Abstract: Deployable support structures include a six-bar linkage structure as a lateral facet of a truncated pyramid. The six-bar linkage structure comprises six articulated struts, each coupled to two others by a revolute joint to form a closed loop. The six-bar linkage structure is convertible from a deployed state into a folded state and vice versa. In the deployed state of one embodiment, the six-bar linkage structure forms a trapezoid with two opposing first and second parallel sides formed by two struts arranged in series and coupled by a revolute joint at the center of the parallel sides. In the folded state, the two struts of each parallel side are pivoted around the joint so that opposing end portions of the struts are located side by side. Scalable and modular deployable structures can be made for space applications as well as civil constructions such as domes, roofs, housing, tents, and bridges.

Abstract: A self-mounting modular structure comprises profiled peripheral columns (1, T) which exhibit upper overlapped and spaced fulcrums (2, 2?), wherein the rear portions of two series of crosspieces (3, 3?) engage, the front ends whereof connect to upper (4) and lower (41) fulcrums of the central support rack (5) of a control unit (6) the stem whereof (7) connects, through a coaxial joint (8) and movable radial levers (9), to the front extensions (3?) of the lower crosspieces (31). In feedback, the stem (7) rises and pushes the columns (1, T) outwards, which move on standard or roller tracked wheels (11), causing the lifting in the middle and “at the ceiling” of the crosspieces (3, 3?), located within the same columns. Peripheral section bars (19), also comprised in closure in the peripheral columns (1, T), delimit the structure with roll-up sheets (21), along with an upper cover (22) engaged, in the middle, with said rack (5).

Abstract: A lattice structure which is movable to and fro between a condition folded out and a condition folded in, wherein the lattice structure includes props extending in longitudinal direction of the lattice structure and wherein the lattice structure furthermore includes struts which connect said props with each other. According to the invention, at least one of the struts has at least one joint about which at least two portions of the strut are pivotable relative to each other, and that at least one of the struts has no such joint.

Abstract: An anti-theft device is provided comprising a frame comprising at least three interconnected sides. A plurality of interconnected frame members define the at least three interconnected sides of the device. A longitudinal extent or a vertical extent of one of the interconnected frame members is slidably movable within a bore of a longitudinal extent or a vertical extent of another of the interconnected frame members to a desired position, thereby allowing the device to be adjusted in one of a horizontal or vertical direction. The plurality of interconnected frame members define at least a rectangular-shaped region on each of the at least three interconnected sides.

Abstract: A locking collar that surrounds a hub of a space frame structure. Struts radiating from the hub pass through openings in the locking collar. The openings each have a size relative to a width of each of the struts that provides a locking action to the struts and limits movement of the struts, which gives support to a shape of the space frame. The locking collar provides support to beams of wood or other materials that are attached to the struts without placing stress on the hub.

Abstract: A modular frame and structure system and method includes a framework and a cover coupled to the framework and configured to provide a desired structure. The framework includes a plurality of elongated frame members, and a plurality of coupling members for coupling the elongated frame members. One or more of the coupling members includes a releasable connecting device having a connecting mode for connecting the coupling members to the frame members and form the framework, the releasable connecting device having a release mode for disconnecting the elongated frame members from the coupling members. The cover includes one or more interlocking wall panels configured to engage and be supported by the elongated frame members, and one or more interlocking roof panels configured to engage and be supported by the elongated frame members.

Abstract: A deployable truss with modified primary orthogonal joints. The construction of these joints causes the center-hinged primary chords on opposite sides of a truss bay to fold inward in a plane orthogonal to the folding planes of the side diagonals while the two secondary chords fold in planes orthogonal to the plane of the in-folding primary chords. This provides for stiffness and stability during deploy and retract. The unique joint configuration permits the truss to deploy one bay at a time in a stable manner while having lateral bending stiffness, and the truss thus can extend and retract in a sequential manner. It can deploy integral flat panels nested between the secondary folding chords, or use cross bracing in lieu of panels. The truss can be triangular, square or rectangular in cross-section. A powered support frame may be used in conjunction with the truss.

Abstract: The present invention is a framing system for resolving vertical and horizontal movements in light gage, cold formed, steel stud framing. It utilizes at least one corner hinge and a plurality of pivoting stud clips (one for each stud) that accommodate for the deflection of a building as it encounters environmental changes. Additional hinges may be placed axially, along the wall and at the top and bottom of the corner for increased flexibility. Two embodiments of stud pivot clips, one utilizing direct attachment and arcuate slots, the other utilizing a pivotable connection plate, are disclosed; as are two hinge embodiments.

