Patent ID: 6843261
Filing Date: 2005-01-18
Classification: E04H

Abstract:
1. A flexible shelter structure comprising: an elongated flexible pole under tension in a generally arcuate shape and having a first end and a second end, said first and said second end each in contact with the ground; a plurality of flexible spars each having a first end and a second end, each said spar flexibly connected to said pole at a point on said pole intermediate said first and said second end of said pole, and at a point on said spar intermediate said first and said second end of said spar, each said spar crossing said pole at an angle and being spaced apart relative to other spars along the length of said pole, said first and said second end of each said spar floating and not in contact with the ground, said spars being under tension in a generally arcuate shape with a radius of curvature greater than that of said elongated flexible pole, said pole and said spars thereby forming a flexible frame structure; and a membrane connected to said flexible frame structure and defining a substantially sheltered space thereunder, said sheltered space having a volume dependent on said radius of curvature of said spars.