CA2487531A1 - Mating hinge for a portable structure - Google Patents
Mating hinge for a portable structure Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2487531A1 CA2487531A1 CA002487531A CA2487531A CA2487531A1 CA 2487531 A1 CA2487531 A1 CA 2487531A1 CA 002487531 A CA002487531 A CA 002487531A CA 2487531 A CA2487531 A CA 2487531A CA 2487531 A1 CA2487531 A1 CA 2487531A1
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- hinge
- rods
- support rod
- hinge device
- support
- 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
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 title claims description 14
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000004809 Teflon Substances 0.000 claims 2
- 229920006362 Teflon® Polymers 0.000 claims 2
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 claims 2
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 abstract description 4
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 abstract description 3
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 18
- 239000005060 rubber Substances 0.000 description 8
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 5
- 239000002253 acid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000006978 adaptation Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000011152 fibreglass Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 235000018734 Sambucus australis Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 244000180577 Sambucus australis Species 0.000 description 1
- 241000812633 Varicus Species 0.000 description 1
- 208000027418 Wounds and injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000006378 damage Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003292 glue Substances 0.000 description 1
- 208000014674 injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000414 obstructive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
- E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
- E04H15/32—Parts, components, construction details, accessories, interior equipment, specially adapted for tents, e.g. guy-line equipment, skirts, thresholds
- E04H15/34—Supporting means, e.g. frames
- E04H15/44—Supporting means, e.g. frames collapsible, e.g. breakdown type
- E04H15/48—Supporting means, e.g. frames collapsible, e.g. breakdown type foldable, i.e. having pivoted or hinged means
-
- 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
- Y10T403/7001—Crossed rods
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Tents Or Canopies (AREA)
Abstract
The present invention relates generally to a device and method to secure spherical rod ends that are used to support a portable structure, such as a tent. These improved interconnection means, which are generally hinges, are adapted to allow limited movement of the rods by way of a ball and socket type connection, thereby facilitating installation of the portable structure
Description
MATING HINGE FOR A PORTABLE STRUCTURE
S FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to portable support structures such as tents.
More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is a hinge that is adapted for interconnection to support rods of portable tents.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Portable tents are generally constructed of a fabric material supported by a plurality of support structures, such as rods or poles. Devices and methods for connecting a plurality of rods are well known. However, there are many drawbacks to traditional support connection devices. More specifically, these devises are often difficult to install, are too heavy, are brittle, ete. In addition, many devices used to connect a plurality of rods tend to become dislodged from side walls of the tent, thus not providing sufficient lateral support. Thus, there is a long felt need in the field ef portable support structure construction to provide a device and method that facilitates quick and efficient erection of the structure, and which is du.-able enough to be used in severe wind and inclement weather.
SIIMiVL~IRT OF THE INVENTION
It is thus one aspect of the present invention to provide a hinge adapted to receive and support polls or rods that are used as the primary suppon of a portable tent structure.
More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is provided with a plurality of hinge members, each hin~>e member having a plurality of apertures that are adapted to receive and seat the end of a support rod. Generally, portabe structures are constructed from an assemblage of fabric wall; that are supported by a skeleton-like support structure.
This support structure often: includes a plurality of interconnected rods, or poles, that provide locations thereon to interconnect to the fabric walls. In one embodiment of the present invention, the rods include spherical ends that are adapted to interconnect with the corners of the fabric walls and a center hub system to stretch the fabric and provide a wall that is capable of withstanding shear loads. More specifically, the rods are interconnected to a wall-centered hab, or node, thus defining a crossed conf?~guration wherein the opposite ends of the rods are interconnected to corners of the fabric wall to create a taut wall. The rods are interconnected to each other in one embodiment of the present invention by hinge members that are adapted to receive and secure the rod's spherical ends. Thus, by attaching a plurality of fabric walls, a three-dimensional structure is formed, wherein the roof thereof is supported by rods that interconnect the rod ends at the corners of the fabric walls.
It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a hinge assembly that is easily installed, thus decreasing the time it takes to erect the portable structure. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention employs hinge members that receive at least two rod ends, wherein a second similar hinge is interconnected thereto. In addition, a cap member is interconnected to the hinge :ne.mbers, wherein the rod's spherical ends are prevented fiom becoming disconnected from the hinge. The hinges employ seating locations for the rod ends that allow the rods to ungulate, thus facilitating installation. The other ends of the rods are interconnected to the corners of the wall with fabric sleeves or other means. Finally, the hinge members are moved into place, generally in the center of the Fabric wall, and the hinge asseno~ly i;:
intarconnected to the wall, for example with a bolt. Upon interconnection, the rods how slightly thus stressing the fabric and creating a taut wall.
It is yet another aspect of the p=esent invention to provide a hinge system that is made of common materials, and is thus less expensive to manufacture. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is constructed of cast or machined material, such as aluminum. In addition, the rods of one embodiment of the invention are constructed of fiberglass wherein the spherical end pieces are interconnected with glue, for example.
Thus, it is an aspect of the present invention o provide a support rod interconnection system for use with a portable structure, the support rods having spherical ball ends interconnected thereto., comprising:
a first hinge of a generally rectangular shape, comprising;:
a socket having ;~ surface for engagement with a spherical ball end, an upper opening providing access to sai~a socket, said upper opening begin equal to or greater than the diameter aFthe spherical ball end, a side opening providing access to said socket, acid side opening being less than the diameter of the spherical ball end;
a second hinge of a generally rectangular shape for interconnection with said first hinge, comprising:
a socket having a surface for engagement with a spherical ball end, an upper opening providing access to said socket, said upper opening being equal to or greater than the diameter of the spherical ball end, a side opening providing access to said socket, acid side opening being less than the diameter of the spherical ball end; and wherein said first hinge ~s adapted to receive and rotatably secure the ball ends of at least two rods and said second hinge is adapted to receive and rotatably secure the ball ends of at least two rods, all rods having opposite ends being secured to a wall of the portable structure to form a semi ridged structure.
The Summary of the invention is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full e.;tent and scope of the present invention.
The present invention is set forth in varicus levels of detail in the Summary of the Invention as well as in the attached drawings and the Detailed Description of the Invention and no limitation as to the scope of the present invention is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary of tha Invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DR~'VvIN(~S
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention an:I together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of these inventions.
Fig. 1 is a perspective vie« of a tent that employs orrf: embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 2 is a top elevation view of a hinge of the present i wention;
Fig. 3 is a front elevation view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Fig.
S FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to portable support structures such as tents.
More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is a hinge that is adapted for interconnection to support rods of portable tents.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Portable tents are generally constructed of a fabric material supported by a plurality of support structures, such as rods or poles. Devices and methods for connecting a plurality of rods are well known. However, there are many drawbacks to traditional support connection devices. More specifically, these devises are often difficult to install, are too heavy, are brittle, ete. In addition, many devices used to connect a plurality of rods tend to become dislodged from side walls of the tent, thus not providing sufficient lateral support. Thus, there is a long felt need in the field ef portable support structure construction to provide a device and method that facilitates quick and efficient erection of the structure, and which is du.-able enough to be used in severe wind and inclement weather.
SIIMiVL~IRT OF THE INVENTION
It is thus one aspect of the present invention to provide a hinge adapted to receive and support polls or rods that are used as the primary suppon of a portable tent structure.
More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is provided with a plurality of hinge members, each hin~>e member having a plurality of apertures that are adapted to receive and seat the end of a support rod. Generally, portabe structures are constructed from an assemblage of fabric wall; that are supported by a skeleton-like support structure.
This support structure often: includes a plurality of interconnected rods, or poles, that provide locations thereon to interconnect to the fabric walls. In one embodiment of the present invention, the rods include spherical ends that are adapted to interconnect with the corners of the fabric walls and a center hub system to stretch the fabric and provide a wall that is capable of withstanding shear loads. More specifically, the rods are interconnected to a wall-centered hab, or node, thus defining a crossed conf?~guration wherein the opposite ends of the rods are interconnected to corners of the fabric wall to create a taut wall. The rods are interconnected to each other in one embodiment of the present invention by hinge members that are adapted to receive and secure the rod's spherical ends. Thus, by attaching a plurality of fabric walls, a three-dimensional structure is formed, wherein the roof thereof is supported by rods that interconnect the rod ends at the corners of the fabric walls.
It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a hinge assembly that is easily installed, thus decreasing the time it takes to erect the portable structure. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention employs hinge members that receive at least two rod ends, wherein a second similar hinge is interconnected thereto. In addition, a cap member is interconnected to the hinge :ne.mbers, wherein the rod's spherical ends are prevented fiom becoming disconnected from the hinge. The hinges employ seating locations for the rod ends that allow the rods to ungulate, thus facilitating installation. The other ends of the rods are interconnected to the corners of the wall with fabric sleeves or other means. Finally, the hinge members are moved into place, generally in the center of the Fabric wall, and the hinge asseno~ly i;:
intarconnected to the wall, for example with a bolt. Upon interconnection, the rods how slightly thus stressing the fabric and creating a taut wall.
It is yet another aspect of the p=esent invention to provide a hinge system that is made of common materials, and is thus less expensive to manufacture. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is constructed of cast or machined material, such as aluminum. In addition, the rods of one embodiment of the invention are constructed of fiberglass wherein the spherical end pieces are interconnected with glue, for example.
Thus, it is an aspect of the present invention o provide a support rod interconnection system for use with a portable structure, the support rods having spherical ball ends interconnected thereto., comprising:
a first hinge of a generally rectangular shape, comprising;:
a socket having ;~ surface for engagement with a spherical ball end, an upper opening providing access to sai~a socket, said upper opening begin equal to or greater than the diameter aFthe spherical ball end, a side opening providing access to said socket, acid side opening being less than the diameter of the spherical ball end;
a second hinge of a generally rectangular shape for interconnection with said first hinge, comprising:
a socket having a surface for engagement with a spherical ball end, an upper opening providing access to said socket, said upper opening being equal to or greater than the diameter of the spherical ball end, a side opening providing access to said socket, acid side opening being less than the diameter of the spherical ball end; and wherein said first hinge ~s adapted to receive and rotatably secure the ball ends of at least two rods and said second hinge is adapted to receive and rotatably secure the ball ends of at least two rods, all rods having opposite ends being secured to a wall of the portable structure to form a semi ridged structure.
