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This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/523,530 filed Nov. 19, 2003, and relates to structures and components thereof.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
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The application discloses a variety of improvements to structures and components thereof and other equipment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
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FIG. 1 is a side elevation of one element of the structural system.
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FIG. 2 is a side elevation of a similar element of the structural system of greater length.
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FIG. 3 is an elevation of the element in the prior Figure rotated 90 degrees about its long axis.
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FIG. 4 is an elevation of an element similar to that in the prior figure, whose terminators have been bent.
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FIG. 5 is an elevation showing a plurality of elements like those in the prior Figures at a joint/intersection.
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FIG. 6 is a side view of a complex structure assembled from the elements of the prior Figures.
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FIG. 7 is a front elevation of a complex structure in which otherwise parallel members of different length are used to produce curved or facetted shape.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
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Prior trusses and similar structures are typically fabricated by the use of parallel lengths of continuous tubing for the main chords of the truss, parallel to its elongated centerline, and then machining shorter lengths of tube stock to form intersecting cross-bracing between such main chords, which are welded in place. In less expensive versions, cross-bracing is provided by continuous rod that is repeatedly bent to “zig-zag” back and forth between main chord tubes. Trusses are typically fabricated in sections that, for reasons of modularity and shipping, are far shorter than the desired span of the final structure. A load-bearing detail for joining multiple sections end-wise in the field is required.
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Trusses fabricated using these methods are essentially hand-built and custom; cannot be altered in design or repaired in the field; and consume considerable volume in shipping; and are bulky in handling. There are also particular disadvantages when the truss is curved or facetted along its elongated centerline because of the increased complexity in fabrication and increased volume consumed in shipping.
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FIGS. 1-5 illustrate an improved method of truss fabrication with many advantages.
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At least the members used to cross-brace the main chords are fabricated by flattening tube stock to form a “tab” and punching at least one pass hole for a bolt or other fastener. (For example, tab 10A and pass hole 10B in the case of member/structural element 10 of FIG. 1.) The “tab” may also be bent (as illustrated in FIG. 4) to provide for connections at angles and/or attached to intermediate, angled brackets. Such cross-braces can then be bolted to the main chords either in the shop or in the field to form a structure. However, as illustrated in FIG. 5, similar elements/members can be used to form all parts of the structure, including the main chords, such that the truss or other structure is entirely assembled from a selection of these relatively-short members, completely in the shop; completely in the field; or assembled in intermediate lengths (sections) that are field-joined on site. The method is extremely flexible, allowing trusses in a vast number of sizes and shapes to be assembled from a relatively small number of components. Specific trusses can be modified, repaired, and even “recycled” by changing members. And, if stocked and shipped as individual members, the system is extremely efficient in stocking and transport.
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The system is also very efficient in producing structures having curves, facets, and angles. As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, complex structures can be produced, as can curved or facetted structures by using members that are longer on one side (e.g. element/member 71 of FIG. 7) of a structure than the other (e.g. element/member 72)—a segmented curve can be formed from “standard” straight members (although such members could also be radiused).
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Such an approach has advantages in many applications, including trusses and space frames used in architectural applications.
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One application is, for example, in structures that support solar arrays, which must be supported and at specific angles. Such a supporting structure can be free-standing or attached to a building or other structure. It will be seen that the tremendous flexibility of the disclosed approach allows near infinite variation in structure design.
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FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate solar panels attached to one portion of a structure.
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In addition to the arrays often seen on roofs; such a structure can serve other functions. Such structures can be used to fabricate awnings or canopies over building entrances or walkways; providing protection from sun, rain, and snow.
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Such panels can be mounted to buildings to serve as sun-shades or awnings over windows, serving the dual functions of generating power and of reducing solar gain (and, therefore, the need for air-conditioning).
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Whether they rely on photocells or heat a fluid, such panels can take many forms, including in the former case, not only the traditional rigid panels, but flexible materials that can be adhered to a rigid backing or used as a fabric.
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In the case of sun-shades, for example, types are known in which a series of relatively narrow and vertical “slats” parallel the building wall/window opening. The height, angle, and spacing of the slats are set to block the sun's rays at specific angles. The sunward faces of such slats can mount photo-electric cells for power generation; the slots themselves can be, effectively, radiators that convert incident solar energy to heat transmitted to a fluid passing through them; and/or the sunward surface of the slat can incorporate shapes that concentrate incident light on the facing side of the next sunward slat or on a member inbetween.
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In applications of solar arrays, snow collecting on the array will block incident light and reduce the array's output until removed. Manually clearing snow from the array represents not only an inconvenience and in cost, but, given their typical location, a potential safety risk. The failure to clear snow promptly from the array may lead to a frozen “crust” that is difficult, at best, to remove.
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Desirably, therefore, means will be provided to apply sufficient heat to the exposed surfaces of the array that snow will melt rather than collect. In the case of arrays using fluids, the fluid can be heated as necessary and the array converted into a radiator. Photocell arrays can incorporate electric heater provisions, such as are used on car windows. And thin, flexible films applied to surfaces can be heated by heating the surface to which they are mounted—for example, such material applied to a metal roof can be warmed by heating the roof—which can be done from the rear side.
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Such “solar solutions” are typically installed exterior to a building, producing issues of mounting; weather; access; and appearance. But it is also possible to generate power and serve other, desirable functions in applications interior to a structure.
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Vertical or horizontal (“venetian”) blinds are mounted to window openings that admit energy, but are protected from the elements. Desirably, the slats of such “blinds” could be or be provided with “solar cells”. Desirably, their operation can be motorized and made responsive to factors including incident solar energy; time of day/day/season; and the occupancy of the adjacent space. If, for example, the space in which they are mounted is presently unoccupied, then, upon detecting significant solar energy from a local or a remote sensor, the “blinds/array” would be closed and optimized for maximum collection—which would also reduce heat gain into the space. If the space is occupied, it can be expected that many occupants, under conditions of bright, direct sunlight will prefer a “blind” setting that will result in power generation. Where the user does not intervene, the disposition of the “array” can be optimized for maximum generation—including predictively. As the sun's passage through the sky is predictable, entering the building's location and the “blind/array”'s compass orientation once on installation, would allow automatically setting optimum angle.
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In “vertical” blind applications, the “slats” can rotate to “follow the sun”—which has the benefit of generating power; reducing heat load; and preserving a shaded view.
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Where an energy-generating material can be made translucent or transparent, it can be used in a fashion that need not block views. Indeed, if transparent enough, the material can be permanently applied to window and curtain-wall surfaces.
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Materials are now known that electrically convert from transparent to translucent and such materials could be combined with a transparent solar generator material, such that the deployment of “blinds” for generating power need not block the occupants' views unless desired.
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One face of the “slats” in an array might include a coating that reflects solar energy and the other face a coating that absorbs it (or a material used whose properties depend upon the direction in which energy passes thru it). When solar gain in the space is not desired (as in summer) the reflective surface would be rotated toward the sun/exterior. When it is desired (in winter) the absorbtive face would be rotated toward the sun to produce “constructive thermal gain”.
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Such “solar solutions” are not limited to “blinds” with rigid slats. As flexible energy-generating materials come on-line, they can be used in roll-down “sun-shades”.
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And the exterior of a building, particularly one of modular construction, can include modules that absorb (or selectively absorb or reflect) solar energy and convert it into electrical and/or thermal output, while appearing integral to the building's architecture.
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Another application of trusses and other structures, including the modular approach previously disclosed, is in the creation of structures for recreational purposes.
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Many individuals would prefer to enjoy the recreational benefits of a lake, pool, beach or other body of water. For many millions, especially those in urban areas, such recreational opportunities are not very practical. Although many urban areas are built on or near bodies of water, such bodies of water are frequently not suitable for bathing. Travel to more suitable waters involves both time and expense, as well as braving the “rush hour” produced when large numbers travel to residences and recreation in outlying areas at the same time. Many suitable waters cannot be readily accessed without the use of a private automobile, which many urban dwellers do not own. There are generally few suitable facilities, particularly outdoor ones, in urban areas.
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The instant disclosure includes improved methods of fabricating and operating recreational facilities.
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Such facilities can be produced rapidly and relatively inexpensively by one of several means.
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One method is to “float” a pool on another body of water, particularly when that body of water is not itself suitable for bathing. The perimeter of the pool can be defined by the “shoreline” of the body of water and/or by floating structures such as pontoons, trusses, barges, buoys, etc. A membrane can be suspended between the perimeter elements and potable water pumped into it. The result is a pool of bathable water largely supported in and by the larger body of water, which may not be suitable for bathing.
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(Leaks in the membrane can be detected when the water quality of the pool water is tested. A “double-bottomed” double-membrane design can be used with the space between the two membranes filled with a buffer fluid that includes non-toxic compound that is readily detectable in the potable water contained by the inner membrane (for example, a colored dye). The density of the fluid in the intermediate layer can be adjusted and/or materials (like sand and gravel) inserted to assist in forming the membrane's shape. A leak in the outer membrane can be detected from testing the fluid in the intermediate layer and a leak in the inner membrane can be detected by the appearance of the tracer in the pool water.)
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The structures used to support the perimeter of the pool can also be used to support access decks, ladders, slides, seating areas, landscaping and other facilities. The shore adjacent can be used for the same function. Facilities can be packaged in modular elements—for example, cargo containers that can be trucked or barged to the facility location and deposited on shore or on a floating structure.
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One appeal of the disclosed approach is that it creates recreational bathing and related activities quickly and inexpensively on a body of water and many urban areas include extensive shorelines along rivers and bays that can be reached on foot, by taxis, bicycles, and by urban mass transit. The location of the facility on a body of water also permits access by watercraft such as ferries.
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As the facility is largely or completely on water, little is required on land, maximizing the number of and minimizing the costs and requirements for a suitable site.
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Such a facility is highly “portable”; can be readily relocated, expanded and/or reconfigured; and can be rapidly reproduced at a number of locations.
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Another alternative site is an excavation or other recess that may be a permanent feature of a site or may be the interim result, for example, of an ongoing construction project.
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Because of the versatility of its design; the economy of its fabrication; its efficiency in shipping; and its flexibility in being possible to modify, repair, and even “recycle” in the field, the disclosed structural approach has advantages in the construction of structures for such facilities. Modular scaffolding system like “Super-Scaf” also has application.
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In one example, as illustrated in FIG. ?, a structure defining the perimeter of a floating pool is constructed. That structure is made positively buoyant by wrapping it in a waterproof membrane and/or by incorporating buoyant elements like air-filled containers and/or closed cell foam. A perimeter deck and railings, etc. can be attached to the upper surface of the structure and the membrane or membranes that separate the potable water from the surrounding waters can be attached to the structure.
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The result is a uniquely fast, flexible, and economical method of producing a recreational facility that can be “deployed” on a temporary basis.
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Another aspect of the invention is a “floating hot tub”.
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Where a recreational body of water (ocean, lake, or pool) is present, there is frequently the desire to provide for a “hot tub” or “soak pool”—smaller volume of water at higher temperatures and often with jets.
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Typically, they require separate, rigid, in-ground or above-ground tubs that are expensive to purchase and hardly portable.
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Alternatively, such a “hot tub” or “soak pool” can be designed as a largely flexible assembly that floats in a larger body of water, drastically reducing the cost over traditional approaches and offering true portability and a wider range of applications.
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For example, a buoyant “ring” can be fabricated of closed-cell foam or an inflated shape. From that ring hangs a rigid or flexible “tub” or bag. Heated water is pumped into the interior of the “tub” or bag. Seats or benches can be suspended within it, as can tubing for “jets”. The material(s) used for the “tub” or “bag” can be thermally-insulating.
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The result is a simple, portable, and inexpensive solution that brings the luxury of a “hot tub” or “soak pool” to virtually any larger body of water. It can be floated in a pool, a lake, or in reasonably flat seas; used seasonally and stored; carried in cars and onboard boats.
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The functions of heating and circulating water; water treatment; and/or “jets” can be provided by several methods.
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Most pools include provisions for water circulation and water treatment and, in some cases, water heaters. The treated water in the pool can be diverted to fill the “tub”. The pool heater; an accessory heater (including a solar one); and/or domestic hot water can be used to raise the temperature in the “tub” above that in the pool. And the water in the “tub” can be returned to the general supply for treatment.
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A portable unit with pump, filter, and heater can be used where a connection to the apparatus of a larger pool is not available—for example, in portable applications.
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Several other improvements to larger aquatic facilities can be made:
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Traditional bathing facilities require and include public changing and locker rooms that consume large amounts of space and are less than private. A facility can, however, include a number of smaller, private or semi-private changing rooms. The function of a locker can be served by a lockable case or bin. Upon entering the changing room, several such cases or bins would be abutted/inserted from an external service area with their door in an opening in a wall of the changing room—resembling in appearance traditional lockers recessed in the wall surface. The customer would fill the locker/case and secure it. Upon leaving the changing room, the customer's sealed locker would be removed from the external service area side and placed in a high-density storage area. An empty locker would be positioned in the room opening for the next customer. When the customer is ready to leave the facility, they would request access to a changing room and upon reaching it would find that their locker had been retrieved from the high-density storage area and replaced in an opening in the changing room wall, such that they could recover their belongings as if the locker were permanently located in the wall. Varying degrees of privacy are possible as is direct access to the “locker” in a public area.
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Such bin/lockers can be handled manually or by mechanized, automated systems and positioned from the same and/or a higher or lower level.
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Various advantages would also result from a more efficient method of controlling access to and billing for the use of this or many other recreational facilities.
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Customers could, preferably, be able to reserve access to the facility at a specified day and time for a specified number of guests. This would assure the customer that they would gain access. By time-reserved reservations/entry and linking the customer's credit or debit card or account to his/her/their activities, a variety of benefits would result.
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Access to the facility could be priced—and re-priced—for yield management. Access in periods of high demand—whether due to time of day; day; date (holiday) and/or weather could be priced or re-priced to maximize revenues. Price could be based on the time spent at the facility in a given visit—again, as modified by time of day/day/weather/activities/etc.
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Once onsite, a customer account would allow convenient billing for facilities and services used—as well as purchases from concessions like drink and food service.
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A card, pendant, wristband, or other object incorporating a machine-readable identifier like a bar code or RFID and/or a personal PIN number the user could key into a POP interface would allow the user to charge access, goods, and services. Charges could be adjusted based on actual usage—for example, by the hour or quarter-hour for time spent in the facility; for use of a private changing room (with, for example, a certain charge for a defined period of use, for example, five minutes, with incremental and escalating additional charges if the changing room is not vacated after the defined period).
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Such an “account” system simplifies the purchase of, for example, food and drink, creating a “cash-less” environment. It also permits parents to enjoy the use of the facility while requiring less supervision of their children. A parent could, for example, during the reservation process, set up accounts for their children that would permit the parent to set dollar amount and other limits (for example, nutritional ones) on the purchases that could be made by their children on those accounts.
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While the advantages of such a bin/locker and such a reservations and account system are described in the context of one facility, it will be apparent that they have many other possible applications, not necessarily limited to only recreational ones.
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For example, in many applications, many persons present on a temporary basis in a venue will have needs to communicate with other parties at or outside of the same venue by a variety of means. Those individuals may bring a cell phone and perhap a personal computer to the event, but access to their cellular service and to data lines, much less high speed ones, may be limited and expensive. The individual may need to make copies and send and receive faxes. The individual may need to input or output information in the form of printed pages, drawings, or photographs, a task that requires the use of peripheral input or output devices that the individual will not have brought with them to the site, and to which they may not have access, unless via a “business center” or other business that may be distant, expensive, and not consistently available.
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One solution is the use of one or more “kiosk”, which can be portable or permanently installed at convenient locations.
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Such a kiosk can contain a variety of input and output devices such as printers, plotters, copiers, and scanners, whether discrete or integrated. The user may connect their personal computer to the kiosk either by means of a wired (e.g. Ethernet, USB, etc) or wireless connection (wireless local area network) and employ the input and output devices and functions needed. In a vending model, the user may be charged for the service(s) used.
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In one embodiment, a user would establish (or access an existing) account that would debit a credit card or a cash deposit for services used. For outgoing services (e.g., internet) the user would “log on” to the wired or wireless connection. For interactive services like copying, the user would move to a “kiosk” and interact directly.
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But tunctions like printing and incoming fax can be handled on a “store and retrieve” basis. That is, the user could send a file to be printed to the local network. The user could provide others with a temporary telephone number for incoming faxes. It would not, however, be necessary for the user to visit a kiosk to determine whether a fax had been received, nor a risk that a received fax or requested printout might be lost or fall into other hands. In the case of a fax, receipt of a fax by the system would result in a voice or digital page to the user at a number designated to inform them that a fax had been received and with the details of its length and sender ID. The user could then, at any time, approach any kiosk in the system and, upon entering a PIN or other identifying code, those faxes (and any pending print jobs) would print out in their presence. The system could also include provisions, accessed by a user via telephone and/or on-line connections to redirect faxes and files to other telephone numbers and edresses.
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Another aspect of the same or another system is for the purpose of telephonic communication. Cellular service at a given location (for example a convention center) may be less than ideal as well as being expensive. The temporary installation of “land lines” for voice or data (for example, in a trade show booth) is expensive, limited to fixed locations, and is often not accomplished—or not accomplished correctly—until some time after the actual need for it begins.
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An alternative is to employ a high-speed data connection or other telecom to a general location, at which point the service may be continued by wired or wireless means to one or more near or distant locations at which the service is adapted to “voice-over-internet” and from there to wired or, preferably, cordless telephones. The result is immediate high-quality communications at a fraction of the cost of either cellular or traditional installed wired service as well as data communications over wireless local links to the high-speed connection.
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In a vending model the cordless phones can be dispensed against a deposit assuring their return or compensating the owner for loss of the phone.
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In one version, the cordless phones can be provided with electronic timers and/or “locks”. Each phone might be stored (and recharged) in a compartment of a vending machine. The vending machine could uniquely identify the phone (for example. by serial number). Upon “signing up” for a phone and establishing a deposit on the instrument and service, the user would remove one phone from the vending machine. By a local or the wireless connection, the vending machine would “enable” the phone for service. After a defined period; on exceeding the established “credit line”, or for other cause, the system would disable the instrument not only by denying access through the network, but by disabling the instrument itself. Upon returning the phone to a charging station in the same (or, in principle, any other) vending machine, and upon the vending machine interrogating the phone for both its serial number and its condition, the phone would be marked “returned” and the user's transaction closed.
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The use of “locks” and “timers” has other applications. For example, large events may require the rental and distribution of dozens or hundreds of walkie-talkies that are used in coordinating the event. Attempting to track the issue and return of radios by identifying to whom they have been issued and whether they are returned either relies on an “honor system of “sign-out sheets”, or assigning specific staff to check radios in and out. Alternatively, radios could be supplied “locked”. With a connection (for example, via an existing programming port) to the radio, an individual would be required to provide “identification” if not a deposit by the swipe of a credit card, drivers license, or identification card. This would electronically and unambiguously associate the specific radio with that individual. The radio would be scanned on return. Where setting time limits on the use of the radio is desired to allow reassigning the radio or prevent theft, the radio can be programmed with a “count-down” that disables it or limits its operation after a defined period. A shut-down command can be sent at any time to specified radios or all radios on a frequency. Similarly, with the correlation between a radio and a specific person, while the radio connected in a programming mode, each radio can be updated with specific frequencies, modes, and limitations.
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In these, as in all other cases, variations and other embodiments are possible within the scope of the inventions, which should not be understood as limited except by the claims.
