the left and right sections (46, 48) are each generally U-shaped. The left section (48) may comprise: (a) a top horizontal column (50) having a first end (52) and an opposite second end (54); (b) a bottom horizontal column (56) having a first end (58) and an opposite second end (60); (c) the vertical column (40) fixedly connected perpendicular to the second end (54) of the top horizontal column (50) to form an approximate 90° angle; and (d) the vertical column (40) fixedly connected perpendicular to the second end (60) of the bottom horizontal column (56) to form a second approximate 90° angle.

Shown in FIG. 4, the right section (48) of the horizontal front panel (34) may comprise: (a) a top horizontal column (64) having a first end (66) and an opposite second end (68); (b) a bottom horizontal column (70) having a first end (72) and an opposite second end (74); (c) the vertical column (42) fixedly connected perpendicular to the second end (68) of the top horizontal column (64) to form an approximate 90° angle; and (d) the vertical column (42) fixedly connected perpendicular to the second end (74) of the bottom horizontal column (70) to form a second approximate 90° angle.

It is understand by the present disclosure that the top horizontal column (50) of the left section (46) and the top horizontal column (64) of the right section (48) collectively form the top horizontal column (36) of the horizontal front panel (34). Furthermore, it is understood by the present disclosure that the bottom horizontal column (56) of the left section (46) and the bottom horizontal bottom column (70) of the right section (48) collectively form the bottom horizontal column (38) of the horizontal front panel (34).

Further shown in FIG. 4, the first end (52) of the top horizontal column (50) of the left section (46) is configured to snugly fit and smoothly slide inside the first end (66) of the top horizontal column (64) of the right section (48). Similarly first end (58) of the bottom horizontal column (56) of the left section (46) is configured to snugly fit and smoothly slide inside the first end (72) of the bottom horizontal column (70) of the right section (48).

In an alternative aspect (not shown), the first end (66) of the top horizontal column (64) of the right section (48) may be configured to snugly fit and smoothly slide inside the first end (52) of the top horizontal column (50) of the left section (46). Likewise in this alternative aspect the first end (72) of the bottom horizontal column (70) of the right section (48) may be configured to snugly fit and smoothly slide inside the first end (58) of the bottom horizontal column (56) of the left section (46).

In both aspects (shown and not shown), the overall length of the horizontal front panel (34) may be dynamically adjusted between the standard position (11) and the expanded position (13) (including anywhere in between) by extending the left section (46) from the right section (48), or vice versa. At least one attachment member (28) may be incorporated into the top horizontal columns (50, 64) and/or bottom horizontal columns (56, 70) to removably lock the columns at a desired length and position. In this manner the overall length of the horizontal front panel (34) may fluctuate approximately 4-6 feet and thus be used to adjust spacing between the first vertical side support (30) and the second vertical side support (32) of the framework (14). Such adjustability in spacing permits the protective roofing shield (10) to be utilized with varying sizes of OACUs (16), including all types, sizes, models and manufacturers of OACUs (16), a plurality of adjacent OACUs, or different sizes of flowers, trees, shrubs and landscaping.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded rear-top-right side view of the horizontal front panel (34) of FIG. 5. The vertical columns (62, 76) of both the left and right sections (46, 48) of the horizontal front panel (34) may each include at least one connection bracket (78) configured to removably attach the horizontal front panel (34) to the first vertical side support (30) and the second vertical side support (32) using attachment member (28) to form the framework (14). As a non-limiting example, the connection bracket (78) may comprise a flange permanently affixed to and extending perpendicular from each vertical column (62, 76). The flange may comprise at least one hole for receiving an attachment member (28), such as a pin, for removably attaching the horizontal front panel (34) to the first vertical side support (30) and the second vertical side support (32).

Shown in FIGS. 4-5, the horizontal front panel (34) may comprise advertising space (84) removably or fixedly attached to the top horizontal column (50) and/or the bottom horizontal column (56) of the left section (46). In the alternative aspect (not shown), the advertising space (84) may be removably or fixedly attached to the top horizontal column (64) and/or the bottom horizontal column (70) of the right section (48). Such advertising space (84) may be utilized by a roofing contractor to promote their services so that potential customers may take note of the roofing contractor's due care taken to protect their client's personal property.

