Abstract: An arrangement for storing thermal energy, which has a three-dimensionally configured heat accumulator is provided. The latter contains a solid natural material for heat storage. The heat-storage material is enclosed by a fluid-impermeable, flexible layer such that the heat-storage material is insulated at least in a pressure-tight manner with regard to the environment of the heat accumulator. A flexible cover layer is provided, which is coupled to the fluid-impermeable flexible layer such that the flexible cover layer applies a surface force to the fluid-impermeable flexible layer. As a result, the fluid-impermeable flexible layer is pressed areally onto the heat-storage material. The flexible cover layer (i) has the form of a mesh or (ii) is configured in the form of sheet-metal plates overlapping one another in an imbricated manner.

Abstract: A material bag includes a bag body and a sleeve on the bag body. A periphery of an opening of the sleeve is provided with a plurality of flexible tabs. An interval is defined between every two of the tabs. The tabs are separated from each other by the interval and connected to the periphery of the opening of the sleeve, so they can be independently flipped to form force-bearing faces to be clamped by a clamping device. When the folded material bag is used for powder/particle material packaging, the clamping device will act on the tabs for clamping the sleeve of the material bag. The clamping device can complete the transfer of the material bag and the connection between the sleeve of the material bag and a filling cylinder.

Abstract: The present invention is a reusable, free standing cover for holding a large bale of hay. The cover can be round or square in cross section to accommodate round or square bales and is provided externally with feet to enable the cover to hold the bale of hay above the ground and to enable stacking of bales of hay.

Abstract: A system and method for fabricating canopies featuring extruded members coupled together with fasteners that are hidden and are retained by multiple tracks located in the extruded members. Prefabricated corners of extruded members allow fabricators to build the canopy on site by attaching straight members to form a canopy from the four prefabricated corners.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to shelter assemblies for bicycles that can be custom designed in a variety of configurations using a relatively small number of modular, easily assembled components. The shelter assembly comprises at least first and second uprights, a crossbar bridging the first and second uprights, and a plurality of roof panels secured to the crossbar. Each roof panel is constructed from a shielding element and one or more rafter elements, which allows each roof panel to be independently rotatable to a plurality of different angles. By securing the roof panels to the crossbar, and in some embodiments the uprights, in a desired configuration, one may prepare a shelter assembly that is custom designed for a particular installation location.

Abstract: The concrete panel anchoring assembly including a concrete panel having a rear face and a connector member projecting from a rear face of the concrete panel. The connector member includes an attachment loop and a saddle element assembled together.

Abstract: A tamper resistant apparatus for removable retention of a memorial marker such as those found at a grave site. The apparatus includes a locking mechanism housed within a cylinder. The cylinder has a cover intended for use exposed to the environment. The cylinder is attached to a footing plate that provides lateral stability during placement of the apparatus in the ground. Horizontal gripping within the ground is provided by a helical anchor attached to the footing plate. The locking mechanism includes a latch which may be moved into and out of a notch in the post of the memorial marker to respectively retain and release the marker from the apparatus.

Abstract: A tablecloth retainer includes an elastic band having at least a primary thickness, a width, and a predesigned boundary, wherein the elastic band is stretched around the perimeter edge of a table top to retain a tablecloth, the predesigned boundary being smaller than a range of table top perimeters accommodating the band by virtue of elasticity of the band.

Abstract: A snow shield for a truck scale for covering the gap between the lower side of the scale deck of the truck scale and a support surface at each side of the truck scale. A first flexible sheet member has its upper end secured to the outer side of the first frame siderail of the truck scale for the length thereof and extends downwardly therefrom outwardly of the gap at one side of the truck scale. A second flexible sheet member has its upper end secured to the outer side of the second frame siderail of the truck scale for the length thereof and extends downwardly therefrom outwardly of the gap at the other side of the truck scale. The lower ends of the sheet members are secured in place to either the supporting surface or the ground adjacent thereto.

Abstract: A method for connecting a first component to a second component, the method including: applying a fastening dome composed of material in a viscous state to the first component, hardening the fastening dome on the first component, and then inserting a connecting element through the first component, second component, and at least partially through the fastening dome.

Abstract: Compost cover tie-down systems for securing a compost cover using a perimeter element, struts and lashes are disclosed, wherein the lashes apply force to the struts which thereby apply a force to the perimeter element to aid in securing a compost cover. Configurations of struts for use with compost cover tie-down systems are also disclosed, which include perimeter engagement portions and lash engagement portions. Multiple configurations of the systems, struts, and lashes as well as methods of using the same are also disclosed.

