Plural Shelters, Shelter Having Plural Compartments, Or Plural Sectional Covering Patents (Class 135/97)
  • Patent number: 7438078
    Abstract: There is a combination sleeping bag system. There is a tent member, including a tent base, a tent wall coupled to the tent base and defining a tent interior, and a tent aperture through the tent wall; and a sleeping bag defining a sleeping cavity, extending through the tent aperture, and including a head portion disposed within the tent interior, a foot portion disposed exterior the tent member, and a storage cavity accessible from the sleeping cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Inventors: Peter Woodruff, Ronald Shawn Naccarato, Tony Reece
  • Patent number: 7406977
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved tensioned canopy shelter of the type used by backpackers. The canopy of the new shelter has a lower rear support and a higher front pole support with a horizontal ridge strut. The ridge strut spreads the forward end of the canopy's ridgeline into a catenary-tensioned panel, with dual catenary curves running from the ends of the ridge strut to the rear end of the canopy. The horizontal ridge strut can be supported by a single central upright pole, or it can alternately be supported at its ends by spaced upright poles for even greater stability and easier entry and exit through the front of the shelter, for example using two trekking-type poles. In the preferred form the ridge strut is provided with pole connections to allow either the single- or double-pole options. In a further preferred form, the ridge strut is removably held in a sleeve in such a manner that it may either be left in place or removed when the shelter is rolled up for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Inventor: Henry C. Shires
  • Publication number: 20080149156
    Abstract: A housing has an expansion tent connectable thereto. A bag-shaped cover is present, and has an opening permanently connected to the housing. The cover forms the interior surface of the erected expansion tent, and is suitable for hermetically sealing off the interior of the housing and the expansion tent with respect to the environment. Sealing can be provided during all operating conditions, while erecting the tent, and while dismantling the tent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Applicant: EADS Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas SERDEN, Martin Deister, Peter Geiselhart, Ingo Aust, Jan Krueder
  • Patent number: 7389785
    Abstract: A frame tent system having a plurality of upright columns, a plurality of eave members, and a plurality of rafters. The plurality of members are inter-connected by a system of novel eave weldments. The eave weldment is preferably a four-way connector unit interconnecting the frame members of the tent system at major points of connection to form the frame tent system. The eave weldment is formed of a weldment plate and an insert tube disposed perpendicular to the weldment plate. The frame members of the tent system each include a channel for releasably receiving ends of the eave weldment. In particular, the channel disposed in the rafter receives a first end of the weldment plate; the channel disposed in the upright column receives a second end of the weldment plate; the channel disposed in the eave members receive an end of the insert tube thereby forming the frame tent system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Inventors: William A. Loudermilk, Richard D. Cook
  • Publication number: 20080041433
    Abstract: An umbrella assembly providing a dihedral shelter atop a pole which can be deployed to different dihedral angles and retracted to a compact configuration. It further includes a vent port in a cavity which is overhung by a positively positioned vent port cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: John W. Caldwell
  • Patent number: 7316238
    Abstract: A tent having a repositionable floor, the floor preferably including a pair of subpanels that mate together and form a water-resistant seam. The subpanels can be repositioned within the interior of the tent or exteriorly of the tent. Additionally, each floor subpanel can be retracted and secured to a wall of the tent so as to create a floorless or partially floorless tent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Wingroup North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Bobby G. Sumner
  • Patent number: 7146995
    Abstract: The tent frame supports a traditional canopy, a tension canopy and a pagoda canopy and can be configured as a tent assembly kit. The tent frame includes uprights removably fitted into respective corner fittings along with generally horizontal tent frame cross members also fitted into the corner fittings. Canopy support members have one end removably coupled to the corner pieces and a crown fitting receives the other end of the canopy support member. A removable vertical extension piece is removably mounted atop the crown fitting such that when the extension piece is threaded to the crown fitting, the pagoda canopy can be utilized with the assembled tent frame or, in a different tent assembly without the extension piece, the tent frame retains and supports either the traditional canopy or the tension canopy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Inventor: Hal Lapping
  • Patent number: 7140377
    Abstract: A internal support structure for a tent having a shell is disclosed. The internal support structure comprises at least one internal support structure configured to provide structural support to the shell, the internal support structure having a pair of gussets each having a member extending from the gussets. The members are configured to engage the shell and provide structural support to the shell. The internal support structure is disposed adjacent to the shell without occupying space in the middle portion of an internal space defined by the shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Johnson Outdoors Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne G. Dahulich
  • Patent number: 7131236
    Abstract: A portable decontamination system includes a preassembled shelter, convertible between a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration, and a fluid delivery system integral with the shelter. In the stowed configuration the shelter encloses a negligible volume. In the deployed configuration the shelter comprises a plurality of side walls, a plurality of end walls, and a roof. The walls and the roof define a central space. The fluid delivery system is configured to convey decontamination fluid into the shelter and to distribute decontamination fluid throughout at least a portion of the central space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: TVI Corporation
    Inventors: Chad Sample, Richard A. Esser
  • Patent number: 6997198
    Abstract: Method for manufacturing a tent construction having at least one panel manufactured from suitable cloth, and tent construction manufactured utilizing the method. A basic panel is manufactured from a material of desired properties and is provided with one or more covering panels or waterproof material that form part of the outer wall of the tent construction. The basic panel may consist of relatively narrow edges of durable material or of an entirely or partially closed panel of open, breathing material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Inventor: Egbert Berend Holtkamp
  • Patent number: 6892744
    Abstract: A quickly erectable structure includes expandable/collapsible top and bottom assemblies that are interconnected to facilitate forming an enclosure and to facilitate taking down the enclosure. Specifically, the bottom assembly includes a plurality of interconnected X-shaped subframes that combine to form a telescoping scissor frame. The top assembly includes a plurality of inverted foldable Y-shaped subframes attached together and to a top of the telescoping scissor frame in a manner that combines the two to form a stable umbrella-like overcenter top frame attached atop the telescoping scissor frame. A drawstring mechanism is attached to a peak of the structure to hold the top frame in an expanded position. Flexible covers are attached to the two frames, and a drawstring arrangement on the top cover allows flaps to be lifted to form 360 degrees of windows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Inventors: Thomas G. Feldpausch, Michael J. Feldpausch, Stephen J. Feldpausch, James E. Trist
  • Publication number: 20040238021
    Abstract: A modular tent system may utilize a multiple-sided central room, such as a four wall or five-sided central room, to which several different components may be attached. Included among these components are an awning, a screened room, a closet, and a three or four person tent. Each of the components is preferably configured so that it may fit against one of the walls of either the four-sided central room or the five-sided central room, and so that rain hitting the central room or a component is not directed into either the component or into the central room.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Applicant: The Coleman Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy M. Holub, Suk Keun Yoo
  • Publication number: 20040163694
    Abstract: A novel airplane shelter provides a plurality of arched vertical support members arranged axially along a line corresponding to the fuselage of an airplane to be sheltered. A cantilever beam is attached to the apex of each arched vertical support member, forming a “spine” along the top of the aligned arched support members. The cantilever beam is attached at one end to the rearwardmost arched support member, and the opposite end extends forwardly past the forwardmost arched support member to a point corresponding to the forwardmost point of an airplane to be sheltered. Separate lateral support members are placed at points corresponding to the wingtips of the airplane. The result is an open frame that defines a volume capable of enclosing an airplane. A covering material is placed over the open frame and stretched taut or otherwise secured over the entire structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Inventor: Donald W. Bogart
  • Patent number: 6742309
    Abstract: A personnel decontamination and containment system is disclosed. This system includes a plurality of components positionable on a selected location for establishment of a multi-station decontamination and containment facility to decontaminate personnel and to contain contaminants collected during the decontamination process. The components can include a plurality of collapsible frame and roof assemblies, wall and roof covers, a weapons clearing assembly, a weapons storage locker, a hanging bar, a signage assembly, collapsible containment hamper assemblies, a covered dispensing assembly, a shuffle box, a multi-wipe dispensing assembly, and a transportable containment enclosure. The enclosure is shaped and sized to removably retain the system's components for transportation or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Survival, Inc.
    Inventors: Ricky William Stewart, Lee Walker Brillhart, III
  • Patent number: 6701948
    Abstract: An outdoor modular shelter shell with simplified connection system comprises a flexible covering having a central portion which overlays a supporting frame. Four displaceable/connectable side panels extend from the central portion to form an enclosure. A tail fastener/wall fastener connection system allows the user to completely displace walls and connect a plurality of shells to form a one room weather proof outdoor shelter with no restrictions between connected shells. Various individual wall panels may be added to transform the shelter from a fishing shelter to a hunting blind. The simplified connection system is very easy to use even with a gloved hand under low light conditions and provides a strong, weather tight, aesthetically pleasing, economical joint between the walls of an individual shelter or a plurality of connected shelters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventors: Brian David Jopp, Bobby D. Jopp
  • Patent number: 6684584
    Abstract: A shelter has a frame assembly (12), and a roof assembly (14) and flexible sidewall assembly (16) releasably connected thereto. The frame assembly (12) has a plurality of upright frame members (18) laterally spaced relative to each other, and a plurality of lateral frame members (20) extending laterally between and interconnecting the upright frame members (18). The flexible sidewall assembly (16) has a first sidewall frame (22), a second sidewall frame (24), and at least one flexible sidewall (26) connected at one end to the first sidewall frame (22) and connected at another end to the second sidewall frame (24) and extending therebetween. The flexible sidewall assembly (16) further has at least one tensioning device (68) connected to the flexible sidewall (26) for securing it in a taut condition to the frame assembly (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Inventor: Brian L. Goldwitz
  • Publication number: 20030121539
    Abstract: A collapsible and removable roof-like structure or enclosure is provided. The collapsible structure includes a plurality of collapsible sections, each section having two vertical support members having lower end portions and two longitudinal side panel members. Each side panel member has a top edge and side edges. The collapsible structure includes a longitudinal top panel member having opposed edges with each of the longitudinal opposed edges hingedly attached to the adjacent top edge of the each side panel member. The top panel member includes two longitudinal panel members being hinged together at adjacent end edges. Each of the plurality of collapsible sections is of a steadily varying size so that when assembled, they form an extended longitudinal structure. The collapsible structure includes tube members which can be embedded in the ground for receiving the lower end portion of the vertical support members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventor: Hao Ran Gu
  • Publication number: 20030116183
    Abstract: A screen housing assembly includes a housing structure, a carrying structure, a screening structure, a screen releasing assembly, and a releasable securement structure. The housing structure can be carried and moved by a user. The carrying structure is secured to the housing structure for carrying the housing structure. The screening structure is stored internally of the housing structure. The screen releasing assembly is attached to the screening structure to allow the user to release a portion of the screening structure from internally of the housing structure to externally of the housing structure. The releasable securement structure is coupled to the screen releasing assembly to change the screen releasing assembly between a screen released position and a screen releasably secured position. The portion of the screening structure, which is external of the housing structure, can be used to screen off an area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Hill
  • Patent number: 6554013
    Abstract: A modulator transportable collective protection system for the decontamination and containment of personnel in a toxic free area. A contamination containment area is provided through which personnel are decontaminated prior to entering the toxic free area. The migration of contaminants is prevented by causing a purge of clean filtered air from the toxic free area to the contamination control area and to the exterior environment. A blower and filter unit provides air to the toxic free area to maintain an over pressure therein, ensuring that all entry to the toxic free area is through a flow of clean air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: 1289309 Ontario Limited
    Inventor: Louis Brown
  • 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: 20030034061
    Abstract: A frame tent having a triangular-shaped perimeter frame, a flexible canopy attached to said perimeter frame, three corner posts to support the perimeter frame at corners thereof, three cables each having one end attached to an upper end of an associated one of said corner posts and a free end attached to a common junction element, and a flying pole supported at one end by said common junction element and connected at another end to an interior surface of said canopy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Gery Warner
  • Patent number: 6505637
    Abstract: A durable, secure small storage device that protects small vehicles from the elements and theft, as well as provides a platform upon which sponsors can advertise. Sponsors can include any entity that seeks to advertise or convey a specialized message such as corporations, universities, non-profit organizations, individuals, or governmental entities. The storage device includes a frame having a cross rod component and an upwardly extending rod component for laterally supporting a vehicle. A rigid shell is pivotally connected to the frame at the cross rod component and provides shelter and protection for the vehicle stored inside. The invention further includes an advertising means for displaying advertisements of sponsors. In another aspect, the invention comprises a method of providing site owners with such small vehicle storage devices at little or no cost using funds received from advertisers in return for advertising space in conjunction with the devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Bikelid Systems LLC
    Inventor: Stephen C. Voorhees
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6491051
    Abstract: A tent comprising: a) a fabric covering including a plurality of longitudinal walls and end walls, wherein a first longitudinal wall has an opening having around its periphery a panel attachment means and wherein said longitudinal walls are sewn to said end walls; b) a support means positioned in proximity to each of said end walls sufficient to cause said longitudinal walls to form a triangle when affixed to a support means; and c) a panel containing a phase change material sufficient to heat said tent's interior when cold and cool said interior when hot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Inventors: Richard Carter Pierce, Wanda Lynne Pierce
  • Publication number: 20020174888
    Abstract: A modulator transportable collective protection system for the decontamination and containment of personnel in a toxic free area. A contamination containment area is provided through which personnel are decontaminated prior to entering the toxic free area. The migration of contaminants is prevented by causing a purge of clean filtered air from the toxic free area to the contamination control area and to the exterior environment. A blower and filter unit provides air to the toxic free area to maintain an over pressure therein, ensuring that all entry to the toxic free area is through a flow of clean air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Inventor: Louis Brown
  • Patent number: 6463948
    Abstract: A tent with an exterior screen structure (200) having an inner tent structure (310), including an inner fabric enclosure (311) which serve as walls (328, 330, 332), roof (334) and floor (336) of the inner tent structure (310) and an outer tent structure (210) including an outer fabric enclosure (211). A single frame (212) supports both inner (311) and outer fabric enclosures (211).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: Youn Jae Lee
  • Publication number: 20020139407
    Abstract: Temporary emergency cover comprising inflatable framework formulated of high temperature resistant fabric tubing which serves to support a cover formed of high temperature resistant fabric cloth embodied with additional tubing and misters to circulate and to spray water to provide further cooling protection against the high temperatures from a rapid engulfing fire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventor: Antonio Spiteri
  • Publication number: 20020134415
    Abstract: The modular tent is constituted by:
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventor: David Boulange
  • Patent number: 6450186
    Abstract: A tent comprises a shell having an opening therein and poles for supporting the shell in erected configuration enclosing a space. The shell includes a bag extending from the shell at the opening in the shell. The bag is made of pliable material such that the bag is eversible. The bag has an exterior position on the outside of the shell and is manipulable through the opening to an interior position inside the shell in the space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: American Recreation Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry E. Pearcy
  • Publication number: 20020092555
    Abstract: A reinforcement structure for sun tent extension canopy is formed with a pair of extension frames extending from the top ends of the awning poles of the tent. Each extension frame is composed of an extension pole, a supporting pole, a reinforcing pole and clamps, wherein the extension pole has one end connected to the top end of the awning pole while the other end is connected to the supporting pole which has its other end connected to the awning pole. The extension pole comprises a pair of clamps and a receptacle which is to receive one end of the reinforcing pole which has its other end connected to another receptacle on a side pole in order to support the tent when a canopy is covered thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventors: Ting-Hsing Chen, Ming-Liang Tsai
  • 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: 20020083968
    Abstract: A tent comprising: a) a fabric covering including a plurality of longitudinal walls and end walls, wherein a first longitudinal wall has an opening having around its periphery a panel attachment means and wherein said longitudinal walls are sewn to said end walls; b) a support means positioned in proximity to each of said end walls sufficient to cause said longitudinal walls to form a triangle when affixed to a support means; and c) a panel containing a phase change material sufficient to heat said tent's interior when cold and cool said interior when hot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventors: Richard Carter Pierce, Wanda Lynne Pierce
  • Publication number: 20020078989
    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: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Applicant: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Publication number: 20020062852
    Abstract: An outer shell for a portable shelter that has displaceable/connectable characteristics are the major benefits. Ideally, all four of the shell's walls may be displaced. When applied to all four sides, a shelter utilizing this shell would be modular on all four sides. For example, if it were used as an anglers' shelter, it could be connected strategically along a reef or sand bar, around a drop-off, or it might merely be arranged so that the anglers can play a game of cards. A camper may want to displace only one wall and add a screen for greater ventilation. A utility worker may want to connect two units together for space. Also, the utility worker may want to move equipment inside of the shelter; in this case one wall would be displaced. A hunter may want to displace one wall and connect a material that is easily shot through the opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2001
    Publication date: May 30, 2002
    Inventors: Brian David Jopp, Bobby D. Jopp
  • Publication number: 20020059949
    Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided that have a single panel having a foldable frame member having a folded and an unfolded orientation, with a fabric material covering selected portions of the frame member to form the panel when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation, the fabric assuming the unfolded orientation of the frame member. The single panel can further include an amusement feature provided thereon, or can be used as a cover for an object, a pool, pond, box, case or shelter, or can be used as a base with an opening provided in the fabric through which an object can be inserted. The single panels can even be combined to form structures having different configurations and utility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Publication date: May 23, 2002
    Applicant: Patent Category Corporation
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 6390110
    Abstract: A modular transportable collective protection system for the decontamination and containment of personnel in a toxic free area. A contamination containment area is provided through which personnel are decontaminated prior to entering the toxic free area. The migration of contaminants is prevented by causing a purge of clean filtered air from the toxic free area to the contamination control area and to the exterior environment. A blower and filter unit provides air to the toxic free area to maintain an over pressure therein, ensuring that all entry to the toxic free area is through a flow of clean air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: Louis Brown
  • Patent number: 6374842
    Abstract: The triangular, wedge shaped erectable shelter includes a canopy and a leg assembly supporting the canopy. A perimeter truss linkage assembly is connected to the leg assembly, and each of the perimeter truss pairs includes first and second link members pivotally connected together in a scissors configuration, with the outer end of each first link member connected to the upper end of a leg, and the outer end of each second link slidably connected to the leg. The shelter includes a flexible pole member removably mountable to the upper end of at least one of the legs of the shelter to extend across the shelter and support the canopy of the shelter. The flexible pole member is preferably removably mounted in an indexing hole in a bracket affixed to the upper end of at least one of the legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 6360492
    Abstract: An enclosure for sheltering a small aircraft, provides an arcuate roof frame supported by a base frame. The roof frame has a fixed roof portion engaging a movable roof portion and a crank system for adjusting the position of the movable roof. Wing cushions contact the wings of the small aircraft as it is backed into the enclosure and assure that the craft is properly placed. The fixed and movable roof portions are mutually engaged by a rolling clamping system enabled for directing arcuate motion of the movable roof portion relative to the fixed roof portion. A spring-biased awning is engaged with the movable roof portion and extends forwardly. A fabric cover is mounted between the fixed and movable roofs so as to deploy the fabric cover when the movable roof portion is extended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Inventor: James M. Ross
  • 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: 6354043
    Abstract: A privacy screen is configured for use with systems furniture and the like, such as post and beam arrangements that spatially partition an open office space into multiple workstations each having an interior with an opening into an adjacent space. The privacy screen is shaped to enclose a substantial portion of the opening of an associated workstation, and includes a generally flat lower portion, and a bowed upper portion that extends outwardly from the interior of the workstation to provide within the interior of the workstation a sense of spatial openness, as well as enhanced air and light influx, without detracting substantially from useable space on the opposite side of the privacy screen. The privacy screen may be constructed from a woven fabric with a single layer at the upper portion for greater visual porosity, and two layers at the lower portion for visual privacy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: David E. Simon, Chris L. Domina
  • Publication number: 20010015219
    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: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Publication date: August 23, 2001
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 6273114
    Abstract: A modular tent system that supports a number of detachable, weatherproof, self-supporting living quarter or storage pods. In a wall tent configuration, a primary tent is supported from a tubular framework. Each pod mounts to a covered access port of the primary tent. Each pod includes a separate support framework, side walls, floor and roof. Fasteners bordering the peripheral edges of the pod door flap and access port flap interconnect and secure the pod to the walls of the primary tent. Separate fasteners at the pod door flap and access port flap independently control access to the living space of the primary tent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Inventor: Gary Schaefer
  • Publication number: 20010006074
    Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided that have a single panel having a foldable frame member having a folded and an unfolded orientation, with a fabric material covering selected portions of the frame member to form the panel when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation, the fabric assuming the unfolded orientation of the frame member. The single panel can further include an amusement feature provided thereon, or can be used as a cover for an object, a pool, pond, box, case or shelter, or can be used as a base with an opening provided in the fabric through which an object can be inserted. The single panels can even be combined to form structures having different configurations and utility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Publication date: July 5, 2001
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 6109281
    Abstract: A sunshade device is transformable from a folded orientation into an unfolded, fully erected orientation supported on a surface. The sunshade device has a base panel having opposite first edges and supported on the surface when the sunshade device is in the erected orientation, and a pair of side wall panels. Each of the side wall panels has a first edge respectively connected to one of the first edges of the base panel along a connecting line disposed generally horizontal to the surface when the sunshade device is in the erected orientation. The side wall panels extend generally upright and are disposed in spaced-apart relation from each other when the sunshade device is in the erected orientation. A top panel has opposite edges respectively connected with second edges of the side wall panels opposite the first edges thereof for limiting a separation distance of the second edges of the side wall panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Jacpaq Limited
    Inventor: Hans Lowenthal
  • Patent number: 6012505
    Abstract: In the described awning of variable size comprising a canvas (1, 2) which can be wound up on a shaft (3) provided with a drive, the canvas (1, 2) is fastened to the shaft (3), which has only one single drive, at a parting or folding line, and for winding up or unrolling the canvas parts (1, 2) provided by the parting or folding line, at least one tensioning rope (6, 6') is provided which engages at the canvas (1, 2) and which can be coiled up on the shaft (3) on at least one coiling pulley (5, 5') seated on the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Inventors: Gerald Wurz, Norbert Kautzky
  • 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: 5937883
    Abstract: A portable barrier apparatus is disclosed in this specification defining a multi-sectioned barrier for protection against wind and sand in various outdoor environments. Additionally the barrier may assembled and used as a child or pet restraint enclosure, a privacy barrier, or a temporary personal effect storage site. The apparatus includes a connected plurality of flexible barrier panel members which may be supported in an upright manner with a plurality of pole members. The apparatus further includes a bag or similar device for transporting the barrier in an undeployed configuration. The invention provides that the bag can be independently utilized away from the barrier. The invention further provides an accessory enclosure structure which is attachable to the barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventor: Kevin Camara
  • Patent number: 5930956
    Abstract: An easily and quickly deployable device for protecting against soiling of non-workpiece items during painting of a workpiece is provided by a device having at least one rigid section and at least one flexible section. The rigid section also acts as a central area for the flexible section. The device is folded open to protect non-workpiece items during the painting operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Assignee: Stephen Trosper
    Inventors: Stephen Trosper, Frederick Taylor
  • Patent number: 5906078
    Abstract: A clean environment enclosure assembly (10) fabricated of a framework comprising a plurality of struts (18, 118, 218) with a plastic sheet (20) suspended between the struts (18, 118, 218) to define an enclosed space (12). A cap (22, 122, 222) is secured to and extends longitudinally along each of the struts (18, 118, 218), the cap (22, 122, 222) presenting a generally planar outer surface (24, 124, 224) and a groove (26, 126, 226) extending longitudinally there along. The sheet (20) is disposed in the groove (26, 126, 226) and overlays the planar surface (24, 124, 224) of the cap (22, 122, 222). A retainer strip (28, 128, 228) is retained in the groove (26, 126, 226) to sandwich the sheet (20) in the groove (26, 126, 226).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Gallagher-Kaiser Corporation
    Inventor: George O. Cramer
  • Patent number: RE37498
    Abstract: A drive under new automotive hail protection roof hip-and-valley cable-tension type canopy is formed by a rectangular grid pattern of rigid post assemblies joined at their upper ends by longitudinally, transversely and diagonally extending cables forming a coextensive fabric roof support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2002
    Assignee: Layne Christensen Company
    Inventor: James H. Thomas