Shelter Suspended From Diverse Support Means Patents (Class 135/90)
  • Patent number: 7353769
    Abstract: The cantilever cover is suspended from one side over an article to be protected from the elements. The cover has a canopy frame and flexible, weatherproof canopy or cover secured thereover. A pair of canopy frame support arms extends from corresponding closed sleeves, which ride up and down upon the vertical support columns of a hoist assembly. Each sleeve includes a pair of diagonally opposed rollers, which bear against opposite sides of its respective column. A single winch (electric, hydraulic, pneumatic, etc.) is mounted centrally upon an upper crossmember extending between the two columns, with opposed equal length cables extending to the two canopy frame support sleeves. A remote control extends down the hoist frame from the winch, for operation of the device. One or more limit switches may be installed to limit the maximum or minimum travel of the canopy frame and cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Inventors: Robert E. Unrast, Leonard R. Holdheide
  • Publication number: 20080041431
    Abstract: A sunshade includes a supporting rod, a holding sleeve pivotably mounted to an upper end of the supporting rod, an arcuate tube slidably extended through the holding sleeve and including an end for coupling with a canopy support frame, a reel mounted to the other end of the arcuate tube, a mounting member mounted to the supporting rod, a quick release mounted around the other end of the arcuate tube, and a connecting rod including a first end pivotally connected to the mounting member and a second end pivotally connected to the quick release. When the quick release is in a clamping position, the quick release is fixedly clamped on the arcuate tube and the other end of the arcuate tube is supported by the connecting rod. When the quick release is in a released position, relative sliding movement between the quick release and the arcuate tube is allowed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Pai Tung
  • Publication number: 20070283991
    Abstract: A collapsible device including at least one retraction device, at least one collapsible compression frame having compression members, at least one tension member having at least one end connected to the at least one retraction device and running through a channel in each of the compression members and a flexible barrier attached to the at least one compression frame. The barrier having at least one channel through which the at least one compression frame passes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Inventor: Charles Sherts
  • Patent number: 7290552
    Abstract: A portable awning comprising a flexible shading element, an attachment strap for anchoring the shading element to an existing vertical support structure, and poles for maintaining the shading element at a vertically elevated position with respect to the surface of the ground. The shading element is constructed from a waterproof material such as canvas or nylon and substantially protects a user from overexposure to inclement environmental conditions, including direct sunlight, wind, rain, and snow. The poles and the attachment strap are easily disengaged from the shading element, and the shading element is foldable, thereby providing a portable awning which is easily disassembled in order that it be transported between locations or stored between successive uses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Inventor: Arno Eisbrenner
  • Patent number: 7264011
    Abstract: An assembly having an umbrella and a mounting bracket for mounting the umbrella to a vertical object. The mounting bracket engages the top of the umbrella, thereby suspending the umbrella from a position above the umbrella. The umbrella has a finial cap at the top of the umbrella. Part of the finial cap extends out above the canopy of the umbrella. This portion of the finial cap is selectively received by the shaped head of the mounting bracket. The finial cap is annular and defines a central opening through which the support post of the umbrella can pass. When the umbrella is opened, the support post extends out through the finial cap above the canopy. The result is a mounting umbrella with nothing protruding below the umbrella.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Inventor: Warren Cohen
  • Patent number: 7246630
    Abstract: A preassembled, collapsible tree stand hunting blind which folds into a compact package, utilizing coilable steel frame members which may be collapsed. The enclosure is adapted to be attached to the trunk of the tree and to an associated platform, such as a hunter's tree stand. The enclosure is provided with camouflage elements to render the user relatively invisible to game in the surrounding environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventors: Robert M. Ransom, Scott D. Wehner, Ryan L. Kubica
  • Publication number: 20070144570
    Abstract: A blind for concealing an individual includes an annular support, a curtain, a first securing means, and a second securing means. The curtain is suspended from the support for surrounding the individual. The first securing means secures a rear of the support to an upright object, and the second securing means secures a front of the support to the upright object at a height higher than the first securing means such that the support is suspended from the upright object in a generally horizontal position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Publication date: June 28, 2007