The Summary of the invention is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full e.;tent and scope of the present invention.
The present invention is set forth in varicus levels of detail in the Summary of the Invention as well as in the attached drawings and the Detailed Description of the Invention and no limitation as to the scope of the present invention is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary of tha Invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DR~'VvIN(~S
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention an:I together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of these inventions.
Fig. 1 is a perspective vie« of a tent that employs orrf: embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 2 is a top elevation view of a hinge of the present i wention;
Fig. 3 is a front elevation view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Fig.
2;
Fig. 4 is a bottom plan view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Fig.
2;
Fig. 5 is a left-cross section view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Fig. l;
Fig. 6 is a top plan view of another embodiment of the hinge of the present invention;
Fig. 7 is a front elevation view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Fig.
6;
Fig. 8 is a bottom plan view of the embodiment of the; invention shown in Fig.
6;
Fig. 9 is a left cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the present invention shown in Fig. 6;
Fig. 10 is a top plan view of two interconnected hinges of the present invention;
Fig. 11 is a top plan view of two padded interconnected hinges with rods 1 S emanating therefrom;
Fig. 12 is a front elevatian view of a pad of one ernboaiment of the present invention;
Fig. 13 is a perspective view showing the hinges -~f one embodiment of the present invention interconnected to a tent;
Fig. 14 is an exploded perspective view showing he hinges interconnected to a tent; and Fig. 15 is a front elevation view of one embodiment of the present invention interconnected to a tent.
To assist in the understanding of the present invention the following list of components and associated numbering found in the drawings is provided herein:
# Com,~onenr;
2 Rod S 4 First hinge 6 Second hinge 8 Socket 10 Ball seat 12 Ball end 14 Tent 16 Bolt 20 Wall 22A Rubber washer 22B Washer 24A Cap nut 24B Lock nut 26 Tent fabric 28 Upper openings 30 Rubber grommet 32 Pad 34 Side opening 36 Stop 38 Second hinge contact surface 40 Mating protrusion 42 Countersink apetvure 44 Cover 48 .Aperture 50 Recess 52 Sowed rod 54 Wall comer 56 End position of rod It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understandi;og of the invention or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omittc;c'. It sho zld be understood, of course, that the invention is -:lot necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.
DE'fAIL;ED DESCRIPTION
Referring now to Figs. 1-i '~, one embodiment of th;, present invention is shown that is adapted to receive and support a plurality of portable structure support rods 2.
More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention comprises a combination of a first hinge 4, and a second hinge 6, each hinge including a phrrality of sockets 8. The sockets $ may vary in diameter, such that a generally spherical ball seat 10 is provided, wherein spherical endpoints 12 of tyre support rods 2 are rotatabiy secured.
Support rods 2 are generally fabricated of a flexible material with an in:erconnected end ball 12.
Preferably, the ball end 12 is consrruct~d of a metallic rrraterial, but other materials known in the art may be used such as rubber, fiberglass, plastic, etc. The hinge mechanism is interconnected to the inside of a portable structure 14, such as a tent, by a bolt 16, wherein the bolt 16 is threaded Through the fast hinge 4, the second hinge 6, and the fabric wall 20. A plurality of washers 22 and noes 24 are hermsed to secure the system together to prevent separation of the tent fabric 26 from the hinge assembly.
Generally, hinge assemblies of one embodiment of the present invention are incorporated onto each wall 20 and the roof of a tent 14.
In order to construct a tent 14 or other structure, a user initially selects rods 2 of proper length. The rod 2 is threaded through an upper opening 28 on the top surface of the hinge. The ball end 12 of the rod 2 is then rotatably se~;ur~:d in the socket 8 by the ball seat 10. Once seated, the rod 2 cannot be pulled from the hinge and is able to rotate axially or tilt at an angle with respect to the top and side surfaces of the hinge. Next, a second rod with a spherical end l~ is placed in a second sor:ket 8 of the hinge. After both mating hinges are operably interconnectf;d to th~i: respective rods they are interconnected. The other ends o f the rods are attached to the four corners of the tent wall 20. The hinges are pushed into place adjacent to the wall 20, thereby deflecting the rods and stretching the tent w2.11 20 and imparting rigidity thereto. Once the tent walls 20 are in place, the bolt 16 is threaded through a rubber washer 22,x,. or_ the outside of the tent fabric 26, through a rubber grormnet ,0 that is incorporated in the tent fabric 26, and then through the hinge. A rubber pad 32 is interconnected to the bolt 16 with a washer 22B, a lock nut 24B, and a cap nut 24.4. 'Tl:e cap nut 24A and the rubber pad 32 will protect individuals inside the tent 14 from injury from contact with a sharp fastener, for example.
It is important to note that :he arrangement of the hinge and rubber pad 32 prevent the spherical ends 12 from lecorr_ing dislodged from the sockets 8 of the hinges. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is assembled wherein the second hinge 6 prevents the spherical ends t2 of the rods 2 of the first hinge 4 from being displaced from the sockets 8 of the first hinge 4 because it partially closes the upper opening 28 that provides access to the socket 8. The pad 32 performs the same function with respect to the second hinge E. This feature makes tlue system easy to install because the user does not have to bc; concerned with the spherical ends 12 becoming dislodged during installation.
It is important to note that the system as shown herein rnay be constructed to accommodate any nwnber of rods 12. More specifically, a hinge with more than two sockets may be provided such that a plurality of rods may h-a interconnected to a single hinge. Alternatively, one skilled i-r-t the art Twill appreciate treat any number of hinges may be interconnected to accomrnodate a plurality of rods.
Referring now to Fig. 1, one embodiment of the present invention is shown interconnected to a flexible supp~art structure, such as a tent 14. In this example, a tent 14 is comprised of at least three walls 20 an.3 a roof section. 'i he walls 20 are supported g by at least four rods 2 that intersect at a node at about the :enter of each wall 20. Each rod 2 also interconnects with a cc>rner of :he wall 20 wherein a second node is formed.
These semi-rigid structures are used commonly in the utility repair industry where portable structures are required to provide protection from the elements.
Referring now to Figs. ~'~ 5, one embodiment of a first hinge 4 is shown. More specifically, a first hinge 4 of one ern_ bodiment of the pres~:nt invention is shown that includes a generally rectangular body with at least W o sockas 8 machined therein. The sockets include a ledge, or ball seat 10, machined therein For receipt of the ball end of the rod. The rods are threaded t'~rough the upper openings 28 that provide access to the sockets 8. Once the ball end of tl-;e rod contacts the ball seat 10, it is transitionally fixed.
The user then rotates the rod upwards until it comes in contact ~ ith the body of the hinge 4. Side openings 34 are provided in the ends of the first hinge 4 wherein the width thereof is less than the diameter of th~: end ball. Once the user rotates the rod upwards in a position adjacent to a stop .36 provided on the hinge, the side opening 34 will prevent motion of the ball out of the first hinge 4. A second hirgv contact surface 38 is also provided, which will be de-sc:ribed in further detail below. Further, a mating protrusion 40 is provided on the upper surface of the first hinge 4 that is cle-~igned for engagement into a countersink aperture of the seco.~~cl hinge 6, which will be described in further detail below.
Referring now to Figs. 6-~), a second hinge 6 is shown that is similar to the first hinge described above. The second hinge 6 includes a;-~ aperture with a countersink 42 for engagement with the mating protrusion of the first hinge. 'This interface allows the two hinges to rotate and provides a more rob~.rst node.
Referring now to Figs. 10-12.. the engagement of a ~irsi hinge 4 and a second hinge 6 is shown. Here, the second hinge 6 rests on a second hinge contact surface 38 of the first hinge 4 to form a cross. 'i'he mating protrusion of the first hinge 4 is engaged in the countersunk aperture of the second hinge 6. One skilled i:1 the art will appreciate that the contact surface 38 and mating protrusion are not rr~cessarily required, and devices which omit these features are within the scope of the invention. T he second hinge contact surface 38 gives the entire system a smaller profile, thus less obstructive to the user. The protrusion and countersunk interconnection also allows the mating hinges to selectively rotate. The mating protrusion also provides an alignment r_ ea.ns to ensure that the hinges are placed in the proper location.
With specific reference nov- to Fig. 11, the pad 32 may be added to the system such that the user is protected from engagements with the inte~rconrecte~d hinges. As also shown herein, the pad 32 inclu3es two covers 44 that generally obstruct the upper openings of the sockets of the second hinge 6, thus preventing the ball ends 12 being removed therefrom. In addition, the pad 32 and the ~yecon~l hinge 6 substantially cover the upper openings that provide access to the sockets of the first hinge 4, also preventing the ball ends 12 from being removed from the sockets. 'Thus, once the system is fully assembled, the ball ends 12 are trapped within the sockets, wherein they are free to rotate but cannot be removed theretiorl.
Referring now to Fig. 13, a perspective view showing one embodiment of the present invention interconnected to a plurality of rods 2 that support a tent is shown.
More specifically, the h.in;es art interconnected to the inside of a tent that includes a plurality of walls 20, each v,~itrl a hole th°rethrough. In opera~ion, the user would initially interconnect the rods 2 to the fiat hinge 4 such that the bail becomes seated within the ball seat. The rods would teen be rotated outwardly. h:ext. the same process would be performed with respect to the second hinge 6, wherein the rods are threaded through the apertures of the sockets and the rotated outwardly. The other ends of the rods would then be interconnected to the ;:on~ers ~>f the wall 20 via sleeves, for example.
The second hinge 6 would be interconnected to the first hinge 4 and pushed towards the tent wall 20, thereby splaying the rods 2 outwardly The deployed rods 3 tend to stretch the fabric of the tent such that a taut surface is provi~3ed. Finally, a ,.lurality of bolts, washers, grommets, etc. would be threaded through the apertures of the hinges and the tent fabric to securely affix the hinge to the tent wall.
While various embodiment of the present invention have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and adaptations of those emb=~diments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it i.s to b~ expressly understoo3 that such modifications adaptations are within the scope a.nd spirit of the present ix;vention, as set forth in the following claims.
il
Fig. 4 is a bottom plan view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Fig.
2;
Fig. 5 is a left-cross section view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Fig. l;
Fig. 6 is a top plan view of another embodiment of the hinge of the present invention;
Fig. 7 is a front elevation view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Fig.
6;
Fig. 8 is a bottom plan view of the embodiment of the; invention shown in Fig.
6;
Fig. 9 is a left cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the present invention shown in Fig. 6;
Fig. 10 is a top plan view of two interconnected hinges of the present invention;
Fig. 11 is a top plan view of two padded interconnected hinges with rods 1 S emanating therefrom;
Fig. 12 is a front elevatian view of a pad of one ernboaiment of the present invention;
Fig. 13 is a perspective view showing the hinges -~f one embodiment of the present invention interconnected to a tent;
Fig. 14 is an exploded perspective view showing he hinges interconnected to a tent; and Fig. 15 is a front elevation view of one embodiment of the present invention interconnected to a tent.
To assist in the understanding of the present invention the following list of components and associated numbering found in the drawings is provided herein:
# Com,~onenr;
2 Rod S 4 First hinge 6 Second hinge 8 Socket 10 Ball seat 12 Ball end 14 Tent 16 Bolt 20 Wall 22A Rubber washer 22B Washer 24A Cap nut 24B Lock nut 26 Tent fabric 28 Upper openings 30 Rubber grommet 32 Pad 34 Side opening 36 Stop 38 Second hinge contact surface 40 Mating protrusion 42 Countersink apetvure 44 Cover 48 .Aperture 50 Recess 52 Sowed rod 54 Wall comer 56 End position of rod It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understandi;og of the invention or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omittc;c'. It sho zld be understood, of course, that the invention is -:lot necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.
DE'fAIL;ED DESCRIPTION
Referring now to Figs. 1-i '~, one embodiment of th;, present invention is shown that is adapted to receive and support a plurality of portable structure support rods 2.
More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention comprises a combination of a first hinge 4, and a second hinge 6, each hinge including a phrrality of sockets 8. The sockets $ may vary in diameter, such that a generally spherical ball seat 10 is provided, wherein spherical endpoints 12 of tyre support rods 2 are rotatabiy secured.
Support rods 2 are generally fabricated of a flexible material with an in:erconnected end ball 12.
Preferably, the ball end 12 is consrruct~d of a metallic rrraterial, but other materials known in the art may be used such as rubber, fiberglass, plastic, etc. The hinge mechanism is interconnected to the inside of a portable structure 14, such as a tent, by a bolt 16, wherein the bolt 16 is threaded Through the fast hinge 4, the second hinge 6, and the fabric wall 20. A plurality of washers 22 and noes 24 are hermsed to secure the system together to prevent separation of the tent fabric 26 from the hinge assembly.
Generally, hinge assemblies of one embodiment of the present invention are incorporated onto each wall 20 and the roof of a tent 14.
In order to construct a tent 14 or other structure, a user initially selects rods 2 of proper length. The rod 2 is threaded through an upper opening 28 on the top surface of the hinge. The ball end 12 of the rod 2 is then rotatably se~;ur~:d in the socket 8 by the ball seat 10. Once seated, the rod 2 cannot be pulled from the hinge and is able to rotate axially or tilt at an angle with respect to the top and side surfaces of the hinge. Next, a second rod with a spherical end l~ is placed in a second sor:ket 8 of the hinge. After both mating hinges are operably interconnectf;d to th~i: respective rods they are interconnected. The other ends o f the rods are attached to the four corners of the tent wall 20. The hinges are pushed into place adjacent to the wall 20, thereby deflecting the rods and stretching the tent w2.11 20 and imparting rigidity thereto. Once the tent walls 20 are in place, the bolt 16 is threaded through a rubber washer 22,x,. or_ the outside of the tent fabric 26, through a rubber grormnet ,0 that is incorporated in the tent fabric 26, and then through the hinge. A rubber pad 32 is interconnected to the bolt 16 with a washer 22B, a lock nut 24B, and a cap nut 24.4. 'Tl:e cap nut 24A and the rubber pad 32 will protect individuals inside the tent 14 from injury from contact with a sharp fastener, for example.
It is important to note that :he arrangement of the hinge and rubber pad 32 prevent the spherical ends 12 from lecorr_ing dislodged from the sockets 8 of the hinges. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is assembled wherein the second hinge 6 prevents the spherical ends t2 of the rods 2 of the first hinge 4 from being displaced from the sockets 8 of the first hinge 4 because it partially closes the upper opening 28 that provides access to the socket 8. The pad 32 performs the same function with respect to the second hinge E. This feature makes tlue system easy to install because the user does not have to bc; concerned with the spherical ends 12 becoming dislodged during installation.
It is important to note that the system as shown herein rnay be constructed to accommodate any nwnber of rods 12. More specifically, a hinge with more than two sockets may be provided such that a plurality of rods may h-a interconnected to a single hinge. Alternatively, one skilled i-r-t the art Twill appreciate treat any number of hinges may be interconnected to accomrnodate a plurality of rods.
Referring now to Fig. 1, one embodiment of the present invention is shown interconnected to a flexible supp~art structure, such as a tent 14. In this example, a tent 14 is comprised of at least three walls 20 an.3 a roof section. 'i he walls 20 are supported g by at least four rods 2 that intersect at a node at about the :enter of each wall 20. Each rod 2 also interconnects with a cc>rner of :he wall 20 wherein a second node is formed.
These semi-rigid structures are used commonly in the utility repair industry where portable structures are required to provide protection from the elements.
Referring now to Figs. ~'~ 5, one embodiment of a first hinge 4 is shown. More specifically, a first hinge 4 of one ern_ bodiment of the pres~:nt invention is shown that includes a generally rectangular body with at least W o sockas 8 machined therein. The sockets include a ledge, or ball seat 10, machined therein For receipt of the ball end of the rod. The rods are threaded t'~rough the upper openings 28 that provide access to the sockets 8. Once the ball end of tl-;e rod contacts the ball seat 10, it is transitionally fixed.
The user then rotates the rod upwards until it comes in contact ~ ith the body of the hinge 4. Side openings 34 are provided in the ends of the first hinge 4 wherein the width thereof is less than the diameter of th~: end ball. Once the user rotates the rod upwards in a position adjacent to a stop .36 provided on the hinge, the side opening 34 will prevent motion of the ball out of the first hinge 4. A second hirgv contact surface 38 is also provided, which will be de-sc:ribed in further detail below. Further, a mating protrusion 40 is provided on the upper surface of the first hinge 4 that is cle-~igned for engagement into a countersink aperture of the seco.~~cl hinge 6, which will be described in further detail below.
Referring now to Figs. 6-~), a second hinge 6 is shown that is similar to the first hinge described above. The second hinge 6 includes a;-~ aperture with a countersink 42 for engagement with the mating protrusion of the first hinge. 'This interface allows the two hinges to rotate and provides a more rob~.rst node.
Referring now to Figs. 10-12.. the engagement of a ~irsi hinge 4 and a second hinge 6 is shown. Here, the second hinge 6 rests on a second hinge contact surface 38 of the first hinge 4 to form a cross. 'i'he mating protrusion of the first hinge 4 is engaged in the countersunk aperture of the second hinge 6. One skilled i:1 the art will appreciate that the contact surface 38 and mating protrusion are not rr~cessarily required, and devices which omit these features are within the scope of the invention. T he second hinge contact surface 38 gives the entire system a smaller profile, thus less obstructive to the user. The protrusion and countersunk interconnection also allows the mating hinges to selectively rotate. The mating protrusion also provides an alignment r_ ea.ns to ensure that the hinges are placed in the proper location.
With specific reference nov- to Fig. 11, the pad 32 may be added to the system such that the user is protected from engagements with the inte~rconrecte~d hinges. As also shown herein, the pad 32 inclu3es two covers 44 that generally obstruct the upper openings of the sockets of the second hinge 6, thus preventing the ball ends 12 being removed therefrom. In addition, the pad 32 and the ~yecon~l hinge 6 substantially cover the upper openings that provide access to the sockets of the first hinge 4, also preventing the ball ends 12 from being removed from the sockets. 'Thus, once the system is fully assembled, the ball ends 12 are trapped within the sockets, wherein they are free to rotate but cannot be removed theretiorl.
Referring now to Fig. 13, a perspective view showing one embodiment of the present invention interconnected to a plurality of rods 2 that support a tent is shown.
More specifically, the h.in;es art interconnected to the inside of a tent that includes a plurality of walls 20, each v,~itrl a hole th°rethrough. In opera~ion, the user would initially interconnect the rods 2 to the fiat hinge 4 such that the bail becomes seated within the ball seat. The rods would teen be rotated outwardly. h:ext. the same process would be performed with respect to the second hinge 6, wherein the rods are threaded through the apertures of the sockets and the rotated outwardly. The other ends of the rods would then be interconnected to the ;:on~ers ~>f the wall 20 via sleeves, for example.
The second hinge 6 would be interconnected to the first hinge 4 and pushed towards the tent wall 20, thereby splaying the rods 2 outwardly The deployed rods 3 tend to stretch the fabric of the tent such that a taut surface is provi~3ed. Finally, a ,.lurality of bolts, washers, grommets, etc. would be threaded through the apertures of the hinges and the tent fabric to securely affix the hinge to the tent wall.
While various embodiment of the present invention have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and adaptations of those emb=~diments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it i.s to b~ expressly understoo3 that such modifications adaptations are within the scope a.nd spirit of the present ix;vention, as set forth in the following claims.
il
Claims (16)
1. A support rod interconnection system adapted for use with a flexible portable structure, the support rods having spherical ball ends interconnected thereto, comprising:
a first hinge of a generally rectangular shape, comprising:
a socket having a surface for engagement with a spherical ball end, an upper opening providing access to said socket, said upper opening having a dimension being equal to or greater than the diameter of the spherical ball end, a side opening providing access to said socket, said side opening having a dimension being less than the diameter of the spherical bail end;
a second hinge of a generally rectangular shape for interconnection with said first hinge, comprising:
a socket having a surface for engagement with a spherical ball end, an upper opening providing access to said socket, said upper opening having a dimension equal to or greater than the diameter of the spherical ball end, a side opening providing access to said socket said side opening having a dimension less than the diameter of the spherical ball end; and wherein said first hinge is adapted to receive and rotatably secure the ball ends of at least two rods and said second hinge is adapted to receive and rotatably secure the ball ends of at least two rods, all rods having opposite ends being secured to a wall of the portable structure to form a semi ridged structure.
a first hinge of a generally rectangular shape, comprising:
a socket having a surface for engagement with a spherical ball end, an upper opening providing access to said socket, said upper opening having a dimension being equal to or greater than the diameter of the spherical ball end, a side opening providing access to said socket, said side opening having a dimension being less than the diameter of the spherical bail end;
a second hinge of a generally rectangular shape for interconnection with said first hinge, comprising:
a socket having a surface for engagement with a spherical ball end, an upper opening providing access to said socket, said upper opening having a dimension equal to or greater than the diameter of the spherical ball end, a side opening providing access to said socket said side opening having a dimension less than the diameter of the spherical ball end; and wherein said first hinge is adapted to receive and rotatably secure the ball ends of at least two rods and said second hinge is adapted to receive and rotatably secure the ball ends of at least two rods, all rods having opposite ends being secured to a wall of the portable structure to form a semi ridged structure.
2. The support rod interconnection system of Claim 1, further comprising a pad interconnected to said second hinge, said pad having a cover that generally obstructs said upper opening of said socket of said second hinge, thereby preventing removal of the rods situated therein.
3. The support rod interconnection system of Claim 1, wherein said first hinge and said second hinge are constructed from at least one of a plastic, a metal, and a teflon.
4. The support rod interconnection system of Claim 1, wherein said first hinge includes at least two recesses to facilitate insertion of the rods into said second hinge.
5. The support rod interconnection system of Claim 1, wherein said first hinge includes a mating protrusion for engagement into a recess integrated into said second hinge.
6. The support rod interconnection system of Claim 1, wherein said first hinge includes a second hinge mating surface located a distance below the top surface thereof.
7. The support rod interconnection system of Claim 1, wherein said surface situated in said socket of each of said first hinge and said second hinge is located at least about fifty percent below the top surface thereof.
8. A support assembly for a portable structure, comprising:
a first hinge device with an aperture that has a seating surface positioned therein;
a second hinge device with an aperture that has a seating surface positioned therein, said second hinge device interconnected to said first hinge device;
a first support rod, having a first end and a second end said first end having a generally spherical shape that is operably interconnected to said first aperture, wherein said first end is in contact with said seating surface of said first aperture and free to rotate;
a second support rod, having a first and a second end, said first end having a generally spherical shape that is operably interconnected to said second hinge, wherein said first end is in contact with said seating surface of said first aperture and free to rotate;
wherein said first support rod and said second support rod are oriented at a predetermined angle to form a portion of a stable skeletal structure adapted to support the portable structure.
a first hinge device with an aperture that has a seating surface positioned therein;
a second hinge device with an aperture that has a seating surface positioned therein, said second hinge device interconnected to said first hinge device;
a first support rod, having a first end and a second end said first end having a generally spherical shape that is operably interconnected to said first aperture, wherein said first end is in contact with said seating surface of said first aperture and free to rotate;
a second support rod, having a first and a second end, said first end having a generally spherical shape that is operably interconnected to said second hinge, wherein said first end is in contact with said seating surface of said first aperture and free to rotate;
wherein said first support rod and said second support rod are oriented at a predetermined angle to form a portion of a stable skeletal structure adapted to support the portable structure.
9. The support assembly of Claim 8, wherein said means for interconnecting said first hinge device to said second hinge device is a selectively removable fastener.
10. The support assembly of Claim 8, wherein said aperture of said first hinge and said aperture of said second hinge have a tapered geometric profile, wherein the diameter thereof reduces from a length that allows said first ends of said first support rod and said second support rod to enter thereto, but be seated on a smaller diameter.
11. The support assembly of Claim 8, further comprising a pad interconnected to said second hinge device, said pad having a cover that generally obstructs said aperture of said second hinge, thereby preventing removal of the support rods situated therein.
12. The support assembly of Claim 8, wherein said first hinge device and said second hinge device are constructed from at least one of a plastic, a metal, and a teflon.
13. The support assembly of Claim 8, wherein said first hinge device includes at least two recesses to facilitate insertion of the rods into said second hinge device.
14. The support assembly of Claim 8, wherein said first hinge device includes a mating protrusion for engagement into a recess integrated into said second hinge device.
15. The support assembly of Claim 8, wherein said first hinge device includes a second hinge device mating surface located a distance below the top surface thereof.
16. The support assembly of Claim 8, wherein said seating surface situated in said aperture of said first hinge device and said second hinge device is located at least about fifty percent below the top surface thereof.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US51953803P | 2003-11-12 | 2003-11-12 | |
| US60/519,538 | 2003-11-12 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2487531A1 true CA2487531A1 (en) | 2005-05-12 |
Family
ID=34573022
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002487531A Abandoned CA2487531A1 (en) | 2003-11-12 | 2004-11-12 | Mating hinge for a portable structure |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US20050100400A1 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2487531A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN103174737B (en) * | 2013-03-11 | 2015-07-15 | 鹭谱达（厦门）户外用品有限公司 | Rotatable connecting device and foldable tent frame |
| US9598876B1 (en) | 2016-02-12 | 2017-03-21 | Clam Corporation | Portable shelters having a hinged side wall |
| US9752345B1 (en) | 2016-02-12 | 2017-09-05 | Clam Corporation | Convertible shelter systems |
| CN206352415U (en) * | 2016-11-21 | 2017-07-25 | 客贝利(厦门)休闲用品有限公司 | A kind of bivouac sheet |
Family Cites Families (25)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3456547A (en) * | 1967-10-02 | 1969-07-22 | Gardner H Strong | Anchoring means |
| US3810482A (en) * | 1972-11-14 | 1974-05-14 | Pelsue T Co | Collapsible tent and frame therefor |
| US3922946A (en) * | 1973-12-26 | 1975-12-02 | Dayton Sure Grip & Shore Co | Split bolt |
| US3941140A (en) * | 1974-10-31 | 1976-03-02 | T. A. Pelsue Company | Foldable free-standing tent, frame and subframe therefor |
| US4026312A (en) * | 1974-10-31 | 1977-05-31 | T.A. Pelsue Company | Subframe for a foldable free-standing tent |
| US4077417A (en) * | 1976-06-03 | 1978-03-07 | T. A. Pelsue Company | Combination tent and frame therefor |
| US4285354A (en) * | 1979-04-17 | 1981-08-25 | T. A. Pelsue Company | Multipurpose tent |
| US4328286A (en) * | 1979-04-26 | 1982-05-04 | The International Nickel Co., Inc. | Electrodeposited palladium, method of preparation and electrical contact made thereby |
| US4293862A (en) * | 1980-06-06 | 1981-10-06 | T. A. Pelsue Company | Canopy assembly for patched radar domes |
| US4450851A (en) * | 1981-12-15 | 1984-05-29 | T. A. Pelsue Company | Free-standing collapsible tent frame structure and hub assembly therefor |
| US4478546A (en) * | 1981-12-21 | 1984-10-23 | Mercer Mark J | Quick insertion and release bolt system |
| US4637748A (en) * | 1985-06-07 | 1987-01-20 | T. A. Pelsue Company | Hub and strut-endcap assembly for tent frame struts |
| IL80661A (en) * | 1985-11-29 | 1991-07-18 | Jaquet Orthopedie | Device for positioning and securing a part having circular regions |
| US4819680A (en) * | 1988-06-09 | 1989-04-11 | T. A. Pelsue Company | Spring-biased tent frame foot |
| USD303622S (en) * | 1988-12-09 | 1989-09-26 | Fulcher Robert A | Hinge for holding tent supporting rods or the like |
| US4941499A (en) * | 1989-04-03 | 1990-07-17 | T. A. Pelsue Company | Ground tent with external frame and improved subframe therefor |
| US4998552A (en) * | 1989-09-12 | 1991-03-12 | T. A. Pelsue Company | Geodetic tent structure |
| US5069572A (en) * | 1990-01-08 | 1991-12-03 | T. A. Pelsue Company | Nub assembly for tent frame struts |
| NL9300324A (en) * | 1993-02-22 | 1994-09-16 | B G Van Der Stigchel B V | Shielding device. |
| US5655340A (en) * | 1994-11-14 | 1997-08-12 | T.A. Pelsue Company | Stable open-sided shelter |
| AU733246B2 (en) * | 1997-09-22 | 2001-05-10 | T.A. Pelsue Company | Tetra tent |
| ES2242268T3 (en) * | 1998-06-09 | 2005-11-01 | Husson International (Societe Anonyme) | UNION KNOT. |
| US6378265B1 (en) * | 1999-03-01 | 2002-04-30 | Matias Konstandt | Space frame construction assembly |
| US6296415B1 (en) * | 1999-04-27 | 2001-10-02 | Double Bull Archery, Llc | CAM type hub and strut for use in portable and semi-permanent structures |
| US6591571B2 (en) * | 2000-02-02 | 2003-07-15 | Skyline Displays, Inc. | Hub assembly for collapsible display panel |
-
2004
- 2004-11-12 CA CA002487531A patent/CA2487531A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2004-11-12 US US10/988,056 patent/US20050100400A1/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| US20050100400A1 (en) | 2005-05-12 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |