Floor Or Base Structure Patents (Class 135/116)
-
Publication number: 20100307550Abstract: In some embodiments, a portable floor may include one or more of the following features: (a) a frame having a top surface and a bottom surface, (b) a pre-cut hole in the floor adapted to allow a ice-fishing auger, (c) a plug to cover the at least one hole, (d) a container which is attachable to the floor, the container having a hinged top lid providing access to the interior of the container and a fishing rod holder, (e) an insulated material located adjacent to the frame, (f) a non-slip material coupled to the top surface, (g) a means for coupling the container to the floor, (h) a container to store live bait, (i) lights protruding from containers, and (j) cup holders.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2009Publication date: December 9, 2010Applicant: MFP, LLCInventors: Murray Silverberg, James M. Conlin
-
Publication number: 20100288321Abstract: A lightweight enclosure is described that has an exterior film surface. The lightweight enclosure comprises a laminate having a porous outer film. The laminate is moisture vapor transmissive and flame resistance (passing CPAI-84), and abrasion resistance on the outer film surface thereby remaining durably liquidproof. The lightweight enclosure may be a single wall tent and is formed from a laminate having sufficient oxygen permeability to sustain life while enclosure openings are closed.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2009Publication date: November 18, 2010Inventor: Matthew J. Dwyer
-
Publication number: 20100275960Abstract: An example method for providing a flexible base structure for a portable shelter includes the steps of forming a continuous loop of a flexible material and attaching a plurality of rib intersections such as grommets at respective locations along the flexible loop. An alternative method for constructing a flexible base structure for a floorless portable shelter includes forming a continuous loop of a flexible material and arranging a plurality of openings at respective locations along the continuous loop. An embodiment of a base structure for supporting the ribs of a portable shelter includes a flexible loop and a plurality of rib intersections arranged along the flexible loop. Each of the plurality of rib intersections forms an opening for receiving a respective end of a rib that supports the portable shelter.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2010Publication date: November 4, 2010Inventor: Morris W. Shumate
-
Publication number: 20100269876Abstract: A portable collapsible blind is provided including positioning members and simulated arborescent structures to break-up the hard geometric shape and lines of the blind. The positioning members can position the simulated arborescent structures to extend beyond at least one of a sidewall, side edge, upper edge, sidewall corner, roof edge, roof corner and roof a preselected distance. The simulated arborescent structure can include a limb and a leafy part suspended by the limb at a location distal from the geometric shape of the blind. A concealment pod also can be provided. The concealment pod can include a base with a plurality of outwardly projecting simulated arborescent structures. The base can include the fastener element that joins with a corresponding fastener element of a joining element. The base and joining element can be pivotally joined so that the simulated arborescent structures can be oriented in a variety of configurations.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2010Publication date: October 28, 2010Applicant: OAK LEAF OUTDOORS, INC.Inventor: Jared Shane Schlipf
-
Publication number: 20100170549Abstract: The invention provides a ground sheet arrangement for enclosures wherein an outer ground sheet is capable of allowing condensate from inner surfaces of the enclosure to drain away from the base of the enclosure, and also provides for alternate means for securing an inner ground sheet within an outer ground sheet of the enclosure.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2008Publication date: July 8, 2010Applicant: BU INNOVATIONS LTD.Inventors: Geoffrey Ian Bell, Franziska Conrad
-
Publication number: 20100126545Abstract: A rapidly deployable military vehicle repair facility has a shelter constructed so that in can be put up with three people and a 12 foot ladder. A special tool is utilized to mount sections of the shelter support poles into place for connection. The ends of the poles are color coded so that can be easily matched for assembly. The shelter front door has an integrated detachable particulate screen portion. When the dual filter/ventilation system is running 24,000 CFM of air is drawn in through the facility and exhausted through the rear exhaust systems (12,000 CFM per system). The integrated particulate screen prevents dirt, dust, and other contaminants from being drawn into the facility and damaging the vehicle finish while eliminating the need to replace disposable air intake filters—the integrated particulate screens also eliminate another potential waste product from the system—dirty, disposable fiberglass filters.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2008Publication date: May 27, 2010Inventors: Todd J. Bullivant, Rand K. Drozdowicz, Thomas B. Schweers, JR.
-
Patent number: 7721749Abstract: A prefabricated shell for forming a shelter (14) has a groundsheet (30) and a cover (32) having a gas impermeable inner layer (24) and at least one outer layer. The outer layers are each formed by a layer of cloth that has been impregnated with a water-settable material, e.g. cement. The shell is steeped in water to wet the cement and then the cover is pneumatically inflated to form a space between the cover and the groundsheet. The shelter is then left until the cement has set and is able to support the cover. The shelter can easily be constructed to provide a durable shelter, especially in emergency areas.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2005Date of Patent: May 25, 2010Assignee: Crawford Brewin Ltd.Inventors: Peter Brewin, William Crawford
-
Patent number: 7637698Abstract: A ground cloth is adapted for use between the ground and a ground engagable floor to protect the floor from contamination by the ground. The ground cloth includes a plurality of drain holes for draining to the ground moisture entering between the ground engagable floor and the ground cloth to minimize the retention of moisture between the ground cloth and the floor.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2004Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Inventor: Paul R. Meernik
-
Patent number: 7543594Abstract: An air supported positively pressurized flexible material shelter for use on a surface comprising a flexible wall and a skirt connected to the wall and surrounding the flexible wall. A source of vacuum being propagated beneath the skirt along the flexible wall, to vacuum the skirt down to the surface to secure the temporary shelter to the surface. The skirt forms a continuous connection with the surface around the entire perimeter of the shelter. An optional flexible seal is provided essentially parallel to a vacuum channel and on an exterior edge of the skirt spaced from the flexible wall.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2006Date of Patent: June 9, 2009Inventor: Edward L. Novak
-
Publication number: 20090071522Abstract: A waterproof bottom corner of a tent structure and a method for manufacturing the same are developed. Extra clad cloths are welded on the inside and outside of the tent bottom cloth. The overlapped bottom corner tent structure is heated and welded. Then, an eyelet is mounted on the end portion, so that the waterproof bottom corner of the tent effectively protects against moisture. Therefore, it is easy and convenient to use the tent outdoors.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2007Publication date: March 19, 2009Inventor: Gi Weon Seo
-
Publication number: 20090065038Abstract: A demountable and reusable canopy is provided comprising a number of vertical supports, located along an area to be covered, each including a footer which mounts an insert tube below the finish grade of the ground and a post having a hollow interior shaped to receive an exposed portion of the insert tube. A beam is secured to the vertical supports by self-tapping screws which extend into screw cases formed in the posts, and adjacent beams mount decking sections to form the completed canopy.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2007Publication date: March 12, 2009Inventors: David Freyman, Lee M. Walker, Celestin Xavier Pierre
-
Publication number: 20080223425Abstract: An example method for providing a flexible base structure for a portable shelter includes the steps of forming a continuous loop of a flexible material and attaching a plurality of rib intersections at respective locations along the flexible loop. An alternative method for constructing a flexible base structure for a floorless portable shelter includes forming a continuous loop of a flexible material and arranging a plurality of openings at respective locations along the continuous loop. An embodiment of a base structure for supporting the ribs of a portable shelter includes a flexible loop and a plurality of rib intersections arranged along the flexible loop. Each of the plurality of rib intersections forms an opening for receiving a respective end of a rib that supports the portable shelter.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2007Publication date: September 18, 2008Inventor: Morris W. Shumate
-
Publication number: 20080142061Abstract: An air supported positively pressurized flexible material shelter for use on a surface comprising a flexible wall and a skirt connected to the wall and surrounding the flexible wall. A source of vacuum being propagated beneath the skirt along the flexible wall, to vacuum the skirt down to the surface to secure the temporary shelter to the surface. The skirt forms a continuous connection with the surface around the entire perimeter of the shelter. An optional flexible seal is provided essentially parallel to a vacuum channel and on an exterior edge of the skirt spaced from the flexible wall.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2006Publication date: June 19, 2008Inventor: Edward L. Novak
-
Patent number: 7363765Abstract: Article of footwear includes a sole, an insole overlying the sole, the insole having in a surface thereof a groove having an inlet and outlet in an edge of the insole, the groove winding substantially throughout the length and width of the insole upper surface. A tube is disposed in the groove and extends throughout the length of the groove and has an inlet portion extending from the groove inlet at the edge of the insole and an outlet portion extending from the groove outlet. An upper fixed to the sole has apertures through which extend the tube inlet and outlet portions.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2005Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventors: Stephen Szczesuil, Michael J. Holthe
-
Patent number: 7335243Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatus and systems for isolating hazardous agents and organisms from their handlers and the public. In particular, the present invention relates to modular negative pressure biological containment chambers.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2003Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Inventors: Jane Homan, Lee H. Thompson
-
Patent number: 7316238Abstract: A tent having a repositionable floor, the floor preferably including a pair of subpanels that mate together and form a water-resistant seam. The subpanels can be repositioned within the interior of the tent or exteriorly of the tent. Additionally, each floor subpanel can be retracted and secured to a wall of the tent so as to create a floorless or partially floorless tent.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2005Date of Patent: January 8, 2008Assignee: Wingroup North America, Inc.Inventor: Bobby G. Sumner
-
Publication number: 20070272289Abstract: The water exclusion system for a tent comprises a liquid proof sheet sized to exceed the base dimensions of a tent; and one or more fasteners for attaching said sheet to the walls of said tent to form a liquid proof tub containing the base and a lower portion of the tent walls.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2006Publication date: November 29, 2007Inventor: Theodore John Cooper
-
Patent number: 7284562Abstract: A method of constructing a water-resistant corner for a tent or other fabric structure, and the corner formed therefrom. A protective panel may be laid over a flooring material sheet, and the sheet and the protective panel are folded into a corner. The formed corner may then be turned inside out, so that the protective panel is located on the outside of the newly-formed corner. The protective panel thereby covers the outermost corner of the flooring, and the seam formed at that corner. An interior waterproof layer, such as a waterproof sealing tape, may be attached on the inside of the inverted corner to act as a further moisture barrier.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2005Date of Patent: October 23, 2007Assignee: The Coleman Company, Inc.Inventors: Howard A. Hardee, Suk Keun Yoo
-
Patent number: 7267135Abstract: A method of constructing a water-resistant corner for a tent or other fabric structure, and the corner formed therefrom. A protective panel may be laid over a flooring material sheet, and the sheet and the protective panel are folded into a corner. The formed corner may then be turned inside out, so that the protective panel is located on the outside of the newly-formed corner. The protective panel thereby covers the outermost corner of the flooring, and the seam formed at that corner. An interior waterproof layer, such as a waterproof sealing tape, may be attached on the inside of the inverted corner to act as a further moisture barrier.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2001Date of Patent: September 11, 2007Assignee: The Coleman Company, Inc.Inventors: Howard A. Hardee, Suk Keun Yoo
-
Patent number: 7263731Abstract: A camping apparatus having a sleeping bag with a length and a width, cushioning means secured to the bottom of the sleeping bag; and sheltering means having a width greater than the length of the sleeping bag and a length greater than the width of the sleeping bag. The sheltering means includes a canopy, supporting means for operably supporting the canopy above the sleeping bag, and storage means for storing the sheltering means on the sleeping bag.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2005Date of Patent: September 4, 2007Inventors: Steven G. Stepanek, Darla J. Stepanek
-
Patent number: 7222635Abstract: A tent (10) having a fabric enclosure (16) which including a number of walls (18), a floor (22) having a floor perimeter (4) and a framework (14) which supports the fabric enclosure (16) and urges it to expand outwardly. The walls (18) meet the floor (22) and are attached together at a joining seam (25) near the floor perimeter (4). The floor (4) is preferably a tub floor (32) which is joined to the walls (18) at the joining seam (25) which is at a distance vertically removed from the ground plane. One or more skirts (34) are attached to the walls (18) at a distance vertically removed from the ground plane. The skirts (34) are attached external to the floor perimeter (4) and overlap a portion of the walls (18) so that the wall portion and floor perimeter (4) is protected from rainfall.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2003Date of Patent: May 29, 2007Assignee: North Pole, Ltd.Inventor: Robert Cantwell
-
Patent number: 7150442Abstract: An ice shelter modular seating system includes a base unit, one or more seat mount units and one or more seat leg units. The base unit is a generally rectangular tub-like member having a front wall and a floor. The floor includes a longitudinally extending and integrally formed track. This track is functionally adapted to receive the lowermost portion of the seat leg units in it, the track being used to restrain the seat leg units from front to back movement relative to the base unit front wall. A seat mount unit is removably attachable to the base unit front wall and is configured to rest upon the seat leg unit. In this fashion, seat mount units can be positioned along the base unit as desired or required in an almost infinite number of positions and combination of positions, with placement of the seat mount units being be made quickly and easily.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2004Date of Patent: December 19, 2006Assignee: Frabill, Inc.Inventor: Ryan J. Kleckner
-
Patent number: 7084083Abstract: The invention is a new heat and fire resistant material. The material is made of a woven silica-based cloth layered in several possible combinations with foil and fiberglass cloth layers. The layers can be arranged in a variety of sequences to minimize the thermal radiation to the inside of the material, but a foil layer must always be the outermost layer to provide protection from radiant heat.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2003Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Assignees: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture, The Governors of the University of AlbertaInventors: Leslie Leah Anderson, Mary Ann Davies, Anthony Clement Petrilli, Mark Y. Ackerman
-
Patent number: 6881506Abstract: The invention is a new heat and fire resistant material and an improved wildland fire shelter and kit. The material is made of a woven silica-based cloth layered in several possible combinations with foil and fiberglass cloth layers. The layers can be arranged in a variety of sequences to minimize the thermal radiation to the inside of the material or shelter. However, a foil layer must always be the outermost layer to provide protection from radiant heat and a layer of foil must be present between the interior of the shelter or material and any layer of adhesive to limit accumulation of gases inside the shelter if the adhesive or other substance should break down when exposed to heat. The silica cloth, aluminum foil, and fiberglass cloth may be laminated or sewn together. The shape of the fire shelter is a half cylinder with ÂĽ sphere at each end. The shelter is contained in an easy-open polyvinyl bag which provides for quick removal and deployment of the fire shelter.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2002Date of Patent: April 19, 2005Assignees: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture, The Governors of the University of AlbertaInventors: Leslie Leah Anderson, Mary Ann Davies, Anthony Clement Petrilli, Mark Y. Ackerman
-
Patent number: 6845781Abstract: A tent with a carpeted floor having a floor constructed of flexible PVC material backing and a fibrous material secured to the upper surface of the backing and extending upwardly from the backing to increase comfortableness by the addition of loft.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2002Date of Patent: January 25, 2005Assignee: Dick's Sporting Goods, Inc.Inventor: Todd A. Brown
-
Patent number: 6843261Abstract: A flexible shelter structure has an elongated flexible main pole having first and second ends terminating in a substantially common plane, such as the ground or a base. The pole typically assumes a substantially arcuate shape under tension. A plurality of spars are connected to the pole in a flexible floating arrangement to form a flexible frame. The spars typically assume a generally arcuate shape under tension but their ends do not terminate in the common plane. A membrane is connected to the flexible frame to tension the main pole and the spars and define a substantially sheltered space.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2001Date of Patent: January 18, 2005Inventor: Robert E. Gillis
-
Patent number: 6823883Abstract: A collapsible, self-supporting portable sun-screen apparatus includes a canopy support and a flexible canopy positioned over a frame of the canopy support. The canopy and canopy support are not affixed so that the canopy can be slid relative to the frame and offset relative to the canopy support to adjust for sun movement. Weights are provided to provide stability to the canopy and keep it in the desired position.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2002Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Inventor: Keith Sears
-
Patent number: 6786010Abstract: An outdoor storage structure for storing equipment and lawn accessories in a portable shed. The outdoor storage structure includes a base assembly including a base floor and anchor members being attached to sides of the base floor for anchoring the base floor to a ground; and also includes a cover member being hingedly attached along a back edge of the base floor and including top, side, front, and back walls; and further includes hinge members being attached to the base floor and to the cover member; and also includes handle members being attached to the cover member for the lifting thereof; and further includes a lock assembly for locking the cover member to the base assembly; and also includes a light-emitting member being disposed upon an underside of the cover member; and further includes an alarm member also being disposed upon the underside of the cover member.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2002Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Inventor: William R. Mc Nabb
-
Publication number: 20040087232Abstract: The invention is a new heat and fire resistant material and an improved wildland fire shelter and kit. The material is made of a woven silica-based cloth layered in several possible combinations with foil and fiberglass cloth layers. The layers can be arranged in a variety of sequences to minimize the thermal radiation to the inside of the material or shelter. However, a foil layer must always be the outermost layer to provide protection from radiant heat and a layer of foil must be present between the interior of the shelter or material and any layer of adhesive to limit accumulation of gases inside the shelter if the adhesive or other substance should break down when exposed to heat. The silica cloth, aluminum foil, and fiberglass cloth may be laminated or sewn together. The shape of the fire shelter is a half cylinder with ¼ sphere at each end. The shelter is contained in an easy-open polyvinyl bag which provides for quick removal and deployment of the fire shelter.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2002Publication date: May 6, 2004Inventors: Leslie Leah Anderson, Mary Ann Davies, Anthony Clement Petrilli, Mark Y. Ackerman
-
Patent number: 6681785Abstract: The present invention relates to a tent, and more particularly, to a waterproof structure of a tent floor corner portion which can obtain a perfect waterproof effect of a tent corner portion by forming a cut hole by cutting away a plurality of corner portions formed by fabric cloth sides and a fabric cloth floor surface of a tent, connecting a tarpaulin corner cloth to the cut hole to be overlapped with each other, attaching overlapped portions by sewing and heat-sealing a plurality of tarpaulin disc members sewn with a webbing tape to the tarpaulin corner cloth, which can manufacture a better-looking tent by differentiating the color of the tarpaulin corner cloth and presenting a variety of peculiar designs, and which can acquire a very economic effect by obtaining a maximum waterproof effect with a minimum amount of an expensive tarpaulin cloth.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2002Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Inventor: Kyong Jai Choi
-
Patent number: 6629388Abstract: The disclosure describes a portable garage with a ballast-containing base. The garage is assembled at a site without physical attachment thereto and disassembled for erection at another site. Each elongated base segment extending along the sidewall of the garage has a cavity therein for receiving ballast which stabilizes the structure. The bases have extensions which interlock and overlie connector portions. Apertures through the connectors have a metal sleeve housing support columns and, upon the sidewall being assembled, these columns are vertically disposed. Between support members a prefabricated roof is attached. The ballast-container is a lightweight, molded plastic construct of high-impact, UV resistant material. The base is equipped with suitable inlet and outlet ports for the addition and removal of ballast.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2002Date of Patent: October 7, 2003Assignee: Handi-Hut Shelters, LLCInventor: Melvin Cohen
-
Publication number: 20030024564Abstract: A flexible shelter structure is disclosed. The flexible shelter structure has an elongated flexible main pole having first and second ends terminating in a substantially common plane, such as the ground or a base. The pole typically assumes a substantially arcuate shape under tension. A plurality of spars are connected to the pole in a flexible floating arrangement to form a flexible frame. The spars typically assume a generally arcuate shape under tension but their ends do not terminate in the common plane. A membrane is connected to the flexible frame to tension the main pole and the spars and define a substantially sheltered space.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2001Publication date: February 6, 2003Inventor: Robert E. Gillis
-
Publication number: 20020195134Abstract: The Palletized Tent Platform lifts the tent off the ground away from elements, such as water. A pallet is one solid piece. Pallets slide together to form the platform. U Shaped Clips hold the pallets together, which allows for easy assembly of platform. The platform can be used with most existing tent designs. The pallets can be constructed in any size to fit almost any tent. Example, a 3′×3′ pallet, can be used to make a 9′×12′ platform. The platform would be constructed using 12 pallets. The top of the pallets form the base on which the bottom of the tent lays. The hoops on the pallet will be tied to the hoops on the tent to hold in on the platform. The same tent hoops which where formally used to stake a tent to the ground.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2001Publication date: December 26, 2002Inventor: Joseph James Fenech