    Inventor: Daniel Earl Cooper
  • Patent number: 7219680
    Abstract: A backpackable, collapsible blind designed to be mounted against a tree for use by hunters and others. The blind has a backpack-capable frame with canopy support arms that are collapsible against the frame for use as a backpack, a removable canopy, and a seat on a lower part of the frame that can be used to support a backpack load. The support arms define a unique upper/lower support structure for the canopy relative to the seat, with the canopy having a generally triangular opening located above the seat and a lower end or hem that hangs below the seat and the lower end of the frame for a baseless, open-bottomed blind that is useful for nearly any hunting situation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Inventor: Alex S. Gresock
  • Patent number: 7194976
    Abstract: A boat cover system for covering a boat. The boat cover system is attached to an existing structure and includes a track assembly, a roller assembly, and a cover. The track assembly includes at least one section of track and a coupling assembly for attaching the track assembly to the existing structure. The roller assembly is slidingly coupled to the track and includes a pulley system that moves the cover from a first position to a second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Inventor: Timothy A. Kramer
  • Patent number: 7182091
    Abstract: A hunting blind and method of use thereof, comprising a cylindrical mount having a tube disposed therethrough. The cylindrical mount attaches to a tree or other suitable object via straps, bungee cords and/or a hook. The tube comprises angled holes into which support tubes supporting screen panels are inserted. The support tubes are sectioned so as to enable disassembly for packing into a compact arrangement by rolling up same within the screen panels. The screen panels have extensions that can be secured together via cords. Alternate embodiments are directed to the addition of a mesh panel above the screen panels and extensions; a ground-based stand, wherein the screen panels and extension are secured to the ground via tent stakes; and a wheelchair stand, wherein a framework on the wheelchair carries the support tubes, panels and extensions of the preferred embodiment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventor: Clarence Lee Maddox
  • Patent number: 7137398
    Abstract: The present invention is a device formed of waterproof or water-resistant fabric having a central section comprising a top, front and bottom, to which is joined side portions, thereby providing coverage for slipping over a tree-mounted hunting stand, including preferably both standing and seating portions thereof. The cover is pulled proximate the surface of the tree to which the stand is mounted, and extensions at the top and bottom of the cover provide an interface that prevents the incursion of water. The cover is then held in place via suitable attachment means, such as, for exemplary purposes only, bungee cords, wherein the hook ends of the bungee cords connect with apertures in the top and bottom extensions of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Inventor: Frady George
  • Patent number: 7100626
    Abstract: An easy to use, simple, lightweight, compact, portable system of concealment and methods for its construction and use. The concealment system comprises a support and a curtain. The support attaches to a structure and pivots on the attachment. Various embodiments include multiple supports and multiple curtains. A method of hiding in front of a similar pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Evrio, Inc.
    Inventor: John Livacich
  • Patent number: 6895886
    Abstract: A skirt for a boat hoist is provided to enclose a boat on the hoist. The skirt includes a plurality of panels adapted to be hung from the canopy frame of the hoist. One of the panels is a door panel which can be raised and lowered to provide access to the boat. Another panel is a rear panel extending across the rear end of the hoist and being moveable between raised and lowered positions to allow entry and exit of the boat to and from hoist. The door and rear panels are moveable independently of the side and front panels. The panels are weighted and may have wind vents to prevent blowing the panels in the wind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Inventors: Richard F. Pawlowski, Todd R. Pawlowski
  • Patent number: 6865852
    Abstract: A device for protection of property against high winds comprising a flexible material of predetermined strength and stretch characteristics, and in the form of a panel or several panels, utilized to protect the side of a structure including its windows and doors from the strong winds and debris impacts occurring during a hurricane. The device is anchored in a manner to space it out from the area being protected according to formula provided, and can safely dissipate substantial impacting energy. The preferred embodiment attaches to an overhanging eave and the ground below protecting in addition to the windows and doors, plantings, outdoor furniture, decorative shutters, downspouts, and such as are enclosed behind the barrier. Several methods of storage and deployment of said curtain are described including rolling, sliding, and converting to awning. The barrier has the added feature of acting as a tie down in certain applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Targus International, Inc.
