Importance

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Abstract

An expandable multi-purpose utility shelter (10), designed in several sizes, which is quickly erectable by two to six persons. The structure has a sturdy metal frame (12, 16) with a durable fabric cover (11) attached to the inside of the frame. The frame (12, 16) comprises a series of ribs (12) which can be very quickly and easily extended from a compact folded configuration needed for easy transportation to a full sized shelter at erection. Adjacent ribs (12) are connected by a single reinforcing member (16) or by X-shaped reinforcing members (16a) on each side of the shelter. These reinforcing members serve as force transmitting means for opening and closing the shelter (10) and keeping adjacent ribs (12) stabilized and spaced equidistant. Individual reinforcing members (16 or 16a) are pivotally connected to the lower portion of one shelter leg and rollably or slidably connected to the upper portion of a next adjacent shelter leg. The ribs (12) are equipped with a plurality of sturdy hinges (270) which are designed to prevent the ribs (12) from folding when in the erected position and to prevent pinching and damaging the cover when the shelter is folded. Hinges (270) are capable of rotating 120 degrees from the fully open to the fully closed positions. The design of the shelter (10) provides for attaching a thermal liner (287) and thermal floor (312) to the cover (11) with hook and pile fasteners (288 and 290) so that the shelter (10) may be folded without removing the liner (287) and floor (312). A plenum or duct (298) is attached to liner (287) for air conditioning or heating. A thermal barrier (326) and thermal barrier stand-offs (324 and 327) may be added to the shelter (10) to insulate the shelter from direct sunlight.

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First Claim