Abstract:
A portable anchoring apparatus and kit is provided which allows large animals to be safely hitched a safe distance from an anchoring object (e.g., a motor vehicle). Other embodiments of the portable anchoring apparatus and kit include a portable anchored table, a portable anchored large sign, and a portable anchored combination table and large sign.

Description:
FIELD 
       [0001]    This disclosure relates to the field of portable anchored objects. More particularly, this disclosure relates to a portable anchoring apparatus for providing sturdy and safe anchoring for large animals. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    The need for safely hitching large animals in remote places has been around for hundreds of years. In modern times, there are numerous laws and/or rules in various jurisdictions including state and federal parks detailing to what a large animal (e.g., a horse) may be hitched. Hitching horses to trees or bushes, for example, is sometimes not allowed. In such cases, an alternative hitching rail is needed. 
         [0003]    For this and other reasons, certain horse trailers such as, for example, the horse trailer described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,159,142 to Larson entitled “Foldable Exterior Feeding And Watering Facilities For Animal Carrying Vehicles,” have provided a rail or other means that extends from the side of a large (and often expensive) animal trailer. However, this option has proven undesirable for a number of reasons including, for example, large animals tearing such rails from the sides of trailers; animals kicking, rubbing, or biting such vehicles and, thereby, causing significant damage to such vehicles; and injuries received by hitched animals from contact with anchoring animal trailers due to the proximity of such animals to the directly attached anchoring structure. 
         [0004]    What is needed, therefore, is an anchoring apparatus that overcomes the deficiencies described above. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0005]    The above and other needs are met by a portable, quick assembly anchoring apparatus for hitching a large animal at a safe distance from an anchoring object. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus includes an anchoring platform; a plurality of elongate base members, including a first base member and a second base member; and a rail apparatus including a first end and a second end. Each base member includes a first end and a second end and is removably attachable adjacent the anchoring platform at or near the respective first ends of the base members. The rail apparatus is preferably removably attachable adjacent the base members at or near the first end and the second end of the rail apparatus and at or near the respective second ends of the base members. 
         [0006]    In a preferred embodiment, the anchoring apparatus includes a primary member, a secondary member, and a tertiary member. The first ends of the base members are located along the secondary members, the second ends of the base members are located along the tertiary members, and the tertiary members are removably attachable to the secondary members. The tertiary member of the first base member preferably includes a first transition member oriented substantially orthogonal to the first base member and an elongate first support member preferably removably attachable to a distal end of the first transition member. The tertiary member of the second base preferably includes a second transition member oriented substantially orthogonal to the second base member and an elongate second support member preferably removably attachable to a distal end of the second transition member. 
         [0007]    The anchoring apparatus may also include an elongate first extension member removably attachable at or near the first end of the rail apparatus and a first side support removably attachable at or near a distal end of the first extension member. The first side support is preferably oriented substantially orthogonal to the extension member. A distal end of the first side support is located adjacent an imaginary ground plane defined along the base members so as to provide support for the first extension member. 
         [0008]    The anchoring apparatus may also include a side support extension member removably attached to the first end of the side support. The side support extension member preferably includes an attached convenience feature. This convenience feature may, for example, be an apparatus selected from the group consisting of a bridle holder and a solar powered light. 
         [0009]    The anchoring apparatus may further include an elongate second extension member removably attachable at or near the second end of the rail apparatus and a second side support removably attachable at or near a distal end of the second extension member. The second side support is preferably oriented substantially orthogonal to the extension member. A distal end of the second side support is located adjacent an imaginary ground plane defined along the base members so as to provide support for the second extension member. 
         [0010]    The anchoring platform preferably includes a mass receiving platform having a first end and a second end. The mass receiving platform preferably includes a substantially planar plate configured for receiving one or more anchoring objects, a first guide member attached at or near the first end of the mass receiving platform, and a second guide member attached at or near the second end of the mass receiving platform. The first guide member is preferably oriented substantially perpendicular to the length axis of the mass receiving platform wherein the first guide member is configured for removable attachment adjacent the first end of the first base member. The second guide member is preferably oriented substantially perpendicular to the length axis of the mass receiving platform wherein the second guide member is configured for removable attachment adjacent the first end of the second base member. 
         [0011]    The rail apparatus preferably includes a primary rail, a secondary rail, and a plurality of cross rails. The primary rail and the secondary rail are substantially parallel. At least two of the cross rails are oriented substantially orthogonal to the primary rail. The primary rail and the secondary rail are both attached to the at least two cross rails. 
         [0012]    The transition members, base members, support members, rail apparatus, extension members, and side supports each preferably include substantially hollow metal beams having an average wall thickness ranging from about 2.5 mm to about 4.0 mm and an average cross-sectional diameter ranging from about 2.0 cm to about 7.0 cm, wherein the metal is selected from the group consisting of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, magnesium, a magnesium alloy, titanium, a titanium alloy, iron, and an iron alloy. 