While FIGS. 1-5 depict the horizontal front panel (34) as being dynamically adjustable between the standard position (11) and the expanded position (13), it is contemplated by the present disclosure that an alternative aspect (not shown) may comprise the top horizontal column (36), bottom horizontal column (38), left vertical column (40), and right vertical column (42) being permanently affixed or integrally formed together. In this alternative aspect, the horizontal front panel (34) has a fixed length wherein the protective roofing shield (10) is manufactured and sold in either the standard position (11) or the expanded position (13).

FIG. 6 illustrates a rear view of the protective roofing shield (10) of the present disclosure in the standard position (11). In particular, the rear of the protective roofing shield (10) is left open and does not include a horizontal rear panel. It must be noted that a rear side (26) of the OACU (16) typically faces an adjacent building (86) and often includes plumbing, electrical wiring, and ductwork connecting the OACU (16) to an indoor air conditioning unit (not shown) located inside the adjacent building (86). The rear side (26) of the OACU (16) is thus difficult to access. The three-sided configuration of the framework (14)—in addition to permitting sufficient air flow to the OACU (16)—thus conveniently permits a roofing contractor to assemble the protective roofing shield (10) around the easily accessible front side (24), left side (20), and right side (22) of the OACU (16), without having to contend with the difficult to access rear side (26) of the OACU (16) facing the adjacent building (86).

FIG. 7 illustrates a left side view of the protective roofing shield (10) of the present disclosure in the standard position (11), wherein the right side view is a mirror image. In particular, the first and second vertical side supports (30, 32) of the framework (14) may each comprise a front leg (88), a rear leg (90), a top horizontal column (92), and a bottom horizontal column (94) to collectively provide stability to the protective roofing shield (10). The first and second vertical side supports (30, 32) may range approximately 4-6 feet in width and 4-6 feet in height. The first and second vertical side supports (30, 32) of the framework (14) may be fixed in height to improve stability of the protective roofing shield (10). The front legs (88), rear legs (90), top horizontal columns (92), and bottom horizontal columns (94) of the first and second vertical side supports (30, 32) may be composed of high strength plastics, aluminum alloys, metals, steel, or combinations thereof that are hollow and tubular in shape. While FIG. 8 depicts a square tubular shape, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that other non-limiting tubular shapes may also be utilized such as circular, oval, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, or octagonal.

Shown in FIG. 7, the first and second vertical side supports (30, 32) may each comprise a front/top section (96) and a rear/bottom section (98). Each front/top section (96) may comprise: (a) the front leg (88) having a first end (100) and an opposite second end (102); and (b) the top horizontal column (92) having a first end (104) and an opposite second end (106). Each rear/bottom section (98) may comprise: (a) the rear leg (90) having a first end (108) and an opposite second end (110); and (b) the bottom horizontal column (94) having a first end (112) and an opposite second end (114).

Further shown in FIG. 7, the first end (100) of the front leg (88) may include a first support bracket (116) wherein the second end (102) may comprise a hinged connection (134) to the first end (104) of the top horizontal column (92). Similarly, the first end (108) of the rear leg (90) may include a second support bracket (118) wherein the second end (110) may comprise a hinged connection (134) to the first end (112) of the bottom horizontal column (94). The second end (114) of the bottom horizontal column (94) may be removably secured to the first support bracket (116) positioned at the first end (100) of the front leg (88) using attachment member (28). Similarly, the second end (106) of the top horizontal column (92) may be removably secured to the second support bracket (118) positioned at the first end (108) of the rear leg (90) using attachment member (28). In this manner, the front/top section (96) may be removably secured and detachable from the rear/bottom section (98) of the first and second vertical side supports (30, 32), and wherein the hinged connections (134) may be collapsible, for convenient disassembly, storage and transport of the protective roofing shield (10) in a flat, folded configuration (17) as shown in FIGS. 8-9. In an alternative aspect (not shown), the top horizontal column (92) and bottom horizontal column (94) may be permanently affixed to or integrally formed with the front and rear legs (88, 90) of the first or second vertical side supports (30, 32). In a further alternative aspect (not shown), the top horizontal column (92) and bottom horizontal column (94) may be removably attached via attachment members (28) to the plurality of legs (88, 90) for convenient disassembly, storage and transport of the protective roofing shield (10).

Still further shown in FIG. 7, each front leg (88) of both the first and second vertical side supports (30, 32) may include at least one connection bracket (120). The connection bracket (120) may be configured to removably attach the front legs (88) to the connection bracket (78) of the horizontal front panel (34) using attachment member (28). As a non-limiting example, the connection bracket (120) may comprise a flange permanently affixed to and extending perpendicular from each front leg (88). The flange may comprise at least one hole that is configured to align with the at least one hole of the flange of the connection bracket (78) of the horizontal front panel (34). The aligned holes may receive an attachment member (28), such as a pin, for removably attaching the horizontal front panel (34) to the front legs (88) to form the framework (14).

