Abstract: The present invention relates to a solar power generation display assembly and methods for providing same involving solar arrays in a display of designated indicia, each solar array containing one or more electronically linked solar modules or cells of a crystalline or amorphous type and other modules. The solar modules and/or portions of the solar modules and other module portions and/or portions of the other module portions within each specific array or display may be static or manipulated electronically or mechanically to provide an enhanced indicia while a programmable display management system enables operation of electrical and mechanical management sub-systems for displaying the indicia.

Abstract: A device comprising a generally rounded configuration having an inner surface and interior, and an outer surface. There is a wall thickness between the inner surface and outer surface. The entertainment device has a base having a generally tubular configuration with walls and a floor. The base couples to the entertainment Sphere, and forms the base thereof. The device has a plurality of screen subassemblies coupled to the wall thickness of the entertainment device sphere.

Abstract: A temperature compensating outdoor wall padding apparatus in one embodiment incorporates a stretch fabric into the edges of a vinyl cover to provide a tension on the vinyl cover minimizing the possibility of wrinkling of the vinyl cover due to a change in temperature. In another embodiment, the temperature compensating outdoor wall padding apparatus may employ a resilient cover, stretchable in 4 directions and pre-tensioned to provide tension on the resilient cover minimizing the possibility of wrinkling of the resilient cover due to a change in temperature. Methods for forming the same are also disclosed.

Abstract: A multipurpose adjustable panel system having support beams continuously adjustable between zero pitch and a pitch exceeding zero, wherein support beam pitch is influenced by vertical adjustment of support post assemblies and by horizontal spacing of support post assemblies. Multiple mounting fixtures are incorporated to accommodate beam pitch adjustment including pivotable beam support fixtures adjustably and positionably secured along the bottoms of the beams and pivotable panel support node fixtures adjustably and positionably secured along the tops of the beams, the pivotable beam support fixtures and the pivotable panel support node fixtures enabling ready adjustment of the pitch of the beams.

Abstract: Methods of and equipment for converting existing standard motion picture theatres to one having highly immersive, large fields of view are addressed. Aspects of the methods including moving motion picture screens closer to the audience and employing different projection equipment to avoid or minimize appearance of unrealistic or non-natural image artifacts. Alternative sound systems too are detailed.

Abstract: A telescopic seating system generally includes an innermost lower riser assembly and successive outer elevated riser assemblies. Each elevated riser assembly includes a dual deck surface and a telescopic leg assembly. Each elevated riser assembly supports a toothed belt drive system which provides the interface between each adjacent elevated riser assembly and the motive force to extend and retract the riser system. In operation, electric motors of the toothed belt drive system on each elevated riser assembly are driven by a controller to extend and retract the telescopic seating system between a fully extended position, a half-deployed position and a storage position. The half-deployed position utilizes the dual deck surface to provide half the seating capacity of each riser at twice the rise between each seating row to thereby accommodate particular venues.

Abstract: A portable platform-support system provides an external platform comer for supporting a platform surface structure; the system having a rigid comer-support apparatus having a non-integrating outer-facing portion with opposing outer edges, an inner portion, and a recessed pocket; a channel member having an elongated shape, a slot aligning with the recessed pocket, and an upper surface to provide support to the platform surface structure; and a reinforcement member securely coupled to and extending from the inner portion with the reinforcement member to securely support the channel member.

Abstract: A portable light-emitting stage component including a deck supported by a support portion comprising at least one light-producing element, a first side, a second side substantially parallel the first side, a first end connected to the first side and the second side, and a second end substantially parallel the first end, the second end connected to the first side and the second side. The at least one light-producing element directs light through the deck. The first side includes a first rotatable latch member comprising a first hook. The first side and the axis of rotation of the first rotatable latch member are substantially coplanar or parallel. The second side includes a first receiving member comprising a first post. The support portion includes a protrusion protruding from a side or end selected from the group consisting of the first side, the second side, the first end, and the second end.

Abstract: A unified multiple-use stadium has multiple fields or other areas for putting on various types of sporting events or other performances sequentially or simultaneously. A racetrack surrounds the fields or other areas. A unifying structure in the center of the stadium allows for simultaneous viewing of different areas and sporting events. Walkways extend from the unifying structure and between bleachers for the different fields or other areas. A drag strip and return area extend in one direction from the unifying structure. Exterior bleachers surround the racetrack. The types of fields and areas can vary, but can include a grass field, a dirt field, a sand and water area, and a concrete pad. There may be additional areas for extending these areas. The interior bleachers are transforming bleachers that can be lowered into the ground or raised to tapered or fully extended positions to accommodate different types of sporting events.