-
Patent number: 6493997Abstract: The disclosure describes a portable garage with a ballast-containing base. The garage is assembled at a site without physical attachment thereto and disassembled for erection at another site. Each elongated base segment extending along the sidewall of the garage has a cavity therein for receiving ballast, which, after erection of the garage, is filled with water, sand or gravel. The weight thereof stabilizes the structure. The bases have extensions which interlock and overlie connector portions. Apertures through the connectors house support members and, upon the sidewall being assembled, these columns are vertically disposed. Between support members a prefabricated roof is attached. The ballast-container is a lightweight, molded plastic construct of high-impact, UV resistant material. The base is equipped with suitable inlet and outlet ports for the addition and removal of ballast.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2000Date of Patent: December 17, 2002Assignee: Handi-Hut Shelters, L.L.C.Inventor: Melvin Cohen
-
Patent number: 6397870Abstract: A portable ice fishing shelter construction including a hull member having a floor provided with exterior sidewalls and a centrally offset enlarged aperture dimensioned to receive the lower torso of an occupant and surrounded by raised interior sidewalls which define an interior well within the hull member, wherein the raised interior sidewalls are provided with a pair of handle members for lifting and carrying the hull member while being surrounded thereby; and, wherein the hull member is further provided with a collapsible cover unit.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2000Date of Patent: June 4, 2002Inventors: James Makedonsky, Peggy L. Makedonsky
-
Publication number: 20020062852Abstract: An outer shell for a portable shelter that has displaceable/connectable characteristics are the major benefits. Ideally, all four of the shell's walls may be displaced. When applied to all four sides, a shelter utilizing this shell would be modular on all four sides. For example, if it were used as an anglers' shelter, it could be connected strategically along a reef or sand bar, around a drop-off, or it might merely be arranged so that the anglers can play a game of cards. A camper may want to displace only one wall and add a screen for greater ventilation. A utility worker may want to connect two units together for space. Also, the utility worker may want to move equipment inside of the shelter; in this case one wall would be displaced. A hunter may want to displace one wall and connect a material that is easily shot through the opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2001Publication date: May 30, 2002Inventors: Brian David Jopp, Bobby D. Jopp
-
Patent number: 6357462Abstract: A portable playpen/mattress for babies is described. The playpen includes a flexible base and a plurality of substantially open walls all consecutively attached to each other. The walls are attachable to the base substantially perpendicular to the base. When the walls are attached to the base, the playpen is in an erected configuration, and when the walls are detached and folded one on top of another, the playpen is a collapsed configuration. The base is attachable to the walls in two configurations. When the corners of the base are curled around the leg portions of the walls, the base is in a rimmed configuration, and when the leg portions are directly attached to an upper surface of the base, the base is in a flat configuration. A reversible roof is selectively attachable to the walls. An outer cover is adapted to enclose the base and the walls in the erected configuration.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2000Date of Patent: March 19, 2002Assignee: Battat, Inc.Inventors: Janejira Laosunthara, Darani Laosonthorn
-
Patent number: 6349732Abstract: A collapsible enclosure that generally comprises a symmetrical pair of base members and a pliable protective cover supported by a plurality of internal frame members pivotally connected on the axis of the hinge points for the base members. By manually rotating the first frame member about its axis, the protective cover and additional frame members unfurl over the base members and surround a vehicle or object in a shell-shaped enclosure. To store or transport the enclosure, the protective cover and frame members collapse in an accordion-like fashion and sandwich between the folded base members.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 1998Date of Patent: February 26, 2002Inventor: Mark T. Cooper
-
Patent number: 6328050Abstract: A self-expanding, foldable, portable structure for temporary shelter. The structure includes two opposing flexible side panels each having a continuous respective border thereabout and a continuous frame member fabricated of a foldable spring material for expanding and maintaining each side panel in a generally flat expanded configuration. Two opposing flexible end panels, a flexible roof panel, and preferably a floor panel are disposed between and connected to the side panels. A tension member is positionable between two opposing aligned sites of opposing frame members for maintaining under pressure the frame members in a spaced relationship from each other. A mat member having a frame fabricated of a foldable spring material can be provided for insertion to provide an inside floor surface between the opposing side panels while simultaneously tensionally distancing the side panels from each other to aid in stabilization of side panel positioning.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2000Date of Patent: December 11, 2001Inventor: Thomas E. McConnell
-
Publication number: 20010035203Abstract: The present invention a collapsible shelter comprises spaced apart first and second upright pleated wall sections disposed substantially parallel to each other, first and second slanted pleated roof sections joined at upper ends to form a saw tooth roof peak, and joined at lower ends to upper ends of said wall section to form saw tooth wall-roof junctions, wherein said pleated wall sections together with said pleated roof sections form a tunnel member which is collapsible by folding said pleated sections onto each other in accordion style.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2001Publication date: November 1, 2001Inventors: Michael D. Clee, Steve Ostrowski
-
Patent number: 6192909Abstract: A lightweight base frame including connectable frame members. The members are advantageously extensible. A thicker central portion of each member advantageously provides sturdiness and stability to the base frame. A cloth is suspended taunt across the frame. Once assembled, the base frame and cloth form the floor of the shelter as well as a cot. Attachable adjustable-height legs with high-traction feet further enable the user to lie comfortably and level above grade on a wide range of ground surfaces, even on rugged or sloping terrain. In a preferred embodiment, built-in leveling bubbles in the end and side frame components help adjust the base frame to level. A shelter primarily in the nature of a tent is then erected up from the base frame.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 1999Date of Patent: February 27, 2001Inventor: Matthew Strausser
-
Patent number: 6148834Abstract: A modular tent platform system for elevating a tent structure from a ground surface to enhance comfort within the tent structure and prevent saturation of the tent structure due to ground moisture, runoff, or precipitation includes substantially planar support panels, support braces, support legs for interlocking adjacent support panels, and attachment assemblies for securing a tent to the platform. In a preferred embodiment, the support legs and adjacent panels are coupled together using channeled connecting members.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 1999Date of Patent: November 21, 2000Inventor: Tally R. Grooms, Sr.
-
Patent number: 6145141Abstract: A portable mosquito net apparatus is formed of a frame, adapted to be sandwiched between a bed mattress and a mattress support surface, typically a mattress spring, and is held in place by the weight of the mattress. The frame mounts a mosquito net support to which a mosquito net is attached in a position over the mattress. The mosquito net is draped down about the edges of the mattress to form an enclosed space. The frame, mosquito net support, and mosquito net can be easily disassembled for storage or transport in a small luggage bag.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1999Date of Patent: November 14, 2000Assignee: Tropical Safety Research, Inc.Inventors: Dale Whittington, Bryan W. Laffitte, Aly Khalifa
-
Patent number: 6138700Abstract: A wind shelter particularly useful for sunbathing on a beach has a floor and wedge-shaped wall that extends along two sides and across the back. The wall is supported by a frame extending around the top edge of the wall and upright support rods holding the frame away from the floor to stretch the side wall to a vertical orientation.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1998Date of Patent: October 31, 2000Inventor: Lorne D. Stoddart
-
Patent number: 6123091Abstract: A combination playyard and canopy assembly is provided. The playyard includes a top frame having first and second side rails and first and second end rails that define an opening. The canopy includes a mounting clip, frame members, and a cover. The frame members are pivotably coupled to the mounting clip for movement about a common pivot axis and the cover is attached to the frame members. The frame members are pivotable relative to the mounting clip between a first position in which the cover extends over the opening and a second position in which the cover is moved away from the opening to allow access to the interior region of the playyard. The mounting clip includes deformable members snapped onto the top frame to mount the canopy to the top frame. The bottom perimetral edge of the cover is attached to the top frame so that the cover encompasses the entire top frame when the frame members are in the first position.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1997Date of Patent: September 26, 2000Assignee: Cosco Management, Inc.Inventors: Robert C. Flynn, Yi M. Wang, Richard Glover
-
Patent number: 6109280Abstract: A cabana system adapted for use in a stand-alone mode is disclosed. The system includes a separable floor for use as a cover for a playyard of the type having vertically extending reception apertures in the upper corners thereof. The system is comprised of a frame fabricated of two flexible rods. Each flexible rod is hollow with free ends adapted to be received within apertures of a playyard. The rods are positioned in side-by-side relationship to thereby form a generally cylindrical central extent. The rod placement further forms spaced semi-circular planar surfaces on opposite sides thereof at the ends of the central sections. A fabric cover covers the tubes with a screen door in a semi-circular configuration in one planar face thereof with a fastener for coupling and uncoupling the screened panel. A fabric floor is formed as an extension of one planar face remote from the screen door and is adapted to depend downwardly over one side of the playyard when deployed thereon.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 1998Date of Patent: August 29, 2000Assignee: Evenflo Company, Inc.Inventor: Marty Custer
-
Patent number: 6082385Abstract: A structural supporting truss (12) comprises an elongate rib (14) of resilient material connected to a web (16) of fabric material. The rib (14), in use, is elastically deformed to adopt a curved shape. The web (16) extends radially inwardly of the rib (14) along its length, the web (16) acting in tension to retain the rib (14) in its curved condition. The rib (14) may be made of a plurality of segments interconnected by hinges. The web (16) may comprise a plurality of panels (20). The rib (14) is subject to a compressive force. A remarkably stiff truss structure is formed such as may be used as a supporting truss for a tent of like shelter structure.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1998Date of Patent: July 4, 2000Assignee: Web Engineering & Fabric Technology LimitedInventors: Neil Keith Burford, Fraser William Smith, Daniel Cecil Edward Fish
-
Patent number: 6067676Abstract: A playyard (10) includes a floor (12) and side panels (20) extending upwardly from the floor to provide an enclosure. At least one of the side panels has an opening (26) therethrough which is selectively covered by a pivotal door panel (30) to preclude access to and from the enclosure. The door panel (30) has a pair of retractable, spring-biased tube assemblies (40) that engage corners (16) which interconnect rails (18) that support the side panels.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 1998Date of Patent: May 30, 2000Assignee: Graco Children's Products Inc.Inventors: Michael Carnahan, Robert J. Warner, Jr.
-
Patent number: 6014982Abstract: A tent or tent-like structure which is inexpensive to produce and easily erected comprises a pair of continuous flexible support members or rods, each of which is bent into an approximately semi-circular configuration when the structure is assembled. The structure includes a substantially square base and four lateral faces to form a substantially pyramidal shaped canopy. Each end of each support member is retained by one of four retaining boots, each retaining boot affixed to the canopy adjacent to the base. Each support member is further retained by an apical retaining loop and a pair of lateral retaining loops located equidistant from the apical retaining loop and linearly arranged therewith. Tents according to the invention may be manufactured from suitable materials and of suitable size to render them fit for a wide range of purposes from a toy for a small child to a shelter for one or more adults. Methods of making such tent-like structures are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1997Date of Patent: January 18, 2000Inventor: Darlene Strevey
-
Patent number: 5984837Abstract: A play system floor includes a frame defining the periphery of an area to be floored and a webbed flooring constructed of a webbing material extending between the frame members. The webbing material has an optimal predetermined stretch coefficient at which it retains its resiliency, while resisting sagging. The webbed flooring is sized using the stretch coefficient whereby the dimensions of the webbed flooring when stretched substantially correspond to the dimensions of the area to be floored. The webbed flooring is stretched to the dimensions of the area to be floored and secured to the frame. The floor is stretched to the dimensions of the area to be floored by positioning a bar through loops on each side of the weaved flooring, and applying tension to each bar. The webbed flooring is secured to the frame by attaching each bar to the frame using clamps, bands, or other attaching devices. Tension to each bar is applied by operating a screw-actuated clamping member to tighten the bar against the frame.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 1998Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Assignee: PlaySmart, Inc.Inventors: Howard W. Weaver, Darrell A. Weaver