Having Link Means Patents (Class 135/130)
  • Patent number: 11927297
    Abstract: A garden swing canopy adjustor comprising; a support member having a first end configured to be coupled to a garden swing canopy and a second end; a first adjustment mechanism fixedly coupled to the second end of the support member, the first adjustment mechanism is operable to rotate the support member around a first axis to adjust a tilt of the garden swing canopy in a first direction; and a second adjustment mechanism coupled to the first adjustment mechanism, the second adjustment mechanism is operable to rotate the support member around a second axis to adjust the tilt of the garden swing canopy in a second direction, and wherein the second axis is perpendicular to the first axis and comprises a fixed orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2024
    Assignee: Hablamer, LLC
    Inventor: Theodore G. Habing
  • Patent number: 11857858
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a separable component such as a relay baton. The relay baton includes a first tubular body having an outer surface as well as a second tubular body at least partially surrounding the first tubular body and having an inner surface. An interface can be formed between the outer surface and the inner surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: Briggs Athletics LLC
    Inventor: Brandon Briggs
  • Patent number: 11433822
    Abstract: A net assembly for a vehicle, comprising an assembly of rod elements, each of which has a guide channel; a plurality of joint elements, each of which has at least one connection opening, wherein the rod elements are connected together via the joint elements; and at least one tensioning element which extends through the guide channels of at least some of the rod elements and the connection openings of at least some of the joint elements and can be tensioned in order to clamp the rod elements relative to the joint elements. In this manner, a net assembly is provided which can be used in a variable manner, the shape of which can be adapted in a flexible manner, and which can thus be used to withstand forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignee: Brose Fahrzeugteile SE & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft, Coburg
    Inventors: Matthias Baumecker, Lucas Becker, Tobias Baumann
  • Patent number: 11433974
    Abstract: A retractable canopy for a watercraft lift includes an actuator operatively connected to the watercraft lift and a movable boom to rotate the movable boom relative to the watercraft lift; a linkage extends between the fixed boom and the movable boom, at least one first strut is supported by the linkage, at least one second strut is supported by a fixed boom; and at least one third strut is supported by the movable boom. The fixed boom, the movable boom, the at least one second strut, and the at least one third strut support a cover in an extended configuration above a watercraft area. The fixed boom, the movable boom, the at least one first strut, the at least one second strut, and the at least one third strut support the cover in a retracted configuration adjacent to the fixed strut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignee: BASTA IP INC.
    Inventors: Samuel T. Basta, Gene Thompson
  • Patent number: 11208827
    Abstract: A tent having a frame (1), the frame (1) having a plurality of sub-frames (3a-c); each said sub-frame (3a-c) having a pair of elongate side members (5a-c) connected by an elongate cross member (35a-c), a first free end (4a-c), and a second free end (6a-c); a first foot (10) coupled to each of said first free ends (4a-c) of said sub-frames (3a-c); a second foot (10) coupled to each of said second free ends (6a-c) of said sub-frames (3a-c); each foot (10) adapted to permit movement of said sub-frames (3a-c) with respect to each other, and each foot (10) adapted to be placed on a surface to support said frame (1) in use; one sub-frame (3c) adapted to be located in use on a ground surface, a locking mechanism (2) locatable on a second sub-frame (3b) and adapted in use to slide along said side member (5b) of said second sub-frame (3b) to lock in place a support member (30a, b) extendable in use from said one sub-frame (3c).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2021
    Assignee: Oztent Australia Pty. Limited
    Inventor: Peter Long
  • Patent number: 10863734
    Abstract: The portable hunting blind chair is a portable structure. The portable hunting blind chair is a hunting blind. The portable hunting blind chair comprises a chair, a blind, and a bag. The chair is a folding and telescopic structure used for siting. The blind forms an exterior shell around the chair. The blind is a collapsible shelter. The blind is adjustable such that the field of view from the blind is adjustable. The blind attaches to the chair using a threaded connection. The bag is a containment structure that contains the portable hunting blind chair for transportation and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventor: Timothy George
  • Patent number: 10753117
    Abstract: A system for providing shade onto a surface is described herein. The system includes a canopy configured for engagement with, and aerial suspension by, a frame. The frame includes a plurality of sections configured for end-to-end alignment from a left end to a right end of the frame. Each section is configured to engage with any adjacent sections to form the frame. The ends of the frame are secured to the surface, thereby aerially suspending the canopy and providing shade to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: SHIBUMI SHADE, INC.
