Abstract: A roof for a built structure is proposed, which is designed in the form of a hollow body structure. It possesses interconnected walls (18 and 19) of flexible and at least substantially air-impermeable material. These walls (18 and 19) constitute elongated chambers (22), which are arranged side by side in sequence and are alternatingly designed as vacuum chambers (24) and gage pressure chambers (23). It is in this manner that an extremely strong, free span roof is created.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the design of a modern theater for providing live entertainment performances. The theater comprises an auditorium which is defined in part by a modular central core which encloses a defined space. The theater further comprises a modular stage and a two-tier balcony module. The central core module, the stage and the balcony module are each supported by independent foundations and load bearing columns. The balcony module includes an upper level with open seating and a lower level with enclosed suites. The suites are designed so as not to adversely affect the acoustics of the theater. The theater also has two side wing modules for increasing the seating capacity of the theater and other modular structures abutting the central core module. The theater also includes partitions for closing part of the side wing modules and a novel jack system for supporting the acoustic panels forming the partitions when the panels are in their extended position.

Abstract: Adjacent backdrop panels and a suspended canopy comprising a stage shell, wherein the backdrop panels include angular alignment devices for readily and accurately aligning adjacent panels to present a pleasing, uniform appearance and tilt aligning devices to readily align the angle of tilt of the backdrop panels. The suspended canopy formed of individual canopy panels having rotatable hinge devices for storing the canopy panels in a substantially vertical position and having a readily engageable stay assembly for accurately fixing the relative angle of the canopy panels when deployed in a performance position above the backdrop panels.

Abstract: A structural system that can be used to cover an underlying area exactly or approximately defined by a circle, an ellipse, a superellipse, a triangle, a rectangle, a regular polygon, an irregular polygon, or any closed boundary line. When viewed in plan, the roof structure substantially matches the boundary of the underlying area. The roof structure is made of sets of evenly or unevenly spaced arched parallel trusses which, at their lower ends, are supported by a compression ring that substantially matches the perimeters of the underlying area, and at their high end intersect one of a set of arched collector trusses. When viewed in plan, each parallel truss is parallel to one of a set of generator lines, defined as those lines running from a central point in the projected area of the roof structure to the vertices of a regular or irregular circumscribing polygon that approximates the projected roof area.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the design of a modern theater for providing live entertainment performances. The theater comprises an auditorium which is defined in part by a modular central core which encloses a defined space. The theater further comprises a modular stage and a two-tier balcony module. The central core module, the stage and the balcony module are each supported by independent foundations and load bearing columns. The balcony module includes an upper level with open seating and a lower level with enclosed suites. The suites are designed so as not to adversely affect the acoustics of the theater. The theater also has two side wing modules for increasing the seating capacity of the theater and other modular structures abutting the central core module. The theater also includes partitions for closing part of the side wing modules and a novel jack system for supporting the acoustic panels forming the partitions when the panels are in their extended position.

Abstract: A cable-stay retractable skylight roof and method of constructing the same wherein a large clear span is built over an existing or new athletic stadium or arena or other structure. The principal feature of the roof structure is that it is supported by Cable-Stays to towers standing outside of the stadium and places no vertical weight on the existing stadium. The structure includes a beam framework and roof covering installed over the framework. The covering is fabricated of a clear skylight material to allow sufficient light transmission to permit a natural grass playing field and retracts open to create an open air stadium.

Abstract: A theatre designed to provide an intimate environment for an audience, particularly for watching 3-D motion pictures. The theatre has an auditorium with a sloped seating deck and audience entry/exit points on opposite sides, generally at an intermediate level of the deck. The entry/exit points are generally at ground level with the portion of the deck below those points in an excavated pit. A ground level lobby connects to the access points by aisles outwardly of opposite sides of the auditorium and a projection room is provided above the lobby.

Abstract: A releasable joint for joining two construction elements of a transportable construction. Also a construction element adapted for use in making the releasable joint, and a construction, such as a portable building or stage assembly, comprising a plurality of construction elements joined by the releasable joint.

Abstract: The choral riser is to be supported on a stage surface. The choral riser has a base that presents two spaced apart base supports, each of the base support having a first and a second spaced apart pivot point. A first step member has a step pivot point and a base pivot point that is operably pivotally coupled at the base pivot point to the base at the base first pivot point and has at least one step presented thereon. A second step member has a step pivot point and a link pivot point that is operably pivotally coupled at the step pivot point to the first step member at the first step member step pivot point and has a plurality of steps presented thereon. A bar link member is operably pivotally coupled at a first end pivot point to the second step member bar link pivot point. The bar link member is operably pivotally coupled at a second end pivot point to the base second pivot point.

Abstract: A retractable dome stadium having a plurality of generally lune-shaped panels mounted for movement between an open position in which they are stacked one above the other in a superimposed relationship and a closed position in which they are disposed in a generally side-by-side relationship. In the open position, the dome has a low and open view in one end thereof.

Abstract: A new moveable grass field for providing natural turf playfields for enclosed sports stadiums. The inventive device includes a suprastructure base secured to and spanning a system of wheels for movement in and out of a sports stadium. A layer of cement is disposed above the suprastructure base. A layer of rocks are disposed above the layer of cement. A layer of gravel is disposed above the layer of rocks. A layer of sand is disposed above the layer of gravel. A layer of soil is disposed above the layer of sand. A layer of sod is disposed above the layer of soil.

Abstract: A multi-piece dome is constructed from a plurality of rigid panels and configured to receive a hemispherical optical projection on a truncated spherical inner surface. The inner view surface has a predetermined retroreflectivity. The multi-piece dome is lightweight, portable, self-supporting, and easily assembled, disassembled and transported from one location to another.

Abstract: A party tent has a frame that includes an inner frame supported above an outer frame by a plurality of truss members. The inner frame is smaller than the outer frame in at least one dimensional aspect so that the span across the inner frame is less than the span across the outer frame. In the preferred embodiment, at least one cross member extends across the inner frame and supports a vertical member that extends away from the surface. During the assembly, the internal frame of the tent is put together so that the covering can be placed over this frame while it is at a height of less than six feet. The vertical members are then erected under the covering, thus lifting and stretching the covering for an aesthetically pleasing appearance. After the internal frame, vertical members, and covering are in place, a series of legs is positioned under the tent, thus supporting the tent in a normal fashion.

Abstract: A fixed domed structure, and a pair of movable units each having an arena for playing a game thereon. The fixed structure includes fixed amphitheater seats around a center void where a movable unit is located when in active position. One of the movable units also includes bleacher seats carried thereby, surrounding a smaller arena. When this latter movable unit is in active position, the bleacher seats form a continuation of the fixed amphitheater seats.

Abstract: A movable two-fold seating assembly includes an upright support structure, a forward seating section pivoted to the support structure, and a rearward seating section pivoted to the structure. Forward and rearward frame structures are pivoted to the free ends of the seating sections for supporting the same on the ground. The frame structures are folded to underlie their respective seating sections, and the seating sections are folded about opposing sides of the upright support structure. The entire seating assembly is transportable in the folded condition by lowering ground engaging wheels to the ground from a base structure of the upright support, and lifting the forward end of the assembly as by a forklift.

Abstract: A cable-stay retractable skylight roof and method of constructing the same wherein a large clear span is built over an existing or new athletic stadium or area or other structure. The principal feature of the roof structure is that it is supported by Cable-Strays to towers standing outside of the stadium and places no vertical weight on the existing stadium. The structure includes a beam framework and roof covering installed over the framework. The covering is fabricated of a clear skylight material to allow sufficient light transmission to permit a natural grass playing field and retracts open to create an open air stadium.

Abstract: An improved collapsible stage panel assembly having a base, a vertical panel rigidly attached to the base, an intermediate panel pivotally connected to the top of the rigid vertical panel, a canopy panel pivotally connected to the intermediate panel and a kicker panel pivotally connected to the bottom of the rigid vertical panel. The stage panel assembly has a mechanical assisting device between the rigid vertical panel and the intermediate panel to provide a counter balancing force against the combined weights of the intermediate and canopy panels. A second mechanical assisting device extends between the intermediate panel and the canopy panel to provide a counter balancing force against the weight of the canopy panel. An automatic locking device provides for the locking of the intermediate panel in its extended position relative to the rigid vertical panel when the intermediate panel is placed in its extended position.

Abstract: A base block for use in a system of onsite construction of a tower, comprising a floor, having predetermined dimensions defining a periphery. A perimeter wall is sealingly attached, extending upwardly a predetermined distance around the periphery of the floor so that an enclosed ballast reservoir is formed. Tower connectors are rigidly affixed to the base blocks at predetermined positions for mating removable engagement with the tower.

Abstract: Adjacent backdrop panels and a suspended canopy comprising a stage shell, wherein the backdrop panels include angular alignment devices for readily and accurately aligning adjacent panels to present a pleasing, uniform appearance and tilt aligning devices to readily align the angle of tilt of the backdrop panels. The suspended canopy formed of individual canopy panels having rotatable hinge devices for storing the canopy panels in a substantially vertical position and having a readily engageable stay assembly for accurately fixing the relative angle of the canopy panels when deployed in a performance position above the backdrop panels.

Abstract: According to the present invention, an image projected on a dome shaped screen or reproduced on an image producing apparatus of a dome shape can be viewed through windows of spectator compartments with highly realistic and panoramic effects.

Abstract: An auditorium has a domed roof formed by a first part spherical portion covering, without intermediate support, most of an amphitheatre accommodating an audience, and a second part spherical portion covering a stage adjacent the amphitheatre, the first portion being supported only at its periphery, and the second portion consisting of segmental leaves which can open about a common pivot supported by the first portion to uncover the stage, the common pivot being at a vertical axis of the second portion of the roof and above the amphitheatre and the vertical axis of the first portion being above the stage. Wall panels behind the stage can be moved apart to open the rear of the stage to the exterior.

Abstract: A permanently fixed theater construction comprises a ground level lobby and a projection screen which are opposite ends of the construction. A seating region on a support floor is angled downwardly from the lobby into a pit towards the projection screen. An entrance to and an exit from the seating region are both provided at floor level through the lobby. There is a projection room with a projector in the lobby and the projection room includes a projection window above floor level of the lobby facing the projection screen. The projector itself is movable from a first set up and maintenance position at the floor level to a second operating position level with the projection window. The projector when moved to the operating position projects large format film to the screen.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an openable roof having two pairs of half dome openable roofs provided on a ring shaped set roof having a flat upper surface. In the center of the set roof, an aperture is provided; this aperture being opened or closed by these two pairs of openable roofs. Furthermore, either respective pair of these two pairs of openable roofs may be selected and utilized to open and close the aperture as necessary.

Abstract: A retractable roof system comprised of several inverted U-shaped, inverted L-shaped, and T-shaped segments. The vertical portion of each segment is a truss supporting the roof loads and spanning across the roof opening that can be moved on steel rails in one direction and nest overlapped with each other to produce an opened roof area or moved in the other direction to produce a closed roof.

Abstract: A portable roof and tower system of the type for building, disassembling, moving and reassembling at an intended site a covered stage from component pieces includes a plurality of movable pairs of base blocks positionable at predetermined regular spaced apart locations at the intended site. A plurality of pedestal pairs are removably fastened to each of the base block pairs at close tolerance adjustable spaced apart locations. A plurality of tower section pairs are removably fastened to and vertically extend upwardly from the plurality of base pedestal pairs. A plurality of pairs of head block sections are removably fastened at tops of the plurality of tower section pairs. A roof assembly comprising a plurality of roof trusses is constructed on-site at platform level between the plurality of opposed pairs of the towers. The roof trusses are aligned between opposed pairs of the towers and are lifted via a plurality of cable winches upwardly.

Abstract: A multi-activity complex incorporates a plurality of activity floors, each of which has an associated playing surface and is selectively movable between a storage position, located below an event staging or activity area, and an in-use position located in the activity area. A system is provided for alternatively shifting the activity floors between the respective storage and in-use positions. The shifting system includes a lift assembly for vertically moving the activity floors into and out of the activity area and a second mechanism for laterally shifting the activity floors to and from a respective storage area disposed below and laterally outwardly of the activity area.

Abstract: A triangulated cable dome roof having a retractable roof portion includes a triangulated cable arrangement for supporting a roof membrane, a roof membrane which is fixed to a portion of the triangulated cable arrangement so that a portion of the underlying area is exposed, and a retractable roof portion movably secured to the triangulated cable arrangement. The retractable roof portion preferably includes one or more retractable roof sections, each of which is movable between a closed position in which the retractable roof sections overlay the uncovered portion of the triangulated cable arrangement and an opened position in which the retractable roof sections nest above the covered portion of the triangulated cable arrangement, thereby exposing a portion of the underlying area.

Abstract: A repositionable roof, for a stadium building, comprising at least two opposed ungular segments in abutting relationship, the segments being mounted each on an arcuate track and movable thereon for separation of the segments to expose the interior of the building thereby selectively providing an open air stadium.

Abstract: A multi-activity complex incorporates a plurality of activity floors, each of which has an associated playing surface and is selectively movable between a storage position, located below an event staging or activity area, and an in-use position located in the activity area. A system is provided for alternatively shifting the activity floors between the respective storage and in-use positions. The shifting system includes a lift assembly for vertically moving the activity floors into and out of the activity area and a second mechanism for laterally shifting the activity floors to and from a respective storage area disposed below and laterally outwardly of the activity area.

Abstract: Disclosed is a mobile stage including a forestage with concealed footlights, a roof connected to the forestage by a telescopic frame assembly, a sky drop mounted on the telescopic frame assembly and disposed between the roof and the forestage, a visual display terminal mounted on the forestage at the front, stage ighting fixtures mounted on the roof and the sky drop, and a distributing box mounted on the forestage at the back for power supply control.

Abstract: A retractable dome stadium or the like utilizing a plurality of generally lune-shaped dome panels mounted for movement between an open position in which they are stacked one above the other in superimposed relationship and a closed position in which they are disposed in a generally side-by-side relationship, and a mechanism for guiding and moving said panels between said open and closed positions. A method of operation is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an openable roof having two pairs of half dome openable roofs provided on a ring shaped set roof having a flat upper surface. In the center of the set roof, an aperture is provided; this aperture being opened or closed by these two pairs of openable roofs. Furthermore, either respective pair of these two pairs of openable roofs may be selected and utilized to open and close the aperture as necessary.

Abstract: A continuous curtain for surrounding a stadium and to extend upwardly from the upper margin of the stadium so as to minimize lateral wind forces and thereby eliminate erratic wind currents on or above the playing field of the stadium. The curtain has a number of side-by-side panels with each panel being porous or having holes therethrough to permit limited flow of air through the panels. The panels are suspended from a location above the stadium and extend downwardly to ground level in generally vertical planes. The upper margins of the panels are spaced well above the upper margin of the stadium, and the curtain is open at the top of the wind barrier. Thus, the interior of the space surrounded by the curtain is not closed to the upper hemisphere. The suspending structure for the curtain is buoyant in air and is held down by cables extending downwardly from the buoyant structure to the ground. The buoyant structure can be helium-filled balloons which are supplied by helium from helium sources at ground level.

Abstract: A support system for supporting lights, T.V. monitors and similar devices includes sectional rail structures comprising identical rails interconnected together in end-to-end relation. Rails are also connected to directional coupling members in angular relation therewith. Quick-connect, overcenter toggle connector devices interconnect the rails together in end-to-end relation and also interconnect rails to coupling members in angular relation.

Abstract: A portable, reconfigurable staging platform is provided and includes a plurality of individual panel assemblies, a plurality of support legs coupled to the panels, and a plurality of connectors for detachably coupling selected individual panels to one another in a desired configuration. Each of the individual panel assemblies includes a central panel region with a peripheral edge overlaid by a panel frame. The support legs are operably coupled to the frame and the frame includes a connector receiving feature for slidably, releasably receiving the connectors so that selected adjacent panels may be joined to each other.

Abstract: Stadia and other activity surfaces are provided comprising natural turf. Natural turf units are provided which are transportable between first and second locations, the second location being for the growth and maintenance of the turf unit; the first location being a location for the performance of the desired activity. Means of transporting the units between the first and second locations are also provided. Artificial plant growth media are also provided comprising sand fractions and at least about 30% of shaped pieces of expandable polymer which are substantially inert to plant growth chemistry. In accordance with preferred embodiments, domed stadia are provided with natural turf activity surfaces which are able to withstand intensive wear during multi-season activities.

Abstract: A retractable roof for a stadium, comprising a central arch separating a pair of end segments, one end segment being fixed, the central arch being movable to a position above the fixed end segment, the other end segment being movable arcuately laterally to a position transverse to its closed position and laterally external to the central arch.

Abstract: A portable performance platform for the performing arts includes a wheel mounted chassis adapted for towing by an automobile or truck. A staging compartment is mounted on the chassis that includes front and rear end walls, opposed sidewalls, an overhead roof, and a compartment floor. Opposed telescoping towers are mounted on the front and rear ends of the chassis to provide right and left upright supports for the overhead roof. The compartment sidewalls are pivotally carried along opposed side margins of the roof, and are outwardly extendible to present an extended canopy in conjunction with the roof when the platform is set up in its performance configuration. A unique actuating assembly raises and lowers the sidewalls in tandem, and tilts the raised canopy to an acoustically desirable orientation. In the performing configuration, the platform aprons of the portable performance platform are pivoted downwardly so as to be flush with the compartment floor.

Abstract: In an openable roof apparatus for a space, a stationary support structure is arranged about the space. A movable roof structure is supported by the stationary support structure and is movable with respect thereto. The movable roof structure having a first movable roof section and a second swing roof section. The second swing roof section is movable angularly about the central axis of the space with respect to the first movable roof section and is capable of being overlapped therewith. A guide arrangement is arranged on the stationary support structure and extends perpendicularly to a central axis of the space. The first movable roof section and the second swing roof section, which are overlapped with each other, are movable along the guide arrangement toward and away from the space.

Abstract: This invention provides for a multi-purpose stadium which includes a first activity area having a natural turf playing field and a second activity area positioned below the first activity area. The first activity area is supported on a platform vertically movable with respect to the second activity area allowing for spectator sightlines to be satisfied for events occurring within the first and second activity areas. The first activity area is supported within the stadium by a plurality of piers. Each pier includes a hollow column with a continuous slot on the interior face thereof which supports a hydraulic lifting device. The hydraulic lifting devices vertically move the first activity area relative to the second activity area. Alternatively, a counterweight system may be employed to lift the first activity area.

Abstract: A covered arena structure capable of being erected or dismantled for transport from site-to-site comprises an interior portal frame structure comprising a series of inwardly inclined side members supporting an interior roof structure around the periphery thereof so as to define a substantially unobstructed arena area; a weatherproof membrane covering the interior portal frame structure and being draped over the inwardly inclined side members; an exterior pyramidal frame structure outside the membrane; and suspension means connected between the pyramidal structure and the membrane so as to suspend a portion of the membrane located above the interior roof structure.

Abstract: A structure is provided having two opposing nested pairs of outwardly convex roof arches mounted for rotation about a generally horizontal axis. Each pair of nested roof arches can be rotated about its axis from a lowered nested condition to a raised condition where the inner portion of one arch partially overlaps the other arch of the nested pair. In a preferred arrangement the arches extend between supports on diametrically opposing sides of a stadium building, which has an upper opening. The arches in their raised condition cover the stadium opening and in their lowered condition maintain the stadium substantially open to the elements. The turning moment exerted by the arches is sustained through struts by floats within liquid contained in caissons forming a foundation of the structure. The floats are shaped and guided to follow a path within the liquid as the associated arch rotates such as to substantially balance the turning moment of the latter as they move.

Abstract: In an openable roof apparatus for a space, a first and a second movable roof structures have their respective both ends which are supported respectively by a pair of stationary support structures for movement therealong. A pair of guide arrangements are arranged respectively on the pair of stationary support structures. The first and second movable roof structures are movable toward and away from each other along the guide arrangements. The first movable roof structure includes a plurality of movavble roof units having their respective axes which extend perpendicularly to the guide arrangements. The first and second movable roof structures are movable between a closed position where the movable roof units of the first movable roof structure cooperate with the second movable roof structure to close the space, and an open position where the movable roof units of the first movable roof structure are moved away from the second movable roof structure to open the space.

Abstract: Portable cage-like protective apparatus for surrounding athletic field equipment such as pad assemblies for high jump and pole vault landing pits, as protection against mischievous damage to such pad assemblies, making it unnecessary to disassemble and move the pad assemblies or other athletic field equipment daily. Vertical wall panels and horizontal top panels of the apparatus have pipe frames covered with fencing wire cloth such as chain link fencing. Removable wheels provide portability when needed, and a movable wall facilitates movement of the protective cage apparatus into and out of a protective position surrounding jump and vault pit pad assemblies. Truss assemblies extending upward above the cage panels provide stiffening and support, while the total weight of the apparatus is kept low. Disassembly of the apparatus for storage in a compact form is facilitated by the use of simple clamps to interconnect panels to one another.

Abstract: The present invention provides a building structure with a two part roof including a first generally horizontal top fixed roof part and a second roof part extending downwardly outwardly from the first roof part and formed by sliding panels for retractability of the second roof part. The first and second roof parts are separated by a first roof support which is under compression with a second roof support which is under tension being provided below the second roof part.

Abstract: An openable roof includes a plurality of rotationally movable roof members and at least one linearly movable roof member. Each of the rotationally movable roof members is of a generally sectorial shape in a two-dimensional projection. The sectorial shape has a radially outer edge portion. The outer edge portions of the rotationally movable roof members are movably disposed on an outer arcuate support. Accordingly, each of the rotationally movable roof members is able to revolve around an axis of the arcuate support so as to participate to open and close a sectorial opening portion provided by the arcuate support. The linearly movable roof member has a generally V-shaped edge portion. The V-shaped edge portion cooperates with the arcuate support to define the sectorial opening. The linearly movable roof member is movably disposed on a plurality of linear supports so as to participate to open and close a larger opening portion which is larger than the sectorial opening.

Abstract: A roof structure and method of constructing the same wherein a large clear span is built over an existing or new athletic stadium or arena. The principal feature of the roof structure is that it is supported by Cable-Stays to towers standing outside of the stadium and places no additional weight on the existing stadium. The invention is particularly concerned with such a method and structure wherein the central section of the structure is not cantilevered from the towers and thus does not impart cantilever loads to the towers. The structure includes a beam framework and roof covering installed over the framework. The covering is fabricated of a clear skylight material to allow sufficient light transmission to permit a natural grass playing field and is openable to allow for ventilation.

Abstract: A structure is provided having two opposing nested pairs of outwardly convex roof arches mounted for rotation about a generally horizontal axis. Each pair of nested roof arches can be rotated about its axis from a lowered nested condition to a raised condition where the inner portion of one arch partially overlaps the other arch of the nested pair. In a preferred arrangemnt the arches extend between supports on diametrically opposing sides of a stadium building, which has an upper opening. The arches in their raised condition cover the stadium opening and in their lowered condition maintain the stadium substantially open to the elements. The turning moment exerted by the arches is sustained through struts by floats within liquid contained in caissons forming a foundation of the structure. The floats are shaped and guided to follow a path within the liquid as the associated arch rotates such as to substantially balance the turning moment of the latter as they move.

Abstract: A video information system includes a screen (1) having at least two cells (2-5, 14-16) rotatable in at least one direction and forming a three-dimensional multi-plane screen system changeable in space. Information from at least one projector is fed to two or more cells (2-5). Video information is presented in an in-depth three-dimensionally unfolding space. The system also has the capability of producing simultaneous changes in time, and the screen system can be efficiently combined with scenery attributes. The video information can be fed to the cells of the screen in the form of front or rear projection.

Abstract: An openable roof includes a plurality of fixed roof members and a plurality of movable roof members. Each fixed roof member is a portion of a sphere, with a subsection removed so as to produce an opening. Each movable roof member is the above-mentioned removed subsection with a further subsection removed. The fixed roof members, constitute the lower portion of the openable roof so that a complete opening results from coincidence of the openings. The movable roof members are mounted on the lower portion of the openable roof in such a manner that each movable roof member moves along a track formed along the rim of the opening of the corresponding fixed roof member.