    Inventor: Ted Gower
  • Patent number: 6857620
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for covering truck beds, rail cars, or other large objects with a tarp or related covering in which the tarp is held to the truck tarp loader by a fastening roller member comprised of: a vertical support member with first and second ends; a first horizontal member fixedly secured to the first end, forming an L shape; a second horizontal member fixedly secured to the second end, also forming an L shape; an axle, a pair of wheels, and a handle pivotally attached to the first horizontal member; a pair of tensioners between the vertical support member and the axle; and a fastening mechanism on the second horizontal member for attaching the fastening roller member to the truck tarp loader apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventor: Fred V. Payne
  • Patent number: 6840254
    Abstract: An enclosure of fabric with four vertical sides that is open at the top and bottom. A continuous sheath is sewn around the top edges of three sides. Three rods are inserted into the sheath from one end. The rods are not held to each other except by the sheath. A support person stands in front of the blind and holds the first and third rods apart and parallel to each other. The rods hang three respective sides of the blind directly. The fourth side hangs from the tension span between the two ends of the rod sequence. The fourth side has a flap at the bottom. The support person stands on this flap with his or her back to the wind. This prevents billowing and raising of the blind by the wind. An occupant can enter this blind before or after it is raised by the support person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Inventor: William Edward Windham
  • Patent number: 6823882
    Abstract: A tent assembly for providing an easily pitched and ventilated tent structure. The tent assembly includes a main portion that can be held in an expanded position using lines and loops on an exterior of the main portion. The ends are closable and screen assemblies are provided adjacent each end of the main portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Inventor: James Michael Innes
  • Patent number: 6789557
    Abstract: A portable and collapsible sunshade apparatus which can be conveniently folded up and carried in a bag so that the sunshade apparatus can be easily transported to the beach or other locations for attachment to a beach chair or lounge chair through use of a novel attachment clip. The universal clip enables any type of sunshade apparatus to be attached to any type of beach chair or lounge chair at any desired height above the occupant of the chair and at any desired angular orientation relative to the chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: Gene Wahl, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6786171
    Abstract: A boat cover includes a framework shaped to be attached to a plurality of pilings of a boat hoist beneath or above the boat hoist. A fabric boat cover has the framework and the sides thereof are lowered when a boat is hoisted thereunder. A boat cover raising and lowering mechanism raises and lowers the cover sides and has a rotatable shaft operatively rotated by a motor connected thereto and is located beneath the boat cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Inventor: Gary M. Elbers
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6729076
    Abstract: A support for an awning (10) comprises a plurality of inner members (28), each being pivotally connected to adjacent ones of the inner members (28). Support members (16), the are strengthened by braces (36) extend outwardly from the inner members (28). An awning material, such as shade cloth or canvas, is supported by the support members (16). The support is fixed to a wall (12) or a pole. The support can move between a retracted position in which the support members (16) lie adjacent to each other and an extend position in which distal ends of the support members are spaced from each other. The awning is compact when in the retracted position and aesthetically pleasing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth Ronald Gale
  • Patent number: 6688252
