Arch-shaped Or Dome Type Patents (Class 135/124)
  • Publication number: 20080105290
    Abstract: An upper body tent structure is disclosed, which is capable of partially receiving an upper body of a human, so that a carry and storage are easy, and it is possible to effectively protect an upper body from insects such as mosquito, fly, etc. when taking a rest or sleep while enjoying leisure sports at outdoor in a state that an upper clothes is taken off. The upper body tent structure comprises a body which has a certain inner space for receiving an upper body of a human and maintains a semi-spherical shape based on a support member and has an anti-insect net on an outer surface of the same; and an opening which communicates with one side of the body and has a certain sealing means at the end of the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventor: Geun Su Ahn
  • Patent number: 7357140
    Abstract: A collapsible structure comprises a first frame member including first and second segments hingedly interconnected with each other allowing the collapsible structure to have a collapsed position and an expanded position. The collapsible structure further comprises a second frame member hingedly connected to the first frame member. The second frame member includes first and second segments hingedly interconnected with each other. A hinge member is employed to hingedly connect the first segment and the second segment. At least one of the first and second frame members includes a closed-loop configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Best Tide Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wan-Sing Chu, Lai-Ha Wu
  • Patent number: 7240683
    Abstract: A dismountable outdoor shelter kit for mounting upon an outdoor surface characterized by its anticlinal canopy that has an apex for shedding water and dirt and for providing protection from the sun. The shelter kit includes canopy supporting members and bracing members designed to give the shelter kit structural stability once assembled. Each of the main supporting members of the shelter kit is made up of a plurality of mated members, including, a bottom foot member adapted for transferring structural loads from the anticlinal canopy to the outdoor surface; a middle vertical member mated to the bottom foot members; and, an anticlinal cantilevered member adapted to support the anticlinal canopy. The canopy made from a rectangular sheet of material having suitable characteristics of fire resistance. The sheet has valences, depending flaps fixed to the bottom edges of the sheet and a sleeve structure adapted for receiving a bracing rod in order to fix the sheet to the canopy support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventor: Stoyan Zutich
  • Patent number: 7201177
    Abstract: A collapsible tent provides insect protection for infants such as less than a year old while being small and portable enough for use in many public spaces. Excellent ventilation and visibility are provided by mosquito and no-see-um blocking fabric formed into a dome-like shape. Flexible support rods cross one another at the apex of the tent and reside within arch-shaped fabric channels. A detachable or alternatively attached ground barrier completes the enclosure. For storage, the flexible support rods are brought adjacent to one another to form a flat arch-shape with the pair of proximate ends then coiled toward the other pair to form a small circular shape that is readily retained within this compact shape by a carrying pouch. When the tent is erected, the carrying pouch is attachable to the tent to serve as a sunshade. A hanging support inside the tent may be used to suspend infant toys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Inventors: Jennifer Cobb Anticoli, LaVonda Lynn Chandler
  • Patent number: 7137399
    Abstract: The invention is a collapsible structure comprising a plurality of panel elements, each having a coilable frame element and flexible material attached to the frame element. The panel elements are joined to define an enclosure having a roof portion and a bottom perimeter. The bottom perimeter rests on a supporting surface. The structure has at least one roof support rod having a first end and a second end. The first end of the at least one roof support rod is attached to a first location on the bottom perimeter, and the second end of the at least one roof support rod is attached to a second location on the bottom perimeter. The at least one roof support rod is in supporting contact with the roof portion of the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Inventors: Robert M. Ransom, Todd P. Weston, Ryan L. Kubica, Scott D. Wehner
  • Patent number: 7134443
    Abstract: A nominally floorless hikers' shelter having a raised, tensioned waterproof canopy supported off the ground by pole supports at the front and rear, in which the canopy has a catenary curved ridgeline tensioned between a higher vertical front arch support and a lower, outwardly-angled rear arch support. The shelter is longitudinally tensioned through front and rear awnings extending from the front and rear arch supports. The front awning includes a novel guyline tensioning and ventilation structure in which spaced parallel guylines are attached to the awning at circumferentially spaced locations between the arch support and the lower edge of the awning, leaving an unbroken web of fabric tensioning the arch, and allowing lower portions of the awning to be selectively rolled up for ventilation. The shelter preferably has a hanging insect netting perimeter, including front and rear door panels and sidewalls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Inventor: Henry C. Shires
