Abstract: Systems and methods of the invention relate to managing an inventory of items within a storage container. A storage container can house one or more items for distribution among one or more users such as, for instance, employees. The storage container discussed herein provides authentication of a user, tracking of the inventory each user removes or returns, video/image capture of user during access of the storage container, wireless tracking of items housed within the storage container, among others.

Abstract: A system for attaching mesh to a frame and applying tension to the mesh is described. The system includes a locking strip slot in a movable frame member that permits mesh and an attached locking strip to be inserted into the slot from the top. The locking strip may be asymmetric. The system further includes a rigid frame that can hold the movable frame member under tension. The system also includes gripping the movable frame member at the locking strip slot to apply tension to the mesh. A simple hand tool may be used for engaging the locking strip slot and leveraging against the rigid portion of the frame to apply the tension. A simple hand tool may be used for separating the movable frame member from the rigid frame to remove the mesh.

Abstract: An innovative, low-density, highly-insulating modular panel for use in many applications and industries. The panel consists of a frame that may be preformed or bent and may be made of rigid or flexible material, and a panel covering comprising at least one pocket of thin, low-density shade fabric that has the capability of sufficiently stretching to surround the frame when the pocket is pulled onto it. The pocket may be then secured, along any previously open end where the frame was inserted, by various fastening devices. The panel covering pocket may have additional features added, as described herein. The panel is durable and cost-effective, and has good solar-control and insulating qualities. It is also a windbreak panel, a noise-reduction panel, an impact protection panel, a water-resistant panel, a fall protection panel, and a pollution-control panel. Two or more panels can be joined to create a structure-protecting panel assembly or system.

Abstract: A system for attaching mesh to a frame and applying tension to the mesh is described. The system includes a locking strip slot in a movable frame member that permits mesh and an attached locking strip to be inserted into the slot from the top. The locking strip may be asymmetric. The system further includes a rigid frame that can hold the movable frame member under tension. The system also includes gripping the movable frame member at the locking strip slot to apply tension to the mesh. A simple hand tool may be used for engaging the locking strip slot and leveraging against the rigid portion of the frame to apply the tension. A simple hand tool may be used for separating the movable frame member from the rigid frame to remove the mesh.

Abstract: A sun shading apparatus includes a supporting frame, a shading frame and a shading fabric. The supporting frame includes a first and a second leg frame, and a supporting bar extended between the first and the second leg frames, while the second leg frame has a third and a fourth mounting slot. The shading frame includes a first and a second coupling joint each having a V-shaped cross section detachably coupled with two ends of the supporting bar respectively, a first and a second frame member and a reinforcing frame. The first and the second frame member are coupled with the first coupling joint and the second coupling joint respectively, while the reinforcing frame is extended between the first and second frame member and the supporting bar to form a support platform. The shading fabric is detachably mounted on the support platform for shading adverse weather condition.

Abstract: A blind and blind assembly are provided for reducing or eliminating the flow of air between the blind and an opening at which the blind is installed. A blind is provided for an opening in a structure, the blind comprising a flexible blind sheet portion, at least one slat disposed at the blind sheet portion and extending substantially across the blind sheet portion, the at least one slat contributing to the rigidity of the blind, and at least one sealing portion disposed at at least one part of a periphery of the blind sheet portion for providing a seal between the blind sheet portion and a portion of the structure defining the opening when the blind is mounted in the opening. Also provided is a blind assembly comprising a blind and at least one bracket for for sealingly retaining the edge against a portion of a structure defining an opening.

Abstract: A canvas stretching assembly has adjustable stretching bars connecting in an end-to-end configuration that allow for the stretching of a canvas, even after the canvas is mounted thereon, with the degree of stretching being adjustable in multiple directions. The canvas stretching assembly, when disassembled, may be compactly stored, which is especially appreciated for shipment purposes.

Abstract: In a screen device, a pair of vertical rails 24 arranged on the front and back sides of a screen 8 so as to oppose to each other are connected by connecting members 30 and are fixed between a pair of sliding guide frames 10a and 10b with the intermediary of the screen. The connected vertical rails are integrally slidable in the direction parallel to the direction of sliding movement of a screen mounting frame, so that the screen is restrained from being deflected even when it receives a wind pressure in the closed state when the width in the opening and closing direction is large.

Abstract: A sheet material tensioning apparatus includes frame members interconnected one with another to define a closed contour. The apparatus applies tension to sheet material by imposing a separation between frame members to expand the closed contour. Beneficially, the sheet material tensioning apparatus includes an edge-bridging mechanism, such as a spline, to span the gap between the separated frame members. The edge-bridging mechanism maintains the continuity of the edge supporting the sheet material. The sheet material apparatus may include a crossbar assembly to add rigidity to long frame members, while maintaining planar alignment even under considerable compression.

Abstract: The invention is a wall for interior architecture, particularly for partitioning adjacent rooms, comprising a substantially rigid frame (2) suited to define an external perimeter surface (4) of the wall (1), and one pair of opposite faces (3) constrained to the rigid frame (2) and made of a flexible material. In particular, the opposite faces (3) comprise elastic constraining means (5) suited to maintain them tensioned and substantially parallel to a geometrical plane, while the rigid frame (2) and the opposite tensioned faces (3) delimit an internal hollow region (6).

Abstract: A groove-mount fabric display system with two-part frame comprises an outer frame element, an insert frame element and one or two flexible display panels. The two-part frame is quickly assembled by inserting and deploying the insert frame element within the rigid outer frame element. The frame elements can be manufactured from flat stock materials which are relatively inexpensive to purchase and shape. The interface of the frame elements forms one or more grooves near the perimeter of the resulting two-part frame. The grooves accept mounting gaskets connected at the peripheries of each display panel. Embodiments may include one or more internally-positioned compression tubes to help maintain internal structural rigidity and the integrity of the grooves. What results is a more cost-effective, robust, three-dimensional display capable of supporting fabric display panels in tension over extended periods of use.

Abstract: A window treatment system and method of installing the system are provided. The system includes a first and a second u-track positioned on opposite sides of a window frame. A first support rod and a second support rod each have a first end positioned in the first u-track and a second end positioned in the second u-track. A shade is coupled to the first and the second support rods and the rods frictionally support the shade and rods within the window frame. The method includes attaching a first u-track to a first side of a window frame and attaching a second u-track to a second, opposing side of a window frame. A shade is installed on the first and second support rods. A first end of a first and second support rod is inserted into the first u-shaped track and a second end of the first and second support rods are inserted in the second u-shaped track.

Abstract: A panel of material enabled in an erect unfurled position using one or more diagonal support members attached at diagonal corners. Vertical and/or horizontal support members increase panel rigidity. Connecting at least three panels produces a collapsible upright flexible enclosure. Attaching a bottom panel produces a container. Attaching carrying straps to the top of the upright flexible container allows it to be carried and folded up. A panel can be attached to the top edges permanently or with some type of fastening means. The present invention can also be used as a housing structure. Placing a grommet in the middle of the roof and using a vertical pole to hold the roof up prevents roof sagging. Removing the roof's vertical support pole allows the roof to sag for rain water collection using a cistern in the middle of the enclosure. Support members can be removed for washing or folding.

Abstract: A system comprising inexpensive composite panels and a configuration that holds them, all components of which are man portable. Select embodiments protect assets against external force and impacts from airborne projectiles. An open box-like stackable frame module holds thin panels along a longitudinal axis of the frame. Multiple frames a reconnected to construct a protective barrier, such as a wall. The panels may be formulated of a very high strength portland cement-based concrete with one side, both sides, or both sides and all edges, covered with elastic material, the combination of which significantly reduces penetration of projectiles. A panel may be covered with specially formulated elastic material comprising multiple layers, each layer of a different type or thickness of elastic material. The elastic material may include reinforcing material such as fabric woven from available COTS high-strength fibers. The panels may be fabricated using basic means available in rural locations.

Abstract: A closure assembly includes a frame having at least one hollow end rail and a pair of side rails coupled in butt joints to opposed ends of the end rail. The butt joints include a core extending through the hollow end rail and from opposed ends of the end rail through openings in the side rails into the interiors of the side rails. A saddle within each side rail interior straddles a corresponding end of the core. A fastener extends through each of the saddles into engagement with a corresponding end of the core firmly to clamp to side rails against opposed ends of the end rail. The core preferably is of uniform cross-section throughout its length, having edges that internally engage the hollow end rail against lateral movement of the core within the end rail. A resilient washer preferably is captured in compression between each saddle and the opposing end of the core. One of the saddles preferably has an integrally formed extension within one of the side rails for securement of a hinge to the side rail.

Abstract: The print screen frame tensioning system, generally rectangular in shape and fabricated from extruded rectangular tubular rails, when assembled, each side rail of the frame has a longitudinal one way channel, circular in cross sectional area, formed in each of the tubular rails for substantially the length of the tubular rails for receipt of a locking rod, the locking rod being axially serrated in order to accept a matching internally serrated standard wrench socket and the longitudinal channel being axially serrated, each locking rod having an additional internal tensioning fitting formed on both of its longitudinal ends for separate lateral tensioning.

Abstract: An extendable rod has a head that captures a partition curtain and holds the curtain near a surface such as a ceiling or wall. The head has an outer surface (e.g., an upper surface when the head is abutting a ceiling) that has a deformable gripping surface. The lower surface of the head is metallic and relies upon magnetic force to capture the curtain in place on the head. In a first embodiment the lower surface has downwardly depending flanges on opposite ends. The curtain is draped over the upper surface of the head and is wrapped over the lower surface. A magnet or magnets are placed onto the lower surface, inward of the flange, capturing the curtain and holding it in place on the head. The rod is then extended so that the upper surface of the head bears against the ceiling or other surface. The magnets hold the curtain securely in place, which allows for simple installation.

Abstract: A frame for supporting the screen of a screen printing machine having elongated frame members coupled together each providing support for an edge of the screen. The frame further includes a reinforcing member supported by the frame to extend in intimate proximity along at least a portion of at least one of the frame members to provide a prestress and/or camber of the frame member. The reinforcing member may include a cable extending within an interior of the frame member. The reinforcing member may also include an elongated secondary member affixed to the frame member while the frame member and secondary member are subjected to an applied condition imposing differential strains on confronting surfaces of the frame member and secondary member.

Abstract: A bracing system for canvas stretcher frames allows for positioning of one or more braces in a stretcher bar frame, to prevent inward pulling of the stretcher bars under canvas tension. The braces are modular in design and allow convenient assembly of multiple-braced stretcher bar frames. The braces have tenons which engage with a groove extending around the inner periphery of the stretcher bar frame, and the braces themselves preferably have grooves in their edges, to receive the tenons of further braces.

Abstract: A bracing system for canvas stretcher frames allows for positioning of one or more braces in a stretcher bar frame, to prevent inward pulling of the stretcher bars under canvas tension. The braces are modular in design and allow convenient assembly of multiple-braced stretcher bar frames. The braces have tenons which engage with a groove extending around the inner periphery of the stretcher bar frame, and the braces themselves preferably have grooves in their edges, to receive the tenons of further braces.

Abstract: In a spring-loaded curtain mount, includes a pole interface at a proximal end, a compressive mechanism, and a head at a distal end. The pole interface is adapted to recieve the end of a standard length adjustable pole or a painter's pole. The compression mechanism is disposed between the proximal end of the mount and the head. The mount includes a clamp adapted to recieve a portion of a curtain. During installation, the curtain mount is coupled to the end of an extension pole and the length of the pole is adjusted such that the combined length of the pole and mount is slighty longer than the distance between the floor and ceiling. At ground level, a portion of the curtain is attached to the head of the curtain mount. the curtain and mount are raised to the ceiling and the mount and pole are compressed between the floor and the ceiling. This compressive force operates to urge the head toward the ceiling, securing the mount in place.