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 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: A portable light emitting stage component and portable stage system. The stage components having a deck supported by a support portion. The support portion includes at least one light producing element arranged and disposed to direct light through the deck. The support portion further includes at least one connector having at least one of a latch member and a receiving member. The latch member has features that clampingly secure stage components together when engaged with features of a receiving member to form a substantially planar surface made up of a plurality of decks.

Abstract: A portable platform-support provides an external platform corner for supporting a platform surface structure. The external platform corner employs a rigid corner-support apparatus that is connectable to other components. The rigid corner-support apparatus includes a non-integrating outer-facing portion with opposing outer edges and an inner portion. A channel member has an elongated shape and an upper surface adapted to provide support to the platform surface structure, and a reinforcement member is securely coupled to and extending from the inner portion with the reinforcement member being adapted to securely support the channel member.

Abstract: A theater (54) can be divided into a plurality of booths (64) by booth partition walls (68). By moving the booth partition walls (68), the plurality of booths (64) are combined to form a combined theater (66). When the theater (54) is divided in the plurality of booths (64), each booth (64) provides a booth picture in which images of visitors seated in the booth (64) are incorporated as characters. The combined theater (66) provides a combined-theater picture with the use of screens (70) of all the booths (64). Each booth (64) provides a default picture when a fault occurs in the function of generating a booth picture.

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 event structure uses at least one storage container as a principal support component. The event structure can include a plurality of storage containers that support a functional component. In one possible embodiment, the functional component is a ramp surface. The functional component can alternatively be a seating system, a stage surface, or a climbing wall system to name a few.

Abstract: There is a need for being able to excellently audiovisually receive contents without disordering a room atmosphere. An audiovisual room 1 is provided with one wall including an inner wall 2 and an outer wall 3. Part or all of the innerwall 2 forms a rear-projection screen 6C or a diaphragm (speaker unit) 6A. Equipment such as a projector 10 and an amplifier is placed in a space between the inner wall 2 and the outer wall 3. The space is large enough for a person to enter. Accordingly, a serviceperson etc. can enter the space to easily do works such as maintaining the equipment. The equipment such as the projector is not placed in the audiovisual room 1, making it possible to audiovisually receive contents without disordering a room atmosphere.

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).

Abstract: A portable acoustic reflective panel assembly used as a background for outdoor performances has an upright frame surrounding a sound reflecting sheet member. A plurality of elastic cords secure the sheet member to the frame. Braces connected to the frame and anchored to the ground maintain the frame and sheet member in upright positions on the ground.

Abstract: The complex, intended for application in big cities or city centers, where space for garages, storehouses and similar facilities is to be ensured, comprises a yard (1), situated between roadways (2) and railed off by a fence (3) with entrance door (4). In the yard (1) a school building (5) is situated and a sports-, play- and common activities zone (6) is shaped. In this zone (6), there is an at least two-storeyed underground construction (7), to which an approach (10) is shaped. In the approach area (10) there is a single-storeyed over-ground part (11). The construction (7) includes walls (12), bearing intermediate pillars (13) and floor panels (14) founding on the longitudinal footings of supporting beams (15). The pillars (13) have short consoles (16), where the beams (15) are mounted and they are restrained in monolithic footings (20), with their bottom ribbed ends (21) placed in preliminary prepared cups (22) encompassing this ribbed ends (21).

Abstract: A wall structure has a first wall and a second wall that faces the first wall. A part of the second wall or the entire second wall is configured as a rear-projection screen. A projector for projecting an image onto the rear-projection screen is arranged between the first and second walls.

Abstract: A shade assembly including reflective shade panels suspended above a roof or along an exterior wall of a building. The assembly also includes a shade box, such as one including an assembly of upright support posts and attached cables to which dark or reflective water-absorbent shade panels are attached. The shade box covers a rooftop fixture. The shade box can also include a water distribution system which dispenses water substantially onto the dark shade panels when they are included in the shade box. The shade assembly may also be used in a method for cooling the exterior surface of a building. The shade assembly may be used in a method of obtaining government economic incentives for energy efficiency such as emission reduction credits. A shade assembly including reflective shade panels suspended above a structure on or near the ground, such as a parking lot.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a drive-in movie theater and/or events center preferably located on top of one or more parking garages located at a shopping mall or other similar complex. The drive-in theater preferably has a short range radio broadcast system that can send radio signals to cars on the parking garage, wherein movie-goers can listen to the movie sound tracks on their own car stereos/radios. When needed, the present system contemplates having more than one transmitter, each operating at the same or different frequency, so that the effective service range of each transmitter can be made within limited guidelines set by the FCC. The drive-in theater can be combined with an events center and connected to a shopping mall where access to restaurants and retail establishments can be provided.

Abstract: An apparatus for enabling sequential viewing of performances by a plurality of performers includes first and second surfaces, at least one of the surfaces being movable relative to the other surface; a plurality of performance stations defined on one of the first and second surfaces; a plurality of viewing stations defined on the other of the first and second surfaces; and a motive device that produces relative motion between the first and second surfaces.

Abstract: An ice skating arena having at least a first ice rink having a first side wall of a first wall length and a second ice rink having a second side wall of a second wall length; the first side wall being parallel to the second side wall at an inter-rink distance therefrom; the first side wall comprising a first protective spectator viewing window; the second side wall comprising a second protective spectator viewing window, a ceiling extending the inter-rink distance from the first wall and the second wall along at least a portion of the first and second walls; a floor extending the inter-rink distance from the first wall and the second wall along at least a portion of the first and second walls; wherein the first side wall, the second side wall, the ceiling and the floor define therebetween a chamber comprising a climate controlled spectator viewing space. The area provides enhanced spectator comfort in a maximum unencumbered viewing manner and reduced capital cost expenditures.

Abstract: A modular step system for in-ground swimming comprising a bottom central hub, a brace assembly, a top central hub, a tread support assembly, a step form and a liner. The components of the modular step system interlock and snap together without fasteners. Also, the components of the modular step system are obtained by molding plastic material or curing of a curable material. The modular step system is installed on a level concrete floor of a swimming pool and designed to be rigidly fixed from behind to adjacent pool walls. The modular step system is adaptable to a pool having a vinyl liner, structurally sound regardless of size, easy to assemble, consistent in size, and cost-effective.

Abstract: The invention provides systems and methods for generating a visual image that is made to appear to be situated behind an architectural structure, such as a wall of a building, and is viewed through windows thereof. The image appears as an oversize object relative to the actual object. The system and method include an image recorder and/or a pre-recorded image, an image display apparatus, and a mask. Sound can be provided as required to complete the illusion. The image can be a still image or a moving image. In some embodiments, two viewers can see the image from opposite sides of the structure, each perceiving the image as being on the side opposite to the viewer. The system includes a video capture device and a display and an optional audio system for showing the person whose image is being projected the giant image as seen and heard by a viewer.

Abstract: The invention provides systems and methods for generating a visual image that is made to appear to be situated behind an architectural structure, such as a wall of a building, and is viewed through windows thereof. The image appears as an oversize object relative to the actual object. The system and method include an image recorder and/or a pre-recorded image, an image display apparatus, and a mask. Upon being projected, the image of interest is masked so that illumination falls on one or more regions of a display surface, and no illumination reaches the architectural structure outside the display region(s). Sound can be provided as required to complete the illusion. The image can be a still image or a moving image. In some embodiments, two viewers can see the image from opposite sides of the structure, each perceiving the image as being on the side opposite to the viewer.

Abstract: A bridge for use over a racetrack surface is provided. The racetrack surface has a cross-track width. The bridge includes a bridge structure supported over the cross-track width of the racetrack at a height sufficient to provide clearance for use of the racetrack. The bridge structure has a first end and a second end and a bridge length to span at least a portion of the cross-track width of the racetrack. The bridge structure has at least one walkway to provide access to at least one seating area. Viewing seats are located in the seating area, positioned on the bridge structure to provide for viewing of at least a portion of the racetrack.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a multi-purpose arena that can be used for sport and non-sport type of events. The size of the arena can be varied to suit the particular type of entertainment present in the arena. The acoustics can also be varied or tuned to maximize the performance in the arena. The seating in the arena is disposed to provide excellent viewing of the entertainment being performed in the arena. And, the arena can accommodate the staging requirements for almost any use that is developed for the arena.

Abstract: An account is given of a system for and a method of making the growth/thriving conditions for grass more favorable in connection with grass pitches, e.g. football pitches. A lighting unit having a rectangular peripheral shape and thin, disc-like form is dimensioned to correspond to the pitch that is to be lit artificially, and may comprise extra devices for additional functions that may improve the growth/thriving of the grass, such as watering/ventilation. The lighting unit (16) is arranged to be moveable in the vertical direction by means of a hoisting arrangement comprising masts (10) (or stand roofs), wires (20) and powered hoisting apparatuses.

Abstract: An installation for increasing the daylight yield in a stadium provided with a playing surface, stands, and optionally a covering, includes an essentially vertical light-reflecting body to guide the light incident on the body towards the playing surface in the stadium. Preferably the reflecting body is arranged along the free peripheral edge of the covering of the stadium. In one embodiment the reflecting body includes a multi-layer construction of two corrugated sheets with a light-reflecting foil between them. The installation can increase the light yield in a covered stadium by between 30% and 50%.

Abstract: The invention concerns a structural and mechanical means to build a large retractable roof, that can have the shape of a barrel vaulted roof or a pitched vaulted roof or a flat roof. The roof is moved as one monolithic roof on and off a mall walkway or other structure. The roof cover is a glass skylight or other material.

Abstract: The present invention advantageously provides an enhanced event-based theater going experience. In particular, one embodiment of the present invention enables pre-recorded videos of live performances, such as concerts, to be reproduced with great realism and encourages theater attendees to act or feel more as participants and less as passive viewers. The theater optionally comprises a projection screen, a projection room, seating, a dance area, an MC (master of ceremonies) station, changeable scenic designs, special effects equipment, food services and/or a bar.

Abstract: A mega stadium-convention center complex is disclosed comprising an impressive pyramid building with a 670-foot pinnacle and a base covering more than 20 acres. The complex contains a 60,000-seat football stadium with a central playing field located more than 180 feet above the ground. The four-sided pyramid can be clad in tinted reflective glass or the like and has 8 or more floors below the playing field that provide several million square feet of floor space for a variety of different business and entertainment facilities. The pyramid roof structure above the stadium and the playing field is adjustable and convertible and includes more than a dozen narrow retractable roof panels or strips and associated guide rails.

Abstract: A modular stage prop system having a first stage prop and a second stage prop. The first stage prop has a first stepping surface and a plurality of first side surfaces extending from the first stepping surface. The first stepping surface and the plurality of first side surfaces define a first partial enclosure in which an object may be stored. At least one of the first stepping surface and the plurality of first side surfaces has a male connector portion. The second stage prop has a second stepping surface and a plurality of second side surfaces extending from the second stepping surface. The second stepping surface and the plurality of second side surfaces define a second partial enclosure in which an object may be stored. At least one of the second stepping surface and the plurality of second side surfaces has a female connector portion.

Abstract: The invention concerns a swimming pool cover consisting, over a portion (P′) at least of its length, of juxtaposed roofing elements (I′) whereof the distance which delimits the external chord of each of the longitudinal edges (220a′) and (220b′) resting on the support edge (S) of the pool and connected by two roof bows (210′) is shorter than the distance which delimits the internal chord of the two longitudinal edges (220a) and (220b) resting on the support edge (S) of the pool and connected by two roof bows (210) of the juxtaposed elements (I) of the other portion (P) of the roof to enable the first portion (P′) of small elements (I′) to be nested in the second portion (P) of large elements (I) thereby exposing partly the pool over a length corresponding to the displacement of the mobile portion (P′) of elements (I′).

Abstract: A convertible stadium includes an exhibition area, a seating area and a plurality of roof support locations for supporting a movable or retractable roof assembly. The roof assembly includes a first major truss that spans a distance between a first and a second of the roof support locations and a second major truss that spans a distance between a third and a fourth of the roof support locations. Both of the first and second major trusses are preferably structurally configured as a tied arch, each of which has a generally convex upper portion and a lower portion that is adapted to assume gravity induced stresses within the trusses as tension. In order to keep the center of mass of the major trusses generally positioned within a plane including the roof support locations, which optimizes lateral stability of the major trusses, the major trusses are most preferably given a lenticular shape, meaning that the lower portion of the trusses is convex and in fact preferably generally symmetrical to the upper portion.

Abstract: A self-contained mobile stage system for outdoor performances that is transportable with a light tow vehicle, and with features for easy deployment by one person alone. The mobile stage trailer includes a chassis having a pair of decks, including an upper deck and a lower deck vertically spaced apart from the upper deck. A retractable hitch assembly is coupled with the chassis for coupling the trailer with the tow vehicle. A wing deck is coupled with the chassis at each lateral edge. The wing decks are selectively positionable in a first favored position proximate the upper deck of the chassis portion so that the upper deck and the wing decks together present an upwardly directed surface for performances. The wing decks are further selectively positionable in a second favored position for towing wherein the system presents a system width dimension generally equal to the width of the chassis alone.

Abstract: A system for operating a retractable roof having at least two moveable roof sections, the system comprising: a first support having a first pulley; a second support positioned opposite to and across from the first support means and having a second pulley; a tie member which passes around the first and second pulleys to form an elongate loop having a crossover point between the supports; wherein the first roof section is supported, in use, by the tie member between the first support and the crossover point and the second roof section is supported, in use, by the tie member between the crossover point and the second support such that, in use, the roof sections move in opposite directions when the tie member is moved.

Abstract: A press box generally made from a plurality of modules assembled together wherein each module includes a plurality of tubes or beams and columns arranged to form a box-like frame structure. The modules can be connected to one another in a vertical or horizontal arrangement. Roof modules may be secured to the uppermost module and all modules are secured together. Nuts and bolts, welding, or other means can be used to secure connector plates on the box-like frames to corresponding connector plates or to secured adjacent tubes of different press box modules. The box-like modules can include a doorway, electrical wiring, windows, tables, counters, lights, flooring, ceilings, and be accessible by staircase. Balconies may be secured to one side of the modules as desired. The modules may be individually assembled in a first location, transported to a second location and secured to one another to form a press box.

Abstract: A convertible stadium includes an exhibition area, a seating area and an outer sidewall in which is defined in large opening, preferably located so as to provide favorable outdoor views to the occupants of the stadium. A movable wall member is advantageously position so as to be able to open or close the large opening. When the movable wall member is in a first, retracted position spectators will be provided with a view of the outdoors and a great deal of outdoor air and sunlight. When outdoor conditions are unfavorable for an intended event within the stadium, however, the movable wall member may be repositioned in order to partially or fully close the opening. Such unfavorable conditions may include undesirable sun position, an undesirable amount of wind or humidity; or unfavorable temperatures.

Abstract: The present invention is a netting system (10) for use with bleachers and grandstands (11) to prevent children, persons, and debris from falling to the ground. A first end (12a) of a net (12) is operatively connected to a cable (18) proximate an attachment point (11a) proximate the top of the bleachers (11). Then, a second end (12b) of the net (12) is passed over the understructure (11c) of the bleachers (11) and then operatively connected to a cable (25) proximate an attachment point (11b) proximate the bottom of the bleachers (11).

Abstract: A convertible public exhibition facility includes a stadium having an exhibition area and a seating area that is situated about the exhibition area for permitting spectators to view activities taking place in the exhibition area. The exhibition facility further includes a movable natural grass activity platform that has a surface area of natural grass that is at least 10,000 square feet and that is constructed so as to have a characteristic frequency of at least 6 Hz. Situated within the natural grass activity platform is a transport mechanism that is constructed and arranged so as to be able to move the natural grass activity platform as a complete unit from a location that is outside of the stadium to a location that is within the exhibition area. Preferably, the location that is outside of the stadium is an outdoor location that provides optimal conditions for the growth of natural grass.

Abstract: Disclosed is a building structure (1) formed with a living space available for our daily life therein, comprising a partition wall (25) partitioning the living space into a plurality of living sections (24); a wall assembly (20) including inner wall members made of transparent material, closing an outer circumference of the living space and meeting each living section (24), and outer wall members forming predetermined scene-production spaces (23), spacedly positioned relative to the inner wall members, corresponding to each living section (24); a supplying means for supplying a predetermined scene-producing object to inside of each scene-production space; and a controller (81) for activating and deactivating the supplying means so as to allow each of inner scene-production spaces to be produced independently.

Abstract: A two-tired seating riser for a sports stadium comprises upper and lower metal plates bonded together by a solid elastomer core. The elastomer core has different thicknesses in the treads and rises. The lower tread has a lip portion in which the metal plates are flared to facilitate alignment with the riser below.

Abstract: A climate controlled practice facility comprises an enclosable building having an access door to permit into the building's interior, a pressurization unit for pressurizing the interior to a selected pressure differential, and a plurality of items located within the interior correlated to a selected sporting activity and arranged to simulate an appearance of at least a portion of a playing environment. In one embodiment, the climate controlled practice facility is a baseball practice facility for acclimating players to selected playing conditions. Here, a practice region is located within the enclosure interior and includes a pitching station and a batting station spaced apart therefrom. Players may enter the enclosure and practice for an interval of time while being exposed to a set of metrological conditions, such as pressure, temperature and humidity, that are regulated by a climate controlled system. A method of practicing a selected sporting activity is also provided.

Abstract: A modular command post system comprised of removable interconnecting truss elements is provided. The modular command post system is configured to provide shelter and infrastructure to support various electronic equipment used by occupants of the command post.

Abstract: An automobile theater system including a display screen adapted for use with a single automobile. A movable canopy provides a viewing chamber extending between the screen and the automobile. The theater system may be fixed in a stationary position or supported on a mobile platform.