  • Patent number: 7025074
    Abstract: A fabric covered structure such as for use as a gazebo or pavilion includes plural generally vertical support columns connected to roof beams which support a fabric roof. Opposed ends of the beams are each connected to one of the support columns and are each provided with a hook element for attachment to a cable or rope attached to the periphery of the fabric roof such as by being disposed in a peripheral hem of the fabric roof. Each roof beam is further provided with telescoping end portions to each of which is attached one of the hook elements for extending the end of the beam and maintaining the cable under tension and the fabric roof in a stretched condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: William H. Porter
  • Patent number: 7004183
    Abstract: A shelter structure is disclosed having a substantially dome-shaped frame comprising a plurality of flexible resilient poles maintained under tension in substantially arcuate shape. The poles are arranged in intersecting relationship and form a plurality of pole crossings. Opposite ends of the poles terminate in a common plane such as the ground or a base. The pole arrangement creates a plurality of adjacent four-sided openings having pole crossings as vertices and sections of poles as sides. A plurality of tension harnesses interconnect diagonal vertices of adjacent openings, thereby providing strength and rigidity to the structure. The frame defines an interior volume and a membrane or covering is connected to the frame to substantially shelter the interior volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Inventor: Robert E. Gillis
  • Patent number: 6988505
    Abstract: Canopies traditionally come in the form of canopy kits, and once erected, provide portable shelter for property, outdoor parties, etc. However, while canopies are useful in a wide variety of applications, the erected canopy structure is often restricted to a fixed size. The present invention discloses a canopy structure kit for a canopy that is transversely expandable from a first width, typically wide enough for an automobile, to a second width, typically wide enough for two automobiles. The expandable canopy structure kit includes extension members to expand the frame structure, and at least one cover adapted to fit the erected frame structure, whether the frame structure assumes an expanded or unexpanded configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Powell & Powell Supply Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Billy R. Powell, Toney A. Powell, David R. Powell
  • Patent number: 6881506
    Abstract: 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 ΒΌ 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: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignees: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture, The Governors of the University of Alberta
    Inventors: Leslie Leah Anderson, Mary Ann Davies, Anthony Clement Petrilli, Mark Y. Ackerman
  • Patent number: 6874518
    Abstract: A fabric covered structure such as for use as a gazebo or pavilion includes plural generally vertical support columns connected to roof beams which support a fabric roof. Opposed ends of the beams are each connected to one of the support columns and are each provided with a hook element for attachment to a cable or rope attached to the periphery of the fabric roof such as by being disposed in a peripheral hem of the fabric roof. Each roof beam is further provided with telescoping end portions to each of which is attached one of the hook elements for extending the end of the beam and maintaining the cable under tension and the fabric roof in a stretched condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventor: William H. Porter
  • Patent number: 6857246
    Abstract: A customizable enclosable frame assembly for providing a housing structure comprising an arrangement of elongated members connected by a plurality of connectors to define the frame assembly. The connectors include a plurality of knuckle joint assemblies for articulably connecting the elongated members. The connectors also include a plurality of slip-T members for connecting the elongated members to define a customizable, adjustable base of the customizable frame assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventors: Robert Anthony Erbetta, Henry C. Waters
  • Patent number: 6845781
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Dick's Sporting Goods, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd A. Brown
  • Patent number: 6843261
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventor: Robert E. Gillis
  • Patent number: 6810896
    Abstract: An improved inflatable tent includes a plurality of inflatable hollow rounded units (1), each tent unit 1 including an outer sheet (4) and an inner sheet (5) connected to each other at their respective ends, a side sheet (6) connecting the outer sheet (4) and the inner sheet (5) along their opposed sides, the side sheet (6) constituting a connecting portion (9), and a floor sheet (8) integrally connected to the lower end of the inner sheet (5). A pair of outer and inner water-impervious slide fasteners (10) are mounted between each pair of adjacent tent units (1) along the outside and insider thereof for joining the pair of adjacent tent units (1) of the tent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: YKK Corporation