Abstract: A stage comprising a support structure, a stage platform supported by the support structure and a fenced enclosure provided above the stage platform. The support structure includes an upstanding central support column; upstanding outer support columns provided around the central support column substantially equidistant from the central support column with adjacent pairs of the support columns all substantially equidistant; main beam members each extending between the central support column and a respective one of the outer support columns; and transversal beam members each extending between a respective pair of adjacent ones of the outer support columns. The main beam members are fixedly anchored to the central and outer support columns and the transversal beam members are coupled to support channels of the outer support columns while remaining slidable relative thereto.

Abstract: A support system securable between pairs of metal bar joists or beams includes one or more end brackets secured to the top of a first bar joist at one end, and another corresponding number of end brackets secured to the top of a second bar joist opposite the first two end brackets. One or more elongate bars span the distance separating the bar joists. Each elongate bar is secured to one of the end brackets secured to the first bar joist at a first end, and to the respective, aligned end bracket secured to the second bar joist at a second end. Cross members, each defined by a pair T-shaped bracket assemblies having cross bars secured thereto, are secured between the elongate bars.

Abstract: A tent includes a tent cloth and a tent frame to support the tent cloth. The tent frame comprises a top module and a plurality of supporting poles which are radially pivoted to the top module. The top module includes a modular main body, a top cap and a quick-pitch assembly. The modular main body includes a plurality of pivot sockets which are integrally formed with the modular main body. Each pivot socket is pivotally connected with a connector. The connector is further connected to the respective supporting pole. The connector has a top engaging portion at a pivot end thereof to mate with the quick-pitch assembly. The top cap is coupled to the modular main body to form a middle space. The quick-pitch assembly is located in the middle space and able to move up and down.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a connection device installed on a top of a canopy tent, comprising: a main body having a hollow interior, a sliding member having an interior with a downwardly protruding cylinder, support poles each having one end hinged to the main body, and the other end connected to a tent pole for standing the tent fabric upright, a joint bar having one end hinged to the sliding member, and the other end having one side hinged to a first connection bar hinged to the support pole and the other side hinged to a second connection bar hinged to the main body; The hollow interior of the main body is equipped with a compression spring and a spring holder. The cylinder of the sliding member is fitted into the hollow interior of the main body from the top of the hollow interior to be movable in the upward and downward directions to set up or taken of the tent canopy.

Abstract: A frame system suitable for use on a boat and capable of supporting one or more tarpaulins to protect the boat from the elements, comprising one or more sets of couplers and angle elements adapted to be used with off-the-shelf connecting members, such as PVC pipes, such that when assembled the frame system provides a canopy frame arching over the top side of the boat, with the lateral sides of the frame system sloping upward and meeting over the longitudinal midline of the boat.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a lattice support structure having longitudinally extending supports which are connected to one another by obliquely extending struts and are also connected to one another in the state of the lattice support structure ready for operation by transversely extending struts provided with a joint, with the struts being pivotably connected to two respective preferably adjacent supports, with at least one connection strut being provided which connects two supports to one another which are not adjacent to one another and which are preferably disposed opposite one another, and with the at least one connection strut and/or at least one component of the lattice support structure connected thereto having fastening means or being connected or connectable thereto, with the fastening means being made such that they prevent a folding together of the lattice support structure in at least one position.

Abstract: A configuration, all components of which are man portable in some embodiments, for holding panels to protect assets against external force and impacts from airborne projectiles. An open box-like stackable frame module holds panels along a side of the frame. Multiple frames are connected to construct a protective barrier, such as a wall. Frames include provisions for connection in a vertical configuration so as to allow stacking of the frames to increase the height of the barrier. A method of installing is also provided.

Abstract: A deployable truss that extends and retracts in a stable and synchronous manner, and can deploy integral folding panels. Primary orthogonal joints, each consisting of two hinged halves, connect rotationally to the truss diagonals with an angled fitting. The main hinge pin of the orthogonal joints remains orthogonal to the truss longitudinal axis and remains centered in the folding truss diagonals. Hinge pins of each truss joint are connected by center-folding chords which cause the truss joints of adjacent bays to remain parallel to each other. Folding diagonals connected to the primary joint halves are hinged together, permitting the diagonals on each side of the truss to remain parallel to each as they form the short sides of a rectangular truss. The truss may deploy z-folded panels with active surfaces such as photovoltaic, reflective, heat-radiating, LCD/plasma, or radar; or structural floor panels for folding work platforms, bridges, and walkways.

