Patent ID: 9267640
Filing Date: 2016-02-23
CPC Classification: E04H,F16M

Claim Text:
1. A method for extending a retractable mast having at least three flexible bands, each band of the at least three flexible bands including a left edge portion, a right edge portion, and a body therebetween, wherein each of the right edge portion and the left edge portion of the band has a series of alternating teeth and tabs disposed thereon, each tooth having a slot disposed therein, the method comprising: extending the retractable mast by drawing together each band from a respective spool of the flexible band, and engaging the left edge portion of each of the bands with the right edge portion of an adjacent band, wherein engaging the bands includes interlocking the teeth disposed on the left edge portion of each band with the teeth disposed on the right edge portion of an adjacent band, each tooth comprising a crown portion having an upper bent portion and a lower bent portion, wherein interlocking the teeth includes interlocking the upper bent portion within a notch cut at a lower base portion of an upper opposing tooth, and interlocking the lower bent portion within a notch cut at an upper base portion of a lower opposing tooth, the upper and lower bent portions angled in a same direction so as to extend over the adjacent band, and wherein engaging the bands further includes a slot, disposed in each tooth, receiving a tab disposed between adjacent teeth on an adjacent band.