CA2350898A1 - Joining system for tubular members - Google Patents
Joining system for tubular members Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2350898A1 CA2350898A1 CA002350898A CA2350898A CA2350898A1 CA 2350898 A1 CA2350898 A1 CA 2350898A1 CA 002350898 A CA002350898 A CA 002350898A CA 2350898 A CA2350898 A CA 2350898A CA 2350898 A1 CA2350898 A1 CA 2350898A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- tubular
- members
- tubular member
- tubular members
- stabilizing
- 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
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
- E04H15/02—Tents combined or specially associated with other devices
- E04H15/06—Tents at least partially supported by vehicles
-
- 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
- E04H15/44—Supporting means, e.g. frames collapsible, e.g. breakdown type
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T403/00—Joints and connections
- Y10T403/70—Interfitted members
- Y10T403/7062—Clamped members
- Y10T403/7064—Clamped members by wedge or cam
- Y10T403/7066—Clamped members by wedge or cam having actuator
- Y10T403/7067—Threaded actuator
Abstract
A joining system for tubular members which uses attaching members and stabilizing members. The stabilizing members are a ring like shape having a plurality of grooves. The attaching members are generally a bolt and wing nut combination. One tubular member is attached to another tubular member by a groove in a stabilizing member being positioned against a first tubular member, another groove of the stabilizing member being positioned against a second tubular member at a desired angle. The attaching member is positioned through holes in the tubular members and stabilizing members. Two wing nut wrenches for attaching tubular members to each other are also disclosed. One wing nut wrench has a variation in which it is used as a petcock wrench. Two jig systems for holding tubular members in place while holes are drilled therethrough are also disclosed, as is a method for joining tubular members.
Description
JOINING SYSTEM FOR TUBULAR MEMBERS
Background of the Invention:
There are numerous applications for wlz:ic:h it would be desirable to have a quick and easy means and system f:or joining tubu_Lar members at a plurality of <~nc.lularities in a rigid and strong manner. One obvious appl:ication for the herein described joining system would be to f-orm the shell for a temporary structure such as a shade tent: float can quickly and easily be constructed on a beach. Then, when leaving the beach, the temporary structure could be jusi~ as easily broken down and removed. There are a myriad of ~;irn:ilar applications, too numerous to list in their entirety, Borne of which will be described herein by way of example only.
U.S. Patent 229,788 to Winnek disclo~~es a harrow tooth holder for holding the teeth of a harrow in various positions.
U.S. Design Patent 274,404 to Adler shows a wind nut and petcock wrench that is used to turn a wing nut tightly.
U.S. De~~ign Patent 329,178 to Ackerman discloses a wing nut wrench having a handle portion with grooves.
U.S. Patent 504,717 to Fanckboner discloses an umbrella support that allows an umbrella handle to be angled at various angles.
U.S. Patent 595,196 to Bothwell di:~closes a display stand that is formed by tubular members that are attached too each other by various fittings.
U.S. Patent 777,037 to Liebau disclo>e;~ a supporting frame which uses discs to allow the legs to either be locked in operative relation or collapsed in disassembly.
U.S. Patent 1,361,211 to Wilson teactues a wire protector that employs grooved disks to keep wires separate from one another.
U.S. Pat=ent 2, 153, 547 t:o Charlop et a.-~ disclose~~ a hammock tent and support that uses disks t=o provide the same angularity at. two or more ends of the tent...
U.S. Pat=ent 3, 469, 588 to Rainwater di:~c:loses an articulated multisection shelter that uses swivel joints.
U. S . Pat=ent 4, 066, 089 to Rainwater di ~;c:loses a collapsible ~;helter structure that has pivc~ted corner braces.
Background of the Invention:
There are numerous applications for wlz:ic:h it would be desirable to have a quick and easy means and system f:or joining tubu_Lar members at a plurality of <~nc.lularities in a rigid and strong manner. One obvious appl:ication for the herein described joining system would be to f-orm the shell for a temporary structure such as a shade tent: float can quickly and easily be constructed on a beach. Then, when leaving the beach, the temporary structure could be jusi~ as easily broken down and removed. There are a myriad of ~;irn:ilar applications, too numerous to list in their entirety, Borne of which will be described herein by way of example only.
U.S. Patent 229,788 to Winnek disclo~~es a harrow tooth holder for holding the teeth of a harrow in various positions.
U.S. Design Patent 274,404 to Adler shows a wind nut and petcock wrench that is used to turn a wing nut tightly.
U.S. De~~ign Patent 329,178 to Ackerman discloses a wing nut wrench having a handle portion with grooves.
U.S. Patent 504,717 to Fanckboner discloses an umbrella support that allows an umbrella handle to be angled at various angles.
U.S. Patent 595,196 to Bothwell di:~closes a display stand that is formed by tubular members that are attached too each other by various fittings.
U.S. Patent 777,037 to Liebau disclo>e;~ a supporting frame which uses discs to allow the legs to either be locked in operative relation or collapsed in disassembly.
U.S. Patent 1,361,211 to Wilson teactues a wire protector that employs grooved disks to keep wires separate from one another.
U.S. Pat=ent 2, 153, 547 t:o Charlop et a.-~ disclose~~ a hammock tent and support that uses disks t=o provide the same angularity at. two or more ends of the tent...
U.S. Pat=ent 3, 469, 588 to Rainwater di:~c:loses an articulated multisection shelter that uses swivel joints.
U. S . Pat=ent 4, 066, 089 to Rainwater di ~;c:loses a collapsible ~;helter structure that has pivc~ted corner braces.
U. S . Patent 5, 546, 971 t:o Leonhardt dusk:; loses a foldable shelter with struts that disconnect when mot in use.
U.S. Patent 5, 584, 311 to Schaefer tea~sy~es a sel_E
supported tent frame coupler that retains svspport poles at a preferred angular orientation.
U.S. Patent 5, 791, 363 t=o Moses discloses a knoc)tdown portable shelter that forms a particular type of framework.
U.S. Patent 5,908,207 to Wilson disc:~oses a book holder with a stand that is easily assembled by a screw and a wingnut.
U.S. Patent 5, 584, 311 to Schaefer tea~sy~es a sel_E
supported tent frame coupler that retains svspport poles at a preferred angular orientation.
U.S. Patent 5, 791, 363 t=o Moses discloses a knoc)tdown portable shelter that forms a particular type of framework.
U.S. Patent 5,908,207 to Wilson disc:~oses a book holder with a stand that is easily assembled by a screw and a wingnut.
Summary of the Invention:
In order to overcome problems inherent in the prior art, there has been devised by the present invention, a nc=w and novel joining system for joining a plurality of tubu_Lar members to each other at a plurality of angles to thereby form the shell for a structure or other framework. The joining system of the present invention comprises in general,, tubular members, stabilizing members and attaching :members. Each attaching member generally comprises a nui~ and bolt configuration but other such configurations are within the spirit and scope of the invention. Each stabilizing member serves to allow tubular members to be attached to each other at a plurality of angles with a solid arid strong connection formed at the connection of the tubular members. ThE= system also includes two wing nut wrenches for ai:ta~:hing tubular members to one another. A variation of one wing nut wrench is used as a petcock wrench in another application. Two jig systems are also disclosed for holding tubular members in place while holes are drilled through them im order 1.o attach tubular members at a variety of amgu_Lariti_e~ .
Brief Description of the Drawings:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of the basic elernents used in the present structure and framework sy:>tern.
Figure 2 is a perspective view of a i=first wing nut wrench used in the present tubular member joining system.
Figure 2A is a perspective view of a first petcock wrench as it is used in a different application. Figure 2A shows a variation of the first wing nut wrench of Fi~:~ure 2 used for the unrelated purpose of tightening or loosening a petcock.
Figure 2B is a perspective view showing a standard petcock and showing the pieces that the petcock wrench of Figure 2A would come into contact with if the petcock wrench of Figure 2A is used for the unrelated purpose of tightening or loosening a petcock.
Figure 2C is a perspective view of the wing nut wrench of Figures 2 wherein a plurality of wing nut wrenches have varying size's and varying size bolt engaging holes therein.
Figure 2C alao represents a nested version of Figure 2A which also would have varying sizes and varying s:i,,es of petcock .7 engaging sloi~s therein.
Figure 3 is a perspective view of a sect>nd wing nut and petcock wrench used in the present tubular member joining system.
Figure ~4 is a perspective view of a jig system provided with and part of the present invention tha:~i~ allows a tubular member to be held in place i.n the proper position while holes are cut through the tubular member at a des=fired angu7_arity.