         [0013]    In one embodiment, the extension member may be reciprocated within at least a portion of a hollow interior of the rail apparatus. In this embodiment, the extension member may be set in a temporary fixed position relative to the rail apparatus by an attachment apparatus whereby the portion of the length of the extension member extending from the first end of the rail apparatus may be selectively adjusted. Similarly, in the same or a related embodiment, the first base member may be reciprocated within a hollow interior of the first guide member. The second base member may be reciprocated within a hollow interior of the second guide member. The anchoring platform may be set in a temporary fixed position relative to the base members by an attachment apparatus. 
         [0014]    In another aspect, embodiments of the disclosure provide an apparatus for a multipurpose portable anchoring apparatus that includes a plurality of elongate base members including a first base member and a second base member, an anchoring platform, a first guide, a second guide member, and an application apparatus. Each base member includes a first end and a second end. The application apparatus is preferably removably attached at or near the second ends of the base members. 
         [0015]    The anchoring platform preferably includes a mass receiving platform having a first end and a second end. The mass receiving platform preferably includes a substantially planar plate for receiving one or more anchoring objects. The first guide member is attached at or near the first end of the mass receiving platform. The first guide member is preferably oriented substantially perpendicular to the length axis of the mass receiving platform for removable attachment to the first base member at or near the first end of the first base member. The second guide member is preferably attached at or near the second end of the mass receiving platform. The second guide member is preferably oriented substantially perpendicular to the length axis of the mass receiving platform for removable attachment to the second base member at or near the first end of the second base member. 
         [0016]    The multipurpose portable anchoring apparatus preferably further includes an embodiment wherein the application apparatus includes a rail apparatus including a first end and a second end; wherein the first base member further includes an elongate first support member including a first end and a second end, and the second base member further includes an elongate second support member including a first end and a second end; wherein the support members are permanently or removably attached to the rail apparatus at or near the second ends of the support members. 
         [0017]    The application apparatus may alternatively or additionally include a support platform. In such an embodiment, the support platform may include a substantially planar upper surface wherein the first base member further includes an elongate first modified support member and the second base member further includes an elongate second modified support member. The first modified support member and the second modified support member both include a first end, a second end, and a support arm. The support arms of the modified support members are permanently or removably attached to the support platform for supporting the support platform. 
         [0018]    The application apparatus of the multipurpose portable anchoring apparatus may also additionally or alternatively include a first post beam, second post beam, and a display structure that includes a sign surface. The post beams each include a first end and a second end. The first modified support member is preferably removably attached to the first post beam at or near the second end of the first modified support member and at or near the first end of the first post member. The second modified support member is preferably removably attached to the second post beam at or near the second end of the second modified support member and at or near the first end of the second post member. The display structure is permanently or removably attached to the post members at or near the second ends of the post members. In a related embodiment, the first base member is removably attached to the first post beam at or near the second end of the first base member and at or near the first end of the first post member. The second base member is removably attached to the second post beam at or near the second end of the base member and at or near the first end of the second post member. The display structure is permanently or removably attached to the post members at or near the second ends of the post members. 
         [0019]    In yet another aspect, embodiments of the disclosure provide a kit including parts for constructing various versions of the portable anchoring apparatus described above. In one embodiment, the kit includes a plurality of elongate base members, an anchoring member, and an application apparatus. Each base member includes a first end and a second end. The anchoring member is removably attachable to the elongate base members at or near the first ends of the base members. The application apparatus is removably attachable at or near the second ends of the base members. 
         [0020]    In one embodiment, the application apparatus includes a rail apparatus appendage and a plurality of support members. Each support member includes a first end and a second end. Each support member is removably attachable to the base members at or near the second ends of the base members and at or near the first ends of the support members. The rail apparatus includes a hitching rail which is removably attachable to the support members at or near the second ends of the support members. The kit may also include a first and second extension member and a first and second side support. The side supports provide support to the extension members. The first and second ends and first and second side supports each contain a first and second end. The first extension member is removably attachable to the rail apparatus at or near the first end of the rail apparatus and at or near the first end of the first extension member. The second extension member is removably attachable to the rail apparatus at or near the second end of the rail apparatus and at or near the first end of the second extension member. The first side support is removably attachable to the first extension member at or near the second end of the first extension member and at or near the first end of the first side support. The second side support is removably attachable to the second extension member at or near the second end of the second extension member and at or near the first end of the second side support. 
         [0021]    The kit also may contain groups of further parts. These other groups are selected from the group consisting of a sign appendage, a table appendage, and a sign and table appendage. The sign appendage includes a first post beam, a second post beam, and a display structure. The first and second post beams each include a first and second end. The display structure includes a sign surface. 
