Abstract:
The portable structure will generally have a pod from which a suite frame and suite may be deployed. The suite will allow personnel to administer to many critical demands and activities. The portable structure may be deployed upon any terrain, whether level or uneven, rigid or soft, and both the pod and the suite may be leveled independently. Additionally, the portable structure may incorporate at least one cocoon section wherein the cocoon section comprises at least one interior layer contacting a mesh covering placed over the suite frame, at least one thermal layer affixed to the interior layer, wherein the thermal layer includes heat adding and heat removal members capable of removing or adding heat to the mesh covering or a substance adjacent the at least one thermal layer and at least one exterior layer affixed to the thermal layer.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims priority from provisional U.S. Pat. App. No. 61/305,746 filed on Feb. 18, 2010, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to methods and apparatuses for providing a portable structure to any type of terrain. More specifically, the invention provides a rapid response emergency multi-purpose unit for providing shelter and services to difficult terrain. 
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
     No federal funds were used to develop or create the invention disclosed and described in the patent application. 
     REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING COMPACT DISK APPENDIX 
     Not Applicable 
     AUTHORIZATION PURSUANT TO 37 C.F.R. §1.171 (d) 
     A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright and trademark protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrights whatsoever. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Many times it is difficult or impossible to provide the appropriate medical care or other services to remote areas and/or areas having difficult terrain, such as mountains, jungles, and the like. The uneven terrain causes difficulty in erecting any sort of covered structure. The difficult terrain also prevents land vehicles from reaching those areas. Accordingly, an apparatus that is transportable and provides some shelter to remote areas during times of emergency is needed. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The portable structure will be well suited for many applications that may include but not limited to a triage hospital, decontamination facility, radiation free sanctuary, temporary housing or billeting, relief station, command center during a disaster, morgue, repair facility, communications center, forward observation facility, rescue and recovery facility, and staging area. 
     The portable structure may be insulated, and may be transported to any disaster area and in a matter of minutes. It may provide a full array of services for any natural disaster, terrorist attack, or other necessities. The portable structure may be fully operational within minutes, providing an insulated, clean, lighted, heated or cooled environment, which may be fully equipped, allowing the staff to perform on-site activities immediately. Depending on the size specified, this portable structure may be fully functional with ninety minutes. 
     It is an object of the portable structure to provide a rapid response emergency multi-purpose unit that may be towed to a site or deployed from the air. 
     It is another object of the portable structure to provide a portable structure that may be leveled on any type of uneven terrain. 
     All elements that will provide the physical equipments and services for an entire portable structure will be contained in a mobile transport container pod that may be transported by ground, sea or air. 
     The pod will be constructed with appropriate material and design such that the pod, once deployed and the equipment correctly positioned, will be become the nucleus of the entire portable structure. 
     The pod will be constructed in a manner that the components for the portable structure will be off-loaded and erected in a logical and predetermined manner and method. 
     The virgin pod is weather and water proof, and hermetically sealed to minimize contamination, damage, or pilferage to the critical elements contained in the pod during storage and deployment. 
     The pod will vary in size, shape, dimensions, and weight based on the special-ordered equipment and services requested by the client(s). The pod may have portable or retractable axle/wheel/tire assemblies allowing the pod, when the axle wheel/tire assemblies are deployed, to be transported on land. 
     The pod may be loaded and secured on a ship in a manner similar to the manner in which cargo containers are loaded on to container ships. 
     The pod may be loaded into cargo aircraft. 
     The pod may be airlifted by helicopter or other suitable means. 
     The pod, when deployed to a disaster location, may be placed on the ground whether the ground is level or uneven, hilly or flat, or is covered with snow or other liabilities. 
     Other objects of the portable structure will become apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the present disclosure. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
       In order that the advantages of the invention will be readily understood, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered limited of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings. 
         FIG. 1  provides a perspective view of the pod with the slide outs extended and the pod leveling screws deployed. 
         FIG. 2A  provides a cutaway view of one embodiment of a leveling screw, leveling screw block, and leveling screw pad engaged with one another. 
         FIG. 2B  provides a perspective view of the embodiment of the leveling screw pad shown in  FIG. 2A . 
         FIG. 2C  provides a perspective view of one embodiment of a pod with two leveling screws fully retracted. 
         FIG. 2D  provides a perspective view of one embodiment of a pod with two leveling screws partially extended. 
         FIG. 3  provides a perspective view of the pod without the slide outs extended, wherein the pod base is expanded for use on soft terrain. 
         FIG. 4  provides a perspective view of one embodiment of the interior portion of one slide out. 
         FIG. 5  provides a top view of one embodiment of the pod before the slide outs have been extended showing the relative dimensions of some elements thereof. 
         FIG. 6  provides an top view of one embodiment of the pod after the slide outs have been extended showing the relative dimensions of some elements thereof. 
         FIG. 7  provides a cutaway side view of one embodiment of the pod showing the relative dimensions and arrangement of some elements thereof. 
         FIG. 8A  provides a top view of a first arrangement of the generator and HVAC components within the pod. 
         FIG. 8B  provides a top view of a second arrangement of the generator and HVAC components within the pod. 
         FIG. 9A  provides a top view of one arrangement of the generator and HVAC components within the pod. 
         FIG. 9B  provides a cutaway side view of the arrangement of the generator and HVAC components shown in  FIG. 9A . 
         FIG. 9C  provides an external side view of the pod have exterior access panels. 
         FIG. 10  provides a top view of the pod with the catwalk extended. 
         FIG. 11  provides an end view of the pod with the catwalk extended. 
         FIG. 12  provides a top view of the pod with the catwalk extended and shows two ground rails in relation thereto. 
         FIG. 13  is an end view of one embodiment of a vertical rail roller of a vertical rail section engaged with a ground rail. 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a ground rail having an extended base for use with soft material. 
         FIG. 15A  provides a perspective view of one embodiment of a ground rail engaged with a ground rail support. 
         FIG. 15B  provides an end view of one embodiment of a ground rail engaged with a ground rail support. 
         FIG. 16  provides a perspective view of one embodiment of a sleeve connector and a pin. 
         FIG. 17A  provides a side view of a sleeve connector engaged with two vertical rail sections using two pins. 
         FIG. 17B  provides a perspective view of a sleeve connector and vertical rail section prior to engagement there between. 
         FIG. 18  provides a perspective view of two fully constructed uprights engaged with two ground rails and affixed to one another via a plurality of cross members. 
         FIG. 19  is a detailed view of one embodiment for attaching the cross member to the upright. 
         FIG. 20  is an end view of one embodiment of the suit frame having a plurality of horizontal and vertical cables. 
         FIG. 21  is a side view of one embodiment of an outside floor support. 
         FIG. 22  is a side view of one embodiment of an inside floor support. 
         FIG. 23  is an end view of one embodiment of an outside floor support showing the floor support sleeve and clamp. 
         FIG. 24  is a perspective view of one embodiment of an outside floor support showing the floor support sleeve and clamp as removed from one another. 
         FIG. 25  is a perspective view of one embodiment of an outside floor support with the floor support sleeve and claim engaged with one another. 
         FIG. 26  is a top view of one embodiment of a floor grid showing outside and inside floor supports. 
         FIG. 27  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a suite frame having a center floor member affixed to the vertical cables  28   b.    
         FIG. 28  is a perspective view of one embodiment of an equalizer that may be used to adjust the position of the floor supports. 
         FIG. 29  is a side view of a plurality of equalizers installed between vertical rail sections adjacent inside and outside floor supports. 
         FIG. 30  is a side view of one embodiment of the suite frame erected on uneven terrain. 
         FIG. 31  is a side view of one embodiment of the suit frame erected and attached to a pod. 
         FIG. 32  is a simplified depiction of one embodiment for the control panel for the portable structure. 
         FIG. 33  is a perspective view of one embodiment of the vertical cable and treatment area supports. 
         FIG. 34A  is an end view of one embodiment of the suite showing one arrangement for treatment areas along the center vertical cables. 
         FIG. 34B  is a top view of one embodiment of the suite showing one arrangement for treatment areas along the center vertical cables. 
         FIG. 34C  is a top view of one embodiment of the floor plan of the suite showing one arrangement for treatment areas within the suite. 
         FIG. 35  is a side view of one embodiment of HVAC ductwork that may be used within the suite. 
         FIG. 36  is a side view of one embodiment of the arrangement of HVAC ductwork within the portable unit. 
         FIG. 37  is a top view of one embodiment of the arrangement of HVAC ductwork within the portable unit. 
         FIG. 38  is a top view of one embodiment of the arrangement of the lighting fixtures within the suite. 
         FIG. 39  is a side view of one embodiment of the arrangement of the various control centers, control panel, and generators for the portable unit. 
         FIG. 40A  is a perspective view of the mesh covering that may be placed over the suite frame in certain embodiments. 
         FIG. 40B  is a top view of the mesh covering that may be placed over the suite frame in certain embodiments. 
         FIG. 41  is a perspective view of one embodiment of one section of the cocoon material that may be placed over the mesh covering. 
         FIG. 42  is a top view of an embodiment of the suite having two access doors and two suite canopies. 
         FIG. 43  is an end view of one embodiment of a suite access door and suite canopy. 
         FIG. 44  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a cocoon canopy section. 
         FIG. 45  is an end view of one embodiment of a suite access door and suite canopy. 
       
         
           
                 
               
                 
                 
                 
               
             
                 
                     
                 
                 
                   DETAILED DESCRIPTION - LISTING OF ELEMENTS 
                 
               
            
             
                 
                     
                   ELEMENT DESCRIPTION 
                   ELEMENT # 
                 
                 
                     
                 
                 
                     
                   Generator 
                    2 
                 
                 
                     
                   HVAC 
                    4 
                 
                 
                     
                   Control panel 
                    6 
                 
                 
                     
                   Breaker panel 
                    7 
                 
                 
                     
                   Exterior access panel 
                    8 
                 
                 
                     
                   Water control center 
                    9 
                 
                 
                     
                   Portable structure 
                   10 
                 
                 
                     
                   Pod 
                   12 
                 
                 
                     
                   Slide out 
                   13 
                 
                 
                     
                   Leveling screw 
                   14 
                 
                 
                     
                   Leveling screw block 
                   14a 
                 
                 
                     
                   Leveling screw pad 
                   14b 
                 
                 
                     
                   Leveling screw retainer  
                   15 
                 
                 
                     
                   Side port 
                   15a 
                 
                 
                     
                   Bottom port 
                   15b 
                 
                 
                     
                   Pod base 
                   16 
                 
                 
                     
                   Pod access door 
                   17 
                 
                 
                     
                   Shelving 
                   18 
                 
                 
                     
                   Catwalk 
                   19 
                 
                 
                     
                   Ladder 
                   19a 
                 
                 
                     
                   Suite frame 
                   20 
                 
                 
                     
                   Ground rail 
                   21 
                 
                 
                     
                   Ground rail support 
                   21a 
                 
                 
                     
                   Support pad 
                   21b 
                 
                 
                     
                   Vertical rail section 
                   22 
                 
                 
                     
                   Vertical rail roller 
                   22a 
                 
                 
                     
                   Arch support 
                   23 
                 
                 
                     
                   Upright 
                   24 
                 
                 
                     
                   Fixture 
                   24a 
                 
                 
                     
                   Fixture aperture 
                   24b 
                 
                 
                     
                   Cross member 
                   25 
                 
                 
                     
                   Tab 
                   25a 
                 
                 
                     
                   Sleeve connector 
                   26 
                 
                 
                     
                   Pin 
                   26a 
                 
                 
                     
                   Aperture 
                   26b 
                 
                 
                     
                   Outside floor support 
                   27a 
                 
                 
                     
                   Inside floor support 
                   27b 
                 
                 
                     
                   Center floor member 
                   27c 
                 
                 
                     
                   Horizontal cable 
                   28a 
                 
                 
                     
                   Vertical cable 
                   28b 
                 
                 
                     
                   Floor support sleeve 
                   29a 
                 
                 
                     
                   Floor support clamp 
                   29b 
                 
                 
                     
                   Floor support platform 
                   29c 
                 
                 
                     
                   Floor support arm 
                   29d 
                 
                 
                     
                   Equalizer 
                   29e 
                 
                 
                     
                   Suite 
                   30 
                 
                 
                     
                   Treatment Area Support 
                   31 
                 
                 
                     
                   Treatment Area 
                   32 
                 
                 
                     
                   Light Source 
                   33 
                 
                 
                     
                   Electrical Conduit 
                   34 
                 
                 
                     
                   Electrical Outlet 
                   35 
                 
                 
                     
                   HVAC Ductwork 
                   36 
                 
                 
                     
                   Mesh Covering 
                   38 
                 
                 
                     
                   Cocoon Section 
                   40 
                 
                 
                     
                   Suite Access Door 
                   42 
                 
                 
                     
                   Suite Canopy 
                   44 
                 
                 
                     
                   Cocoon Canopy Section 
                   46 
                 
                 
                     
                   Floor Sheet 
                   48 
                 
                 
                     
                 
               
            
           
         
       
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     1. Description of Illustrative Embodiment 
     Before the various embodiments of the present invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangements of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that phraseology and terminology used herein with reference to device or element orientation (such as, for example, terms like “front”, “back”, “up”, “down”, “top”, “bottom”, and the like) are only used to simplify description of the present invention, and do not alone indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a particular orientation. In addition, terms such as “first”, “second”, and “third” are used herein and in the appended claims for purposes of description and are not intended to indicate or imply relative importance or significance. 
     Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views,  FIG. 1  illustrates a first embodiment of a pod  12  having two slide outs  13 , which are shown in the extended position in  FIG. 1 . The dimensions of the pod  12  and slide outs  13  will vary depending on the specific embodiment of the portable structure  10 , and therefore do not limit the scope of the portable structure  10  as disclosed and claimed herein. In one embodiment of the portable structure  10  shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , the slide outs  13  are approximately three feet wide and the pod  12  is eight feet wide. Accordingly, when the slide outs  13  are extended the overall width of the pod  12  is 14 feet. It is contemplated that the entire length of the pod  12  may be from twelve to forty five feet. However, the portable structure  10  is in no way limited by any dimensions of the pod  12 , and the preceding are for illustrative purposes only. 
     Each corner of the pod  12  may be equipped with a pod leveling screw  14  having a leveling screw pad  14   b  attached to one end thereof as shown in  FIGS. 2A ,  2 C, and  2 D. A laser level (not shown) and computer (not shown) in communication with a rotational power source (not shown) may be used to continually adjust the leveling screws  14  so that the pod  12  remains level through any settling that may occur upon deployment. The size of the leveling screw pads  14   b  will vary depending on the rigidity of the surface on which the pod  12  is placed. A portion of the leveling screw  14  may be engaged with the leveling screw block  14   a , and the leveling screw block  14   a  may be securely engaged with the pod  12 . A leveling screw retainer  15  may be placed at each bottom corner of the pod  12  and secured thereto. The leveling screw retainer  15  may be formed with a side port  15   a  for inspecting the leveling screw  14  and/or leveling screw pad  14   b . The leveling screw retainer  15  may also formed with a bottom port  15   b  through which the leveling screw pad  14   b  may pass when deployed. 
     The pod leveling screws allow users to vary the distance between the pod  12  and the leveling screw pad  14   b , which rests upon the surface on which the pod  12  is deployed. In this manner, the user may level the pod  12  and extremely uneven terrain. Pod leveling screws  14  may also be positioned out the outer corners of the slide outs  13  for additional structural support. Other arrangements of leveling screws  14 , leveling screw pads  14   b , and/or leveling screw retainers  15  exists, and any structure and/or method that allows a user to adequately level the pod  12  may be used without limitation. 
     All the components of the portable structure  10  may be configured to fit within the pod  12 . Accordingly, the pod  12  may be delivered to the site at which it is needed, and the portable structure  10  may them be deployed from the materials contained within the pod  12 , which is described in detail below. In assembling the portable structure  10 , the pod  12  is first placed in the area in which services are needed and then the pod  12  is leveled. It is contemplated the pod  12  will most typically be of the dimensions and weight such that a helicopter may deliver the pod  12  to the area in which it is needed. Alternatively, the pod  12  may be configured as a trailer to a land vehicle. 
     An embodiment of a pod  12  having an expanded pod base  16  is shown in the embodiment in  FIG. 3 . This embodiment would be especially useful on surfaces that are extremely soft or if the rigidity of the surface is unknown. Alternatively, the size of the leveling screw pads  14   b  could be increased to reduce the pressure they exert on the surface on which the pod  12  is deployed. 
     The precise layout, equipment, and equipment placement within the portable structure  10  will vary from one embodiment to the next. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 4 , shelving  18  may be positioned on the interior surface of one of the slide outs  13 . As shown in  FIG. 7 , a portion at one end of the pod  12  may be designated for positioning some of the working elements of the portable structure  10 , such as a generator  2 , control panel  6 , and other mechanical and/or electrical systems or controls. For convenience, a pod access door  17  may be positioned adjacent the area designated for working elements, as shown in  FIGS. 5-7 . Top views of two alternative arrangements of a generator  2  and HVAC  4  layout is shown in  FIGS. 8A and 8B . As is apparent to those skilled in the art, HVAC ductwork  36  spans the distance from the HVAC  4  to other areas of the portable structure  10  requiring heating and/or cooling. 
     In certain embodiments, it may be beneficial for the pod  12  to be equipped with exterior access panels  8  for some of the mechanical and/or utility machinery. As shown in  FIGS. 9A-9C , these panels may be placed adjacent the HVAC  4 , control panel  6 , and or the generators  2 . The precise dimensions of the pod  12  and slide outs  13  vary, and the configuration of the HVAC  4 , generators  2 , control panel  6 , and/or exterior access panels  8  may vary without departing from the spirit and scope of the portable structure  10 . 
     After the pod  12  is positioned and leveled, the catwalk  19  may be extended. Although not shown in the figures herein, it is contemplated that many applications of the portable structure  10  will include a plurality of cables attached to various portions of the catwalk  19  to increase the robustness and stability thereof. The catwalk  19  runs perpendicular to the longest side of the pod  12  in the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11  and is positioned on the end of the pod  12  opposite the generator  2 , HVAC  4 , and/or other mechanical and electrical controls. A ladder  19   a  may also be positioned adjacent the catwalk  19  for access to the upper exterior of the portable structure  10  as shown in  FIG. 31 . Typically, the length of the catwalk  19  is equal to the width of the suite frame  20 , which is described in detail below. 
     To begin construction of the suit frame  20 , ground rails  21  may extend from the pod  12  spaced from one another by an amount equal to the length of the catwalk  19 , as shown in  FIG. 12 . The distal ends of the ground rails  21  may be affixed to one another by a cross brace (not shown) to add strength to the suite frame  20 . The ground rails  21  will be positioned below the cat walk  19  and may form the foundation for additional elements of the suite  30 . If the terrain is uneven, ground rail supports  21   a  may be used to ensure each ground rail  21  will not be dislodged from the desired position. The ground rail supports  21   a  (as shown in  FIGS. 15A and 15B ) may be adjustable for height and may have ground pads  21   b  of varying size depending on the rigidity of the surface on which the ground rail supports  21   a  are placed. The ground rails  21  and/or ground rail supports  21   a  (if so equipped) support the suite  30 , and therefore must be constructed of a suitably robust material, such as steel, iron, metal alloys, polymer materials, or any other suitable material known to those skilled in the art. 
     Two embodiments of ground rails  21  are shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14 . The embodiment in  FIG. 13  is shown engaged with a vertical rail roller  22   a , which is described in detail below. The embodiment of a ground rail  21  shown in  FIG. 14  includes an enlarged base section to reduce the pressure the ground rail  21  places on the area in which it is deployed. This embodiment of a ground rail may be especially useful when the ground rails  21  are placed adjacent a soft surface, such as snow or mud. 
     After the ground rails  21  are placed, a laser level (not shown) and computer (not shown) may be used to determine the elevation at various points along the ground rails  21  that would yield a surface that is level and substantially the same elevation as the floor of the pod  12 . Alternatively, the ground rail supports  21   a  may be adjusted such that each ground rail  21  is level and at a constant elevation with respect to a reference point on the pod  12 . It is contemplated that such elevation will be slightly less than that of the floor of the pod  12 . Once these values are determined, the first upright  24 , which will be the upright  24  that is furthest from the pod  12 , is constructed. The upright  24  generally forms a U-shape, as shown in  FIG. 18 . Together with the ground rails  21 , the uprights  24  may comprise the suite frame  20 . Two uprights  24  attached to one another through a plurality of cross members  25  are shown in  FIG. 18 . A more detailed view of how each cross member  25  may be affixed to a vertical rail section  22  is shown in  FIG. 19 . However, other connection structures and/or methods may be used other than those shown without departing from the spirit and scope of the portable structure  10 . 
     Each upright  24  may be comprised of at least two vertical rail sections  22  having a vertical rail roller  22   a  at the lower end thereof. As shown in  FIG. 13 , the vertical rail roller  22   a  may engage the ground rail  21  in such a manner that once the upright  24  is constructed, it may be motivated along the ground rail  21  through the interface between the ground rail  21  and the vertical rail roller  22   a . A number of vertical rail sections  22  make up each side of an upright  24 , and each side may be connected to one another through an arch support  23 , which forms the curved portion of the upright  24 . The arch supports  23  may be flexible, rigid, or semi-rigid, depending on the specific application of the portable structure  10 . In the event that the ground rails  21  are not first leveled, a computer (not shown) and laser level (not shown) may be used to measure and compute the quantity and length of vertical rail sections  22  to use for each upright  24  to ensure a level floor surface. 
     Adjacent vertical rail sections  22  of one upright  24  may be joined to one another through the sleeve connector  26  and a plurality of pins  26   a  in the first embodiment, which is best shown in  FIGS. 16-17B . Two adjacent vertical rail sections  22  are shown engaged with one sleeve connector  26  in  FIG. 17A , and one vertical rail section  22  positioned adjacent a sleeve connector  26  prior to insertion of a pin  26   a  is shown in  FIG. 17B . A sleeve connector  26  may be placed over the adjacent ends of two vertical rail sections  22  on one side of an upright  24 . Corresponding apertures  26   b  in the sleeve connector  26  (best shown in  FIG. 16 ) and vertical rail sections  22  are oriented so that a first pin  26   a  may pass through the sleeve connector  26  and the top vertical rail section  22  and a second pin  26   a  may pass through the sleeve connector  26  and the bottom vertical rail section  22 . 
     Because of the design of the vertical rail rollers  22   a  and the ground rails  21 , during the construction of the suite frame  20  as each upright  24  is assembled according to the proper dimensions, that upright  24  is moved away from the pod  12  to make room adjacent the pod  12  for assembly of the next upright  24 . Accordingly, the upright  24  furthest from the pod  12  is the first upright  24  assembled, and the upright  24  adjacent the pod  12  is the final upright  24  assembled. 
     The horizontal space between adjacent uprights  24  may vary from one embodiment of the portable structure  10  to the next and therefore in no way limits the scope of the portable structure  10 . Each upright  24  may be separated from the next upright  24  by equal amounts throughout the entire suite frame  20 , or the distances between adjacent uprights  24  may vary. The distance between adjacent uprights  24  is determined by the dimensions of the cross members  25  used, one embodiment of which is shown in detail in  FIG. 19 . This embodiment of cross members  25  uses tabs formed in the cross member  25  and corresponding fixtures  24   a  affixed to the upright  24  having fixture apertures  24   b  formed therein. As previously mentioned,  FIG. 19  represents but one of an infinite number of ways that the cross members  25  may be secured to the uprights  24 , and is therefore in no way limiting to the scope of the portable structure  10 . 
     In one embodiment of the portable structure  10  each upright  24  will be separated from the next by six feet, and the position of each vertical rail roller  22   a  with respect to the ground rail  21  will be fixed by at least one set screw (not shown) for each vertical rail roller  22   a . The first upright  24  that is constructed (i.e., the upright  24  furthest from the pod  12 ) may have mesh covering  38  and/or a cocoon section  40 , described in detail below, over the end thereof to seal that end of the suite  30  from the environment. The last upright  24  that is constructed (i.e., the upright  24  closest to the pod  12 ) may have a special mesh covering  38  and/or cocoon section  40  that correspond with the pod  12  in such a manner as to create a smooth transition between the suite  30  and the pod  12 , as well as ensuring that both the pod  12  and the suite  30  are sealed and protected from the external environment of the portable structure  10 . 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 20 , a plurality of vertical cables  28   b  and horizontal cables  28   a  may be used to strengthen the suite frame  20 . The precise position of each horizontal and vertical cable  28   a ,  28   b  may vary from one embodiment of the portable structure  10  to the next, and is therefore in no way limiting. Horizontal cables  28   a  connect each end of the arch support  23  in each upright  24  in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 20 . Additional horizontal cables  28   a  connect corresponding vertical rail sections  22  for added support. Vertical cables  28   b  may be affixed to the arch support  23  and extend to the floor level or beyond, depending on the specific application of the portable structure  10 . 
     As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, a leveling operating floor in the suite frame  20  may be ensured through one of two methods. In the first method, the ground rails  21  are leveled with respect to the pod  12  by adjusting the height of the ground rail supports  21   a . In the second method, the number of vertical rails sections  22  on any given upright  24  is adjusted to compensate for changes in terrain on which the ground rails  21  rest. 
     As each upright  24  is constructed a mesh covering  38  may be positioned over each upright  24 . One embodiment of what the mesh covering  38  may comprise is shown in  FIGS. 41A and 41B . The mesh covering  38  in  FIG. 41A  is shown in the shape of an upright  24 , while the mesh covering  38  in  FIG. 41B  is shown in a planar orientation. The material from which the mesh covering  38  is constructed is preferably light weight, such as a plastic or polymer, but any material known to those skilled in the art may be used without limitation. 
     Outside floor supports  27   a , one embodiment of which is shown engaged with a vertical rail  22  in  FIG. 21 , may be affixed to vertical rail sections  22  so that the outside floor support  27   a  extends inward from the vertical rail section  22 . The position of the outside floor support  27   a  on the vertical rail section  22  may be determined by the laser level (not shown) and computer (not shown) to ensure that all outside floor supports  27   a  form a level plane. Each outside floor support  27   a  may include a floor support sleeve  29   a , at least one floor support platform  29   c , at least one floor support arm  29   d , and at least one floor support clamp  29   b.    
     The floor support arm  29   d  may be rigidly affixed at one end thereof to the floor support platform  29   c  and rigidly affixed at the opposite end thereof to the floor support clamp  29   b . The floor support clamp  29   b  may be pivotally engaged with the floor support sleeve  29   a , as indicated by the arrangement shown in  FIGS. 23 and 25 . One embodiment of the floor support sleeve  29   a  and floor support clamp  29   b  are shown separated from one another for clarity in  FIG. 24 . Accordingly, the outside floor supports  27   a  may be configured so that as more force is placed downward onto the floor support platform  29   c , the floor support clamp  29   b  is pressed against the vertical rail section  22  with increasing force. That is, as the floor support platform  29   c  experiences downward force, the floor support arm  29   d  experiences a downward force, which in turn causes the floor support clamp  29   b  to pivot inward toward the vertical rail section  22  with increasing force. Other embodiments for the outside floor supports  27   a  exist but are not pictured herein, and any structure known to those skilled in the art that will cause the floor support clamp  29   b  to place greater force on the vertical rail section  22  as more weight is placed on the floor support platform  29   c  may be used without limitation. Furthermore, any structure and/or method that will securely affix an outside floor support  27   a  to a vertical rail section  22  may be used with the portable structure  10  without limitation, including but not limited to set screws (not shown), welds, chemical adhesion, and/or combinations thereof. 
     A side view of one embodiment of an inside floor support  27   b  is shown affixed to a vertical cable  28   b  in  FIG. 22 . The inside floor support  27   b  may be affixed to the vertical cable  28   b  in the same manner as the outside floor support  27   a  is affixed to a vertical rail section  22 . However, in the embodiment pictured in  FIG. 22  each inside floor support  27   b  includes two floor support platforms  29   c  and two floor support arms  29   d  extending from a common floor support sleeve  29   a  in opposite directions. 
     One embodiment of a floor grid comprised of a plurality of outside and inside floor supports  27   a ,  27   b  is shown from the top view in  FIG. 26 . The inside floor supports  27   b  may be affixed to the center floor member  27   c  in addition to a vertical cable  28   b  for additional strength. The center floor member may be formed as a rigid or semi-rigid rod (or tensioned cable) that extends the length of the suit frame  20  and is affixed at either end to the vertical cables  28   b  of the two terminal uprights  24 . The outside floor supports  27   a  may be affixed to vertical rail sections  22 . Adjacent outside or inside floor supports  27   a ,  27   b  within a given row may be connected to one another to provide additional strength to the floor grid through any structure and/or method suitable for the particular application, including but not limited to cables, plates, rods, and/or combinations thereof. After all the outside and inside floor supports  27   a ,  27   b  have been positioned and leveled with respect to one another, the floor sheet  48  may be extended onto the floor support platforms  29   c  of the outside and inside floor supports  27   a ,  27   b . The floor sheet  48  may be configured as a singular unit or in several panels that may be affixed to one another. It is contemplated that the floor sheet  48  will be rigid or semi rigid depending on the spacing and side of the floor support platforms  29   c . The specific area of the floor support platforms  29   c  may vary from one embodiment to the next, and the optimal dimensions vary depending on the orientation of the suite frame  20 . However, it is contemplated that many applications will require floor support platforms  29   c  have an area between two square inches and five hundred square inches. 
     As mentioned, a floor grid layout may include center floor member  27   c  that may be affixed to the vertical cables  28   b  to provide more support for the floor sheet  48 . Additional vertical cables  28   b  may be affixed to the arch support  23 , and additional center floor members  27   c  may be affixed to those vertical cables  28   b  to increase the load-bearing capabilities of the floor. One embodiment of the suite frame  20  is shown in perspective in  FIG. 25 , wherein each arch support  23  includes one vertical cable  28   b  affixed thereto, and one horizontal cable  28   a  affixed thereto. The embodiment in  FIG. 25  also includes a center floor member  27   c . A horizontal cable  28   b  may also be affixed to corresponding vertical rail sections  22  on opposite sides of each upright  24  for additional support. 
     To ensure that neither the outside and inside floor supports  27   a ,  27   b  slip downward as weight is placed upon the floor support platforms  29   c , an equalizer  29   e  (one embodiment of which is shown in  FIG. 28 ) may be positioned below each outside and inside floor support  27   a ,  27   b . The equalizer  29   e  may be used in place of a sleeve connector  26  to connect two vertical rail sections  22  whose junction is located immediately below either an outside or inside floor support  27   a ,  27   b , one such arrangement is shown in  FIG. 29 . The embodiment of an equalizer  29   e  shown in  FIG. 28  is threaded at each end to accept a threaded end of a vertical rail section  22 , and is configured with a movable sleeve on the outer portion. As the central portion of the equalizer  29   e  is rotated, the ends of the two vertical rail sections  22  engaged with the equalizer  29   e  will be moved closer or further from one another depending on the direction of rotation. This allows for precise adjustments in the leveling of the inside and outside floor supports  27   a ,  27   b  during settling of the portable structure  10 . The equalizers  29   e  may be adjusted when the floor sheet  48  is extended or before the floor sheet  48  has been positioned on the floor support platforms  29   c.    
     An illustrative embodiment of a suite frame  20  is shown constructed over an uneven surface in  FIG. 30 , and the suite frame  20  affixed to the pod  12  is shown in  FIG. 31 . As previously described, to account for the uneven terrain, the number of vertical rail sections  22  on each side of each upright  24  may be adjusted, or the ground rail supports  21   a  may be adjusted. As shown in  FIG. 30 , the uprights to the left of the figure have a greater number of vertical rail sections  22  on each side than those towards the right of the figure. The laser level (not shown) and computer (not shown) may be used to determine the number of vertical rail sections  22  needed to ensure the top of the suite frame  20  is substantially level. However, even if the suite frame  20  is not absolutely level, the equalizers  29   e  in cooperation with the outside and inside floor supports  27   a ,  27   b  allow the user to ensure that the floor sheet  48  may be adjusted for an absolutely level work surface. Each upright  24  may be separated from the next upright  24  by equal amounts throughout the entire suite frame  20 , or the distances between adjacent uprights  24  may vary. 
     After the suite frame  20  is fully assembled and leveled, and the floor sheet  48  has been extended on the floor support platforms  29   c , a plurality of cocoon sections  40  may be positioned over the mesh covering  38  to protect the suite  30  from a variety of hazards. The cocoon sections are fully described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/716,039, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Each cocoon section  40 , one embodiment of which is shown in  FIG. 41  may be made from a material or combination of materials that alone or in combination provide resistance to water, environmental pollutants, radiation, industrial pollutants, electromagnetic waves, and abrasion. Furthermore, each cocoon section  40  may be configured to provide heat and/or cooling to the suite  30  as needed, and each cocoon section  40  may be configured to absorb mechanical energy from the impact of various hazards such as ice, hail, failing rocks, and the like through the use of inflatable layers. Each cocoon section  40  is typically flexible and preformed so that each cocoon section  40  fits over a specific portion of the suite frame  20 . 
     One embodiment of the suite  30  is shown from above in  FIG. 42  and in perspective in  FIG. 44 , wherein the suite  30  includes two suite canopies  44  on each side of the suite  30 . Inside each suite canopy  44  a suite access door  42  may be positioned to provide access to the interior of the suite  30  from the surrounding environment. The suite access doors  42  may be sliding-type doors to conserve space and for less complexity, such as those shown in  FIG. 43 . A cocoon canopy section  46  is shown in  FIG. 44 . A suite canopy  44  may be integrated into an adjacent cocoon section  40 . The suite canopy  44  and the suite access door  42  positioned therein is shown from the exterior thereof in  FIG. 45 . Although not shown, the end of the suite  30  furthest from the pod  12  may include a suite access door  42  and a ladder (not shown) to directly access the exterior terrain surface adjacent that end of the suite  30 . 
     The portable structure  10  is shown with the suite  30  constructed and attached to the pod  12  in  FIG. 31 . As shown the portable structure  10  may be deployed on uneven terrain. The dimensions of the suite  30 , suite frame  20 , pod  12 , and various elements thereof may be different than those indicated by the scale in  FIG. 31 , and are therefore in no way limiting to the scope of the portable structure  10 . The surface of the floor sheet  48  may be coplanar and level with respect to the bottom surface of the pod  12  so that ingress/egress from one to the other is simple and efficient. It is contemplated that when the portable structure  10  is deployed on uneven terrain, the end of the pod  12  to which the suite  30  connects should be facing down slope, as is shown in  FIG. 31 . For additional strength exterior cables (not shown) may be anchored to the terrain at one end, draped over the exterior of each cocoon section  40 , and subsequently anchored to the terrain at the opposite end of the exterior cable (not shown). 
     Once the portable structure  10  is fully deployed and assembled, the interior layout may be arranged for an infinite number of situations. The optimal arrangement will depend on the purpose for which the portable structure  10  is deployed. One possible arrangement for the interior of the suite  30  is shown in  FIGS. 34A-34C . In this arrangement the interior of the suite  30  is arranged with a plurality of bunks forming different treatment areas  32 . Each treatment area  32  may be suspended from the floor sheet  48  using a plurality of treatment area supports  31 , which may be affixed to vertical cables  28   b  as shown in  FIG. 33 . Treatment area supports  31  may be configured as any rigid or semi rigid member that will bear the weight of an average human plus a nominal amount for clothing, equipment, and the like. The treatment area supports  31  may be attached to the vertical cables  28   b  using any structure and/or method known to those skilled in the art, including but not limited to clamps, rivets, chemical adhesion, and/or combinations thereof. Additional vertical cables  28   b  may be used to connect adjacent treatment area supports  31  to one another, as may angled cables (not shown) affixed to a vertical cable  28   b  at one end and to either end of the treatment area support  31  at the opposite end. 
     An end view of one section of treatment areas  32  is shown in  FIG. 34A , from which it is clear that the first embodiment allows the treatment areas  32  to be positioned above and below one another. A top view of the center section of treatment areas  32  is shown in  FIG. 34B , which shows that the vertical cables  28   b  along the center of the suite frame  20  may have treatment areas  32  on either side thereof. One row of treatment areas  32  may be positioned along each side of the uprights  24 , as shown schematically in  FIG. 34C . The optimal treatment area  32  structure will vary from one embodiment to the next, but it is contemplated that most applications will require a lightweight, rigid or semi-rigid surface approximately six feet long and at least two feet wide. Alternatively, the treatment areas  32  may be configured as cots, wherein two rigid members connected by a patient support unrolled so that the two rigid members rest upon two treatment area supports  31 . More treatment areas  32  may be added in the same amount of space if the treatment areas  32  are smaller, and therefore the size of the treatment area  32  is in no way limiting to the scope of the portable unit  10 . A number of sections of treatment areas  32  is shown from above in  FIG. 35C . 
     The interior of the suite  30  may be an entirely climate-controlled, protected area that is impervious to the elements and other hazards as listed above. An HVAC  4 , which may be placed in the pod  12 , may be in fluid communication with the suite  30  through HVAC ductwork  36 . As shown in  FIG. 35 , in one embodiment the HVAC ductwork  36  increases in cross-sectional area from one end to the next such that the HVAC ductwork  36  may telescope. A side view of one embodiment of HVAC ductwork  36  connecting the HVAC  4  in the pod  12  to the interior of the suite  30  is shown in  FIG. 36 , with  FIG. 37  providing a top view thereof. As shown, two parallel runs of HVAC ductwork  36  may span the length of the suite  30  with various outlets (not shown) at certain portions to deliver conditioned air (either heated or cooled, which also may be humidified or dehumidified) to the interior of the suite  30 . The exact arrangement of the HVAC ductwork  36  will vary depending on the dimensions of the portable structure  10  and the size of the HVAC  4 , and is therefore in no way limiting in scope. 
     The interior of the suite  30  may also be illuminated by artificial light sources  33 . One arrangement of artificial light sources  33  for the interior of the suite  30  is shown in  FIG. 39 , which also shows one arrangement for electrical outlets  35  and electrical conduit  34  connecting the light sources  33  and/or electrical outlets  35  with the generator  2  in the pod  12 . The light sources  33  and the electrical outlets  35  may hang from cables (not shown) attached to the uprights  24 . It is contemplated that having light sources  33  and/or electrical outlets  35  near each treatment area  32  will be most desirable, and therefore the arrangement of light sources  33  and/or electrical outlets  35  will vary for each embodiment of the portable structure  10  and is in no way limiting to its scope. It is also contemplated that in many embodiments it will be beneficial for the portable structure  10  to include exterior lights, which are not shown herein for purposes of clarity. 
     One arrangement of a control center, which may be used to monitor and control various systems and/or conditions relevant to the portable structure  10 , is shown in  FIG. 39 . As shown, the arrangement in  FIG. 39  may be positioned within the pod  12  at the end of the pod  12  furthest from the suite  30 . Because the portable structure  10  may include electrical outlets  35 , generators  2 , HVAC  4 , potable water, light sources  33 , a conditioned air supply, and multiple treatment areas  32 , the various systems of the portable structure  10  must be monitored and controlled. Accordingly, it is contemplated that at least one control panel  6  and breaker panel  7  will be required. Furthermore, at least one water control center  9  will be required for any portable structure  10  that includes a water system, such as the embodiments pictured herein. Multiple parameters internal and external to the portable structure  10  may be monitored and controlled, which parameters include but are not limited to, multiple potable water supply systems and quantities, multiple electrical system loading, electrical system switches, potable water system temperatures, electrical draw on multiple electrical systems, air temperature and humidity internal and external to the portable structure  10 , fuel supply, generator load and temperature, level of pod  12 , level of floor sheet  48 , temperature of cocoon sections  40 , cocoon heat, light level, air thermostat, external light level, level of suite frame  20 , and waste tank level. One layout of certain parameters that may be monitored is shown in  FIG. 32 . 
     The optimal dimensions and/or configuration of the pod  12 , suite frame  20 , suite  30 , and/or cocoon sections  40  will vary from one embodiment of the portable structure  10  to the next, and are therefore in no way limiting to the scope thereof. The various elements of the portable structure  10  may be formed of any material that is suitable for the application for which the portable structure  10  is used. Such materials include but are not limited to metals and their metal alloys, polymeric materials, cellulosic materials, and/or combinations thereof. Furthermore, the scope of the portable structure  10  is in no way limited by the specific shape and/or dimensions of the pod  12 , suite frame  20 , suite  30 , and/or cocoon sections  40  or the relative quantities and/or positions thereof. 
     Having described the preferred embodiment, other features, advantages, and/or efficiencies of the portable structure  10  will undoubtedly occur to those versed in the art, as will numerous modifications and alterations of the disclosed embodiments and methods, all of which may be achieved without departing from the spirit and scope of the portable structure  10  as disclosed and claimed herein. It should be noted that the portable structure  10  is not limited to the specific embodiments pictured and described herein, but are intended to apply to all similar apparatuses for providing services and/or shelter in an expedient manner. Modifications and alterations from the described embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art without departure from the spirit and scope of portable structure  10 . 
     2. General Description and Method of Use 
     A general description of the several elements of the portable structure  10  and how those elements may be assembled will now be described. However, the following description and method of construction is merely illustrative, and therefore will be different from one embodiment of the portable structure  10  to the next. Accordingly, the precise steps within the method of construction and various embodiments of the portable structure  10  are not meant to be limiting with respect to the scope of the claims herein. 
     First, the pod  12  of the portable structure  10  is positioned so the large back access door (not shown, but on the end of the pod  12  that is adjacent the suite  30  when fully deployed) faces down slope, after which the user may enter the pod  12  via a pod access door  17  and start the generator(s)  2 . If a night operation, the user may also turn on interior lighting (not shown) and deploy the outside flood light system (not shown). The user then activates the pod leveling screws  14 , which may be controlled by a laser level (not shown), computer (not shown), and rotational power source (not shown) so the pod  12  is level. The leveling screws  14  may also be adjusted manually. Contained within the pod  12  may be all the elements to construct the suite  30 . 
     An access panel storage area (not shown, but which may be positioned above or below the large back access door) houses the strong and lightweight, specially designed ground rails  21  and other lower-section elements of the suite frame  20 . The user then opens the access panel and removes the ground rails  21  and assembles them on the ground, whether the ground is even or uneven, in the configuration desired. The user then anchors the ground rails  21  to the ground utilizing the specially designed anchor rods (not shown) and anchors or the ground rail supports  21   a  so that their position is fixed. 
     A second access panel storage area (not shown) houses the strong and lightweight vertical rail sections  22  and cables that will be used to erect each upright  24  that will engage the ground rails  21 . This access panel may be positioned adjacent the catwalk  19 . Alternatively, one large access panel storage area may be used to hold all elements used to construct the suite frame  20 . Accordingly, as long as the pod  12  includes storage areas of sufficient size to hold all elements of the suite frame  20 , the storage areas may be configured in any manner without limitation. 
     Once the ground rails  21  are in place, and before any uprights  24  are assembled, the following is initiated: (1) a lap top computer (not shown) connected to a plug-in laser level measuring instrument (not shown) are both activated; (2) the laser level measuring instrument (not shown) is used in conjunction with the laptop computer to establish and save the “level” elevations for the suite frame  20 ; (3) the specially designed software will calculate the combination of various color coded components, locations, and elevations necessary for each upright  24 , and the number of vertical rail sections  22  needed, once in the final position, so that the suite frame  20  will be level. A different method may be used if the ground rail supports  21   a  are used to level the ground rails  21 . 
     Throughout the deployment and construction of the portable unit  10 , the personnel may receive guidance from the laptop, which may also provide instructions as to the correct manner in the deployment and assembly of the suite  30  and suite frame  20 . 
     Using the ladder  19   a , the user climbs on top of the pod  12  and opens the access door (not shown) and then expands the catwalk  19 . Next, the specially designed strong and light weight vertical rail sections  22  may be removed along with the specially designed arch supports  23 , cross members  25 , center floor members  27   c , outside and inside floor supports  27   a ,  27   b , and cables  28   a ,  28   b . The vertical rail sections  22  having the specially designed vertical rail rollers  22   a  may be positioned adjacent the ground rails  21 . The specially designed cocoon sections  40  and mesh covering  38  that will add rigidity to the structure may be removed from the pod  12 . 
     The various elements then may be assembled per instruction. First, two vertical rail rollers  22   a  are affixed to two vertical rail sections  22  unless such vertical rail sections  22  have already been outfitted with vertical rail rollers  22   a . Next, two outside floor supports  27   a  are placed on the two vertical rail sections  22 . Additional vertical rail sections  22  are then connected on each side of the upright  24  using sleeve connectors  26  and pins  26   a  or an equalizer  29   e.    
     Once each side of the upright  24  is constructed to the specified height (as determined by the computer), the arch support  23  is connected to both sides. Next, a horizontal cable  28   a  and corresponding cable brackets (not shown) are installed at each end of the arch support  23 . A vertical cable  28   b  and corresponding cable bracket (not shown) is placed at the top of the arch support  23 . The next upright  24  is assembled in the same manner, and after two uprights  24  have been assembled, they are affixed to one another with cross members  25 . Also, a portion of the mesh covering  38  may be placed over the furthest upright  24 . With the exception of the outside and inside floor supports  27   a ,  27   b , ground rails  21 , vertical rail rollers  22   a , and other elements located below the floor sheet  48 , the assembly work is done from on top of the pod  12 . 
     As each upright  24  is assembled, the bottom vertical rail section  22  having the vertical rail roller  22   a  attached thereto rests in/on the respective ground rail  21 . As each new upright  24  is erected, it is attached to the last upright  24  assembled via a plurality of cross members  25  and it, with the previous uprights  24 , rolls down the ground rails  21  away from the pod  12 . Once each new upright  24  is erected, a mesh covering  38  and a cocoon section  40  may be secured to that specific upright  24 . 
     Once the cocoon sections  40  and/or mesh covering  38  is secured to the upright  24 , that upright  24  is moved forward away from the pod  12 , utilizing a winch system (not shown), on the ground rails  21 . The process continues on the next upright  24  and until the entire suite frame  20 , mesh covering  38 , and cocoon sections  40  are assembled and erected. 
     The first upright  24  will also have an “end section” installed. A specially designed guidance system advances the completed uprights in a precise manner along the entire length of the ground rails  21 . Once the suite frame  20  is assembled and erected and is secured to the ground rails  21 , the inner floor elements may be installed. 
     The first step in installing the floor is to laser the correct elevations for a level floor. This ensures that the elevation of the floor is level no matter what the topography on which the portable structure  10  rests. The pod  12  may be anchored to the uneven ground, and slopping down, but because the floor elevation is laser leveled, the interior floor of both the suite  30  and the pod  12  are level. 
     Once the laser level has established the proper floor elevation with respect to each vertical rail section  22 , the user may then position and secure the specially designed outside floor supports  27   a  on the vertical rail sections  22 . Next the user may laser the elevation of the specially designed inside floor supports  27   b  and center floor member  27   c  with respect to the vertical cables  28   b . Then the inside floor supports  27   b  and center floor member  27   c  may be secured in position on each vertical cable  28   b . After the outside and inside floor supports  27   a ,  27   b  have been leveled and secured, the floor sheet  48  is extended and rests upon the floor support platforms  29   c  of the outside and inside floor supports  27   a ,  27   b . If the floor sheet  48  is modular, a specially designed tape may be used to cover all the joints, cracks, and seams to ensure a closed environment. 
     At this point, the cocoon sections  40  may be activated to provide the necessary protection to ensure a hermetically safe environment within the suite  30 . The suite  30  and pod  12  now function as a portable structure  10  that is able to be erected on an uneven surface and have a hermetically sealed environment with a level and flat floor on which to conduct emergency operations. With the portable structure  10  complete and sealed, the HVAC  4 , lighting systems, treatment areas  32 , and electrical systems are rapidly deployed and the portable structure  10  is up and running 
     The portable structure  10  may consist of the following the items listed below, which are approximate in size and scope, pending the engineering design and the desired size and scope required for the specific application. 
     A pod  12  of approximately thirty six feet in length may contain at least the following: a working area adjacent the end of the pod  12  that will be connected to the suite  30 ; catwalk  19  and ladder  19   a ; uprights  24  and the elements required to assemble them; cocoon sections  40 ; mesh covering  38 ; ground rails  21 ; floor sheet  48 ; HVAC  2 ; generators  2 ; breaker panels  7 ; water control center  9 ; HVAC ductwork  36 ; light fixtures  37 ; electrical conduit  34 ; and electrical outlets  35 . When assembled the portable structure  10  will offer the insulated, hermitically controlled environment, for all circumstances, i.e., air-conditioned or heated, lighted, and sheltered from all the elements including the sun, rain, wind, snow, and/or ice. 
     Each cocoon section  40  is constructed of material that is incredibly strong, insulated, and durable. Each cocoon section  40  may be made of a plurality of modular units of approximately 20 feet in length and may be erected in sections. When the cocoon sections  40  are attached to one another they may be deployed over a suite frame  20  of twenty feet, forty feet, sixty feet, or any other length desired to accommodate the disaster or other need. Cocoon sections  40  may be fabricated to other lengths as well, and the specific length thereof is in therefore no way limiting. 
     The portable structure  10  may be erected large enough to accommodate forty people, sixty people, or more as the design specification require. The portable structure  10  may be fully functional and able to accept response teams, people or patients in a matter of ninety minutes or less, depending on the size of the portable structure. 
     Each portable structure  10  will be specifically outfitted to accommodate the specific mission of various agencies. For certain applications, some items may remain in the pod  12  throughout construction of the suite  30  and while the portable structure  10  is in use. For example, if the portable structure  10  is used as a triage facility, the following list is an example of some items that may remain inside the pod  12 : a control center that monitors lighting, heating, cooling, water supply levels, discharge water levels, etc.; at least one generator  2  sized to provide all the electric needs; an HVAC with the associated controls; a reservoir providing potable water supply; a reservoir to collect discharge/waste water; pharmaceutical supplies and first aid supplies; a refrigerated chest for accommodating IV fluids; cabinets for other medical supplies; cabinet for uniforms, clothing, masks, gloves, etc.; sink and drains for washing purposes; a chemical toilet; a shower facility; hazardous waste receptacles; sharps and needle receptacles; sleeping and resting area, and any other supplies suitable for the particular application for which the portable structure is designed. 
     Other items that may be placed within the portable structure  10  that will be utilized in the portable structure  10  once erected include but are not limited to: a triage stretcher and sled; lighting units to illuminate the suite  30 ; HVAC ductwork  36 ; electrical outlets  35 ; waste containers; IV poles and other necessary equipment for the specific application of the portable structure  10 . 
     The pod  12  may also have suitable apparatus and hooks (not shown) allowing the pod  12  to be air lifted to inaccessible disaster areas via helicopter. In another embodiment, the pod  12  is outfitted with a retractable axle and wheel assembly to transport the pod  12  via roadways as indicated in  FIG. 11 . 
     The portable structure  10  affords emergency response personnel the ability to respond rapidly to any area, under any circumstances, day or night, winter or summer, heat, rain, snow or ice, and in a matter of minutes. Utilizing the portable structure  10  will provide a new dimension to the quality of care and the time-critical activity that is necessary to address the immediate threat or to treat and save lives on-site before transporting to another area. One of the most important features of the portable structure  10  is the ability to be utilized for an indefinite period of time in multiple scenarios. It may be used repeatedly for many years with the same assurance in quality response to any scenario. 
     All dimensions shown, described, indicated, or otherwise presented herein are for illustrative purposes only, and in no way limit the scope of the portable structure  10 . It should be noted that the is not limited to the specific embodiments pictured and described herein. Modifications and alterations from the described embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art without departure from the spirit and scope of the portable structure.