WO2006092705A1 - A structural part for a structural arrangement - Google Patents

Abstract

This invention relates to a structural part for a structural arrangement. The structural part includes a collapsible closed frame formed of at least one substantially rigid and at least two resiliently flexible frame elements, joined end to end. The frame operatively carries a flexible sheet element which, in an operative erect configuration of the structural part in which the frame is erect, spans the frame. The structural part is biased under the resilience of the resiliently flexible frame elements into its erect configuration and permits collapsing, against this resilience, into a compact storage configuration by performing a twisting and folding operation on the frame. The structural part, when operatively carrying a flexible sheet element, is suitable for use as a banner-type display device or may form a part of a structural arrangement such as a gazebo, a vehicle shelter, and so forth.

Description

A STRUCTURAL PART FOR A STRUCTURAL ARRANGEMENT

THIS INVENTION relates to a structural part for a structural arrangement.

The invention relates particularly to a structural part for a structural arrangement that includes a closed frame operatively carrying a flexible sheet element located on and spanning the frame. The structural part thus forms a panel-like structure that can form a structural part of a generally light weight and easily portable structural arrangement such as a banner-type display device, a gazebo, a carport, a merchandising container, and the like.

In relation to the envisaged applications of the structural part of the invention, collapse of the structural part and/or collapse of a structural arrangement including two or more structural parts, into a more compact storage configuration, is an objective. It is known in this regard, particularly in relation to a banner-type display device of the general type herein envisaged, that a structural part of such a device may include a closed frame formed of an elongate resiliency flexible element that, without the flexible sheet element located thereon, would define a generally circular configuration and that, with a flexible sheet element located thereon, defines a closed loop profile as determined by the perimeter profile of the sheet element, e.g. an oval profile, the frame particularly being located in a seam defined by the sheet element around the perimeter thereof, that provides for the required location of the sheet element on the frame. With the frame element of such a closed loop frame having suitable resilient flexibility and a suitable cross-sectional profile, collapse of the frame is permitted by performing a twisting and folding operation thereon, either into a two-loop or a three-loop compact configuration or one having even more loops, suitable for transport and storage.

The Applicant has invented a structural part having a rectangular frame formed of four elongate, resiliently flexible frame elements that can be covered by a flexible sheet element by its location on the frame and that is collapsible by performing a twisting and folding operation on the frame, particularly permitted by the resilient flexibility of the frame elements. Such a structural part is, for example, disclosed in a patent application filed by the Applicant and published as WO2004/114261. Such a structural part enabled the formation of structural arrangements as envisaged.

A problem that was identified in relation to some structural arrangements of any of the general types referred to above is that, as a result of the resilient flexibility of the frames of their structural parts, the structural arrangements tended to be unstable, particularly when exposed to strong wind conditions and the like. It is thus an object of this invention to at least ameliorate this problem.

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a structural part for a structural arrangement, which includes a collapsible closed frame formed of at least two resiliently flexible frame elements and at least one substantially rigid frame element, joined end to end, the structural part being biased under the resilience of the resiliently flexible frame elements into an operative erect configuration thereof and permitting collapsing, against this resilience, into a compact storage configuration by performing a twisting and folding operation on the frame. It will be appreciated in respect of the structural part of the first aspect of the invention that, with at least one of the frame elements being substantially rigid, the structural part will have enhanced rigidity when compared to an equivalently dimensioned structural part of which all the frame elements are resiliently flexible. As such, a structural arrangement formed of two or more structural parts may be provided with sufficient rigidity to permit its use in relatively strong wind conditions, while still providing for collapsibility thereof, through collapse of individual structural parts thereof, into a compact storage configuration by performing a twisting and folding operation on the structural parts, either separately following separation from one another, or having been folded onto one another.

The structural part of the first aspect of the invention may include a flexible sheet element which is carried on the frame and which, in the operative erect configuration of the structural part, spans the frame. The flexible sheet element of the structural part of the first aspect of the invention may be formed of any one of a natural fabric material, a synthetic fabric material, a synthetic plastics material, and the like. The flexible sheet element may be located on the frame with the frame elements passing through seams formed around the perimeter of the sheet element. Alternatively, the flexible sheet element may be located in a configuration in which it is easily removable and replaceable, for example via pocket formations defined on the perimeter of the sheet element and/or via the use of VELCRO elements, press studs, and the like.

In lieu of including a flexible sheet element, the structural part may merely provide for securing of a matching flexible sheet element thereto in a configuration in which the flexible sheet element is carried on the frame and, in the operative erect configuration of the structural part, spans the frame.