Abstract: Shape-shifting surfaces that retain their effectiveness as physical barriers while undergoing changes in shape. The shape changes include any motion that makes the surface more effective at performing its function, such as expansion, shrinkage, twisting, encircling, wiggling, swallowing or constricting. The shape-shifting surfaces include tiled arrays of polygonal cells, each cell including specifically-designed compliant flexures attached to specifically-shaped overlapping thin plates or shells. Applications for such surfaces include micro-scale cellular engineering and macro-scale biomedical applications, recreational uses, national security, and environmental protection.

Abstract: An element is provided for connecting the chords of a lattice system, which consists of upper chords and lower chords, between which struts and/or stays are arranged, to a telescopic boom head. Thereby, the lower chords are directly connected to the telescopic boom head by means of bolts, while the upper chords can be connected to the telescopic boom head by a connecting element of variable length in such a way that—with respect to the connection of the lower chords—the upper chords can be connected to one another at a variable angle, and wherein the connecting element consists of two butt straps which can each be fastened at one end of mutually facing ends of the upper chords and can be connected to one another at different points.

Abstract: A support system for a solar panel includes a triangular truss with connection points for mounting a photovoltaic module, and a cradle structure that supports the triangular truss and is connected to at least two side supports of the triangular truss. The cradle structure may be driven for rotation about an axis for tracking the sun and several cradle structures can be linked together for tracking movement using a buried linkage system. The truss may also be foldable for ease of transportation and storage.

Abstract: Multistable shape-shifting surfaces that retain their effectiveness as physical barriers while undergoing changes in shape and that can remain stable in the various shapes. The shape changes include any motion that makes the surface more effective at performing its function, such as expansion, shrinkage, twisting, encircling, wiggling, swallowing or constricting. The shape-shifting surfaces include tiled arrays of polygonal cells, each cell including specifically-designed compliant flexures attached to specifically-shaped overlapping thin plates or shells. The surfaces remain stable by leveraging them during deformation to an extent that they cannot spontaneously return to the unstressed shape. Applications for such surfaces include micro-scale cellular engineering and macro-scale biomedical applications, recreational uses, national security, and environmental protection.

Abstract: A folding beam system 16 for use in the assembly of pre-fabricated modular building units having beam members 20, 22 for supporting the floor and ceiling structures of the modular unit, said beam members being adjacent to each other when the modular units are arranged in a vertical stack, an open web structure 24 pivotally associated with one of the beam members 20 to allow the web structure 24 to be folded from a stored position, to an operative position in which the web structure is connected to the other beam member 22 of a vertically adjacent unit to form a structural truss 16 between the adjacent units, and means 28, 29 for locking the web structure to the other beam 22 in the operative position.

Abstract: A plurality of structural members configured to be coupled together to form an array. Each structural member includes a top portion having a plurality of top extending members spaced apart from one another and a bottom portion having a plurality of bottom extending members spaced apart from one another. The top extending members and bottom extending members can be vertically offset from each other. The top portion of each structural member can be coupled to the bottom portion of another structural member, and each top extending member of a structural member can be coupled to a bottom extending member of another structural member.

Abstract: An adjustable support system and method for supporting for an operable partition includes an adjustable length overhead truss. The adjustable length overhead truss is supported at opposite ends by first and second vertical supports. A track is coupled to the adjustable length overhead truss, and a plurality of wall panels are coupled to the track. The plurality of wall panels are movable from a folded storage position to a deployed use position to form a wall under the adjustable length overhead truss.

Abstract: A protective enclosure for protecting well head equipment at a surface location is made up of an open framework of structural members which surround and protect the well head. Individual steel panels are assembled to form a series of upstanding walls which are covered by a series of roof panels and which together define the quasi-enclosed area surrounding the well head. The roof panels are covered with a steel grating which forms a covered roof for the protective enclosure. The tubing which makes up the steel panels is spaced to allow access to the enclosed area by a worker needing to access the well head. The steel panels are joined with lever latch and keeper assemblies which facilitate the job of disassembling the enclosure. The upright panels also have telescoping legs which can be extended and cemented into the ground for added stability.