         [0022]    The first base member is removably attachable to the first post beam at or near the second end of the first base member and at or near the first end of the first post member. The second base member is removably attachable to the second post beam at or near the second end of the base member and at or near the first end of the second post member. The display structure is permanently attached or removably attachable to the post members at or near the second ends of the post members. 
         [0023]    The table appendage includes a support platform, a first modified support member and a second modified support member. The support platform preferably includes a substantially planar upper surface. The first modified support member and the second modified support member each include a first end, a second end, and a support arm. The support arms of the modified support members are removably attachable to the support platform for supporting the support platform. The modified support members are removably attachable to the base members at or near the first ends of the modified support members and at or near the second ends of the base members. 
         [0024]    The sign and table appendage further includes the modified support members, the first post beam, the second post beam, and the display structure including the sign surface. The first ends of the post beams are removable attachable to the second ends of the modified support members. 
         [0025]    Embodiments of the present disclosure have many advantages. For example, the portable anchoring apparatus and variations thereof is structured so as to keep hitched animals a certain minimal distance away from an anchoring object (e.g., a trailer or other expensive vehicle). The use of one or more extension members prevents an animal (e.g., a horse) from getting close enough to the anchoring object to paw, chew, kick, gore, and/or rub such anchoring object. In so doing, both the anchoring object is protected from damage caused by the hitched animal and the animal is protected from sharp objects or other hazards that may be present on the anchoring object. 
         [0026]    Another advantage is that the various parts of the portable anchoring apparatus are not directly or otherwise permanently attached to an anchoring object. Rather, the anchoring object provides substantial mass only on the mass receiving platform to prevent the portable anchoring apparatus from moving, but will not cause direct damage to the anchoring object if, for example, a horse pulls suddenly and/or violently away from the portable anchoring apparatus, causing the apparatus to break or otherwise fail. 
         [0027]    Another advantage of various embodiments described above is a sturdy and robust support platform may be transported to/from remote locations and used effectively in many different ways, such as, for example, a table. The spacing between an anchoring object and the support platform is ideal for a person to stand or sit as in a booth, kiosk, stand or other similar booth-like structure. Large signage may also be employed and supported on such booth-like structure, attracting attention to the location where the particular apparatus is assembled and deployed. The signage may be used with or without the use of a support platform. Therefore, the majority of parts of various embodiments are usable in various configurations, resulting in significant flexibility for a user who may have a need to use a remote hitching rail at a first event, a remote booth at a second event, and a large sign with no booth at a third event or location. 
         [0028]    The portable nature of the various embodiments is particularly useful in hard terrain and/or the winter months in northern zones (or southern zones as the case may be below the equator) where the ground is too hard to anchor a large sign or other structure by digging into the ground. In any event, each embodiment may be quickly and easily assembled and/or disassembled with few tools, if any, depending on the particular embodiment used. 
         [0029]    In summary the embodiments described herein provide a convenient, robust, relatively lightweight, rapid assemble/disassemble structure for performing activities in remote locations including hitching strong animals at a desired distance from an anchoring object, providing a booth-like site with or without relatively large signage, and providing relatively large signage for attracting the attention of on-lookers. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0030]    Further features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, appended claims, and accompanying figures, wherein elements are not to scale so as to more clearly show the details, wherein like reference numbers indicate like elements throughout the several views, and wherein: 
           [0031]      FIG. 1  shows a perspective view of an embodiment of portable anchoring apparatus including a hitching rail; 
           [0032]      FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of a base member that forms part of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0033]      FIG. 3  shows a side view of the base member shown in  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0034]      FIG. 4  shows a perspective view of a portion of an anchoring member which forms part of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0035]      FIG. 5  shows a side view of a rail apparatus that forms part of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0036]      FIG. 6  shows an illustrative view of an embodiment of a portable anchoring apparatus including a hitching rail; 
           [0037]      FIG. 7  shows a narrower angle view of the portable anchoring apparatus shown in  FIG. 6 ; 
           [0038]      FIG. 8  shows a slightly angled view of a portion of the portable anchoring apparatus shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7 ; 
           [0039]      FIG. 9  shows a perspective view of the apparatus shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7 ; 
           [0040]      FIG. 10  shows a side view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 8 ; 
           [0041]      FIG. 11  shows a somewhat schematic and perspective view or a portable anchoring apparatus including a support structure; 
           [0042]      FIG. 12  shows an illustrative view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 11 ; 
           [0043]      FIG. 13  shows a modified embodiment of the portable anchoring apparatus shown in  FIGS. 11 and 12  wherein the illustrated embodiment further includes a sign; 
           [0044]      FIG. 14  shows a rear view of the sign and sign support posts from the embodiment shown in  FIG. 13 ; 
           [0045]      FIG. 15  shows another embodiment of a portable anchoring apparatus similar to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 13  but without the support structure; 
           [0046]      FIG. 16  shows an exemplary embodiment of an attachment means that may be used to attach beams together in certain embodiments of the invention; 
           [0047]      FIG. 17  shows another exemplary embodiment of an attachment means that may be used to attach beams together in certain embodiments of the invention; 
           [0048]      FIG. 18  shows another exemplary embodiment of an attachment means that may be used to attach beams and other structures together in certain embodiments of the invention; and 
           [0049]      FIG. 19  shows a close up view of a device used to attach structures together to form certain embodiments of the invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0050]    Various terms used herein are intended to have particular meanings. Some of these terms are defined below for the purpose of clarity. The definitions given below are meant to cover all forms of the words being defined (e.g., singular, plural, present tense, past tense). If the definition of any term below diverges from the common understood and/or dictionary definition of such term, the definitions below control. 
         [0051]    Attach: Any form of the term “attach” as stated in this disclosure is to be interpreted broadly as encompassing permanent attachment or removable attachment capability unless otherwise expressly limited herein. 
         [0052]    Attachment apparatus: any apparatus used to attach a first object to a second object, such apparatus becoming a part of the compound structure formed by the attachment of the first object to the second object. 
         [0053]    Beam: an elongate and sturdy object that, optionally, may be at least partially hollow and which, optionally, may have a substantially continuous curved elongate surface (e.g., like a pole) and/or a plurality of elongate surfaces, one or more of which, optionally, may be substantially planar. 
         [0054]    Extension (noun): a sub-part of a larger structure, the subpart attached to other sub-parts of such larger structure by attachment means known to persons having ordinary skill in the art including without limitation welding or an attachment apparatus. 
         [0055]    Permanent means of attachment: A solid object, semi-solid object (e.g., a gel), liquid substance, or portion of a structure resulting from a method of attaching a plurality of solid objects to one another, such object, substance, and/or method usable to create a compound structure by attaching at least two previously physically separated solid objects (e.g., a first object and a second object), wherein the attachment between the first object and the second object is such that significant undesirable damage to the first object and/or the second object is likely to occur if the compound structure is forced to be physically re-separated. 
         [0056]    Removable: A quality or capability of a first object being separable from a second object after the first object and the second object have been attached together to form a compound structure. A first object is removable from a second object if the first object has been attached to the second object via a non-permanent means of attachment. 
         [0057]    Selectively Attached: A quality of a first object being removably attachable to a second object at a plurality of preferably incrementally separated locations along the second object. 
         [0058]    Sturdy: an object having an average Young&#39;s Modulus (E) of about 10 Gigapascals (GPa), and, preferably, greater than 40 GPa. 
         [0059]      FIG. 1  depicts a preferred embodiment of a portable anchoring apparatus  100  including a plurality of elongate, preferably L-shaped, base members  102  including a first base member  102 A and a second base member  102 B, each base member  102  including a vertical extension  104  (including a first vertical extension  104 A and a second vertical extension  104 B), a primary horizontal base member  105  (including a first primary horizontal base member  105 A and a second primary horizontal base member  105 B), and a secondary horizontal base member  106  (including a first secondary horizontal base member  106 A and a second secondary horizontal base member  106 B); an anchoring platform  107  removably and selectively attachable to the elongate base members  102  substantially along the length axes of the secondary horizontal base members  106 ; a plurality of elongate support members  108  including a first support member  108 A removably attachable to the first vertical extension  104 A at or near a first end  110 A of the first base member  102 A, and a second support member  108 B removably attachable to the second vertical extension  104 B at or near a first end  112 A of the second base member  102 B; and a rail apparatus  114  removably attached to the first support member  108 A at or near a first end  116 A of the first support member  108 A, and to the second support member  108 B at or near a first end  118 A of the second support member  108 B. 
         [0060]    As shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , the horizontal base members  105  and  106  are preferably in the form of wholly or partially hollow beams having a substantially polygonal cross sectional shape (e.g., square). The cross section of the primary horizontal base members  105  are preferably slightly larger than a preferably similarly shaped cross section of the secondary horizontal base members  106 . Although polygonal cross-sectional shapes are shown and described here and elsewhere with respect to the horizontal base members and other elements, non-polygonal cross sectional shapes (e.g., circles, ovals, or other non-polygonal shapes) are also contemplated by this disclosure and are preferably used for the cross sections of the vertical extensions  104 . Similarly, where curved cross sectional shapes are said to be preferred, non-curved cross sectional shapes (e.g., polygons) are also contemplated by this disclosure in various embodiments. 
