Abstract: A combined umbrella and canopy (10) that provides the advantages of both of these devices for providing maximum shade. The umbrella portion (12) is substantially similar to a standard beach umbrella having a vertical pole (16) with spokes or ribs (22, 24, 26, 28) extending radially outwardly adjacent the top (20) for supporting a fabric cover (30). The fabric cover (30) defines a front (32) and back (34) and at least two sides of the umbrella. The back (34) of the umbrella includes an additional length of fabric (36) that extends horizontally rearwardly and then curves downwardly and terminates in two spaced apart ends (38, 40). Each end includes a pocket (42, 44) that can be filled with sand to weigh the same down to maintain the ends on the beach. The additional fabric (36) is essentially a canopy (14). The umbrella structure (12) provides better support for the forward end of the canopy and prevents the same from collapsing when the wind conditions change.

Abstract: A convertible hammock-shade tent configurable as a shade tent and a hammock comprising (I) A plurality of tiers comprising a first tier and a second tier wherein (a) the second tier has a plurality of perimeter sleeves and (b) each tier has positioned thereon a plurality of apertures; (II) A plurality of vertically adjustable telescoping posts comprising a first, second, third, and fourth post wherein each (a) is attachable to the first and second tiers by an attachment device and (b) comprises a plurality of post segments, each with an upper and a lower end, comprised of at least a first post segment with a lower end configured for securing the post to the ground and attaching the post to the first tier and a second post segment positioned above the first post segment and configured for attaching the post to the second tier; (III) Wherein the tiers and posts can be configured for use as a shade tent wherein the first tier comprises the shade tent floor and the second tier comprises the shade tent canopy posi

Abstract: A tarp deploying apparatus includes radial arm with a proximal radial arm and a distal arm. The distal arm is formed from a flexible material such as a double-walled hydraulic hose. The distal arm attaches to a tarp roller to deploy the tarp over a storage area on a trailer with at least one rear door. The radial arm is mounted on a mounting bracket secured to one of the doors. A releasable connector between the arms permits the distal arm to be separated from the proximal arm so that the rear doors on the trailer can be opened and closed without interference from the radial arm.

Abstract: A portable ground blind having a plurality of pole-supported dual-mesh panels with openings formed along bottom sides of one or more of said panels, providing optimized concealment for the user, while also enhancing the user's ability to see and engage potential targets at multiple locations around the user. The dual-mesh panels include an outer mesh webbing and an inner mesh webbing, the outer mesh webbing having mesh openings of larger size than the mesh openings of the inner mesh webbing. Ghillie threads and/or other concealment enhancement objects are attachable on the outer mesh webbing, increasing the overall concealment of the user and allowing the user to customize the nature of concealment of the portable ground blind.

Abstract: A portable ground blind having a plurality of pole-supported dual-mesh panels with openings formed along bottom sides of one or more of said panels, providing optimized concealment for the user, while also enhancing the user's ability to see and engage potential targets at multiple locations around the user. The dual-mesh panels include an outer mesh webbing and an inner mesh webbing, the outer mesh webbing having mesh openings of larger size than the mesh openings of the inner mesh webbing. Ghillie threads and/or other concealment enhancement objects are attachable on the outer mesh webbing, increasing the overall concealment of the user and allowing the user to customize the nature of concealment of the portable ground blind.

Abstract: Provided is a sound device having a membrane attached between a case and an electro-acoustic transducer using an adhesive foam tape, thereby enabling the prevention of a deterioration of vibration amplitude-related properties of the membrane, and the prevention of a distortion of sound that is being delivered. The sound device includes: a waterproof air-permeable membrane permeating gas entering and exiting an electro-acoustic transducer disposed inside the sound-transmitting hole and blocking the inflow of water; and a first adhesive foam tape having one side adhered to the membrane and the other side adhered to the case to adhere an edge of the membrane to a periphery of the sound-transmitting hole of the case. The first adhesive foam tape is provided with a plurality of pores formed on adhesive surfaces of the one side and the other side respectively bonded to the membrane and the case and filled with an adhesive material.