In the structural part of the first aspect of the invention, the frame elements may be fixedly interconnected at all the joints. The joints of the frame elements may be defined by connector pieces.

The at least one substantially rigid frame element may be a tubular element.

The resiliency flexible frame elements may include such elements of different stiffness.

In a particular type of the structural part of the first aspect of the invention, the resiliently flexible frame elements include a pair of such elements which, in the erect configuration of the structural part, are at least substantially straight, coplanar, and disposed directly across each other. In this type, at least one of the following may apply:

The resiliently flexible elements of the said pair may, in the erect configuration of the structural part, be disposed at least substantially parallel to each other.

The frame, in the erect configuration of the structural part, may be at least substantially rectangular when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the general plane of the resiliently flexible frame elements.

The frame elements may comprise the said pair of resiliently flexible frame elements and two substantially rigid frame elements, the two types of elements alternating in sequence.

At least one of the resiliently flexible frame elements of the said pair may have tubular members of a substantially rigid material disposed around it near opposite ends thereof, the tubular members serving to enhance the rigidity of the structural part.

The frame may include at least one elongate reinforcing element that, in the erect configuration of the structural part, extends between the resiliently flexible frame elements of the said pair, enhancing the rigidity of the structural part when in its erect configuration, the configuration of the reinforcing element being such as to still permit collapse of the structural part by performing a twisting and folding operation on its frame.

The flexible sheet element of the structural part of the first aspect of the invention, where provided, may have display matter applied thereto, permitting it to operatively fulfil a display function.

In a particular embodiment of the structural part of the first aspect of the invention including two opposite substantially rigid frame elements, these elements have at their centres mounting means for rotatably mounting the structural part, in its operative configuration, on a matching support structure, providing for the structural part and such a support structure to form a structural arrangement in the form of a banner-type display device. As such, the shape of the substantially rigid frame elements, when viewed in a direction parallel to the resiliently flexible frame elements in the erect configuration of the structural part, may provide, with a flexible sheet element spanned between them to follow their shape, for rotation of the structural part under wind action. The substantially rigid frame elements may be one of substantially S-shaped and substantially Z-shaped when viewed in the said direction.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a structural arrangement which includes at least one structural part, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, which, in an operative configuration of the structural arrangement, is in its erect configuration.

The structural arrangement may include at least one leg for holding the structural part above ground level, in the operative configuration of the structural arrangement.

A particular type of the structural arrangement of the second aspect of the invention includes at least two structural parts, as referred to, which, in the operative configuration of the structural arrangement, are in their erect configurations and securely interengaged with each other. In this type, at least one of the following may apply:

The structural parts may be interengaged via a flexible sheet element of the arrangement. Alternatively, the frames of the two structural parts may include a common frame element and connector pieces cooperating with this frame element to permit folding of the frames onto one another.

The structural parts may have biasing means which, when the structural parts are in their erect configurations, act between them and urge them into a position relative to each other required for the operative configuration of the structural arrangement.

The structural arrangement may provide for the structural parts to fold onto each other and thereby to permit collapse of the structural arrangement by performing a simultaneous twisting and folding operation on the frames of the structural parts.

The structural arrangement may include a spacer element which, in the operative configuration of the structural arrangement, interconnects the structural parts.

The structural parts may, in the operative configuration of the structural arrangement, be interconnected in a configuration in which they form a compartment within the arrangement, permitting the structural arrangement to serve as a merchandising container.

The structural arrangement may include two structural parts that are interconnected and that, in the operative configuration of the arrangement, forms an A- frame configuration in end view.

The structural arrangement of the second aspect of the invention may be configured to serve as one of a gazebo, a vehicle shelter, and a general purpose shade structure. The structural arrangement of the second aspect of the invention may include a structural part of the type referred to above in which the substantially rigid frame elements have at their centres mounting means for rotatably mounting the structural part. As such, it may include also a support structure on which the structural part is rotatably mounted to form a banner type display device.

The features of a structural part for a structural arrangement, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, as well as the configuration of various different structural arrangements, in accordance with the second aspect of the invention, are explained and described in more detail hereinafter by way of examples thereof that are illustrated in the accompanying diagrammatic drawings. In the drawings:

Figure 1 shows an elevational front view of the rectangular frame of an embodiment of a structural part, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, for a structural arrangement, in accordance with the second aspect of the invention, in an unfolded configuration thereof;

Figure 2 shows the frame of Figure 1 in a collapsed folded configuration thereof;

Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the rectangular frame of Figure 1 , along the line Ill-Ill of Figure 1 , having a flexible sheet element securely located thereon to form a structural part;