    Inventors: Shigeru Ueda, Masahiro Kusayama
  • Publication number: 20040168715
    Abstract: A tent has a framework having at least two flexible strips bent with an intersection at central points of the strips as a top of the tent. A flexible ring is provided outside the flexible strips and adjacent to the top of the tent. A cloth is sheathed on the framework. The tent has a broad top space without a central pole, which is convenient to use in hunting or as a business site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Ching-Hsuan Wang
  • Patent number: 6758230
    Abstract: A novel airplane shelter provides a plurality of arched vertical support members arranged axially along a line corresponding to the fuselage of an airplane to be sheltered. A cantilevered beam is attached to the apex of each arched vertical support member, forming a “spine” along the top of the aligned arched support members. The cantilevered beam is attached at one end to the rearwardmost arched support member, and the opposite end extends forwardly past the forwardmost arched support member to a point corresponding to the forwardmost point of an airplane to be sheltered. Separate lateral support members are placed at points corresponding to the wingtips of the airplane. The result is an open frame that defines a volume capable of enclosing an airplane. A covering material is placed over the open frame and stretched taut over the entire structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Inventor: Donald Bogart, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6752164
    Abstract: The invention discloses an indoor tent encompassing the space in a room designed to change the atmosphere of a child's room or play room having preprinted characters and the ability whereby users can create interchangeable themes. The room-tent has a zippered access panel functioning as a door that functions from the interior and the exterior. A window is provided to allow air and sunlight to enter the structure and has attached curtains. An opening is also provided for either a viewing port or access port and can also be provided with curtains. A cargo net is attached to the ceiling portion of the interior of the tent. Objects such as clothes, books, magazines, towels and other goods are stored away and easily access. Hook and loop attachable picture frames are also provided. The frames are designed so that the pictures can be interchangeable with the design of the tent. The picture frames are fixedly attached to the tent wall by means of hook and loop fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventor: Wan Joo Park
  • Publication number: 20040103935
    Abstract: A fabric covered structure such as for use as a gazebo or pavilion includes plural generally vertical support columns connected to roof beams which support a fabric roof. Opposed ends of the beams are each connected to one of the support columns and are each provided with a hook element for attachment to a cable or rope attached to the periphery of the fabric roof such as by being disposed in a peripheral hem of the fabric roof. Each roof beam is further provided with telescoping end portions to each of which is attached one of the hook elements for extending the end of the beam and maintaining the cable under tension and the fabric roof in a stretched condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Publication date: June 3, 2004
    Inventor: William H. Porter
  • Publication number: 20040031208
    Abstract: This invention comprises an inflatable structure that is constructed by combining polyhedron structural elements to form more complex geodesic structures. The structural elements are constructed out of straight inflatable tubes, in which the warp of the polyester reinforced fabric is aligned with the principal tube axis, giving it high resistance to bending. The complementary leg ends are connected at the vertices with connectors that comprise a slider and track formation, fixed along the axial angle at the end of each leg. Each leg end is shaped along the natural complimentary lines along the intersecting surfaces of the adjacent structural element. Once assembled, in combination with a fabric cover and groundsheet, the tent is stable and completely freestanding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2003
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventor: Etienne Douw Visser
  • Patent number: 6688256
    Abstract: A portable pet enclosure having a plurality of frame pieces connected via flexible netting. The frame pieces each contain a semicircular hoop having two end prongs for insertion into the ground. A cross-bar extends between the two legs of the frame several inches above the prongs to provide a base for resting on the ground. A door is attached to the end frame piece and secured closed via zipper. The pet enclosure is collapsible and easily transportable inside its own carrying bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: Lise King
  • Patent number: 6679009