Abstract: Embodiments of an anti-theft apparatus for deterring theft of an article is disclosed. In one embodiment, an anti-theft apparatus comprises a post and a cage removably lockable to and cantileverly extendable from the post for removably enclosing at least a portion of the article to be protected from theft. The cage comprises a top portion formed from a plurality of top members and a plurality of side members extending downwardly from respective outer ends of the top members, and a plurality of spaced apart bands oriented approximately perpendicularly and connected to respective side members of the top portion.

Abstract: Weather protection systems, for use in protecting structures and structural elements during severe weather events, are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods of assembling and installing weather protection systems. Weather protection systems of this invention provide fabric to cover a structural element; the fabric is connected to the structure via a clip. A clip of is invention may include features such as fastening points, anchor points, and engaging members; a clip may also introduce a desirable point of flexibility into a system of this invention. Other features of weather protection systems of this invention may include resin and straps.

Abstract: Weather protection systems, for use in protecting structures and structural elements during severe weather events, are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods of assembling and installing weather protection systems. Weather protection systems of this invention provide fabric to cover a structural element; the fabric is connected to the structure via a clip. A clip of is invention may include features such as fastening points, anchor points, and engaging members; a clip may also introduce a desirable point of flexibility into a system of the invention. Other features of weather protection systems of this invention may include resin and straps.

Abstract: A system for protecting a building is disclosed. The building may stand on the ground surface, and may have a roof. The system comprises a mesh positionable over the roof of the building. The mesh includes a number of edge portions. A frame is secured to the edge portions of the mesh. The frame is composed of a number of elongate rigid members extending along the edge portions of the mesh. The system further includes a number of connectors. Each connector has a first end portion securable to the frame, and a second end portion removably securable to the ground surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (D) for locking/unlocking to the ground (S) of a connecting plate (100) to the ground or to the rim of a basin of a roof element, the plate (100) being on the one hand connected to the rim of the roof element and on the other hand connected to the ground (S) or to the basin rim, the plate (100) being pierced with an orifice (121) coming opposite a hole (200) made in the ground, the locking/unlocking device interacting with the hole (200) made in the ground and resting on the plate (100) for the purpose of attaching the latter. This device is noteworthy in that it comprises an expandable bush (300) changing from a volume called a rest volume allowing it to be inserted into the hole (200) made in the ground to a volume called the expanded volume ensuring its adhesion to the walls (210) of the said hole (200). Applications: attaching swimming pool shelters.

Abstract: A molded decorative yard stake having a basin for containing an animal attractant and a cover removeably locking in place over, and sufficiently spaced from, the basin to permit gradual aerosolization of the animal attractant.

Abstract: An assembly for inhibiting wind erosion including an anchorage structure, an erosion mat and a retaining member. The anchorage structure includes a downwardly facing base surface, an upwardly facing anchorage surface, and a rigid elongate member. The anchorage structure is supportable on its base surface with the elongate member in an upright position. The anchorage structure is disposed within a plant growing medium with the elongate member extending upwardly through the erosion mat. A retaining member is secured to the elongate member and engages the upwardly facing surface of the erosion mat to inhibit the removal of the erosion mat. The assembly can be used in a green roof system by placing a drainage layer on the roof and a filter fabric between the plant growing medium and the drainage layer. The anchorage structure is positioned above the filter fabric.

Abstract: A wind tower transport cover for covering an opening at an end of a wind tower section. The wind tower transport cover includes a main section and a packaging section. The main section is capable of substantially covering the opening at the end of the wind tower section. The packaging section extends from the main section. The packaging section is positionable in a storage configuration where the packaging section is substantially adjacent the main section and wherein the main section is positionable in a shipping configuration where the main section is at least partially within the packaging section.

Abstract: An assembly for inhibiting wind erosion including an anchorage structure, an erosion mat and a retaining member. The anchorage structure includes a downwardly facing base surface, an upwardly facing anchorage surface, and a rigid elongate member. The anchorage structure is supportable on its base surface with the elongate member in an upright position. The anchorage structure is disposed within a plant growing medium with the elongate member extending upwardly through the erosion mat. A retaining member is secured to the elongate member and engages the upwardly facing surface of the erosion mat to inhibit the removal of the erosion mat. The assembly can be used in a green roof system by placing a drainage layer on the roof and a filter fabric between the plant growing medium and the drainage layer. The anchorage structure is positioned above the filter fabric.