Figure 5 is a perspective view of a :.>ec:cmd j fig :>ystem provided with and part of the present invention that allows two tubular :members to be held in place in ~he proper_ position while a hole is cut through both tubular m~~ml>ers at t=he same time. The jig system as shown in Figure _'> .is most often used when the joining system is being set up and particular holes are needed but unavailable, in a particular piece of tubing.
Figure 6 is a perspective view of a fir:>t application of the present tubular member joining system..
Figure 6A is an enlargement of the circled joining configuration as shown in Figure 6.
Figure 7 is a perspective view of a second application of the present tubular member joining system.
Figure 7A is an enlargement of the ci_rc~led joining configuration as shown in E'igure 7.
Figure 8 is a perspective view of a t=hird application of the present tubular member joining system...
Figure 8A is an enlargement of the circled joining configuration as shown in Figure 8.
Figure 9 is a perspective view of a l~oorth app7_ication of the present tubular member joining system.
Figure 9A is an enlargement of the c;_Lrcled joining configuration as shown in Figure 9.
Figure 10 is an explo<~ed view of t-he downspout area of the fourth application of the present tubular member joining system whereby water is removed from the top of the structure as seen in Figure 9.
Figure 11 is a perspective view of a fifth application of the present tubular member joining syst=em.
Figure 11A is an enlargement of the ~~ir_cled jo_Lning configuration as shown in Figure 11.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments:
Referring now to the drawings in general, and in particular to Figure 1, there is shown <~ perspective view of the basic elements used in the present joining system for tubular members. It is to be understood that the herein described joining system for tubular members has many applications and the applications descr=ibed and shown herein should be viewed as examples only and the present invention should not b~e limited by such examples. The present invention should also :not be limited to the sizes of the parts described. In Figure 1 there is seen, the basic elements neceSSary fo.r the joining of tubular members of the present invention. 'The system is shown generally :by the number 10.
The system includes tubular members 12 that ~~ire joined to other tubular members 12 by means of a stahiLizing member 14 and an attaclZing means, shown generally by tine number 16, and in the form of an attacr~:ing member 1F3. TLne :stabilizing member 14, in the form of a st ~ilizer 20, is generally a ring like shape. Thr stabilizing memt~er 14 has at. t:lze top surf=ace 22 and the bottom surface 24 of its ring like shape, a plurality of grooves 26. These groove: 26 are of a sizte adapted to fit and hold a tabular member 12. so that two t=ub~zlar members 12 can be attached to each other at a 22-'~, l1 5 ~ ~r 90 de<free angle. Other angles, of course, would be wi;.hin the spirit and scope of the invention. There are holes 28 in the tubular members 12 at appropriate intervals for receiving an attaching member 18 as will be described hereinaft:er. In pract:ice, as seen in Figures 6A, 7A, 8A, 9A and 11A, a first tubu~Lar member 30 is placed in a desired groove 26 on t:he top surface 22 or bottom surface 24 of the stabilizing member 1.4, as seen in Figure 1. A aecond tubular member 32 is then placed in a groove 26 on the surface 22 or 24 of the ~~tabilizing member 14 that is oppoaite the first tubular member :30 at the desired angle relative to the first tubular mem>;>er 3i~, with holes 28 in the tubular members 12 lined up. So, for example, if the first tubular member 30 is placed in a grc:~ove 26 on t:he top surface 22 of the stabilizing member 14, them the second tubular member 32 is placed in a groove 26 on the bottom surface 24 of the stabilizing member 14 arid vice ver~~a. The attaching member 18 comprises generally a 1:>oLt and a wing nut combination 34, but other attaching member's 18 would be within the spirit and scope of the invention. Th~? bolt portion 36 of the bolt and wing nut combination 34 include: a bolt 37, having a bolt head 38, the bolt 3~/ is pos:i_ti«ned through the lined up holes 28 in the tubular members 7_2. The wing nut portion 39 of the bolt and wing nut combination 39 i;~
tightened down, thereby connecting the t=wo tcibular members 30 and 32 at the desired angular relationship, ,~s seen in Figures 6A, 7A, 8A, 9A and 11A. The stabilizing member 14 then serves two purposes. First, it supports a first tubular member 30 at a preferred angularity to a second tubular member 32 and second, it supports and forms a brace for the resultant framework such that no further support, su~~h as a diagonal brace is required for a structure or framework 40, as seen in Figures 6, 7, 8, 9 and 11. The tubular members 12 each have end caps 41, so that sharp ends 42 of the tubular mernbers 12 do not remain exposed. The present system 1~;) for joining tubular members 12 facilitates the quick and simple assembly and disassembly of innumerable configuration: of structures or frameworks 40. The resulting framework 40 i:~ flexible in the size of pieces used and the number of pierces used and accommodates many applications that require that the structure or framework have strength.
Referring now to Figure 2 of the dracain~ls there i.s shown a further element of the present joining ;system 10, a first wing nut wrench shown generally by the number 44. The first wing nut wrench 44 is substantially a piece ~.~f metal channeling 46 having at least two holes 48 amd 50 through the lower surface 52 of the channel 46. The 1=ir~t hole 48 is substantially in the middle of the lower :~u:r(ace 52 of the channel 46, and is adapted to fit the bolt; p<ortion 3c~ of a bolt and wing nut combination 34, as seen :in Figure 1. In practice, the channel 46 is positioned atop the bolt portion 36 of a bolt and wing nut combination 34 a:mc~ the bolt. portion 36 of the bo_Lt and wing nut combination 39 i:> positioned through the :First hole 48 in the channel. 46. The wings 54 of the wing nut 56 of the bolt and wing nut combination 34, as seen in Figure l, fit within the sides 58 and 60 of t:he channel 46 to provide the leverage needed t:o turn they wing nut 56. The channel 46 is then turned to movcJ the wing nut 56 of the bolt and wing nut combination 34 relative to the bolt portion 36 of the bolt and wing nut combination 34, either loosening or tightening the wing nut 56.
A second hole 50 is positioned also :in t:he lower surface 52 of the channel 46 substantially at the first 62 o:r second 64 end of the lower surface 52 of the channel 46. The purpose of this second hole 50 is to allow the ;sec:ond hole 50 to be positioned over the bolt portion 36 of a bolt and wing nut combination 34 when the wing nut 56 is :in close quarters, so that it is not required that the wing nut wrench 44 have a large space in which to be churned.
Referring now to Figure 2A there is shown a perspective view of a first petcock wrench as used :in a differenl~
application. If the wing nut wrench 44 0~= Figure 2 :is used for the unrelated purpose of opening a pet=cock 66, as seen in Figure 2B, a notch 68 is formed in the wing nut wrench 44 thereby making the wrench a petcock wrench 69. The notch 68 in the petco~~k wrench 69 is adapted to fit. around an indented screw and nut combination 7c) in a petcock 66, as seen in Figure 2B. 'The hole 48 in the petcock wre:acO 69 through which the screw portion 72 of the screw and nut ~~ombination 70 of the petcock 66, as seen in Figure 2B, would allow fluid or air to pass easily from the petcock 66. A t~ha_rd hole 74 is also positioned through the lower surface 52 of. the channel-46.
Through the third hole 74 there is threaded <~ loop 76 of cording 78 or other attaching material, and attached also on the loop 76 is a tag 79. Tlne tag 79 serves at least two purposes: first to identify the manufactur~e.r, indicia can be added to the tag 79; and second to provide a hanging means 80 by which the wing nut wrench 44 or the pet=~~c~ck wrench 69 can be hung on a wall or equipment to later be found easily.
Referring now to Figure 2C of the drawings there is shown a perspective view of the wrenches 44 of Figure 2 and 69 of Figure 2A wherein there is a plurality of wing nut wrenches 44 that have varying size bolt engaging holes 4~3 therein. Thus, the differing sizes of wing nut wrench 44 ~~aiu serve different functions in different applications. It can be seen from Figure 2C that it can also represent a nested version of Figure 2A wherein the petcock wrenches 69 can also bE: nested for varying size and varying size of petcock engaging slots 68. In the preferred embodiment of Figure 2~:;, the smallest wing nut wrench 81 may be used to turn thumb screws or small wing nuts, the medium sized wing nut wrench '32 may be used to 5 turn petcocks, and the largest wing nut wrench 83 may be used to turn larger wing nuts.
