US20040187903A1 - Pop up collapsible structures - Google Patents
Pop up collapsible structures Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20040187903A1 US20040187903A1 US10/404,933 US40493303A US2004187903A1 US 20040187903 A1 US20040187903 A1 US 20040187903A1 US 40493303 A US40493303 A US 40493303A US 2004187903 A1 US2004187903 A1 US 2004187903A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- frame
- cover
- structure according
- frames
- shape
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
- E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
- E04H15/32—Parts, components, construction details, accessories, interior equipment, specially adapted for tents, e.g. guy-line equipment, skirts, thresholds
- E04H15/34—Supporting means, e.g. frames
- E04H15/36—Supporting means, e.g. frames arch-shaped type
- E04H15/40—Supporting means, e.g. frames arch-shaped type flexible
Definitions
- the present invention is related to collapsible toy structures such as tents and playhouses.
- Collapsible structures that are used for playhouses are well-known in the art. They are typically collapsible into a small volume but can be easily popped up by various means, including the use of extendable frames and inflatable tubes.
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,305,396 described a collapsible structure that is provided with a plurality of foldable frame members each having a folded and an unfolded orientation. A fabric material is provided for covering a portion of each frame member to form a side panel therefrom.
- the structure may be folded and stored by folding the side panels and their corresponding frame members on top of each other about the hinge portions to have the side panels and frame members overlying each other.
- the overlying side panels and frame members are then collapsed by twisting and folding to form a plurality of concentric frame members to substantially reduce the size of the structure.
- the present invention provides a foldable enclosure structure containing a fabric cover defining a desired shape when expanded to an expanded position; a first supporting frame attached to the cover; and a second supporting frame provided within the cover and rotatably coupled to the first frame such that the second frame is movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position.
- the second frame is superposed over the first frame in the collapsed position for ease of storage, but is rotated axially to intersect with the first frame in the expanded position to prop up the cover to the desired shape.
- fixing means are provided for fixedly attaching the second frame to the first frame in the expanded position.
- the shape of the two frames assume the same shape as the cross-sectional shape of the cover along the points to which they attach such that they are effectively prop up the cover in the expanded position.
- first and second frames are both fixedly sewn onto the cover.
- the frames may be sewn either onto the inner or outer sides of the cover.
- the intersections between the first and second frames are left unsewn, such that the two frames can rotate axially relative to each other.
- the first and second frames are each foldable from an open position to a folded position, the folded position achievable by twisting and folding the frames into at least two concentric circles. Since the two frames are superimposed onto each other in the collapsed position, it is most convenient for the user to twist and fold the two frames together simultaneously. This would reduce the total area of the collapsed structure to a minimum.
- the first and second frames are each in the general shape of a loop and containing a first and second central vertical axis respectively.
- the first and second frames are coupled together such that the first and second central vertical axes coincide with each other, and the second frame rotatable therealong.
- the two loops may be coupled theretogether by an elastic band provided at the top intersection between the frames.
- the fixing means is a set of Velcro tapes that allow the two frames to be fixedly attached together after the second frame has been rotated to the expanded position.
- the fixing means is a bottom pad for mounting onto the bottom of the enclosure.
- This bottom pad has a bottom frame shaped to match the shape of the bottom of the desired shape for abutment of the first and second frame in the expanded position.
- At least one reinforcement frame may further be attachable along the girth of the first and second frames in the expanded position to prop up the cover to the desired shape.
- This reinforcement frame is preferably attached to the first and second frames after they are arranged into the expanded position.
- the cover defines a complete enclosure with a top portion, a bottom portion and side portions for sheltering at least one person therein, the cover further provided with at least one opening for the person to access therethrough.
- the first and second frames are each in the general shape of a loop with a first and second central horizontal axis respectively.
- the first and second frames are coupled together such that the first and second central horizontal axes coincide with each other, and the second frame rotatable therealong.
- This embodiment is suitable for shapes such as aeroplanes and airships.
- the fixing means is at least one loop attachable to the first and second frames along the vertical girth for abutment in the expanded position.
- a method of supporting a fabric enclose comprising providing a plurality of rigid or semi-rigid loops having a shape of a second of the enclosure and defining a central axis therein; fixedly attaching one of the loop to a cross-section of the enclosure; and coupling the other loop or loops to the attached loop at a position wherein the loop or loops are rotatable along the central axis relative to the attached loop.
- the loops in pre-determined relative position are abutted into position using a reinforcement frame.
- FIG. 1A is a drawing of an exploded view of the supporting structures according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- the fabric cover is not shown for ease of understanding.
- FIG. 1B shows the assembled supporting structures according to the same embodiment as FIG. 1A. The fabric cover is not shown.
- FIG. 1C shows the perspective view of the fully expanded cover of the enclosure structure according to the same embodiment as FIG. 1A with windows and openings that can be provided on the cover.
- FIG. 1D shows the step of the folding process for a frame into three concentric loops.
- FIG. 2A shows a second embodiment according to the present invention in which a first, second and third frames are rotatable along a horizontal axis in an expanded position.
- FIG. 2B shows an additional reinforcement loop provided within the structure shown in FIG. 2A.