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

Abstract: A fire protection system for homes and other structures including a pliable multi-layered shroud of fire-resistant material having an inflatable support structure embedded therein. The inflatable support structure includes a web of inflatable channels for rapid deployment from a folded configuration to an inflated configuration in which the fire-resistant material partially envelops a structure. The shroud is packed in an enclosure having a bi-fold top panel for ease of access. The enclosure also has one or more air hose couplings to which the inflatable support structure is connected for rapid inflation and deployment out of the enclosure. A plurality of tethers are also provided as tie-downs, which anchor the heat resistant shroud. The system affords ample rapid deployment protection from neighboring fires and heat exposure therefrom.

Abstract: A hold-down nail includes two portions, a stake and a washer, that function in combination to secure a sheet or cover over some type of material, such as an earthen material, and thereby protects the material from the elements and prevents movement of the material due to wind, rain, snow, etc. or foot or other type of traffic over the material.

Abstract: A strapping system includes a roof assembly including a plurality of receiving channels; each of the plurality of receiving channels is fastened to interconnected roof materials connected to a roof structure. The roof assembly also includes a plurality of roof channels that are connected by the plurality of receiving channels and fastened to the interconnected roof materials. The strapping assembly also includes a plurality of straps for tying down the roof assembly to a corresponding plurality of anchors. The strapping assembly further includes a plurality of tensioning devices. On opposite sides of the building, each of the plurality of straps is fastened to a corresponding ratchet assembly attached to a corresponding anchor of the plurality of anchors, thereby transferring load from the roof assembly to the foundation of the structure during a high wind storm such as a, hurricane, typhoon, cyclone or a tornado.

Abstract: A modular wind abatement system comprises a plurality of net components, net-to-net connection hardware, net-to-ground anchors and net-to-building anchors. Flexible net-like sheet components are configured and joined into a suitably sized and shaped web fitted in covering relation with a structure, such as a home, building, billboard, motor home, boat, or any other outdoor thing to be protected. Net component sections are joined together to form suitably sized and shaped web using clamp devices. Once formed the web is secured to the ground in at least partial covering relation with the protected structure by suitable ground anchors such that wind forces are transferred to ground anchors. The present invention thus provides a wind abatement device suitable for protecting a wide variety of structures and property from damage resulting from hurricane force winds and windborne debris.

Abstract: An assembly and method for facilitating the attachment of a metal alloy hood to the concrete shell of a spray absorber tower, and compensating for relative radial thermal expansion of the hood and the shell during start up, shut down, and operation of the spray absorber tower, while also providing accurate and effective distribution of shear forces circumferentially along a horizontal plane from the metal alloy hood to anchor rods partially embedded in the concrete shell of the spray absorber tower.

Abstract: An device, system and method of using is disclosed to provide a releasably attached external tension member(s), earth anchor(s), net(s), means for adjusting and means for attaching to the earth anchor(s) to accomplish an emergency structure restraint system.

Abstract: A system and method for protecting a structure from wind damage utilizes a netting 12 positioned over the roof of the structure and a plurality of ground anchors 16, 17 at least partially below ground level and spaced from the structure. A plurality of perimeter cables 18, 20, 34 are each spaced about a perimeter portion of a netting when deployed, and a plurality of tie-downs 22 each interconnect one of the plurality of perimeter cables to a respective one of the plurality of anchors.

Abstract: A security container is detailed which has an outer housing and an inner housing there within and a tether located between the inner housing and the outer housing. The container is arranged to be secured to a surface so as to anchor the container when in use. In particular, the base of the container contains a first pair of bolt down bosses and a second pair of bolt down bosses, through which the container is to be bolted to the surface. The tether has a loop at each of a first end and a second end thereof. The loops are each arranged to be placed over a separate boss when in use.

Abstract: Modular inflatable cover for buildings, comprising separate coaxial conduits (30) secured together by tensionable link (50) and fluid-connected by coaxial inflatable tube (24). Tube (24) securely embraces sliders (32) that in turn closely but freely embrace conduits (30). Sliders (32) are urged by springs (34) to keep tube (24) taught. Elastic cinctures (26) on tube (24) and springs (34) tensionably cooperate against inflation means to provide reliable control of openings between adjacent modules in an assembly. Conduits (30) are securely torqued to ground anchors (40) by coupling (42). End covers (44) and sliders (32) are provided to compensate for and facilitate length shrinkage of tube (24), upon inflation. The present invention provides a variable cover with integral support that is uniquely capable of exploiting canyons and other ground depressions for an unprecedented scale of environment control. Applications include greenhouses, shutters, insulation and shelters.

Abstract: A clamping unit comprising a base having a first jaw and a spike and the spike extends from the first jaw, and the first jaw has a first jaw spring recess. There is a second jaw having a second jaw spring recess. A torsion spring positioned in the first and second jaw spring recesses and attached to the first jaw and the second jaw, such that the torsion spring is disposed internal to the clamping unit. The first jaw has a crest and the second jaw has a trough and the crest of the first jaw is receivable in the trough of the second jaw and the torsion spring is for forcing the first and second jaws into a closed position.