Abstract: An improved foundation vent with increased net free area is provided. The foundation vent has a frame that surrounds and defines an opening and a grill supported by the frame and spanning the opening. The grill has an inside face disposed on the inside of a crawlspace when the vent is mounted in a foundation wall and an outside face disposed on the outside of the crawlspace. A mesh screen is mounted to the frame and spans the opening adjacent the inside face of the grill. The grill is provided with projecting standoffs that support the screen at a predetermined distance from the inside face of the grill to form a plenum between the screen and the grill. A raised peripheral rim is provided on the frame and supports the peripheral portion of the screen. The spacing of the screen from the inside face of the grill and the plenum formed thereby unblocks the portions of the screen that otherwise would be blocked by the members of the grill and thus increases the net free area of the foundation vent.

Abstract: A high strength window screen frame that includes an extruded metal frame that surrounds a window opening in a building. The frame defines an opening. A screen plate portion of the extruded metal frame is provided on the frame proximate the opening. A flange portion of the extruded metal frame is provided on an outside of the frame away from the opening. A beveled surface on the flanged portion is provided to improve the appearance of the metal frame. A screen plate stiffener is removably affixed to a back side of the extruded metal frame to secure a screen to the frame. Heavy duty mesh screen is preferably used with a high strength window screen frame of the invention. The flanged portion of the window screen frame is bolted to an exterior wall surrounding a window opening of a structure.

Abstract: A rigid braced art surface that will support sculptural objects, metal fasteners, foams, paints, plasters, and the like. The braced art surface consists of a rigid working surface supported by back bracing that runs horizontally, vertically, and diagonally, with corner supports. The resulting system of bracing, along with the permanent fastening of the surface to the bracing, results in a surface that is dimensionally stable, twist and warp resistant. As an braced art surface of rigid and strong construction, one can apply paint, scrape or cut, attach objects, or apply plasters and foams to it with no concern for compromising the structural integrity of the surface.

Abstract: In a spring-loaded curtain mount, the mount includes a pole interface at a proximal end, a compressive mechanism, and a head at a distal end. The pole interface is adapted to receive the end of a standard length adjustable pole or a painter's pole. The compression mechanism is disposed between the proximal end of the mount and the head. The mount includes a coupling device adapted to receive a portion of a curtain. During installation, the curtain mount is coupled to the end of an extension pole and the length of the pole is adjusted such that the combined length of the pole and mount is slightly longer than the distance between the floor and ceiling. At ground level, a portion of the curtain is attached to the head of the curtain mount. The curtain and mount are raised to the ceiling and the mount and pole are compressed between the floor and the ceiling. This compressive force operates to urge the head toward the ceiling, securing the mount in place.

Abstract: A lightweight, low cost shower door assembly for enclosing a tub or shower enclosure having sides and a base. It includes an upper support member adapted to be positioned against opposing sides of the enclosure and a lower support member adapted to be positioned against the base of the enclosure. A door in the assembly includes a flexible rod connecting first and second frame members. The first frame member is connected to the upper and lower support members and positioned for movement about a vertical axis. The flexible rod is bowed to apply an upward force on the second frame member in order to maintain it in releasable connection with the upper support member. In use, a section of replaceable fabric or vinyl extends across the frame members in order to provide a water barrier for the door.

Abstract: A foldable cargo cover comprising a pliable sheet having a plurality of elongate stiffener members attached thereto at selected locations thereon. The stiffener members are of sufficient rigidity to maintain the sheet in a substantially planar configuration when fully unfolded, and bendable for allowing the sheet to be folded into a compact configuration.

Abstract: A tonneau cover for covering an opening in a structure, the opening having a periphery, the structure having a front shelf, side rails, and an end gate, and the cover including a fastening system for securing a frame to a flexible fabric web, the improvement wherein the frame employs a plurality of h-shaped rail members and L-shaped rail members connected by fastening members, for assembling an unlimited sized flexible fabric web to the frame.

Abstract: A partition for forming fencing, or cages for warehouses, repair shops and the like, typically comprises a plurality of spaced, vertical posts and at least one mesh wall vertically positioned between the spaced, vertical posts and attached to them. The mesh wall defines a horizontally extending portion extending substantially the length of the mesh wall, with the horizontally extending portion being integral with the mesh wall but bent into transverse relation with the remainder of the vertically positioned mesh wall. The horizontally extending portion stiffens the mesh wall. Preferably the mesh wall defines a pair of such horizontally extending portions, one at the top and one at the bottom of the mesh wall. Also, by this invention a pair of mesh walls may be attached to the vertical posts in vertical relation to each other, being attached to each other by connectors through the horizontally extending portions.

Abstract: A tonneau cover assembly is provided having a rail network, a plurality of clamps, one or more crossbars and a flexible top. The rail network is secured about the bed of a pick-up truck, using clamps. Thus, no holes are made in the vehicle, and the entire tonneau cover assembly can be mounted without the use of tools. After the rail network is secured to the truck, the crossbars are placed over the truck bed, and snap onto the clamps. Insert tips allow the crossbars to adjust to various lengths. A tang on the clamp is received by the insert tip, and provides resistance to torsional forces. A hook assembly is sewn about the periphery of the flexible cover and is secured to the rail network. To disengage the flexible cover from the rail network, a stripping member is used. In the first preferred embodiment, the stripping member rests within the rail network and forcibly ejects a portion of the hook assembly from the rail network.

Abstract: Improvements to the design of metal frames of security screens are disclosed. The improvement, each of which may be applied individually or in conjunction with any combination or all of the other improvements, include a retainer groove in the frame into which is inserted the ends of the screen mesh and of a tension retainer bar to prevent the mesh and bar from pulling away from the screen frame when a force is applied against the screen mesh, a second line of tension retainer bar fasteners, grooves on the retainer wall of the tension retainer bar to prevent fasteners from slipping during insertion, vinyl or felt extender tongues extending from the frame perpendicularly to each other, refinements to the design of the screen frame to maintain the structural integrity of the screen frame while accommodating the aforesaid retainer groove, and the insertion of the ends of a center brace into slots in the outside frame members or the use of insertion keys to better secure the center brace.

Abstract: A frame structure for supporting a stretched printing screen of the kind used in the so-called silkscreen printing process. The frame structure is intended for use in screen printing relatively large surface areas, and comprises frame members which are joined at their ends to form an open rectangular screen frame across one side of which the printing screen is stretched. At least two opposing frame members of the screen frame have a unique truss construction which resists either or both vertical bending or sagging of the frame when it is raised and lowered during a screen printing operation and inward bowing of the opposing frame members in the plane of the frame by tension in the stretched printing screen.

Abstract: A device is provided for stabilizing a flexible membrane secured within a frame, wherein a plurality of elongated arms are disposed radially from a central hub which penetrates the membrane, said arms imposing alternately against opposite sides of the membrane, thus warping and tensioning the membrane into a condition of improved stability. The membrane may be an opaque or translucent sheet or other material.

Abstract: The device consists of a pair of semicircular, transparent sheets of resilient plastic material, one of the sheets having molded on one surface a series of pegs which are insertable through the mesh of the screening. The other sheet has a corresponding pattern of holes to receive the pegs such that the two semicircular sheets can be secured together with a portion of screening between them in sandwich fashion. The device is used to reinforce and protect the mesh screening adjacent to the handle of a screen door so that bulging or accidental puncturing of the screening is avoided.

Abstract: An artist canvas frame comprises the usual rectangular frame members attached at four corners and having a canvas stretched around the periphery and held in place by staples or some other suitable means. To improve the stability of the frame a brace is provided substantially midway transversely across the back of the frame in one or both directions and is held in place by movable plastic socket members on each respective end of the brace and each socket member comprises a small rectangular tube having opposed side members extending therefrom fitted over the inside faces of opposed frame members, known individually as stretcher strips or stretcher bars.

Abstract: A middle rail assembly for centrally clamping a screen within a frame structure is disclosed. The middle rail includes a supporting member, a C-shaped cover and a plurality of coupling means tightly received into apertures formed in the supporting member. The coupling means are configured to be forced through the screen and fit into the apertures. The screen is therefore tightly clamped at the middle rail.