GB2414250A

GB2414250A - Canopy sub-frame comprising tensile structure

Info

Publication number: GB2414250A
Application number: GB0510015A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Paul Stuart Beglin; Keith Wilkinson; Paul Stuart Baglin
Original assignee: Tensarc Ltd
Current assignee: Tensarc Ltd
Priority date: 2004-05-17
Filing date: 2005-05-17
Publication date: 2005-11-23
Anticipated expiration: 2025-05-17
Also published as: GB2414250B; GB0510015D0; GB0410989D0

Abstract

A canopy sub-frame comprising at least two supporting masts 6 and at least two mast connectors 5 for locating the masts, and a tension structure 1 supported by the masts. The sub-frame preferably additionally comprises arms 2, 3 which may be telescopic and arm connectors 4. The mast connectors are preferably connected to the sub-frame arms and rotatable about their own axis. Preferably at least one cable connector 7 and two or more tensile canopy connectors are provided for receiving a tension cable 8 and connecting to a tensile canopy 1 respectively. The masts may be telescopic. Anchor connection means 9 may be present to receive restraining means such as a bolt anchor, a threaded bar, a stake or a cable. The sub-frame may be made from steel, aluminium, plastics, timber etc. The sub-frame arms may be located between the masts and tensile canopy (fig 4), or preferably, the masts are located between the sub-frame arms and the tensile canopy.

Description

Canopy sub-frame

Background of the invention

This invention relates to canopies of the type comprising supporting masts and a tension structure. In particular the invention relates to a sub-frame support that defines the geometry for the tension structure. This invention also relates to a sub-frame that provides structural support for a tension structure. In particular, but not exclusively, this invention comprises a sub-frame and this sub-frame is used to define the geometry and provide support for a tension structure in the form of a membrane or a cable net type structure.

Tension structures which derive structural stability from being pretensioned are known and often comprise a stressed membrane material supported at discrete locations by separate masts and tension cables. Support systems based on independent location of anchor points, such as support poles, masts, tension cables, anchors and wall plates are known. However, such systems are designed for large and/or permanent structures and suffer disadvantages; for example, it is difficult and complex .-. : :e . :e:.: . : : to accurately position and install the supports. In the case of erectable structures these supports also often make it complex to install the structure on the supports.

Summary of the invention

It is amongst the objects of the present invention to obviate or mitigate at least one of the foregoing disadvantages.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a canopy sub frame suitable for use with a canopy comprising two or more supporting masts and a tension structure, wherein the canopy sub frame comprises two or more mast connectors suitable for receiving and locating the two or more supporting masts so as to provide the required support for the tension structure.

Most preferably the mast connectors are connected to the canopy sub frame so as to be rotatable about their own axis. Such rotational movement of the mast connectors allows for fine adjustment of the tension experienced by the tension structure.

Preferably the canopy sub frame comprises one or more cable connectors suitable for receiving a tension cable associated with at least one of the two or more mast connectors.

Optionally the canopy sub frame comprises two or more tensile canopy connectors that provide a means for connecting the tensile canopy directly to the sub frame.

e e e e e e e e e e be- e ë e e e e e en- .e.. e Optionally the canopy sub frame further comprises one or more anchor connection means suitable for receiving one or more sub frame restraining devices.

Preferably the canopy sub frame comprises two or more sub frame arms to which the two or more mast connectors are connected. Optionally, at least one of the two or more of the sub frame arms are telescopic.

Optionally the canopy sub frame further comprises one or more arm connectors suitable for connecting the two or more sub frame arms.

Preferably the canopy sub frame is made from a material selected from the group comprising steel, aluminium, plastic and timber.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a canopy comprising two or more supporting masts, a tension structure and a canopy sub frame in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention.

Most preferably the two or more supporting masts are located between the canopy sub frame and the tension structure. Alternatively, the canopy sub frame is located between the two or more supporting masts and the tension structure.

Optionally, at least one of the two or more supporting masts is telescopic.

e e e e e.e e e e A- ..e see Preferably the canopy further comprises one or more sub frame restraining devices. The sub frame restraining devices preferably comprise a device selected from the group comprising a bolt anchor, a threaded bar, a stake and a cable.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a rigid continuous frame capable of connecting and locating parts of the canopy structure, the frame comprising: A rigid frame capable of defining the base geometry of the structure and capable of carrying the loads generated by the tension structure; Connections to a plurality of tension cables; Connections to a plurality of supporting masts; Connections capable of transferring imposed loads to the supporting medium.

Preferably, but not exclusively, the mast connections allow the mast to rotate about one axis during tensioning and preferably but not exclusively the mast connection supports the mast to aid assembly. Alternatively, each mast support may consist of a sleeve or other moment carrying connection such that all or part of the load in the tension cable is carried by the mast.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a semi-rigid continuous frame capable of connecting and locating all parts of the canopy structure, the frame comprising: A semi-rigid frame capable of defining the base geometry of the structure; Connections to a plurality of tension cables; Connections to a plurality of supporting masts; Connections capable of transferring all loads to the supporting medium.

Preferably, but not exclusively, the mast connections allow the mast to rotate about one axis during tensioning * . . . . . e ë ë - * . and preferably but not exclusively the mast connection supports the mast to aid assembly. Alternatively, each mast support may consist of a sleeve or other moment carrying connection such that all or part of the load in the tension cable is carried by the mast.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a rigid or semi-rigid discontinuous frame capable of connecting and locating parts of the canopy structure, the frame comprising: Sub-frame parts capable of defining the base geometry of the structure and capable of carrying the loads generated by the tension structure; Connections to the appropriate tension cables; Connections to all of the supporting masts; Connections capable of transferring all loads to the supporting medium. Specifically, but not exclusively, the sub-frame is used in conjunction with parts of an existing structure predominantly, but not exclusively, a planar structure such as a wall, column or beam.

Preferably, the invention comprises a sub-frame to simply and accurately locate the supports and connections for a membrane or cable net and allow simple installation of the remaining structure. a

6 a e a 6 en I e e e _ I Be a. a.

Specific Description

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is an axonometric of a first embodiment of a canopy sub-frame; Figure 2a is an axonometric of a second embodiment of a canopy sub-frame; Figure 2b is an enlargement an arm of the canopy sub frame of Figure 2a; Figure 3 is an axonometric of a third embodiment of a canopy sub-frame; and Figure 4 is an axonometric of an alternative canopy arrangement comprising the canopy sub-frame.

Figure 1 shows the first embodiment of a canopy sub- frame. The assembled sub-frame determines the geometry for the tensile canopy 1. The canopy sub frame comprises a number of components, namely two sub frame arms, 2 and 3, and an arm connector 4. These components allow the frame to be broken down into smaller parts 2, 3 and 4 to assist with transportation and storage. To construct the canopy sub frame the sub frame arms, 2 and 3, and the arm connectors are bolted together or fastened by other similar means. In the present embodiment these parts are generally rectangular and elongate but could alternatively be cylindrical and are assembled in line.

Mast connections 5, located on each of the sub frame arms, 2 and 3, allow for rotation of support masts 6 of the tensile canopy 1 during tensioning. The mast connections 5 are an integral part of the sub-frame being a c c e e e e c lees c e an e a e e e e e C e e e e e e c em a located on the top surface of the sub frame arms, 2 and 3. Alternatively, the mast connections 5 comprise separate components that are fixed to the sub frame, as appropriate.

Cable connections 7 allow for the simple attachment of tension cables 8. In the present embodiment the cable connections 7 are an integral part of the sub-frame again being located on the top surface of the sub frame arms, 2 and 3. However, they may alternatively comprise separate components that are fixed to the sub frame, as appropriate. It should be noted that stability of for the tensile canopy 1 can be achieved through the employment of a single cable connection 8 in association with each support mast 6. This is a direct result of the orientation given to the support masts 6, when located within the mast connections 5, which cause a balance between the tensions exerted by the edges of the tensile canopy at the apex formed at the top of the support mast 6 and the cable connection 8 itself..

The sub-frame can be made from steel, aluminium, plastic, timber or any other suitable structural material.

When required, base anchor connections 9 can be incorporated that allow for the connection of the sub frame to a sub-frame restraining device. The restraining device is preferably, but not exclusively, a bolt anchor, threaded bar, stakes or cable connected ground anchor.

The anchorage connections 9 may be an integral part of the sub-frame or be fixed to it. In addition the canopy sub frame can be buried so as to fix it in position with the mast connections 5 and the cable connections 7 left ... : :e I:: .e :e I:: : ee. : :..e exposed so that the support masts 6 can be deployed, as and when appropriate.

Figures 2a and 2b show a second embodiment of a canopy sub-frame. The canopy sub frame comprises a number of components, namely four sub frame arms, comprising components 12 and 13, and an arm connector 4. These components allow the frame to be broken down into smaller parts 12, 13 and 4 to assist with transportation and storage. Parts 12, 13 and 4 are generally rectangular and elongate but alternatively could be be cylindrical.

Parts 12, 13 and 4 can also be telescopic, assembled in line or assembled side by side. Mast connections 5, located on each of the sub frame arms 13, allow for rotation of the masts 6 of the tensile canopy 1 during tensioning. The mast connections 5 are an integral part of the sub-frame. Alternatively, the mast connections 5 comprise separate components that are fixed to the sub frame, as appropriate. Single cable connections 7 allow for the simple attachment of tension cables 8 in a similar manner to that described above. In the present embodiment the cable connections 7 are an integral part of the sub-frame. However, they may alternatively comprise separate components that are fixed to the sub frame, as appropriate. Base anchor connections 9 allow for connection of the sub frame arms 13, to a sub-frame restraining device. The restraining device is preferably, but not exclusively, a bolt anchor, threaded bar, stakes or cable connected ground anchor. The anchorage connections 9 may be an integral part of the sub-frame or be fixed to it. The sub-frame can be made from steel, aluminium, plastic, timber or any other suitable structural material. Further stability can .i :e::. ate::. .:.

again be achieved by having the canopy sub frame buried in the ground at the desired location.

Figure 3 shows a third embodiment of the canopy sub- frame. In this embodiment the frame is used in conjunction with parts of an existing structure i.e. an existing wall, although a column or beam may alternatively be employed. In a similar manner, the canopy sub frame comprises a number of components, namely three sub frame arms, 22 and 23, and two arm connectors 4. These components allow the frame to be broken down into smaller parts 22, 23 and 4 to assist with transportation and storage. These parts are generally rectangular and elongate but could also be cylindrical.

Parts 22, 23 and 4 can be telescopic, assembled in line or assembled side by side. Mast connections 5 again allow for rotation of the mast during tensioning. In the described embodiment the mast connections 5 are an integral part of the sub-frame. Alternatively, the mast connections 5 comprise separate components that are fixed to the sub frame, as appropriate. Single cable connections 7 again allow for the simple attachment of tension cables 8. In the present embodiment the cable connections 7 are an integral part of the sub-frame.

However, they may alternatively comprise separate components that are fixed to the sub frame, as appropriate. The base anchor connections 9 allow for connection to a sub-frame restraining device. The restraining device is preferably, but not exclusively, a bolt anchor, threaded bar, stakes or cable connected ground anchor. The anchorage connection 9 may be an integral part of the sub-frame or be fixed to it. The : :.

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sub-frame can be made from steel, aluminium, plastic, timber or any other suitable structural material.

Figure 4 presents an axonometric of an alternative canopy arrangement comprising the canopy sub-frame described above. In this arrangement the canopy sub frame is elevated such that it locates between the support masts 6 and the tensile canopy 1. Tensile canopy connectors 10 are also include on the canopy sub frame so that the tensile canopy 1 can be connected directly to the sub frame and not to the opposite ends of the support masts 6, as described in the previous embodiments. Although not explicitly shown in Figure 4 cable connections 7 can be incorporated so as to allow for the simple attachment of tension cables 8 between the sub frame and the support masts 6.

The described canopy sub frame provides significant advantages for the deployment of canopies. In the first instance the canopy sub frame significantly simplifies the deployment of a canopy and therefore reduces the need for expert knowledge for their construction. As a direct result canopies can be deployed by individuals with only limited knowledge and skill. It is envisaged that the canopy sub frames can be made to a variety of scales but particular application may be found for small scale use for users wishing to erect a canopy in their garden area.

A further advantage of the described canopy sub frame is that they can be produced as an integral component part of a new canopy or sold for retrospective deployment with existing canopies.

i..: ::. ::: The foregoing description of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. The described embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilise the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. Therefore, further modifications or improvements may be incorporated without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

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Claims

1) A canopy sub frame suitable for use with a canopy comprising two or more supporting masts and a tension structure, wherein the canopy sub frame comprises two or more mast connectors suitable for receiving and locating the two or more supporting masts so as to provide the required support for the tension structure.

2) A canopy sub frame as claimed in Claim 1 wherein the mast connectors are connected to the canopy sub frame so as to be rotatable about their own axis.

3) A canopy sub frame as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 2 wherein the canopy sub frame further comprises one or more cable connectors suitable for receiving a tension cable associated with at least one of the two or more mast connectors.

4) A canopy sub frame as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the canopy sub frame further comprises two or more tensile canopy connectors that provide a means for connecting the tensile canopy directly to the sub frame.

5) A canopy sub frame as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the canopy sub frame further comprises one or more anchor connection means suitable for receiving one or more sub frame restraining devices.

6) A canopy sub frame as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the canopy sub frame comprises two or . . . . . . . ... . . . e . . ...

more sub frame arms to which the two or more mast connectors are connectable.

7) A canopy sub frame as claimed in Claim 6 wherein at least one of the two or more of the sub frame arms are telescopic.

8) A canopy sub frame as claimed in either of Claim 6 or Claim 7 wherein the canopy sub frame further comprises one or more arm connectors suitable for connecting the two or more sub frame arms.

9) A canopy sub frame as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the canopy sub frame is made from a material selected from the group comprising steel, aluminium, plastic and timber.

10) A canopy comprising two or more supporting masts, a tension structure and a canopy sub frame wherein the canopy sub frame comprises a sub frame as claimed in any of Claims 1 to 9.

11) A canopy as claimed in Claim 10 wherein the two or more supporting masts are located between the canopy sub frame and the tension structure.

12) A canopy as claimed in Claim 10 wherein the canopy sub frame is located between the two or more supporting masts and the tension structure.

13) A canopy as claimed in any of Claims 10 to 12 wherein at least one of the two or more supporting masts is telescopic.

I. : :-.

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14) A canopy as claimed in any of Claims 10 to 12 wherein the canopy further comprises one or more sub frame restraining devices.

15) A canopy as claimed in Claim 14 wherein the sub frame restraining devices comprise a device selected from the group comprising of a bolt anchor, a threaded bar, a stake and a cable.

16) A canopy sub frame substantially as herein described and illustrated in Figures 1, 2, 3 or 4.

17) A canopy substantially as herein described and illustrated in Figures 1, 2, 3 or 4.

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