- FIG. 2C and 2D shows a second and third reinforcement loop provided respectively within the structure shown in FIG. 2B.
- FIG. 3 shows a third embodiment of the present invention in which additional structures are provided.
- the term “fabric” is simply used to describe a material that has the collapsible and foldable characteristics of a fabric, and is not meant to limit the instant invention to any particular type of material.
- the cover may be made of, among other things, nylon, cotton, leather, PVC and other natural, synthetic or blended material.
- the term “loop” is defined loosely as any rigid or semi-rigid frame that forms a complete piece without any break in the frame.
- the “loop” may be of any shape, such as circular, triangular, quadrilateral, polylateral, mushroom, or any other regular or irregular shape.
- a “semi-rigid” frame has the characteristic of maintaining a defined shape when it is expanded into the fully open position, but can also be folded, or twisted into concentric circles, or otherwise collapsible by other ways.
- the first embodiment exemplifying the present invention shows two identical frames 22 and 24 that have a mushroom-like shape in the fully open position.
- a fabric enclosure assuming the shape of a mushroom with a dome-shaped top 23 a and a short, thick stem at the bottom 23 b (see FIG. 1C).
- the bottom portion of the stem is also shown to have a girth that spreads wider than the top portion of the stem.
- FIG. 1C shows the fabric enclosure or cover, and the relative position of the same cover is only shown as dotted lines in FIG. 1A.
- the two frames in the open position assumes a shape that is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the cover (i.e.
- first frame 22 is sewn and fixed onto the appropriate position along the cover.
- the first frame is sewn on the inside of the cover.
- the two frames are provided in the upright position, each with a central vertical axis defined therein (in FIG. 1A, the two frames are positioned such that their central axes coincide along line 26 ).
- the second frame is also be fixedly sewn onto the inside of the cover, except that the points of intersection 28 and 30 with the first frame are not sewn to the cover, such that the two frames may rotate axially relative to each other as shown by arrow 40 .
- first and second frames may be sewn either on the outside or the inside of the cover, and are considered “rotatably coupled” with the cover itself acting as the coupling means.
- the frames are arranged such that they are axially aligned along the vertical axis and, when the frames are in the expanded position, intersect at a 90 degree angle.
- three optional reinforcement loops 32 , 34 and 36 of varying sizes, and a square pad 38 with a semi-rigid frame is also provided.
- Pad 38 assumes the same shape as defined by the bottom of the two frames, and once it is inserted into the enclosure as shown in FIG. 1B, the two frames would be secured at a 90 degree angle.
- the three reinforcement loops can then be attached along various heights of the girth of the top portion of the mushroom structure, for example by velcro tapes provided at the appropriate position.
- the cover 25 as shown in FIG. 1C also illustrates how windows 25 a and openings 25 b may be provided.
- FIG. 2A to 2 C another embodiment of the present invention is shown in the form of a generally olive-shaped space ship.
- the fabric cover is not shown in order to review the supporting structures therein. It is understood that openings may be provided in the enclosure for a user such as a child to enter the space ship and reside within the confines of the frames.
- Frame 42 is fixedly sewn onto the inner side of the cover, and frames 44 and 46 are rotatably coupled therein using an elastic band attached to the cover at the two side ends 48 and 50 of the spaceship such that frames 44 and 46 are rotatable along a horizontal as 52 that also coincides with their respective longitudinal axis of symmetry. In the expanded position as shown, the three frames intersect each other at an angle of 60 degrees.
- FIG. 2B shows one large reinforcement loop 54 provided at one end of the olive-shaped structure and aligned perpendicularly to the axis 52 .
- the vertical alignment of the reinforcement loop relative to the horizontal axis of rotation is referred to as attachment of the reinforcement loop to the vertical girth of the frames.
- Fixing means such as Velcro tapes are provided at the relevant position of the inner side of the enclosure for the secure position thereof.
- the reinforcement loop 54 assumes a curved shape 54 a along 3 ⁇ 4 of sides, but contains on flat side 54 b which is preferably facing the floor to stabilize the entire spaceship structure.
- FIGS. 2C and 2D shows two further reinforcement loops 56 and 58 provided at the mid-section and right-end section of the space ship. Again, Velcro tapes are provided along the designated positions of the inner side of the cover for fixed attachment thereto. Again, the bottom side of these two reinforcement loops are flat to provide stability to the whole structure.
- the three reinforcement loops may again be detached and the three frames 42 , 44 and 46 be rotated to superimpose on each other in the collapsed form. If the three frames are large, and made of a semi-rigid material, they can be further twisted and folded simultaneously each into two or three concentric circles for storage. The three frames will stay within the fabric of the cover, and they are attached or coupled to the inner side thereof, and therefore the entire structure would conveniently be stored. The three reinforcement frames may also be twisted and folded and put in the same small bag for storage.
- FIG. 3 shows another embodiment in which the basic enclosure or cover is a cube 60 , supported by two square frames 62 and 64 .
- One optional square reinforcement frames 66 and one optional abutment frame 68 are also provided at the top and bottom respectively of the enclosure, said fixed thereto by fixing means such as Velcro tapes.
- An opening 70 is provided on the cover for a user to access the interior. Windows 70 a are also provided.