Abstract: A pre-fabrication of a modular reinforcement cage for high-rise concrete construction is provided. The primary vertical bars, often referred to as the longitudinal bars, are held in formation by a set of templates that are manufactured to the design of the construction. These templates ensure accurate placement of the vertical bars and provides great rigidity for the module when being placed in the field. The main vertical bars can have thread-like deformations along the length of the bar, and are locked in place by use of compatible hardware against the templates. Multiple modules can then be stacked and coupled by use of mechanical couplings as construction continues.

Abstract: A pre-fabrication of a modular reinforcement cage for high-rise concrete construction is provided. The primary vertical bars, often referred to as the longitudinal bars, are held in formation by a set of templates that are manufactured to the design of the construction. These templates ensure accurate placement of the vertical bars and provides great rigidity for the module when being placed in the field. The main vertical bars can have thread-like deformations along the length of the bar, and are locked in place by use of compatible hardware against the templates. Multiple modules can then be stacked and coupled by use of mechanical couplings as construction continues.

Abstract: A novel building block is described which is formed of two similar interlocking elements with chamfered surfaces to allow the elements to rest against each other. In one embodiment, the block is used to made structural walls, In another embodiment, a single block with a transparent or translucent pane is provided to form a window. In yet another embodiment, a building is made with at least one floor, one roof and support structures supporting the roof and being formed of the interlocking elements. Each element is made of L-shaped components.

Abstract: A deployable truss that extends and retracts in a stable and synchronous manner, and can deploy integral folding panels. Primary orthogonal joints, each consisting of two hinged halves, connect rotationally to the truss diagonals with an angled fitting. The main hinge pin of the orthogonal joints remains orthogonal to the truss longitudinal axis and remains centered in the folding truss diagonals. Hinge pins of each truss joint are connected by center-folding chords which cause the truss joints of adjacent bays to remain parallel to each other. Folding diagonals connected to the primary joint halves are hinged together, permitting the diagonals on each side of the truss to remain parallel to each as they form the short sides of a rectangular truss. The truss may deploy z-folded panels with active surfaces such as photovoltaic, reflective, heat-radiating, LCD/plasma, or radar; or structural floor panels for folding work platforms, bridges, and walkways.

Abstract: Provided is a movable tensegrity structure capable of performing bending operation, twisting operation, contracting operation, etc. by itself. The movable tensegrity structures (1, 1*, 10) is constituted by combining a plurality of rigid members (2, 11) and tension members (3, 12) for connecting the end points (E, F) of the rigid members (2, 11), respectively. The tensegrity structure is characterized in that all or a part of the plurality of tension members (3, 12) is formed of a contraction-controllable member.

Abstract: A lattice support structure has lattice bars pivotally connected to one another and extending in the longitudinal direction of the lattice support structure as well as lattice bars connecting them, with the connecting lattice bars being connected directly or indirectly to the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction such that the spacing of the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction of the lattice support structure can be decreased on the inward folding of the lattice support structure and increased on the folding apart of the lattice support structure.

Abstract: A self-mounting modular structure comprises profiled peripheral columns (1, T) which exhibit upper overlapped and spaced fulcrums (2, 2?), wherein the rear portions of two series of crosspieces (3, 3?) engage, the front ends whereof connect to upper (4) and lower (41) fulcrums of the central support rack (5) of a control unit (6) the stem whereof (7) connects, through a coaxial joint (8) and movable radial levers (9), to the front extensions (3?) of the lower crosspieces (31). In feedback, the stem (7) rises and pushes the columns (1, T) outwards, which move on standard or roller tracked wheels (11), causing the lifting in the middle and “at the ceiling” of the crosspieces (3, 3?), located within the same columns. Peripheral section bars (19), also comprised in closure in the peripheral columns (1, T), delimit the structure with roll-up sheets (21), along with an upper cover (22) engaged, in the middle, with said rack (5).

Abstract: A collapsible truss assembly is described herein. One component includes a layered u-bracket including a first u-bracket connected to the collapsible truss assembly, having a first channel, a first surface opposing the channel, and a first aperture that spans from the first surface to the first channel and is of a particular diameter. The layered u-bracket also includes a second u-bracket having a second channel, a second surface opposing the second channel, and a second aperture that spans from the second surface to the second channel and is of the particular diameter. For the layered u-bracket, the second channel is flush with the first surface, and the first and second apertures are aligned.

