CA2244786C - Roll-up curtain bar attachment device for flexible sheeting - Google Patents

Abstract

An improved two-piece, gripping bar device for securing and selective roll-up of flexible sheeting useful in screening, outdoor rigid structures, like greenhouses The identical rod-like pieces present a shape having an elongate cylindrical form upon conjoining which device grips a length of sheeting. The pieces permit firm mating by virtue of a mating ridge on the contacting surface of each member which compliments an opposing mating recess on the opposite surface of the other member, so that each member presents a pair of parallel, linear ridges and linear recesses. Central of the arcuate or somewhat squared outer surface of the device is at least one elongate channel adapted to receive and recess the fastener heads and/or retain a second or third sheet of flexible material and thus be rolled-up with the inner sheeting to selected vertical heights.

Description

~ can RQLL-UP CURT~N B~R ATT~ DE~CE FOR FLEXIBLE S~EETING
F~ELD QF THE ~EN~ON
l~he field ofthe im~ t;~n ue sheet ~411~ means as it relates to claml~ing of fle~dble ~~t.,.i~ls, like films ~nd textile fabrics to ~n elaqg~ted bar in a manner that aUQws the flexi~le 5 ~te.i~l to roll up on the b~ and uound itsel~.
BACKGRQUND QF THE ~ENTlqN
Most Illod~ gre~k!us~ utilize adjac~t dual polymeric material sheets to co~7er the structural ~ s ofthe l,~ ? which are tben inllated thh~l~.~ to provide an insulati~e and highly translucent roofing and sidewa~ coYeriny The sudight passing through 0 the co~eri~s heats the structure so blt.,~ly during wumer periods~ that sufficient t~n ofthe structure be~ s difficult to mailltain, even with multiple high speed exhaust fans which require large qu~ties of e7~i~e electrical power The trend today is to~s ope~ as much ofthe ~lil.li.~g side w~lls, end walls~ and e~en the rw~area, as possible, to lessen or ~; " ~,n1e tbe need to lun electric e~t fans and to rely more on 5 natural ~ .lioo The flexible ~aterial ~fabric) is r t~ ~1 at the top to a structur~ her of a ~il~g in a fashion that aU~ws the fabric to dr pe e~enly downward along its entire length Roll-up waUs are bein~ used to pro~ide natuta~ ventilation, but most m.7thocls of anachment have beeQ to splice pipes touether by lh.~d~, ri~etin~ s.. ~ g or bolting, and 2~ to tape, clip, and~or clamp the CO~GI~ to the assembled bar. In order to in~late the spaGe between the two layers durin~ oold ~lh~r when the cover is in its closed po!-h;on, the covering must be wrapped a couple times around the roll bar and clamped in a fashion to the side ofthe buildin~ to prevent unwh din8 and loss of air inflation.

2~ Modern r,.. ~ pI ~i~c are also ~It~ ~ sheltets, barns, or speaa~ lin~ to house alttle~ swine, poultIy, etc in more c~llt~ n~ ments to nu~n~ize production.
Natural ~ t;f)r~ dU~g wann periods is prei;etred for large ar~nal shelters such as ~tle.
The sidos and much of the ends ~e o~en opened completely to allow n~ r ~ air circ~11s~i~n through the sh¢lters. A1thol~gh swine and cl~cken houses ate usually more ~ CA 02244786 1998-08-11 2 ~1-2~n co"1Ai~ with a ~eater lelidl~ on exhaust f ns, larger curtain vents are being gradually imrl~lnted to allow greater intake of air.
Most ar~mal shelters are p~ tly usin~ drop-down curtains, because roll-up curtains in the past have not had reliable clasping abilities, nor easy to maintain and ha~e becn s cu~ ~nlc to instsll. Drop curtains, hN~ cr, are subject to rodent d~unage in the pleats and folds that oc~ur as the curtain is lowercd ~d oRen collect much debris and water in the folds ofthe curtain in their open tl~pped posi1ion. They also require c~ ul pulley and cable S~,St~llS to raise the long le~ths.
Most cxisting roll-up bars~ which are joined by butting thc ends ofthe pipes2 orIQ structurd t.~ h~,~, to ~her,, rely on splicing ofthe bars with intern~ or externs~ splices and require ri~ets, bolts or screws throu~h thc splice pohts. This focuses the weakest point of the bar at each spUce joint. External splices andlor fi~bric holding clips will ~use an uneve~ess ofthe wrap of fabric ~he~ around the roll-up bar. Also, if a section ofthe roll-up is damaged~ and must be ~rl~~~ unless the splices are exte~l splices, the ~ric 15 attached alon~ the entire length ofthe outside oft~e bar will preYent " ~ en~er~t ofthe damaged section~ u1~1ess the fabric is ~;~q~ bled from the bar7 be~in~ with the dama~ed section and C~tlt~ ~ to one ofthe ends ofthe bar If a special groove is mdded into the 1Qng~tU~ length ofthe att~c1 m~nt for inseltion of another extrusion~ etc., the roll-up bar and its ~;ppil~~ melaber must be utilized with a i~bric~ or fabdcs, h~ing thiel Ih.- ~ses that are si~d specifically for the op~ ~ If it is too thtn, the fabriG will pop out; and, if it is too thic~7 the m ting ".- ~be s and fi~ric cannot be seated into the groove.
It is lh~ a ~ ' ob~ect ofthe inYentton to provide a eh~ t~l sheet ~ipp;ng device that concurrently permits the flexible sbeedng to roll up upon the de~Fice itself.
2s It is another o~ject ofthe in~ention to provide a devtce compri~ung a readily fabr~cated, two-member ~i~p~B bar means tht p ~ls a n~ ially ~;~h~ical c~l~ -' surface n~l te~ for ~ n~ rQD~p.
A yet funher object ofthe in~ltion is to fabricate a sin~e elongate .. rl~l~J~
providing same with a planar surface which is G~ P1 of a second ~Jo~t~ her~

c~n which members eng~e ~hP~lin~ eb~h~ in a firn~ but intenuptible ma~ ~ilhoul tearing or n~Ting such sl~~e~ durin~ the course of repeated sidewall reposifioningc A still filrthes object of tbe imentiQQ is to ob~iate the need for spliciQg pieces in ded length de~ices by o~erlapping of mateable l~hC, atlowing mu~h of the QO
5 stability of each 9CS~ y to ocaJr at each lap ioint oftwo ~ ..~. s.
Another o~iect of the in~eQtion is to allow firm ~ripping of one sheet of ~exible ~ric, or two or mo~e sbeets of ~exible fabric, and allow glipping oftotal fabric(s~ widths ~om ~ y thin rnaterial to total thicl~: K 9~5 that c~ still be flexible enough to wrap around the propo.liol~e siie of roll up bar diameter.
IQ SUMM~RY OF TH~ ~Vh.. . IQN
The present in~ tion is to provide an improved tw~piece7 ~.~,~ing device that will clasp one fabric sheet~ or multiple fabric sheets~ with a broader r~nge a~total thic~ ~P.e.eP,5 than what is readily a~ailable now. This .~ lion can be ~te~\ded to oonsiderably long lP~ths by an o~rerlapping ofthe ~ ut in a ma~er that eliminates inte~al or ~,~t~
lS splice pieces. The r~ ng cross section ofthe du~l mated ..- ...h~" ~ will present a g~ lly rounded shape or cylinder~ withlQut radially protrud~g splice2, cbmps or screws, that would tend to cause the fabric being rolled arount the bar to wind ~..,l,c,nly, or to tear. The fabric, a. it passes ~t~.~n the two mernbers, will ch nge dir~1ion se~reral times, which will Pnh~c the gripping ability ofthe roll~up bar, as compared to relyin~ on a s~ ~ action 20 only. When the two l~f.~a :j are identical to permit mating, a tapered ridge on each .~ 9r extends into a corre~ndh~ tapered recess on the opposing l~.v.llk~. The members a~e self-.ql~in~ as they are ~ ~ to both sides ofthe ile~ible fabric, but th~ey ca~t be mated together ba~ar~s.
The present imrentiQn is f~r an impro~ed de~ice~ wL~in each ~ ..be.~ may be 2s formed through a si~gle ~ on die (for ~ pol~ a.ic mater~s, sucb as P~C
plastic~ etc.~, or may be formed by a single rol~ng Ql molding form ~for steel, or Qther u~e~ s that are not shapeable by extruding). A ~ ~risi~licated to have at least one uclinsl ridge or protrusion along its pl~n~r mating surface, wbich is preferably tapered for easy mating into at least one lt>~dinal tapered recess, or indentation, on the mating 4 I~ can ..,c~kel. Each ,..~ ~. forms a semi-~;yL~der that" when mated with its ~PP~~I8 like l.. k.,r~ will folm a ~enerally cylindri~al de~ioe adapted for rolling a flexible material around it. The two mating m~ s areioined t~ by self-tal~ping screws that ~o through on one member channel then thr~ugh the fabric, and self-tap into the oppo~ ~ channel ofthe 5 other ..~ thereby ~i~pi~g both sides ofthe fabric (or by through bolt$ when so des;ired~.
The linear ridge of each member will push the fabric into the linear recess of the other mating ~ her. Tbe taper ofthe ~dges, and matching and ~~ ~g taper ofthe f~ÇC~5, Will cause the two 1. ~"~3~ to ali~n lh~J~ es with each other, as the two 0 n~en~ 5 are co.~ ssed by hand against the two sides ofthe fabric2 before the self-tappin~
screws are i~ ted for opc~dtion.
Pr~enbb2 each ~ A,r c~aM~el is p~ d at suitable i~rter~als to plovid& for easy insertion of a self-tapping s,crew through the one l~ ber, which may self drill and tap itself into the undlilled portion ofthe opposite extmsion2 at a point dpp~O~ elyhdfway 5 b~l.. ~1~ the opposing self-tapping screws. In this way, for example~ if suitable ~,.ippil~
action is ~ ~ from placing a ~l~tnriry~ fi~t~ e~ery l2", then predril~Dg the 1~ ,r eYery 24" and also lapping the members so that opposing fasten~s fall ~ .~n each other~
the in-iir~ted 12~ fP~.enin~ interYals will be ob1~' -ed Each 1.~c"i~, ~ on the outside cur~ed portion ofthe gen~ly hal~circle shape is provided with a recessed chanoel2 to accept the heads ofthe fastening screws, s,o that they do not protrude above the c~flindrical surface.
The device toes not req~re internal or ~t~ ~' splice$ but can instcad be ~ tle~
to quite long lengths by cutting one ofthe two star*ng .. ~ applu~ately in half. By mating the standard len~th ,.- ~ with one ofthe half-length .~ , i2 in a tnanner that also alt~tes the r~t~ 2 the toll-up ba~ can be ~ f ~ by lapping full lenglh members 25 alternately until the desired length is achie~ed, matill the other half-length extrusion at the ~ee end2 and then ~ ' ' ~ the completed roll up bar to finiQ~ed length.
The u~ nliol~ allows for ~ larger ~uialion of total thickness of fabric, or fabrics2 to be cl~nped between the two 1l e h~ ~, than poss~b~e with ~ , roll up bar$ wbich haYe fa~ric il~s~ n sockets and their spe~ally sized ma~ng clips. The res~ting change of six 5 b~ c~
pbnar diN~ s th f1ibric(s~ make~ wheo c~a~l between t~e se~en madng s~es (Fig.
l)oI the p~ ,d ~din~t, crestes a positive ~ ction aloDg the c~ sur~ce a~le~ ~d for tbe eot~e hng~ ofthe roU-up bar, aLo~ fo~ inflation ~h. e~n fàbric la~ers abo~e the bat ~f~n ~r l~ss thrQugh the ~ ~ s~ces.
Fi8. 1 is a perspecti~e ~new of a pair of elongate members ru~ the ,~(,;ppi,~
means for flauble s~ ofthe present invention;
Fig. 2 is a lilce p~ e ~iew of an ailte~ate e ~h~,~ for a p~ur of ,. .~he~
f~l~ the gripping ~s of ~e in~ention;
Fig. 3 is a lilce pel ~cl;~e view of a second alternate ~,..~bod;~l for a pair of lo l~r"E~ fOIII ~ the ~ pi~ means oftlle present inYe~iol~, Fig. 4 depicts the elongate ..~e .-h " ~ of Fig. 1 about to be coil;cine~l to ~close and to grip f~mly, the i~ed sheets of ~exible material;
Fig. 5 depicts tbe ,.~ of Fi 4 wben they are con~oirEed in gripping relation to the sheet material and ~ )ed u~ that mode by an elongate 1~ ; ~ means;
Fig. 6 is an alternate embodiment for the l.~.. h., s of Fig. I, but with the outer linear channel cross s~1ion modified to provide a squ~ed innet edge;
Fig. 7 is an de~ational end view of an ~tterr~te f -,~ r~t ofthe dcviae~ but with an outer linear channel tapered inwa~dly to accept t~ed bead ~~s, Fig. 8 is an cl~ al VIGW ofthe de~ce of Fig. 7 with the co~nting ~f~
2Q mated will~l its sheet Ill&t~ ' inte~
Fig. ~ is a pcIv~ti~e view of several f~nite .. ~, ..~ - ~ of tbe prosent i~ one of wbich is ovc.l~l p~l and mated, to provide linear sta~ility to an dong~te section of ~ippin~
means w~le in use upon a flexible sidewall; and Fig. lû is a p~ e view of a pole~barn structure using flexiUe ~e~ sidewalls~
2s and employing the ~ i~ht~d ~;~ing bars with roll-up features ofthe prcsent i~ _Aioll to c~ntlllat airflow through the par~aUy opened flexl~le sidewalls accordin~ to the present tiol~.
Fig. 11 is a p~ e view of a pau of elo~l~ate complemental members fo1ming the ~ipp~ means for fl~xible ~ being n altan~e ~ hc~ A o~e present i I~ ioll;

, Fi~. 12 is a ~ke p~ e ~iew ofthe abo~re ~Ite~ate embodime~nt but with modified contacting sur~es for the pair of eomplemental .. I~h~"~ ~IIIJJ~ a ~,;pp~
me~s for flexib,le ~G~
Fig 13 is a like pc,.s~ re ~iew of an alternate emboAimpnt of Fig. 11, but wim the 5 contac~ng surfaces of the complemental members pres .~ arcuate rid~es and Yalleys, Fig 14 depicts the elon~ate .. ~ t,~ s of Fi~ 11 about to be coQjc ~l to enclose and to filmly clasp two ~ led sheets of flexible material, Fig 15 depicts the elongate ,.. ~l~e.s of Fig,~ 14 while they are conioined in ~i~pi~
~Idlio~ lup and ~e ~ned in that mode by ao elongate transverse ~tener, along with a lo third clamped flexiWe sheet, Fig. 16 is an alte~ate embodiment of the elongate ~ 4, ~ of Fip. 11 ~end view~ but wherein the Quter ~ e lin~ channel has a cros~ ~tion n ~ifiP~ to providing squared inner etges and which also omits the opposinB arcu~te ledges ofthe ~din~t of Fi~. 11;
Fig. 17 depicts d)e elong~te .. .~ of Fig. 16, when they are c~ in ~i~ing 5 rel~tiol~,h;p with two sheets and are being retained by an elo~ale transverse r~ten~r means;
Fig. 18 is an alternate embodiment ~end view~ ofthe ... .~ of Fig. 16 ~ ~ the modified cros. ~,~n of each ofthe ~t~,lll21 Ihlear C~ Q pl~n~ a tri~
confi~uation with the ~noer apex being tmneated in order to utilize tapered head or bugle head tSpe ~t~
Fig 1~ depicts the mating l. ~,-..he. ~ of Fig 18 while they are oonioined in g~ ;pp;~
el~liQ~ship with two sheets and Wng let~net by an eloD~a;te r~
Fig 2Q depicts another e~kxl~.l P ~ end ~iew ~o~the in~ lion similar to that of Fig.
14 but ~.h~ there are plural ridges on the planar surface of one member and there are plural Yalleys on tbe planar surfice ofthe opposing complem~tal member, 2~ Fig 21 depictsanother&~ilp~ J~g de~ice~ ~thecol~ et ~
would present an essentially squared cross sec~i:>n~ and wi~ one form serving as eac~ side of the cQmplemental inner surfaces;

7 ~1-2c~n Fig. 22 is an elevation Yiew ofthe spaced-apaf~, opposing ",~ of Fi~ 21, but mo~lifird to depict an ~ e bowed cros~ ~tiOll~ k~ pir~ed along one oftbe centraltruncated rh~ thereof;
Fig. 23 depicts the s~une oo~ g members of Fi~. ~ but now w~h ~nother type s of bowed cross se~tion, ek~ ",~ affixed to one ofthe central tn~ed channels, and cla~ping a flexible ~
Fig. 24 is a p~s~ e ~iew of several finite .. ~ of Fig. 21 which are overlapped and adapted to be conjoined to pro~ride d~ability to ao flo ~e section of ~i~ph~g bar; and IQ Fig. 25 is a p~ e ~iew of a pair of n~or~hc. ~ like those of Fig. 17 except for ~llu~iOn of linear~ hollow internal chambers, depicting a do.lblc-flanged outer surfaoe Fig. 26 depicts an alternate ~ ~hod~t ~l ofthat depicted in Fig. 20 ~h~ the inner surfaces oftbe two members are like pairs of l~ear channels and ridges on eiither side ofthe center line oftbe one ..~ ,r a~d a complemental array of ~ce pairs of cl~aanels ~d ridges 15 on the i~ surfi~ce ofthe oppn ;~
Ref~,.li~ noul to the dl~. ~g, and to Fig. 1 in particular, the perspective view shows a pair of initially spsced-apan, elon~ate rigid members 2Q ant ~, each ple~-hi ~& a s~ally~ -f~-Jrc~ vertical Cr~L ~lion The ~or ~ross s~lior-l features are: ~generally planaî inner surfa~es 2011~ I, ~enerslly arcuate, outer surfaces 2Q O/22 O, Unear~
externally-located"~sed cl~els 20 C1~2 C, and linear internal hoUow c~ers 20 H~22 ~ of an irregular cross se~.~iol~ which cly)33s~ion is as defi~ed by the c~nfi~lration of surfaces 2Q I, 2Q O and 2Q C, in the depiction of l..e r~ 20. An elongate 1~ ~ ded bc~lt 24 is po i1;ol-~1 to k;>~ t~lly traverse the lin~ .. .~ Fia opposing bol~boles 2Q Bf22 B. Off~et fiom the p~e3~tcd IOD~ 1 end of oppo~ ..~ 2Q/22, is another borehob 2G, and a l~ce tL~;~ Pde~ bolt (not seen~, wlich will filrther fasten the ..~ 20J~2 to~th~ at a line~ Jpacing of ~h. ~1 12~ and 2~H Alten~tely, self-dtillin~ TEK screws, well known to the f~t~ art, may be e.~ ,d.
The inner surfaoe 20 l is p~o~ided with a projecting ~lon~.e linear ridge 3Q, preferably in the fonn of an ou1~ triangle, the ape7c ~0 A of which ridge is be~eled to 8 k~ c~n preclude projeetir~ sharp edges. Rid~e 3Q is disposed le~lll~ise of ~ xr inner surface 2Q I, and is ali~ed p~ ul~al to the upper line~ edBe 32 of su~ sur~ce 2Q I. It is thusly al~ned p~rallel to the lQngitudin~ on of inner surface 2Q I.
The lower segment 34 o~inner surfilce 20 I is ~Iso pro~ided with an inwudly s prc~ lineu chnnel 36~ also conveniently in the forrn of an isoscelçs triangle, which cbannel 36 will complement the op~ ~ ~ lower edge lidge 38 of facmg member 22. Cl~
36 is also ~I ~pose.d l~n~lh~;~ of ~-~ca~ 20, and is located p~ l.al to the lower linear edge 4Q of sur~ce 2Q I.
Ridge 3Q and channel 36 of ...~ ~ ~ are spaced apa~ equ~ thro~ t their o elongate length2 they e~ic-~1;9~11y straddle an in~isible 1~ ' center IjDÇ ~not seen) of inner surface 2Q I, n~ing through borehole 20 B.
O~ ag ~ her 22 is pro~ided on its lower inner surface 22 I, with el~ e linear ridge 38, and paralld channel 46, both Qfa substantially id~i~l, sur6ce co,.r~,~a~ion to those co~t~ ls of ~h ~ 1 20, except that dlaru~ 46 of ~r 22 oppos~ ~ ridge 30 of 5 ~ r 2Q, and ridge 38 of ~ -~,r 2~ op~ ~ chnnel 36 of ~ ~ 2Q. In fact, ll._.ld~
2Q and 2~ are fabricated so as to be Qne and the same pieces structuraUy~ va~ as shown here, only in their spatial ~xtapositions. If ~ ' ~J 2Q is rotated 180 on its longitudinal axis, in either ~lion, it will appear identical to ,.~-. ~ 22. Thus, aU of ~ ~lo5.~ d~
of ~e present invention are readily paired ~ripping bars of su~stantially id.
confi~uation~ when simharly r~t ted.
Qn ~ k~r 2Q, h~ L,~le~ arcuate surfàce 2Q O pr~ls linear cha~el 20 C, in which oentral ~ol~wles, such as 2Q B, aîe located. In the depicted ~ -.~; .lent, the ~r~ a~ sidewalls 48 U~48 L ha~e internally pr~,e~i~ ledges 5Q U~5Q L, wbich are spaced-apart, as to their leading edges~ so as to pe~it access to channel pla~ar surface 2Q C, ~5 ~rou~ which r~,c~ed f~: ~ ~ screws, like ~, are to be i~serted.
Lastly, there is an optional fi ah~e which m~ be in~ deYl to roduce member weight, and~or the cost of materials for the ~ her fal~rica~on. These are corllplemental elon~ate hoUow chambers 20 H~2 EI, d~ed by the inner wslls of the irregular inner sur&ce 2Q I~2 I, arcuate surface 20 0~22 0, aDt chamber 20 C/~ C. This inte~ral ~ lightening ~ CA 02244786 1998-08-11 ~ -2cRn fieature is ~ e by liquified metal exhusio~ me~1~ot1C well known in the an of fabricating li~ht n ~llic devices.
It will be e~ident that the op~ inner surfaces of .~ .her 2Q and ~, will dovetail y7 SO as to provide for complemental q~t, thereby ser~ing to enclose and grip 5 firmly any ~exible ~ matenal ~not seen) which is interposed th~ ,bet~n; also, to pro~ide dowllw~d ~ ;~hl; ~ OD the pelul~tCr ofthe sheeting u~t~ ~l~ nonma~y disposed 11~ ,~, so to achieve a downw~rd bias in the ~ w~ile suc~ is draped ~om a supporting rigid s~ucture In Fig 2, is pl~sellt~ a perspective ~iew of another e .~ t for the pair of cooperating ~ kb ~ i of the present invention, in wl~ich the co~ tu~ inner surfaces of 6Q and 62 sre SO~ h~t dil~ e.ltly cQnfi~-ed Thc cross se~,lion prea~.~t~ an inner ~lodi~;ad planar surfaces 6Q I and 62 I, ge~.d~ arcuate~ outer surfaces 6Q 0 and 62 O~
externally located lo~e3sed channel 60 C and 62 C; and internal hollow c~s 6Q H and 62 H The ~nfig ~ration of the arcuate outer sur~ces and of the channels of this device are 5 ~s~ t ~ lly identical with their cou~te.palts in Fig 12 however, the inner pl~ surfaces2 6Q I~621, are differently co.~g.~ad Member 60 is provided with a line~r rid~e 6~, havine a truncated ape~c 64 A2 which rid8e is locatet prQ~I to the upper linear edge 66 of ~ r 6Q It is also provided with a linear channel 68, ha~ing a truwated ape?c 68 A, which c~el is located pr~uu.al to the lower linear edge 7Q of ..r ~h~,r 6Q The parallel ridge 64 and the 20 channel 7Q are al4ed with the longer dimension of l. c"l~h~ 6 Q, so they essenthlly straddle an in~isible lo~tu~ al center line of inner surface 6Q I, passing through the depicted b<~rehole thereo~
Op~ ng .~ bDr 62 is pro~ided with a lin~r ridge 72, having ~-unc~ed apex 72 A, located pr~ l to the lower lincar edge 74 ofthe men~er It is ~thr provided with a 2S linear channel 76, h~ring a truncated apex 76 A~ locat~ proxin~l to the uppsr linear edge 78 of l~ J 62 As with the ridge and c~nel of ~ her 6Q, ridge ~ ~md cl~el 76 straddle an in~is~le center liDe of ir~er ~rface 62 I As with the ~ ~, s of Fig 1, the inner surfaces of .. ",.1~ 6Q/62 will d ,~c~l snu~ly, so as to provide for complemental 10 kkl-2con The opdonal feature of el~te hollow chambers, 6û H snd ~ ~ are also ~ e~
in Fig. 2. It is similarly defined by the just~ il~d inner walls of the irregular planar inner surface~ the arcuate outer surface~ and the l~,ccssed channel surface of each of ,.
6Q~62.
1~ Fig. 3 is pl~s~ a p~.spec~i~e view of u~QthcY f ~IIXY~ -d for the COOpe~
... }~ of the inv~ntion~ in whicl~ the CO~ ir~er Sll~Cf.~ of m~s 8Q and 82 are di lly c~nfig ~red. The cro~ sccliQ~I view depicts ~ ~ planar surfaces 8û I and 82 I; generally arcuate outer surfaoe~ 8Q Q and 82 Q; e~ternal ~1 ~ channels XQ C and 82 C7 and hollQw chambets 8Q H and 82 H. The c~n~ration ofthe arc,uate surfaces and J~ ssed IQ ~s are sl~bst~ially identical with their oountelp~t in Figs. 1/2; however, the opp~i~g inner surfaces are di~ltly configured. M~ ~ 8Q is pro~ided with a linear ridge, 84 Qfa semi~ylind~ c~ atiQn 84 C~ which ridge 84 is l~ated proximal to upp~ linear edge86 of ~ .hf r 8Q. It is also pl~id~d witb a li~ cb~nnel 887 also of a semi~fl;~ical confi~lration 88 C7 IQcated p~ al to lower linear edge ~Q of ..~ 8Q. The paraUel5 ridge 84 and cl~ 88 are aligned with the longer dh~ n of ~ ~ 8û and also 5 - "-lly aligned to straddle an invisible lo~ center line of in~er surface 8û I.
...I~,r 82 is Fo~ided with hs linear ridge ~27 ha~ing a semi~yL;l~ic~l cn~r~ v~lion 92 C7 IQCated prOXhJI~ to the lower l~ear edge 94 of ~ -. h r 82. It is also provided with a linear cbannel ~6, having a semi-cy~ndrical o~nfii~p~ratiQn 96 C, located 20 prQ~mal to the upper linear ed8e ~8 of l~f...~lw r 8~. As with the ridges and channels of b~;J 8û2 ridge ~ and channel ~6 eR~-~ ly straddle an in~isible c~ter ~ne of inner surface 82 I. Also with the paired ..,.,,-~ , s of Figs. 1/27 the de~ilil,cd inner arcuate surfàces will do~rdail snu~ly so as to pro~nde complemental ~
The optiQnal features of dongate bollow chmb~s, 8~ H~82 H7 are also depi~ in 2s Fig. 37 snd they are likewise defilled by the dellcn~ed inner walls ofthc irre~lar planar mner surface, the arcuate Quter ~ e, and the e.~t~ -1 channel surface of each of ..-e-t~
8ûf82.
R~l~g now to Figs. 4/57 two steps in the seqvence of employing a de~ice of Fig. 1 are depicted. M~ 20~22 ~e AliEr~, initi~lly spaced apart, just _-s depicted in Fig. 17 but 1 1 k*l-~can nQw with a dou~le ply of flexible she~,(;.~g l~Q A~ h,uoscd thereb~ . The gli~
device itsel~is located p~ ~l to the lower dep~ ed8e l OQ L Qf such rt~ ~ which sheeting usually e~tends vertically upward to o~erlap a frameworlc, such as a ~ hollse (not seen here~. Wben the pieces are suitably ~'i~ the facing ",~ ate dovetailedtogeth¢r, p~ the g.ipph~ bar posture of Fig. 5. Fastener 24 traverses the precut bo ~ h~les ~Q B~22 B (see Fig. 41 and extends at least paxtiaUy tluou~ the planar wall 22 I of ~ w~lhe~ p? ~ed ~~srt in the same paired ~ l~s~ is other tr~s~se ~t~ not seen) which will serve to lQCk the l~r~t~ nsl ends of ....""l~ 20f~ in the OpC.d[ihg mode7 as depicted.
In certain situations, an q~d~ }n~ he~ g or material ~lOO C in Fig. 4~ is desired to be teJ~ ily added to the stru¢ture and to be retained by the device ofthe invention.
When trs-n~h~cçnt ~cleat) layers of ~e~ ~ are utilized to c~ver the sides or roQf of a roe--h-)~J~, or cattk enç~ res,. such layers ~llow the sunlight to penetrate and heat the structure on warm, sunny days~ to a degree th~t is undesirabb for the plants Qr animals 5 bcated within.
An added s~ g feature aUows for the temporary attachment of an outer shade male~ or opaque shf~ to the structure c~ered by the de~ice of h~ t;ou, without disassemUy of the completed g~ ~Pl}il~8 device ~om the inner clasped sheet~s~. The ?d~iti~
sheel;~ can then be longitudin lly rolled up with the original clasped ~eet~s). When cooler 20 seasons pre~ail, the mAt~i~~ can be removed from its secured ~g~ent with outer channel 22 C ~Fig. 4), without disturbing the gripping effect on the original sheets.
AISQ depicted in Figs. 4/S is an added el~ lQladllpted tQ dasp another flexiUe sl~l;~ lat~ial 10Q C7 to the outside Qfthetoll-Up device fl~ ts 2Q and 22; such is employed as a t~l4X~ shade which can be attached to the c~ i~d de~ices 2Q and ~.2s Flexible ~ lOQ C can be lsid o~er tbe outside ar~uate surfaGe 22 O and then manu~lly stuffed into the l~ c~a~el ~ C.
Flexible wire spring de~ice 107iS a con~t~ le ~ and forms no part oftbe in~ention. It can be utilized with this embodinQent to add to the ~ersatility Qfthe in~ention.
Flexible wire spring lO1 i5Llse.~ behind tbe internally preJe ~ed ledges Sl U~5l L ~over 12 k~ can the inlaid ~he~,t;,~), with an uppe¢ linear p~rtion lQ4 U of the wire sp~ing 101 ~eing h~ ted behind the upward L~ y projected ledge 51 U, and then pu~hi~ the added flexible ~hG~ lQ0 C against the upper internal sid~.~.oll lQS U.
The lower lineax portions lQ2 L1106 L Qf the wire spr~ng ] Ql are alternately u~ led 5 ~ehind the lower internally p~ t~ ~ . ledge 51 L, thus pushing the added flexl~le sheeting lQQ C against the lower intemal sid~ 105 L. This continue~ thro~gh-~ut the wire l~h~ Ien~th lQ6 L down, then length 108 U is up I o -ling to Fig. 5, the se~reral ch~ges of direction which the ~exible .ChF~t;i~ l QQ C
takes, as it folds atound the low~ internal pro~ecting ledge 51 L, bel~nd the lower linear 0 portions like 102 L1106 L (Fig. 4~ ofthe wire spring 101, against the lower sidewaU 105 L, along and against tbe bottQm surface ofthe ~ s~ channel 22 C, against the upper internal sidewaU lOS U~ belind the upper linear po~ s ofthe wire spring lQ~ UflO8 U, and around the upper il~t~ y pr~Ec~ing ledge 51 U, will clasp the added flexl~le ~ ~ securely to the clasped roll-up tevice 2Q122.
IS As the clasped roll-up device 20~22 is rotat~ and is rolled up or down about its elongated axis, it will also roll the added flexible sh¢etir~ lOQ C aga~nst the outer planar surfiaces 22 0/20 O, concurrently with the rol~ng ofthe internally claspetl flexible ~h~t"~g lOOA~lOOB.
With this feature the added flexible ~I,~t;l~ lQQ C can be s~ ~et to, or removed20 ~om~ the roll-up de~ftoe 20~27 ~.;LLou~ need for disassembly ofthe ro~-up deYioe 20~2 from its Ç~ 8 pO~itiQII around the ~ &y flexiblie ~h~t .~ IQQ A/100 B.
In Fig. 67 an ~ bly step identiç~l to that of Fig 4 is shown. Howe~.er, the s l Q2JlQ4 h fe been ~llodiCed slightly Whib the inner surfiaces 102 I/104 I~ and the hollow chambers 102 H~104 H~ are substantially id ~ ol to that of F1g. 4~ the outer arcuate 25 surfaces lQ2 0~104 0 have been modified as ~own to omit the inwardly pl~i~ ledges like 5Q U7 of Figs 1 and 4. Ratber, depicted ledges 1 Q2 Lf 1 Q4 L are squared~ thus defining .,t~ Dr~ elongate l~essed ch~s lQ2 CllQ4 C in ."~ lQ~flO4, fes~ ely.
Ope~uLIy, the int~posed fle~ble matenal lQQ AIB is then gripped and ~.~d down inthe same ma~er ~s shown in Fig 5.

13 k~f-~can In Fig. ~8 are pl e~lted an lon~tuelinal end ~iew of yet another embodiment for the complenental gripping ..~ h ~ ofthe present in~-tio~ ~h~rsllO and 112 are seen well spaced aput in Fig 77 wbile ha~ing their inner surfaces 110 I/l 12 I with c~nfi~lfations which are id~1 to tbat of Figs. 17 4 and 6. However~ the arcuate outer surfaces and s recess~d cbannel surfaces oftbcse ".~ ~"~ are s~ ..t~ ly n~ ed. Arcu~te su~face 110 07 iS interrupted ody by the l~ it~ldino~ c~ 1 lQ C ~of a tl~mc~tedr tri~n~ cross-section)~ wbicb is centrally locxted in the semi-circular outer surface 110 0 of ~ ~l~r 110 Similarly7 outer arcuate sur~ce 112 0 is also i~t~ pted by a dia~ channel 112 C (likewise tnuncated, and tdangular~ loc~ted central ofthe semi~wla~ of ,.
IQ 112.
Elongate cbsr~els 110 C/l 12 C provide the running recess cbannel for the hls~,~ liol1 ofthe 1~ bolts 113 A, which will lock the seated ..~ together d;uring op~on.Also, the central inner surface 109 I~l~ R of eac~ r~her is provid~d witb &lle~ e, s~ ~rt transYerse boreholes, 110 Bf 11~ B, to receive ~t~ nil~ bolts. 1~ the view of 15 Fig. X, the ~ 1 lQ/l 1~ are dovetailed to show their complemental sea~ng, but without tbe il~t~~ition ofthe dual ply ~I.e~t; ~ of Fig 6. This ~,~boA;~ 1 c n be used most advantageou~ly on smaller di~ t~,. roll-up bars so that rcces~s for heads offa~te~.~, such as in Fig. 1 would not create large, ~at spots on sides of small diameter roll-up bars.
ln the p~ e view of Fig. ~, tbree elongate ..-e .~ , 120, 122, an~ 1~4 like20 those of Fig. 1, are ~l~ and aligned as tlley wa~ld be conjoined to provide an el~o~e ~ippi~g bar complised oftbree or more ...~ ing to grip, weight down, and a fiame co~efh~ ?~ having a greatet ho~ nldl dimension than that ofthe indi~fidual .~ e.~J~~ ls~l~es Note that the f ~e~v ~8 bolts are arra~ged in altemate manner ~one facing leRward, the next facing rightw~rd~ tbe next Pacing leftward~ etc.~ as they 2s would be affixed as d~,p~ in Fig. 1.
In the p~e~ e view of Fig. ~, tbç modified planar surface 12Q I of .. o-~ 12Q isc~,~L.Kd with a compltJ~ f~lly IllodiGed surface 122 I of .-. .~ 4. Three ~to,-~screws, 126 AIBfC, arç aUgned but -r a~e ~ ~t, as they are about to bç il~tçd into the ~-e.~ to retain thç o~erlap ~ 120/125together. Similarly, the ,.. ~ ex~osed 14 ~I-~can planar sur~ace 120 I would be co~u~ with the spaced-apart~ exposed sur~ace 1~ I of memhe~ 122,. with both ofthese to be held tog~hP,r by f~ screws 12Q A~B/C and opposing screws 1~ A~B. In op~iol~A the .~ ~nYA as shown are ass~nbled to grip and weight down fle?dbb ~ not seen~.
The perspective ~Fiew of Fig. lQ depicts ~h~ ;~lly a three-fli~ cional structure130, known as a pole-~ usu~ large dimension fle~uble sbe~ g 132 as an adjustablesidewaU Ope,1~1118, to which the present in ~tion may be applied. The st~d~rd plOJeCt;l~
ends of roof t~usses 134 A-C~ are seen~ along with underlyin~ b~ ~l upper board 13~.
An e,~t~ ~dP~'~A vertical fle~ible sheeting 132 is draped ~om the upper r~te.~ n board 136.
Shsetir~ 132 is shown as partially rolled up. The e1O~ t~ gripping bars of the present h~e~tion are depicted sc~ lly as 138 A~B The cranking ..-~;çhA -:~.. 14Q shown at the el~fe end of de~ice 138 A~B is conventional, and forms no ~t of the present in~ention.
By way of example, typical .1i.~ . 'nnal s~G;I~c,tti~l~s for the exemplaly p~ir of r~"r~ke~s depicted in Fig 6 wiU now be provided for an e~ctrudedA hollow ,.,~ -..~,. Iike lQ2 ~5 thereof The overall diameter ~om upper linear edge 121 E to lower linear edge 123 E is 2.0nA the vertic,al height of rectangular ~uu~el 1Q2 C is 0.625nA the waU tbic~ness of i~er planar wall 1~ I is Q. 1875n; the lL-l~ness of arcua e wall 1Q~ O and of channel wall lQ2 C is Q.Q625"; while the thickness ofthe shaped portions of inner waU 10~ C is Q.û938n. For these ~i ~ion~ when section ~~e~ ~ is e~ruded ~om s~ num metal, the weight per linear foot of ~ lû2 L is Q. 5486 Ibs. For a 2Q ~t. Ieng,th of paired ...~ , the deYice pro~ides a dc,~ l bias on the inte~posed flexibb ~hecli~5 of about 2~ Ibs. for that length.
Qther .- . kcl waU ~ ;onsA and choiGe of rr steri~l~ of fi~rication, wiU proYide ~ilIden . per lineu foot of flexible sheeting The p~ e ~iew of Fig. 11 shows a pair of initiaUy spaced apart, elo~le rigid 2s .~ has 15Q and 152, each p~ i,~ a speci~lly c~nfi~lred vertiGal crQss section. The major c~oss section~l ~tul~S are: generally pbnar inner surfàces 150 I1152 IA genaally arcuate outer surfaoes 15Q 0/152 0; c~t~ lly-loGated linear reoessed channels~ 150 C~152 C; and elongate intemal hollow ~ 1 5Q H~l52 H; each of an irregulaJ cross sectiQn as defined by the dissimilar opposing plan~ surf~es l5Q lf152 I. An elongated Ih~ e~

IS kJ~1-2can l~en~ 153 is poait;~aned hol~6OIltally to tra~erse the elongate ~ D via Qppo~ing bore holes 1 SQ B{152 B. Qfflset ~om the p~ l ends o~ ..,.,~,.1~, D 1 5Q1152 is anQther bore hole~
154, whic~ w~th l~e tLre~ f~teners (not soen~ ~11 fasten the ab~ ng members 15Q1152 flrmly to~h~
s The inner plana~ su~ace 150 I is provided with a s~a~ apalt~ parallel pair of ritges 156 U and 156 L7 ~nth the ape?~ of each ridge, 158 and 16Q, te~ ely7 being be~reled tQ
preclude sharp edge~. Ridges 156 U/156 L are diD~ed lel~tl.~4i~ of r~ hel inner surface 15Q I7 and are aligned to essentia~y straddle the invisible central line ofthat planar surface.
The inner surface 152 I of opposing member 152 is provided with a ~ce~ t7 IQ parallel pair of linear chu nels7 16~f164, also both conv.~ ue~ y in the form of an i~ eles triaogle. Each cLannel is disposed le~lh~ise of...~--.be~ 152, and they are alig,ned to essentially straddle the in~isible center line oftbst planar surfàGe. The dispositioo ofthe paired ~ and ofthe ddges pro~rides for their co...l.h ~ engagement, thereby ser~ing to enclose and ~ip firmly any flexible ~ 8 material (as seen in Fig. 15) whidl is 5 to be L~ ,cscd ~h~ .~n.
In Fig 1~ is preseoted a p~ e Yiew of another embo~im~7nt for a pair of cooperating ...~ , 17Ql172, in which the c~lr~ g inner surfaces of ." ~ , s 17Q~172 are somewhat dil~ ~,.r~..,cd In their c~ss-sections, such inner surfaces, 17Q ~1172 I, are pro~rided with paired linear ridges 174fl76, havin~ ~ncat~l ape~es, 174 TJ176 T; and 20 the o~pnsi~ inner surface 172 I is pro~ided with paired line~r ch~rn~J~ 178/18Q, similarly ~m~te(l This stiU pro~ides for c~ l~l.~tal eng~gement, as each pair is ali~ned to essenti~lly ~ll ~dle the invisible center line of its planar surfilce. The ~ oJly arcuate outer surfaces, 170 Q and 172 O, of . ~."1~.~ l?Q/172, are eacb pro~ited with an e~l.ally l~t~1 r~essed cbannel, l~ C1172 C, I ely~ each channel haYing inwardly 2S prcJec~i~ ledges, such as 176U ~nd 176L. These arwate ledges a~e s~ , id~ti~l to t~ose ledges of Fig. 11. The o,~L;c ~' fèature of an elongate hollow chamber~ 17Q H/172 H, are also depicted in Fig. 12. Such outer ch nnels allow f~t~r heads (153~ to be rc~ssed from the outer arcuate surface of the ...~ 170fl72 16 k~/-2c~n In the embotiment of Fig. 13~ there is a p~ ive view of COOp~a~ B ~
18û/182, which are each pos~ of elongate ~t~ -' ehannels2 180 C/182 C, s~.x~ yidentical to those of Figs. 11/12. The cross sectional view shows the opposu~ planar surfaces, 18Q I/182 I are d;f~ 1y c~ red Member 18Q is provided with a pair of s spaced apart, paralld ridges2 184 and 186~ ha~ring a pr~;e~n~ arcuate c~nfi~ ralion rh.,ieal)2 w}ile offset metnber 182 is pro~ided with a pair of spaced ap~t2 parallel ~I~Al~nelS~ 188 and 18~, each haYing a complementd arcuate cnnfi~l~tion (also h.. ~ e ~-l). Both pairs are aligned to essedial~ straddle an invisl~b lon~ center line of each inner surfaoe, making for theu complf -,~ euagement. As in the other lo Figures, ~-red apart~ and centrally located baqe holes, like l~Q, are located to admit a î~t~l~er 153 B~ which locl~s ...~.~r 18û and 182 t~tl\~r.
In Fig. 14 is depicted thc device of Fig. 11, but with the co~ t~ ~
l5ûll 52 about to clamp il.t~Jcsed ~e~ble sheets 192 A and 192 B. A third adiacent sheet 1~4 is ~li~lted externally of Quter elon~ate channel 152 C~ and will be pressed therein 5 adia~ent to its linear edge7 to be l~t~td until manualJy r~lcased fi~m a flexible wire spring device 196~ which is a conYentioDal sheet l.,te~tion ~ 1 The steps fQr engaging de~qce 196 are ~ C~d aboYe in relation to the like devioc ~ te~l in Fig. 5W.
LoQking to Fig. 15, the change of ~c.~Stion which ~ ",.t;,~ 1~6 takes as itfolds about the inwardly p~ ;~ led~es 176 U and 176 L of outer channel 152 C, are ~o ~ ~ ted In this ~ r the transverse ~ 153 C and wire spring lg6 permit three sheets to be usefully clasped and r~ ~y the inventive device, in situations where that B a~ Acnt proves usefill.
The e~ t of Fig. 16 is a ll.~liL~ation ofthe earlier e~ ;r~ s of Figs.
11114~ in that only the outer channels 2~ C and 2Q2 C of complemental ",~ .s 2QQ/2Q2 are to be modified. This entails omitting thc outwardly pr~ , ledges, like 174 UIL1176 UIL of the ~ .t~ed~ t~bod;n~nts ~Fi~. 14~. Rather, inner led~es 2Q4 U and 2Q4 L are squared, and outer ed~es 206 U and 206 L, are angular, t~tus d~ wlA~lar recess cha~els 20Q C and 202 C, in ~ 2QQ and 2027 .~spc~ fely. O~ nally, tWQ

; CA 02244786 1998-08-11 17 ~ can h~l~ed flexible ~he~ 2Q8 A/ 2Q8 B~, are gripped and ~ ed town, in the manner as is depicted in Fig. 17, with conjoined l.-e.,.hel~ 2QQ~2Q2 The embodiment of Fig 18 is another .~ cation ofthat depictet in Figs 11 and 142 in that o~ly the outer channets 21Q C and 212 C, of~compl-m~ntAl .-- ..1~,~ 21Q and 212, 5 are ..-~;fie~ Such entails omitting the arcuatdy ~ e~i~ ledges of Figs. 1 lfl2/13. Also, outer chaanels 21Q C and 212 C are converted to the fo~m of an apex-truncated triangle, as seen in this vertical cross-section view. The planar elongate segments 214 and 216 provide the ~it;ons for bore boles 214 B~216 B that ~nit of standard ll~ î~t~l~. with tapered heads, like 153 E and 1S~ F This serves to secure mateable members 21Q and 212 about clasped flexi~e sheets 218 A and 218 B~ as is depided in Fig. 1~
The embodimeq~t of Fig. 2Q is similar to that of Fig. 16tl7~ as to o~erall cc~..f~"~tion, except for ~ r~Jon ofthe ~th~ planar inner surfaces, 220 ~22 I.
The oDe ~ -~r ~20 is provided with plural (tWQ RY*~ ;r~ ndges 224 A and 224 B, located pr~inJal upper linear ed~e ~6, and also with plural (two) ridges ~24 C and ~41:~, 15 located p~ al to the lower linear edge 228. The central planar segment 23Q admits ofthe llaL~ ~f~t~r237. Theothercomp' n~ ~2ispro~ledwithtWQ
triangular channels 234 AfB2 loc~lted pro~ -1 to upper lineu edge 236, and also two triangular channels 234 C~D, located proximal to the lower li~ear ed~e 238. Agun, its central planar se~nent 240 admits ofthe raste~ 237. This ~ le4ll is deemed par~cularly 2~ suitable for a gripping and ~ B devioe, l~lilU1~3 comparatively }~ diameters for the hold-down of heavier ~heetit~g In the Figs. 21-23 ~e ~ep ~ a c~nfigl)ratiQnally-distinct pair of roll up bars, comparable to the ~ s of Figs. 1-3, in that a sin~le c~nfi~lration, elongate ...~",.hf,.
ser~es as both halves ofthe çln ~ means. A p~r of ir~tially spaced-s,part, elo~ e ri~id 25 l~e-..k~, 250 and 252, with eacJ~ J~ oriented to present comple..~ ~t!~lly arranged vertical crQss sections, are d~e~ cte~ The features are: generally planar iM~er surf~ces, 25Q I
and 252 I, generally rectangular outer (~,~ yo~d) surfi~ces 250 O and 252 O, d~,fi~ & a gen~ally rectangular cross section for each m~mber; and square like, cross sectiQn for the ..l~,.,.h~ ~ when co~oined. Inner surface 25Q I is provided with a proieGting el~ e Iine~

~ 18 kk~ ~Can ridge 254, p.~ably in the fiorm of an ~ ?~ i~lc, the apex 256 of w~ch is mildly be~eled, to preclude sharp edges. Rid~e 254 is ~ d len~thwise of inner surface 25Q I
and is li~ed prox~nal and pardlel to upper l~n~ear edge 260 of surface.
The lowel planar ~B~-t-d of inner surfa~e 25Q I is pro~r~ded ~th a seco,nd pr~
5 linear ridge 262, ~l;~ is an inwardly Pl~J~Ct;~ lioear chu~el 2642 ah~2o in the fQrm of an eq~ o~G~al trian~le7 which is ~htly rounded to complement the QppQsing apexed ridge of "~.h 252. Channel 264 is ~i4posed l~thl. ~ of inner surfàce 250 1 and located plto the lower linear edge 268 of the inner sur~ace. A~ ddge 254 and chnnel 264, both of .n-h~, 25Q. are spaced-apart2 eq~ .1 thno~gh~u~t their length, they also essentially ~o straddle an invisible lon~tl~di--l center line (nDt seen~ for purpose to be ~çfin9tl Lower ddge 262 rests witbin this gap, as is shown.
O~)l)oslng member 2$~ is constlucted i~ o~ly to .. e".l~ 25Q, but it is merely rotated 18Q, so th~t its lower linear ridge 27Q and upper linear ridge 272 are ol;e~led to m..~e~k'y engage opposdng lower channel 254 and adjacent ridge 262 of member 250, IS res"e~.~rely. Channel 274 is the ~rror image of chnnel 264 of member 250. The ~l~l 1 surfaces of each ~ kr 25Q/252 d~lil,c a substantially r~lified ~ ~ Central of each ofthem are an outer recess chanQels 25Q Cf25~ C, le~clh,~,ly, which in this case, are cnnfi~lred like tho~ of Fig. 16, (lc,.,1 ~y~ in crc~s ~ction) serving like fi~ u as descli1~d for e~lie~ ~n~odill~cnts. AISQ, each ~ k,., such as 25Q12S2, has tran~ted co~, which ~lo.;de slanted planar elongate se~ments, lilce 252 S ant 252 T, ~ ely.
g ..~ 52 also bas slanted segments, 252 S and 2$2 T. As with other e~lb ~'m~tlt~, the unit weights of each ~ ~3~ can be reduced by in~ cn of the depicted, irregularly- cr~nfi~red PJ~ ts hollow chan~ers ~S0 H ant 252 H.
In the end ele~ation ~iew of Fig. 22, tbe oppo~ ..~".hc, s 250~$2 ha~e been 2s modifiod to proYide a cenhal bore hole 276 in . .~ ~ 250, to which is pinned intenupti~ly, a bowed elongate bracket 280 by f~t~e~ 278. Bracket 280 permits the an~l~ of a flexi~le first sbeet ~2U~ to one ~ 5Q), and al1QWS ~r the int~Jit;ol~ of a se;and sheet ~285~ to be chsped by the o~ nd~es and cb~els ~254~64A~270J~ ofthe L~ te~ble ll~

' ~

19 k~ ca~7 ln the other end elevational ~iew of Fig~ 23, the ..-e.,~ , 25Q/~52~ ha~re a di~l cnnff~vation~ elon~ate bracket 282 ~t~t ll~e~l~ , which i~ also secured to .er ~SQ ~y î~er 278. Bracket 282 is ~.r~ ~ to s~d~fich neatly k~,h..,~ the opposu~ inner surfi~es, 25Q If ~52 I. In this view~ a first ~exible sheet 284 is ult~S~ and s a~cholod ~l~,ell member 25Q and retaming ~rackct 2827 and a second sheet 285 is positioned to be clasped~ as well.
In the p~ s~cli~re view of Fig. ~, a section of the inner planar surface 25Q I of mem1~ 25Q is shown already conjoined with the unseen Gomplemental planar surfilce of n er~h~ 282 B. Likewise, the unseen inner pl~ar surface of ~ her 2~4 is shown already 1(~ C01~,4;'Y;d with a secti~n ofthe plansr surface 282 I of ..,~"..k~ 272 B~.
Another t~: ted Ir.~ r ~82 A is shown ab~t to be con)oined to an open section ofthe inner planar surtàce 250 I of ~e-~her 25Q. A plurality of f~-t~ , such as 278 A, 278 B~ and 278 C, are r~ spacet apart~ as they will be i~ted through the one ~ - 2X2A to retain the o~Ferlapping members 25Q and 282 A, to~etber with a ~heet of flexible fabric 5 (not shown~ clasped ~
Another ~e~ictçd ". -~ 252 is also shown about to be conjoined to an open section ofthe planar surface 282 I of l~ 282 Af282 B A pluralhy offL,t~, such as 153 H nd 153 1, are ~ spaced apart, as they wiU be i~-ted throu~ the one member 252, to retain the o~e~l~pinB Jr .-.~r 252 to the i~ s 282 A1~82 B, together with another sheet of fle~uble fabric (nQt shown) cla~;ped th~.eb~,t~ ewise, the plurality of 153 Jll53 K~153 IJ153 M are shown aligDed, spaced apart, as they will be h~ t~
through .~ ,r 25Q, then through the one layer of flexible li~bric ~not shown~ then through "~ 282 A~282 B, then through the second la~er offa~ric (not shown), then into ",~ , 252J~4 2~ In Fig. 25* the p~pe~tive ~iew is that of a paired set of elongate .. ~ 3QQ/302 much like that of Fi~. l? exee~t for its line~ int~l l~llow c~ambers. Instead of a discrete rlol~ rl~ h~ 2o H~2QI of Fig. 1 within each l~ her, the exte~ally-located l~sses are C~ i~d ofa$plithe.~ "icalçlu-.~r3QQ CnQ2 C.Tbe chamber on ~ 30Q
has div~ging ilanges 3Q4 OlI,~ fi.-;~ its line~r edges, with 3~ced a~t, diverging flange ~ 2~ 2can 306 O~I OppC~ g the f~rst flange pa~, thus ~1~.~;..~ a ~~ cally-configl)red outer channel 30Q C. The planar base seL5, ~e-~l 3Q8 still prQ~des the support pl~rol~ for flexible .che~
as seen in Figs. Sf6. Quter cha~el 3Q2 C on member 3~ is likewise de~ined ~r oppos~
pairs of flanges 31Q Q~l and 312 Qll, and plat~r base 314.
s The embodiment of Fig. 26 is a ~od;r.~ ;on ofthat depicted in Fig 2Q, relating primarily to the oppGs~g inner pl~ surfaces, and wl~ch ~ l~r cross ~;n~ ill pennit one configuratiQn to senfe as both sides ofthe glippi~ means~ generally 318. The one ~ 32Q is provided with a p~ur of parallel linear fi atures? one being a ~ ~ ridge 322 and adjacent cl~el 324, located prQ~I upper linear edge 326 of ~uj".h4, 32Q, and7 lo also with a second pair of parallel linear features, one being pl~ec~i~ ridge 328 and adi~nt channel 330? both located pr~ lower ~near edge 332 of ~.e ~~ 32Q. Both pairs are positioned eq~ ed along the longitudinal center line of ".~, ..h~ r 32Q.
The other ,.~ her 334 ~idr.~ie~l in cros~ s~lional eQnfi~ration despite rotation~ is pro~ided with a third pair of par~lel linear fèatures, one being Pr~J eC~ ridge 336 and 5 adjacent channel 338? Iocated pr~ l lowa linear edge 34Q of ~ ~r 334, and also with a fourtb ps~ of par~lel line~ ~tu~es? one being pl~;f c~ing rid~e 342 and adjacent channel 344? both loc~ed pro~l upper linear edge ~46 of.~ ha 334. Both pairs are posidoned e~ P~ ed along tht lo~ l center line. It will be apparent t~at the de3c.ibed pair~ are complemental in cot~figuradon and wiLl seat dghtly upon one another? clasping firmly any flexible .che~ not shown) which is ~ ~sed lh~b~l~een.

Claims (19)

1. A separable two member, gripping and weighting device each member having confronting, planar surfaces adapted for securely, but interruptibly, gripping any flexible sheeting material interposed therebetween, comprising:

(a) an elongate first member of a substantially rigid, material having at least one substantially planar surface presenting an rectangular generally elongate configuration serving as its contacting surface, and having a generally arcuate outer surface serving as a rolled sheeting support surface; further comprising:

(i) a first linear channel disposed lengthwise of the one planar surface and aligned parallel and proximal to one longer dimensional edge of the rectangular]
configuration; (ii) a second linear channel located lengthwise of the one planar surface spaced apart from the first linear channel, and aligned parallel and proximal to the other longer dimensional edge of the rectangular configuration with the two linear channels essentially straddling the longitudinal center line of the planar surface;

(iii) a third linear channel disposed lengthwise of the arcuate outer surface and similarly aligned substantially centrally along said outer surface;

(b) an elongate second member substantially identical in length, dimensions and cross-sectional configuration to the first member, also having opposing planar and arcuate surfaces like the first member, and spatially oriented to make a complemental mating with the cross-sectional features of said first member, further comprising:

(i) a first linear, raised ridge disposed lengthwise of the one planar surface, and aligned parallel and proximal to one longer dimensional edge of said rectangular configuration;

(ii) a second linear raised ridge disposed lengthwise of the same one planar surface spaced apart from the first linear channel and aligned parallel and proximal to the other longer dimensional edge of said rectangular configuration, with the two linear ridges essentially straddling the longitudinal center line of the one planar surface;
(c) for each finite length of the opposing and normally contacting planar surfaces of the paired first and second members, there is provided at least one transverse borehole connecting between the outside linear channel in the arcuate surface of the first member, and the second planar surface of the second member, such outside channel being sized to receive a fastener therebetween; and, (d) the spaced-apart, linear channels in the first member and the spaced- apart, linear ridges in the second member being oriented for complemental engagement throughout their longitudinal directions, serving to engage and grip firmly any flexible sheeting material interposed therebetween, so to provide a downward weighting in the sheeting while same is draped over a supporting rigid structure.

2. The device of Claim 1 wherein the first member has its inner channels and the second member has its inner linear ridges presenting a substantially isosceles triangular cross-section configuration, so that the peripheral surfaces of each paired channel meets with the peripheral surfaces of each paired ridge in an uninterrupted plane.

3. The device of Claim 1 wherein the first member is provided with a substantially semi-circular cross-sectional configuration for its channels and the second member is provided with a like cross-sectional configuration for its ridges so that the opposing peripheral surfaces thereof meet tangentially along the line lying in the planar inner surface of each member.

4. The device of Claim 2 wherein the triangular apex of each pair of channels is truncated and its opposing pair of ridges is flattened.

5. The device of Claim 1 wherein an elongate, linear chamber is provided internally and lengthwise of each member, while being sized to maintain the structural integrity of the both the channels and the raised ridges, located within the internal planar surfaces of such member.

6. The device of Claim 1 wherein the linear channel in the outer arcuate surface of a member has a substantially rectangular cross-section throughout its length.

7. The device of Claim 1 wherein the open edges of the outer linear channels present projecting flanges extending inwardly toward the center line of such channel but with their leading edges being spaced-apart for fastening means access.

8. A separable two member, gripping and weighting device each member havingconfronting, planar surfaces adapted for securely, but interruptibly, gripping any flexible sheeting material interposed therebetween, comprising:
(a) an elongate first member of a substantially rigid, material having at least one substantially planar surface presenting an rectangular generally elongate configuration serving as its contacting surface, and having a generally arcuate outer surface serving as a rolled sheeting support surface; further comprising:
(i) at least a fist pair of parallel linear channels disposed lengthwise of the one planar surface and aligned parallel and proximal to one longer dimensional edge of the rectangular configuration;
(ii) at least a second pair of parallel linear channels located lengthwise of the one planar surface spaced apart from the first linear channel, and aligned parallel and proximal to the other longer dimensional edge of the rectangular configuration, with each of the two pairs of channels essentially straddling the longitudinal center line of the planar surface;
(iii) a linear channel disposed lengthwise of the arcuate outer surface and similarly aligned substantially centrally along said outer surface;
(b) an elongate second member substantially identical in length and dimensions of the first member, also having opposing planar and arcuate surface like the first member, and spatially oriented to make a complemental mating with the cross-sectional features of said first member, further comprising:
(i) at least a first pair of linear, raised ridges disposed lengthwise of the one planar surface, and aligned parallel and proximal to one longer dimensional edge of said rectangular configuration;
(ii) at least a second pair of linear raised ridge disposed lengthwise of the same one planar surface spaced apart from the first pair of ridges and aligned parallel and proximal to the other longer dimensional edge of said rectangular configuration, with each of the two pairs of linear ridges essentially straddling the longitudinal center line of the one planar surface;

(c) for each finite length of the opposing and normally contacting planar surfaces of the paired first and second members there is provided at least one transverse borehole connecting between the outside linear channel in the arcuate surface of the first member, and the second planar surface of the second member, such channels being sized to receive a fastener therebetween; and, (d) the spaced-apart pairs of parallel channels in the first member and the spaced-apart pairs of linear ridges in the second member being oriented for complemental engagement throughout their longitudinal directions, serving to engage and grip firmly any flexible sheeting material interposed therebetween, so to provide a downward weighting in the sheeting while same is draped over a supporting rigid structure.

9. The device of Claim 8 wherein the first pair of parallel linear features of the one planar surface of the first member are an adjacent channel and ridge, the second pair of linear features of the first member are an adjacent channel and ridge, the third pair of linear features of the one planar surface of the second member are an adjacent channel and ridge, and the fourth pair of linear feature of the second member are an adjacent channel and ridges.

10. A separable two member, gripping device each member having confronting surfaces adapted for securely, but interruptibly, gripping any flexible sheeting material interposed therebetween, comprising:
(a) a first member of a generally rectangular vertical cross-section and of a substantially rigid, material having at least one substantially planar surface presenting rectangular, generally elongate configuration, serving as its contacting surface, and having a generally planar outer surface serving as a rolled sheeting support surface, further comprising:
(i) a first linear channel disposed lengthwise of one contacting planar surface and aligned parallel and proximal to one longer dimensional edge of the elongate configuration;
(ii) a first linear ridge disposed lengthwise of the one planar surface, aligned parallel and parallel to the other longer dimensional edge of said rectangular configuration;

(ii) a first linear ridge disposed lengthwise of the one planar surface, aligned parallel and proximal to the other longer dimensional edge of said rectangular configuration;
(iii) a second linear channel, disposed lengthwise of the one planar surface, also aligned parallel to the longer dimensional edge, said second channel essentially straddling the longitudinal center line of the one planar surface;
(iv) a linear channel lengthwise of the outer surface and similarly aligned, longitudinally, and substantially centrally along said outer surface;
(b) a second elongate member substantially identical in length, dimensions and cross-sectional configuration to the first member, also having opposing contacting and planar surfaces, and spatially oriented for dovetailing with the complemental cross-sectional features of said first member, further comprising:
(i) a first linear channel disposed lengthwise of the one contacting planar surface and aligned parallel and proximal to the one longer dimensional edge of the rectangular configuration;
(ii) a first linear ridge disposed lengthwise of the same one planar surface but spaced apart from the first linear channel and aligned parallel and proximal to the one longer dimensional edge of the rectangular configuration; and (iii) a linear channel disposed lengthwise of the one planar surface, alignedparallel to the longer dimensional edges of the elongate configuration, with the second channel essentially straddling the longitudinal center line of the one planar surface;

(c) for each finite length of the opposing and normally contacting planar surfaces of the paired first and second members, there is provided at least one transverse borehole connecting between the outside linear channel in the first outer surface and the first planar surface of the second member, outside channel being adapted to receive a fastener therebetween; and, (d) the spaced-apart, first channel and first ridge in the first member and the spaced-apart, first channel and first ridge in the second member, being oriented for complemental engagement throughout the longitudinal direction, serving to engage and grip firmly any flexible sheeting material interposed therebetween.

11. A separable two member, gripping and weighting device each member having confronting, planar surfaces adapted for securely, by interruptibly, gripping any flexible sheeting material interposed therebetween, comprising:
(a) a first member of a substantially rigid, material having at least one substantially planar surface presenting a generally rectangular elongate configuration serving as its contacting surface, and having a generally arcuate outer surface serving as a rolled sheeting support surface; further comprising:
(i) a linear channel disposed lengthwise of the one planar surface and aligned parallel and proximal to one longer dimensional edge of the rectangular configuration;
(ii) a linear, raised ridge disposed lengthwise of the same one planar surface, but aligned parallel and proximal to the other longitudinal dimension of said rectangular configuration, with the linear channel and ridge features essentially straddling the longitudinal center line of the planar surface;
(iii) a second linear channel disposed lengthwise of the arcuate outer surface and similarly aligned substantially centrally along said outer surface;
(b) a second elongate member substantially identical in length, dimensions and cross sectional configuration to the first member, also having opposing planar and arcuate surfaces like the first member, and spatially oriented to make a complemental mating with the cross-sectional features of said first member, further comprising:
(i) a linear channel located lengthwise of the one planar surface and aligned parallel and proximal to one longer dimensional edge of the rectangular configuration; and (ii) a second linear raised ridge disposed lengthwise of the same one planar surface but aligned parallel and proximal to the other longitudinal dimension of said rectangular configuration, with the linear channel and ridge features being essentially straddling the longitudinal center line of the planar surface;

(c) for each finite length of the opposing and normally contacting planar surfaces of the paired first and second members, there is provided at least one transverse borehole connecting between the outside linear channel in the first arcuate surface and the one planar surface of the second elongate member, such channel and such surface being adapted to receive a fastening bolt connecting therebetween; and, (d) the spaced-apart, linear channel and linear ridge in the first member and the spaced-apart, linear channel and linear ridge in the second member being oriented for complemental engagement throughout the longitudinal direction, serving to engage and grip firmly any flexible sheeting material disposed therebetween, so to provide a downward weighting in the sheeting while same is draped over a supporting rigid structure.

12. The device of Claim 11 wherein each member has its inner channel and its inner linear ridge presenting a substantially isosceles triangular cross-section configuration, so that the peripheral surfaces of each channel meets with the peripheral surfaces of each ridge in an uninterrupted plane.

13. The device of Claim 12 wherein the triangular apex of each channel is truncated and its opposing ridge is flattened.

14. The device of Claim 11 wherein each member is provided with a substantially semi-circular cross-sectional configuration and the peripheral surfaces thereof meet tangentially along the line lying in the planar inner surface of each member.

15. The device of Claim 11 wherein an elongate, linear chamber is provided internally and lengthwise of each member, while being sized to maintain the structural integrity of the both channels and raised ridge, located within the internal surfaces of such member.

16. The device of Claim 11 wherein the second linear channel in the arcuate outer surface has a substantially rectangular cross-section throughout its length.

17. The device of Claim 11 wherein the open edges of the outside linear channel of the first member present projecting flanges extending inwardly toward the center line of such channel but with their leading edges being spaced-apart for fastening means access.

18. The device of Claim 11 wherein the outer arcuate surface of at least one of the mating members serves to engage another flexible sheeting positioned thereupon proximal to one of its linear edges.

19. The device of Claim 11 wherein a second linear channel is disposed lengthwise of the arcuate outer surface of the second member as is similarly aligned to be substantially centrally along the outer surface thereof.