    Abstract: An apparatus for covering a boat that includes a canopy, a plurality of canopy supports, and one or more drivers. The canopy is sized to cover at least a portion of the boat, and includes a bottom edge and a peak. The plurality of canopy supports each have a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is movable relative to the second portion. The first portion is attached to the canopy and disposed vertically below the peak. The first portion of each canopy support is selectively extendable a distance between a first position and a second position. The one or more drivers are operable to drive the first portions of the canopy supports between the first position and the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: Gary Caravella
  • Patent number: 6672322
    Abstract: A screen assembly for storing wild game meat comprising: a mesh cylinder fabricated of mesh material and having an open upper end; and a top section fabricated of waterproof material and affixed over the upper end of the mesh cylinder, a locking clip having a cable extending therefrom and through the upper section, the cable being fixed relative to the upper section, the clip adapted to be coupled around a tree limb in an operative orientation, the cable having a lower end including a hook for hanging wild game meat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Mark H. Littlefield
  • Patent number: 6644329
    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: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: Wallace G Tomason
  • Patent number: 6631591
    Abstract: A carport is provided having a rigid, concave canopy composed of a rigid self-supporting material and which has a width and length larger than that of a standard size automobile. The carport further includes a supporting structure that is rigidly connected to and extends vertically from the canopy. The carport still further includes a horizontally extending longitudinally extending support member that is rigidly secured to the supporting structure and laterally spaced from the canopy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Inventor: Steven Durham
  • Patent number: 6591556
    Abstract: A canopy assembly for sheltering a drive-up ordering station of a fast food restaurant can pivot out of the way when impacted by a vehicle and return automatically to a centered position. A centering feature mounted to a column supporting a roof structure engages a pivotal coupler to bias the roof to a center position. This feature includes a pivot post assembly extending across the cavity and through a pair of helical slots in the coupler. When a leading end of the roof assembly is struck by a vehicle, the coupler is rotated and the pivot post engages the slots so that the coupler translates upward. The coupler is biased by gravity to a centered position in which the top ends of the slots rest on the pivot post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: The Howard Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul R. Bertheaume, Kenneth R. Bergmann, Maurice Michaud, Matt Dewey
  • Patent number: 6588440
    Abstract: A portable vertically mounted hunting blind which has two plates and straps forming a fastener which is attached to a tree trunk at any desired height by wrapping the straps around the tree trunk and connecting the straps under tension with a connecting means which maintains the tension. The plates have receptacles for the insertion of a holder, with the holder extending away from the tree trunk. A blind cover is attached to the holder and provides a user with complete camouflage as the user sits within the blind cover. The hunting blind is inexpensive, easy to manufacture, light weight, and easily transportable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Reuben L. Varnado
  • Patent number: 6588037
    Abstract: The present invention provides a portable support device adapted for being disassembled into segments for packing and being readily assembled. The support device in a first embodiment has a base block to which a pair of arms is assembled and to which a segmented pole is mounted in vertical orientation to support a mosquito net. In a second embodiment, an arm is assembled to a beam to define a horizontal plane and a segmented pole is assembled to the beam in a vertical orientation without use of a connecting block. In third and fourth embodiments, a pair of horizontal members are connected to each other and to a vertical support pole by a rigid connector. According to a third embodiment, a junction piece having two studs extending in a horizontal plane and a third stud in vertical orientation with an arm mounted to each of the horizontal studs and a pole mounted to the vertical stud to form a support apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Tropical Safety Research, Inc.
    Inventors: David Eno, Sunook Park, Il Han Moon
  • Publication number: 20030051749
    Abstract: A method and system for presenting merchandise on a paved surface which employs permanently installed anchors each having a vertical sleeve. Poles of common height are inserted within the sleeves of the anchors in a manner defining a three dimensional merchandising region. The tops of the poles are interconnected by tensioned cable assemblies from which informational signage is suspended and retained by lower disposed retainer tensioned cables. Merchandising bays are established between mutually adjacent poles and entrance and exit regions are established in conjunction with a shopper aisle. A canopy is supported by poles and anchors over a cash/wrap station at the exit region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: George Washington Baughman, William Anthony Dascenzo, Kristin Elizabeth Griffin, Larry L. Wood
  • 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: 20030024559
    Abstract: A tree stand cover includes a center fabric sheet with first and second side fabric sheets attached to opposite side edges of the center sheet. Inner surfaces of each sheet includes a blaze orange coloration for hunter safety and an outer surface having a camouflage coloration for hiding a mounted tree stand. Straps with buckles extend from free side edges of respective side fabric sheets for releasably coupling the tree stand cover to a tree or other upstanding support. The sheets may be positioned to surround and hide a tree stand already coupled to the tree. Drawstring assemblies connected to the side fabric sheets enable those sheets to be collapsed against the center fabric sheet for transport. Another drawstring assembly is connected to the center fabric sheet such that the tree stand cover may be tightened about the tree stand itself for simultaneous transport of the tree stand and cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Denver A. Fields
  • Patent number: 6510922
    Abstract: A stand for hunting or photography comprising: (a) a seat structure adapted to be removably positionable on a tree trunk and (b) a cover removably supportable by the seat structure in a manner effective for at least partially concealing a user when seated in the seat structure from front view, side view, back view, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Inventor: John Hodnett
  • Publication number: 20030010371
    Abstract: A portable, free-standing, pop-up seat enclosure for protecting its occupant includes:
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2001
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Langley
  • Patent number: 6499496
    Abstract: A portable shelter for a tree blind including an upper tree gripping bracket and a tension member extending from the upper tree gripping bracket and operatively connecting to an overhead frame. A vertical spacing member maintains a vertical distance between the upper tree gripping bracket and a lower tree gripping bracket. A compressive member extends between the vertical spacing member and the overhead frame and the compressive member is adjustable relative to the vertical member. A rain fly covers the overhead frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Inventor: Freddie W. Young
  • Patent number: 6497074
    Abstract: A lightweight building construction system comprising multiple similar stressed roof and wall paneling modules (22, 122) assembled together to form a modular building envelope. Each roof module (22, 122) typically includes a double-skin panel (1,4/101) having structurally interacting inner and outer layers (4,3/104,103) joined together at mid-span and stretched in a V-shaped configuration between spaced-apart structural elements (9, 109). A linear gutter (2) can hang from the double-skin panel (22) at the junction of the inner and outer layers (4,3) thereof to drain water, thereby preventing ponding problems. The stressed paneling modules (22) may be supported by lightweight non-rigid tensely arched members (15, 16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Assignee: Sunarc Structures Inc.
    Inventor: Richard C. Nelson
  • Publication number: 20020179132
    Abstract: A curtain is suspended by a hoop that is supported by retractable arms of which suction cups and/or hooks are attached. The entire curtain can be affixed to any smooth surface, such as that of a car door, or to structures such as fences, by way of the suction cups or hooks at the end of the retractable arms. The length of the curtain is such that it will provide needed privacy for one wishing to change clothes. The hoop and curtain are of flexible material to allow contraction and expansion for storage and use respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventor: John A. Gutierrez
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20020152665
    Abstract: A portable vertically mounted hunting blind which has two plates and straps forming a fastener which is attached to a tree trunk at any desired height by wrapping the straps around the tree trunk and connecting the straps under tension with a connecting means which maintains the tension. The plates have receptacles for the insertion of a holder, with the holder extending away from the tree trunk. A blind cover is attached to the holder and provides a user with complete camouflage as the user sits within the blind cover. The hunting blind is inexpensive, easy to manufacture, light weight, and easily transportable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2001
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventor: Reuben L. Varnado
  • Publication number: 20020134414
    Abstract: A device for protection of property against high winds comprising a flexible material of predetermined strength and stretch characteristics, and in the form of a panel or several panels, utilized to protect the side of a structure including its windows and doors from the strong winds and debris impacts occurring during a hurricane. The device is anchored in a manner to space it out from the area being protected according to formula provided, and can safely dissipate substantial impacting energy. The preferred embodiment attaches to an overhanging eave and the ground below protecting in addition to the windows and doors, plantings, outdoor furniture, decorative shutters, downspouts, and such as are enclosed behind the barrier. Several methods of storage and deployment of said curtain are described including rolling, sliding, and converting to awning. The barrier has the added feature of acting as a tie down in certain applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventor: Ted Gower
  • Patent number: 6434877
    Abstract: A collapsible hunter's blind apparatus, for enclosing a hunter in a truncated triangularly-shaped enclosure, comprising: first and second vertically draping camouflage panels, a first horizontal telescopic frame member for horizontally supporting the first vertically draping camouflage panel, and a second horizontal telescopic frame member for horizontally supporting the second vertically draping camouflage panel. The first and second horizontal telescopic frame members are coupled to the sides of a tree trunk via an adjustable strap member. The collapsible hunter's blind apparatus further comprises an arc-shaped strap member which provides a reciprocating force to counterbalance gravitational forces and the weight of the horizontally supported first and second vertically draping camouflage panels acting on the first and second telescopic horizontal support members, respectively, to maintain each of the first and second telescopic horizontal support members substantially horizontal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: Dennis Shelton
  • Publication number: 20020096265
    Abstract: A canopy assembly for sheltering a drive-up ordering station of a fast food restaurant can pivot out of the way when impacted by a vehicle and return automatically to a centered position. A centering feature mounted to a column supporting a roof structure engages a pivotal coupler to bias the roof to a center position. This feature includes a pivot post assembly extending across the cavity and through a pair of helical slots in the coupler. When a leading end of the roof assembly is struck by a vehicle, the coupler is rotated and the pivot post engages the slots so that the coupler translates upward. The coupler is biased by gravity to a centered position in which the top ends of the slots rest on the pivot post.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventors: Paul R. Bertheaume, Kenneth R. Bergmann, Maurice Michaud, Matt Dewey
  • Patent number: 6418953
    Abstract: A mobile canopy system providing shelter from the sun, rain, and wind. The canopy system contains at least two canopy system sections, each containing one centrally located support structure. A truss system is attached to the support structure, perpendicularly extending the length of the canopy system section. Canopy framing systems are perpendicularly connected to, and intervally spaced along, the truss system. Cross bars are perpendicularly connected to the ends of the canopy framing systems, extending the length of the canopy system section. The canopy lies in an inclined plane, suspended from the cross bars, providing adequate clearance for underlying activities including golf. The inclined canopy, suspended below the truss system and canopy framing systems, provides absorbing and deflective protection to the user from errantly hit objects, whereby the canopy absorbs the force of the errant object and deflects the object out and away from the participant under the canopy system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Inventor: John T. Novotny
  • Publication number: 20020083969
    Abstract: A sunshade includes a supporting rod, a canopy support frame, and a canopy. An adjusting sleeve is slidably mounted around the supporting rod. A holding sleeve is pivotally connected to an upper end of the supporting rod. An arcuate tube is slidably extended through the holding sleeve. An elbow is mounted to a first end of the arcuate tube and a reel is mounted to a second end of the arcuate tube. A connecting rod is connected between the second end of the arcuate tube and the adjusting sleeve. An anchor is provided to be releasably engaged in an anchor room in the elbow to reliably retain the canopy support frame in a desired tilting angle relative to the supporting rod. The arcuate tube and the supporting rod can be folded to further reduce the overall volume of the sunshade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2001
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventor: Pai Tung
  • Publication number: 20020078988
    Abstract: A portable hunting blind configurable between a collapsed configuration to a deployed configuration composed of a collapsible frame and a flaccidly flexible skin which covers the frame. The frame has a U-shaped base, a U-shaped upright which is pivotally connected to the base and is selectively height adjustable, a U-shaped first forward support pivotally connected to the upright, and a U-shaped second forward support pivotally connected to the first forward support. The skin is shaped to provide a generally taut fit when the frame is in the deployed configuration. At least one window is formed in the skin for peering thereout and shooting therethrough. A buttress, preferably in the form of a draw belt, is connected to each side of the upright near the upper end thereof, wherein a first belt member passes through a first slit formed in the skin at one side of the opening, and a second belt member passes through a second slit formed in the skin at the other side of the opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2000
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventor: Todd J. Valpredo
  • Publication number: 20020074030
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a cover for a hunting stand which can be removably attached to an existing hunting stand. The present invention is adaptable to fit many sizes and shapes of existing hunting stands; however, one of the common types that it is adaptable to fit is referred to as a tripod hunting stand which comprises an upper hunting stand mounted on a tripod set of legs. The present invention comprises a framework having means for attachment to the railing of the existing hunting stand. The present invention also has a canvas cover mounted thereon which cover has multiple windows provided therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Leon L. Raines, Mike Ward
  • Patent number: 6401735
    Abstract: A stretching structure for sunshade body. The structure includes a stem, an auxiliary lever, a push lever, an upper beehive, a lower beehive, several upper support ribs, several lower support ribs, several cock members, several pivot blocks, several arch fitting blocks, several L-shaped fitting blocks and two metal cords. When stretching the sunshade body, a locating collar fitted on the stem is upwardly pushed or downwardly pulled and located by a locating handle. At this time, the upper support rib pivotally connected with the locating collar drives the auxiliary lever which drives the push lever and the lower support rib so as to upwardly and outwardly stretch open the upper and lower support ribs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Tong Yih Plastic Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shan Chung Chou
  • Patent number: 6394118
    Abstract: A quick setup canopy apparatus is configured for use at the end of a vehicle. The apparatus includes a pair of base plate units adapted to be anchored by the weight of respective vehicle wheels. Each of the base plate units has a respective support member pivotally connected thereto. An arcuate web support frame is connected to distal ends of the support members in cantilevered fashion. A flexible web material is maintained on the web support frame to provide a covered canopy region underneath. Preferably, the framework of the apparatus comprises a plurality of telescopically connected rod elements to permit storage in a relatively small volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventors: Donald S. Cikanowick, Gary Munson
  • Publication number: 20020053171
    Abstract: The present invention is a netting system (10) for use with bleachers and grandstands (11) to prevent children, persons, and debris from falling to the ground. A first end (12a) of a net (12) is operatively connected to a cable (18) proximate an attachment point (11a) proximate the top of the bleachers (11). Then, a second end (12b) of the net (12) is passed over the understructure (11c) of the bleachers (11) and then operatively connected to a cable (25) proximate an attachment point (11b) proximate the bottom of the bleachers (11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2001
    Publication date: May 9, 2002
    Inventor: David S. Denny
  • Publication number: 20020036007
    Abstract: A portable blind apparatus is provided for mounting on a tree and includes an umbrella mounting assembly for mounting on the tree. A collapsible umbrella is supported by the umbrella mounting assembly. The umbrella includes a collapsible umbrella canopy and a canopy support member connected to the umbrella canopy. A flexible net is draped over and supported by the umbrella. The flexible net can be fixed to the canopy support member with a quantity of adhesive material. Net straps are connected to the net for stabilizing the net with respect to the tree. A person who is inside the internal region defined by the hanging net and the umbrella is concealed from view and is protected from becoming wet by rain or snow. The flexible net can include windows or portholes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Publication date: March 28, 2002
    Inventor: Bartley J. Sellers
  • Patent number: 6357461
    Abstract: A sunshade has a shade and at least two supports, with each support having a second end that is coupled to the shade at spaced-apart locations thereof. The sunshade also has a connector coupled to the first end of each support, the connector having a central portion that has a groove, and a leaf for coupling the first end of each support. The leaf is hingedly connected to the central portion by an integral thin section and has a locking member fitted inside the groove to hold the leaf at a fixed position with respect to the central portion. Each support of the sunshade can also have an adjustable length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Quantum Auto (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventors: Lun Chai, Tsang To Chai