- four additional conical/cylindrical structures 72 are provided at the four corners to give the structure the appearance of a castle. The structures 72 are simply attached onto the expanded cover using velcro tape as illustrated in the shaped area 74 . For ease of illustration, only one of the four areas is shaped so as not to obscure the other structures.
- the present invention may clearly be practised with more than two loops.
- this may be a substitution for the reinforcement frames in the larger enclosures.
- the loops may be, for example, spread evenly at 60 degree angles into three evenly distributed frames.
- the bottom pad if desired, may be a hexagon.
- the coupling means as described in the first example actually uses the cover therefor, with the two frames fixed thereto except at the points of intersection, while elastic band is described as the coupling means in the second example.
- elastic band is described as the coupling means in the second example.
- strings and mechanical joints may also be used.
Abstract
A foldable enclosure structure containing a fabric cover defining a desired shape when expanded to an expanded position; a first supporting frame fixedly attached to the cover and a second supporting frame provided within the cover and rotatably coupled to the first frame such that the second frame is movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position. The second frame is superposed over the first frame in the collapsed position for ease of storage, but is rotated axially to intersect with the first frame in the expanded position to prop up the cover to the desired shape. To ensure that the structure is stable in the expanded position, fixing means is/are provided for fixedly attaching the second frame to the first frame in the expanded position.
Description
- The present invention is related to collapsible toy structures such as tents and playhouses.
- Collapsible structures that are used for playhouses are well-known in the art. They are typically collapsible into a small volume but can be easily popped up by various means, including the use of extendable frames and inflatable tubes. U.S. Pat. No. 6,305,396 described a collapsible structure that is provided with a plurality of foldable frame members each having a folded and an unfolded orientation. A fabric material is provided for covering a portion of each frame member to form a side panel therefrom. The structure may be folded and stored by folding the side panels and their corresponding frame members on top of each other about the hinge portions to have the side panels and frame members overlying each other. The overlying side panels and frame members are then collapsed by twisting and folding to form a plurality of concentric frame members to substantially reduce the size of the structure.
- The above described structure has many advantages, but has the limitation of not being able to create structures with irregular sides or unusual shapes. On solution to this problem is provided by the Airmaze air play tent that uses a fan to blow the enclosure open. The fan, however, obviously poses a hazard, especially to small children. It is therefore an object to have the present invention to provide improved collapsible structures.
- Accordingly, the present invention provides a foldable enclosure structure containing a fabric cover defining a desired shape when expanded to an expanded position; a first supporting frame attached to the cover; and a second supporting frame provided within the cover and rotatably coupled to the first frame such that the second frame is movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position. According to the structure of the instant invention, the second frame is superposed over the first frame in the collapsed position for ease of storage, but is rotated axially to intersect with the first frame in the expanded position to prop up the cover to the desired shape. To ensure that the structure is stable in the expanded position, fixing means are provided for fixedly attaching the second frame to the first frame in the expanded position.
- In the preferred embodiment, the shape of the two frames assume the same shape as the cross-sectional shape of the cover along the points to which they attach such that they are effectively prop up the cover in the expanded position.
- In another embodiment, the first and second frames are both fixedly sewn onto the cover. The frames may be sewn either onto the inner or outer sides of the cover. The intersections between the first and second frames are left unsewn, such that the two frames can rotate axially relative to each other.
- In another preferred embodiment, the first and second frames are each foldable from an open position to a folded position, the folded position achievable by twisting and folding the frames into at least two concentric circles. Since the two frames are superimposed onto each other in the collapsed position, it is most convenient for the user to twist and fold the two frames together simultaneously. This would reduce the total area of the collapsed structure to a minimum.
- In one specific embodiment of a toy house, the first and second frames are each in the general shape of a loop and containing a first and second central vertical axis respectively. The first and second frames are coupled together such that the first and second central vertical axes coincide with each other, and the second frame rotatable therealong. In this embodiment, the two loops may be coupled theretogether by an elastic band provided at the top intersection between the frames. In another preferred embodiment, the fixing means is a set of Velcro tapes that allow the two frames to be fixedly attached together after the second frame has been rotated to the expanded position.
- In another embodiment, the fixing means is a bottom pad for mounting onto the bottom of the enclosure. This bottom pad has a bottom frame shaped to match the shape of the bottom of the desired shape for abutment of the first and second frame in the expanded position.
- Near the top of the structure, at least one reinforcement frame may further be attachable along the girth of the first and second frames in the expanded position to prop up the cover to the desired shape. This reinforcement frame is preferably attached to the first and second frames after they are arranged into the expanded position.
- In another preferred embodiment, the cover defines a complete enclosure with a top portion, a bottom portion and side portions for sheltering at least one person therein, the cover further provided with at least one opening for the person to access therethrough.
- In another embodiment, the first and second frames are each in the general shape of a loop with a first and second central horizontal axis respectively. The first and second frames are coupled together such that the first and second central horizontal axes coincide with each other, and the second frame rotatable therealong. This embodiment is suitable for shapes such as aeroplanes and airships. In the preferred embodiment, the fixing means is at least one loop attachable to the first and second frames along the vertical girth for abutment in the expanded position.
- In another aspect of the present invention, a method of supporting a fabric enclose is provided comprising providing a plurality of rigid or semi-rigid loops having a shape of a second of the enclosure and defining a central axis therein; fixedly attaching one of the loop to a cross-section of the enclosure; and coupling the other loop or loops to the attached loop at a position wherein the loop or loops are rotatable along the central axis relative to the attached loop. In the preferred method, the loops in pre-determined relative position are abutted into position using a reinforcement frame.
- Using the teaching provided herein, many different structure with various shapes may be made. The structures may be expanded to huge enclosures, but readily collapsible into a very small package of concentric circles for ease of handling and storage. The time and skills required to construct the structure is nominal, since it is capable of expanding upon release, and the loops are coupled together such that they only need to be rotated into the appropriate expanded position, and the fixing means attached.
- FIG. 1A is a drawing of an exploded view of the supporting structures according to one embodiment of the present invention. The fabric cover is not shown for ease of understanding.
- FIG. 1B shows the assembled supporting structures according to the same embodiment as FIG. 1A. The fabric cover is not shown.
- FIG. 1C shows the perspective view of the fully expanded cover of the enclosure structure according to the same embodiment as FIG. 1A with windows and openings that can be provided on the cover.
- FIG. 1D shows the step of the folding process for a frame into three concentric loops.
- FIG. 2A shows a second embodiment according to the present invention in which a first, second and third frames are rotatable along a horizontal axis in an expanded position.
- FIG. 2B shows an additional reinforcement loop provided within the structure shown in FIG. 2A.
- FIGS. 2C and 2D shows a second and third reinforcement loop provided respectively within the structure shown in FIG. 2B.
- FIG. 3 shows a third embodiment of the present invention in which additional structures are provided.
- In the following description and in the claims, the term “fabric” is simply used to describe a material that has the collapsible and foldable characteristics of a fabric, and is not meant to limit the instant invention to any particular type of material. The cover may be made of, among other things, nylon, cotton, leather, PVC and other natural, synthetic or blended material. The term “loop” is defined loosely as any rigid or semi-rigid frame that forms a complete piece without any break in the frame. The “loop” may be of any shape, such as circular, triangular, quadrilateral, polylateral, mushroom, or any other regular or irregular shape. A “semi-rigid” frame has the characteristic of maintaining a defined shape when it is expanded into the fully open position, but can also be folded, or twisted into concentric circles, or otherwise collapsible by other ways.
- Referring to FIGS. 1A to1C, the first embodiment exemplifying the present invention shows two
identical frames first frame 22 is sewn and fixed onto the appropriate position along the cover. The first frame is sewn on the inside of the cover. In the operating position, the two frames are provided in the upright position, each with a central vertical axis defined therein (in FIG. 1A, the two frames are positioned such that their central axes coincide along line 26). In this embodiment, the second frame is also be fixedly sewn onto the inside of the cover, except that the points ofintersection arrow 40. In this embodiment, first and second frames may be sewn either on the outside or the inside of the cover, and are considered “rotatably coupled” with the cover itself acting as the coupling means. - In this example, the frames are arranged such that they are axially aligned along the vertical axis and, when the frames are in the expanded position, intersect at a 90 degree angle. In this embodiment, three
optional reinforcement loops square pad 38 with a semi-rigid frame is also provided.Pad 38 assumes the same shape as defined by the bottom of the two frames, and once it is inserted into the enclosure as shown in FIG. 1B, the two frames would be secured at a 90 degree angle. The three reinforcement loops can then be attached along various heights of the girth of the top portion of the mushroom structure, for example by velcro tapes provided at the appropriate position. Thecover 25 as shown in FIG. 1C also illustrates howwindows 25 a andopenings 25 b may be provided. - When a user wants to store the mushroom in a small package, the semi-rigid
detachable reinforcement loops pad 38 are removed.Frame 24 is then rotated according to general direction shown byarrow 40 such thatframe - Referring now to FIG. 2A to2C, another embodiment of the present invention is shown in the form of a generally olive-shaped space ship. In this example, there are three
identical frames Frame 42 is fixedly sewn onto the inner side of the cover, and frames 44 and 46 are rotatably coupled therein using an elastic band attached to the cover at the two side ends 48 and 50 of the spaceship such that frames 44 and 46 are rotatable along a horizontal as 52 that also coincides with their respective longitudinal axis of symmetry. In the expanded position as shown, the three frames intersect each other at an angle of 60 degrees. - FIG. 2B shows one
large reinforcement loop 54 provided at one end of the olive-shaped structure and aligned perpendicularly to theaxis 52. For ease of description, the vertical alignment of the reinforcement loop relative to the horizontal axis of rotation is referred to as attachment of the reinforcement loop to the vertical girth of the frames. Fixing means such as Velcro tapes are provided at the relevant position of the inner side of the enclosure for the secure position thereof. In the specific example, thereinforcement loop 54 assumes acurved shape 54 a along ¾ of sides, but contains onflat side 54 b which is preferably facing the floor to stabilize the entire spaceship structure. - FIGS. 2C and 2D shows two
further reinforcement loops - When a user wishes to store the spaceship in a small package, the three reinforcement loops may again be detached and the three
frames - FIG. 3 shows another embodiment in which the basic enclosure or cover is a
cube 60, supported by twosquare frames optional abutment frame 68 are also provided at the top and bottom respectively of the enclosure, said fixed thereto by fixing means such as Velcro tapes. Anopening 70 is provided on the cover for a user to access the interior. Windows 70 a are also provided. In this example, four additional conical/cylindrical structures 72 are provided at the four corners to give the structure the appearance of a castle. Thestructures 72 are simply attached onto the expanded cover using velcro tape as illustrated in the shapedarea 74. For ease of illustration, only one of the four areas is shaped so as not to obscure the other structures. - Although the above example has been described generally with two or three identically shaped frames or loops, the present invention may clearly be practised with more than two loops. For example, this may be a substitution for the reinforcement frames in the larger enclosures. In such a case, the loops may be, for example, spread evenly at 60 degree angles into three evenly distributed frames. The bottom pad, if desired, may be a hexagon.
- While the present invention has been described with particular reference to the aforementioned figures, it is understood that the figures are for illustration only, and the instant invention is not limited thereto. It is intended that the scope of the present invention be defined by the claims appended herewith, and include many variations and embodiments not specifically described herein. For example, the intersection of the frames in the examples are described as having 60 or 90 degree angles, but it is clear that, depending on the shape and size of the enclosure, the absence or presence of the optional reinforcement frames and other abutment means etc would affect the number and arrangement of the frames used for the fully expanded position. Furthermore, one of the fixing means are described as bottom pad or velcro tapes, but it is clear that other fixing means, such as zippers, tying cloth or string, button etc way also be used. The coupling means as described in the first example actually uses the cover therefor, with the two frames fixed thereto except at the points of intersection, while elastic band is described as the coupling means in the second example. Many other alternative arrangements may be used. For example, strings and mechanical joints may also be used.
Claims (16)
1. A foldable enclosure structure comprising:
a) a fabric cover defining a desired shape when expanded to an expanded position;
b) a first supporting frame attached to said cover; and
c) a second supporting frame rotatably coupled to said first frame such that said second frame is movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position whereby said second frame is superposed over said first frame in said collapsed position for ease of storage, and said second frame is rotated axially to intersect with said first frame in said expanded position is attached to said cover to prop up said cover to said desired shape; and
d) fixing means for fixedly attaching said second frame to said first frame in the expanded position.
2. A structure according to claim 1 wherein said first frame is fixedly attached to said cover.
3. A structure according to claim 2 wherein said second frame is fixedly attached to said cover.
4. A structure according to claim 2 wherein said first frame in the open position has a shape that is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the cover along the attachment points therebetween.
5. A structure according to claim 2 wherein said second frame in the open position has a shape that is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the cover along the attachment points therebetween.
6. A structure according to claim 2 wherein said first and second frames are each foldable from an open position to a folded position, said folded position achievable by twisting and folding each said frame into at least two concentric circles.
7. A structure according to claim 2 wherein said fixing means is a Velcro tape, a pair of strings, a zipper, a rigid coupler or a ball joint.
8. A structure according to claim 2 wherein said fixing means is a bottom pad for mounting onto the bottom of said enclosure, said bottom pad having a bottom frame shaped to match the shape of the bottom of said desired shape for abutment of said first and second frame in said expanded position.
9. A structure according to claim 2 further comprising at least one reinforcement frame attachable along the girth of said first and second frames in said expanded position to prop up said cover to said desired shape.
10. A structure according to claim 2 wherein said first and second frames are each in the general shape of a loop and containing a first and second central vertical axis respectively, said first and second frame coupled together such that said first and second central vertical axes are coinciding therewith and said second frame rotatable therealong.
11. A structure according to claim 10 wherein said cover defines a complete enclosure with a top portion, a bottom portion and side portions for sheltering at least one person therein, said cover further provided with at least one opening for the person to access therethrough.
12. A structure according to claim 11 wherein said fixing means is a bottom pad for mounting onto the bottom of said enclosure, said bottom pad having a bottom frame shaped to match the shape of the bottom of said desired shape for abutment of said first and second frame in said expanded position
13. A structure according to claim 2 wherein said first and second frames are each in the general shape of a loop and containing a first and second central horizontal axis respectively, said first and second frame coupled together such that said first and second central horizontal axes are coinciding therewith and said second frame rotatable therealong.
14. A structure according to claim 13 wherein said fixing means is at least one loop attachable to said first and second frames along the vertical girth for abutment in the expanded position.
15. A method of supporting a fabric enclosure comprising providing a plurality of rigid or semi-rigid loops having a shape of a section of the enclosure and defining a central axis therein; fixedly attaching one of said loop to a cross-section of said enclosure; and coupling the other loop or loops to said attached loop at a position wherein said loop or loops are rotatable along said central axis relative to said attached loop.