Referring now to Figure 3 of the drawings there is shown a perspective view of a sec~>nd type of wing nut wrench, shown generally by the number 84, which is used irr the present 10 system. The second wing nut wrench 84 is a cylindrical member 85, a hollow cylindrical tube 86 having holes 87 and 88 at both ends 90 and 92. The wing nut wrench 84 is substantially a deep socket with a slot 94 across the he:~ end 96. The end 98 opposite of the hex end '~6 of the tube 86 has a square hole 15 88 as would be found in a typical socket. wrench, the square hole 88 being compatible to receive the handle 100 oi= a socket wrench, as seen in Figure 3. The slot 94 a1= the hex end 96 of the tube 86 with the hex opening or hole 87 has substantially across the diameter 102 of t=he hex opening or hole 87 two notches 104 and 106 forming the slot 94 for receiving the wing nut portion 39 of a bolt and wing nut combination 39, as seen in Figure 1. In practice, the cylindrical. t~Ibe 84 is inserted atop the wing nut portion 39 of a bolt and wing nut combination 34, as seen in Figure 1. Upon turning the tube 86, the wing nut 56 is then tightened or loosened from t:he-bolt portion 36 of the bolt and wing nut combination 34, depending on which way the tube 86 is turned.
As seen in Figure 4, also provided in tine present: system for joining tubular members 10 is a first jig system 1.08 for holding a tubular member 12 in place while it has holes 28 placed therein at various desired angles, as seen in Figure 1.
The first jig system 108 of the present invention i,s shown most clearly in Figure 4 and comprises in general, a device 110 having a lower plate 112 with a tubular member 1:2 receiving groove 114 routed in the upper surface 116 of the lower plate 112. A stop 118 is provided v;~o be positioned through an upper plate 120 and the lower plate 112 such that as a tubular member 12, as seen in Figure 1, is positioned in the groove 114 within the device 110, the tubular member 12 is forced to stop at a location corresponding t:~ the position where it is appropriate to drill a hole through the tubular member 12. The upper plate 120 has a plurality of holes 122 therethrough for holding a drill bit in position when holes 28 are being drilled in a tubular member 12, as seen in E'igure 1.
In practice, a tubular member 12 is inserted in the ji_g device 110 and stopped by the stop 118. Attaching members 123, in the form of knob handled screws 124 are tightened to hold a tubular member 12 in place while a hole 2~3 is being drilled therethrough. A hole 28 is formed throug:n the tubular member 12 by placing a drill bit through the appropriate hole 122 in the upper surface 126 of the upper plate 120. To then drill a hole 28 at a 90 degree angle to the first hole 28 the knob handled screws 124 are loosened, the tubular member 12 is turned sideways to a position parallel to the upper surface ~ 116 of the lower plate 112. Any item suitable, such as the doweled block 128, is positioned through the first hole 129 in the upper plate 120 and consequently throw-gh the freshly drilled hole 28 in the tubular member 12 tc lock the tubular member 12 in. place parallel to the upper surface 116 of the lower plate 112, and a drill bit is positicned through an appropriate hole 122 in the upper surface 126 of the upper plate 120. If the doweled block 128 is used to lock t:he tubular member 12 in place parallel to t=he lower platE: 112, the dowel 130 is attached to the undersurface 132 of t:he block 134 as seen in Figure 4. fhe dowel 130 is inserted into the first hole 129 in the upper plate 120 and goes through the hole 28 in the tubular member 12 under the upper plate 120 thereby locking the tubular rnemher 12 in place in the groove 114. The appropriate hole 129 to use in t.rre upper plate 120 to achieve a. 90 degree angle between two holes 28 in a tubular member 12, for example, can be identified for the user by color coding of the holes 122 in the upper plate 120, or other suitable means.
Referring now to Figure 5 of the drawings there is shown a perspective view of a second jig system 136 provided with and part of the present invention. The second jig sy~~tem 136 is most often used to hold a tubular member 12 in place in a fixed position while a hole 28 is cut through the tubular member 12, while the joining system 10, as seen in Figure 1, is being set. up. The second jig system 136 is generally used with the joining system 10 being partially put together and wherein a hole 28 in a tubular member 12 is necessary, but unavailable, for completing a particular structure o_r framework 40. In Figure 5, it can be seers that the second jig system 136 comprises an upper 135 and lower plate 13'7 in the form of two generally rectangular members 133 and 140, each having a plurality of holes 142 therethrough. Each rectangular member 138 and 140 has at least ~:me hole 142 generally at a first end 144 and at least a second hole 146 generally at a second end 148. Each rect<~ngular member 138 and 140 also has a generally central ho_Le 150 and generally includes a metal u-shaped portion 152 and a high-density polyethylene t-shaped portion 154, which i=its inside the u-shaped portion 152. In practice, a bolt portion 36 of a bolt and wing nut combination 34, as seen in Fugure 1, is positioned through the hole 142 in the first end 144 of a first rectangular member 133 and through t::he corresponding hole 142 in the first end 144 of a second rectangular member 140. The wine it portion 39 of a bolt and wing nut combination 34 is screwed down in a conventional manner to position the second jig system 136 around two attached tubular members 12. The second end 148 of the first 138 and second rectangular members 140 are attached to each other a.s the first ends 144 were. Thus, with the tubu.Lar members 1.2 and 5 the second jig system 136 attached as shown in Figure 5, a hole can be drilled through both of the tubular members 12 at position 156, by placing a drill bit in the centralized hole 150 in the rectangular members 138 and 140 and drilling into the tubular member 12.
10 The following examples show some ways in which the present joining system for tubular members 10 can be used.
They are meant as examples only and various changes to the sizes arrangements of various parts are w:ithin the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, with slight changes to 15 the sizes of parts, the present joining system for tubular members 10 can be used to form various configurations of scaffolding.
Referring now to Figure 6 of the drawings, there is shown one application of the present joining system for tubular 20 members 10. Figure 6 is a perspective view of a con:Eiguration of the present system used as a protection structure from wind or sun having a slightly slanted roof 158 so as not to hold rain on top. The angle used to connect t'wo tubular :members 12 together to form the slanted roof 158 may be 22 '~ degrees, or other desired angle. The slanted roof 158 is attached to the framework 160 formed by the tubular members 12 by means of stretch cords 162 through grommets 164 in a tarpaulin 165 in a known manner.
Figure 6A is an enlargement of the circled area in Figure 6 showing an enlargement of the parts forming the appropriate angle 166 in Figure 6. Figure 6A shows more clearly the arrangement of the tubular members 12, stabilizing member 14, attaching means 16 in the form of an attaching member 18 which is a bolt and wing nut combination 34.
Referring now to Figure 7 of the drawings there is shown a perspective view of a second applicat:ion of the present tubular member joining system 10 wherein t::he system is used to provide shade or other protection, such a~~ a temporary carport 168 for a ca.r. Joining occurs at four locations 170, 172, 174, and 176 so as to form a two-sided struct=ure or i=ramework 177 having a partially slanted roof 178 on top 180 o:f the framework 177. Then, across the top 180 of the framework 177, a second set of joining 182 and 184 occurs at an ang:ie to form the triangular section 186 of the roof :i7E3. The roo:E 178 of Figure 7 is attached to the framework 160 formed by 1=he tubular members 12 by means of stretch cords 162 through grommets 164 in a tarpaulin 165 in a known manner similar to Figure 6.
Figure 7A is an enlargement of the circ_ied area in Figure 7, similar to Figure 6A, showing an enlargement of the parts forming the appropriate ang=Le 188 in Figure 7. Figure 7A
shows more clearly the arrangement of the 'tubular members 12, stabilizing member 14, attaching means 16 -in the form of an attaching member 18 which is a bolt and wing nut combination 34.
Referring now to Figure 8 of the draw=ings there is shown a perspective view of a t=hird application of the pre~~ent tubular member joining system 10 wherein t=he system i.s used to provide a temporary protective structure or framework: 187 with a portion positioned directly atop a van 1.88 or other vehicle.
The application as shown in Figure 8 using the present: tubular member joining system 10 for a temporary structure or framework 187 can be used, for example, b:y a van owner who uses his vehicle to transport things to sell, such a;s a local fruit vendor. Another use for the appl.ic<~tion shown i.n Figure 8 would be a camper who sets up a temporary shade fo:r a patio when parked at a camping site. The roof _190 of Figure 8 is attached to the framework 187 formed by the tubular members 12 by means of stretch cords 162 through grommets 164 in a tarpaulin 165 known manner similar to Figures 6 and '7.
Figure 8A is an enlargement of the circled area in Figure 8, similar to Figures 6A and 7A, showing an enlargement of the parts forming the appropriate angle 192 in Figure 8. Figure 8A shows more clearly the arrangement of t=:he tubular members 12, stabilizing member 14, attaching mean's 15 in the form of an attaching member 18 which is a bolt and wing nut combination 34.
To form the configuration as shown in Figure 8, two vertically placed tubular members 12 of a~>propriate height approximating the height of a van 188 are ea<vh attached to a horizontally placed tubular member 12, su~~h that the vertically placed tubular members 12 are at a 90 degree angle to the horizontally placed tubular member 12. One of two stabilizing members 14 are each positioned between the tubular members 12 with holes 28 and grooves 26 appropriately lined up as seen in Figure 8A. Two more tubular members 196 and 198 are then attached to the top end 194 of the vertically positioned tubular members 200 and 202 and tine tubular members 12 are connected to each other as described herein with stabilizing members 14 positioned sandwiched between. Two further tubular members 204 and 206 are then attached to the tubular members 196 and 198 extending from the vertically positioned members 200 and 202, such that a second horizontally positioned tubular member 208 can be positioned between the last described tubular members 204 and 206 to provide a framework 187 as seen in Figure 8. The second horizontally positioned tubular member :?0E3 would be placed on the top 210 of a van 188 or other vehic_Le to make the framework 187 as shown in Figure 8.
Referring now to Figure 9 there is shown a perspective ~5 view of a fourth application of the present tubular member joining system 10 wherein the system is used to provide a rain water collection system 209. In Figure 9 it can be seen that tubular members 12 of approximately the same height are attached to each other at ninety-degree angles to therefore form a generally boxed shaped structure 210. The boxed shaped structure 210 can easily have a tarpaulin 165 positioned loosely across its top 212 and attached with stretch cords 162 or other means positioned through a grommet 164 in the tarpaulin 165 in a known manner. If the tarpaulin 165 is slightly larger than the top 212 of the box shaped structure 210, the tarpaulin 165 will bow or sag in its centra:L portion 214, thereby generally forming an upside down umbrella sort of configuration. Attached generally in the central portion 214 of the tarpaulin 165 is pos:Ltioned a downspout 216. A mesh portion 218 of the downspoui~ 216 protrude~~ above the upper surface 220 of the tarpaulin 165 and servers too keep 7_eaves from entering the downspout 216 area. As .rain falls it is directed onto the upper surface 220 of t;he tarpaulin 165 and by natural f_Low toward the naturally occurring cavity of the central portion 214 of the tarpaulin 165 and down thc~
downspout 216 into piping 222 and elbow joints 223 to be carried also by natural flow into a holding device 229 such as a bucket 226 or other water holding container. The mesh portion 218 of the downspout 216 is formed by flexible-plastic that is collapsible for packing and moving the rain collection system 209. The mesh portion 218 of the downspout 21E> is attached to the solid piping 222 below the lower surface 230 of the tarpaulin 165 by means of thumb screws 231 pushed through the lower end 232 of the mesh portion 218 and into a hole 233 in a fitting 234, as seen most clearly in Figure 10.
A hole 235 that corresponds to hole 233 or~ the fitting 234 is positioned t:hrough a coupling 236 for an elbow joint 223, as seen most c7_early in Figure 10. The thumbscrew 231 is then secured with a bolt 238 within the coupling 236, as seen also in Figure 10.
Figure 9A is an enlargement of the circled area in Figure 9, similar t:o Figures 6A, iA and 8A, ShOW1_T~lg an enlargement of the parts forming the appropriate angle 229 in Figure 9.
Figure 9A shows more clearly the arrangement of the tubular 2 '7 members 12, stabilizing member 14, attaching means 16 in the form of an attaching member 18 which is a bolt and wing nut combination 34.
Referring now to Figure 10 of the drawings, there is shown an exploded view of the downspout 216 area of 'the fourth application of the present tubular member joining system 10 whereby water is removed from the structure 210 seen in Figure 9. Figure 10 shows in more detail the downspout 216 area of the application shown in Figure 9. The flexible plastic mesh 228 forms the caged portion 218 of the downspout 216. The cylindrical plastic mesh 228 is held atop the fitting 234 positioned above the upper Surface 220 of the tarpau:Lin 165 by means of thumb screws 231 and a bolt 23E3, as seen in Figure 10. The fitting 234 is standard plumbing type fitting that has notches 240 to provide flow of water i_rom the lowest level 242 of the cavity 244 at the central port.i_on 214 of i~he tarpaulin 165, as seen in F=figures 9 and 10. Another thumb screw 231 fits through the upper fitting 2:34 above the upper surface 220 of the tarpaulin 165 and a lower fitting 246 below the lower surface 230 of the tarpaulin 165 as seen in Figures 9 and 10. The lower fitting 246 fits within a combination coupling and clamp 236 positioned over the elbow joint. 223, the elbow joint 223 being connected to conventional plumbing piping 222. The combination coupling and clamp 236 allows the elbow joint 223 to be turned in any direction.
Referring now to Figure 11 of the drawings, there is shown a perspective view of a fifth application of t:he present tubular member joining system 10 wherein v~~he tubular members 12 are joined to form generally an open sided, open topped rectangular box shape 248 that holds firewood 250. 'rhe shape 248 of Figure 11, can, of course, be formed in any practical dimensions. Because of the increased stability afforded to the framework 252 by the stabilizing members 14, a hE~avy load of firewood 250 can be held.
Figure 11A is an enlargement of the circled area in Figure 11, similar to Figures 6A, 7A, 8A, and 9A, showing an enlargement of the parts forming the appropriate ang=Le 254 in Figure 11. figure 11A shows more clearly the arrangement of the tubular members 12, stabilizing member L4, attaching means 16 in the foam of an attaching member 18 wh:ic:h is a bolt and 2~
wing nut combination 34.
It can be seen from the above described examples that there can be achieved by the present joining system :for tubular members a multiplicity of angularities and combined angularities can be juxtaposed. Any proposed angularity or combination of angularities would therefore be within the spirit and scope of the invention.
It can also be seen from the foregoing that many advantages are accomplished by the tubular member joining system 10 of the present invention. A stabilizing member 14 has been provided which is a ring like member having grooves 26 on its top 22 and bottom surface 24 to form the seat for holding a tubular member 12 at one of a p:Lurality of angularities relative to another tubular member 12. Two types of wing nut and petcock wrenches 44 and 82 have also been disclosed.
Two types of jig systems 108 and 136 for holding a tubular member 12 in place while a hole 2s3 is drilled therethrough have also been disclosed. A method of joining tubular members to each other has also been disclosed whereby the stabilizing member 14 is used to attach one tubular member 12 to a second tubular member 12 at a desired angle.
While there has been accomplished advantages by t:he Applicant's invention, nevertheless, variation in the 5 structure of the invention and the arrangement of the various parts are within the spirit and scope of the Applica:nt's invention. The embodiments given have been given only by way of illustration and the Applicant is not to be limited to the embodiments shown and described.
In order to overcome problems inherent in the prior art, there has been devised by the present invention, a nc=w and novel joining system for joining a plurality of tubu_Lar members to each other at a plurality of angles to thereby form the shell for a structure or other framework. The joining system of the present invention comprises in general,, tubular members, stabilizing members and attaching :members. Each attaching member generally comprises a nui~ and bolt configuration but other such configurations are within the spirit and scope of the invention. Each stabilizing member serves to allow tubular members to be attached to each other at a plurality of angles with a solid arid strong connection formed at the connection of the tubular members. ThE= system also includes two wing nut wrenches for ai:ta~:hing tubular members to one another. A variation of one wing nut wrench is used as a petcock wrench in another application. Two jig systems are also disclosed for holding tubular members in place while holes are drilled through them im order 1.o attach tubular members at a variety of amgu_Lariti_e~ .
Brief Description of the Drawings:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of the basic elernents used in the present structure and framework sy:>tern.
Figure 2 is a perspective view of a i=first wing nut wrench used in the present tubular member joining system.
Figure 2A is a perspective view of a first petcock wrench as it is used in a different application. Figure 2A shows a variation of the first wing nut wrench of Fi~:~ure 2 used for the unrelated purpose of tightening or loosening a petcock.
Figure 2B is a perspective view showing a standard petcock and showing the pieces that the petcock wrench of Figure 2A would come into contact with if the petcock wrench of Figure 2A is used for the unrelated purpose of tightening or loosening a petcock.
Figure 2C is a perspective view of the wing nut wrench of Figures 2 wherein a plurality of wing nut wrenches have varying size's and varying size bolt engaging holes therein.
Figure 2C alao represents a nested version of Figure 2A which also would have varying sizes and varying s:i,,es of petcock .7 engaging sloi~s therein.
Figure 3 is a perspective view of a sect>nd wing nut and petcock wrench used in the present tubular member joining system.
Figure ~4 is a perspective view of a jig system provided with and part of the present invention tha:~i~ allows a tubular member to be held in place i.n the proper position while holes are cut through the tubular member at a des=fired angu7_arity.
Figure 5 is a perspective view of a :.>ec:cmd j fig :>ystem provided with and part of the present invention that allows two tubular :members to be held in place in ~he proper_ position while a hole is cut through both tubular m~~ml>ers at t=he same time. The jig system as shown in Figure _'> .is most often used when the joining system is being set up and particular holes are needed but unavailable, in a particular piece of tubing.
Figure 6 is a perspective view of a fir:>t application of the present tubular member joining system..
Figure 6A is an enlargement of the circled joining configuration as shown in Figure 6.
Figure 7 is a perspective view of a second application of the present tubular member joining system.
Figure 7A is an enlargement of the ci_rc~led joining configuration as shown in E'igure 7.
Figure 8 is a perspective view of a t=hird application of the present tubular member joining system...
Figure 8A is an enlargement of the circled joining configuration as shown in Figure 8.
Figure 9 is a perspective view of a l~oorth app7_ication of the present tubular member joining system.
Figure 9A is an enlargement of the c;_Lrcled joining configuration as shown in Figure 9.
Figure 10 is an explo<~ed view of t-he downspout area of the fourth application of the present tubular member joining system whereby water is removed from the top of the structure as seen in Figure 9.
Figure 11 is a perspective view of a fifth application of the present tubular member joining syst=em.
Figure 11A is an enlargement of the ~~ir_cled jo_Lning configuration as shown in Figure 11.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments:
Referring now to the drawings in general, and in particular to Figure 1, there is shown <~ perspective view of the basic elements used in the present joining system for tubular members. It is to be understood that the herein described joining system for tubular members has many applications and the applications descr=ibed and shown herein should be viewed as examples only and the present invention should not b~e limited by such examples. The present invention should also :not be limited to the sizes of the parts described. In Figure 1 there is seen, the basic elements neceSSary fo.r the joining of tubular members of the present invention. 'The system is shown generally :by the number 10.
The system includes tubular members 12 that ~~ire joined to other tubular members 12 by means of a stahiLizing member 14 and an attaclZing means, shown generally by tine number 16, and in the form of an attacr~:ing member 1F3. TLne :stabilizing member 14, in the form of a st ~ilizer 20, is generally a ring like shape. Thr stabilizing memt~er 14 has at. t:lze top surf=ace 22 and the bottom surface 24 of its ring like shape, a plurality of grooves 26. These groove: 26 are of a sizte adapted to fit and hold a tabular member 12. so that two t=ub~zlar members 12 can be attached to each other at a 22-'~, l1 5 ~ ~r 90 de<free angle. Other angles, of course, would be wi;.hin the spirit and scope of the invention. There are holes 28 in the tubular members 12 at appropriate intervals for receiving an attaching member 18 as will be described hereinaft:er. In pract:ice, as seen in Figures 6A, 7A, 8A, 9A and 11A, a first tubu~Lar member 30 is placed in a desired groove 26 on t:he top surface 22 or bottom surface 24 of the stabilizing member 1.4, as seen in Figure 1. A aecond tubular member 32 is then placed in a groove 26 on the surface 22 or 24 of the ~~tabilizing member 14 that is oppoaite the first tubular member :30 at the desired angle relative to the first tubular mem>;>er 3i~, with holes 28 in the tubular members 12 lined up. So, for example, if the first tubular member 30 is placed in a grc:~ove 26 on t:he top surface 22 of the stabilizing member 14, them the second tubular member 32 is placed in a groove 26 on the bottom surface 24 of the stabilizing member 14 arid vice ver~~a. The attaching member 18 comprises generally a 1:>oLt and a wing nut combination 34, but other attaching member's 18 would be within the spirit and scope of the invention. Th~? bolt portion 36 of the bolt and wing nut combination 34 include: a bolt 37, having a bolt head 38, the bolt 3~/ is pos:i_ti«ned through the lined up holes 28 in the tubular members 7_2. The wing nut portion 39 of the bolt and wing nut combination 39 i;~
tightened down, thereby connecting the t=wo tcibular members 30 and 32 at the desired angular relationship, ,~s seen in Figures 6A, 7A, 8A, 9A and 11A. The stabilizing member 14 then serves two purposes. First, it supports a first tubular member 30 at a preferred angularity to a second tubular member 32 and second, it supports and forms a brace for the resultant framework such that no further support, su~~h as a diagonal brace is required for a structure or framework 40, as seen in Figures 6, 7, 8, 9 and 11. The tubular members 12 each have end caps 41, so that sharp ends 42 of the tubular mernbers 12 do not remain exposed. The present system 1~;) for joining tubular members 12 facilitates the quick and simple assembly and disassembly of innumerable configuration: of structures or frameworks 40. The resulting framework 40 i:~ flexible in the size of pieces used and the number of pierces used and accommodates many applications that require that the structure or framework have strength.
Referring now to Figure 2 of the dracain~ls there i.s shown a further element of the present joining ;system 10, a first wing nut wrench shown generally by the number 44. The first wing nut wrench 44 is substantially a piece ~.~f metal channeling 46 having at least two holes 48 amd 50 through the lower surface 52 of the channel 46. The 1=ir~t hole 48 is substantially in the middle of the lower :~u:r(ace 52 of the channel 46, and is adapted to fit the bolt; p<ortion 3c~ of a bolt and wing nut combination 34, as seen :in Figure 1. In practice, the channel 46 is positioned atop the bolt portion 36 of a bolt and wing nut combination 34 a:mc~ the bolt. portion 36 of the bo_Lt and wing nut combination 39 i:> positioned through the :First hole 48 in the channel. 46. The wings 54 of the wing nut 56 of the bolt and wing nut combination 34, as seen in Figure l, fit within the sides 58 and 60 of t:he channel 46 to provide the leverage needed t:o turn they wing nut 56. The channel 46 is then turned to movcJ the wing nut 56 of the bolt and wing nut combination 34 relative to the bolt portion 36 of the bolt and wing nut combination 34, either loosening or tightening the wing nut 56.
A second hole 50 is positioned also :in t:he lower surface 52 of the channel 46 substantially at the first 62 o:r second 64 end of the lower surface 52 of the channel 46. The purpose of this second hole 50 is to allow the ;sec:ond hole 50 to be positioned over the bolt portion 36 of a bolt and wing nut combination 34 when the wing nut 56 is :in close quarters, so that it is not required that the wing nut wrench 44 have a large space in which to be churned.
Referring now to Figure 2A there is shown a perspective view of a first petcock wrench as used :in a differenl~
application. If the wing nut wrench 44 0~= Figure 2 :is used for the unrelated purpose of opening a pet=cock 66, as seen in Figure 2B, a notch 68 is formed in the wing nut wrench 44 thereby making the wrench a petcock wrench 69. The notch 68 in the petco~~k wrench 69 is adapted to fit. around an indented screw and nut combination 7c) in a petcock 66, as seen in Figure 2B. 'The hole 48 in the petcock wre:acO 69 through which the screw portion 72 of the screw and nut ~~ombination 70 of the petcock 66, as seen in Figure 2B, would allow fluid or air to pass easily from the petcock 66. A t~ha_rd hole 74 is also positioned through the lower surface 52 of. the channel-46.
Through the third hole 74 there is threaded <~ loop 76 of cording 78 or other attaching material, and attached also on the loop 76 is a tag 79. Tlne tag 79 serves at least two purposes: first to identify the manufactur~e.r, indicia can be added to the tag 79; and second to provide a hanging means 80 by which the wing nut wrench 44 or the pet=~~c~ck wrench 69 can be hung on a wall or equipment to later be found easily.
Referring now to Figure 2C of the drawings there is shown a perspective view of the wrenches 44 of Figure 2 and 69 of Figure 2A wherein there is a plurality of wing nut wrenches 44 that have varying size bolt engaging holes 4~3 therein. Thus, the differing sizes of wing nut wrench 44 ~~aiu serve different functions in different applications. It can be seen from Figure 2C that it can also represent a nested version of Figure 2A wherein the petcock wrenches 69 can also bE: nested for varying size and varying size of petcock engaging slots 68. In the preferred embodiment of Figure 2~:;, the smallest wing nut wrench 81 may be used to turn thumb screws or small wing nuts, the medium sized wing nut wrench '32 may be used to 5 turn petcocks, and the largest wing nut wrench 83 may be used to turn larger wing nuts.
Referring now to Figure 3 of the drawings there is shown a perspective view of a sec~>nd type of wing nut wrench, shown generally by the number 84, which is used irr the present 10 system. The second wing nut wrench 84 is a cylindrical member 85, a hollow cylindrical tube 86 having holes 87 and 88 at both ends 90 and 92. The wing nut wrench 84 is substantially a deep socket with a slot 94 across the he:~ end 96. The end 98 opposite of the hex end '~6 of the tube 86 has a square hole 15 88 as would be found in a typical socket. wrench, the square hole 88 being compatible to receive the handle 100 oi= a socket wrench, as seen in Figure 3. The slot 94 a1= the hex end 96 of the tube 86 with the hex opening or hole 87 has substantially across the diameter 102 of t=he hex opening or hole 87 two notches 104 and 106 forming the slot 94 for receiving the wing nut portion 39 of a bolt and wing nut combination 39, as seen in Figure 1. In practice, the cylindrical. t~Ibe 84 is inserted atop the wing nut portion 39 of a bolt and wing nut combination 34, as seen in Figure 1. Upon turning the tube 86, the wing nut 56 is then tightened or loosened from t:he-bolt portion 36 of the bolt and wing nut combination 34, depending on which way the tube 86 is turned.
As seen in Figure 4, also provided in tine present: system for joining tubular members 10 is a first jig system 1.08 for holding a tubular member 12 in place while it has holes 28 placed therein at various desired angles, as seen in Figure 1.
The first jig system 108 of the present invention i,s shown most clearly in Figure 4 and comprises in general, a device 110 having a lower plate 112 with a tubular member 1:2 receiving groove 114 routed in the upper surface 116 of the lower plate 112. A stop 118 is provided v;~o be positioned through an upper plate 120 and the lower plate 112 such that as a tubular member 12, as seen in Figure 1, is positioned in the groove 114 within the device 110, the tubular member 12 is forced to stop at a location corresponding t:~ the position where it is appropriate to drill a hole through the tubular member 12. The upper plate 120 has a plurality of holes 122 therethrough for holding a drill bit in position when holes 28 are being drilled in a tubular member 12, as seen in E'igure 1.
In practice, a tubular member 12 is inserted in the ji_g device 110 and stopped by the stop 118. Attaching members 123, in the form of knob handled screws 124 are tightened to hold a tubular member 12 in place while a hole 2~3 is being drilled therethrough. A hole 28 is formed throug:n the tubular member 12 by placing a drill bit through the appropriate hole 122 in the upper surface 126 of the upper plate 120. To then drill a hole 28 at a 90 degree angle to the first hole 28 the knob handled screws 124 are loosened, the tubular member 12 is turned sideways to a position parallel to the upper surface ~ 116 of the lower plate 112. Any item suitable, such as the doweled block 128, is positioned through the first hole 129 in the upper plate 120 and consequently throw-gh the freshly drilled hole 28 in the tubular member 12 tc lock the tubular member 12 in. place parallel to the upper surface 116 of the lower plate 112, and a drill bit is positicned through an appropriate hole 122 in the upper surface 126 of the upper plate 120. If the doweled block 128 is used to lock t:he tubular member 12 in place parallel to t=he lower platE: 112, the dowel 130 is attached to the undersurface 132 of t:he block 134 as seen in Figure 4. fhe dowel 130 is inserted into the first hole 129 in the upper plate 120 and goes through the hole 28 in the tubular member 12 under the upper plate 120 thereby locking the tubular rnemher 12 in place in the groove 114. The appropriate hole 129 to use in t.rre upper plate 120 to achieve a. 90 degree angle between two holes 28 in a tubular member 12, for example, can be identified for the user by color coding of the holes 122 in the upper plate 120, or other suitable means.
Referring now to Figure 5 of the drawings there is shown a perspective view of a second jig system 136 provided with and part of the present invention. The second jig sy~~tem 136 is most often used to hold a tubular member 12 in place in a fixed position while a hole 28 is cut through the tubular member 12, while the joining system 10, as seen in Figure 1, is being set. up. The second jig system 136 is generally used with the joining system 10 being partially put together and wherein a hole 28 in a tubular member 12 is necessary, but unavailable, for completing a particular structure o_r framework 40. In Figure 5, it can be seers that the second jig system 136 comprises an upper 135 and lower plate 13'7 in the form of two generally rectangular members 133 and 140, each having a plurality of holes 142 therethrough. Each rectangular member 138 and 140 has at least ~:me hole 142 generally at a first end 144 and at least a second hole 146 generally at a second end 148. Each rect<~ngular member 138 and 140 also has a generally central ho_Le 150 and generally includes a metal u-shaped portion 152 and a high-density polyethylene t-shaped portion 154, which i=its inside the u-shaped portion 152. In practice, a bolt portion 36 of a bolt and wing nut combination 34, as seen in Fugure 1, is positioned through the hole 142 in the first end 144 of a first rectangular member 133 and through t::he corresponding hole 142 in the first end 144 of a second rectangular member 140. The wine it portion 39 of a bolt and wing nut combination 34 is screwed down in a conventional manner to position the second jig system 136 around two attached tubular members 12. The second end 148 of the first 138 and second rectangular members 140 are attached to each other a.s the first ends 144 were. Thus, with the tubu.Lar members 1.2 and 5 the second jig system 136 attached as shown in Figure 5, a hole can be drilled through both of the tubular members 12 at position 156, by placing a drill bit in the centralized hole 150 in the rectangular members 138 and 140 and drilling into the tubular member 12.
10 The following examples show some ways in which the present joining system for tubular members 10 can be used.
They are meant as examples only and various changes to the sizes arrangements of various parts are w:ithin the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, with slight changes to 15 the sizes of parts, the present joining system for tubular members 10 can be used to form various configurations of scaffolding.
Referring now to Figure 6 of the drawings, there is shown one application of the present joining system for tubular 20 members 10. Figure 6 is a perspective view of a con:Eiguration of the present system used as a protection structure from wind or sun having a slightly slanted roof 158 so as not to hold rain on top. The angle used to connect t'wo tubular :members 12 together to form the slanted roof 158 may be 22 '~ degrees, or other desired angle. The slanted roof 158 is attached to the framework 160 formed by the tubular members 12 by means of stretch cords 162 through grommets 164 in a tarpaulin 165 in a known manner.
Figure 6A is an enlargement of the circled area in Figure 6 showing an enlargement of the parts forming the appropriate angle 166 in Figure 6. Figure 6A shows more clearly the arrangement of the tubular members 12, stabilizing member 14, attaching means 16 in the form of an attaching member 18 which is a bolt and wing nut combination 34.
Referring now to Figure 7 of the drawings there is shown a perspective view of a second applicat:ion of the present tubular member joining system 10 wherein t::he system is used to provide shade or other protection, such a~~ a temporary carport 168 for a ca.r. Joining occurs at four locations 170, 172, 174, and 176 so as to form a two-sided struct=ure or i=ramework 177 having a partially slanted roof 178 on top 180 o:f the framework 177. Then, across the top 180 of the framework 177, a second set of joining 182 and 184 occurs at an ang:ie to form the triangular section 186 of the roof :i7E3. The roo:E 178 of Figure 7 is attached to the framework 160 formed by 1=he tubular members 12 by means of stretch cords 162 through grommets 164 in a tarpaulin 165 in a known manner similar to Figure 6.
Figure 7A is an enlargement of the circ_ied area in Figure 7, similar to Figure 6A, showing an enlargement of the parts forming the appropriate ang=Le 188 in Figure 7. Figure 7A
shows more clearly the arrangement of the 'tubular members 12, stabilizing member 14, attaching means 16 -in the form of an attaching member 18 which is a bolt and wing nut combination 34.
Referring now to Figure 8 of the draw=ings there is shown a perspective view of a t=hird application of the pre~~ent tubular member joining system 10 wherein t=he system i.s used to provide a temporary protective structure or framework: 187 with a portion positioned directly atop a van 1.88 or other vehicle.
The application as shown in Figure 8 using the present: tubular member joining system 10 for a temporary structure or framework 187 can be used, for example, b:y a van owner who uses his vehicle to transport things to sell, such a;s a local fruit vendor. Another use for the appl.ic<~tion shown i.n Figure 8 would be a camper who sets up a temporary shade fo:r a patio when parked at a camping site. The roof _190 of Figure 8 is attached to the framework 187 formed by the tubular members 12 by means of stretch cords 162 through grommets 164 in a tarpaulin 165 known manner similar to Figures 6 and '7.
Figure 8A is an enlargement of the circled area in Figure 8, similar to Figures 6A and 7A, showing an enlargement of the parts forming the appropriate angle 192 in Figure 8. Figure 8A shows more clearly the arrangement of t=:he tubular members 12, stabilizing member 14, attaching mean's 15 in the form of an attaching member 18 which is a bolt and wing nut combination 34.
To form the configuration as shown in Figure 8, two vertically placed tubular members 12 of a~>propriate height approximating the height of a van 188 are ea<vh attached to a horizontally placed tubular member 12, su~~h that the vertically placed tubular members 12 are at a 90 degree angle to the horizontally placed tubular member 12. One of two stabilizing members 14 are each positioned between the tubular members 12 with holes 28 and grooves 26 appropriately lined up as seen in Figure 8A. Two more tubular members 196 and 198 are then attached to the top end 194 of the vertically positioned tubular members 200 and 202 and tine tubular members 12 are connected to each other as described herein with stabilizing members 14 positioned sandwiched between. Two further tubular members 204 and 206 are then attached to the tubular members 196 and 198 extending from the vertically positioned members 200 and 202, such that a second horizontally positioned tubular member 208 can be positioned between the last described tubular members 204 and 206 to provide a framework 187 as seen in Figure 8. The second horizontally positioned tubular member :?0E3 would be placed on the top 210 of a van 188 or other vehic_Le to make the framework 187 as shown in Figure 8.
Referring now to Figure 9 there is shown a perspective ~5 view of a fourth application of the present tubular member joining system 10 wherein the system is used to provide a rain water collection system 209. In Figure 9 it can be seen that tubular members 12 of approximately the same height are attached to each other at ninety-degree angles to therefore form a generally boxed shaped structure 210. The boxed shaped structure 210 can easily have a tarpaulin 165 positioned loosely across its top 212 and attached with stretch cords 162 or other means positioned through a grommet 164 in the tarpaulin 165 in a known manner. If the tarpaulin 165 is slightly larger than the top 212 of the box shaped structure 210, the tarpaulin 165 will bow or sag in its centra:L portion 214, thereby generally forming an upside down umbrella sort of configuration. Attached generally in the central portion 214 of the tarpaulin 165 is pos:Ltioned a downspout 216. A mesh portion 218 of the downspoui~ 216 protrude~~ above the upper surface 220 of the tarpaulin 165 and servers too keep 7_eaves from entering the downspout 216 area. As .rain falls it is directed onto the upper surface 220 of t;he tarpaulin 165 and by natural f_Low toward the naturally occurring cavity of the central portion 214 of the tarpaulin 165 and down thc~
downspout 216 into piping 222 and elbow joints 223 to be carried also by natural flow into a holding device 229 such as a bucket 226 or other water holding container. The mesh portion 218 of the downspout 216 is formed by flexible-plastic that is collapsible for packing and moving the rain collection system 209. The mesh portion 218 of the downspout 21E> is attached to the solid piping 222 below the lower surface 230 of the tarpaulin 165 by means of thumb screws 231 pushed through the lower end 232 of the mesh portion 218 and into a hole 233 in a fitting 234, as seen most clearly in Figure 10.
A hole 235 that corresponds to hole 233 or~ the fitting 234 is positioned t:hrough a coupling 236 for an elbow joint 223, as seen most c7_early in Figure 10. The thumbscrew 231 is then secured with a bolt 238 within the coupling 236, as seen also in Figure 10.
Figure 9A is an enlargement of the circled area in Figure 9, similar t:o Figures 6A, iA and 8A, ShOW1_T~lg an enlargement of the parts forming the appropriate angle 229 in Figure 9.
Figure 9A shows more clearly the arrangement of the tubular 2 '7 members 12, stabilizing member 14, attaching means 16 in the form of an attaching member 18 which is a bolt and wing nut combination 34.
Referring now to Figure 10 of the drawings, there is shown an exploded view of the downspout 216 area of 'the fourth application of the present tubular member joining system 10 whereby water is removed from the structure 210 seen in Figure 9. Figure 10 shows in more detail the downspout 216 area of the application shown in Figure 9. The flexible plastic mesh 228 forms the caged portion 218 of the downspout 216. The cylindrical plastic mesh 228 is held atop the fitting 234 positioned above the upper Surface 220 of the tarpau:Lin 165 by means of thumb screws 231 and a bolt 23E3, as seen in Figure 10. The fitting 234 is standard plumbing type fitting that has notches 240 to provide flow of water i_rom the lowest level 242 of the cavity 244 at the central port.i_on 214 of i~he tarpaulin 165, as seen in F=figures 9 and 10. Another thumb screw 231 fits through the upper fitting 2:34 above the upper surface 220 of the tarpaulin 165 and a lower fitting 246 below the lower surface 230 of the tarpaulin 165 as seen in Figures 9 and 10. The lower fitting 246 fits within a combination coupling and clamp 236 positioned over the elbow joint. 223, the elbow joint 223 being connected to conventional plumbing piping 222. The combination coupling and clamp 236 allows the elbow joint 223 to be turned in any direction.
Referring now to Figure 11 of the drawings, there is shown a perspective view of a fifth application of t:he present tubular member joining system 10 wherein v~~he tubular members 12 are joined to form generally an open sided, open topped rectangular box shape 248 that holds firewood 250. 'rhe shape 248 of Figure 11, can, of course, be formed in any practical dimensions. Because of the increased stability afforded to the framework 252 by the stabilizing members 14, a hE~avy load of firewood 250 can be held.
Figure 11A is an enlargement of the circled area in Figure 11, similar to Figures 6A, 7A, 8A, and 9A, showing an enlargement of the parts forming the appropriate ang=Le 254 in Figure 11. figure 11A shows more clearly the arrangement of the tubular members 12, stabilizing member L4, attaching means 16 in the foam of an attaching member 18 wh:ic:h is a bolt and 2~
wing nut combination 34.
It can be seen from the above described examples that there can be achieved by the present joining system :for tubular members a multiplicity of angularities and combined angularities can be juxtaposed. Any proposed angularity or combination of angularities would therefore be within the spirit and scope of the invention.
It can also be seen from the foregoing that many advantages are accomplished by the tubular member joining system 10 of the present invention. A stabilizing member 14 has been provided which is a ring like member having grooves 26 on its top 22 and bottom surface 24 to form the seat for holding a tubular member 12 at one of a p:Lurality of angularities relative to another tubular member 12. Two types of wing nut and petcock wrenches 44 and 82 have also been disclosed.
Two types of jig systems 108 and 136 for holding a tubular member 12 in place while a hole 2s3 is drilled therethrough have also been disclosed. A method of joining tubular members to each other has also been disclosed whereby the stabilizing member 14 is used to attach one tubular member 12 to a second tubular member 12 at a desired angle.
While there has been accomplished advantages by t:he Applicant's invention, nevertheless, variation in the 5 structure of the invention and the arrangement of the various parts are within the spirit and scope of the Applica:nt's invention. The embodiments given have been given only by way of illustration and the Applicant is not to be limited to the embodiments shown and described.
Claims (15)
1. A joining system for tubular members comprising:
a plurality of tubular members;
at least one stabilizing member attached to at least two tubular members;
at least one attaching member for attaching one of the stabilizing members to the tubular members.
a plurality of tubular members;
at least one stabilizing member attached to at least two tubular members;
at least one attaching member for attaching one of the stabilizing members to the tubular members.
2. A stabilizing member for use in a tubular member joining system comprising:
a .ring shaped member having a top and bottom surface, the top and bottom surfaces each having at least one tubular member engaging groove;
whereby a stabilizing member is attached to at least two tubular members.
a .ring shaped member having a top and bottom surface, the top and bottom surfaces each having at least one tubular member engaging groove;
whereby a stabilizing member is attached to at least two tubular members.
3. The joining system for tubular members as defined in claim 1 wherein:
the tubular members are joined to form a structure.
the tubular members are joined to form a structure.
4. A first wing nut wrench comprising:
a channel having a lower surface and a first and second side, the lower surface having at least one bolt engaging hole therethrough;
whereby the first and second sides form a wing nut engaging slot.
a channel having a lower surface and a first and second side, the lower surface having at least one bolt engaging hole therethrough;
whereby the first and second sides form a wing nut engaging slot.
5. The first wing nut wrench as defined in claim 4 wherein there is a plurality of nested channels having varying size holes and slots therein.
6. A petcock wrench comprising:
a channel having a lower surface and a first and second side, the lower surface having at least one bolt engaging hold therethrough and, the first and second sides each having at least one petcock engaging slot therethrough.
a channel having a lower surface and a first and second side, the lower surface having at least one bolt engaging hold therethrough and, the first and second sides each having at least one petcock engaging slot therethrough.
7. The petcock wrench is defined in claim 6 wherein there is a plurality of nested channels having varying size holes and slots therein.
8. A second wing nut wrench formed from a deep socket of a socket wrench, the socket wrench having a handle, the second wing nut wrench comprising:
a cylindrical member having a first hex shaped opening with a slot therethrough, and a second square shaped opening;
whereby the slot in the hex shaped opening receives a wing nut and the square shaped opening receives the handle of the socket wrench.
a cylindrical member having a first hex shaped opening with a slot therethrough, and a second square shaped opening;
whereby the slot in the hex shaped opening receives a wing nut and the square shaped opening receives the handle of the socket wrench.
9. A first jig system for holding a tubular member in place comprising:
an upper plate;
a lower plate attached to the upper plate, the lower plate having a tubular member receiving groove; and at least one attaching member for attaching the lower plate to the upper plate.
an upper plate;
a lower plate attached to the upper plate, the lower plate having a tubular member receiving groove; and at least one attaching member for attaching the lower plate to the upper plate.
10. A second jig system for holding a tubular member in place comprising:
an upper plate having at least one bolt engaging hole therethrough and having at least one drilling hole positioned therethrough;
a lower plate attached to the upper plate and having at least one drilling hole positioned therethrough;
an attaching member for attaching the upper plate to the lower plate and to provide a distance between the upper plate and the lower plate equal to substantially slightly larger than the diameter of a tubular member to thereby hold the tubular member in place.
an upper plate having at least one bolt engaging hole therethrough and having at least one drilling hole positioned therethrough;
a lower plate attached to the upper plate and having at least one drilling hole positioned therethrough;
an attaching member for attaching the upper plate to the lower plate and to provide a distance between the upper plate and the lower plate equal to substantially slightly larger than the diameter of a tubular member to thereby hold the tubular member in place.
11. A rain water collection system comprising;
a plurality of tubular members, each tubular member being approximately the same height as all other tubular members;
a plurality of stabilizing members, each stabilizing member being attached to each tubular member;
a plurality of attaching members, for attaching a stabilizing member to a tubular member each tubular member being attached to one other tubular member at approximately a ninety degree angle thereby forming a structure, the structure having a top;
a cover having a central portion and an underside, the cover being removably attached to the top of the structure and having a discharge opening in its central portion;
a downspout removably attached to the underside of the cover at its central portion;
piping having a first and second ends, the piping removably attached to the downspout at its first end;
whereby water by natural flow, flows toward the central portion of the cover, down into the downspout and piping to be collected at the second end of the piping.
a plurality of tubular members, each tubular member being approximately the same height as all other tubular members;
a plurality of stabilizing members, each stabilizing member being attached to each tubular member;
a plurality of attaching members, for attaching a stabilizing member to a tubular member each tubular member being attached to one other tubular member at approximately a ninety degree angle thereby forming a structure, the structure having a top;
a cover having a central portion and an underside, the cover being removably attached to the top of the structure and having a discharge opening in its central portion;
a downspout removably attached to the underside of the cover at its central portion;
piping having a first and second ends, the piping removably attached to the downspout at its first end;
whereby water by natural flow, flows toward the central portion of the cover, down into the downspout and piping to be collected at the second end of the piping.
12. A method for joining tubular members comprising:
providing a plurality of tubular member;
providing at least one stabilizing member attached to at least two tubular members;
providing at least one attaching member;
attaching one of the stabilizing members to the tubular members using an attaching member.
providing a plurality of tubular member;
providing at least one stabilizing member attached to at least two tubular members;
providing at least one attaching member;
attaching one of the stabilizing members to the tubular members using an attaching member.
13. The method for joining tubular members as defined in claim 12 wherein:
the tubular members are joined to form a structure.
the tubular members are joined to form a structure.
14. The method for joining tubular members as defined in claim 12 wherein:
the stabilizing member is a ring shaped member having a top and bottom surface, the top and bottom surfaces each having at least one tubular member engaging groove;
thereby a stabilizing member is attached to at least two tubular members.
the stabilizing member is a ring shaped member having a top and bottom surface, the top and bottom surfaces each having at least one tubular member engaging groove;
thereby a stabilizing member is attached to at least two tubular members.
15. A method for collecting rain water comprising the steps of:
providing a plurality of tubular members, each tubular member being approximately the same height as all other tubular members;
providing a plurality of of stabilizing members each stabilizing member being attached to each tubular member;
providing a plurality of attacking members for attaching a stabilizing member to a tubular member, each tubular member being attached to one other tubular member at approximately a ninety degree angle thereby forming a structure, the structure having a top;
providing a cover having a central portion and an underside, the cover being removably attached to the top of the structure and having a discharge opening in its central portion;
providing a downspout removably attached to the underside of the cover at its' central portion;
providing piping having a first and second ends, the piping removably attached to the downspout at its first end;
whereby water by natural flow, flows toward the central portion of the cover, down into the downspout and piping to be collected at the second end of the piping.
providing a plurality of tubular members, each tubular member being approximately the same height as all other tubular members;
providing a plurality of of stabilizing members each stabilizing member being attached to each tubular member;
providing a plurality of attacking members for attaching a stabilizing member to a tubular member, each tubular member being attached to one other tubular member at approximately a ninety degree angle thereby forming a structure, the structure having a top;
providing a cover having a central portion and an underside, the cover being removably attached to the top of the structure and having a discharge opening in its central portion;
providing a downspout removably attached to the underside of the cover at its' central portion;
providing piping having a first and second ends, the piping removably attached to the downspout at its first end;
whereby water by natural flow, flows toward the central portion of the cover, down into the downspout and piping to be collected at the second end of the piping.
Priority Applications (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US09/877,580 US20020069903A1 (en) | 2000-07-12 | 2001-06-06 | Joining system for tubular members |
| CA002350898A CA2350898A1 (en) | 2000-07-12 | 2001-06-18 | Joining system for tubular members |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US21759100P | 2000-07-12 | 2000-07-12 | |
| US09/877,580 US20020069903A1 (en) | 2000-07-12 | 2001-06-06 | Joining system for tubular members |
| CA002350898A CA2350898A1 (en) | 2000-07-12 | 2001-06-18 | Joining system for tubular members |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2350898A1 true CA2350898A1 (en) | 2002-12-18 |
Family
ID=27171566
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002350898A Abandoned CA2350898A1 (en) | 2000-07-12 | 2001-06-18 | Joining system for tubular members |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US20020069903A1 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2350898A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (8)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US20040065025A1 (en) * | 2001-07-10 | 2004-04-08 | Steven Durham | Energy generating shelter system and method |
| AU2006225265B2 (en) * | 2005-10-19 | 2011-12-01 | Brett Mckenna | Apparatus for use in collecting rainwater |
| DE102011110119A1 (en) * | 2011-08-15 | 2013-02-21 | Wilhelm Weil | Protection device for protecting object e.g. goods under water dripping ceiling in storage hall, has plastic material portion that is connected with liquid discharging portion which is arranged at specific location of recess |
| CN102943503A (en) * | 2012-12-07 | 2013-02-27 | 盛广 | Desert rainwater harvesting water storage trickle irrigation device |
| CN103240211A (en) * | 2012-12-10 | 2013-08-14 | 谭志银 | Water-saving component of shower device |
| AU2015101898A4 (en) * | 2014-12-07 | 2017-08-10 | Samit Choksi | System for solar and rainwater harvesting in open spaces |
| FR3072108B1 (en) * | 2017-10-06 | 2021-12-17 | Zingerle Ag | Folding tent |
| CN115067129B (en) * | 2022-07-05 | 2023-06-16 | 济南绿园园林建设有限公司 | Garden cohesive type water storage and drainage device and method for use in rainstorm days |
-
2001
- 2001-06-06 US US09/877,580 patent/US20020069903A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2001-06-18 CA CA002350898A patent/CA2350898A1/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| US20020069903A1 (en) | 2002-06-13 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |