Abstract:
An easy to use, universal, simple, lightweight, compact, portable, dynamically configurable and modular system of concealment and shelter. An operator configures a number of concealment blinds or shelters using brackets, supports, segmented and folding shafts, covers, curtains, and skirts, and more complex modules. Advanced modules include user adjustable domes and angular structures. Angular frames with corresponding angular covers provide improved headroom. The system can be configured for placement on a hillside or over rough terrain and obstacles, or for different types use. The system provides covers with novel windows, movable panels, and configuration attachments. The operator changes the configuration of the structure to quickly provide cover, to increase cover, and to adapt to terrain or changing weather. The system includes novel methods of tightening the skin on a cover to reduce movement and noise, while improving safety. Methods include using the full human body, from hands to feet, and its strongest muscle groups to rapidly set up the system with tighter skin. Foot attaching means and hand attachment means enable methods for setting up a fast setup frame or angular frame with the body in a horizontal seated row or a vertical power jerk position. Improved fast setup frame and angular frame are comprised of novel simpler components such as plates with single anchor connections. The components are easier to make, less costly using less material, yet yielding stronger, more durable frames. The system includes novel tent floors, netting, and rain cover configuration for use on fast setup frames or angular frames.

Description:
CONTINUATION AND PRIORITY CLAIMS 
       [0001]    This application is a continuation-in-part of, and claims priority based on MOC5 (i.e., U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/788,495, filed Apr. 20, 2007). This application also continues subject matter disclosed first in U.S. Pat. No. 7,100,626 (MOC1) and co-pending applications MOC2, MOC3, and MOC4, POLE1, and MOC5. The related applications are herein included by reference. This application claims priority based on each of the related applications, back to, and including, MOC PPA (i.e. U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/295,956, filed Jun. 4, 2001). 
       RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0002]    The following summarizes the related applications. The subheadings are internal docket numbers and are used for shorter reference to the related application or patent. 
       MOC-PPA 
       [0003]    Lightweight portable concealment means and methods 
         [0004]    Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/295,956 Filing Date: Jun. 4, 2001 
       MOC1 
       [0005]    Lightweight portable concealment means and methods 
         [0006]    patent application Ser. No. 10/161,986 Filing Date: Jun. 4, 2002 
         [0007]    Publication Number 2002/0189660 Publication Date: Dec. 19, 2002 
         [0008]    Now U.S. Pat. No. 7,100,626 Issue Date: Sep. 5, 2006 
       MOC2 
       [0009]    Universal lightweight portable concealment means and methods 
         [0010]    patent application Ser. No. 11/045,736 Filing Date: Jan. 28, 2005 
         [0011]    Publication Number 2005/0183761 Publication Date: Aug. 25, 2005 
       MOC3 
       [0012]    Modular system for concealment and shelter 
         [0013]    patent application Ser. No. 11/155,398 Filing Date: Jun. 16, 2005 
         [0014]    Publication Number 2006/0000499 Publication Date: Jan. 5, 2006 
       MOC4 
       [0015]    Modular system for concealment and shelter 
         [0016]    patent application Ser. No. 11/295,305 Filing Date: Dec. 5, 2005 
         [0017]    Publication Number 2006/0283491 Publication Date: Dec. 21, 2006 
       POLE1 
       [0018]    Modular system including shaft segments having configuration and breakdown attachments 
         [0019]    patent application Ser. No. 11/484,106 Filing Date: Jul. 10, 2006 
         [0020]    Publication Number 2006/0283492 Publication Date: Dec. 21, 2006 
       MOC5 
       [0021]    System for concealment and shelter with structure for rapid set up and tight skin 
         [0022]    patent application Ser. No. 11/788,495 Filing Date: Apr. 20, 2007 
         [0023]    Publication Number 2008/0006317 Publication Date: Jan. 10, 2008 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0024]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0025]    This invention relates to lightweight portable concealment and shelter systems and methods. 
         [0026]    2. Description of Prior Art 
         [0027]    There is often a need to conceal oneself when researching wildlife, hunting, camping, working on construction projects, or working in the outdoors. Wildlife researchers conceal themselves so that they can film and study wildlife without disturbing the behavior of the animals. Hunters often conceal themselves in various hunting blinds to avoid being detected by their prey. Campers often conceal themselves to bathe, change clothes, and perform other personal or hygiene activities. Construction workers, military, law enforcement, and others who work in the outdoors also have similar needs for concealment. Various methods have been employed to accomplish these tasks. 
         [0028]    In the past, quite complex, heavy structures have been built or constructed for concealment. Hunters have built permanent hunting blinds. Portable huts, shower stalls, dressing shelters, tents, canopies, and complex tree blind structures have been carried into the great outdoors. 
         [0029]    The related applications provided lists of patents and products relating to this field of invention. The discussion of these prior art references is included by reference. 
         [0030]    The use of such devices has several disadvantages such as being heavy, bulky, noisy, expensive, and complicated to assemble or use. Most of these devices have only a single use with poor performance. There is a need for a simple, lightweight, compact, portable, multi-use means of concealment. 
         [0031]    To avoid being detected by their scent, hunters and other wildlife observers climb trees using tree steps and then remain for hours in a tree stand watching and waiting for animals to pass by. However, a person in a tree stand makes a silhouette against the sky or background and is exposed to a 360-degree view. Animals can easily detect the human silhouette or movement. Further, if the person or equipment makes a noise the animal will know where to look. There is a need for a device that eliminates the silhouette. 
         [0032]    Complicated equipment or procedures create a situation where a person may drop equipment or, even worse, fall from the tree stand. Most of the existing devices block the view or mobility of the person. 
         [0033]    Metal objects screwed into trees are sometimes forgotten and become over grown by the tree. Later when the lumber is harvested and cut, the saw strikes the metal object and can cause severe damage. Some states have banned the use of metal tree screws or spikes. Any device used for attaching to trees in the forest needs an embodiment that attaches to the outside of the tree and can be easily removed. 
         [0034]    The following ground blinds or tents are known in the art:
       Hunter &#39;s Specialties&#39; “Lightweight Portable Ground Blind”   Avery’ “Avery Quick Carry Ground Blind”   U.S. Pat. No. 5,062,234, entitled “Portable Blind”   Double Bull “Matrix”   Cabela&#39;s “Lightning Set” and “Lightning Set 4-Season”   Black Stump&#39;s “Instant Tent”       
 
         [0041]    There are a number of very old patents relating to curtain support brackets. These are associated with hanging curtains inside a building on a wall and fail to anticipate many novel features of the present invention. 
         [0042]    There are also a number of very old patents relating to tents with hinged shafts, such as U.S. Pat. No. 1,502,898, Berg, filed Jan. 12, 1924, or umbrella tents, such as U.S. Pat. No. 1,649,219, Goldberg, filed Mar. 23, 1927. U.S. Pat. No. 74,933, Palmer, issued Feb. 25, 1868, disclosed an inverse umbrella-type frame deployed by a rope external to the enclosure. U.S. Pat. No. 3,794,054, Watts, issued Feb. 26, 1974, disclosed an inverse umbrella tent. 
         [0043]    However, these are limited in various ways. 
       Human Body Strength and Skin Tighting 
       [0044]    In the field of lightweight, portable outdoor blinds, there is a long felt need to have skins extremely tight to avoid detectable movement and noise. Numerous blind designs have attempted to provide the desired skin tightness but have failed without using complex, heavy frames that require significant time and athleticism to set up. Those that are lightweight and fast, such as conventional umbrella designs, fail to put enough force into the frame to provide the desired result. Further, because many blind products have promised, but have failed to deliver, cover skins that remain substantially motionless in windy conditions encountered while hunting, consumers are skeptical. To be successful a product must also stay taut when shaken by potential buyers on the trade show floor or in dealers&#39; show rooms. 
         [0045]    The arm muscles (biceps and triceps) of the human body are relatively weak compared to other muscle groups such as the legs, abdomen, back, and shoulders. This is especially true when arms are extended away from the body above the shoulders as is required to deploy conventional umbrella type blinds. Such blinds are set up with the frame expanded in an upright position and the operator either a) pushing up from inside with one hand while pulling a pull cord or shaft down with the other hand, or b) pushing down from outside with one hand while pulling a pull cord up with the other hand while standing beside the structure. For example, see the art cited in U.S. Pat. No. 6,354,316, Chen. Neither of these conventional methods take advantage of the strongest muscles groups in the body to provide the skin tightening force. 
         [0046]    In the power jerk position, the full human body can apply hundreds of pounds of force between the hands and the feet. In 1970 for example, Olympic lifters were able to clean and jerk over 500 lbs. A typical outdoorsman can apply up to about 75 pounds of continual force in the power jerk position. A six-foot human body has about 33 inches up to about 40 inches of range of motion in the power jerk. 
         [0047]    In a horizontal, seated row position, for example as used in Olympic rowing, all of the large muscle groups of the body, including legs, abdomen, back, shoulder, and arms, are used to apply the force through the body between the feet and the hands. A typical outdoorsman can apply up to about 75 pounds of force in the seated row position, with an average of about 40 pounds over the full stroke. A six-foot human body has up to about 45 inches of range of motion in the seated row position (and about up to 65 inches if the arms are extended beyond the head). 
         [0048]    Work or energy is measured in foot-pounds. When an operator applies an average of 45 pounds of force over a distance of 3.5 feet (i.e. 42 inches) about 157 foot-pounds of energy is applied. About the same amount of energy could also be stored by applying 57 pounds of force over a distance of 2.75 feet (i.e. 33 inches). 
         [0049]    What is needed is a method of setting up a blind where the full muscle strength of the human body from hands to feet can be used to quickly provide the skin tightening force to a lightweight, portable blind. 
         [0050]    Although arch shaped quickset blinds have been used with some success, the arch shape does not provide maximum headroom close to the walls, and a larger amount of energy must be stored in the arches to achieve skin tightness. 
         [0051]    What is needed is a structure where headroom is maximized near the walls of a blind or tent and where skin tightening forces are provided by relatively small mechanical movement. 
         [0052]    People spending time in the outdoors, especially warfighters, often have a need to quickly set up shelter for them and their equipment. 
         [0053]    What is needed is a tent that can be quickly deployed to provide protection from rain, snow, heat, and insects and reptiles. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0054]    Accordingly, it is an objective of the present invention to provide an easy to use, universal, simple, lightweight, compact, portable, quiet, multi-use modular system for concealment and shelter, which can additionally be rapidly set up using the large muscle groups of the full human body resulting in tight cover skin. The system includes novel angular frames and covers, and novel covers designed specially for wildlife observation and hunting, and for warfighters. 
       Objects and Advantages 
       [0055]    Accordingly, beside the objects and advantages described above, and in the parent applications, some additional objects and advantages of the present invention are:
   1. To provide a modular system of components that can be used to construct a variety of outdoor blinds and shelters.   2. To provide a modular system that can be used on steep terrain.   3. To provide methods of tightening a skin of a blind or tent to reduce undesired motion.   4. To provide a blind with upper opening, in addition to other horizontal openings, whereby the operator&#39;s line of sight is not obstructed vertically.   5. To provide a cover modules that can be used alone or as part of a more complex combination of components.   6. To provide shoot-through (or blackout sections) that can be moved to cover openings in a blind or shelter structure.   7. To provide shoot-through (or blackout sections) that can be moved to cover openings in a blind or shelter structure while maintaining skin tightness.   8. To provide a fully enclosed blind that allows unobstructed line of sight in 360 degrees of a substantially horizontal plane.   9. To provide a fully enclosed blind that allows unobstructed line of sight in 180 degrees in a substantially vertical plane on steep terrain.   10. To provide an improved wildlife research blind.   11. To provide an improved hunting blind.   12. To provide an improved military tent.   13. To provide unobstructed vision or shooting lanes.   14. To provide improved components and means of construction with lower cost and longer reliability.   15. To provide methods and means of tightening the skin on the sides of a cover to reduce movement and flutter.   16. To provide a blind window with four or more sections such that any section or groups of sections can be independently opened while maintaining taut cover panels.   17. To provide a low profile, quiet blind with optimum headroom.   18. To provide an arch flattening means for an arched structure where usable headroom under the arch is increased.   19. To provide an angular frame structure with improved headroom near the walls.   20. To provide an angular frame which provides significant skin tightening force with a relatively small mechanical change relative the distant between an upper plate and a lower plate.   21. To provide a dockless plate system.   22. To provide a quick setup frame that is strong enough to deploy without requiring spreading straps.   23. To provide a self locking safety means to protect an operator from unplanned release of force stored in a setup frame.   24. To provide shaft plates that provide structure strength and stability during initial spreading and during final stasis, resulting in smooth set up and improved durability.   25. To provide hand and foot attaching means to facilitate the set up of a blind using the power jerk position.
 
These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following specification, claims, and drawings.
   
 
     
    
     
       DRAWING FIGURES 
         [0081]    In the drawings, closely related figures have the same number but different alphabetic suffixes. 
           [0082]      FIG. 1A  and  FIG. 1B  show an attaching pivoting support and its use. 
           [0083]      FIG. 1C  shows ground blind configuration. 
           [0084]      FIG. 1D  shows pivoting arches. 
           [0085]      FIG. 2A  and  FIG. 2B  show a low profile blind with cover with quiet windows. 
           [0086]      FIG. 3A  through  FIG. 3C  show a fast setup frame. 
           [0087]      FIG. 4A  through  FIG. 4E  show features of docking assemblies and safety clips 
           [0088]      FIG. 5A  through  FIG. 5E  show various embodiments of covers with adjustable blackout, shoot-through, and star windows. 
           [0089]      FIG. 6A  and  FIG. 6B  summarize novel set up and take down of an embodiment of a fast setup frame. 
           [0090]      FIG. 7A  through  FIG. 7D  show features of a fast setup frame, including an automatic safety clip. 
           [0091]      FIG. 8A  through  FIG. 8C  show various embodiments and operation of covers with guylines and windows. 
           [0092]      FIG. 9A  and  FIG. 9E  illustrate features of a novel angular frame which is improved frame with fast set up. 
           [0093]      FIG. 10A  through  FIG. 10C  show various embodiments and operation of an angular frame with angular cover. 
           [0094]      FIG. 11A  through  FIG. 11E  show alternative embodiments and operation of an angular frame blind. 
           [0095]      FIG. 12A  through  FIG. 12I  show various details of embodiments of frames. 
           [0096]      FIG. 13A  through  FIG. 13D  show various configurations with inverted-T windows and guylines window, including use with the angular frame. 
           [0097]      FIG. 14A  through  FIG. 14H  illustrate novel set up and take down of the angular frame. 
           [0098]      FIG. 15A through 15C  show aspects and operation of an alternate method of using the full human body to set up an angular frame. 
           [0099]      FIG. 16A through 16D  show various details of embodiments of improved docking mechanisms. 
           [0100]      FIG. 17  shows various features of a currently preferred embodiment of the blind of the present invention. 
           [0101]      FIG. 18A  through  FIG. 18F  illustrate various embodiments, aspects and configurations of skins for the present invention. 
       
    
    
     REFERENCE NUMERALS IN DRAWINGS 
       [0000]    
       
         
           
               100  attaching pivoting support 
               106  shaft 
               126  elastic cord 
               130  attaching structure 
               140  bend 
               150  first leg 
               160  second leg 
               300  curtain 
               307  ( a - b ) alternate curtain 
               400  operator 
               410  path 
               686  ( a - d ) corner section 
               715  safety pin 
               727  self locking assembly 
               927  plate conduit 
               941  angular blind cover 
               942  angular cover 
               943  separation shaft 
               944  separation shaft tip 
               945  upper plate 
               946  lower plate 
               947  separation shaft stop 
               948  ( a - d )plate anchor 
               950  angular frame 
               952  ( a - d ) angular cover shaft 
               953  lower shaft 
               954  ( a - d ) stretcher shaft 
               956  ( a - d ) angular hinge 
               958  shaft plate 
               1140  three-legged angular frame 
               1142  three cornered angular cover 
               1210  top window fastener 
               1212   a  left window fastener 
               1212   b  right window fastener 
               1212  side window fastener 
               1220  triangle section 
               1230   b  right section 
               1230   a  left section 
               1262  upper handle 
               1263  pull rod 
               1264  handle strap 
               1266  lower handle 
               1268  handle bracket 
               1269  fastener 
               1511  cover shaft intersection 
               1512 ( a - d ) half arch cover shaft 
               1514 ( a - d ) arch flattening shaft 
               1516 ( a - d ) arch flattening hinge 
               1518 ( a - b ) hinge wall 
               1533  pull cord extension 
               1534  fast setup frame 
               1535  pull handle 
               1536  pull cord 
               1537  handle snap 
               1538  handle snap receiver 
               1539  handle standoff 
               1540  cover 
               1550  rain fly 
               1602 ( a - b ) opening 
               1612 ( a - b ) cover window 
               1621  pyramid cap 
               1622 ( a - d ) corner loop 
               1630  alternate cover 
               1631  cover cap 
               1632  overhead window 
               1634  door 
               1636  door fastener 
               1642  shoot-through panel 
               1646  quiet cover 
               1672  window roll 
               1686 ( a - d ) skirt strap 
               1704 ( a - d ) receiving clip 
               1705  safety strap 
               1706 ( a - d ) inserting clip 
               1714  safety clip cord 
               1715  safety clip 
               1716  safety clip edge 
               1717  round wire clip 
               1718  rectangular wire clip 
               1721  alternate dock 
               1722  intersection dock 
               1723  dock 
               1724  dock plate 
               1725  dock curved surface 
               1727  dock conduit 
               1728  washer nut 
               1742  docking assembly 
               1743  docking shaft 
               1744  docking tip 
               1745  safety grove 
               1746  docking plate 
               1763 ( a - d ) threaded axles 
               1776  hand grip 
               1778  hand guard 
               1790  foot attaching means 
               1792  foot plate 
               1794  gripping texture 
               1799  stirrup 
               1870  vertical hem 
               1880  simple cover 
               1882  cover with porch 
               1884  tent floor 
               1886  netting door 
               1888  netting 
               1910  guyline module 
               1912 ( a - d ) guyline 
               1920 ( a - b ) blackout panel 
               1922  see-through panel 
               1937  closable clip 
               2010  skirt 
               2050  skirt door 
               2160 ( a - b ) spreading strap 
               2162  wishbone strap 
               3094  locking channel 
               3102  sleeved support 
               3104  sleeve 
               3197 (a-d) half-length shaft segment 
               3199 ( a - l ) channeled shaft segment 
               3456  stake with cord clips and leg 
               3500  pivoting intersection connector 
               3700  pivoting arches 
               4400 ( a - d ) end piece with hook 
               4700 ( a - b ) magnet 
               4701  magnetic piece 
           
         
       
     
       SPECIAL DEFINITIONS 
       [0226]    cord—a flexible, and possibly elastic, filament including but not limited to a fiber, thread, string, rope, twine, wire, cable, yarn, thong, tendon, or line. 
         [0227]    curtain—a concealing or protecting sheet (or strips) of material. 
         [0228]    grommet—a flexible loop that serves as a fastening, support, or reinforcement or an eyelet of firm material to strengthen or protect an opening or to insulate or protect something passed through it. 
         [0229]    eyelet—a typically metal or plastic reinforcement for a hole. 
         [0230]    shaft—a supporting member in construction including but not limited to any solid or hollow, round or rectangular bar, beam, pole, rod, spar, or tube composed of wood, plastic, metal, or composite material. 
       DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0231]    The present invention comprises an easy to use, simple, lightweight, compact, portable modular system for concealment and shelter and methods for its construction and use. The main components of a basic module are various novel supports and a curtain. The support attaches to a structure and pivots at the attachment. Other modules include novel covers with cover shafts, a removable floor, a rain fly, and various novel flies and shields. The modules can be combined to form various tree blinds, ground blinds, waterfowl blinds, blinds attached to vessels or vehicles, and various shelters. The system uses novel shaft segments that can be attached in various configurations and then broken down without detaching the attachments. The present invention encompasses various embodiments of the attaching pivoting support as well as various embodiments of curtains with various features. A method of the present invention allows for 360-degree concealment. In addition to a method of being fully enclosed, a method of the present invention is based on the concept of “hiding in front” of a similar pattern. 
         [0232]    The present invention is also directed to various structures and methods for skin tightening for a shelter or blind, especially hunting blinds. Novel frame structures are used to stretch and thereby tighten the skin of a hunting blind. The present invention includes the discovery that when a cover is stretched over an arched dome, the lower portion of each cover wall is relatively loose. Various solutions to this problem are provided. Various prior attempts to provide lightweight portable blinds with cover skins that remain tight in blustery, hunting conditions have failed because the structure is too weak and/or the set up method does not allow a human operator to apply a sufficient force to the skin tightening mechanism. The present invention includes novel structures and methods that allow the large muscle groups of the full human body to apply a skin stretching force to set up a blind with previously unrealized results. 
       FIG. 1A Through FIG. 1C 
       [0233]      FIG. 1A  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an attaching pivoting support  100 . The support  100  is bent at an angle. The bend  140  results in two legs: a first leg  150  and a second leg  160 . The first leg  150  has a threaded portion for threaded attachment to an attaching structure  130  ( FIG. 1B ), such as a tree, pole, rock, wall, or attaching fastener  230  (not shown—see parent applications). The bend  140  allows a user to exert a force on the second leg  160  that acts as a lever to screw the first leg  150  into the attaching structure  130 . 
         [0234]    The angle of the bend  140  is shown as a 90-degree angle; however, good results have also been obtained by using an obtuse angle. An obtuse angle still provides a leveraged force but is less likely to cause the second leg  160  to be blocked by tree branches or other obstructions. 
         [0235]    The attaching pivoting support  100  can be constructed of a single shaft. However, depending on construction materials, a lighter embodiment can be constructed by combining various components. This invention anticipates that any combination of parts can be used to make the attaching pivoting support  100  with equivalent structural features and functions. The embodiment shown in  FIG. 1A  is merely on example of those disclosed in the parent applications. 
         [0236]      FIG. 1A  shows a currently preferred embodiment the attaching pivoting support  100  comprised of the sleeved support  3102  and the second leg  160  comprised of a plurality of channeled shaft segments  3199 . Additional details and alternatives of construction and advantages regarding  FIG. 1A  are provided in the POLE1 application included herein by reference. 
       FIG. 1B 
       [0237]      FIG. 1B  shows an operator  400  concealed by a support  100  and a curtain  300 . The operator  400  may be washing or taking care of other personal hygiene. 
         [0238]    The means of concealment quickly and quietly can be lowered as shown by an angular path  410 . This allows the operator  400  to look over the curtain  300  or to shoot an arrow or fire a gun behind them without being obstructed by the means of concealment. After firing, the user can quickly and quietly return the curtain  300  to its normal position as shown. 
         [0239]    The curtain may contain one more slits (not shown) through which the operator may look or shoot. 
         [0240]    One objective and advantage of the present invention is maintaining the frictional force of the first leg  150  with the attaching structure  130 . This frictional force holds the attaching pivoting support  100  in place when not being moved by the operator  400 . The operator  400  can also angularly raise the support  100  so that the operator&#39;s head is also concealed by curtain  300 . 
       FIG. 1C 
       [0241]      FIG. 1C  shows the use of three stakes (e.g. stake with cord clips and leg  3456 ) and two curtains  300  to form a ground blind. In this example, the stakes ( 3456 ) are inserted into the ground. Each stake ( 3456 ) is connected to a shaft  106  (not visible). Curtains  300   a  and  300   b  are supported by the shafts  106 . The stakes  3456  can be placed in a line to form a wall, or diagonally to form a V-shaped blind. 
         [0242]    Three or more curtains  300  could be used to form a fully enclosed ground blind. 
       FIG. 1D 
       [0243]      FIG. 1D  illustrates a pair of pivoting arches  3700 . The pair of pivoting arches  3700  comprises an embodiment of pivoting intersection connector  3500  (or  3500   b ) and a plurality of full-length channeled shaft segments  3199  or half-length shaft segments  3197 . In one embodiment, the pair of pivoting arches  3700  comprises three full-length channeled shaft segments  3199  and one half-length shaft segment  3197  on each side of each arch (as shown). 
       FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B 
       [0244]      FIG. 2A  and  FIG. 2B  show the low profile blind with cover with quiet windows. 
         [0245]      FIG. 2A  shows a quiet cover  1646  that embodies a novel three-tiered cover. The top tier comprises a cover cap  1631 . The middle tier comprises a ring of windows  1612  that are held open or closed with novel magnetic connections. The bottom tier is a skirt  2010  (which is proportionally smaller than the skirt  2010  disclosed for example in  FIG. 17  and in the related applications, i.e. the MOC3 application). 
         [0246]    The magnetic connections, between magnets  4700  and magnetic pieces  4701 , are a novel means for maintaining tight cover skin on the walls of a blind, while allowing quiet operation of the windows. In this regard magnets are preferred over zippers  1633  and hook and loop fasteners  530  (shown in the related applications). Each window  1612  has a magnetic piece  4701  attached to the lower edge of the window  1612 , or sewn in the hem. 
         [0247]      FIG. 2A  shows the windows being held closed and taut using the magnetic connection between the lower magnet  4700   b  and the magnetic piece  4701  in the edge of the corresponding window  1612 . 
         [0248]      FIG. 2B  shows the left front window  1612   a  being held open using the magnetic connection between the upper magnet  4700   a  and the magnetic piece  4701 . The right front window  1612   d  is held partially closed by its respective magnetic connection. The operator  400  is also shown positioned within smaller, lightweight, portable, quick popup, quiet cover  1646  embodiment. All of the components are attached together (for example via cover loops  1622 —not shown) so there are no parts to lose. This embodiment is simpler, smaller, lighter, and lower cost than the other full size, fuller function blind embodiments. 
       FIG. 3A Through FIG. 3C 
       [0249]    As discussed above, there is a need for embodiments of blinds and tents that can be set up rapidly and standalone in a variety of configurations.  FIG. 3A  through  FIG. 3C  show various aspects and configurations of an embodiment of a fast setup frame  1534 . 
         [0250]      FIG. 3A  shows a novel fast setup frame  1534 . The fast setup frame  1534  comprises a cover shaft intersection  1511  comprising a novel intersection dock  1722 , an arch flattening means comprising a novel docking assembly  1742 , and a pull cord  1536  for operating the arch flattening means. 
         [0251]    A plurality of hinged cover shafts  1512  attach by hinges to the cover shaft intersection  1511 , so that each hinged cover shaft  1512  comprise half an arch. Thus, the hinged cover shafts  1512  are also referred to as half arch cover shafts  1512 .  FIG. 3A  shows embodiments with four half arch cover shafts identified as  1512   a  through  1512   d . Similar fast setup frames  1534  could be comprised of three or more half arch cover shafts (see, for example,  FIG. 11C  showing three shafts) 
         [0252]    This embodiment of the arch flattening means comprising a docking assembly  1742  and a plurality of arch flattening shafts  1514  ( a - d ) each connected to the respective half arch cover shafts  1512  ( a - d ) with a respective, novel arch flattening hinge  1516  ( a - d ). Each arch flattening shaft  1514  ( a - d ) is also connected to the docking assembly  1742 , in this embodiment, with a hinge. 
         [0253]    The pull cord  1536  preferably is attached at one end to a pull handle  1535 . 
         [0254]    The free ends of the half arch cover shafts  1512  each have an end piece means for attaching the fast setup frame  1534  to a cover  1540  (not shown). The end piece means are shown as end pieces with hook  4400  ( a - d ), respectively. 
         [0255]      FIG. 3B  shows that, when the arch flattening means, shown comprising the novel docking assembly  1742 , is pulled toward and engaged with the cover shaft intersection  1511 , shown comprising the novel intersection dock  1722 , using the pull cord  1536 , the arch is flattened. This arch flattening results on a outward and upward skin tightening force being applied through the half arch cover shafts  1512  along the cover corners, as presented by the force arrows. With the novel features and methods of the present invention as described below, the human operator is able to apply a stronger skin tightening force over a longer working distance than is possible with convention means and methods. 
         [0256]      FIG. 3C  shows an embodiment of the fast setup frame  1534  with four half arch cover shafts identified as  1512   a  through  1512   d . This embodiment shows another embodiment of the safety means comprising a safety strap  1705  having receiving clip  1704  and an inserting clip  1706 . When fully docked, the operator applies the safety strap. 
       FIG. 4A Through FIG. 4E 
       [0257]      FIG. 4A  shows various novel details of embodiments of the novel docking assembly  1742 , the novel intersection dock  1722 , the novel arch flattening hinge  1516 , and a novel pull handle  1535 . 
         [0258]    The novel docking assembly  1742  comprises a docking plate  1746  and a docking shaft  1743  integrally attached to the docking plate  1746 . The docking shaft  1743  has a rounded docking tip  1744  and an optional safety groove  1745 . In this novel embodiment the docking plate  1746  is preferably about 3 to 4 inches or more in diameter and is sufficiently thick enough to provide substantial wall mechanical force against the sides of the respective arch flattening shafts  1514  ( a - d ). In this embodiment, the pull cord  1536  passes through the center of the docking assembly. 
         [0259]    The novel intersection dock  1722  comprises a novel dock plate  1724  and a dock  1723  integrally attached to the dock plate  1724 . The dock plate  1724  features a plate hole  1769  extended to form a dock conduit  1727 . The dock  1723  is shown with a novel outward curved surface  1725  for engaging the docking tip  1744  of the docking shaft  1743  when it is out of alignment. The dock curved surface  1725  gradually flattens to guide the docking shaft  1743  into the dock conduit  1727 . In this novel embodiment dock plate  1724  is preferably about 4 inches or more in diameter and is sufficiently thick enough to provide substantial wall mechanical force against the sides of half arch cover shafts  1512  ( a - d ). In this embodiment, the pull cord  1536  passes through the center of the dock  1723  and dock conduit  1727 . 
         [0260]    The dock conduit  1727  is at least partially threaded on the exterior of its extension so that it can receive a washer nut  1728 . The washer nut  1728  is used to hold the cover  1540  (not shown) material out of the dock conduit  1727  so material does not interfere with the operation of the docking shaft  1743  (see  FIG. 20A ). Optionally, the washer nut  1728  also holds an embodiment of a foot attaching means  1790 , such as foot plate  1792  with gripping texture  1794  as shown. 
         [0261]    The arch flattening hinge  1516  is integrally part of the hinged cover shaft  1512  ( a - d ) and has hinge walls  1518  ( a - b ). The arch flattening shaft  1514  is connected to the arch flattening hinge  1516 . 
         [0262]    The novel pull handle  1535  retains the pull cord  1536 , preventing the pull cord  1536  from passing through the intersection dock  1722  and providing tension when the operator  400  (not shown) wants to assert a force through the pull cord. The pull handle  1535  preferably comprises integral hand grips  1776  for operator comfort and more secure grasp. The pull handle  1535  also preferably comprises a handle standoff  1539  which holds the handle in a known position that is easy to grasp while setting up the blind using the novel method shown for example in  FIG. 6A , or the sequence from  14 A to  14 H, in particular at the transition from  FIG. 14D  to  FIG. 14E . 
         [0263]    The pull handle  1535  also preferably comprises a handle snap receiver  1538  that allows the pull handle  1535  to be temporarily locked onto a corresponding handle snap  1537  on the dock conduit  1727 . The handle snap  1537  and a handle snap receiver  1538  could be molded as a groove and ring as shown; however, the handle snap means preferably is manufactured as a groove in each part with an O-ring providing the snap. The handle snap means is advantageous to avoid damage or injury or to provide a secure starting point when pulling the pull cord  1536  from the other end as shown, for example, in  FIG. 15A  and  FIG. 15C . 
         [0264]    As exemplary shown in  FIG. 4A  and  FIG. 4B , the dock conduit  1727  is only partially threaded allowing the handle standoff  1539  to fit over the dock conduit  1727  above the washer nut  1728 , and allowing room for the handle snap  1537  (or other embodiment of the handle snap means). 
         [0265]      FIG. 4B  is a cross sectional view of the intersection dock  1722  and the docking assembly  1742  having the same referenced items as  FIG. 4A . It further shows the position of an optional hand grip  1776  and hand guard  1778  that would be used with an alternate embodiment as discussed in reference to  FIG. 15A  and  FIG. 15C . The hand guard  1778  is of sufficient shape to engage the dock plate  1724  or half arch cover shaft  1512  before the operator&#39;s hand or fingers would be squeezed between the approaching parts. 
         [0266]    As shown in  FIG. 4A  and  FIG. 4B , the half arch cover shafts  1512  ( a - d ) hinge on the dock plate  1724  and the arch flattening shafts  1514  ( a - d ) hinge on the docking plate  1746 . Like the arch flattening hinge  1516  ( a - d ), the hinge positions in the plates ( 1724  and  1746 ) are thick enough to form flat walls on either side of the shaft ends  1513  ( a - d ). The optional safety groove  1745  shown, for example, in  FIG. 4A  and  FIG. 4B  provides an embodiment of a safety means in combination with a safety clip  1715  ( FIG. 4C ). 
         [0267]      FIG. 4C  shows a preferred embodiment of the safety clip  1715  which may be attached to the blind with safety clip cord  1714 . This embodiment is made from a flat piece of metal or plastic with a central hole that provides a safety clip edge  1716  which mates securely with the safety groove  1745  ( FIG. 4B ). When fully docked, the operator applies the safety clip  1715 . The safety means prevents the unplanned release of the energy stored in the fast setup frame  1534 . The safety means is removed before collapsing the blind (e.g. before  FIG. 14H ). 
         [0268]      FIG. 4D  shows a round wire clip  1717  embodiment of the safety clip  1715  ( FIG. 4C ) made with round spring wire as is commonly known. 
         [0269]      FIG. 4E  shows a rectangular wire clip  1718  embodiment of the safety clip  1715  made with rectangular spring wire, which has a more securely mating safety clip edge  1716 , than the round wire clip  1717 . 
         [0270]    However the embodiment of a safety clip  1715  shown in  FIG. 4C  is currently preferred because it a larger flat surface area making it more visible to the operator and easier to grasp. Further, this embodiment could be colored orange or red such that the operator would be less likely to forget to apply the safety means. An alternative safety means, namely a safety strap  1705  is discussed below in relation to  FIG. 12D  through  FIG. 12F . 
       FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B 
       [0271]      FIG. 5A  shows a covered blind  1540  ( 1621  or  1631 ) with vertical guyline modules ( 1910 , as previously disclosed in the related applications, e.g. the MOC3 application). The panels  1920  and  1922  can slide past each other because each is attached on each side by a different guyline  1912  ( FIG. 5B ). The operator can position the panels to cover the opening  1602  as shown on the right (with blackout panel  1920 ) or with a portion of the opening  1602  covered by one panel (e.g. the blackout panel  1920  on the left) and with another portion covered by the other panel (e.g. the see-through panel  1922  on the left). Note that the panels can slide behind the cover  1540  (or  942 ) above or the curtain  300  (or skirt  2010 , not shown) below because of the novel features of the modular systems. Horizontally guylines were previous disclosed as well. 
         [0272]      FIG. 5B  shows embodiments of guylines  1912  attached to the walls of the cover skin  1540 . Guylines in the walls help maintain the wall tension that helps keep the walls taut and reduce motion or noise that may be detectable by wildlife.  FIG. 5B  illustrates two exemplary openings  1602   a  and  1602   b , respectively in a cover  1540 . A blackout panel  1920   a  slides vertically up and down over opening  1602   a  along guylines  1912   a  and  1912   b  and is held tightly in place by the novel use of a row of magnets  4700  at the edge of the opening  1602   a . When in this closed position the wall tension is maintained through the blackout panel  1920   a  via the magnetic connection with the magnets  4700  as well as by the guylines  1912   a  and  1912   b . A blackout panel  1920   b  also slides vertically up and down over opening  1602   b  along guylines  1912   c  and  1912   d  and is exemplary shown in the open position, revealing the see-through panel  1922  (or shoot-through panel  1642 ) which likewise is held tightly in place by the novel use of a row of magnets  4700  at the edge of the opening  1602   b . A row of magnetic pieces  4701  is attached to, or in the hem of, the sliding panels ( 1920  or  1922 ) or the fixed shoot-through panel  1642 . In the example on the right (i.e. over opening  1602   b ) the wall tension is always maintained via the magnetic connection with the row of magnets  4700  and corresponding rows of magnetic pieces  4701  as well as by the guylines  1912   c  and  1912   d . Maintaining tension on the shoot-through panel  1642  also reduces the interference with the flight of an arrow, for example. 
         [0273]    The magnetic connections, between magnets  4700  and magnetic pieces  4701 , provide a novel method of maintaining tight cover skin on the walls of a blind, while allowing quiet operation of the windows. In this regard magnets are preferred over zippers  1633  and hook and loop fasteners  530  (shown in the related applications). 
       FIG. 5C Through FIG. 5D 
       [0274]      FIG. 5C  and  FIG. 5D  show operation of covers with guylines and windows. 
         [0275]      FIG. 5C  shows a quiet cover  1646  that embodies a novel three-tiered cover. The top tier comprises a cover cap  1631 . The middle tier comprises a ring of windows  1612  that are optionally held open or closed with novel magnetic connections between magnets  4700  and magnetic pieces  4701  (not shown—discussed above). The bottom tier is a skirt  2010 . 
         [0276]    The cover cap  1631  is connected to the skirt  2010  along the corners with skirt strap  1686  ( a - d ). This is illustrated with skirt straps  1686   a  and  1686   d.    
         [0277]    This embodiment also shows the novel use vertical guylines  1912 . In this embodiment the window  1612  material is sandwiched and held up between two sections of guylines  1912 . A plurality of guylines are shown across the middle of each cover panel wall. Like the skirt strap  1686  in the corners, the guylines  1912  connect the material of the cover cap  1631  to the material skirt  2010 , and thus help to maintain the skin tightening wall tension, even when one or more of the windows  1612  are open. The guylines  1912  also sandwich the material of the windows  1612  so that it does not flutter in the wind. 
         [0278]    The bottom corners of the middle tier windows  1612  of the quiet cover  1646  are shown preferably, removably clipped to the skirt  2010  with clips, identified in each respective corner as receiving clips  1704  ( a - d ) and inserting clips  1706  ( a - d ). These clips help maintain the wall tension which keeps the blind cover skin taut. 
         [0279]      FIG. 5D  shows the embodiment of  FIG. 5C  with each of the visible windows pulled down and each of the corner clips connected. 
         [0280]    Alternatively, the windows  1612  or panels ( 1910  or  1920 , such as in  FIG. 5A  and  FIG. 5B ) can be attached to straps with adjustable buckles that hold the window or panel material in place. 
       FIG. 5E 
       [0281]      FIG. 5E  shows an embodiment of the cover  1540  having a star window with a door  1634 . Five window fasteners comprise a star-like layout  1590  with each window fastener being one of the five parts of the star. A top window fastener  1210  extends upward from the center. The star window layout  1590  comprises multiple sections between the fasteners, including a triangle section  1220 , with a left section  1230   a  and a right section  1230   b  on either side. A simpler window  1612  is also shown. 
       FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B 
       [0282]      FIG. 6A  and  FIG. 6B  show parts of a novel set up method of the fast setup frame  1534 . This sequence is shown using the alternate spreading strap means comprising two spreading straps  2160  ( a - b ). The currently preferred wishbone strap  2162  (not shown here) could also be used substantially as described below. 
         [0283]    As disclosed in more detail in the parent application, the operator  400  carries the blind using the spreading strap means, shown as the two spreading straps  2160 , over a shoulder. Next the operator  400  places the collapsed blind on the ground. 
         [0284]    The operator aligns his body along the axis of the blind and placing his feet against the apex of the blind preferably using a foot attaching means  1790 . The operator applies an initial spreading force by lifting and spreading the spreading strap means until the blind begins to open. The operator  400  leans back as the fast setup frame  1534  begins to open.  FIG. 6A  shows the operator  400  holding the spreading strap means with one hand (either with both spreading straps  2160  in one hand, or preferably, with the one hand sliding down the wishbone strap  2162  (not shown) along the long strap). While the operator  400  continues to lean back, the other hand makes a smooth transition to the pull handle  1535 . By leaning back, the blind continues to open and the operator  400  lifts the apex of the blind off the ground using the foot attaching means  1790 . 
         [0285]      FIG. 6B  shows the operator  400  at the end of the seated row stroke. The pull cord  1536  has been moved the full range of motion necessary to engage the docking mechanism of the arch flattening means. The operator has released the spreading strap means (e.g.  2160 , shown hanging free). The operator has grasped the pull handle  1535  during the stroke with both hands while continuing to lift the apex of the blind with the foot attaching means  1790 . Using this method the operator has been able to apply a cover skin tightening force using a plurality of large muscle groups of the full body from the hands to the feet, whereby the blind is rapidly set up (in only a few seconds). The arch flattening means stores and transfers the force to the arch cover shafts  1512  (not shown). In turn, the arch cover shafts  1512  stretch the cover panels  1542  (not shown) with sufficient force that cover skin is held taut without substantial movement or noise detectable by wildlife. The force applied by the human body over the range of movement is greater than a force possible with just the arms and shoulders of the conventional methods. 
         [0286]    It is during this transition from  FIG. 21D  to  FIG. 21E  that the second advantage of the flat walls in the various hinges is used. This transition puts a large stress on the frame as it tightens the skin. The mechanical stability provided by the tight hinges help align the docking mechanism. 
       FIG. 7A Through FIG. 7D 
       [0287]      FIG. 7A  through  FIG. 7D  show various features of an embodiment of a fast setup frame  1534  ( FIG. 3B ) shown exemplarily with the quiet cover  1646  and a novel self locking assembly  727  as a safety means. 
         [0288]      FIG. 7A  shows the collapsed fast setup frame  1534  where the pull handle  1535  is necessarily close to the top of the blind. However when the fast setup frame  1534  is deployed the pull handle  1535  is used to pull the docking tip  1744  through the self locking assembly  727  via the pull cord  1536  ( FIG. 7B ). The self locking assembly  727  comprises a safety pin  715  which is spring loaded inside the horizontal housing (see magnified portion in  FIG. 7D ). The safety pin  715  is a safety means with similar function to those shown in  FIG. 4C  through  FIG. 4E . When the safety groove  1745  slides through the dock conduit  1727  the safety pin  715  automatically engages the safety groove  1745  and locks the docking shaft  1743  in place, until the operator  400  (shown in  FIG. 7S ) comes outside the fast setup frame  1534  to pull the safety pin  715  prior to collapsing the frame. Thus, the safety pin  715  retains the docking shaft  1743  to prevent unplanned passage back through dock conduit  1727 , which would result in an unplanned release of energy in the fast setup frame  1534 . 
         [0289]    The advantages of the self locking assembly  727  are that the operator  400  does not risk forgetting to attach the safety means and that the operator must physically be outside the blind (i.e. away from the possible head injury hazard) when the frame is collapsed (similar to the position shown in  FIG. 14H ). 
       FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B 
       [0290]      FIG. 8A  shows a quiet cover  1646  that embodies a novel three-tiered cover (previously shown with fewer features in the embodiment of  FIG. 2A ). The top tier comprises a cover cap  1631 . The middle tier comprises a ring of windows  1612 . The bottom tier is a skirt  2010 . 
         [0291]    The cover cap  1631  is connected to the skirt  2010  along the corners with corner sections  686  ( a - d ). Similar to the structure shown in  FIG. 5B , the corner sections provide for taut skin. 
         [0292]    This embodiment also shows the novel use vertical guylines  1912 . Unlike  FIG. 5A  and  FIG. 5B , where the sliding panels  1920  or  1922  are attached to the guylines  1912 , in this embodiment the window  1612  material is sandwiched and held up between two sections of guylines  1912 . A plurality of guylines are shown across the middle of each cover panel wall. Like the corner section  686  in the corners, the guylines  1912  connect the material of the cover cap  1631  to the material of skirt  2010 , and thus help to maintain the skin tightening wall tension, even when one or more of the windows  1612  are open. The guylines  1912  also sandwich the material of the windows  1612  so that it does not flutter in the wind. 
         [0293]      FIG. 8B  shows the embodiment of  FIG. 8A  with each of the visible windows pulled down. 
         [0294]      FIG. 8C  shows the embodiment of  FIG. 8A  further showing see-through panels  1922 , similar to the see through panels  1992  shown and explained with reference to  FIG. 2A  and  FIG. 5A . 
       Improved Designs 
       [0295]    Although the enclosed blinds and tents with frames comprising arches shown earlier have had good results there are some problems with these structures. While the arch is high in the middle, as the user moves toward the walls, there is reduced headroom. In many situations, the user does not want their head in the middle, rather they want their head closer to the walls. For example a pair of hunters will sit near the back wall in respective corners so that they each have room to move their equipment (e.g. rifle, bow, or camera) and to avoid direct sunlight reflecting off their faces. If more than one person is in a blind or tent they both can&#39;t be in the middle. For example, two warfighters will want to be able to stand up, kneel, or sit on their respective sides of a tent, rather than moving to the middle to get more headroom. 
         [0296]    While the arch structure previously disclosed for tightening skin on a blind has had great success, there is concern about the amount of energy stored in the structure and force the would be exerted by the lower hub should the energy be unexpectedly be released while a person was inside.  FIGS. 9A through 16D  relate to improvements over our previous embodiments, including embodiments with an angular frame which provide improved headroom and reduce the range of motion required to release the skin tightening stored energy. 
       FIG. 9A Through FIG. 9E 
       [0297]      FIG. 9A  illustrates an embodiment of a fully deployed and erected angular frame  950  covered by an angular cover  942 . In this embodiment as shown, the collapsible, quick popup angular frame results in a structure that has improved headroom near the walls of the blind or tent. 
         [0298]    The advantage of the angular frame  950  over the fast setup frame  1534  is that fiberglass rods bent under tension over time eventually break especially if heated and cooled by changes in sunlight and outside temperature. The novel angular frame  950  does not require the fiberglass to be under as much tension therefore prolonging the life of the frame. 
         [0299]      FIG. 9B  through  FIG. 9E  show various aspects of the operation of an angular frame  950  used by the angular shelter shown in  FIG. 9A . 
         [0300]      FIG. 9B  show a novel angular frame  950  comprising angular cover shafts  952  ( a - d ) and lower shafts  953  ( a - d ) connected together by angular hinges  956  ( a - d ). A novel upper plate  945  connects the angular cover shafts  952  ( a - d ). Exemplary details of the upper plate  945  and lower plate  946  interconnections are detailed for various embodiments explained in reference to  FIG. 12A ,  FIGS. 16B and 16D . Each angular cover shaft  952  ( a - d ) is shown connected to respective stretcher shafts  954  ( a - d ) at shaft plates  958  ( a - d ) (see  FIGS. 12G ,  12 H and  12 I for exemplary details). Stretcher shafts  954  ( a - d ) also connect to a novel lower plate  946 . 
         [0301]      FIG. 9C  illustrates that the angular frame can be folded to about half the length of the angular cover shafts  952  to collapse into a narrow bundle. When deployed the plates ( 945  and  946 ) are brought together, opening the angular frame  950 . The angular hinge  956  allows the connecting lower shaft  953  to rotate from parallel to a predetermined angle. 
         [0302]      FIG. 9D  illustrates the lower shafts  953  rotated downward to a the predetermined angle.  FIG. 9D  also illustrates a novel method of deploying the angular frame  950  using the full body strength of the operator  400 . A pull cord  1536  preferably is attached at one end to a pull handle  1535 . In this method the pull cord  1536  is pulled through the lower plate  946  and attached to a foot attaching means  1790 . The operator  400  presses up on the lower plate  946  while using the large muscles of the back and legs through a foot to apply a skin tightening force. The force of the body is transferred via the pull cord  1536  to the upper plate  945 . 
         [0303]      FIG. 9E  illustrates a fully deployed and erected angular frame  950 . 
         [0304]    In  FIG. 9B through 9E  the angular cover  942  was not shown so that the operation of the angular frame  950  could be illustrated. 
       FIG. 10A Through FIG. 10C 
       [0305]      FIG. 10A  illustrates the angular frame  950  in an upright position just before the plates ( 945  and  1946 ) are engaged. The angular cover  942  is loose over the angular frame  950 .  FIG. 10B  illustrates a fully deployed angular frame  950 . A small mechanical movement within the novel angular frame results in a significant outward and upward skin tightening force being applied throughout the angular cover  942  by the lower shafts  953  when deflected into the position as illustrated in  FIG. 10C . 
         [0306]    In contrast to the arched, fast setup frame  1534  (as shown in  FIG. 3B ) where the skin tightening force (as shown in  FIG. 6B ) is supplied by the bow of the half arch cover shafts  1512 , the angular frame  950  provides a significant outward force on the lower shafts  953  by a mechanical rotation actuated by a relatively small shift in relative position of the lower plate  946  toward the upper plate  945 . 
       FIG. 11A Through FIG. 11E 
       [0307]      FIG. 11A  shows a low profile embodiment of the angular frame  950  design for a single operator  400 . The shafts  952  and  953  are both designed to be preferably about two feet long. This allows the collapsed blind to easily be carried on a backpack or waist pack. When deployed the blind provides about three feet of useful headroom. This allows a single operator to sit comfortable within the concealment and protection from sun, rain, snow, and wind provided by the blind. Note that for the single operator version the angle of the angular hinge  956  is more obtuse than for a more typical larger structure, e.g. as shown in  FIG. 10C . The separation shaft  943  is longer in length to facilitate the shape of this single operator frame than would be needed for larger structures with flatter roofs, for example, such as shown in  FIG. 10C . 
         [0308]      FIG. 11B  shows an embodiment of an angular cover  942  having overhead window  1632  and cover window  1612  with guylines  1912 . 
         [0309]      FIG. 11C  shows an embodiment of the angular frame  950  comprising a three-legged angular frame  1140 . Corresponding parts have been previously described. The shape of the plates and the location of the plate anchors  948  are modified accordingly. 
         [0310]      FIG. 11D  shows an embodiment of the angular frame  950  of  FIG. 11C  with three cornered angular cover  1142 . 
         [0311]      FIG. 11E  shows a single operator angular frame  950  configured for use on a hillside. The uphill lower shaft(s)  953  are folded up at angular hinge  956 , and the angular cover  942  is rolled up on the uphill side. 
       FIG. 12A Through FIG. 12F 
       [0312]      FIG. 12A  is a cross sectional view of an improved docking mechanism. Stretcher shafts  954  ( a - d ) respectively connect to plate anchors  948  ( a - d ) on a novel lower plate  946 . The separation shaft  943  is connected to the lower plate  946 . Angular cover shafts  952  ( a - d ) connect to plate anchors  948  ( a - d ) respectively on a novel upper plate  945 . The upper handle  1262  is threaded by the handle strap  1264 . The handle strap  1264 , which is suspended below the upper plate  945 , is attached to the top of the upper plate  945  by two fasteners  1269 . The threaded upper handle  1262 , after fastening, is allowed to dangle beneath the upper plate  945 . The lower handle  1266  is attached to the lower plate  946  by a rigid handle bracket  1268 . This handle bracket  1268  is attached to the bottom of the lower plate  946  by two fasteners  1269 . The dashed lines shown for handle strap  1264  are at an angle to the cross-section as more clearly shown in  FIG. 12D . 
         [0313]    By pushing up on lower handle  1266  while simultaneously pulling down on the upper handle  1262 , the separation shaft top  944  is guided through the plate conduit  927  on the upper plate  945  and the separation shaft  943  is inserted up to the separation shaft stop  947 . 
         [0314]      FIG. 12B  illustrates a novel method of deploying the angular frame  950  using only the upper body strength of the operator  400 . The operator  400  pushes up on lower handle  1266  while simultaneously pulling down on the upper handle  1262  to apply a skin tightening force to the angular frame  950 . This requires the use of upper body strength only and provides a significant advantage of deployment of the angular frame  950  over the arched frame which requires the use of the full body including the legs ( FIG. 6B  and  FIG. 9D ). 
         [0315]      FIG. 12C  shows a single operator profile embodiment of the angular frame  950  design for a single operator  400 . The operator  400  uses the lower handle  1266  and upper handle  1262  to apply a skin tightening force to the angular cover  942  of the angular frame  950 . 
         [0316]      FIG. 12D  through  FIG. 12F  show perspective views of embodiments of alternate improved docking mechanisms. 
         [0317]      FIG. 12D  is a perspective view of  FIG. 12A  with added safety straps  1705  and clips comprising inserting clip  1706  and receiving clip  1704 . Mounting the safety strap  1705  on the handle strap  1264  keeps the receiving clip  1704  out of the area between the plate conduit  927  and separation shaft tip  944  where it may otherwise be damaged. 
         [0318]      FIG. 12E  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of  FIG. 12D  which uses pull rod  1263  instead of upper handle  1262 . Mounting as short safety strap  1705  on the upper and lower plates  945  and  946  also keeps the receiving clip  1704  out of the area between the plate conduit  927  and separation shaft tip  944  where it may otherwise be damaged. 
         [0319]      FIG. 12F  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of  FIG. 12D  which uses hand grip  1776  and hand guard  1778  instead of upper handle  1262 . 
       FIG. 12G Through FIG. 12I 
       [0320]      FIG. 12G through 12I  show details of the shaft plate  958  connection to the stretcher shaft  954 . The end of stretcher shaft  954  that interfaces with the shaft plate  958  is preferably flat and tight on either side of the shaft plate  958 , such that the stretcher shaft  954  applies an advantageous mechanical force against the shaft plate  958 . The stretcher shaft  954  could be composed out of solid, machined or molded, metal or a fiberglass shaft with a metal tip. 
         [0321]      FIG. 12G  shows the position of the shaft plate  958  and the stretcher shaft  954  when the frame is fully collapsed,  FIG. 12H  shows the position of the shaft plate  958  and the stretcher shaft  954  when the frame is being set up.  FIG. 12I  shows the position of the shaft plate  958  and the stretcher shaft  954  when the frame is fully set up. 
         [0322]    When the blind is initially being spread the shaft plate  958  connection provides an advantageous lateral force to cause the angular frame  950  to start to open. The tightness and mechanical area of the connection is especially helpful when the frame is in the horizontal position as required by the method shown in  FIG. 14C  through  FIG. 14E . It also increases the durability of the frame. 
         [0323]    The shaft plate  958  and the stretcher shaft  954  connection provides a second advantageous force to the angular frame  950 , at point where the separation shaft tip  944  enters the plate conduit  927 , to help ensure proper alignment. Further, when the frame is fully set up, it continues to provide stabilizing forces and strength within the angular frame  950  to limit motion and breakage. 
       FIG. 13A Through FIG. 13D 
       [0324]      FIG. 13A  shows a currently preferred embodiment of the blind in a low profile, rifle hunting configuration. The blind is low to the ground with the extensions  4410  removed or folded inside the angular cover  942  (not visible). The middle tier windows  1612  are closed because they are close to the ground. For situations where it is desired to stay low to the ground and shoot towards the sky, the operator  400  can lie inside the angular frame and rise up through the overhead opening of the top window fastener  1210  when desired. 
         [0325]      FIG. 13B  shows a currently preferred embodiment of the blind in a dove blind configuration. On two of the four corners, the extensions  4410  are removed or folded inside the angular cover  942  (not visible) moving the apex of the blind away from directly overhead. The middle tier windows  1612  are closed. The operator  400  can sit on a chair inside the blind having good visibility through the opening and stand up whenever desired. 
         [0326]      FIG. 13C  shows a currently preferred embodiment of the blind in a waterfowl configuration. On two of the four corners, the extensions  4410  removed or folded inside the angular cover  942  (not visible) moving the apex of the blind away from directly overhead. The middle tier windows  1612  are closed. The two, interconnect inverted-T windows are completely opened allowing the top to be completely open and rolled down. 
         [0327]      FIG. 13D  shows a currently preferred embodiment of the blind in a hillside or rough terrain configuration. On two of the four corners, the extensions  4410  are removed or folded inside the angular cover  942  (not visible) allowing the blind to be level. The middle tier cover windows  1612  are opened in part and are held quietly in place by the guylines  1912 . One side section of the inverted-T windows is shown open (by opening fasteners  1210  and  1212   a ) allowing the operator to view up the hill. 
       FIG. 14A Through FIG. 14H 
       [0328]      FIG. 14A  through  FIG. 14G  show novel set up and take down methods of the angular frame  950 . This sequence is shown using the angular frame as a collapsed bundle having the angular cover shafts  952  unfolded to full length. 
         [0329]      FIG. 14A  shows the operator  400  carrying the collapsed blind using his hands. Next the operator  400  places the collapsed blind on the ground. At this point the angular frame  950  is folded to about half the length of the angular cover shafts  952  to collapse into a narrow bundle. 
         [0330]      FIG. 14B  and  FIG. 14C  show the operator opening the angular frame by grasping the end piece with hook  4400  or the connecting lower shaft  953  and rotating the shaft upward, outward and downward on the angular hinge  956  (not shown) parallel with the angular cover shaft  942  and the ground. 
         [0331]      FIG. 14D  shows the operator beginning to lean back while holding the angular cover shafts  952  through the angular cover  942  as the angular frame  950  begins to open. It is during this transition from  FIG. 14C  to  FIG. 14D  that the first advantages of the flat walls in the various hinges are used. This transition puts a large stress on the frame to force it to open. The friction within the hinges and against the ground starts to hold the blind open. In practice, opening the blind into a light wind makes this step and process easier. 
         [0332]      FIG. 14E  shows the operator  400  at the end of the seated row stroke. While the operator  400  continues to lean back, the other hand makes a smooth transition to the pull handle  1535 . By leaning back, the blind continues to open and the operator  400  lifts the apex of the blind off the ground using the foot attaching means  1790 . The pull cord  1536  has been moved the full range of motion necessary to engage the docking mechanism. The operator has released the angular frame  950  and has grasped the pull handle  1535  during the stroke with both hands while continuing to lift the apex of the blind with the foot attaching means  1790 . Using this method the operator has been able to apply a cover skin tightening force using a plurality of large muscle groups of the full body from the hands to the feet, whereby the blind is rapidly set up (in only a few seconds). In turn, the angular cover  942  stretches over the angular frame with sufficient force that angular cover  942  is held taut without substantial movement or noise detectable by wildlife. The force applied by the human body over the range of movement is greater than a force possible with just the arms and shoulders of the conventional methods. 
         [0333]      FIG. 14F  shows the operator  400  easily lifting the standalone blind and lifting it overhead. 
         [0334]      FIG. 14G  shows the operator  400  inside the blind. The operator can go from running through the outdoors to being fully concealed (the sequence from  FIG. 14A  to  FIG. 14G ) in about seven seconds. 
         [0335]      FIG. 14H  shows the novel take down method. “You just kick it.”™ 
         [0336]    The operator  400  pulls most of the pull cord  1536  inside the blind, and tips the blind horizontally to slightly below knee level. The operator  400 , for example, stands on a dominate right foot, holds the angular cover  942  with the left hand, and kicks the separation shaft tip  944  with the left foot. When the stored energy is released, the blind will automatically jump forward under the left arm of the operator  400  where the now collapsed blind also can be grasped in front of the body with the right hand. The operator  400  can immediately move the blind to a new location. The blind can be collapsed in a couple of seconds. 
         [0337]    For long-term transportation, the angular frame can be folded to about half the length of the angular cover shafts  952  to collapse into a narrow bundle. 
       FIG. 15A Through FIG. 15C 
       [0338]      FIG. 15A through 15C  show aspects and operation of an alternate power jerk method of using the full human body to set up an angular frame  950 . 
         [0339]      FIG. 15A  shows the operator  400  positioned under the angular frame  950  in the power jerk position. The blind is initially spread while in a vertical position.  FIG. 15A  also illustrates a novel method of deploying the angular frame  950  using the full body strength of the operator  400 . A pull cord  1536  preferably is attached at one end to a pull handle  1535 . In this method the pull cord  1536  is pulled through the lower plate  946  and attached to a foot attaching means  1790 . The operator  400  presses up on the hand grips  1776  (configured as shown in one of the embodiments of  FIG. 15B  or  FIG. 15C ) while using the large muscles of the back and legs through a foot to apply a skin tightening force. To achieve the full range of motion, the operator  400  likely will lift the blind from the ground as some point during the power jerk. The hand grips  1776  provide a stable means of performing the power jerk and automatically positions the operator&#39;s hands away from the parts (e.g. stretcher shafts  954  ( a - d ), half arch cover shaft  1512  ( a - d ), upper plate  945 , or lower plate  946 ) that come together during the docking process. The hand guards  1778  (see  FIG. 15B  for details) help the operator to hold the collapsed frame when initially opening the angular frame  950  and to protect the hands and fingers. 
         [0340]    In yet another embodiment (not shown), the pull cord  1536  does not pass thru the separation shaft  943 , but is attached directly to the upper plate  945 . In this embodiment there is not need for a pull handle  1535 . 
         [0341]      FIG. 15B  shows a perspective view of the hand grips  1776  and hand guards  1778  as an integral part of the lower plate  946 . The stretcher shafts  954  ( a - d ) are connected to the lower plate  946  via the anchor plates  948  ( a - d ) respectively. The separation shaft  943  is attached perpendicular to the lower plate and provides a conduit for the pull cord  1536 . The pull cord extension  1533  is attached to the pull cord  1536  by a closable clip  1937 , in this embodiment. 
         [0342]      FIG. 15C  shows the hand grips  1776  and hand guards  1778  mounted on two opposite arch stretcher shafts  954 .  FIG. 15C  also shows the foot attaching means  1790  attached to the pull cord extension  1533 . The pull cord extension  1533  is attached to the pull cord  1536  by a closable clip  1937 , in this embodiment. The separation shaft  943  is attached perpendicular to the lower plate and provides a conduit for the pull cord  1536 . The foot attaching means  1790  could be implemented as a loop in the pull cord extension  1533  optionally attached or threaded through a stirrup  1799 . The stirrup  1799  could be made of rigid metal or plastic, or preferably flexible plastic tubing. 
       Power Jerk Method 
       [0343]    In the power jerk method of setting up the blind, the operator does not have to sit on the ground (or chair) and still is able to use the large muscle groups of the human body from hands to feet. While the range is typically less than the power row position, most outdoorsmen can apply more force in the power jerk position, resulting in the same amount of energy for necessary improved skin tightening, which is substantially greater than can be applied with just the arms and shoulders as in conventional methods. 