16. A method according to claim 15 further comprising abutting said loops in pre-determined relative position using a reinforcement frame.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/283,364 US7252107B2 (en) | 2003-03-27 | 2005-11-18 | Pop up collapsible structures |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
HK03102223A HK1060017A2 (en) | 2003-03-27 | 2003-03-27 | Pop up collapsible structures |
HK03102223.2 | 2003-03-27 |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/283,364 Division US7252107B2 (en) | 2003-03-27 | 2005-11-18 | Pop up collapsible structures |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20040187903A1 true US20040187903A1 (en) | 2004-09-30 |
Family
ID=32843746
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/404,933 Abandoned US20040187903A1 (en) | 2003-03-27 | 2003-04-01 | Pop up collapsible structures |
US11/283,364 Expired - Fee Related US7252107B2 (en) | 2003-03-27 | 2005-11-18 | Pop up collapsible structures |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/283,364 Expired - Fee Related US7252107B2 (en) | 2003-03-27 | 2005-11-18 | Pop up collapsible structures |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US20040187903A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1462590A1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN100430568C (en) |
CA (1) | CA2458845C (en) |
HK (1) | HK1060017A2 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20060135033A1 (en) * | 2004-10-15 | 2006-06-22 | Ross Evans | Structure building toy |
GB2509559A (en) * | 2013-04-18 | 2014-07-09 | William Donaldson | Building structure with hexagonal cross section |
USD737919S1 (en) | 2014-05-07 | 2015-09-01 | Meadowbrook LLC | Children's camper play tent |
Families Citing this family (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20070163733A1 (en) * | 2006-01-13 | 2007-07-19 | William Phillips | Collapsible paintball bunker |
CN2882241Y (en) * | 2006-03-30 | 2007-03-28 | 厦门进雄企业有限公司 | Pet's nest |
TW200803772A (en) * | 2006-07-11 | 2008-01-16 | Wei-Hen Yang | Auxiliary modeling structure of bedding |
JP4914470B2 (en) * | 2009-08-28 | 2012-04-11 | 静岡ダイカスト株式会社 | Vertical display |
GB2493564A (en) | 2011-08-12 | 2013-02-13 | Finecard Internat Ltd | A collapsible, portable structure |
US20140349791A1 (en) * | 2013-05-21 | 2014-11-27 | Peter Schiller | Pocket ball toy |
CN108894585B (en) * | 2018-06-05 | 2020-06-19 | 湖北鱼鹤制衣有限公司 | Mountain-climbing tent for cultural and sports articles |
Citations (34)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3105505A (en) * | 1961-04-10 | 1963-10-01 | Richard A Maybee | Multiple purpose portable and collapsible tent |
US3625235A (en) * | 1969-07-03 | 1971-12-07 | Peter Gorgichuk | Portable shelter |
US3987580A (en) * | 1975-07-17 | 1976-10-26 | Steven Ausnit | Separably connective flexible toy |
US4073105A (en) * | 1972-11-29 | 1978-02-14 | Daugherty Charles R | Temporary structure |
US4825892A (en) * | 1988-02-29 | 1989-05-02 | Pure Concepts, Inc. | Instantly stable, quickly erectable and quickly collapsible portable structure |
US5038812A (en) * | 1989-08-18 | 1991-08-13 | Spring Form, Inc. | Quickly erectable, quickly collapsible, self supporting portable structure |
US5137044A (en) * | 1990-10-12 | 1992-08-11 | Brady David S | Collapsible tent structure |
US5238015A (en) * | 1989-05-31 | 1993-08-24 | Floris Gretzmacher | Foldable dummy object for camouflage purposes |
US5301705A (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 1994-04-12 | Yu Zheng | Collapsible shade structure |
US5411046A (en) * | 1992-02-03 | 1995-05-02 | Arrow Link Industries Limited | Tent |
US5457794A (en) * | 1992-04-17 | 1995-10-10 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Information retrieval apparatus for searching target literature data from an information recording medium, including reuse of past retrieving results |
US5560385A (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 1996-10-01 | Zheng; Yu | Collapsible play structures |
US5579799A (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 1996-12-03 | Zheng; Yu | Collapsible shade structure |
US5778915A (en) * | 1996-12-26 | 1998-07-14 | Patent Category Corporation | Collapsible structures |
US6092544A (en) * | 1996-09-20 | 2000-07-25 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible structures having overlapping support loops |
US6109281A (en) * | 1995-10-16 | 2000-08-29 | Jacpaq Limited | Sunshade device |
US6138701A (en) * | 1996-09-20 | 2000-10-31 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible structures having overlapping support loops |
US6220265B1 (en) * | 1998-09-14 | 2001-04-24 | Patent Category Corp. | Adjustable collapsible panels |
US6257263B1 (en) * | 1999-07-10 | 2001-07-10 | Finecard International Limited | Pop-up tent |
US6269826B1 (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 2001-08-07 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible play structures |
US20010011550A1 (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 2001-08-09 | Yu Zheng | Collapsible structures |
US6284330B1 (en) * | 2000-02-18 | 2001-09-04 | Mr. Christmas, Inc. | Expandable three-dimensional display device |
US6305396B1 (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 2001-10-23 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible structures |
US6311709B1 (en) * | 1999-12-23 | 2001-11-06 | Billwin Auto Accessories, Ltd. | Self-erecting, collapsible and foldable dome structure |
US6328050B1 (en) * | 2000-03-02 | 2001-12-11 | Mcconnell Thomas E. | Self-expecting foldable portable structure |
US6357462B1 (en) * | 2000-02-17 | 2002-03-19 | Battat, Inc. | Portable playpen |
US6357510B1 (en) * | 1999-04-06 | 2002-03-19 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible support frames |
US6360761B1 (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 2002-03-26 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible play structures |
US6363955B1 (en) * | 2000-01-10 | 2002-04-02 | Billwin Auto Accessories, Ltd. | Self-deploying tubular enclosure |
US20020078989A1 (en) * | 1996-09-20 | 2002-06-27 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible structures having overlapping support loops |
US6499489B1 (en) * | 2000-05-12 | 2002-12-31 | R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company | Tobacco-based cooked casing formulation |
US20030070703A1 (en) * | 1996-09-20 | 2003-04-17 | Yu Zheng | Collapsible storage devices |
US20040168715A1 (en) * | 2003-03-02 | 2004-09-02 | Ching-Hsuan Wang | Tent |
US6827094B1 (en) * | 1999-03-17 | 2004-12-07 | Hugh William Bramwells | Shielding assembly |
Family Cites Families (14)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
GB2061351A (en) | 1979-09-15 | 1981-05-13 | Aspen G J | Shelters |
US5394897A (en) * | 1993-06-28 | 1995-03-07 | Ritchey; Michael T. | Tent system |
US5618246A (en) * | 1995-07-10 | 1997-04-08 | Zheng; Yu | Collapsible play tunnel structures |
US5943709A (en) * | 1998-07-28 | 1999-08-31 | Chiu; Hsin-Yuan | Swimming pool assembly |
US6155261A (en) | 1999-03-22 | 2000-12-05 | Day; Daniel K. | Method and apparatus for relieving intraocular pressure |
GB9911991D0 (en) * | 1999-05-25 | 1999-07-21 | Worlds Apart Limited | Collapsible structure |
GB2351093A (en) | 1999-06-17 | 2000-12-20 | Hugeway Invest Ltd | A portable self-erecting structure |
GB2369381B (en) * | 1999-10-18 | 2003-01-08 | Worlds Apart Ltd | Collapsible fabric structures with coilable supports |
US6360760B1 (en) | 1999-12-03 | 2002-03-26 | Billwin Auto Accessories Limited | Self-erecting and collapsible shelter |
US6694994B1 (en) | 2000-03-28 | 2004-02-24 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible structures |
CN2469113Y (en) * | 2001-03-16 | 2002-01-02 | 贾旭满 | Semi-sphere folding tent |
US6854476B1 (en) * | 2002-03-05 | 2005-02-15 | Winplus Company, Ltd. | Easily constructable and collapsible portable tents |
USD493506S1 (en) * | 2002-06-25 | 2004-07-27 | Worlds Apart Ltd. | Tent |
USD482797S1 (en) * | 2002-10-15 | 2003-11-25 | Simon Chiu | Associated swimming pool |
-
2003
- 2003-03-27 HK HK03102223A patent/HK1060017A2/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2003-04-01 US US10/404,933 patent/US20040187903A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2004
- 2004-02-24 CA CA002458845A patent/CA2458845C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2004-03-08 EP EP04251330A patent/EP1462590A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2004-03-26 CN CNB2004100322266A patent/CN100430568C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2005
- 2005-11-18 US US11/283,364 patent/US7252107B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Patent Citations (43)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3105505A (en) * | 1961-04-10 | 1963-10-01 | Richard A Maybee | Multiple purpose portable and collapsible tent |
US3625235A (en) * | 1969-07-03 | 1971-12-07 | Peter Gorgichuk | Portable shelter |
US4073105A (en) * | 1972-11-29 | 1978-02-14 | Daugherty Charles R | Temporary structure |
US3987580A (en) * | 1975-07-17 | 1976-10-26 | Steven Ausnit | Separably connective flexible toy |
US4825892A (en) * | 1988-02-29 | 1989-05-02 | Pure Concepts, Inc. | Instantly stable, quickly erectable and quickly collapsible portable structure |
US5238015A (en) * | 1989-05-31 | 1993-08-24 | Floris Gretzmacher | Foldable dummy object for camouflage purposes |
US5038812A (en) * | 1989-08-18 | 1991-08-13 | Spring Form, Inc. | Quickly erectable, quickly collapsible, self supporting portable structure |
US5137044A (en) * | 1990-10-12 | 1992-08-11 | Brady David S | Collapsible tent structure |
US5579799A (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 1996-12-03 | Zheng; Yu | Collapsible shade structure |
US20020096205A1 (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 2002-07-25 | Patent Category Corp..3 | Collapsible structures |
US6305396B1 (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 2001-10-23 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible structures |
US5560385A (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 1996-10-01 | Zheng; Yu | Collapsible play structures |
US6360761B1 (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 2002-03-26 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible play structures |
US5664596A (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 1997-09-09 | Zheng; Yu | Collapsible play structures |
US6390111B2 (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 2002-05-21 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible structures |
US5816279A (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 1998-10-06 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible play structures |
US20010011550A1 (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 2001-08-09 | Yu Zheng | Collapsible structures |
US6269826B1 (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 2001-08-07 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible play structures |
US5301705A (en) * | 1991-09-24 | 1994-04-12 | Yu Zheng | Collapsible shade structure |
US5411046A (en) * | 1992-02-03 | 1995-05-02 | Arrow Link Industries Limited | Tent |
US5457794A (en) * | 1992-04-17 | 1995-10-10 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Information retrieval apparatus for searching target literature data from an information recording medium, including reuse of past retrieving results |
US6109281A (en) * | 1995-10-16 | 2000-08-29 | Jacpaq Limited | Sunshade device |
US6499498B1 (en) * | 1996-09-20 | 2002-12-31 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible structures having overlapping support loops |
US6138701A (en) * | 1996-09-20 | 2000-10-31 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible structures having overlapping support loops |
US20020078989A1 (en) * | 1996-09-20 | 2002-06-27 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible structures having overlapping support loops |
US6092544A (en) * | 1996-09-20 | 2000-07-25 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible structures having overlapping support loops |
US20030070703A1 (en) * | 1996-09-20 | 2003-04-17 | Yu Zheng | Collapsible storage devices |
US6209557B1 (en) * | 1996-12-26 | 2001-04-03 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible structures |
US6604537B2 (en) * | 1996-12-26 | 2003-08-12 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible structures |
US5778915A (en) * | 1996-12-26 | 1998-07-14 | Patent Category Corporation | Collapsible structures |
US6155281A (en) * | 1996-12-26 | 2000-12-05 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible structures |
US6220265B1 (en) * | 1998-09-14 | 2001-04-24 | Patent Category Corp. | Adjustable collapsible panels |
US6827094B1 (en) * | 1999-03-17 | 2004-12-07 | Hugh William Bramwells | Shielding assembly |
US6357510B1 (en) * | 1999-04-06 | 2002-03-19 | Patent Category Corp. | Collapsible support frames |
US20020088564A1 (en) * | 1999-04-06 | 2002-07-11 | Yu Zheng | Collapsible support frames |
US6257263B1 (en) * | 1999-07-10 | 2001-07-10 | Finecard International Limited | Pop-up tent |
US6311709B1 (en) * | 1999-12-23 | 2001-11-06 | Billwin Auto Accessories, Ltd. | Self-erecting, collapsible and foldable dome structure |
US6363955B1 (en) * | 2000-01-10 | 2002-04-02 | Billwin Auto Accessories, Ltd. | Self-deploying tubular enclosure |
US6357462B1 (en) * | 2000-02-17 | 2002-03-19 | Battat, Inc. | Portable playpen |
US6284330B1 (en) * | 2000-02-18 | 2001-09-04 | Mr. Christmas, Inc. | Expandable three-dimensional display device |
US6328050B1 (en) * | 2000-03-02 | 2001-12-11 | Mcconnell Thomas E. | Self-expecting foldable portable structure |
US6499489B1 (en) * | 2000-05-12 | 2002-12-31 | R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company | Tobacco-based cooked casing formulation |
US20040168715A1 (en) * | 2003-03-02 | 2004-09-02 | Ching-Hsuan Wang | Tent |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20060135033A1 (en) * | 2004-10-15 | 2006-06-22 | Ross Evans | Structure building toy |
GB2509559A (en) * | 2013-04-18 | 2014-07-09 | William Donaldson | Building structure with hexagonal cross section |
GB2509559B (en) * | 2013-04-18 | 2015-02-25 | William Donaldson | Building structure, method and assembly |
USD737919S1 (en) | 2014-05-07 | 2015-09-01 | Meadowbrook LLC | Children's camper play tent |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP1462590A1 (en) | 2004-09-29 |
HK1060017A2 (en) | 2004-06-25 |
US20060070648A1 (en) | 2006-04-06 |
AU2004200760A1 (en) | 2004-10-14 |
CA2458845A1 (en) | 2004-09-27 |
US7252107B2 (en) | 2007-08-07 |
CA2458845C (en) | 2008-09-09 |
CN1538023A (en) | 2004-10-20 |
CN100430568C (en) | 2008-11-05 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7252107B2 (en) | Pop up collapsible structures | |
US6453923B2 (en) | Collapsible structures | |
US7225822B1 (en) | Collapsible structures | |
US6491052B1 (en) | Collapsible panels having multiple frame members | |
US6604537B2 (en) | Collapsible structures | |
US6318394B1 (en) | Collapsible structures | |
US5664596A (en) | Collapsible play structures | |
EP0681636B1 (en) | Self-erecting portable fabric structure | |
US8667626B2 (en) | Collapsible baby play station | |
US6357510B1 (en) | Collapsible support frames | |
US6698441B1 (en) | Collapsible structures | |
US5809592A (en) | Self-erecting play yard structure | |
US20020096205A1 (en) | Collapsible structures | |
US20030168093A1 (en) | Collapsible sleeping structures | |
US7472715B2 (en) | Collapsible structures | |
US20090025767A1 (en) | Collapsible structures | |
US20110269373A1 (en) | Collapsible structures with carrying feature | |
US20060249191A1 (en) | Collapsible panels having multiple frame members |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: BEST TIDE MFG. CO., LTD., CHINA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:CHU, WAN-SING;WU, LAI-HA;REEL/FRAME:014296/0309 Effective date: 20030610 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |