TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates generally to the field of buildings and construction; and more specifically, to the field of tents and associated temporary structures.
BACKGROUND
From the time when people lived in caves and traveled to seasonal hunting grounds, there has been a need for temporary structures that could be transported and erected to provide shelter. In more recent times, a number of tents and other temporary structures have been developed to meet the continuing needs for portable shelters, sales kiosks, wind breaks, sun shields, etc. However, many of the tents currently known in the art sacrifice strength and sturdiness for light-weight materials and portability. This often results in structures that are not sufficiently strong to withstand wind, storms, etc. Although some tents are strengthened and designed to be tough, they often are complex, heavy, and difficult to erect and take down, sometimes requiring special equipment and/or many people working together. What is needed is an improved temporary structure that remains portable, easy to erect and take-down, is not overly-complex, and yet provides a strong structure capable of withstanding wind, storms, etc.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An improved temporary structure utilizes an enhanced, heavy-duty frame that is specially engineered to be easily transported, assembled, used and then disassembled and transported again, all while simultaneously providing superior strength and support to the shell covering and flexibility in configuration to meet the varying needs of a myriad of different users. The exterior shell covering can be constructed of tough, all-weather materials that can handle rain, wind, sleet, snow, sun, sand, and other harsh conditions while staying attached to the frame and properly supported thereby; the two working in concert to provide a much improved temporary structure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective side view of an exemplary embodiment of an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 2 illustrates a top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an enhanced frame for an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 3A illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of an enhanced frame for an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 3B illustrates a side elevation view of an exemplary embodiment of an enhanced frame for an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 4 illustrates a top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a corner base including a shell cover for an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 5 illustrates a top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a corner base of an improved temporary structure without a shell cover;
FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a corner roof member including a shell cover for an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a corner roof member without a shell cover for an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective side view of an exemplary embodiment of a corner strut including a shell cover for an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective side view of an exemplary embodiment of a cot expansion including a shell cover for an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 10 illustrates a side elevation view of an exemplary embodiment of an expansion T member for an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 11 illustrates a side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a shelf expansion for an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 12A illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a peak keystone for an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 12B illustrates a side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a peak keystone for an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 12C illustrates a side elevation view of an exemplary embodiment of a peak keystone for an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 12D illustrates another elevation view of an exemplary embodiment of a peak keystone for an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 13 illustrates a side elevation view of an exemplary embodiment of a side panel and view port for an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 14 illustrates a side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a second shell cover top lock flap for an improved temporary structure;
FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a first shell cover bottom lock flap for an improved temporary structure; and
FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a shell cover corner join for an improved temporary structure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
In the following discussion, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that embodiments may be practiced without such specific details. Furthermore, lists and/or examples are often provided and should be interpreted as exemplary only and in no way limiting embodiments to only those examples. Similarly, in this disclosure, language such as “could, should, may, might, must, have to, can, would, need to, is, is not”, etc. and all such similar language shall be considered interchangeable whenever possible such that the scope of the invention is not unduly limited. For example, a comment such as: “item X is used” can be interpreted to read “item X can be used”.
Exemplary embodiments are described below and in the accompanying Figures. The following detailed description provides a review of the drawing Figures in order to provide a thorough understanding of, and an enabling description for, these embodiments. One having ordinary skill in the art will understand that in some cases well-known structures and functions have not been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of the embodiments.
Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective side view of an exemplary embodiment of an improved temporary structure 5. As the shell cover 10, 20, and 40 is in place, the enhanced frame supporting the shell cover is not visible. See later FIGs. for more detail on the enhanced frame. In the illustration in FIG. 1, two sides of the improved temporary structure 5 are visible. As the standard shape is generally rectangular (although other shapes are contemplated), the roof 40 is designed to be similarly rectangular where it joins and overlaps the sidewall panels 10 and 20 through the curved roof transition assembly covers 47 where it transitions into a four faced pyramid moving upwards therefrom and terminating in a roof panel peak 45.