Abstract: Self-contained mobile solar-powered escalator systems for aircraft entry comprising a security canopy and safety walls for protection, an electric cargo vehicle, an escalator, a lift system, exiting platform, leveler/stabilizers, heavy duty front and rear suspension, formal arriving platform, handrails, repair compartments, expandable waterproof and bulletproof canopy, distance light indicator, inflatable rubber bumper, and emergency brakes.

Abstract: Foldable tubular construct/element with one rigid degree of freedom is of a tubular construction formed by a number of single layered annular units which are connected in sequence; each single layered annular unit is of a prism having N ridge lines; two adjacent prisms each having N sides are connected to each other by sharing a polygon with N sides formed on an intersection plane; each prism with N ridge lines is composed of N rigid planar quadrilateral facets; two adjacent single layered annular units comprise N spherical mechanisms formed by the intersections of only four planar quadrilateral facets at each apex, where N is a number greater than 3.

Abstract: A portable pit-type hunting blind of thermoplastic exterior which can be carried and placed into a dug hole, providing a securable preserved cavity of variable depth, and rotatable seat proximate to the earth's surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sensory deprivation booth foldable between a folded transport position and an unfolded usage position forming a closed space for receiving a user to perform a sensory analysis; the booth comprising: walls, each wall being airtight or suitable for filtering the flow of air passing through the wall; airtight articulations and closing devices, positioned at the joint of the walls and connecting the walls in an airtight manner in the unfolded usage position of the booth, the folded joints allowing superposition of the walls on one another in the transport position of the booth.

Abstract: A dome structure that is comparable to a 3V geodesic dome, but only requires two strut lengths. Therefore, it can be fabricated by producing just one triangular frame, 52 times. The 52 triangle frames fasten directly to each other with simple fasteners. No hubs, or special brackets are required. Furthermore, the footprint of the dome easily fits to a square support, and is even on both axes. In the case where hubs and/or brackets are used to connect struts, the variation in the angles by which the struts extend from the hubs is also reduced to just two.

Abstract: A grid structure formed from a plurality of building blocks, the grid structure comprising: a plurality of flat panels, wherein two of the plurality of flat panels are paired in parallel to have one of the two parallel flat panels provide an inner surface to one building block from the plurality of building blocks and the other of the two parallel flat panels provide an inner surface to another building block from the plurality of building blocks, wherein within each of the plurality of building blocks, the inner surfaces of any two adjacent panels lie on planes intersecting along a straight line that passes through an inner corner of the building block.

Abstract: Vegetation-containing hunting blind includes a vegetation-shielding/offering member. Inside the member vegetation can be grown.

Abstract: A shelter system includes a substantially cylindrical flexible cover, and two water vessels such as canoes, kayaks or the like. The vessels are positioned along opposite walls inside the flexible cover, with the vessels and flexible covers secured so as to retain the flexible cover in a taut, oblong position. A user may use the habitat established therein as they would normally use a tent. The system may include features such as rain flaps, bug netting flaps, and flap securing means.

Abstract: A modified A-frame tent or tarp shelter in which the fly or outer canopy is supported by two upright poles spaced apart on either side of a rectangular footprint. The poles are oppositely offset from the midpoint of the footprint on their respective sides, such that the canopy ridgeline between the poles crosses the footprint diagonally. Two corners of the canopy corresponding to corners of the footprint farthest from their respective (same-side) poles are raised and tensioned by short struts that, in cooperation with the offset poles, create a sidewall effect across the ends of the canopy over the head and foot ends of the footprint. The canopy may further include vestibule portions extending to the sides of the footprint, and the struts may also engage the vestibule portions at their respective corners.