Also shown in FIG. 7, each leg of the front and rear legs (88, 90) may comprise a telescoping portion (126) and a locking mechanism (128). The telescoping portions (126) and locking mechanisms (128) of the front and rear legs (88, 90) may be utilized collectively to increase and adjust the height of the protective roofing shield (10) approximately 2-4 feet and thereafter lock the height in position to fit a variety of types, sizes, models and manufacturers of OACUs (16). Each leg of the front and rear legs (88, 90) may also be independently height adjustable so that the protective roofing shield (10) may be utilized on uneven or sloped terrain.

Shown in FIG. 7, each leg of the front and rear legs (88, 90) may be hollow and tubular in shape wherein the telescoping portion (126) is configured to fit and slide inside each leg. It is contemplated by the present disclosure that the hollow and tubular shape of each leg may be round, square, rectangle, triangular, pentagon, hexagonal, octagonal, or other tubular shapes. The telescoping portion (126) may be approximately 2-4 feet in length and include at least one series of holes (130) traversing through the telescoping portion (126). Each hole of the at least one series of holes (130) may be spaced approximately 2-12 inches apart. The at least one series of holes (130) of the telescoping portion (126) may be configured to align with at least one corresponding hole traversing through each leg. The locking mechanism (128) may be utilized to lock and unlock the telescoping portion (126) in a fixed position inside the leg depending on the desired height of the protective roofing shield (10). In particular, the locking mechanism (128) may traverse through at least one hole of the series of holes (130) of the telescoping portion (126) and at least one corresponding hole in the leg. Suitable locking mechanisms (128) of the present disclosure may include for example, but are not limited to, screws, fasteners, nuts/bolts, wing nuts, clamps, nails, brackets, hand knob tightening screws, and/or pins. By utilizing a different hole of the series of holes (130) to lock the telescoping portion (126) inside each leg of the front and rear legs (88, 90), the height of the protective roofing shield (10) may be adjusted.

Referring generally to FIGS. 8-9, the present disclosure is further directed to the freestanding protective roofing shield (10) in a disassembled, flat, and folded configuration (17) for convenient storage and transport of the protective roofing shield (10) from one roofing job site to another roofing job site by a single person to improve efficiency for a roofing contractor.

FIG. 8 illustrates an isometric front-top-left side view of the protective roofing shield (10) of the present disclosure. In FIG. 8, the canopy (12) has been detached from the framework (14) using attachment member (28). The canopy (12) may be capable of being rolled-up and/or folded inside a duffel bag (not shown) when not in use to assist with ease of storage and transport. The horizontal front panel (34) has also been detached from the first and second vertical side supports (30, 32). Particularly, the horizontal front panel (34) has been detached by removing attachment member (28) from aligned holes of flanges of connection brackets (78, 120). The horizontal front panel (34) has further been slidably compressed into the standard position (11).

FIG. 9, illustrates an isometric rear-top-left side view of the protection roofing shield of FIG. 8. In FIG. 9, each telescoping portion (126) has been retracted inside its respective front and rear legs (88, 90) and locked in position using the locking mechanism (128). Further, each front/top section (96) of the first and second vertical side supports (30, 32) has been detached from the rear/bottom section (98) using attachment member (28). The first end (100) of each front leg (88) has been collapsed upon the second end (106) of each top horizontal column (92) via the hinged connection (134). Similarly, the first end (108) of each rear leg (90) has been collapsed upon the second end (114) of each bottom horizontal column (94) via the hinged connection (134). The collapsed and detached front/top section (96) and rear/bottom section (98) of the first and second vertical side supports (30, 32) may then be placed inside the compressed horizontal front panel (34) for convenient storage and transport. It is contemplated by the present disclosure that the protective roofing shield (10) of FIGS. 8-9 in the disassembled, flat, and folded configuration (17) may be placed inside a container, case or duffel bag (not shown) to further assist with storage and transport.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a method of using the protective roofing shield (10) of FIGS. 1-9 to protect an OACU(s) (16). In particular, the method may comprise providing a residence or business (86) that needs roof demolition and replacement, wherein the residence or business (86) has an OACU(s) (16). The method may include transporting a protective roofing shield (10) of the present disclosure in the disassembled, flat, and folded configuration (17) to the job site of the residence or business (86) that needs roof demolition and replacement. The method may further comprise assembling the framework (14) of the protective roofing shield (10) into the assembled, deployed configuration (15), wherein the horizontal front panel (34) is removably attached to the first vertical side support (30) and the opposite, second vertical side support (32) using the attachment member (28). The method may also include adjusting the overall length of the horizontal front panel (34) between the standard position (11) and the expanded position (13) (including anywhere in between). The at least one attachment member (28) may then be utilized to removably fix the horizontal front panel (34) at a desired length and position, to fit the framework (14) to the corresponding size of the OACU(s) (16), including flowers, trees, shrubs and landscaping. The method may further comprise adjusting the height of the protective roofing shield (10) to fit the corresponding size of the OACU(s) (16), including flowers, trees, shrubs and landscaping. The height of the protective roofing shield (10) may be adjusted using the telescoping portion (126) and locking mechanism (128) of each leg of the front and rear legs (88, 90). If needed, each leg of the front and rear legs (88, 90) may be independently adjusted in height to permit utilization of the protective roofing shield (10) on uneven or sloped terrain.

The assembled framework (14) may then be set in place to enclose the front side (24), left side (20) and right side (22) of the OACU(s) (16). The canopy (12) of the protective roofing shield (10) may be removably attached or set on top of the framework (14) to cover and optionally extend beyond a top portion (18) of the OACU(s) (16) to provide protection from falling debris. The roofing contractor may also utilize the advertising space (84) on the horizontal front panel (34) and the canopy (12) to promote their services.

The method may further include demolition and replacement of the roof, wherein the protective roofing shield (10) protects the OACU(s) (16), and optionally flowers, trees, shrubs or landscaping, from falling debris. After demolition and replacement of the roof, the protective roofing shield (10) may be disassembled into the flat and folded configuration (17). The disassembled protective roofing shield (10) may then be conveniently transported to the next job site to protect another OACU (16) from falling debris during roof demolition and replacement.

The freestanding protective roofing shield (10) and method of use of the present disclosure are universally applicable to OACU(s) (16) of all, makes, models, sizes and manufacturers. Although the disclosure has been described and illustrated with respect to preferred aspects thereof, it is not to be so limited since changes, modifications, and combinations thereof may be made which are within the full intended scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A protective roofing shield, comprising:

a canopy configured to cover an outdoor air conditioner unit;

a framework having three sides, comprising: a) a first vertical side support; b) a second vertical side support; c) the first vertical side support and the second vertical side support configured to be on opposite sides of the outdoor air conditioner unit; and d) a horizontal front panel connecting the first vertical side support and the second vertical side support; e) the framework configured to partially enclose the outdoor air conditioner unit on three sides;

the horizontal front panel comprising: a) a right section comprising a top horizontal column, a bottom horizontal column running parallel to the top horizontal column, and a vertical column fixedly connected perpendicular to the top horizontal column and the bottom horizontal column; b) a left section comprising a top horizontal column, a bottom horizontal column running parallel to the top horizontal column, and a vertical column fixedly connected perpendicular to the top horizontal column and the bottom horizontal column; c) the left section configured to be detachable from the right section; d) the vertical columns of both the left and right sections of the horizontal front panel each comprising at least one connection bracket configured to removably attach the horizontal front panel to the first vertical side support and the second vertical side support using an attachment member to form the framework; e) the top horizontal column of the right section configured to slide inside the top horizontal column of the left section; f) the bottom horizontal column of the right section configured to slide inside the bottom horizontal column of the left section; g) the overall length of the horizontal front panel configured to be adjustable by extending the left section from inside the right section; h) the adjustability of the overall length of the horizontal front panel configured to adjust spacing between the first vertical side support and the second vertical side support of the framework; i) wherein adjustability in spacing between the first vertical side support and the second vertical side support permits the framework to be adjustable in length to partially enclose varying sizes of outside air conditioner units within the three sides of the framework;

the canopy removably attached to the framework using at least one attachment member;

the canopy and the framework of the protective roofing shield configured to protect the outdoor air conditioner unit from falling debris during roof demolition and replacement while not obstructing air flow to the outdoor air conditioner unit.

2. The protective roofing shield of claim 1, wherein the protective roofing shield is freestanding.

3. The protective roofing shield of claim 1, wherein the overall length of the horizontal front panel is adjustable between a standard position to protect a single outdoor air conditioner unit and an expanded position to protect two adjacent outdoor air conditioner units.

4. The protective roofing shield of claim 1, wherein the horizontal front panel further comprises a plurality of gussets to improve stability of the protective roofing shield.

5. The protective roofing shield of claim 1, wherein the horizontal front panel, canopy, or combinations thereof include advertising space.

6. The protective roofing shield of claim 1, wherein the first vertical side support and the second vertical side support of the framework each comprise:

a plurality of legs; and

at least one horizontal column.

7. The protective roofing shield of claim 6, wherein each leg of the plurality of legs is fixed in height.

8. The protective roofing shield of claim 7, wherein each leg of the plurality of legs includes a telescoping portion configured to be adjustable in height to permit the protective roofing shield to be utilized with varying sizes of outside air conditioner units.

9. The protective roofing shield of claim 8, wherein the telescoping portion of each leg of the plurality of legs is independently height adjustable to permit the protective roofing shield to be utilized on uneven or sloped terrain.

10. The protective roofing shield of claim 1, comprising:

a) a deployed configuration configured to protect an outdoor air conditioner unit; and

b) a flat, folded configuration designed for convenient storage and transport.

11. A protective roofing shield, comprising:

a canopy configured to cover an outdoor air conditioner unit;

a framework having three sides, comprising: a) a first vertical side support; b) a second vertical side support; c) a horizontal front panel connecting the first vertical side support and the second vertical side support; d) the framework configured to partially enclose the outdoor air conditioner unit on three sides;

the horizontal front panel comprising: a) a right section; b) a left section; c) the left or right section extendable from the other section to adjust an overall length of the horizontal front panel; d) the adjustability of the overall length of the horizontal front panel configured to adjust spacing between the first vertical side support and the second vertical side support; i) wherein adjustability in spacing between the first vertical side support and the second vertical side support permits the framework to be adjustable in length to partially enclose varying sizes of outside air conditioner units within the three sides of the framework;

the canopy attached to the framework;

the canopy and the framework configured to protect the outdoor air conditioner unit from falling debris during roof demolition and replacement while not obstructing air flow to the outdoor air conditioner unit. 10 15

12. The protective roofing shield of claim 1, wherein the overall length of the horizontal front panel is adjustable between a standard position configured to protect a single outdoor air conditioner unit and an expanded position configured to protect two adjacent outdoor air conditioner units.

13. The protective roofing shield of claim 1, wherein the horizontal front panel, canopy, or combinations thereof include advertising space.

14. The protective roofing shield of claim 1, wherein the first vertical side support and the second vertical side support of the framework each comprise:

a plurality of legs; and

at least one horizontal column.

15. The protective roofing shield of claim 1, wherein each leg of the plurality of legs includes a telescoping portion configured to be adjustable in height to permit the protective roofing shield to be utilized with varying sizes of outside air conditioner units.

16. The protective roofing shield of claim 1, comprising:

a) a deployed configuration configured to protect an outdoor air conditioner unit; and

b) a flat, folded configuration designed for convenient storage and transport.

17. A method of using a protective roofing shield, comprising:

transporting a protective roofing shield in a flat, folded configuration to a first location;

assembling the protective roofing shield from the flat, folded configuration into the deployed configuration, the protective roofing shield comprising: a) a canopy; b) a framework having three sides, comprising: i. a first vertical side support; ii. a second vertical side support; iii. the first vertical side support and the second vertical side support configured to be on opposite sides of the framework; and iv. a horizontal front panel connecting the first vertical side support and the second vertical side support; c) the horizontal front panel comprising: i. a right section; ii. a left section; iii. the left or right section extendable from the other section to adjust an overall length of the horizontal front panel;

adjusting the overall length of the horizontal front panel to adjust spacing between the first vertical side support and the second vertical side support to partially enclose an object within the three sides of the framework and canopy of the protective roofing shield;

protecting an object at the first location using the protective roofing shield;

disassembling the protective roofing shield from the deployed configuration into the flat, folded configuration;

transporting the protective roofing shield to a second location.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising:

adjusting the overall length of the horizontal front panel between a standard position and an expanded configuration;

the standard position configured to protect a single outdoor air conditioner unit; and

the expanded position configured to protect two adjacent outdoor air conditioner units.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein the first vertical side support and the second vertical side support of the framework each comprise:

a plurality of legs; and

at least one horizontal column.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising:

including a telescoping portion with each leg of the plurality of legs; and

adjusting the height of each telescoping portion to permit the protective roofing shield to be utilized with varying sizes of outside air conditioner units.