The shell cover 10, 20 and 40 should be made from durable, weather-resistant, fire-resistant heavy-duty material(s) such as the heavy-duty polyester and satin blend is shown in the FIGs. This material easily rolls or folds as desired for easy packing, storing and transport and yet is extremely durable and tough to provide strong, nearly rigid side panels 10 and 20 and roof 40.
The side panels 10 and 20 are illustrated in two standard configurations in FIG. 1 and have other contemplated configurations in additional embodiments. As shown in the embodiment in FIG. 1, the first side panel 10 comprises a door configuration having a left door panel 13 and a right door panel 15 that are joined by the door join 19 itself. The door join 19 can utilize any type of adequate closure including a zipper, hook and loop materials, snaps, ties, magnets, etc. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, a heavy-duty zipper is used with a storm flap covering the zipper and ensuring the door join remains weather-resistant.
Abutting the first side panel 10 is the second side panel 20. In the embodiment in FIG. 1, the second side panel 20 comprises a window configuration having a single arch window 30. The illustrated arch window 30 utilizes a transparent/translucent vinyl material to allow light to pass through while retaining weather-resistant properties as well. In other embodiments, other types of materials/windows are contemplated. For example, see the mesh screen material illustrated in FIG. 13. The windows 30 can be removable by using any type of install/un-install connectors such as zippers, hook and loop materials, etc. In another embodiment, the second side panel 20 includes a plurality of windows, which can be one, two, three, or more. In yet another embodiment, the second side panel 20 includes no windows whatsoever.
In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the improved temporary structure 5 incorporates an enhanced frame that is approximately ten feet wide by ten feet long. In other embodiments, other sizes are contemplated; furthermore, an improved temporary structure need not have a square footprint, but can be rectangular, etc. In one embodiment, an enhanced frame is constructed utilizing durable sixteen gauge, one and a quarter inch galvanized steel tubing. Other materials are contemplated in other embodiments.
Although only two side panels 10 and 20 are visible in FIG. 1, the opposing sides can be configured as mirrors of their opposites. In such a configuration, the improved temporary structure will have two door side panel 10 and two window side panels 20. The side panels 10 and 20 can be individually removed, leaving an improved temporary structure with zero, one, two, three, or four sides. Any of the side panels 10 and 20 can be replaced with a screen panel that is also removable.
The roof 40 in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 is designed to be rectangular where it joins and overlaps the sidewall panels 10 and 20 through the plurality of curved roof transition assembly covers 47. These curved overlaps provide a significant advantage over other temporary structures as any rain, sleet, hail, snow, etc. that impacts the roof and rolls down it has a smooth, curved transition to follow that guides the precipitation off of the structure. Other prior art temporary structures have straight roof edges which abruptly merge with vertical walls, causing a potential catch-basin to form there. The weight of the precipitation (especially heavy, wet snow) that catches in there causes prior art structures to pool snow, water, and even ice in these locations. Such pooling can become extremely heavy, deforming the structure, causing damage, and allowing water, etc. to enter the prior art structures. On the other hand, the plurality of curved roof transition assembly covers 47 of the illustrated embodiment in FIG. 1, allow the roof 40 to transition smoothly to the side panels 10 and 20 so that the ability of precipitation to pool at those transitions is limited.
Moving upwards from the curved roof transition assembly covers 47, the roof 40 resembles a four sided pyramid in shape and terminates in a four sided roof panel peak 45. The peak 45 is supported by a peak keystone component of the enhanced frame, see FIGS. 12A-12D.
The improved temporary structure illustrated in FIG. 1 has a large number of potential uses. An exhaustive listing is not practical, but here is a partial list of the most popular uses:
- Spa Tent (an improved temporary structure can cover and protect a spa/hot-tub: allowing it to be used in all weather conditions, allowing the surrounding air to be cooled or heated as desired, allowing a hot-tub/spa to become a steam room, and saving money on heating the spa's water as the improved temporary structure provides an insulating barrier);
- Vendor Tents (an improved temporary structure can provide a protected vending space that is open and airy and yet protected from sun, wind, precipitation, etc.);
- Smokers' Tents (many locations ban smoking indoors, leaving smokers out in the elements, but an improved temporary structure can alleviate this problem, especially as the shell cover can employ fire-resistant materials);
- Carports (as entire side panels can be removed from an improved temporary structure, it can serve as an excellent car port);
- Lawn and Garden Shed (lawn mowers, snow blowers, tillers, tractors, etc. degrade rapidly when stored outside, yet with limited or no garage space, that can be the only option for many people—an improved temporary structure can solve this dilemma);
- Recreation Vehicle Storage (boats, golf-carts, all terrain vehicles, motorcycles, and RVs all can benefit from being stored inside an improved temporary structure instead of sitting out in the sun and weather);
- Camping (an improved temporary structure provides one of the most durable, strong, weather-resistant camping tents you can find, and the enhanced frame provides many interior equipment hanging locations to help keep you organized while camping);
- Golf Room (you can practice year round while being protected from harsh weather); and
- Welding/Work Shelters (allows welders, workers at construction sites, etc. to perform work while protected from the elements, or as a temporary reprieve from the sun, bad weather, etc.).
FIG. 2 illustrates a top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an enhanced frame 100 for an improved temporary structure 5. An enhanced frame 100 comprises a plurality of corner bases 200, a plurality of first bottom rails 110, a plurality of second bottom rails 115, a plurality of first corner struts 120, a plurality of second corner struts 125, a plurality of corner roof members 300, a plurality of first top rails 150, a plurality of second top rails 155, a plurality of curved roof transition assemblies 140, a plurality of roof struts 145, and a peak keystone 400. In other embodiments, an enhanced frame 100 can comprise additional, fewer, and/or different components.
In the embodiment in FIG. 2, the enhanced frame 100 is in a four sided cube arrangement with a bottom and top. In this embodiment, no floor or other covering is illustrated on the bottom of the cube, although it is contemplated that one could be added, attaching to the plurality of corner bases 200, the pluralities of first and second bottom rails, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, a floor covering can be utilized that does not attach or attaches in a different manner than that described. Similarly, no interior ceiling is illustrated on the top of the cube, although it is contemplated that one could be added. Above the top of the cube, the roof frame components extend upwards to support the exterior roof shell cover 40 (see FIG. 1).
A plurality of corner bases 200 are illustrated with one in each lower corner of the enhanced frame 100. Each corner base 200 utilizes a base plate, a plurality of rail locks, a plurality of securing ports, and a corner strut mount (for details of these components, see FIGS. 4 and 5). A corner base 200 is adapted to have a first bottom rail 110 and a second bottom rail 115 attached thereto. In the embodiment in FIG. 2, each corner base 200 provides for the rails to attach so that they are oriented at approximately ninety degrees to one another and extend outwards approximately horizontally from the corner base 200. Extending upwards from the corner base 200 is a corner strut mount (again, see FIGS. 4 and 5 for more detail) which is adapted to hold securely therein a first corner strut 120. Thus, each corner base 200 has three rails/struts extending outwards therefrom, with the two horizontal rails extending in an X axis and a Y axis direction, and the strut extending upwards in a Z axis direction. In other embodiments, a corner base 200 could also be adapted to accept additional/other/fewer rails/struts extending in other directions therefrom.
As illustrated in FIG. 2, the plurality of first bottom rails 110 each attach at a proximal end to a corner base 200 and at a distal end to a second bottom rail 115. Similarly, each second bottom rail 125 attaches at a distal end to a first bottom rail 110 and at a proximal end to a corner base 200. In one embodiment, the distal end of each first bottom rail 110 is a male end with a decreased diameter than fits inside the distal end of each second bottom rail 115 with comprises a female end. In another embodiment, the distal ends of the first bottom rails 110 are female and those of the second bottom rails 115 are male. In yet another embodiment, both first and second bottom rails 110 and 115 have male distal ends (or both have female distal ends) and a coupler is used to secure them to each other.
Mounted approximately vertically in each corner base 200 is a first corner strut 120. As a significant portion of the various stresses and weight loads of the structure is placed on each first corner strut 120, the connection between each first corner strut 120 and each corner base 200 needs to be very strong and secure. For details of this connection, see FIGS. 4 and 5. A proximal end of each first corner strut 120 is adapted to mount to a corner base 200 while a distal end of each first corner strut 120 is adapted to mount to a second corner strut 125. As with the first and second bottom rails 110 and 115 described above, the connection between each first corner strut 120 and each second corner strut 125 can be a combination of male and female ends without a coupler or both female/male ends with a coupler.