Abstract: Prefabricated foldable building units are described that have one or more of the following advantages. They are more easily prefabricated, more easily transported to building sites without requiring special permits, unloadable and unfoldable at the building sites without using cranes (they can be unloaded using ground-level lifting rigs and unfolded using, for example, a cable mechanism), allow precise and fast completion at the building site, and allow significant reduction in the scope of work to be completed on-site, where costs and scheduling are far less manageable. Further, methods for unloading and unfolding foldable building units are described that obviate the need for one or more cranes that can be expensive and project-complicating, thereby opening up a significant percentage of building sites for placement of prefabricated foldable building units.

Abstract: A mounting bracket mechanism includes a first stand, at least one beam locked on the first stand, at least one second stand disposed on a side of the first stand and locked on an end of the beam in an adjustable manner relative to the beam, and least one hanger for connecting a monitor and hanging the monitor on the beam so as to fix the monitor.

Abstract: Truss structures assembled from modules comprising one hinge link, four spacer links and four apex joinders, one at each end or each hinge link. The second hinge link to complete a tetrahedron is missing from the module, and is provided by the hinge link of a next in line module so as to provide a series of joined tetrahedrons. When the strut is assembled, the apex joinders enable the strut to be formed into a wide variety of shapes.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved apparatus and method for forming a retractable tower or column. The present invention includes pointed hooks wherein the hooks are attached to each section of a section chain, one in a horizontal direction and one in an off-set manner. The section chains are placed on a take up mechanism in an operable position and then raised utilizing a motor. As the section chains are raised, they are guided by a guide tower, rollers, shims, and gear racks into a position whereby hooks from adjacent sections of the section chains form coupled engagements. The coupled engagement of the hooks of the sections of each adjacent section chains thereby form the column.

Abstract: A device supporting a first and a second element of a piece of space equipment. The device includes at least two deployable flexible arms each having a first end and a second end, the ends are secured respectively to the first and second elements and each designed to adopt at least one initial position folded in curves and an unfolded final position, in which positions they hold the first element away from the second element by first and second chosen distances respectively, the second distance being greater than the first.

Abstract: Pointer analysis is used for different applications, e.g., compilers, debugging tools and programs understanding tools, each having different requirements. A framework for pointer analysis is provided that defines a multidimensional space, for example a three-dimensional space, containing an order sensitivity dimension, a predicate sensitivity dimension and a value persistence dimension. A point in the three-dimensional space is identified. This point yields values for order sensitivity, predicate sensitivity and value persistence. Pointer analysis is then conducted on a computer program in accordance with the identified values for order sensitivity, predicate sensitivity and value persistence.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a lattice structure which is adjustable between a condition folded in and a condition folded out, wherein the lattice structure includes longitudinally extending props which in the condition of the lattice structure folded out are connected with each other by obliquely extending struts, wherein the obliquely extending struts are directly or indirectly pivotally arranged on the longitudinally extending props and wherein at least one of the obliquely extending struts has a first portion and a second portion which are connected with each other in an articulated manner such that their angle to each other becomes smaller on folding in the lattice structure.

Abstract: A device (1) for separating regions of a space, with at least one ceiling rail (3) for pressing on the ceiling (4) of the space, with at least one wall rail for making contact with the wall (7) of the space and with at least one floor rail (8) for resting on the floor (9) of the space. In order to prevent passage of dust through the separated region of the space, there is least one diagonal brace (36) for detachable mounting on the wall rail (5) and the floor rail (8) outside of the corner region (37) between the wall rail (5) and the floor rail (8) and for applying pressure to the middle region (38) of the wall rail (5) and that the diagonal brace (36) has a length which is greater than half the length of the wall rail (5).

Abstract: A barrier or dam to contain loose insulation from falling through an attic access hatch or scuttle opening is provided. Embodiments include four pieces that can be assembled together around the perimeter of hatches of varying sizes. Two of the pieces may be male pieces and two may be female pieces. Each piece may have a securing tab on its bottom end to attach each piece to joists that define the hatch opening. A kit comprising the barrier pieces may be utilized by homeowners, contractors or insulation installers for quick and easy installation of the containment dam.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an articulating mast having sections that may be moved between an open, in-use position and a more compact reduced width configuration for storage and transportation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a connecting node (10, 20) for constructing a three-dimensional framework (100), in particular a geodetic structure, wherein the connecting node (10, 20) has at least one connecting arrangement for connection by way of a definable number of (n) of basic structural elements (3) attached to the respective connecting node (10, 20) with other identical connecting nodes (10, 20). It is provided that the connecting node (10, 20) is formed as a disk (4, 6) having a predefinable number (n) of keyholes (1n), with each of the keyholes (1n) being penetrated by a connecting means (5) and engaging with a receiving element (3A) attached on the basic structural elements (3n), so that each basic structural element (3n) is rotatably supported in the formed first connecting arrangement (5, 3A) and can be pre-adjusted and subsequently attached at arbitrary predefinable angles.

Abstract: Collapsible portable self-supporting shelter structures having from at least two component quad sections to seven or more component quad sections, which joined end to end form the width of the structure; and, said entire component sections optionally being joined side to side form a desired depth of the portable shelter. The resulting structure is a collapsible self-supporting prefabricated deployable shelter having a clear span interior without supporting columns. Some versions of the collapsible portable self-supporting shelter structure due to its configuration may optionally contain a floating hub which is a top element extending above the structure's standard exterior matrix frame. The floating hub forms a high pitch atop the shelter, which high pitch causes the fabric, which covers the matrix frame, to be maintained in a taut downward-sloping condition over the shelter top surface so no rain or snow collects in the fabric at the top of the shelter.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a lattice support structure having mutually connected lattice bars, wherein the lattice support structure has lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction of the lattice support structure as well as lattice bars connecting them directly or indirectly, wherein the connecting lattice bars are connected to the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction such that the spacing of the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction of the lattice support structure can be reduced on the folding in of the lattice support structure and can be enlarged on the unfolding of the lattice support structure, wherein at least one of the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction is arranged stationary such that it is in a fixed position on the folding and unfolding of the lattice support structure; and in that at least one further of the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction is arranged movable so that it undergoes a movement on the folding and on

Abstract: A flexible hinge including a first set of plies and a second set of plies, and a hinge area where the first set of plies and the second set of plies bend. A damping material is disposed between plies of the first set and the second set at least at the hinge area thereof to control the deployment of the hinge.

Abstract: An integrally assembled changeable framework connector used for a spatial structure includes a framework, a predetermined quantity of protruded connecting bases and a specific quantity of positioning element. The framework is a predetermined shaped axial rod, which acts as a main body of the whole connector. The protruded connecting base has a specific quantity of protruding bodies extended in different positions and directions and disposed on a predetermined shaped base body and along the peripheral surface of the framework, and fixed onto the framework by a positioning element to form a connector used for connecting various different spatial structures in any direction and position. An axial pipe and a lateral connecting element are used for connecting the connectors to form the spatial structure. The shapes of the framework, the protruded connecting base and the positioning element can be changed to fit the shape and the connection of the spatial structure.

Abstract: An exhibit or display for tradeshows or the like having a plurality of support members and an axial connection assembly. The support members include opposing ends and a body portion, and further include an exterior channel and a central bore, the channel defining a flange portion and the bore being in communication with a retention feature. The axial connection assembly is configured to releasably couple an end of a first support member to an end of a second support member such that the two support members are axially aligned. The axial connection assembly includes a collar releasably coupled in the bore of each member, with each collar including at least one locator portion to interact with the retention feature, and a pin having a mid portion and two ends, the mid portion configured to be rotatably selectively restrained within the collar.

Abstract: A multi-section folding tower for supporting wind turbines, windmills, power generation, communication, lighting, and measurement machines comprises an upper tower section and a lower tower section pivotally connected at an upper hinge, a lever, and a lower hinge attaching the lower tower section to an anchor foundation not requiring concrete wherein equipment mounted to the top of the tower is accessible by lowering a portion of the tower. The two tower sections and lever are assembled on the ground by connecting the upper and lower sections with a hinge, and the lower tower section is hinged to the tower foundation. The hinged tower sections are raised by first pulling the lower tower section to a vertical position, and a removable installation wheel attached to the tower top enables the lower section to be raised to a vertical position. The upper section is raised to a vertical position by pulling the lever.

Abstract: A freestanding, collapsible shelter is disclosed. The shelter includes a roof structure having a roof hub, a ridge poles pivotable from a deployed position to a stowed position, gable poles pivotable from a deployed position to a stowed position. The shelter further includes a freestanding leg section that supports the roof structure over a supporting surface when the shelter is disposed in its deployed position. The shelter may also include a canopy.