         [0061]    The secondary horizontal base members  106  preferably have a length (LB) ranging from about 100 cm to about 150 cm, more preferably from about 115 cm to about 130 cm, and most preferably about 122 cm. For example, the secondary horizontal base members  106 , if in a circular cross sectional configuration, preferably have an average cross-sectional outside diameter ranging from about 2.54 cm to about 7.62 cm, more preferably from about 4.45 cm to about 5.72 cm, and most preferably about 5.08 cm. If, for example, the secondary horizontal base members  106  have a square cross sectional configuration as shown in  FIGS. 1-3 , the length of one side preferably ranges from about 2.54 cm to about 7.62 cm, more preferably from about 4.5 cm to about 5.75 cm, and most preferably about 5 cm. The secondary horizontal base members  106  also preferably include first apertures  120  as shown in  FIG. 2  for removable attachment to additional structures. 
         [0062]    The primary horizontal base members  105  preferably have a length (LT) ranging from about 75 cm to about 115 cm, more preferably from about 85 cm to about 100 cm, and most preferably about 92 cm. The primary horizontal base members  105 , if in a circular cross sectional configuration, preferably have an average cross-sectional outside diameter (or side length in the case of, for example, a square cross sectional configuration) ranging from about 5 cm to about 10 cm, more preferably from about 5.75 cm to about 7 cm, and most preferably about 6.35 cm. The support members  108  preferably have a length ranging from about 80 cm to about 140 cm, more preferably from about 95 cm to about 125 cm, and most preferably about 109 cm. The support members  108 , if having a circular cross sectional configuration for example, preferably have an average cross-sectional outside diameter ranging from about 2.5 cm to about 7.6 cm, more preferably from about 4.5 cm to about 5.75 cm, and most preferably about 5 cm. If, for example, the support members  108  have a square cross sectional configuration, the length of one side preferably ranges from about 2.54 cm to about 7.6 cm, more preferably from about 4.5 cm to about 5.75 cm, and most preferably about 5 cm. 
         [0063]    With reference to  FIGS. 1-4 , the anchoring platform  107  preferably further includes a mass receiving platform  122  and a plurality of guide members  124  including a first guide member  124 A and a second guide member  124 B. The guide members  124  are preferably shaped so as to be capable of sliding or otherwise being movable along the respective secondary horizontal base members  106 . The guide members  124  also preferably include second apertures  126  for removably attaching the secondary horizontal base members  106  in a substantially fixed position relative to the anchoring platform  107  using a pin or other means of non-permanent attachment through the first apertures  120  and the second apertures  126 . The mass receiving platform  122  preferably is in the form of a channel for receiving a vehicle tire or tires. The mass receiving platform  122  preferably has a length ranging from about 1.25 meters (m) to about 1.85 m, more preferably from about 1.45 m to about 1.65 m, and most preferably about 1.55 m. The mass receiving platform  122  preferably has a width ranging from about 25 cm to about 35 cm, more preferably from about 28 cm to about 32 cm, and most preferably about 30 cm. The mass receiving platform  122  preferably has a material thickness ranging from about 7.2 millimeters (mm) to about 8.0 mm, more preferably from about 7.5 mm to about 7.7 mm, and most preferably about 7.6 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the mass receiving platform  122  further includes side walls  123  to form a channel-like shape, the side walls having an average height preferably ranging from about 3 cm to about 12 cm, more preferably from about 5 cm to about 10 cm, and most preferably about 7.5 cm. 
         [0064]    The guide members  124  preferably have a length ranging from about 40 cm to about 50 cm, more preferably from about 44 cm to about 48 cm, and most preferably about 45.7 cm. The guide members  124 , if having a circular cross sectional configuration, preferably have an average cross-sectional outside diameter (or side length in the case of, for example, a square cross sectional configuration) ranging from about 5 cm to about 10 cm, more preferably from about 5.75 cm to about 7 cm, and most preferably about 6.35 cm. 
         [0065]    The vertical extensions  104  of the base members  102  are preferably oriented for removable attachment to second ends  116 B and  118 B of the support members  108 , respectively. Persons having ordinary skill in the art, however, appreciate that any attachment apparatus capable of sufficiently attaching a transition member to a support member will suffice. The rail apparatus  114  preferably further includes a primary rail  132 , a secondary rail  134 , and a plurality of cross rails  136 , at least two of such cross rails  136  being oriented substantially orthogonal to the primary rail  132  and secondary rail  134 . As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 6 , the support members  108  are preferably in the form of wholly or partially hollow beams having a substantially curved cross sectional shape (e.g., circular) that is slightly smaller (or, alternatively, larger) than similarly shaped cross sections of the vertical extensions  104  and the cross bars  136  so that the support members  108  may be slid within (or, alternatively, along) and attached to the vertical extensions  104  and the cross bars  136 . More specifically, in the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1 ,  5 , and  9 , a portion of the cross rails  136  are also used to removably attach the first ends  116 A and  118 A of the support members  108  to the rail apparatus  114 . The cross rails  136  preferably include hollow receiving ends  138 A and  138 B to enable the first ends  116 A and  118 A of the support members  108  to fit and attach in the receiving ends  138 A and  138 B by use of an attachment apparatus (e.g., apertures and pins as described above). The vertical extensions  104  of the base members  102  preferably offer similar hollow receiving ends  110 A and  112 A to enable the second ends  116 B and  118 B of the support members  108  to fit and attach therein by use of an attachment apparatus. 
         [0066]    In an alternative embodiment, the ends  138  of the cross rails  136  may fit and be attachable within the first ends  116 A and  118 A of the support members  108 . Similarly, the ends  110 A and  112 A of the vertical extensions  104  may fit and be attachable within the second ends  116 B and  118 B of the support member  108 . Various other attachment apparatuses and configurations are contemplated in this disclosure. 
         [0067]    With reference back to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1-3  and  5 , primary rail  132 , if having a circular cross sectional configuration, preferably has an average cross-sectional outside diameter (or side length in the case of, for example, a square cross sectional configuration) ranging from about 5 cm to about 10 cm, more preferably from about 5.75 cm to about 7 cm, and most preferably about 6.35 cm. The primary rail  132  preferably has a length ranging from about 1.90 m to about 2.90 m, more preferably from about 2.20 m to about 2.60 m, and most preferably about 2.40 m. The vertical extensions  104 , if having a circular cross sectional configuration, preferably have an average cross-sectional outside diameter (or side length in the case of, for example, a square cross sectional configuration) ranging from about 5 cm to about 10 cm, more preferably from about 5.75 cm to about 7 cm, and most preferably about 6.35 cm. The vertical extensions  104  preferably each have a length ranging from about 25 cm to about 37 cm, more preferably from about 28 cm to about 34 cm, and most preferably about 31 cm. The receiving ends  138 , if having a circular cross sectional configuration, preferably have an average cross-sectional outside diameter (or side length in the case of, for example, a square cross sectional configuration) ranging from about 5 cm to about 10 cm, more preferably from about 5.75 cm to about 7 cm, and most preferably about 6.35 cm. 
         [0068]      FIGS. 6-7  show a preferred embodiment of the portable anchoring apparatus  100  including a first extension member  142 A and a second extension member  142 B. The view in  FIG. 7  is oriented toward the space between the anchoring mass (e.g., a horse trailer, a truck, a car) and the support members  108  and the rail apparatus  114 . The first extension member  142 A, for example, further includes a first end  144 A and a second end  144 B wherein the first end  144 A is removably attached to a first end  146 A of the rail apparatus  114  (e.g., the primary rail  132 ). The first extension member  142 A is further supported by a first side support  148 A that is adjacent the ground, oriented substantially orthogonal to the first extension member  142 A, and removably attached to the first extension member  142 A at or near the second end  144 B of the first extension member  142 A. The first side support  148 A, for example, preferably extends beyond the second end  144 B of the extension member  142  as shown in  FIGS. 6 ,  7 , and  9 . As shown in  FIGS. 6-10 , a side support extension member  150  may be removably attached to a first end  152  of the first side support  148 A, the side support extension member  150  including features allowing a user to hang materials on the side of the anchoring apparatus  100 . Such features may include, for example, a bridle holder  153  and/or a solar powered light for use at night. The first side support  148 A itself may include an attachment structure for attaching a specifically designed item such as, for example, a saddle rest  154 . The distal side of the portable anchoring apparatus  100  preferably includes a second extension member  142 B, a second side support  148 B, and a second side support extension member  150 B as shown in  FIGS. 6-7 . 
         [0069]    As shown in  FIGS. 6-7 , the extension member  142  is preferably in the form of a wholly or partially hollow beam having a substantially curved cross sectional shape (e.g., circular). The extension member  142  preferably has a length ranging from about 2.1 m to about 2.6 m, more preferably from about 2.3 m to about 2.4 m, and most preferably about 2.35 m. The extension member  142  is preferably attached to the rail apparatus  114  and the side support  148  by locking pin attachment apparatuses as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 18-19 . The extension member  142 , if having a circular cross sectional configuration, preferably has an average cross-sectional outside diameter (or side length in the case of, for example, a square cross sectional configuration) ranging from about 2.54 cm to about 7.62 cm, more preferably from about 4.45 cm to about 5.72 cm, and most preferably about 5.08 cm. The side support  148  is preferably in the form of a wholly or partially hollow beam having a substantially polygonal cross sectional shape (e.g., square) and preferably has a length ranging from about 1.45 m to about 1.90 m, more preferably from about 1.60 m to about 1.70 m, and most preferably about 1.65 m. The side support  148 , if having a circular cross sectional configuration, preferably has an average cross-sectional outside diameter (or side length in the case of, for example, a square cross sectional configuration) ranging from about 2.54 cm to about 7.62 cm, more preferably from about 4.45 cm to about 5.72 cm, and most preferably about 5.08 cm. As shown in  FIGS. 6 ,  7 , and  9 , the side support extension member  150  is preferably in the form of a wholly or partially hollow beam having a substantially polygonal cross sectional shape (e.g., square) and preferably has a length ranging from about 20.5 cm to about 40.5 cm, more preferably from about 25.5 cm to about 35.5 cm, and most preferably about 30.5 cm. The side support extension member  150 , if having a circular cross sectional configuration, preferably has an average cross-sectional outside diameter (or side length in the case of, for example, a square cross sectional configuration) ranging from about 2.0 cm to about 6.9 cm, more preferably from about 4.0 cm to about 4.9 cm, and most preferably about 4.45 cm. 
         [0070]    In an alternative embodiment, the rail apparatus  114  is permanently attached to the support members  108  as, for example, by welding or manufacturing as a single piece. In a related embodiment, there is no secondary rail  134 . In yet another embodiment, the base members  102  may each further include a support member  108  permanently attached thereto as, for example, by welding or manufacturing as a single piece. In another embodiment, the base members  102  are permanently attached to the anchoring platform  107  as, for example, by welding or manufacturing as a single piece. In one particular embodiment, all of the pieces of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 1  may be permanently attached together as, for example, by welding or other permanent means of attachment. 
         [0071]    Another preferred embodiment of the disclosure is shown in  FIGS. 11 and 12 , showing a portable anchoring apparatus  156  including the base members  102 , the anchoring platform  107 , and the transition members  106 . The portable anchoring apparatus  156  further includes at least two modified support members  158 A and  158 B and a support platform  160 . The support platform  160  is preferably removably attached to attachment surfaces  162 A and  162 B along the modified support members  158  by, for example, bolts, screws, or other non-permanent attachment devices. Alternatively, the support platform  160  may be permanently attached to the modified support members  158  as, for example, by welding or other permanent means of attachment.  FIG. 12  shows an exemplary embodiment of the portable anchoring apparatus  156  wherein the support platform  160  is substantially parallel with the horizontal base members  105  and  106 , thereby providing, for example, a large table surface. Other embodiments are contemplated wherein the attachment surfaces  162  of the modified support members  158  are angled away from or, alternatively, toward the anchoring platform  107  so that the support platform  160 , when attached to the attachment surfaces  162 , is angled in the same manner as the attachment surfaces  162 . The upper surface  164  of the support platform  160  preferably has an area ranging from about 1.5 m 2  to about 3.0 m 2 , more preferably from about 1.7 m 2  to about 2.8 m 2 , and most preferably about 2.23 m 2 . 
         [0072]    In a related embodiment shown in  FIGS. 13-14 , the portable anchoring apparatus  156  further includes a sign apparatus  166 , the sign apparatus  166  including a display structure  168  attached (removably or permanently) to or near a first end  170 A of a first post member  172 A and a first end  174 A of a second post member  172 B.  FIG. 14  shows how the post members  172  may be attached to the display structure  168  using, for example, U-bolts. A second end  170 B of the first post member is configured for removable attachment to a first end  176 A of the first modified support member  158 A. Similarly, a second end  174 B of the second post member  172 B is configured for removable attachment to a first end  178 A of the second modified support member  158 B. In this way, the portable anchoring apparatus provides, for example, both a large table surface as well as a large sign surface  180 . The sign surface  180  preferably ranges from about 2.4 m 2  to about 3.6 m 2 , more preferably from about 2.7 m 2  to about 3.3 m 2 , and most preferably about 3.0 m 2 . The post members  172  are preferably in the form of wholly or partially hollow beams having a substantially polygonal cross sectional shape (e.g., square). 
         [0073]    In an alternative embodiment shown in  FIG. 15 , instead of using the modified support members  158 , the support members  108  in the prior embodiments may be used so as to provide a large area to provide signage without a support platform  160 . The length of the post members  172  preferably ranges from about 1.0 m to about 2.5 m, more preferably from about 1.78 m to about 1.88 m, and most preferably about 1.83 m. The post members  172 , if having a circular cross sectional configuration, preferably have an average cross-sectional outside diameter (or side length in the case of, for example, a square cross sectional configuration) ranging from about 2.0 cm to about 6.9 cm, more preferably from about 4.0 cm to about 4.9 cm, and most preferably about 4.45 cm. 
         [0074]    The various embodiments of the portable anchoring apparatuses described above are preferably made from a sturdy material such as, for example, aluminum, steel, titanium, and mixtures thereof. The most preferred material is aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The portable anchoring apparatuses may also be made from a sturdy composite material, a sturdy solidified polymer, wood, or other sturdy non-brittle material. The thickness of the various elements described above (excluding attachment apparatuses and other basic materials of construction known to a person having ordinary skill in the art) preferably ranges from about 2.5 mm to about 4.0 mm, more preferably from about 3.0 mm to about 3.4 mm, and most preferably about 3.2 mm. Various parts of the embodiments described above may be removably attached together using various attachment apparatuses known to persons having ordinary skill in the art. Other examples include a modified support member  108 ′ removably attached to a modified post member  172 ′ by a twist-lock male/female configuration.  FIG. 17  shows a removable attachment apparatus—a pin  180 —wherein one narrower portion  182  of a first object  184  slides into a wider portion  186  of a receiving object  188 , and the two objects are pinned together by inserting the pin  180  through a plurality of apertures  190 . In a preferred embodiment, the pin  180  may be further stabilized by inserting, for example, a locking clip  192  through a pin aperture  194 .  FIGS. 18 and 19  show yet another attachment apparatus including a locking pin  196  wherein such locking pin  196  may be inserted, preferably along grooves such as found on a screw, through an aperture  198  along a first object, wherein the aperture  198  is also preferably grooved to engage the locking pin  196 . A first end  200  of the locking pin  196  is further engageable with a second object locatable within the first object (e.g., a secondary horizontal base member  106  and a guide member  124  as shown in  FIG. 4 ). 
         [0075]    There are a variety of uses for the embodiments described herein, one of which is use as a portable horse hitching apparatus as shown in  FIGS. 1-10 . The embodiments shown in  FIGS. 1-10  may also be used to tie up one or more animals other than horses. Alternatively, the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 11-14  may be used as a portable table or other similar support structure that may be used, for example, as a display and/or selling booth, kiosk, and/or stand at a market or other event requiring a booth-like structure. The use as a booth-like structure may be enhanced by the addition of the sign apparatus  166  for attracting potential customers, visitors, or other on-lookers.  FIG. 15  shows yet another use as a large sign (without a booth-like structure) which may be assembled quickly to attract, warn, or otherwise provide information or expression of a concept to an on-looker. 
         [0076]    The previously described embodiments of the present disclosure have many advantages. For example, the portable anchoring apparatus  100  and variations thereof shown in  FIGS. 1-10  is structured so as to keep hitched animals a certain minimal distance away from the anchoring object (e.g., a trailer or other expensive vehicle). 
         [0077]    Additionally, the use of one or more extension members  142  prevents an animal (e.g., a horse) from getting close enough to the anchoring object to paw, chew, kick, gore, and/or rub such anchoring object. In so doing, both the anchoring object is protected from damage caused by the hitched animal and the animal is protected from sharp objects or other hazards that may be present on the anchoring object. 
         [0078]    Unlike many prior disclosed devices, the various parts of the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 1-10  are not directly or otherwise permanently attached to an anchoring object. Rather, the anchoring object provides substantial mass only on the mass receiving platform  122  to prevent the portable anchoring apparatus from moving, but will not cause direct damage to the anchoring object if, for example, a horse pulls suddenly and/or violently away from the portable anchoring apparatus, causing the apparatus to break or otherwise fail. 
         [0079]    The embodiments shown in  FIGS. 11-15  are advantageous because a sturdy and robust support platform may be transported to/from remote locations and used effectively in many different ways, such as, for example, a table. The spacing between an anchoring object and the support platform is ideal for a person to stand or sit as in a booth, kiosk, stand or other similar booth-like structure. Large signage may also be employed and supported on the booth-like structure (i.e., the sign apparatus  166 ), attracting attention to the location where the particular apparatus is assembled and deployed. The signage may be used with or without the use of a support platform. Therefore, the majority of parts of various embodiments are usable in various configurations, resulting in significant flexibility for a user who may have a need to use a remote hitching rail at a first event, a remote booth at a second event, and a large sign with no booth at a third event or location. The portable nature of the various embodiments is particularly useful in hard terrain and/or the winter months in northern zones (or southern zones as the case may be below the equator) where the ground is too hard to anchor a large sign or other structure by digging into the ground. 
         [0080]    Another significant advantage of all of the various embodiments described herein is the general portable nature of the embodiments. Each embodiment may be quickly and easily assembled and/or disassembled with few tools, if any, depending on the particular embodiment used. In summary the embodiments described herein provide a convenient, robust, relatively lightweight, rapid assemble/disassemble structure for performing activities in remote locations including hitching strong animals at a desired distance from an anchoring object, providing a booth-like site with or without relatively large signage, and providing relatively large signage for attracting the attention of on-lookers. 
         [0081]    The foregoing description of preferred embodiments of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. The described preferred embodiments are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the disclosure to the precise form(s) disclosed. Obvious modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiments are chosen and described in an effort to provide the best illustrations of the principles of the disclosure and its practical application, and to thereby enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the concepts revealed in the disclosure in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of the disclosure as determined by the appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they are fairly, legally, and equitably entitled. 
         [0082]    Any element in a claim that does not explicitly state “means for” performing a specified function, or “step for” performing a specific function, is not to be interpreted as a “means” or “step” clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. §112, ¶6. In particular, the use of “step of” in the claims herein is not intended to invoke the provisions of 35 U.S.C. §112, ¶6.