The distal ends of the second corner struts 125 can be connected to the first corner struts 120 while the proximal ends of the second corner struts 125 can be attached to a plurality of corner roof members 300. The corner roof members 300 each comprise four connection members that are durably joined together to form a single corner roof member 300. Each of the four connection members is adapted to connect to a proximal end of another frame component. Pointing generally downwards, the corner strut connection member connects with the proximal end of the second corner strut 125.
The roof transition connection member points generally upwards and is adapted to connect to the proximal end of a curved roof transition assembly 140. The first top rail connection member points generally horizontally and is adapted to connect to the proximal end of a first top rail 150, while the second top rail connection member also points generally horizontally at approximately ninety degrees to the first top rail connection member and is adapted to connect to the proximal end of a second top rail 155. For more details of the four connection members, see FIGS. 6 and 7.
Connections between the first and second top rails can mirror those options discussed above for connecting the first and second top rails to each other. For more detail of the connections between the proximal ends of the top rails 150 and 155 and the corner roof members 300, see FIGS. 6 and 7. Once the top rails 150 and 155, bottom rails 110 and 115, corner struts 120 and 125, corner bases 200 and corner roof members 300 have all been attached to one another as described above, the cube structure of FIG. 2 is formed. In other embodiments, the analogous structure may not be cube shaped but could have other shapes, such as a brick, cylinder, etc.
A plurality of curved roof transition assemblies 140 each have a proximal end which is adapted to connect to one of the plurality of corner roof members 300. The proximal end of each curved roof transition assembly 140 points generally downwards and is adapted to connect with the generally upwards pointing roof transition connection member on a given corner roof member 300. Once connected, the distal end of each curved roof transition assembly 140 extends upwards and inwards towards a generally central axis of the improved temporary structure.
Each of a plurality of roof struts 145 is attached to each curved roof transition assembly's distal end and extends the roof frame components so that they more closely approach the generally central axis. Located on this generally central axis is a peak keystone 400. The peak keystone 400 has four keystone ports which each connect to the proximal ends of the plurality of roof struts 145 to finish off the enhanced frame 100. Note that in other embodiments, additional curved roof transition assemblies 140 and additional roof struts 145 may be utilized. Similarly, the total number of each component may vary from those shown in FIG. 2 in yet other embodiments.
FIG. 3A illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of an enhanced frame 100 for an improved temporary structure. This view shows exemplary embodiments of a plurality of curved roof transition assemblies 140, a plurality of roof struts 145, a peak keystone 400, a plurality of first top rails 150, and a plurality of second top rails 155. Also shown in the bottom left corner of FIG. 3A is a close-up of a corner base 200. Note that later FIGs. show more detail of a corner base, see, for example, FIGS. 4 and 5.
FIG. 3B illustrates a side elevation view of an exemplary embodiment of an enhanced frame 100 for an improved temporary structure. In this view, a first and second bottom rail 110 and 115, a first and second top rail 150 and 155, a corner base 200, a corner roof member 300, a curved roof transition assembly 140, a roof strut 145, and a peak keystone 400 are illustrated. Note that FIG. 3B also provides a close-up of the peak keystone 400, although additional details can be seen in FIGS. 12A-12D.
FIG. 3B also includes a statement that in this embodiment “all tubes [can be] connected by push-pins for positive locating”. Although not easily visible in FIG. 3B, push-pins can be used. Alternatively, pop-up locks can be installed near the ends of all rails, struts, and assemblies, said pop-up locks comprising spring loaded, rounded pins which are attached inside of the members and are pushed upwards through a lock port in the member by a spring-type action. The pop-up locks can pass upwards through the lock port in their own member and then extend through a mating lock port in the connected component. This pop-up lock helps to hold the components in place while additional locking means are actuated. For example, bolts or screws can be threaded through each member and its connected component to solidly lock them together. The pop-up locks can be unlocked by simply pressing downwards on the top of the pop-up lock and then decoupling the member and the connected component—the rounded top of the pop-up lock is further pressed downwards and unlocked from the connected component by pressure from the sidewall of the lock port itself as it slides over the top of the pop-up lock.
FIG. 4 illustrates a top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a corner base 200 including a shell cover for an improved temporary structure. Each corner base 200 utilizes a base plate 210 that rests upon an installation surface 290. Additional components of each corner base include: a plurality of rail locks 220 and 230, a plurality of securing ports (not shown in FIG. 4, see FIGS. 3A and 5), and a corner strut mount 240. The base plate 210 can be a support plate, extending generally horizontally. Although the base plate 210 in FIG. 4 is generally square in nature, other shapes and sizes are contemplated. For example, when the improved temporary structure is installed on a firm, flat surface such as concrete or asphalt, a smallish base plate 210 may be sufficient. However, when installed on a sandy, swampy, or other non-stable surface, larger base plates 210 may be needed. Additionally, the shape of the base plate 210 may be modified to more securely contact a specific type of ground surface, flooring, etc.; for example, if an improved temporary structure were to be mounted on a corrugated steel surface, a matching corrugation could be incorporated into the base plate 210.
The base plate 210 forms the base upon which each corner base 200 rests. Extending upwards from the base plate 210 are a plurality of rail locks 220 and 230. In FIG. 4, the rail locks comprise threaded rod which extends upwards from the base plate 210 and provides mounting locations in order to attach the first and second bottom rails 110 and 115 to the corner base 200. Each mounting rail has an attachment port 111 and 116 that comprises a hole through both sides of the rail that is simply aligned with the rail locks 220 and 230 and then the rails are pressed downwards over the rail locks 220 and 230. Nuts or other locking hardware can be screwed down over the rail locks 220 and 230 until they contact the rails and thereby hold them in place. If the surface upon which the improved temporary structure is erected is uneven, the bottom rails 110 and 115 can be raised or lowered by simply loosening or tightening the locking hardware. Once locked in place, the bottom rails are firmly and securely attached to the corner base 200 and each other.
Also attached to the bottom rails are a first shell cover base lock flap 14 and a second shell cover base lock flap 16. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, these lock flaps 14 and 16 each comprise two sections of material attached near the bottom edge of the side panels 10 and 20 that can be wrapped around the bottom rails and secured to each other via hook and loop material (or by some other means in other embodiments). These help to secure the side panels 10 and 20 to the enhanced frame 100. Prior art tents often utilize sewn sleeves through which support poles must be carefully threaded during the process of erecting the tent. This can be difficult to accomplish and such configurations can reduce the strength and stability of the tent pole frame and fabric combination. Instead, as the embodiment in FIG. 4 illustrates, the enhanced frame can be erected first and then the shell cover can be installed and secured afterwards without having to thread components through sleeves or otherwise attempt to erect frame and cover components simultaneously. Furthermore, because the shell cover components can be installed after the frame is fully erected, that allows the shell cover components to also be uninstalled without having to change or modify the erected frame. This allows shell cover components to be removed as desired for usability of the improved temporary structure; for example, perhaps one side of a sidewall panel 20 must be removed to move a picnic table into the structure, the illustrated embodiment can accommodate this need quickly and easily without having to take down any part of the enhanced frame.
Extending generally upwards from the base plate 210 is a corner strut mount 240. The corner strut mount is adapted to hold securely therein a first corner strut (not visible in FIG. 4, see FIG. 2, item 120). As discussed above, there are a number of different means by which a first corner strut can be attached and secured to the corner strut mount 240. In one embodiment, the corner strut mount 240 has a slightly larger diameter than a proximal end of a first corner strut such that the strut fits snugly inside the corner strut mount 240. In another embodiment, the strut could fit over the corner strut mount 240. In any case, a strut lock (not visible in FIG. 4, see FIG. 5, item 244) can be used to lock the two components together once they are in place. Also, as discussed above, a pop-up lock or similar auto-locating lock can be used in place of, or in addition to, the strut lock described here.
A first base lock wrap 24 is also illustrated in FIG. 4. It functions to attach one or more of the sidewall panels 10 and 20 to the corner base 200. In the embodiment in FIG. 4, this is accomplished via two strap components that wrap around the corner strut mount 240 and then are secured to each other via hook and loop materials. Other types of securing materials or means are contemplated in other embodiments.
FIG. 5 illustrates a top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a corner base 200 of an improved temporary structure without a shell cover. In this embodiment, additional components of the corner base 200 are more visible, including a plurality of securing ports 222 and 232, a strut lock 244 with threaded lock nut 242, and a plurality of rail locks locking hardware 221 and 231. As mentioned above, the rail locks locking hardware 221 and 231 locks the bottom rails 110 and 115 in place once they are installed on the rail locks 220 and 230.
The plurality of securing ports 222 and 232 can be used to attach/secure the corner base 200 to the installation surface 290. For example, when the surface 290 on which the improved temporary structure is to be installed is dirt, tent stakes, spikes, etc. can be inserted through the securing ports 222 and 232 and driven into the dirt. If the surface is not conducive to pounding stakes therein, then the securing ports 222 and 232 can be used as tie downs to secure the corner base 200 to the installation surface 290 or other nearby tie points. It is contemplated in other embodiments that the number of securing ports 222 and 232 could be zero, one, two, three, or more.
FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a corner roof member 300 including a shell cover for an improved temporary structure. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, four corner roof members 300 are shown. Other embodiments may have more or fewer corner roof members 300.
The corner roof members 300 each comprise four connection members 301, 302, 303 and 304 that are durably joined together to form a single corner roof member 300. Each of the four connection members is adapted to connect to a proximal end of another frame component. For example, pointing generally downwards, the corner strut connection member 303 connects with the proximal end of the second corner strut 125.
The roof transition connection member 301 points generally upwards and is adapted to connect to the proximal end of a curved roof transition assembly 140. The first top rail connection member 304 points generally horizontally and is adapted to connect to the proximal end of a first top rail 150, while the second top rail connection member 302 also points generally horizontally at approximately ninety degrees to the first top rail connection member 304 and is adapted to connect to the proximal end of a second top rail 155. For more details of the four connection members, see FIG. 7.
Once a given rail, strut or assembly is in place, a strut lock 310, 311, 312, and 313 can be used to lock the component to the corner roof member 300. Additional location locks can be utilized as well, see the plurality of pop-up locks 371 and 373 illustrated in FIG. 6. The pop-up locks can be installed near the ends of all rails, struts, and assemblies; said pop-up locks comprising spring loaded, rounded pins which are attached inside of the members and are pushed outwards through a lock port in the member by a spring-type action. The pop-up locks can pass outwards through the lock port in their own member and then extend through a mating lock port in the connected component, here, the connection members 301, 302, 303 and 304. This pop-up lock helps to hold the components in place while additional locking means are actuated. Further, the protruding head of the pop-up locks can assist in keeping the top rail lock wraps 340 and 341 in place.
Top rail lock wraps 340 and 341 can be similar to the first base lock wrap 24 introduced above. They function to attach one or more of the sidewall panels 10 and 20 and/or the roof 40 to a corner roof member 300. In the embodiment in FIG. 6, this is accomplished via two strap components that wrap around the corner roof member 300 and then are secured to each other via hook and loop materials. Other types of securing materials or means are contemplated in other embodiments.
A plurality of second corner strut lock wraps 23 are shown in FIG. 6, they are similar to the top rail lock wraps 340 and 341 described above. The second corner strut lock wraps 23 help to attach one of more of the sidewall panels 10 and 20 to a second corner strut 125. In the embodiment in FIG. 6, this is accomplished via two strap components that wrap around the second corner strut 125 and then are secured to each other via hook and loop materials. Other types of securing materials or means are contemplated in other embodiments.
Also attached to the top rails 150 and 155 are a first shell cover top lock flap 41 and a second shell cover top lock flap 42. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, these top lock flaps 41 and 42 each comprise two sections of material attached near the top edge of the side panels 10 and 20 that can be wrapped around the top rails 150 and 155 and secured to each other via hook and loop material (or by some other means in other embodiments). These help to secure the side panels 10 and 20 to the enhanced frame 100. Furthermore, the heavy-duty flap system 14, 16, 41, and 42 wraps around the top and bottom frame components, adding strength, durability, and limiting the amount of dirt and wind that enter the unit.
FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a corner roof member 300 without a shell cover for an improved temporary structure. The corner roof members 300 each comprise four connection members 301, 302, 303 and 304 that are durably joined together to form a single corner roof member 300. Each of the four connection members is adapted to connect to a proximal end of another frame component. For example, pointing generally to the right in FIG. 7, the corner strut connection member 303 connects with the proximal end of the second corner strut 125 (not shown in FIG. 7, see FIG. 6).
The roof transition connection member 301 points generally left in FIG. 7 and is adapted to connect to the proximal end of a curved roof transition assembly 140 (see FIG. 6). The first top rail connection member 302 points generally upwards in FIG. 7 and is adapted to connect to the proximal end of a first top rail 150 (see FIG. 6), while the second top rail connection member 304 points generally downwards in FIG. 7 because of the perspective view. It is noteworthy that the first top rail connection member 302 is oriented to point approximately ninety degrees from the second top rail connection member 304, which is adapted to connect to the proximal end of a second top rail 155. For more details of the four connection members, see FIG. 6.
Once a given rail, strut or assembly is in place, a strut lock 310, 311, 312, and 313 can be used to lock the component to the corner roof member 300. Additional location locks can be utilized as well, see the plurality of pop-up lock ports 372 and 374 illustrated in FIG. 7. The pop-up locks can be installed near the ends of all rails, struts, and assemblies; said pop-up locks comprising spring loaded, rounded pins which are attached inside of the members and are pushed outwards through a lock port in the member by a spring-type action. The pop-up locks can pass outwards through the lock port in their own member and then extend through a mating pop-up lock port 372 and 374 in the connected component, here, the connection members 301, 302, 303 and 304. Although not illustrated in FIG. 7, connection members 302 and 304 can also utilize this feature. The pop-up locks can help to hold the components in place while additional locking means are actuated (such as strut locks 310, 311, 312, and 313).
FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective side view of an exemplary embodiment of a corner strut 21 including a shell cover 10 and 20 for an improved temporary structure. The corner strut 21 comprises a first corner strut 120 and a second corner strut 125 which connect together via corner strut junction 170. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the junction 170 is shown utilizing a male/female end connection system as described in FIG. 2's connection between the first and second bottom rails (see above). Similarly, in other embodiments, a coupler can be used.
A plurality of second corner strut lock wraps 23, a plurality of first base lock wraps 24, and a plurality of first corner strut lock wraps 25 are illustrated in FIG. 8. They are similar to the top rail lock wraps 340 and 341 described above. The lock wraps 23, 24 and 25 help to attach one of more of the sidewall panels 10 and 20 to the corner strut 21 and/or the corner base 200. In the embodiment in FIG. 8, this is accomplished by each lock wrap utilizing two strap components that wrap around the corner strut 21 and/or the corner base 200 and then are secured to each other via hook and loop materials. Other types of securing materials or means are contemplated in other embodiments.
FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective side view of an exemplary embodiment of a cot expansion 500 including a shell cover for an improved temporary structure. The cot expansion 500 utilizes a number of frame components that are inserted between the first corner strut 120 and the second corner strut 125. A plurality of expansion T members (unlabeled, but at the same height as expansion T members 520 and 521) are placed between the corner struts 120 and 125 and the remaining portions of the cot expansion 500 can be attached thereto. If the plurality of first corner struts are not each the proper length for optimum cot height, the first corner struts can be replaced by longer or shorter components when the T members are installed. Further, if the regular junction between first and second corner struts utilizes a male/female arrangement, then an adapter sleeve can be inserted over the male end so that both ends fit snugly inside the T members.
Two additional T members 501 and 502 can be installed in the bottom rails with shorter replacement sections of bottom rail so that the overall dimensions of the enhanced frame aren't changed. As illustrated in FIG. 9, these two additional T members 501 and 502 have cot legs 510 and 511 supporting the cot expansion components that do not reside directly against the left and right door panels 13 and 15.
Extending horizontally from and attaching between T members 520 and 521 is a cot rail 540 (a second cot rail 541 extends between the other two unlabeled T members that are installed in the corner struts). The cot rails 540 and 541 function to support and secure the cot surface 560 and hold the weight of whoever or whatever is placed on the cot. An additional center support post 550 can be used to further support said weight.
Also illustrated in FIG. 9 is a shelf expansion 600. This component can utilize one or two additional T members and can be inserted in the corner struts or above/below/within the cot legs. Extending out horizontally from the additional T members can be a shelf that can hold a lamp, miscellaneous equipment, etc. See FIG. 11 for more detail.
FIG. 10 illustrates a side elevation view of an exemplary embodiment of an expansion T member 520 for an improved temporary structure. Note that in this embodiment, the expansion T member 520 is configured with female ends so that corner struts, bottom rails, top rails, etc. all fit within the ends of the expansion T member 520. In other embodiments, the T member 520 can have male ends that fit inside the struts, rails, etc., or a combination of male and female can be used. In yet another embodiment, couplers are used and the ends are either male or female. The T top 581 has two strut locks 582 and 584 to lock in the struts, rails, or other components that are attached thereto. Similarly, the T base 583 has a single strut lock 585 to lock in the strut, rail, or other component attached thereto.
FIG. 11 illustrates a side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a shelf expansion 600 for an improved temporary structure. In this embodiment, the shelf expansion 600 utilizes only a single expansion T member 520 placed within the corner strut 21. The shelf plate 620 extends horizontally out from the T member 520 and provides a shelf upon which equipment 630 can be placed.
FIG. 12A illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a peak keystone 400 for an improved temporary structure. See earlier FIGs. for more descriptions of the peak keystone 400, the components to which it is connected, and its placement within the enhanced frame. Note here that the four keystone ports are all arranged approximately 90 degrees from one another.
FIG. 12B illustrates a side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a peak keystone 400 for an improved temporary structure. See earlier FIGs. for more descriptions of the peak keystone 400, the components to which it is connected, and its placement within the enhanced frame. Note here that the four keystone ports are not in a single plane, but are instead angled downwards to receive the plurality of roof struts 145 therein.
FIG. 12C illustrates a side elevation view of an exemplary embodiment of a peak keystone 400 for an improved temporary structure. See earlier FIGs. for more descriptions of the peak keystone 400, the components to which it is connected, and its placement within the enhanced frame. Note here that the four keystone ports can be angled such that a one hundred and forty degree angle spans between them. In other embodiments, other spanning angles are contemplated to accommodate other roof pitches as needed.
FIG. 12D illustrates another elevation view of an exemplary embodiment of a peak keystone 400 for an improved temporary structure. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12D a number of exemplary measurements are indicated. In other embodiments, other angles and lengths can be used.
FIG. 13 illustrates a side elevation view of an exemplary embodiment of a side panel 20 and view port 30 for an improved temporary structure. In this embodiment, the view port 30 utilizes a fine mesh material to allow air to blow through the window but to keep insects, etc. out.
FIG. 14 illustrates a side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a second shell cover top lock flap 42 for an improved temporary structure. The second shell cover top lock flap 42 wraps around the second top rail 155.
FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a first shell cover bottom lock flap 14 for an improved temporary structure. The first shell cover bottom lock flap 14 wraps around the first bottom rail 110.
FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a shell cover corner join 80 for an improved temporary structure. In this illustration, the right door panel 15 that is a component of the first side panel 10 in a door configuration is shown abutting and connected to the second side panel 20 at a corner location. The two are connected at a shell cover corner join 80 with a connection strip utilizing hook and loop materials. In other embodiments, other types of connections between the first and second side panels 10 and 20 are contemplated.
The above specification, examples and data provide a description of the structure and use of exemplary implementations of the described systems, articles of manufacture and methods. It is important to note that many implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Patent Application
20160340927