Figure 4 shows a side view of the rectangular frame of Figure 1 , having a reinforcing member releasably located with respect thereto;

Figure 5 shows an elevational view of a structural part including a rectangular frame as shown in Figure 1 , having two different embodiment reinforcing members located with respect thereto; Figure 6 shows a frame of a further embodiment of a structural part for a structural arrangement, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, in an unfolded configuration thereof;

Figure 7 shows the frame of Figure 6, in a collapsed folded configuration thereof;

Figure 8 shows a frame of yet a further embodiment of a structural part for a structural arrangement, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, in an unfolded configuration thereof;

Figure 9 shows an end view of the frame of Figure 8, in the direction of arrows IX - IX of Figure 8;

Figure 10 shows a side view of a corner region of the rectangular frame of Figure

1 , having a foot formation releasably connected therewith, permitting use of a structural part including the rectangular frame as a structural arrangement in the form of a display device;

Figure 11 shows an elevational front view of the corner region of the rectangular frame of Figure 10, together with the foot formation;

Figure 12 shows a side view of a structural arrangement in the form of a display device, including a structural part having a rectangular frame as shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 13 shows an elevational front view of a structural arrangement including two inter-connected structural parts, each having a rectangular frame as shown in Figure 1 ; Figure 14 shows an end view of a structural arrangement in the form of a display device that includes two structural parts, each having a rectangular frame as shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 15 shows a plan view of a structural arrangement in the form of a display device that includes three structural parts, each having a rectangular frame as shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 16 shows the structural arrangement of Figure 15, in a partially collapsed configuration;

Figure 17 shows a three-dimensional view of a structural arrangement in the form of a gazebo, including a structural part having a rectangular frame as shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 18 shows a three-dimensional partial view of a structural arrangement in the form of a carport, including two structural parts having rectangular frames as shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 15 shows a three-dimensional view of a structural arrangement in the form of a merchandising container, including two structural parts having rectangular frames as shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 20 shows a front view of a triangular frame of an embodiment of a structural part, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, for a structural arrangement, in accordance with the second aspect of the invention, in an unfolded configuration thereof; and

Figure 21 shows the frame of Figure 20 in a collapsed folded configuration thereof. Referring initially to Figures 1 and 2 of the drawings, a rectangular frame of a structural part, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, is designated generally by the reference numeral 10. The rectangular frame 10 is formed of four substantially linear frame elements that form a rectangular frame structure by being fixedly joined end to end, in the configuration as shown, by means of connector pieces 14.

The longer frame elements 11 are formed of a resiliently flexible material, e.g. spring steel or a carbon fibre reinforced material, whereas the shorter frame elements 12 are formed of a substantially rigid material, typically tubing of aluminium, or the like. The frame elements 11 and 12 forming the frame 10 particularly are such that, without undue forces acting on the frame, the rectangular configuration of the frame is maintained, while the collapse of the frame into a collapsed configuration, substantially as shown in Figure 2, is permitted, by performing a manual twisting and folding operation on the longer frame elements 11 , which results in the shorter frame elements 12 to be effectively folded onto one another.

Referring also to Figure 3 of the drawings, a complete structural part including the frame 10 includes also a substantially rectangular sheet element 16 (only shown in dotted lines), the sheet element spanning the frame 10 when disposed in its configuration as shown in Figure 1. The sheet element 16 is provided with seams around the perimeter thereof, by stitching or another suitable operation, the frame elements 11 and 12 being located within these seams for the secure location of the sheet element 16 on the frame 10. The sheet element can be formed of any suitable sheet material and typically is formed of a synthetic plastics sheet material, or a natural or a synthetic fabric sheet material. The sheet element, in use as part of a structural part of a banner-type display device, has display matter applied thereto by a printing or other process, which matter can be displayed by the structural part when supported in a display configuration which, generally, is a substantially upright configuration. The sheet element located on the frame of a structural part also may be releasably attached to the frame, typically with the aid of VELCRO elements, press studs, and the like. Alternatively, pocket formations may be provided around the perimeter of the sheet element that can serve to removably locate the element on a frame. It is submitted in relation to a structural part as envisaged that the rigid frame elements will facilitate the attachment of a sheet element to the frame.