Abstract: (FIG. 11) (ART-8) This sketched drawing show the Weather Dome in one form of its intended use. This drawing shows one three sided dome. Wind tunnel attached, vents closed, and tether ropes fastened on the wind side. Curtains and screens attached with screens closed, vents on the downwind side are open and tether rope fastened. The Weather Dome and a tent secured under the dome are assembled upon a raised ground cover. The windsock is provided to indicate wind direction. (FIG. 9, 10A, 10B) The (ART-7, 8) these drawings present the embodiment of possible usage an achievable assembled form.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a self supporting tensile tent structure and methods for use of such a structure. According to one embodiment, structure includes six component panels positioned above ground surface: a roof, a bathtub bottom positioned below the roof component, a pair of side panels and front and back panels all vertically oriented and attached to the roof by a top edge and further attached to the bathtub bottom by a bottom edge; a pair of reinforced corners at the end of the tensile tent anchors structure to the ground surface; a supporting member to create loft for the tensile tent toward the front of the structure by elevating the roof component above the ground surface; a second pair of reinforced corners anchors the front of the tensile tent to the ground surface and induces tension to the roof when erected. Other related embodiments are described.

Abstract: A protective shelter offering opposite outer supports and a roof structure extending between the supports, wherein the roof structure comprises a plurality of tray members arranged to receive earth, sand or aggregate material defining an inner skin to provide a first level of protection in the roof structure, and the tray members are arranged to be supported by transverse beams, wherein the transverse beams are arranged to be supported at their respective ends by the opposite outer supports and wherein the transverse beams form a transverse beam bridge across the shelter such that the height of the shelter centrally, and away from the opposite supports is substantially the same as the height of said supports.

Abstract: Portable devices comprising means for mounting an adjustable shade in a location for shielding one or more users from the environment are provided herein.

Abstract: The Elevated Habitable Module is primarily an enclosed living space that folds to a very small size and deploys to a tall and large elevated living quarters. It is designed to be readily transported and erected by utilizing a light weight design that unfolds easily and is uncomplicated to assemble. The floor is secure from ground animals and people by elevating it off of ground level. The design also ensures important basic living features, such as electricity which is often not initially available on site in remote locations, and a method of collecting rain water along with filtration so it can be used for drinking or sanitation purposes. The supporting structure is suitable for a variety of places, including flat surfaces or rugged terrain.

Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment, a system for storing commodities is provided. The system may include a tarpaulin. The tarpaulin may further have an internal strapping. In accordance with one embodiment, a method for storing commodities is provided. The method may include providing a tarpaulin. In one embodiment, the method for storing commodities may include configuring the tarpaulin to provide internal strapping.

Abstract: A protective shelter that provides protection within a war zone and which can be readily assembled in a quick, secure and reliable manner. The shelter is formed of opposite outer walls and a roof structure extending therebetween, wherein the roof structure comprises a plurality of tray members supported by beam supports and in which the plurality of tray members is arranged to receive earth, sand or aggregate material so as to provide a first layer of protection via the roof structure. The tray members can be supported by beams serving to define a shallow arch across the shelter such that the internal height of the shelter centrally, and away from the opposite walls, is greater than the height of the said walls.

Abstract: The secure modular shelter apparatus can be used to shelter those at bus stops, on campuses, using ATM's, waiting for trains, making calls, smoking, and for a host of other uses. Importantly, the apparatus is self-contained and can be placed as chosen, by a forklift for example, and either connected to existing power as an alternative energy source or used as is while providing its own power. Security may be guaranteed by entry only allowed by card or other secure personal identification means known in the art. Radiant assisted heating and cooling are provided. Information readout is provided by a lighted panel that may also feature scrolling schedule lights. A panic button and receiver/transmitter are also provided so that emergency communication with professionals is possible when needed. Audio and auxiliary lighting are provided for those with sight and hearing hardships. Automatic interior climate controls provide for thermostatically controlled comfort.

Abstract: A batting or ball practice cage has one or more frame members with a net attached over the frame. Frame members may be assembled having springs or elbows at the corner. A pitching machine may be aligned with the cage at one end.

Abstract: A shelter including panels of a first configuration secured to each other, the panels of the first configuration including a square main panel section, a fold-line extending from one corner to an opposite corner of the square main panel section allowing the square main panel section to fold along the fold-line, and a hinged flap extending from each edge of the square main panel section, each hinged flap secured to a hinged flap of an adjacent panel.

Abstract: A seal for vent openings of inflatable structures is provided that includes an interior and an exterior component that can be affixed to each other and to the inflatable structure and allows for higher pressures to be maintained within the inflatable structure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an outdoor shelter, such as a hunting blind consisting of a rectangular structure with roof and floor. The outer surface is coated with a spray closed cell foam insulation material, such as spray polyurethane. The foam is coated with a waterproof flexible membrane, such as a waterproof flexible latex paint.

Abstract: A containment system comprising a rigid support panel separating a treatment area from a work area, the rigid support panel having an access aperture within which a spherical orb is rotatably and pivotably supported. The spherical orb has a port for accommodating a surface treatment equipment and the spherical orb has a viewing aperture to facilitate viewing of a surface of an object to be treated during surface treatment. The rigid support panel is used in combination with one of a rigid structure and flexible barrier to prevent any blasting media, contaminants and debris from escaping a treatment area. A transparent window seals the viewing aperture and separates an operator from a treatment area accommodating the object to be treated. The flexible barrier is translucent to permit exterior light to pass therethrough and illuminate the object to be treated.

Abstract: A system for improved exterior shading devices of highly adaptable configurations. The system comprises several cantilever shade structures usable in the shading of land vehicles.

Abstract: A protective shelter that can be used to provide protection within a war zone, and which can be readily assembled in a quick, secure and reliable manner. The shelter is formed of opposite outer walls and a roof structure extending therebetween, wherein the roof structure comprises a plurality of tray members supported by beam supports and in which the plurality of tray members is arranged to receive earth, sand or aggregate material so as to provide a first layer of protection via the roof structure. The tray members can be supported by beams serving to define a shallow arch across the shelter such that the internal height of the shelter centrally, and away from the opposite walls, which is greater than the height of the said walls.

Abstract: A suspendable structure is disclosed. The structure uses a floor panel structure that includes three flexible straps that cross one another, each of the straps including a first end and a second end, the first end having a connector that allows it to be attached to a tensioning device. A triangular flexible panel having three sides and corners where the sides of the triangle meet (at the vertices of the triangle) is in turn supported and stiffened through the flexible straps, each of which extends from one of the corners of the triangular flexible panel and terminating at or near the midpoint of the included side opposite to the corner.

Abstract: A wind and sand barrier for shielding beach-goers and the like. The barrier comprises an elongated panel of flexible material that is supported a plurality of stakes extending through sleeves on the panel and then into the ground. Each stake is topped by an inverted dish-shaped handle to facilitate pushing the stakes into the ground with the user's hand. A plurality of slits are cut into the panel to define flaps for relieving wind pressure against the panel.

Abstract: An outdoor canopy includes a canopy frame, a canopy shelter and a side entrance arrangement. The canopy frame includes a roof frame and a legs frame downwardly extended from the roof frame to form a canopy area. The canopy shelter, which is made of waterproof fabric, is detachably fastening at the canopy frame to define a ceiling wall, a front wall, a rear wall and two sidewalls for enclosing the canopy area therewithin. The side entrance arrangement is formed on one of the sidewalls of the canopy shelter for a user to gain entry to and exit the canopy area without having to pass through the front entrance, wherein the side entrance arrangement contains a side entrance opening formed on the corresponding sidewall of the canopy shelter, and comprise at least one entrance fabric operatively mounted on the corresponding sidewall.

Abstract: The present invention is a beach cabana that provides a central corridor between two lounge portions and a frame rotatable about an axis.

Abstract: A work cubicle cover is described, designed to be positioned between one or more light fixtures providing room lighting in a human work space defined by a cubicle in the room. The cover is made up of a pliable sheet of mesh screen held in position over the work cubicle by the interaction of a spring wire construction which provides its support with the partitions defining individual cubicles in the room. The spring wire construction enables the work cubicle cover to be coiled when not in use.

Abstract: A fluid-tight slide fastener (10) comprising tapes (12) with an inner textile layer (14) and a fluid barrier layer (16), teeth elements (21) and a slider (22), wherein said textile layer (14) is made with a spun yarn of cut fibers. Preferred materials are also disclosed for the textile layer, the fluid barrier layer and the teeth, including PE for textile layer, TPE-E or TPE-U for the fluid-barrier layer and PBT, ABS, polyamide (PA) and their blends or copolymers for the teeth. A process for making slide fasteners is also disclosed, wherein strips of a spun yarn textile material are coated by extrusion or lamination of a melted fluid-barrier material.

Abstract: An umbrella comprises a vertical support member and a plurality of ribs operatively associated with the vertical support member and extending generally radially outward from a central location. The umbrella further includes a plurality of elongated, laterally flexible members, one of the flexible members being operatively associated with each of the plurality of ribs and extending outward therefrom. A canopy is supported by the plurality of ribs and has a periphery extending beyond the ribs. Receptacles are disposed on the inner surface of the canopy at points proximate the periphery of the canopy and in substantial alignment with a corresponding rib. The outer end of each flexible member engages a corresponding one of the receptacles. The canopy and the flexible members are configured such that the canopy exerts a tension on the flexible member that causes it to flex inward and downward.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a panel (20) for use in the assembly of a modular hot work habitat (10) so as to form an enclosure to facilitate hot working. The panels (20) comprise a first layer of flexible structural material (22), and a second layer of flexible fireproof material (24) fixed to the structural layer. A habitat (10) comprising a plurality of interconnected panels (20) is described.

Abstract: A self-adjusting watercraft canopy/cover assembly having a protective cover and a floating watercraft lift. The lift includes a watercraft lifting support and a float attached to the watercraft lifting support for supporting the watercraft lifting support on a body of water. The float is movable to selectively lift and lower the watercraft lifting support relative to the body of water along a first path of movement. The lift further includes an assembly which causes the protective cover to move along a second path of movement different from the first path in response to movement of the float.

Abstract: A readily burstable slide fastener 1 for an inflatable device, such as a lifejacket 101?, comprises a first stringer 3, a second stringer 5 and a slider 19 slidably mounted on the second stringer 5. At a weakened region 23 along the slide fastener 1 coupling elements 15 are omitted from each of the stringers 3, 5 so that when a bursting force is applied to this region 23 the coupling elements 15 adjacent thereto are disengaged. Coupling elements 15 are omitted from the top of the first stringer 3 so that when the slider 19 is at the top of the coupling elements 15 of the second stringer 5, the first stringer 3 can disengage from the slider 19. When the slide fastener 1 is fitted to an inflatable lifejacket 101?, the stringers 3, 5 are separated completely when the lifejacket 101? is inflated.

Abstract: The present invention is a lightweight tent having a sloping roof that overhangs the door and preferably the base of the tent as well at one or both ends. This latter slope allows the tent to be erected using a single supporting member, and provides good ventilation while simultaneously providing good protection from the elements. The lightweight tent is constructed from a waterproof canopy having generally trapezoidal sides joined to a floor that preferably tapers from the front to the rear. Its roof slopes downward from the front to the rear, with at least its front side edges tilting toward the ridgeline at an angle less than ninety degrees.

Abstract: A folding windscreen having two panels can be made entirely from a single sheet of corrugated plastic. The windscreen is used to prevent wind-blown snow from clogging an ice-fishing hole and to enhance the visibility of ice fishing traps against a background shoreline or expanse of open ice. The single sheet of corrugated plastic material is made into two panels by folding it in half. The fold produces a flexible hinge connecting the two panels. The top and bottom edges of the windscreen panels are reinforced by folding parts of the corrugated sheet to make double thickness, and bonding the two thicknesses together with heat welding or adhesives. Hand-holes are provided for convenient carrying and deploying. Fluorescent or retro-reflective tape can be applied to the folding windscreen to enhance its visibility.

Abstract: A protective shelter that can be used to provide protection within a war zone, and which can be readily assembled in a quick, secure and reliable manner. The shelter is formed of opposite outer walls and a roof structure extending therebetween, wherein the roof structure comprises a plurality of tray members supported by beam supports and in which the plurality of tray members is arranged to receive earth, sand or aggregate material so as to provide a first layer of protection via the roof structure. The tray members can be supported by beams serving to define a shallow arch across the shelter such that the internal height of the shelter centrally, and away from the opposite walls, which is greater than the height of the said walls.

Abstract: There is proposed a preferably transportable (mobile) and/or re-usable production facility, as is quick and easy to erect virtually at any location in this world. This production facility virtually comprises a tent structure, wherein the roof of the facility is held by at least one carrier (support) and at the same time at least one device for raising or lowering or moving goods or parts thereof, for example crane structures, is also provided on the carrier itself. Such a crane structure can be of a variable configuration and in particular the production of goods which are heavy and/or which for assembly can no longer be raised or moved by human strength.

Abstract: A portable enclosure, easily erectable and collapsible, to provide environment control and prevent contaminants from being released from the enclosure. The enclosure provides a flexible envelope attached to the interior of the space defined by vertical and horizontal supports which can be erected and collapsed. When erected the enclosure functions as an anteroom and has removable panels in the sides and top. In use, the enclosure is sealed against a vertical or horizontal surface to be worked on and a panel from the side of the enclosure is opened and closed to provide access to the surface by the user. When collapsed the enclosure is a package approximately the size of an average golf club bag which is easily portable to another location. Ducting is provided to which negative pressure pumps are connected to maintain negative pressure within the enclosure and draw contaminants into the pump and then into a closed container.

Abstract: A retractable top assembly for a vehicle, commonly referred to as a bimini top, includes a covering mounted on a pair of struts which are movable relative to one another to move the covering between a deployed position covering at least a portion of the vehicle and a retracted position. In the retracted position, the covering is wound upon a spindle rotatably mounted within a housing mounted on one of the struts. The housing has a slot through which the covering extends, so that the covering is attached to the other strut. A torsion spring within the housing biases the spindle in a direction winding the covering onto the spindle and thereby maintaining tautness of the covering as it unwinds from the spindle and is moved into the deployed position.

Abstract: A relief package for deployment from a stowed, portable configuration to a deployed shelter configuration. The relief package includes an outer shell having a first pouch and a second pouch. A supply kit is positioned within the first pouch, and a relief pod is positioned within the second pouch. The relief pod includes a foldable base, a cover, and a plurality of support poles that can be assembled to define an enclosure.

Abstract: A lightweight, collapsible pet house includes a lower frame which supports a raised pet supporting floor and an upper frame cooperable with the lower frame and removable with respect thereto which supports a cover forming the roof and walls over the floor of the pet house. The lower frame and pet supporting floor can be used alone as a pet cot. The pet supporting floor is preferably made of a mesh material to promote air circulation around an animal resting on the floor and a vent in the roof and an entrance to the house promote air circulation through the house. The frames are advantageously made of PVC piping and connectors for the piping so can be easily assembled and disassembled so the house can be easily transported and stored and the floor and cover easily cleaned.

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.

Abstract: A portable pre-fabricated sports and hunting shed includes a substantially solid rectangular structure having an integral projecting element attachable to any standard trailer hitch and, at an opposite longitudinal end thereof, a pair of wheels, an adjoining axle, and means for journaling the axle, which means is attached to a base of the shed to thereby provide a rear wheel means by which the sports shed may be towed by a vehicle to which the trailer hitch is attached. Alternatively, the portable, prefabricated hunter's blind may be placed within a pickup truck to be hauled thereby. A four-wheel, off-road vehicle is placed within the portable shooting shed and over four disassembled legs of the assembly and other elements associated with the shed. By positioning the four-wheel off-road vehicle on top of all elements of the shed, the undesirable movement of the parts of the pre-fabricated structure during hauling is minimized.