Abstract: The invention relates to an openable roof or openable wall, comprising at least one section (1) extending along a longitudinal axis, each section comprising a plurality of panels (2a, 2) overlapping in pairs along said longitudinal axis, whose longitudinal edge portions (39) are movably received in guide rails (4) for the purpose of opening and closing. Each panel (2, 2a) has, on its second transverse edge portion (38), a first (21) and a second (27) sealing strip, which between them define a gap (28). This gap (28) cooperates with a bottom surface (31) of the inner longitudinal surfaces (14) of the guide rails (4) to form a draining channel (29) along said bottom surface and away from said first sealing strip (21).

Abstract: A revolving canopy roof for a stadium includes a fixed half dome and revolving half dome. The fixed half dome has an outer layer clad with a plurality of shading tents, the plurality of shading tents comprising a plurality of triangular shading panels, an inner layer clad with a plurality of triangular ethylene tetraflouroethylene panels, and a plurality of bracing elements connecting the outer layer to the inner layer. The revolving half dome includes an outer layer clad with a plurality of shading tents, the plurality of shading tents comprising a plurality of triangular shading panels, an inner layer clad with a plurality of triangular ethylene tetraflouroethylene panels, and a plurality of bracing elements connecting the outer layer to the inner layer.

Abstract: A retractable enclosure includes moveable bays that telescopically retract inside each other. Each bay is made from two or more vertical framing sections and a plurality of first framing members. Each vertical framing section can be made from a plurality of second framing members. Assembly rods are provided to couple the vertical framing sections and are tensioned to load the first framing members in longitudinal compression. The framing members are fastenable to each other. The second framing members can be held together using splice plates. The retractable enclosure may also include a drive system. A related method of constructing a retractable enclosure is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides a foldable enclosure intending as a building or portion of a building that may be transported to a desired site in a folded configuration and then expanded into its intended form. The enclosure has a floor and two wall or roof support section extending upwardly from opposed sides of the floor section. A first roof section spans across the gap between the wall or roof support sections. At least a second roof section in provided that is pivotally mounted to the structure to overlie the first roof section in transit and fold out to extend outwardly substantially in plane with the first roof section in the expanded form. Similarly, second floor sections may be pivotally mounted to lie adjacent the wall/roof support sections in transit and extend outwardly substantially in plane with the first floor section when expanded.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a roof assembly for covering a region adjacent a structure. The roof assembly comprises a plurality of roof assembly portions, each roof assembly portion comprising a layer portion and a support portion for supporting the layer portion. The roof assembly portions comprise first and second side roof assembly portions, and a corner roof assembly portion that is positioned between the first and second side roof assembly portions. The roof assembly portions are moveable between a retracted and an expanded configuration wherein the side roof assembly portions and the corner roof assembly portion move together between the configurations.

Abstract: A moveable roofing system for covering an interior space includes a fixed half-dome roof fixed to and supported by a first support structure, a rotatable half-dome roof rotatable about and supported by a second support structure, the second support structure being concentric to the first support structure, and, wherein the rotatable half-dome roof is configured to rotate about the second support structure.

Abstract: A microclimate cooling system for an indoor/outdoor stadium includes a partially rotatable roof, the rotatable roof having a first position environmentally sealing an interior of the stadium. and a second position exposing a portion of the interior to the atmosphere, a field surrounded by the stadium, and a tiered seating positioned adjacent a first side of the field. The system further includes a raised concrete barrier adjacent a second side of the pitch opposing the first side of the field, a first wall adjacent a third side of the field, and a second wall adjacent a fourth side of the field, the first and second walls perpendicular to the tiered seating extending between at least a portion of the tiered seating and the raised concrete barrier. The system further includes a plurality of air handling units for supplying cooling air to the tiered seating.

Abstract: A passive indoor/outdoor stadium structure configured to reduce energy demands from the stadium structure includes a moveable roofing system and a micro-climate cooling system. The moveable roofing system covers an interior space of the stadium and has an open position and a closed position. The roofing system includes a fixed half-dome roof and a revolving half dome roof retractable beneath the fixed half dome roof, both the fixed half dome roof and the revolving half dome roof having an outer half dome clad with a plurality of solar hoods positioned in an overlapping arrangement. The micro-climate cooling system for cooling the indoor/outdoor stadium includes a full circulation mode for cooling a stadium volume when the roofing system is in the closed position, and a micro-climate mode for cooling a portion of the stadium volume when the roofing system is in the open position.