       FIG. 16A Through FIG. 16D 
       [0344]      FIG. 16A  is a perspective view of an improved docking mechanism. The docking assembly  1742  comprising stretcher shafts  954  ( a - d ) connected to plate anchors  948  ( a - d ) by threaded axles  1763  ( a - d ) respectively on a novel docking plate  1746 . The docking shaft  1743  is connected to the docking plate  1746 . The intersection dock  1722  comprises angular cover shafts  952  ( a - d ) or half arch cover shafts  1512  ( a - d ) connected to plate anchors  948  ( a - d ) respectively on a novel dock plate  1724 . The top portion of the dock plate  1724  in the intersection dock  1722  also serves as the foot attaching means  1790 . The alternate dock  1721  is connected to the bottom of the dock plate  1724 . The inside of the alternate dock  1721  comprises the dock curved surface  1725 . The pull cord  1536  runs completely through the docking plate  1746 , the docking shaft  1743 , the alternate dock  1721  and the dock conduit  1727 . 
         [0345]    By pushing the docking assembly  1742  into the intersection dock  1722 , the docking shaft  1743  is guided through the bottom of the alternate dock  1721  and docking conduit  1727  and inserted up to the point where the bottom of the alternate dock  1721  meets the top of the docking plate  1746  and the bottom plane of the safety groove is protruding above the top of the docking conduit  1727 . At this point a locking mechanism can be applied to secure the docking shaft  1743  in place. 
         [0346]      FIG. 16B  is a perspective view of an improved dockless mechanism enabled by the mechanical strength resulting from the novel shaft plate  958  and novel plate anchor  948 .  FIG. 16B  eliminates the use of docking shaft  1743 , safety groove  1745 , docking tip  1744 , alternate dock  1721 , and dock conduit  1727  and replaces it with separation shaft  943 , separation shaft stop  947 , separation shaft tip  944  and plate conduit  927 . 
         [0347]    The embodiment of the dockless mechanism in  FIG. 16B  is equally as effective as that of  FIG. 16A , but requires less material and the use of an additional safety mechanism. 
         [0348]      FIG. 16C  is a cross sectional view of  FIG. 16A . 
         [0349]      FIG. 16D  is a cross sectional view of  FIG. 16B . 
       FIG. 17 
       [0350]      FIG. 17  shows various features of a currently preferred embodiment of the blind of the present invention. The blind comprises the fast setup frame  1534  ( FIG. 3A ) or angular frame  950 , a three tiered, quiet cover embodiment of the cover  1540  ( FIG. 5C ), a rain fly  1550 , and a foot attaching means  1790  (not visible,  FIG. 14D ,  FIG. 14E , and  FIG. 15A ). 
         [0351]    The cover  1540  comprises:
       two inverted-T window, formed by fasteners  1210  and  1212 ,   windows  1612  sandwiched between guylines  1912  (either  FIG. 8A  or  FIG. 8B ), with inserting clips  1706  ( a - d ) in each bottom corner (not shown),   a door fastener  1636 , forming a skirt door  2050 ,   skirt straps  686  in each corner,   lower wall tightening, vertical hems  1870 ,   a skirt  2010         
 
         [0358]    The fast setup frame  1534  further comprises:
       pull cord  1536  and pull handle  1535 ,   end pieces with hook  4400     corner loop  1622         
 
         [0362]    The blind is shown with the inverted-T window half open with the open section in a window  1672 . The end piece with hook  4400  could alternatively be held by a pocket as shown in the parent applications rather than a corner loop  1622 . 
       FIG. 18A Through FIG. 18F 
       [0363]      FIG. 18A  illustrates an embodiment of the present invention with the use of the simple cover  1880 . The simple cover  1880  further comprises a set of doors  1634  and a door fastener  1636 . Set up can be accomplished using any of the methods shown in reference to  FIG. 6B ,  FIG. 9D ,  FIG. 12B . 
         [0364]      FIG. 18B  illustrates an embodiment of the present invention with the use of the cover with porch  1882 . The cover with porch  1882  comprises a set of doors  1634  and a door fastener  1636 . The cover with porch  1882  further comprises a removable rain cover having a porch capable of being extended beyond the area enclosed by the netting. This embodiment has many advantages including providing a shelter under which items such as shoes, packs, etc. may be protected when stored beyond the area enclosed by the netting  1888  ( FIG. 18C ). The porch portion could be staked (not shown). 
         [0365]      FIG. 18C  illustrates aspects of an embodiment of the present invention with the use of either the simple cover  1880  or the cover with porch  1882  and tent floor  1884 . This cover comprises a fully enclosing netting  1888  with a water resistant tent floor  1884 . The simple cover  1880  or the cover with porch  1882  further comprises a set of doors  1634  and a door fastener  1636 . Likewise, the netting  1888  comprised of a set of netting doors  1886 . 
         [0366]      FIG. 18D  illustrates an alternate embodiment of  FIG. 18C  that includes only the netting  1888  and the tent floor  1884 . In this embodiment the simple cover  1880  or the cover with porch  1882  has been removed. 
         [0367]      FIG. 18E  and  FIG. 18F  illustrate a novel set up and take down of an embodiment of a fast setup frame  1534  or an angular frame  950 .  FIG. 18E  illustrates the concept with either the simple cover  1880  or the cover with porch  1882 .  FIG. 18F  illustrates the same concept with a fully enclosing netting  1888  with a water resistant tent floor  1884 . Note that the floor can be folded inside the frame and the shafts can be folded or collapsed to make the structure more compact for portability. 
       Other Uses 
       [0368]    While the descriptions of the various embodiments have been made in reference to an undeveloped outdoor area, the modular system of the present invention could also be used in urban areas. For example, in colder winter climates, the system could be used to form a green house over a garden using clear plastic sheeting and then reassembled in the summer as a shelter for vehicles or bicycles using an opaque tarp. In another example, the supports, shafts, connectors, and curtains could be used to form a backyard maze. In yet another example, the system could be used for constructing outdoor structures for weddings, flea markets, festivals, or even security checkpoints. 
       ADVANTAGES 
     Modular 
       [0369]    The system of the present invention is modular. A user can begin using smaller modules with minimal investment and add more pieces or more complex modules later. A group of users can each own separate modules, which are used independently, and then construct more complex configurations when the group comes together in the outdoors. 
       Separately Packable 
       [0370]    Because the various components and modules can be separated, different users in a group can carry a relatively lighter load, for example, in their backpacks. Some modules such as the single operator angular blind is easily carried using a backpack or waist pack. 
       Star Window and Inverted-T Window 
       [0371]    The novel star window configurations provide blind windows with four or more sections such that any section or groups of sections can be independently opened while maintaining taut cover panels. The star windows, and inverted-T windows, also allow the top of the blind to be fully opened. A novel window section attachment allows non-adjacent window sections to be attached. 
       Skin Tightening 
       [0372]    The novel means of tightening the skin of the present invention provides methods and means for tightening the skin on the sides of a blind cover to reduce movement and flutter in the wind. The means of the present invention include cover shafts that are stretched to cause a constant outward pressure on the sides of the cover. This is done with lower cost, lighter weight, and easier to use structures. 
       Simple 
       [0373]    The present invention is simple to make and use. Each component is easily made. The present invention requires little time to attach and to set up. 
         [0374]    The fast setup frame, angular frame, and other basic modules can be quickly set up to provide initial concealment and shelter. Other components can be added and configured as needed. 
       Easy to Use 
       [0375]    The present invention is easy to use. 
       Lightweight 
       [0376]    The present invention comprises a few simple parts that can easily be constructed of lightweight materials. Being lightweight is important for those who have to carry gear into the outdoors. 
       Compact 
       [0377]    The embodiments of the present invention are compact. Large modules such as covers with cover shafts can be broken down and rolled together in relatively small bundles. This is advantageous for both storage and carrying. 
       Portable 
       [0378]    The present invention is lightweight and compact allowing it to be carried long distances into the outdoors and to be used in a variety of locations. 
       Quiet 
       [0379]    The skin tightening features reduce noise from wind movement or flutter. The attaching pivot support with a curtain has no moving parts that would make a noise or rattle together. In some cases the screws turning against the attaching structure could make a quiet sound. However the design is such that once screwed in all the way the screw can be backed out a turn or two to reduce the volume of noise made to a negligible level. 
         [0380]    The novel use of guylines to secure and move windows and the use of magnetic window fasteners eliminate the need for zippers or hook and loop fasteners providing for quiet window or opening operation during wildlife observation. 
       Universal 
       [0381]    The modular system of the present invention uses the same brackets and shafts to construct a variety of both tree blinds and ground blinds. The same parts and equipment can be used to construct configurations for different purposes and for different environments. This maximizes the user&#39;s investment in the materials and minimizes the number of items to be packed. The use of standard shaft segments and half-length extension shafts provide for a large number of configurations using the same basic components. 
       Lower Cost, Longer Reliability 
       [0382]    The present invention provides a number of novel features that reduce the complexity and cost of manufacture and that increase the reliability of the parts. 
       Conclusion, Ramification, and Scope 
       [0383]    Accordingly, the reader will see that the present invention provides an easy to use, simple, lightweight, compact, portable, quiet, multi-use modular system for concealment and shelter. 
         [0384]    While the above descriptions contain several specifics these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as examples of some of the preferred embodiments thereof. Many other variations are possible. The variations could be used without departing from the scope and spirit of the novel features of the present invention. 
         [0385]    Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined not by the illustrated embodiments, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.