Abstract: Weather protection systems, for use in protecting structures and structural elements during severe weather events, are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods of assembling and installing weather protection systems. Weather protection systems of this invention provide fabric to cover a structural element; the fabric is connected to the structure via a clip. A clip of is invention may include features such as fastening points, anchor points, and engaging members; a clip may also introduce a desirable point of flexibility into a system of this invention. Other features of weather protection systems of this invention may include resin and straps.

Abstract: Weather protection systems, for use in protecting structures and structural elements during severe weather events, are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods of assembling and installing weather protection systems. Weather protection systems of this invention provide fabric to cover a structural element; the fabric is connected to the structure via a clip. A clip of is invention may include features such as fastening points, anchor points, and engaging members; a clip may also introduce a desirable point of flexibility into a system of the invention. Other features of weather protection systems of this invention may include resin and straps.

Abstract: A roof anchoring kit includes a number of bracing plates, each bracing plate having two spaced apart plate ports, for placing on top of a roof panel; a number of loop forming members passing through the opposing plate ports of each bracing plate, and for passing through openings in an abutting roof panel and around a corresponding roof beam below the bracing plate, and for tying to form a loop securing the corresponding bracing plate, the adjacent roof panel and roof beam together; a number of tie down lines connected to a linear series of the loop forming members and extending across the roof and then down to part of one of a building wall and a foundation or to where the end of the tie down line is tied; and a number of crossing lines extending perpendicular to the tie down lines and connected to a series of the loop forming members on a series of roof beams, where ends of the tie down lines and crossing lines are anchored.

Abstract: A tarpaulin mounting frame for tightening a tarpaulin includes a frame profile having at least one groove. A anchor profile having a rounded-off foot on its edge facing the tarpaulin, wherein the rounded-off foot is insertable into the groove of the frame profile and is pivotable therein. The anchor profile has at least one receptacle for a weatherstrip, wherein the anchor profile reaches a position substantially parallel to the plane of the tarpaulin by pivoting around the foot and thereby tightens the tarpaulin, wherein the anchor profile between the foot and the receptacle for the weatherstrip is in contact with the frame profile.

Abstract: A roof securing system for protecting the roof a structure from being damaged from high winds during a hurricane includes a plurality of panels. Each of the panels is positioned on a roof of a structure to inhibit a roof covering from is removed by the high winds. The panels are selectively coupled together to cover the roof. Each of a plurality of connectors is configured to secure together adjacently positioned ones of the panels. Each of a plurality of traversing straps is positionable adjacent to a juncture of adjacently positioned panels. Each of the traversing straps extends over the roof. Each of a plurality of anchoring pins is coupled to a support surface. Each of a plurality of anchoring straps is coupled to and extends between one of the traversing straps and one of the anchoring pins to secure the traversing straps against the roof.

Abstract: A multiple use device constructed of either closed or open cell insulated foam ball with a wood or plastic steak molded into such ball for the purpose of inserting in sand or soil which will be utilized in the beach and boating recreational environments allowing the user to be able to secure there beach blanket to the device by a spring loaded clip and thus prevent such blanket or attached article(magazine, newspaper, etc) from blowing away by prevailing winds. The second objective is to allow the user to insert there beverage into a cylindrical opening at the top of such foam ball for the purpose of insulating such beverage from ambient temperatures. The cylindrical opening has sufficient length and rigidity to hold a fishing pole when surf casting at the ocean or any body of water were the unit can be inserted in soft ground. The foam ball buoy as a floatation device has multiple uses in the boating and fishing category were such unit can be used for an line, net or trap marker.

Abstract: A system and method for protecting a structure from wind damage utilizes a netting 12 positioned over the roof of the structure and a plurality of ground anchors 16, 17 at least partially below ground level and spaced from the structure. A plurality of perimeter cables 18, 20, 34 are each spaced about a perimeter portion of a netting when deployed, and a plurality of tie-downs 22 each interconnect one of the plurality of perimeter cables to a respective one of the plurality of anchors.

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

Abstract: A cover system for septic tanks adapted to be attached to the a septic tank and provide access for repair and maintenance. The assembly includes a base which is embedded into the concrete and provides a seal between the concrete and the base. A pipe member is joined to and sits atop the stationary base member. A wrap made of high density polyethylene surrounds the pipe and covers its corrugations to reduce outside forces upon the pipe. Finally, there is a top cover which is designed to engage the top of the pipe. Additionally, a channel is provided to catch the edge of the pipe and a seal is provided to prevent leakage between the pipe and cover.

Abstract: A protective tarp for covering a mass includes of a flat, flexible sheet material having a top and a bottom and having a peripheral edge, e.g. a plurality of edges. Along the peripheral edge or along each of at least two of the plurality of edges, there is a plurality of unconnected tank compartment anchors, arranged in a predetermined pattern, that have at least one fill orifice and closure means for the fill orifice. The plurality of tank compartment anchors are hollow, flexible tank compartment anchors, and, in preferred embodiments, the tank compartment anchors and sheet material are formed of the same material. In some embodiments, the sheet material is rectangular from a top view and has four edges, the four edges being two sets of two opposite edges. There are at least two edges opposite one another which contain a plurality of tank compartment anchors.

Abstract: A portable, modular greenhouse system that can be used to protect plants from harsh conditions. A green house according to the invention comprises a frame and a cover. The frame preferably comprises at least one panel constructed from a mesh of rigid wire, with a spacing between adjacent wires which is large enough to permit a gardener's hand to pass therethrough. The panels are preferably flexible and resilient, so that they return to their original shape after being bent. The cover preferably has sleeves formed in opposite edges thereof. Slats may be inserted into the sleeves, so that when the cover is on the frame the slats are located near the bottom of the frame, thereby weighing down the cover to keep it in place. The ends of the slats may be inserted through the mesh of the panels to further secure the cover to the frame.

Abstract: A system for utilizing a hazardous apparatus with a pad of fibrous fabric embedded in cement to shield a protectable surface from hazards produced by the hazardous apparatus.

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.

Abstract: A protective tarp for covering a mass includes of a flat, flexible sheet material having a top and a bottom and having a peripheral edge, e.g. a plurality of edges. Along the peripheral edge or along each of at least two of the plurality of edges, there is a plurality of unconnected tank compartment anchors, arranged in a predetermined pattern, that have at least one fill orifice and closure means for the fill orifice. The plurality of tank compartment anchors are hollow, flexible tank compartment anchors, and, in preferred embodiments, the tank compartment anchors and sheet material are formed of the same material. In some embodiments, the sheet material is rectangular from a top view and has four edges, the four edges being two sets of two opposite edges. There are at least two edges opposite one another which contain a plurality of tank compartment anchors.

Abstract: A fire protection system that covers and protects a structure from fire and other hazards. The system, which is electronically actuated, comprises primarily poles located on opposite sides of the structure, and a flexible fire retardant cover stored on a reel. Cables attached to the flexible fire retardant cover pull it over the structure, when the system is actuated, to form a protective tent.

Abstract: The present invention is a transportable weather shield having a sheet, first and second supports, first and second tensioners, and first and second stakes. The first support has an upper portion that is connected to a first end of the sheet and a generally arcuate-shaped lower portion. The first tensioner is connected to the first end of the sheet and to the first stake. The second support has an upper portion that is connected to the second end of the sheet and a generally arcuate-shaped lower portion. The second tensioner is connected to the second end of the sheet and to the second stake. The weather shield, upon erection, is compliant. A position of the sheet is adjustable by an angular displacement of the first and second supports.

Abstract: A safety grate (10) is provided for a garden pond by mounting a grate (10) below the anticipated surface of the water in the pond. This reduces the risk of drowning in the pond, predators catching fish in the pond and animals swimming or rolling in the pond, while preserving the aesthetics of the garden pond. The grate (10) may have larger openings in it for plants and fish or for access to equipment in the pond. The openings may be covered with an access hatch to allow brackets, a support stand and/or a shelf to support the grate (10) at the desired depth in the pond.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an outdoor tent, which includes of a flat, flexible sheet material for its main body. Along the peripheral edge (i.e. near the bottom edge) or along each of at least two of the plurality of edges, there is at least one, and preferably, a plurality of tank compartment anchors, each having at least one fill orifice and closure means for the fill orifice. The plurality of tank compartment anchors are hollow, flexible tank compartment anchors, and, in preferred embodiments, the tank compartment anchors and sheet material are formed of the same material. In some preferred embodiments, the tank compartment anchors also have drain plugs.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an outdoor tent, which includes of a flat, flexible sheet material for its main body. Along the peripheral edge (i.e. near the bottom edge) or along each of at least two of the plurality of edges, there is at least one, and preferably, a plurality of tank compartment anchors, each having at least one fill orifice and closure means for the fill orifice. The plurality of tank compartment anchors are hollow, flexible tank compartment anchors, and, in preferred embodiments, the tank compartment anchors and sheet material are formed of the same material. In some preferred embodiments, the tank compartment anchors also have drain plugs.