    Inventors: Dane Brooks Barnes, Alexander Griffith Slater, Scott Christian Barnes
  • Patent number: 10190330
    Abstract: A system for providing shade onto a surface is described herein. The system includes a canopy configured for engagement with, and aerial suspension by, a frame. The frame includes a plurality of sections configured for end-to-end alignment from a left end to a right end of the frame. Each section is configured to engage with any adjacent sections to form the frame. The ends of the frame are secured to the surface, thereby aerially suspending the canopy and providing shade to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Shibumi Shade, LLC
    Inventors: Dane Brooks Barnes, Alexander Griffith Slater, Scott Christian Barnes
  • Patent number: 9834953
    Abstract: A scalable, light-weight, portable, self-supporting and adjustable, multi-purpose, cubular utility barrier enclosure (C.U.B.E.) structural system, made of a membrane that defines a space and resiliently flexible poles, that maintain a stable shape as the membrane is pushed out by the poles connected together in flexed pole loops contained within the space, that are caused to bow in a flexed condition and are biased in place by the membrane when the poles are positioned in a freestanding manner, with adjustable section lengths that slip fit connect together to form various flexed pole loop configurations in proportion with the membrane to be biased in place, the membrane is constituted by pliable mesh that is substantially impermeable to insects, comprised of durable, high-tenacity synthetic fiber, resistant to puncture, prolong exposure to the sun, wind, and weather elements, substantially waterproof, thermally insulated, fire resistant, and configured in various shapes and sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Inventor: David Edward Ways
  • Patent number: 9534407
    Abstract: Apparatus for use in isolating a subject, the apparatus including a frame movable between collapsed and erected configurations, a body supported by the frame, wherein in the erected configuration, the body defines an internal volume for containing a subject to thereby substantially isolate the subject from a surrounding environment and a door actuator supported by the frame for moving a door between open and closed positions to thereby provide access to the internal volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Care Strategic D.I.R. Holdings Pty. Ltd.
    Inventors: Justin Douglas Ballantyne, James Edward Burkwood, Anna Louise Ballantyne
  • Patent number: 9470011
    Abstract: A method of setting up a portable barrier includes (a) moving a first leg and a second leg away from each other to an arrangement in which a first extension portion of the first leg and a second extension portion of the second leg are each supported on a substantially horizontal surface, (b) moving a flooring from a collapsed flooring configuration to an expanded flooring configuration in response to step (a), (c) moving a first arm and a second arm away from each other, (d) moving a covering from a collapsed covering configuration to an expanded covering configuration in response to step (c), and (e) securing a supplemental component in fixed relation to the second leg after step (d). When the flooring is in the expanded flooring configuration and the covering is in the expanded covering configuration, an occupant space is defined between the flooring and the covering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Assignee: Shadiant, LLC
    Inventor: Paul J. Maginot
  • Patent number: 8978679
    Abstract: A temporary garage device is disclosed that allows users to easily protect the outside of their vehicle from the elements. The temporary garage device comprises a protective cover component and a storage component for storing the protective cover component. Typically, the protective cover component is positioned in an arc-shape via a plurality of thin beams secured to the interior surface of the protective cover component to form a semi-rigid skeletal structure. Specifically, the protective cover component collapses in an accordion style for storage in the interior of the storage component. When needed, the protective cover component can then be linearly extended outward from the storage component in a semi-tubular configuration to cover the vehicle. Additionally, the storage component can comprise a plurality of wheels secured to a bottom side to allow the storage component to move and for ease in transportation of the temporary garage device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Inventor: Joseph Jennings
  • Publication number: 20140034100
    Abstract: A portable shelter including a base, a collapsible support member that is projectable substantially diagonally upward and rearward from the portion of the base, a collapsible base support member that is projectable first diagonally downward to a bend and then forward from the portion of the base, and another collapsible support member or a spreader bar that is attachable to an end portion of the collapsible base support member, wherein the collapsible support member, the another collapsible support member or the spreader bar, and the collapsible base support member comprise a frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: Plano Molding Company
    Inventors: Timothy S. Makos, Ryan John Keckner, Bruce Carl Nelson
  • Patent number: 8567448
    Abstract: A liner or core pipe which is suitable for insertion into a host pipe, the core pipe including, in certain aspects, a pipe made of temperature-resistant corrosion-resistant material and having an outer surface, an inner surface, a first end and a second end and a flow channel therethrough from the first end to the second end; first and second strengthening wraps around the pipe; a plurality of spaced-apart pulling tapes on the pipe; the pipe deformable to facilitate insertion into a host pipe, and a protective outer wrap on the pipe. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Smart Pipe Company, Inc.
    Inventors: William D. Stringfellow, Stephen C. Catha, Kenneth R. Charboneau
  • Patent number: 8555909
    Abstract: A tent having two joints, multiple frames and a fly. The frames are mounted on the joints and are classified into a stationary frame, a supporting frame and at least one pivoting frame. The frames cooperate to define a parking space for receiving a cycle when unfolding. The fly covers the frames and the parking space. The frames are capable of folding and overlapping one another to facilitate carrying and storage of the tent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Sportsman Corporation
    Inventor: Jack Chen
  • Publication number: 20130032187
    Abstract: A tent having two joints, multiple frames and a fly. The frames are mounted on the joints and are classified into a stationary frame, a supporting frame and at least one pivoting frame. The frames cooperate to define a parking space for receiving a cycle when unfolding. The fly covers the frames and the parking space. The frames are capable of folding and overlapping one another to facilitate carrying and storage of the tent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: SPORTSMAN CORPORATION
    Inventor: Jack Chen
  • Publication number: 20130025642
    Abstract: Foldable tent structure that includes the assembly of a number of curved half-poles that are connected to one another in their upper part according to a general radial arrangement to form, in the deployed state, the frame that supports the fabric of the tent and that can be folded against one another to store the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Christophe GARREAU
  • Patent number: 7900646
    Abstract: A collapsible support structure comprises a plurality of interconnected substantially triangular frame sections connected by flexible joints at corners thereof. At least some of the interconnected frame sections share a collapsible tubular member as one side of the interconnected triangular frame sections and at least some of the ends of rigid tubular members of the interconnected frame sections are disposed between adjacent shared collapsible tubular members. An elongated flexible tensioning member extends through the shared collapsible tubular members and between the ends of the rigid tubular members disposed between adjacent shared collapsible tubular members. The rigid tubular members of some of the interconnected frame sections form a frame roof with ends thereof tied to form a flexible joint at the apex frame roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Inventor: Stephen F. Miller
  • Publication number: 20100006130
    Abstract: A quick folding structure for a post unit of a tent frame includes upper, middle and lower posts, an upper connector, and a lower connector. The upper connector is disposed between the upper and middle posts and includes a first upper connecting portion and a second upper connecting portion. The lower connector is disposed between the middle and lower posts and includes a first lower connecting portion and a second lower connecting portion. A wire rope has a first end secured to the first upper connecting portion and a second end connected to a pin. A spring and the pin are disposed in a ladder-shaped trough of the first lower connecting portion. Two ends of the spring engage with the ladder-shaped trough and a first end of the pin, respectively. A second end of the pin faces an engaging notch of the second lower connecting portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2008
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Inventor: Nanqing ZHOU
  • Patent number: 7644721
    Abstract: A mechanism that is comprised of two or more four-bar linkages is shown. Each linkage shares a common link with each adjacent linkage and the movement of said two or more linkages is synchronized by mechanical means such that said mechanism may move between a collapsed and an extended state. Said mechanical means may be in the form of additional links or geared connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Inventors: Charles Hoberman, Matthew Davis
  • Publication number: 20090272415
    Abstract: The present invention provides a modular, collapsible, multifunctional tent or shelter. Specifically, the tent is comprised of at least two interior structures with a central space between them that form a frame which can be covered by a fabric or similar material. Each interior structure is comprised of at least three vertical arches and two horizontal rectangular frames so as to form a tent structure with a built-in berth. The horizontal rectangular frames can be vertically collapsed to form a multifunctional space. A plurality of interior structures can be attached together to form different-sized shelters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventor: Pilar Sepulveda Zepeda
  • Patent number: 7533681
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for providing a collapsible support structure strut, 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. The apparatus and method may also employ a holding plug, with first and second holding groove opposingly placed in the periphery of the holding plug, having at least a portion thereof that is shaped and sized to frictionally engage the inner surface of the tubular terminal end of the strut, to frictionally hold the holding plug in engagement with the strut. The detachable looped eyelet may also have at least two loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Inventor: Stephen F. Miller
  • Patent number: 7516750
    Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided having at least two panels, with each of the panels having a flexible loop member defining a closed loop and adapted to assume an expanded position and a collapsed position, and a fabric for partially covering the loop member. The loop members of two adjacent first and second panels overlap each other at a first overlapping point along first edges of the loop members, and at a second overlapping point along second edges of the loop members, with the overlapping loop members defining a hinge portion about which the two loop members of the first and second panels are pivotable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 7472715
    Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided having at least four panels, including a bottom panel, a first panel, a second panel and a third panel. Each panel has a foldable frame member having a folded and an unfolded orientation, with a fabric material covering portions of the frame member to form the panel when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation. The fabric assumes the unfolded orientation of the frame member. Each panel further includes a first side and a second side, with the first side of one panel coupled to the second side of an adjacent panel, and with the bottom panel resting on the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Publication number: 20040222336
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for providing a collapsible support structure strut, 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. The apparatus and method may also employ a holding plug, with first and second holding groove opposingly placed in the periphery of the holding plug, having at least a portion thereof that is shaped and sized to frictionally engage the inner surface of the tubular terminal end of the strut, to frictionally hold the holding plug in engagement with the strut. The detachable looped eyelet may also have at least two loops.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Inventor: Stephen Miller
  • Patent number: 6772780
    Abstract: A collapsible frame for use in erecting tents, canopies and the like at outdoor venues includes a plurality of telescopic legs for providing vertical structural support, and a plurality of top corner joints each fixedly mounted upon a top end of a corresponding telescopic leg. A leg slider joint is adjustably mounted upon each telescopic leg for sliding along that telescopic leg. A truss pair of link members is mounted to a pair of top corner joints and to a corresponding pair of leg slider joints. The link members are mounted on adjacent pairs of telescopic legs for providing a scissors connector. Finally, a plurality of canopy support arms, each including a locking pivotal connector and each fixedly connected to a top corner joint and a corresponding leg slider joint, is employed for raising and lowering the collapsible frame as a stable unitary structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventor: Roy Justin Price
  • Patent number: 6748962
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for providing a collapsible support structure strut, 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. The apparatus and method may also employ a holding plug, with first and second holding groove opposingly placed in the periphery of the holding plug, having at least a portion thereof that is shaped and sized to frictionally engage the inner surface of the tubular terminal end of the strut, to frictionally hold the holding plug in engagement with the strut. The detachable looped eyelet may also have at least two loops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventor: Stephen F. Miller
  • Publication number: 20030024562
    Abstract: A tent frame structure comprises an axis member and a plurality of brackets pivotally engaging with the axis member. Each bracket includes a first rod set, a second rod set pivotally engaging with the first rod set and a post means pivotally engaging with the second rod set. The post means is movable outwards to extend the first rod set, the second rod set and the post means for extending and stretching the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Lausan Chung-Hsin Liu
  • Patent number: 6499498
    Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided having at least two panels, with each of the panels having a flexible loop member defining a closed loop and adapted to assume an expanded position and a collapsed position, and a fabric for partially covering the loop member. The loop members of two adjacent first and second panels overlap each other at a first overlapping point along first edges of the loop members, and at a second overlapping point along second edges of the loop members, with the overlapping loop members defining a hinge portion about which the two loop members of the first and second panels are pivotable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Publication number: 20020153034
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for providing a collapsible support structure strut, 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. The apparatus and method may also employ a holding plug, with first and second holding groove opposingly placed in the periphery of the holding plug, having at least a portion thereof that is shaped and sized to frictionally engage the inner surface of the tubular terminal end of the strut, to frictionally hold the holding plug in engagement with the strut. The detachable looped eyelet may also have at least two loops.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventor: Stephen F. Miller
  • Patent number: 6453923
    Abstract: A collapsible structure has at least three foldable frame members, each having a folded and an unfolded orientation. The structure has a fabric material covering portions of each frame member to form a panel for each frame member, with each panel further including a left side, a bottom side and a right side, with the left side of each panel coupled to the right side of an adjacent panel, and the right side of each panel coupled to the left side of another adjacent pane. The bottom side of at least one panel is positioned at a higher vertical level than the bottom side of at least one other panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Publication number: 20020112753
    Abstract: A self-erecting structure includes a series of fabric panels each tautly spread by a length of steel wire or other resiliently flexible, filiform material. The steel wire may form a closed loop, an open loop or a mere arc. The wire is selectively inserted into at least two of several pockets or fabric straps positioned around the periphery of the panel. The selection of the wire-holding pockets or straps defines the shape of the spread-out panel. Parts of the fabric which are not encompassed by a wire are held folded over it and against the spread-out portion. The shape of the structure can be quickly modified by repositioning of the wires.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Publication date: August 22, 2002
    Inventor: Wai Hang Louie
  • Publication number: 20020083971
    Abstract: A collapsible vehicle storage system having a pair of spaced apart, tapered side walls, where the distance therebetween is sufficient to accommodate a vehicle. The respective sides walls pivotally mount plural U-shaped support members, with adjacent members hinged together, where the members are covered by a flexible canopy, such as canvas. At least one ratchet arm is provided to manually pivot the respective U-shaped members from an open position to a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2000
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventor: Jerry M. Blount
  • Patent number: 6360761
    Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided having at least four panels, including a bottom panel, a first panel, a second panel and a third panel. Each panel has a foldable frame member having a folded and an unfolded orientation, with a fabric material covering portions of the frame member to form the panel when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation. The fabric assumes the unfolded orientation of the frame member. Each panel further includes a first side and a second side, with the first side of one panel coupled to the second side of an adjacent panel, and with the bottom panel resting on the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 6343441
    Abstract: In a roof construction (10) with several erected support arches carrying a tentered roof skin (15), both ends of which support arches are held with a fixed distance to one another in the carrying state, each support arch (11)is constituted by several sections (12; 12a, 12b) each connected to one another via joints (13), where a lock is assigned to each joint (13), which limits the unfolding of neighboring sections (12a, 12b) to about their straightened position. In the carrying state of the support arch (11) all its joints (13) are bridged underneath by tensioned pulling connections (16), which engage on both sides of the bridged joint (13) on a section (12a, 12b). Furthermore, in the region of each joint (13)a spacer (19)is provided acting between the support arch (11) and the corresponding pulling connection (16), which spacer (19) directs the pulling connection inwards past the connecting line defined by the two points (18a, 18b) of engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Assignee: Merz Saulter Zimmermann GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Günter Merz, Sabine Sauter
  • Patent number: 6325086
    Abstract: A collapsible fabric structure is described having two wall members, each having a coilable frame. When the structure is expanded, each frame forms a loop defining a pair of opposed sides. To collapse the wall members, each frame is coiled into three loops. To exert a separating force between the two wall members, an elongate arch forming member is provided having a pair of free ends, each connected to one of the wall members. The arch forming member is preferably a glass reinforced epoxy rod having helically wound fiber at its surface. The surface may take the form of a pyramid, cube or playhouse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Worlds Apart Limited
    Inventors: Neil T. Shinner, Raymond Smith
  • Patent number: 6283136
    Abstract: A collapsible tent comprises top connecting means at the top of the tent; a plurality of upright legs; a slider slideably received on each upright leg; upper roof support bars pivotally connected to the top connecting means; lower roof support bars which each are connected at one end to its respective upper roof support bar and at the other end to a top of its respective upright leg; stay bars which each are connected at one end to its respective lower roof support bar and at the other end to the slider; a parallel bar assembly interconnecting adjacent ones of the upright legs, stay bars for supporting the lower support bars, each stay pivotally connected at one end to the upper part of its respective lower roof support bar and at the other end to the slider; stay bars for supporting the parallel bar assembly, each stay bar pivotally connected at one end to its respective parallel bar assembly and at the other end to the slider ; and stop means for maintaining the slider in position to maintain the tent in an
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Inventor: Fengchun Chen
  • Patent number: 6216717
    Abstract: A collapsible tent frame is disclosed. The collapsible tent frame includes a polygonal framework having a plurality of joints arranged at corners thereof and a plurality of rail pole assemblies interconnecting the joints respectively, at least three leg pole assemblies extending downward from the joints of the polygonal framework and a roof framework having a plurality of rafter pole assemblies connected to the joints of the polygonal framework. The pole assemblies can be shortened when the collapsible tent frame is to be collapsed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Sing Sing Fibers Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jing-Cai Chen
  • Patent number: 6192910
    Abstract: The collapsible shelter has a canopy that can be raised above the upper level of the leg assembly in an extended configuration. A perimeter truss linkage assembly connected to the leg assembly, and two or more central truss pairs of link members are provided, with each of the central truss pairs connected to the inner ends of one of the perimeter truss pairs on a side. At least one vertically oriented central support members for supporting the canopy above the upper level of the leg assembly is provided, and preferably three central support members are provided, including at least one vertically oriented inner central support member, and at least two peripheral central support members. The central support members comprise upper and lower telescoping sections, with the upper telescoping section having an upper end for supporting the canopy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 6138701
    Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided having at least two panels, with each of the panels having a flexible loop member defining a closed loop and adapted to assume an expanded position and a collapsed position, a fabric for partially covering the loop member, with the loop member substantially supporting the fabric in particular areas so that the fabric assumes the particular configuration of the loop member when in the expanded position of the loop member. The loop members of two adjacent first and second panels overlap each other at a first overlapping point along first edges of the loop members, and at a second overlapping point along second edges of the loop members, with the overlapping loop members defining a hinge portion about which the two loop members of the first and second panels are pivotable. The structure may include a third loop member having one side which is hingedly connected to one side of the first panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 6041800
    Abstract: The collapsible shelter has a canopy that can be raised above the upper level of the leg assembly in an extended configuration. A perimeter truss linkage assembly connected to the leg assembly, and two or more central truss pairs of link members are provided, with each of the central truss pairs connected to the inner ends of one of the perimeter truss pairs on a side. At least one vertically oriented central support member for supporting the canopy above the upper level of the leg assembly is provided, and preferably three central support members are provided, including at least one vertically oriented inner central support member, and at least two peripheral central support members. The central support members comprise upper and lower telescoping sections, with the upper telescoping section having an upper end for supporting the canopy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 6006772
    Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided for storing objects. These collapsible structures can be easily and quickly folded and collapsed into a compact configuration. The collapsible structures have at least three foldable frame members, each having a folded and an unfolded orientation. A fabric material substantially covers each frame member to form a panel for each frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation, with the fabric assuming the unfolded orientation of its associated frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 5975101
    Abstract: A collapsible structure is provided that includes at least a first panel, a second panel and a third panel. Each panel includes a flexible loop member that is adapted to assume an expanded position and a collapsed position, and a fabric for substantially covering the loop member. The loop members of the first and second panels overlap each other at a first overlapping point along the upper edges of the loop members of the first and second panels, and at a second overlapping point along the bottom edges of the loop members of the first and second panels, with the overlapping loop members defining a hinge portion about which the first and second loop members of the first and second panels are pivotable. One side of the third panel is hingedly connected to either the left side or the right side of the first panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 5944040
    Abstract: A collapsible tent frame is disclosed. The tent frame has a center pole used for stretching and sustaining a tent's roof when pitching a tent. A plurality of side poles are coupled to each other through a plurality of scissor-type ribs, with upper ends of the ribs being hinged to connectors provided at top ends of the side poles and lower ends of the ribs being hinged to sliders movably fitted over the side poles. The center pole is coupled to the connectors of the side poles through a plurality of center pole ribs. The above center pole ribs individually consist of two rib members, which are coupled to each other through a hinge joint. Each of the center pole ribs is also hinged to the slider of an associated side pole through a support link, thus being collapsible at the hinge joint in accordance with a sliding motion of the slider along the side pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Inventor: Jung-Woo Jang
  • Patent number: 5816279
    Abstract: A collapsible play structure comprises one or more play modules connected together, each play module comprising at least three foldable frame members, each having a folded and an unfolded orientation. A fabric material substantially covers each frame member to form a side panel for each frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation. Each side panel further comprises at least three sides. The left side of each side panel is connected and hinged to the right side of an adjacent side panel, and the right side of each side panel is connected and hinged to the left side of another adjacent side panel. The bottom side of each side panel is adapted to rest on a supporting surface to support the play module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 5771639
    Abstract: A shelter (1) comprising an array of substantially rigid panels (2, 3, 4) hingedly joined together, the arrangement being such that a central polygonal roof panel (2) is surrounded by a number of wall panels (3) equal in number to the sides of the polygon, each wall panel having an edge hingedly attached to an edge of the roof panel, and a tension element (20) being arranged to extend along the edges of the wall panels remote from the roof panel in such a way that by applying tension to the tension element, adjacent edges of respective wall panels can be brought together to form a three-dimensional structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Inventors: Marcus Bennett Wood, Wendy Margaret Wood
  • Patent number: 5664596
    Abstract: A collapsible play structure comprises one or more play modules connected together, each play module comprising at least three foldable frame members, each having a folded and an unfolded orientation. A fabric material substantially covers each frame member to form a side panel for each frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation. Each side panel further comprises at least three sides. The left side of each side panel is connected and hinged to the right side of an adjacent side panel, and the right side of each side panel is connected and hinged to the left side of another adjacent side panel. The bottom side of each side panel is adapted to rest on a supporting surface to support the play module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 5609177
    Abstract: A knock down beach cabana is compact enough to be carried by one person; stored in a car trunk and readily assembled and disassembled. Long tubes join together to form three U shaped frame elements that are held together by two rigid bases. A center frame element is held perpendicular to the base and two end frame elements extend upward at an angle to the center frame element. A top cover panel and two side cover panels attach to the frame. One end panel closes off one end of the cabana to form a floor in one position or for privacy in another position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Inventor: Morton Iver
  • Patent number: 5590674
    Abstract: A tent pole comprising first and elongated pole sections. One end portion of the first pole section has cavity and one end portion of the second pole section is receivable in the cavity. A coil spring extends over regions of the end portions of the outer surfaces of the first and second pole sections. The coil spring is coupled to the first and second pole sections so as to resiliently resist axial separation of the pole sections. The coil spring is sufficiently flexible so that the coil spring can be folded to allow the first and second pole sections to be in side-by-side relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Inventor: Lawrence C. Eppenbach
  • Patent number: 5579799
    Abstract: A collapsible shade structure includes a plurality of foldable frame members each having a folded and an unfolded orientation. A fabric material is provided for substantially covering the frame members to form a side panel for each frame member, each side panel assuming the unfolded orientation of its associated frame member. Interconnecting portions of the fabric material form a hinge portion between each frame member. Alternatively, frame retaining sleeve portions may be used to interconnect and retain two or more frame members from two or more adjacent side panels and to act as hinge portions. The structure may be folded and stored by folding the side panels and their corresponding frame members on top of each other about the hinge portions to have the side panels and frame members overlying each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Inventor: Yu Zheng