Abstract: A revolving canopy roof for a stadium includes a fixed half dome and revolving half dome. The fixed half dome has an outer layer clad with a plurality of shading tents, the plurality of shading tents comprising a plurality of triangular shading panels, an inner layer clad with a plurality of triangular ethylene tetraflouroethylene panels, and a plurality of bracing elements connecting the outer layer to the inner layer. The revolving half dome includes an outer layer clad with a plurality of shading tents, the plurality of shading tents comprising a plurality of triangular shading panels, an inner layer clad with a plurality of triangular ethylene tetraflouroethylene panels, and a plurality of bracing elements connecting the outer layer to the inner layer.

Abstract: A convertible stadium includes a playing field, a seating area, a stationary roof structure and a large, heavy roof panel mounted for movement with respect to the stationary roof structure, A plurality of cable drums are mounted for movement together with the roof panel. Each cable drum has at least one cable wound thereabout. The cable is secured to the stationary roof structure and is payable from the respective cable drum. The system is designed so as to minimize movement between the cable and the roof panel, so there will be no possibility of frictional engagement therebetween.

Abstract: Disclosed is a structure that is a stage and roof system. The present invention is a system that allows a stage and roof system to be moved and folded up into a compact area in a very short period of time to be placed at an event location to broadcast talent directly on or near a terrain.

Abstract: A modular retractable enclosure is provided. The retractable enclosure includes moveable bays that telescopically retract inside each other. Each bay is made from two or more vertical framing sections and a plurality of first framing members. Each vertical framing section can be made from a plurality of second framing members. Assembly rods are provided to couple the vertical framing sections and are tensioned to load the first framing members in longitudinal compression. The framing members are fastenable to each other. The second framing members can be held together using splice plates. The retractable enclosure may also include a drive system. A related method of constructing a retractable enclosure is also provided.

Abstract: This loading bay comprises a compact structure carrying at least one fold-away ramp and a shelter for closing off the space between the shed and the truck box body at the side and at the top during loading or unloading operations. Said compact structure adjoins the wall (P) of the shed on the outside and is set up with the possibility of being removed longitudinally on guide means for positioning the movable assembly in a position opposite any one of the openings (H) providing access to the shed. The loading bay comprises, additionally, motorized actuating means, at least one bar of sensors for detecting the position of the truck while said truck is being moved closer into position, a light-signalling device and a light and/or acoustic signal warning of the approach of a truck.

Abstract: A movable enclosure is configured to selectively enclose an area. The enclosure includes at least one side wall and an end wall attached thereto. The side wall comprises a number of individual panels that are independently movable along a track secured to the ground. The panels are selectively collapsible such that they may travel along the track and overlap one another when in a collapsed or stowed position. The enclosure may be configured in any number of intermediate positions wherein the panels are partially collapsed. Roof panels may be attached to the side walls for movement therewith, or alternatively, the roof panels may operate independent of the side walls to extend and retract between an open and collapsed configuration.

Abstract: A support assembly for supporting a retrofit roof to be installed above an existing roof made of preformed panels. Elongated support assembly members are positioned along the roof line to provide additional points of attachment for the new roof, while at the same time forming a substantially even plane for new rood panels. Some of the support members fit in the channels between the ridges of the preformed panels, which can be R-panels or standing seam panels. Transverse top members secure the channel-mounted members in place, while strapping members positioned atop the top members form additional lateral support for the new roof.

Abstract: A personal observatory structure includes a base having an open top, and a hemispherical dome having a center point. The dome is shaped to be mounted on the base and to selectively enclose the open top. The hemispherical dome includes a first dome segment and a second dome segment pivotally connected to the first dome segment. The second dome segment has an outer radius smaller than the inner radius of the first dome segment. The first dome segment and second dome segment are connected together by pivotal connectors for movement about a pivot axis. One of the domes can be pivoted from a lowered position, in which the dome segments together enclose the open top of the base, to a raised position which exposes the interior and nests one dome segment within the other. The pivot axis may be a horizontal pivot axis that extends through the center point, and the dome segments may be shaped generally in the form of a quarter sphere.

Abstract: A portable fairing for a mobile radar array system includes at least partially open housing surrounding the mobile radar array and a curved covering mounted on the housing. The curved covering is adapted to cover the radar array in a closed position. The sides of the housing are curved such that when the curved covering is closed, the housing and the curved covering form a generally curved structure.

Abstract: The invention is for an improved security shelter for small personal transportation vehicles. The invention features lockable, weatherproof storage for such vehicles as motorcycles, bicycles, four wheelers, and Segways®. It is lightweight and can be efficiently manufactured. Vents are optimally located to allow the release of vapor and heat. A lid is hinged to the top such that it can be easily raised or lowered by the user for the purpose of parking a vehicle. Moreover, strategic placement of structural molded ridges and structural flanges in the various components of the invention adds to the overall stability and rigidity of the apparatus.

Abstract: A retractable roof system (30) for a large building structure (32) for selectively closing off an opening (39) of a fixed roof (34) of the building structure (32), the system includes at least one roof section (40) movably mountable on at least one pier (42). A deployment mechanism (46) is provided and includes a weight assembly in the form of a piston (76) of cylindrical form and comprising a generally cylindrical body (76) provided with top and bottom ring-type cylinder bumpers (78) and seal rings (84) let into ring grooves formed in the surface of the piston.

Abstract: A retractable roof system (30) for a large building structure (32) for selectively closing off an opening (39) of a fixed roof (34) of the building structure (32), the system includes at least one roof section (40) movably mountable on at least one pier (42) of substantially C-section when viewed in profile. The or each pier (42) comprises a ground-engaging foot (43) with an upstanding substantially columnar portion (48) leading to a substantially horizontal top section (50) provided with a movable bracket (44) reciprocable in guide channels (54) formed in the top section (50) and actuable by a deployment mechanism (46).

Abstract: A retractable roof system (30) for a large building structure (32) for selectively closing off an opening (39) of a fixed roof (34) of the building structure (32), the system includes at least one roof section (40) movably mountable on at least one pier (42). A deployment mechanism (46) is provided and includes ropes (66) and pulleys (68) appropriately mounted on the top section (50) of the pier (42). The ropes (66) extend from an actuating piston (60) to the movable part (44) of the top section (50).

Abstract: A foldable portable container is described. The container end walls are hinged to the floor of the container and are attached to the roof by a hinged slide mechanism whereby vertical displacement of the roof causes the simultaneous folding or unfolding of the opposing container end walls.

Abstract: A method of forming a building material with a pre-applied adhesive may include providing a first and second membrane positioned in the same planar orientation and having a gap between them. The first membrane may include an adjacent edge, and the second membrane may include an adjacent edge. The adjacent edges may face each other. A first adhesive tape may be applied to a top planar surface of the first membrane and a second adhesive tape may be applied to the top planar surface of the second membrane. The first and second adhesive tapes extend into the gap.

Abstract: A foldable portable container provided with an integral mechanical mechanism for folding or unfolding the container is described. The integral mechanical drive mechanism is utilized to simultaneously angularly displace the opposing container end walls and the container roof attached thereto to fold or unfold the portable container.

Abstract: A modular assembly structured to assume either a shipping container configuration or a building unit configuration including a frame comprising a plurality of support members and defining both a part of the building unit configuration and shipping unit configuration. A plurality of frame panels are movably connected to the frame and disposable in either a closed position or an opened position so as to respectively and at least partially define either the shipping unit configuration or the building unit configuration. The plurality of unit panels are movably connected to the frame and disposable outwardly therefrom to collectively define end wall portions and ceiling portions of the building unit configuration wherein the unit panels may be stored within the interior of the frame. An erection assembly is selectively disposable in an assembled position exteriorly of the frame and supported thereon so as to facilitate the assembly of at least some of the frame panels and/or unit panels.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a fold-up scaffold system that includes multiple spaced vertical beams supported at one end on a floor of a building and scaffold sections extending across the vertical beams. The system also includes means at opposite ends of the scaffold sections for pivotally supporting the scaffold sections to the vertical beams and at least two air cylinders for each scaffold section connected between the scaffold sections and the vertical beams. In addition, each of the at least two air cylinders is adapted to be actuated between a lowered and a raised position, the scaffold sections being pivoted away from the vertical beams when the at least two air cylinders are actuated to the lowered position to provide a substantially horizontal surface and is positioned substantially vertically against the beam when the at least two air cylinders are actuated to the raised position.

Abstract: The proposed invention relates to a portable housing/shelter unit assembled in a manufacturing building, loaded on a trailer truck and delivered to a site. Once on the site it is lifted off the trailer and lowered onto a leveled ground location or a foundation. Then the unit is un-folded from its central frame (container) and secured to the foundation and final extrusions and screws are applied; thus, the unit is setting in final set up position, structurally and weather tight. If required, additional exterior fenestration can be added to the basic shell, and the exterior customized per client needs and directives.

Abstract: A prefabricated building structure having a collapsible roof and adapted to be transported by a road carrier vehicle is described. The prefabricated building structure is provided with at least opposed parallel load bearing side walls. A roof section having a plurality of spaced roof rafters is pivotally connected by one or more pivot connections to a respective one of a top plate of each of the load bearing side walls. The roof sections are interconnectable to one another when the roof sections are disposed angularly upwards to form a raised pitch roof structure. A leverage beam is connectable to one of the rafters of each roof section and is securable to a cable which is secured to a pulley whereby to permit the roof sections to be raised or lowered.

Abstract: A collapsible enclosure comprising a plurality of support arms, supporting a canopy and movable on a track, from a stored position in which the support arms lie side by side in a substantially horizontal configuration, to an in-use position in which the support arms are erected in spaced apart arrangement in a substantially vertical configuration to define an enclosure, and means to hold the support arms in the spaced apart condition. Preferably the support arms are stored in an underground structure at the location where the enclosure is to be erected.

Abstract: A structure used as a covering and, having different functions, includes several section bars (700, 701, 101?) preferably made of aluminum or generally of light metal, which form uprights (701) and horizontal support beams (101?; 700). The structure includes aseismatic elements (306; 307; 319) at the interconnection or branching points between the horizontal section bars (beams) and the vertical section bars (uprights), and at the base of the uprights. At these points there are also provided elements (2, 303, 304, 308) to promote the downflow of rainwater. The structure is equipped with at least one telescopic roof that may be transparent or not. Additional functions provided by the structure are the anti-wind function, the water drainage from the roof, the self-cleaning function used for automatically cleaning the, roof with water jets and scraping gaskets, etc.

Abstract: An adjustable patio cover and storm protection device capable of remote operation which acts as a security screen that prevents access through a doorway or window to which it is coupled, reduces the amount of light able to pass through the doorway or window, and also acts as a storm barricade when in its closed or down/vertical position, and which acts as an awning or sun shade that provides shade for the area in front of the door or window to which it is coupled when it is in its open or up/horizontal position.

Abstract: An auditorium (10), part of which is covered by a roof structure (20), the auditorium has a partitioning structure (22) which acts to partition off a section of the auditorium whereby a majority part of the partitioned section is covered by the roof structure.

Abstract: Systems and methods to facilitate the cleaning of arenas, such as stadiums having different seating levels. Pivotable bins can collect and funnel trash from different levels such as the concourse level. A series of tubes or chutes can be fixed to the arena structural undercarriage. Approximately 24? diameter tubes can be used to funnel trash from the bins located on perimeter arena walkways to receptacle containers, recycling containers at ground levels, and even refuse removal trucks. The chutes and tubes can be located adjacent to walkway aisles on different levels of the arena. The chutes/tubes can be vertically oriented and/or be inclined as long as refuse can move down the chutes by gravity. Grates can be also used beneath the bins. And locks can further provide safety.

Abstract: A platform has a truss frame including at least one frame chord, legs attached to the frame chord, and at least one assembly mounted between the legs and the frame chord, the assembly including an actuator arranged to move the frame chord. A solar tracking platform has a truss frame including at least one frame chord, block assemblies attached to the frame chord, at least one solar panel attached to the block assemblies, legs attached to the frame chord, and at least one assembly attached to the frame chord, the assembly including an actuator to move the frame chord.

Abstract: A movable cover structure for a fixed ground area, such as a swimming pool cavity (4), has a platform (15) which is displaceable horizontally from a position where it covers the fixed ground area to a position where it is retracted clear of such area. Square section channels (10) are inset along the inner surfaces of opposed long vertical side walls of the cavity (4) and house guide tracks (11). Guide wheels (19) are provided along opposed long sides of the platform (15) and engage with the guide tracks (11). Movement of the platform (15) is effected by a motor (12a) driving toothed wheels (13) which engage with toothed racks (20) provided on the platform (15). In the retracted position the platform (15) is stowed beneath an adjacent horizontal flat floor surface (6) within an inner space (9) below the surface (6). Sensors are provided to detect the presence of persons in the swimming pool.

Abstract: The invention is an apparatus that can be temporarily or permanently secured to the ground or other flat surface to provide a clam-shell like housing for storage of a personal transportation vehicle such as a motorcycle, bicycle, or a four-wheeler. It protects the vehicle from rain and other damaging weather and from persons who might wish to steal the vehicle or otherwise damage or vandalize it. It also prevents passers-by from taking stored or other items left with the vehicle. The user can, in most cases, ride the vehicle into the unit and then securely lock the lid down to the lower half of the unit.

Abstract: A building is equipped with gull-wing doors that open the whole or substantially the whole side of the building, thereby providing easy access to the interior which may be used as a roll-through garage or when mounted on a truck or trailer, the invention makes a roll-on-roll-off covered transporter. Similarly as a horse trailer and the like. Fire fighter's rest station, equipment shed, decontamination wash room, vending kiosk, etc.

Abstract: The invention is for an improved security shelter for small personal transportation vehicles. The invention features lockable, weatherproof storage for such vehicles as motorcycles, bicycles, four wheelers, and Segways®. It is lightweight and can be efficiently manufactured. Vents are optimally located to allow the release of vapor and heat. A lid is hinged to the top such that it can be easily raised or lowered by the user for the purpose of parking a vehicle. Moreover, strategic placement of structural molded ridges and structural flanges in the various components of the invention adds to the overall stability and rigidity of the apparatus.

Abstract: A transportable building system including at least partially erecting a building, transporting the at least partially erected building (6) on its side to a building location, locating the at least partially erected building on a support at the building location, and orientating the at least partially erected building so that it is correctly orientated relative to its support. Further disclosed is a transportable building, including a first structural component (51; 58), a second structural component (40; 56) and a hinge (68) coupling the first and second structural components whereby the second structural component is pivotable between a folded position and an unfolded erected position of the building. The hinge is reconfigurable to allow the second structural component to be relatively displaced away from the first structural component in the unfolded erected position of the second structural component.

Abstract: A playground roofing system, for use in protecting sections of a playground system, is provided having a support structure and a molded frame structure. The frame structure is molded to appear as the soffits, fascia and gutters of a real roof, and includes an interior perimeter that has means to connect the frame structure to a molded roof section. The molded roof section is designed to provide a theme to the roof and is interchangeable such that different themes can be quickly effected by releasing and removing the first roof section and replacing it with a second, differently themed, roof section. The roofing system is designed to permit the attachment and removal of the roof section from within the interior perimeter of the frame so that an installer need not have to climb above the roof section to install the roof section.

Abstract: A movable roof member includes a transport mechanism that is constructed and arranged to permit the roof member to move in a predetermined path with respect to the underlying structure of the supporting edifice. The transport mechanism includes structure for supporting both ends of the roof member, which bridges an otherwise open area of the edifice. In order to permit some flexure and movement of the roof member with respect to the underlying edifice, as will inevitably occur as a result of natural forces such as winds, a lateral release system is provided for maintaining the transport mechanism in a predetermined orientation while simultaneously permitting a limited amount of movement of the roof member in a direction that is nonparallel to the predetermined path of movement. The lateral release system has been found to be most effective when it is provided at but one end of the roof member.

Abstract: An attic storage system comprising a series of elongated rails, each including an array of rollers mounted in and along the length of each rail at spaced apart locations. Individual storage containers, provided with bottom support means adapted to ride along the length of the rails are carried by the rails. The rails of the present invention are adapted to be mounted atop the upper surface of two or more of the ceiling joists of the attic. Thus, the rails may be mounted parallel to, angular to, or perpendicular to, the length dimension of the ceiling joints, thereby providing for enhanced variability in the positioning of the operative elements of the system within an attic, hence enhanced accessibility to any given one or more of the storage containers.

Abstract: A prefabricated building structure having a collapsible roof and adapted to be transported by a road carrier vehicle is described. The prefabricated building structure is provided with at least opposed parallel load bearing side walls. A roof section having a plurality of spaced roof rafters is pivotally connected by one or more pivot connections to a respective one of a top plate of each of the load bearing side walls. The roof sections are interconnectable to one another when the roof sections are disposed angularly upwards to form a raised pitch roof structure. A leverage beam is connectable to one of the rafters of each roof section and is securable to a cable which is secured to a pulley whereby to permit the roof sections to be raised or lowered.

Abstract: An assembly comprising at least two movable panels, each having an elongated profile and at least two pivot connections is provided. The assembly also includes at least two links, each link comprised of at least two pivot connections, each of which is offset from one another both in the plane orthogonal to the axis of the pivots as well as offset from one another along the vector defined by the axis of the pivots itself. The assembly further includes a single fixed member to which the two or more links are pivotally attached. The movable panels are each pivotally attached to at least two of the two or more links. The assembly may take an extended configuration wherein the panels form a continuous surface having a polygonal profile in plan and a stepped profile in elevation. The assembly may take on a retracted configuration such that the panels are essentially stacked over one another to form a compact bundle having an elongated profile.

Abstract: There is set forth a retractable roof system of a specified arrangement including a first elongated track and a second elongated track, and a beam extending between the first elongated track and the second elongated track. The beam is described as supporting a cover. There is also set forth apparatus for moving the beam in relation to the first elongated track and the second elongated track.

Abstract: Modular system for platform and shelving structures. In an assembled configuration, a module has a central vertical member hingedly-coupled to a second vertical member extending perpendicular to a first side of the central member, and a horizontal member hingedly-coupled to the central member and extending perpendicular to a second side of the central vertical member. The upper edges of the central vertical member and the second vertical member of a first module provide support to a horizontal member of a second module, whereby various structures can be formed from a plurality of modules. Each module is stowable by rotating the second vertical member and the horizontal member about their hinged edges toward the central vertical member. One or more of the members can include key portions adapted to interlock with a member of an adjacent module when in an assembled configuration.

Abstract: Modular system for constructing platform and shelving structures. Each module is configurable in either a stowable or assembled configuration. In the assembled configuration, a module has a central vertical member hingedly-coupled to a second vertical member extending perpendicular to a first side of the central member, and a horizontal member hingedly-coupled to the central member and extending perpendicular to a second side of the central vertical member. The upper edges of the central vertical member and the second vertical member of a first module provide support to a horizontal member of a second module, whereby various structures can be formed from a plurality of modules. Each module is easily stowable by rotating the second vertical member and the horizontal member about their hinged edges toward the central vertical member until they are substantially parallel and adjacent thereto, whereby a plurality of modules in the stowable configuration can be stored in substantially the minimum possible space.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system of injection molded panels having integrated connectors which combine to form a low profile enclosure having a telescoping roof. The panels are formed of injection molded plastic to interlock with one another without the need for separate I-beam connectors. The ends of the wall panels have cavities to accept both roof and floor outwardly projecting locking posts for interlocking cooperative engagement which serve to rigidly connect the components together. The construction of the wall, roof, floor and door components minimizes component shapes and simplifies enclosure construction.

Abstract: A bang-bang servo system controls motors which provide drive for trucks on each end of a fabric support beam structure. A plurality of such truck/beam/fabric units comprise a retractable roof Separation of inner and outer truck guiding tracks/support platforms may be wide and somewhat variable. The radius of curvature of the inner and outer tracks may vary widely over the beam excursion path between open and closed roof conditions. Individual beam motion sequencing and stop position are commanded through a central control unit. These features allow great flexibility and adaptability in application of this invention.

Abstract: A recreation range system (10) including a field (11) and a rotatable range carousel (13).