초록 ▼

A canopy structure, kit and method permits a user to custom configure a canopy shelter is almost unlimited curvilinear shapes. To accomplish this, a flexible sheet that is elastic in at least one, but preferably two dimensions may be secured over an area to be sheltered. Anchors connect the sheet ei

A canopy structure, kit and method permits a user to custom configure a canopy shelter is almost unlimited curvilinear shapes. To accomplish this, a flexible sheet that is elastic in at least one, but preferably two dimensions may be secured over an area to be sheltered. Anchors connect the sheet either directly to the surface, such as the ground, or to an object, such as a tree or building, secured to the surface. A support pole is interposed between the surface and the sheet; and this support pole is sufficiently long to deform the sheet in the direction(s) of elasticity and thus exert a compression force on the pole. A plurality of support poles of varying lengths may be formed from identical pole sections, and base plates and dome elements may be used on the poles. The anchors are formed to engage the edge margin of the sheet at random locations, and these anchors, or alternative clasps, may engage the central portion of the sheet so that even greater design flexibility is possible. The sheet is preferably spandex and may be coated with protective materials, and it may be printed with a desired pattern.

대표청구항 ▼

[ I claim:] [1.] A canopy structure adapted to be erected over a surface area in custom configurations in order to shelter a space thereunder, comprising:(a) a flexible sheet of a selected geometric shape when in a relaxed state and having a central portion surrounded by an edge margin that is adjac

[ I claim:] [1.] A canopy structure adapted to be erected over a surface area in custom configurations in order to shelter a space thereunder, comprising:(a) a flexible sheet of a selected geometric shape when in a relaxed state and having a central portion surrounded by an edge margin that is adjacent to a peripheral edge thereof, said sheet formed of a material that is elastic in at least one direction of elasticity so that said sheet, when deformed into a stretched state will exert a restoring force that acts to return said sheet too the relaxed state;(b) a plurality of anchors each operative to releasably secure to said edge margin with respect to a support surface whereby said sheet is retained over a surface area to be sheltered, said anchors each constructed to engage the peripheral edge at any selected random location therearound; and(c) a support pole adapted to be interposed between the support surface and said sheet at any selected random location within the central portion when said sheet is secured to the support surface, said support pole of sufficient length to cause said sheet to deform in the direction of elasticity thereby to create an apex at the selected random location and to elevate an apexial portion of said sheet above the support surface, the restoring force exerted by said sheet operative to apply a compression force on said pole.