    Abstract: A large temporary shelter designed to act as a communication, maintenance, and warehouse facility in all types of climate and terrain. The shelter is engineered for durability, portability, repetitive assembly and disassembly. The shelter includes a plurality of lightweight structural arched frame supports that are easy to assemble and connect to a lightweight, rectangular-shaped base frame temporarily attached to the ground. The shelter also includes a durable outer cover and an inner liner that extends over the outside and inside surfaces of the arched frame supports. The outer cover and inner linings are spaced apart to create duct spaces between the arched frame supports for heating air conditioning. A central attic space is created between the outer cover and the inner linings which creates a large central air space for greater insulation. Formed on one end of the shelter are at least one personnel door and two double-hinged vehicle doors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Douglas T. Hotes
  • Patent number: 6672011
    Abstract: A modular command post system comprised of removable interconnecting truss elements is provided. The modular command post system is configured to provide shelter and infrastructure to support various electronic equipment used by occupants of the command post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Solipsys Corporation
    Inventors: Paul N. Garner, Lynn J. Adams, Charles P. Richards
  • Patent number: 6662492
    Abstract: A garden memorial arch floral material holder is installed in a cemetary with two ground penetrating stake assemblies and a flora holding assembly. The flora holding assembly comprises a plurality of rods connected in tandem and the rods have sufficient flexibility to elastically deform from an unstressed straight linear aspect to an arcuate aspect encompassing a semi-circular arch configuration, without permanent deformation. Rods of different length may be connected in different combinations to provide different arch assembly lengths. The rod connections have abutments limiting telescopic overlapping and friction detents to resist disconnection. Each of the two stake assemblies has a horizontal brace portion to be engaged by foot to force a stake portion into a cemetery ground, to engage the ground to limit the penetration, and to provide vertical alignment. The stake assemblies are in spaced apart parallel planes that are perpendicular to the arch assembly to stabilize the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventor: Scottie James Oliver
  • Patent number: 6615550
    Abstract: A space-dividing covered work space arrangement including a pair of opposed side modules each of a three-wall construction defined by an upright panel arrangement and a pair of upright end walls disposed at opposite ends thereof and projecting inwardly therefrom. A pair of canopies project inwardly from each of the opposed modules and are attached along inner edges thereof so as to define a continuous canopy assembly which overlies and encloses the work space from above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Reuschel, Ralph E. Reddig
  • Patent number: 6598613
    Abstract: A pneumatic wall structure and a method of making and erecting same. The pneumatic wall structure includes an inner flexible tent sheet, a central flexible tent sheet and an outer flexible tent sheet. The inner, the central and the outer flexible tent sheets are arranged to form a two-layer wall structure comprising (i) an inner layer formed by the inner tent sheet and the central tent sheet and, (ii) an outer layer formed by the central tent sheet and the outer tent sheet. The inner layer is inflatable and provides a main support structure for the wall structure, and the outer layer forms a convection space into which an ambient air is capable of flowing. The inflatable support tubes are arranged between the central tent sheet and the outer tent sheet to provide redundancy to the main support structure and to provide a spacer between the central tent sheet and the outer tent sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Dornier GmbH
    Inventors: Albert Fritzche, Peter Geiselhart
  • Publication number: 20030116182
    Abstract: An improved inflatable tent includes a plurality of inflatable hollow rounded units (1), each tent unit 1 including an outer sheet (4) and an inner sheet (5) connected to each other at their respective ends, a side sheet (6) connecting the outer sheet (4) and the inner sheet (5) along their opposed sides, the side sheet (6) constituting a connecting portion (9), and a floor sheet (8) integrally connected to the lower end of the inner sheet (5). A pair of outer and inner water-impervious slide fasteners (10) are mounted between each pair of adjacent tent units (1) along the outside and insider thereof for joining the pair of adjacent tent units (1) of the tent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Applicant: YKK CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shigeru Ueda, Masahiro Kusayama
  • Publication number: 20030098055
    Abstract: An apparatus, useful as a hunting blind, includes a base, a seat operably mounted on the base, and a spring-biased camouflaged hood movably supported over the seat. A latch holds the hood down until a hunter sits on the seat, releasing the latch, but the hunter's weight then holds the hood down against the spring. The spring automatically moves the hood from a closed hiding position toward an open position when a hunter stands up, as the hunter removes his weight from the seat. The base is adapted with radially-extending feet for stability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2001
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventor: Robert E. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20030098054
    Abstract: A waterproof vehicle parking shade device includes a shade having a space for receiving and parking a vehicle, a bottom board mounted on a bottom of the shade, multiple inflatable strips mounted on a peripheral face of the shade and capable of supporting the entire shade after inflation, and a door plate secured on one end of the shade for closing and sealing the shade, to prevent water from entering the shade, thereby preventing the vehicle in the shade from being soaked in the water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventor: Hong Yuan Yang
  • Publication number: 20030066550
    Abstract: A collapsible, portable shelter has a quarter-spherical arcuate shape with an open face. A lightweight frame and covering allow for quick set-up and take-down. The shelter is suitable for protection from the sun and other elements, and also provides a degree of privacy to its occupants.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventor: Mohammed Saeed Rafe Al-Ghamdi
  • Publication number: 20030024561
    Abstract: A shelter structure is disclosed having a substantially dome-shaped frame comprising a plurality of flexible resilient poles maintained under tension in substantially arcuate shape. The poles are arranged in intersecting relationship and form a plurality of pole crossings. Opposite ends of the poles terminate in a common plane such as the ground or a base. The pole arrangement creates a plurality of adjacent four-sided openings having pole crossings as vertices and sections of poles as sides. A plurality of tension harnesses interconnect diagonal vertices of adjacent openings, thereby providing strength and rigidity to the structure. The frame defines an interior volume and a membrane or covering is connected to the frame to substantially shelter the interior volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Robert E. Gillis
  • Publication number: 20030024560
    Abstract: A tent is adapted for attachment to a cot. A preferred version of a tent includes a body made of fabric or similar sheet material, with a floor, two ends and two sides. A frame includes first and second frame poles carried within sleeves defined within the fabric body. Four to six fasteners secure the body to the frame of the cot. Each fastener passes around the frame, through a hole defined between the cot frame and cot fabric, and is secured to the bottom of the floor. A rain guard includes two opposed side panels and two opposed end panels. The rain guard prevents rain from pooling on the tent floor or on the horizontal fabric of the cot. Rain moving down the fabric body is guided past the tent floor and cot fabric, where it is released.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Wallace G. Tomason
  • Publication number: 20030024564
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Robert E. Gillis
  • Publication number: 20030019515
    Abstract: The invention relates to a pneumatic wall structure and a method of making and erecting same. The pneumatic wall structure includes an inner flexible tent sheet, a central flexible tent sheet and an outer flexible tent sheet. The inner, the central and the outer flexible tent sheets are arranged to form a two-layer wall structure comprising (i) an inner layer formed by the inner tent sheet and the central tent sheet and, (ii) an outer layer formed by the central tent sheet and the outer tent sheet. The inner layer is inflatable and provides a main support structure for the wall structure, and the outer layer forms a convection space into which an ambient air is capable of flowing. The inflatable support tubes are arranged between the central tent sheet and the outer tent sheet to provide redundancy to the main support structure and to provide a spacer between the central tent sheet and the outer tent sheet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventors: Albert Fritzche, Peter Geiselhart
  • Patent number: 6508444
    Abstract: A swing support assembly includes a pair of upright side frames which are spaced apart from each other, and a horizontal hanger bar extending between the side frames. Each of the side frames includes a front leg unit and a rear leg unit. The front leg unit includes a pair of front leg members which are disposed side-by-side, and a front connecting member disposed between and secured to the front leg members. The rear leg unit includes a pair of rear leg members which are disposed side-by-side, and a rear connecting member disposed between and secured to the rear leg members. Each of the side frames further includes at least one intermediate connecting member disposed between the front and rear leg units and fastened to the front and rear connecting members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Shin Yeh Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chuen-Jong Tseng
  • Patent number: 6505638
    Abstract: The canopy structure of the present invention includes a generally rigid internal frame structure comprised of light-weight metal tubes and a pliable, waterproof covering such as nylon or other functionally similar fabric. The canopy covering further includes a series of grommet reinforced securing points which are each adapted to receive a tie-down or securing cord. These securing cords are formed of a loop of elastic or shock cord material which is attached to a ball-shaped stopper. Threaded into the edges of the canopy end panels are a pair of elastic bolt cords which also incorporate ball-shaped stoppers at both ends. The canopy covering is stretched taughtly across the top of the frame structure and attached to individual horizontal frame members using the elastic securing cords. Grommets located along the sides of the covering are attached to individual vertical frame members using both the elastic securing cords and an associated securing or locking tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Inventors: Billy R. Powell, Toney A. Powell, David R. Powell
  • Publication number: 20030005953
    Abstract: A customizable enclosable frame assembly for providing a housing structure comprising an arrangement of elongated members connected by a plurality of connectors to define the frame assembly. The connectors include a plurality of knuckle joint assemblies for articulably connecting the elongated members. The connectors also include a plurality of slip-T members for connecting the elongated members to define a customizable, adjustable base of the customizable frame assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventors: Robert Anthony Erbetta, Henry C. Waters
  • Patent number: 6502594
    Abstract: Canopy structure for creating, selectively and removable, a free-standing, temporary canopy over a selected article, such as a food article. This structure includes, fundamentally, a thin flexible, and preferably transparent, sheet canopy material prepared, appropriately, into pre-selected sizes (typically squares or rectangles) and one or more elongate plastically and elastically bendable ribs, made, for example, of a suitable plastic or wire material, which can be bent to the shape of a vaulting arch, which shape is capable substantially of retaining, and which functions as a support over which the canopy sheet material is placed. Opposite ends of such a rib in use may be tucked into articles which form part of the environment of the article which is being covered, or they may be supported in removeably attachable feet that are reusable and are supplied with the rib and sheet material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Caddy Company, LLC
    Inventor: Gail L. Gerstmar
  • Publication number: 20020179133
    Abstract: A multi-sided structure for outdoor use comprising a shell having a plurality of panels. The shell further having a plurality of apertures and a means for entering and exiting the shell. The structure further comprising a plurality of support poles attached to an inner surface of the shell. Generally, the poles overlap at an upper portion of the shell to define the overall shape of the structure. Each support pole extends from a first lower portion of the shell, through the upper portion of the shell, and to a second lower portion of the shell. Each aperture is configured to allow a user to view an object located beyond the structure. The structure further comprising means for securing the structure to an outdoor surface to prevent unwanted movement of the structure during operation and use of the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventor: Michael Abbinante
  • Publication number: 20020170588
    Abstract: A tower type sunshade is disclosed, in which a conical roof tent can be formed in a simple manner without using any minor beams. The tower type sunshade according to the present invention includes four posts 1 and four lateral rods 2 respectively connected through four f-shaped connectors 3 to the four posts. Four major beams 4 are connected to the upper tips of the f shaped connectors 3 and to an X shaped connector 3a in the diagonal directions to form an X shaped contour. A tubular supporting rod 5 of a certain length is connected vertically to the upper tip of the X shaped connector 3a, and a roof tent cloth 6 having a peak part 6a is installed thereon, the peak part 6a being fitted to the upper tip of the tubular supporting rod 5. A securing rod 7 having a flange 7a is installed, the lower tip of the securing rod 7 being fitted into the upper tip portion of the tubular supporting rod 5.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventor: Chun Sik Seo
  • Patent number: 6470901
    Abstract: A tent comprises a shell and a frame comprising a plurality of poles extending over the shell holding the shell up in an erect configuration in which the shell encloses a living space. Tension-taking trussing extends between the poles on the exterior of the shell to stabilize the tent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: American Recreation Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Scherer
  • Publication number: 20020153033
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for providing a collapsible support structure strut comprising, which may include a strut member; a hollow tubular terminal end portion of the strut member having an inner surface; and a detachable looped eyelet having at least one loop and a pair of extending legs, the legs being springedly biased to engage the tubular terminal end of the strut, thereby frictionally holding the looped eyelet in place at the terminal end of the strut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventor: Stephen F. Miller
  • Patent number: 6467424
    Abstract: A submersible system is provided for isolating a volume of water located above an underwater substrate and for analyzing the volume of water. The system includes a tent having a shape enclosing an area of underwater substrate and a volume of water immediately above the substrate. A support frame formed by frame members each including plural detachable sections for maintaining the shape of the tent. A securing assembly, comprising a peripheral flap held down by weights in the form of sandbags or a heavy chain serves to secure the tent to the substrate. A circulation system, located at least partially within the tent, provides circulation of the volume of water within the tent so as to maintain a circulating flow pattern within the tent. A flow through analytical system is provided for removing a portion of water from the enclosed volume of water and for analyzing at least one property of the portion of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Interior
    Inventors: Kimberly K. Yates, Robert B. Halley
  • Publication number: 20020134415
    Abstract: The modular tent is constituted by:
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventor: David Boulange
  • Patent number: 6450187
    Abstract: A support structure for use primarily as a lightweight, portable, strong, and fracture resistant tent support and the like, and method for making thereof. The support structure includes a fiberglass core and a resilient outer layer of material that is at least 0.2 millimeters thick. Preferably, the outer layer is made of polyethylene that is between 0.5 to 0.6 millimeters thick, inclusive. In a preferred embodiment, the support structure is curved to conform with the shape of the tent it supports, thereby preventing the support structure from springing back when inadvertently released from the tent. More preferably, the support member includes a plurality of elongate curved sections that are detachably secured together to form the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: YJ (USA)
    Inventors: Tseng Hsiang Lin, Craig B. Adams
  • Publication number: 20020124877
    Abstract: A portable shelter is provided which is particularly useful for shielding seated occupants in a boat and the like from the weather including wind and water spray. The shelter includes a base member and a generally U-shaped frame member which pivotally mounted on the base member for movement between an extended position in which the frame member extends upwardly from the base member and a collapsed position folded alongside the base member. Sheeted material is provided for spanning between base member and the frame member in the extended position. A tensioning mechanism is coupled between the base member and the frame member for biasing the frame member into the extended position with the sheeted material under tension. The tensioning mechanism is collapsible with the frame member into the collapsed position thus providing an easily portable shelter which is self supporting in the extended position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Applicant: Dufort Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Claude Dufort
  • Publication number: 20020108646
    Abstract: A large temporary shelter designed to act as a communication, maintenance, and warehouse facility in all types of climate and terrain. The shelter is engineered for durability, portability, repetitive assembly and disassembly. The shelter includes a plurality of lightweight structural arched frame supports that are easy to assemble and connect to a lightweight, rectangular-shaped base frame temporarily attached to the ground. The shelter also includes a durable outer cover and an inner liner that extends over the outside and inside surfaces of the arched frame supports. The outer cover and inner linings are spaced apart to create duct spaces between the arched frame supports for heating air conditioning. A central attic space is created between the outer cover and the inner linings which creates a large central air space for greater insulation. Formed on one end of the shelter are at least one personnel door and two double-hinged vehicle doors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventor: Douglas T. Hotes
  • Patent number: 6415806
    Abstract: A flexible structure is described having one or more deformable, resilient poles and one or more tension webs associated therewith, having strut members, and being coupled to the poles to maintain the pole(s) in a selected shape under tension and to impart strength and rigidity to the structure. A flexible membrane may also be provided to define a sheltered space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Inventor: Robert E. Gillis
  • Patent number: 6402220
    Abstract: The present invention provides a portable enclosure for use in protecting an all-terrain vehicle or another open-topped vehicle against damage and degradation from exposure to the weather. A further use of the portable enclosure of the invention is as a blind for use in hunting. The portable enclosure includes bendable support beams that arch from front to rear mounting brackets attached to the vehicle. The support beams are held parallel to one another by cross braces and a top panel. Additional front, rear, and side panels, each being equipped with a transparent window, are attached to the top panel and each other by Velcro® or zipper fasteners. The support beams and cross braces are segmented to pack into a carrying case along with the folded fabric panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Edmund L. Allen
  • Patent number: 6381767
    Abstract: A swimming pool cover support having: a central hub, a number of knockdown arms radiating from the central hub, and a number of mounting brackets each being respectively secured to one of the knockdown arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventor: Francis L. Brashears