It must be understood that the resilient flexibility of the frame elements 11 forming the frame 10, which is essentially determined by the material of which these elements are formed, the cross-sectional profile of these elements and the cross-sectional dimensions of these elements, must be optimized so that these elements 11 , in combination with the elements 12, which are substantially rigid, can maintain the rectangular frame structure configuration of the frame 10, particularly when having a sheet element 16 located thereon, although still permitting manual collapse without requiring excessive force. In order to enhance the rigidity of the frame, the connector pieces 14 that connect the longer frame element 11.1 to the shorter frame elements 12 have tubular segments 15 secured thereto and extending therefrom in a configuration in which the frame element 11.1 passes therethrough. These tubular segments are formed of a substantially rigid material and, as such, it will be understood that the rigidity of the frame 10 will be significantly enhanced by these tubular segments 15, reducing in particular possible sagging of the frame element 11.1 with the frame positioned on a ground surface in a position in which the frame element 11.2 rests on the ground and the frame element 11.1 is raised above the ground. The overall rigidity of the frame 10 also can be enhanced by locating similar tubular segments over the frame element 11.2, this being particularly required where the frame 10 is used as part of a structural part, having a flexible sheet element located thereon, in a configuration in which both the longer frame elements 11 are exposed to sagging. Although a frame 10 forming part of a structural part as above envisaged is considered to have sufficient rigidity to serve as part of a structural arrangement, e.g. a display device, where the frame is relatively small, it is envisaged that for larger frames a reinforcing member may be provided to act between the longer frame elements 11 , for enhancing effective rigidity of the frame. As such, and referring particularly to Figure 4 of the drawings, in relation to the frame 10 of a structural part as envisaged, a reinforcing member 18 is provided to act between the frame elements 11 , for maintaining the spacing between these elements and thereby enhancing the rigidity of the frame 10. The particular reinforcing member 18 has its opposite ends located with respect to the frame elements 11 via pocket formations (not clearly shown) provided on the sheet element 16 that is securely located on the frame 10. It is envisaged in this regard also that a reinforcing member may have one of its ends securely located with respect.to the remainder of the structural part of which it forms a part, while its other end is releasably engageable for holding the reinforcing member in its operative configuration.

The reinforcing member 18 as shown bows outwardly with respect to the general plane of the frame 10, thus being spaced from the sheet element 16 which is located on the frame 10. The spacing reduces the visibility of the reinforcing member 18 when viewing display matter applied to the sheet element 16 from the operative front face side of the sheet element 16, i.e. in the direction of arrow 19, where the structural part forms a part of a display device. It will be understood that many different configuration reinforcing members can be associated with the structural part, including a frame as hereinabove described and in this regard it is envisaged in particular that the frame of the structural part can be associated with two or more reinforcing members, where this may be required in terms of the size of the frame of the structural part and/or the intended application of the structural part, either as a display device, or otherwise.

In the frame 10, the resiliently flexible frame elements 11.1 and 11.2 are of the same stiffness. In an alternative embodiment structural part, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, not illustrated, having essentially the same shape frame as the frame 10, one such resiliently flexible frame element may have a stiffness different to that of the other.

The first aspect of the invention extends also to a structural part including merely a frame such as the frame 10 of Figure 1 , providing for a matching flexible sheet element to be operatively secured thereto.

Referring in the above regard particularly to Figure 5 of the drawings, in relation to a structural part, generally indicated by the numeral 20, that has a frame, as described above, on which a flexible sheet element 16 is located, the structural part has reinforcing members acting between the operative longer frame elements of the frame, two different configuration reinforcing members being shown. The one reinforcing member 22 acts between the longer frame elements and merely comprises a linear element that has its opposite ends located in pocket formations 24 that are provided on the sheet element 16, the reinforcing member being entirely removable, to still permit collapse of the frame associated with the structural part 20. Alternatively, one end of the reinforcing member may be secured within its pocket formation and the other end may be removable from its pocket formation, again permitting normal collapse of the associated frame, the reinforcing member 22 clearly being essentially the equivalent of the reinforcing member 18, as described with reference to Figure 4 of the drawings, but not being bowed.

The other reinforcing member 26 also acts between the longer frame elements of the frame forming part of the structural part 20, opposite ends of the reinforcing member being secured within pocket formations 28 provided therefore by the flexible sheet element 16. The reinforcing member 26 is made up of two telescopically displaceable tubular parts that are spring loaded into the configuration as shown and that permit relative displacement of the parts in order to accommodate required collapse of the associated frame of the structural part 20. It is envisaged in this regard also that two parts forming a reinforcing member, equivalent to the member 26, may be releasably inter-connected at their free ends, where release provides for collapse of the associated frame or, alternatively, may be pivotally connected to serve in a similar manner to the reinforcing member 26, as described. Clearly, the mode of reinforcing a structural part, in accordance with the invention, will be determined by the structural arrangement with which the structural part is to be associated and can thus be greatly varied.

Referring to Figure 6 of the drawings, a frame of a further embodiment of a structural part for a structural arrangement, in accordance with the invention, is designated generally by the reference numeral 30. The frame 30 is comprised of two resiliency flexible linear frame elements 32 made of a carbon fibre reinforced material and two semicircular substantially rigid frame members 34 made of aluminium tubing. Each frame element 34 is connected at each end thereof to an end of one of the frame members 32 via a connector piece 36 defining a rigid joint. The frame 30 is shown in an unfolded configuration thereof, in which the elements 32 are parallel to each other, meaning that the connector pieces 36 are co-planar.

By performing a manual twisting and folding operation on the frame 30, it can be collapsed into a compact storage configuration, as shown in Figure 7, in which the elements 34 (only one shown here) are on top of one another and each of the elements 32 is bent in a bow shape and is twisted about its centre line.

It will be appreciated that the frame 30 is an alternative to the frame of Figure 1 and that it can, in certain applications, serve in stead thereof. Particularly in its operative configuration, it will carry a flexible sheet element of a matching shape located on and spanning it. It can also form a part of a structural arrangement, e.g. one equivalent to any one of those shown in Figures 12, 14, and 15.

Referring to Figure 8 of the drawings, a further embodiment of a frame for a structural part for a structural arrangement, in accordance with the invention, is designated generally by the reference numeral 38. The frame 38 is comprised of two resiliently flexible linear frame elements 40 made of a carbon fibre reinforced material and two substantially rigid frame members 42 made of aluminium tubing. Each frame element 42 is connected at each end thereof to an end of one of the frame members 40 via a connector piece 44 defining a rigid joint. The frame 38 is shown in an unfolded configuration thereof, in which the elements 40 are parallel to each other, meaning that the connector pieces 44 are co-planar.

With reference particularly to Figure 9, the element 42.1 is generally S-shaped when viewed in the direction of arrows IX-IX of Figure 8. The element 42.2 (see Figure 8) is identical to it.

With reference again particularly to Figure 8, each of the members 42 carries on its centre a mounting member 46, which is clearly on the centre line of the frame 38, designated by the reference numeral 48. With a flexible sheet element located on the frame 38, the members 46 can co-operate with matching mounting members defined by a matching support structure (not shown) to provide a structural arrangement in the form of a banner-type display device including the frame 38, the sheet element, and the support structure. With the flexible element particularly spanning the frame 38 between the members 42, the element will substantially follow the shape of the members 42, i.e. it will be substantially S-shaped in cross-section and straight in long section. Wind acting on the structural part at an angle to the centre line 48 will cause it to rotate, thus attracting attention to the structural part and, particularly, any advertising matter printed on its flexible sheet element.

By performing a manual twisting and folding operation on the frame 38, it can be collapsed into a compact storage configuration (not shown), similar to that of the frame 10 shown in Figure 2.

Referring now to Figures 10 and 11 of the drawings, a structural part, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, when used as a display device, can include two foot formations 50 (only one shown) that provide for the support of the structural part in an operative upright display configuration. Each foot formation includes an elongate base member 52 and a leg 54, the leg being telescopically received within a passage formation defined therefore by a corner piece 14.1 of the frame of the structural part (see Figure 1 ). The mode of location of such foot formations clearly is greatly variable. The foot formations may be completely removable from the frame, and may be securely located with respect thereto. It is envisaged also that the location of the foot formations with respect to the frame of the structural part can be rendered adjustable, thus effectively rendering the structural part including the frame height adjustable, as may be required for different display configurations of an associated display device. It will be understood in this regard that many different configuration foot formations can be provided for the purpose described and can be associated with a structural part, including a frame as described, for forming a structural arrangement such as a display device, or the like.

Referring to Figure 12 of the drawings, a structural arrangement in the form of a display device is designated generally by the reference numeral 58. The structural arrangement includes a structural part 60 and a stand 62, the stand providing for the support of the structural part in an operative upright display configuration. The stand 62 includes legs 64 (only one leg being visible) and cross members 66, the cross members providing for the legs to be held in their required angular configuration with respect to the structural part 60, in order to support the structural part 60 in its display configuration. It is envisaged that the stand 62 can be provided as a separate unit that is independently collapsible and/or foldable into a more compact configuration, also permitting the structural part to be folded into a more compact configuration as shown in Figure 2. Once again, it will be appreciated that many different configurations of stands can be associated with structural parts for supporting the structural parts in a display configuration to serve the purpose of a display device and in this regard both the foot formations as described with reference to Figures 10 and 11 , and the stand as described with reference to Figure 12, can be associated with combinations of structural parts that are interengaged with one another, for supporting the structural parts in a display configuration.

It is ordinarily envisaged that if two or more structural parts are to be used in combination with one another for forming a structural arrangement, such as a display device, that these structural parts will be connected with one another via the sheet elements thereof, by suitable stitching, or the like. However, a preferred embodiment of such a structural arrangement, as shown in Figure 13, provides for the frames of the structural parts thereof to be provided with a common frame element.

Figure 13 particularly shows two structural parts 70 that each has a frame 72 that is essentially the equivalent of the frame 10 as shown in Figure 1 of the drawings. However, the frame element 74 of the respective frames 72 constitute a common element to both the frames 72, the connector pieces 76 being configured to permit one frame 72 to fold onto the other frame 72, in which configuration the two structural parts 70 can be simultaneously collapsed into a collapsed configuration, essentially as shown in Figure 2.

It will be understood in the above regard that a structural arrangement, in the form of a display device and including the structural parts 70, the display elements of which are not shown in Figure 13, can be supported in a display configuration in various modes, either via separate support means such as foot formations as shown in Figures 10 and

11 , or a stand as shown in Figure 12, or merely by positioning the structural parts 70 at an angle to one another, which will permit the structural parts to effectively become self supporting in their display configuration.

Figure 14 shows a structural arrangement in the form of a display device that is designated generally by the reference numeral 80, the arrangement 80 including two structural parts 82 that are connected together along their longitudinal edges, the two structural parts 82 either being associated with totally separate frames, or frames having a common frame element. Where associated with a common frame element, a single sheet element can serve to span the frames of both the structural parts 82, by the suitable location thereof with respect to the frames. The two structural parts 82 permit support in an A-frame configuration when viewed in side view and as shown, a flexible element 84 extending between the structural parts 82 for securing the angular configuration of the structural parts in their display configuration. Particularly for such an A-frame display device, the operative top frame element forming part of the frames of the two structural parts may be a common element and, as such, may have tubular segments located thereon equivalent to the segments 15 as shown in Figure 1 of the drawings, to provide the display device with suitable rigidity, particularly also to accommodate strong wind conditions. Also as shown in Figure 14 of the drawings, biasing means in the form of one or more spring 86 can be provided to act between the frames of the two structural parts 82 for urging them into their operative configuration as shown, which is determined by the flexible element 84 also, as shown.

It is submitted that many different configuration structural arrangements that can serve as display devices can be provided by combining structural parts, incorporating frames as described with reference to Figure 1 , with one another, Figure 15 illustrating in plan view the configuration of a structural arrangement 90 that serves the purpose of a display device and that includes three structural parts 92, that are arranged in the triangular configuration as shown, in which they effectively support themselves. It will be understood that one of the structural parts 92 will have the other two structural parts interengaged therewith, the free ends of the said other two structural parts being releasably connectable with one another for holding the structural part 90 in the configuration as shown. By releasing the connected ends of the said othertwo structural parts 92, the three structural parts can be collapsed into a configuration as shown in Figure 16, in which they are folded flat onto one another, again permitting the collapse of the three structural parts, together, into a configuration substantially as shown in Figure 2. Referring now to Figure 17 of the drawings, a structural arrangement, including a structural part as above described, is designated generally by the reference numeral 94. The structural arrangement 94 comprises a gazebo that is formed of one structural part 96 that incorporates a collapsible frame as above described, the connector pieces of the structural part 96 providing also for the location of four legs 98, whereby the structural part can be held in its position as shown, to permit its application as a gazebo. The legs 98 may be removable or hingedly displaceable, in order to still permit required collapse of the structural part 96 into a compact storage configuration of the structural arrangement. The flexible sheet element 100 of the structural part 96 also may extend downwardly along the legs 98, as shown, the extension segment 102 serving also to enhance the stability of the structural arrangement. It will be understood in this regard that by providing extension segments that extend further downwardly, particularlyto the ground, a structural arrangement in the form of an enclosed compartment may be provided. One or more of the extension segments can then be configured to provide for access into such a compartment.

Referring to Figure 18 of the drawings, a further structural arrangement, including structural parts as above described, is partially shown and is designated generally by the reference numeral 104. The arrangement 104 serves the purpose of a carport and includes two structural parts 106 and four legs 108 (only two shown). The structural arrangement particularly can serve as a carport with the structural parts 106 serving as a roof thereof. The two structural parts are parts as described above and of which the flexible sheet elements are connected together by stitching, or the like, the parts thus being foldable onto one another to permit simultaneous collapse into a compact storage configuration. It is envisaged also that the two structural parts 106 may include a common frame element, the connector pieces hence associated with the frames of the structural parts again permitting folding of the structural parts onto one another, to permit simultaneous collapse thereof. Once again, the legs 108 either may be removably or displaceably located with respect to the structural parts, thus not to interfere with the required collapse of the structural parts. It will again be appreciated that with the suitable use of flexible sheets between the legs 108, structural arrangements in the form of compartments can be provided for different purposes.

Referring particularly to Figure 19 of the drawings, a structural arrangement including structural parts as described above, is designated generally by the reference numeral 114. The structural arrangement is in the form of an open-topped container and includes two structural parts 116 that are held in a spaced configuration by spacer elements 118, the spacer elements cooperating with connector pieces of the structural parts for their location as shown. The spacer elements 118 typically are removable in order to permit the collapse of the structural parts 116 onto one another for further collapse into a compact storage configuration, flexible sheets effectively connecting the structural parts 116 to one another, with the spacer elements providing required rigidity of the structural arrangement. It is envisaged that the structural arrangement, which is in the form of an open topped container, can be used for many different applications including merchandising, product storage, and the like. A similar structural arrangement also can serve as a play pen for small children.

Referring now to Figures 20 and 21 of the drawings, a triangular frame of a structural part, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, is designated generally by the reference numeral 122. The frame 122 is formed of three substantially linear frame elements that form a triangular frame structure by being fixedly joined end to end, in the configuration as shown.

The frame elements 124 are formed of a resiliently flexible material, e.g. spring steel or a carbon fibre reinforced material, whereas the shorter frame element 126 is formed of a substantially rigid material, typically tubing of aluminium, or the like. The frame elements 124 and 126 forming the frame 122 particularly are such that, without undue forces acting on the frame, the triangular configuration of the frame is maintained, while the collapse of the frame into a collapsed configuration, substantially as shown in Figure 21 , is permitted, by performing a manual twisting and folding operation on the frame elements 124.

A complete structural part including the frame 122 includes also a flexible sheet element (not shown) which is carried by the frame and which, in the erect configuration of the frame shown in Figure 20, spans the frame. The flexible sheet element will be collapsible along with the frame. Such a structural part may, in its operative configuration, be used for purposes similar to that of the other structural parts described above.

It will be understood from a consideration of all the structural arrangements as above described that numerous different structural arrangements can be provided that include one or more structural parts, where the structural parts are operatively interconnected while permitting collapse of the parts into a configuration in which the structural parts can be collapsed into a storage configuration, in which storage, handling and transport thereof is facilitated. It will be appreciated in this regard also that structural parts of structural arrangements may be completely separable, in which case structural arrangements will be separable into two or more separate units that are interconnected only in the operative configuration of the structural arrangements. Particularly by the location of flexible sheet elements between structural parts, spacer elements and/or legs as envisaged above, various different configuration structural arrangements can be achieved, the invention extending particularly to any structural arrangement that includes at least one structural part having a frame as shown in Figure 1 and that permits collapse into a compact storage configuration as envisaged, through the collapse of the or each structural part by performing a manual twisting and folding operation on the frame. With the frame of the structural part, including resiliently flexible longer frame elements and substantially rigid shorter frame elements, it is submitted that structural arrangements of the general type herein envisaged will be relatively stable in use, particularly also in strong wind conditions, and the like. It must be appreciated that the relative lengths of the frame elements will be determined such that suitable rigidity of a structural part is provided, while collapse is still permitted.

A structural arrangement which includes a plurality of structural parts as above envisaged and where the rigid frame elements of at least some of the frames of the structural parts are vertically disposed with the arrangement supported on a support surface, the rigid frame elements clearly can serve a load bearing function, thus providing for still further applications for structural arrangements as envisaged.

Claims

1. A structural part for a structural arrangement, which includes a collapsible closed frame formed of at least two resiliently flexible frame elements and at least one substantially rigid frame element, joined end to end, the structural part being biased under the resilience of the resiliently flexible frame elements into an operative erect configuration thereof and permitting collapsing, against this resilience, into a compact storage configuration by performing a twisting and folding operation on the frame.

2. A structural part as claimed in Claim 1 , which includes a flexible sheet element which is carried on the frame and which, in the operative erect configuration of the structural part, spans the frame.

3. A structural part as claimed in Claim 1 , which provides for securing a matching flexible sheet element thereto in a configuration ir> which the flexible sheet element is carried on the frame and, in the operative erect configuration of the structural part, spans the frame.

4. A structural part as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which the frame elements are fixedly interconnected at all the joints.

5. A structural part as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which the joints are defined by connector pieces.

6. A structural part as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which the substantially rigid frame element is a tubular element.

7. A structural part as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which the resiliently flexible frame elements include such elements of different stiffness.

8. A structural part as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which the resiliently flexible frame elements include a pair of such elements which, in the erect configuration of the structural part, are at least substantially straight, coplanar, and disposed directly across each other.

9. A structural part as claimed in Claim 8, in which the resiliently flexible elements of the said pair are, in the erect configuration of the structural part, disposed at least substantially parallel to each other.

10. A structural part as claimed in Claim 9, in which the frame, in the erect configuration of the structural part, is at least substantially rectangular when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the general plane of the resiliently flexible frame elements.

11. A structural part as claimed in any one of Claims 8 to 10, in which the frame elements comprise the said pair of resiliently flexible frame elements and two substantially rigid frame elements, the two types of elements alternating in sequence.

12. A structural part as claimed in any one of Claims 8 to 11 , in which at least one of the resiliently flexible frame elements of the said pair has tubular members of a substantially rigid material disposed around it near opposite ends thereof, the tubular members serving to enhance the rigidity of the structural part.

13. A structural part as claimed in any one of Claims 8 to 12, in which the frame includes at least one elongate reinforcing element that, in the erect configuration of the structural part, extends between the resiliently flexible frame elements of the said pair, enhancing the rigidity of the structural part when in its erect configuration, the configuration of the reinforcing element being such as to still permit collapse of the structural part by performing a twisting and folding operation on its frame.

14. A structural part as claimed in Claim 2, in which the flexible sheet element has display matter applied thereto, permitting it to operatively fulfil a display function.

15. A structural part as claimed in Claim 11 , in which the substantially rigid frame elements have at their centres mounting means for rotatably mounting the structural part, in its operative configuration, on a matching support structure, providing for the structural part and such a support structure to form a structural arrangement in the form of a banner-type display device.

16. A structural part as claimed in Claim 15, in which the shape of the substantially rigid frame elements, when viewed in a direction parallel to the resiliently flexible frame elements in the erect configuration of the structural part, provides, with a flexible sheet element spanned between them to follow their shape, for rotation of the structural part under wind action.

17. A structural part as claimed in Claim 16, in which the substantially rigid frame elements are one of substantially S-shaped and substantially Z-shaped when viewed in the said direction.

18. A structural arrangement which includes at least one structural part, as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 17, which, in an operative configuration of the structural arrangement, is in its erect configuration.

19. A structural arrangement as claimed in Claim 18, which includes at least one leg for holding the structural part above ground level, in the operative configuration of the structural arrangement.

20. A structural arrangement as claimed in Claim 18 or in Claim 19, which includes at least two structural parts, as referred to, which, in the operative configuration of the structural arrangement, are in their erect configurations and securely interengaged with each other.

21. A structural arrangement as claimed in Claim 20, in which the structural parts are interengaged via a flexible sheet element of the arrangement.

22. A structural arrangement as claimed in Claim 20, in which the frames of the two structural parts include a common frame element and connector pieces cooperating with this frame element to permit folding of the frames onto one another.

23. A structural arrangement as claimed in any one of Claims 20 to 22, in which the structural parts have biasing means which, when the structural parts are in their erect configurations, act between them and urge them into a position relative to each other required for the operative configuration of the structural arrangement.

24. A structural arrangement as claimed in any one of Claims 20 to 23, which provides for the structural parts to fold onto each other and thereby to permit collapse of the structural arrangement by performing a simultaneous twisting and folding operation on the frames of the structural parts.

25. A structural arrangement as claimed in any one of Claims 20 to 24, which includes a spacer element which, in the operative configuration of the structural arrangement, interconnects the structural parts.

26. A structural arrangement as claimed in any one of Claims 18 to 25, which is configured to serve as one of a gazebo, a vehicle shelter, and a general purpose shade structure.

27. A structural arrangement as claimed in any one of Claims 20 to 25, in which the structural parts are, in the operative configuration of the structural arrangement, interconnected in a configuration in which they form a compartment within the arrangement, permitting the structural arrangement to serve as a merchandising container.

28. A structural arrangement as claimed in any one of Claims 20 to 26, which includes two structural parts that are interconnected and that, in the operative configuration of the arrangement, forms an A-frame configuration in end view.

29. A structural arrangement as claimed in Claim 18, in which the structural part is a structural part as claimed in any one of Claims 15 to 17 and which includes a support structure on which the structural part is rotatably mounted to form a banner type display device.

30. A structural part substantially as described herein with reference to and as illustrated in the accompanying diagrammatic drawings.

31. A structural arrangement substantially as described herein with reference to and as illustrated in the accompanying diagrammatic drawings.