Patent ID: 12188250

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

While the portable barrier and its method of use described herein is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit the portable barrier and its method of use to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit of the inventions described herein.

Referring now toFIGS.1-12, there is shown a portable barrier10that incorporates the features of the present disclosure. The portable barrier10includes a pedestal assembly12and a cover assembly14. The portable barrier10further includes a junction assembly16interposed between the pedestal assembly12and the cover assembly14. The junction assembly includes a plurality of plates17A,17B,17C that are oriented parallel fashion with respect to each other. The plates17A,17B,17C are made of an aluminum material. The plates17A,17B,17C may alternatively be made from steel. In another alternative embodiment shown inFIGS.30-45, the plates17A,17B,17C are made of a plastic material such as a high density polyethylene material, such as a UHMW polyethylene material. Each of the plates17A,17B,17C possesses a generally circular configuration with a 4.5″ diameter as shown inFIGS.1-12(andFIGS.30-45). The junction assembly16further includes a plurality of bolts18A,18B,18C that extend through the plurality of plates (see, e.g.,FIGS.1,5and90). The bolt18A defines an axis A1, and the bolt18B defines an axis A2, and the bolt18C defines an axis A3as shown inFIGS.5and90. The lines defined by the axis A1, A2, and axis A3are parallel with respect to each other. The junction assembly16further includes a plurality of nuts19A,19B,19C that are respectively threadingly engaged to the plurality of bolts as shown inFIG.90. The junction assembly16also includes a set screw20that extends through the plate17A so as to threadingly engage one of the arms of the pedestal assembly12as shown inFIG.81. The operation of the junction assembly16will be discussed in further detail below.

The portable barrier10is configured to be moved between a protection mode of operation as shown inFIGS.1-12and a storage mode of operation as shown inFIGS.13,15, and16. When in the protection mode, the portable barrier10is configured to assume an expanded configuration which provides protection of an occupant26located in a cavity or occupant space28defined by the portable barrier as shown inFIGS.11-12. For example, the portable barrier10protects the occupant26from exposure to sun, wind, and/or rain while positioned in the occupant space28such as while the occupant is sitting in a chair27that is located in the occupant space and the chair is supported on a flooring of the portable barrier. (SeeFIGS.11-12.). Since the portable barrier10does not possess any side screens, the occupant26is allowed uninhibited laterally viewing out of the portable barrier. When in the storage mode, the portable barrier10is configured in a collapsed configuration which facilitates convenient transportation and storage of the portable barrier.

When in the storage mode, the portable barrier10is configured to be stowed in a flexible carrier bag30as shown inFIGS.14-16so as to facilitate convenient transportation and subsequent long term storage of the portable barrier. The carrier bag30includes a sleeve portion31having an open end and a closed end. The carrier bag30also includes a flexible handle32such as a strap connected to a side of the sleeve portion31. The sleeve portion31defines a cavity34in which the portable barrier10is located during transportation and storage of the portable barrier10as shown inFIG.15. The carrier bag30further includes a draw string36which is slidably attached to the sleeve portion31and configured to be pulled so as to cinch the sleeve portion closed thereby trapping the portable barrier10within the carrier bag30(as shown inFIG.15) for ready transportation and ultimate storage at a storage location such as an occupant's garage or basement.

Pedestal Assembly

The pedestal assembly12includes a plurality of legs that are movable with respect to each other. The pedestal assembly12is configured to be moved from an expanded configuration as shown inFIGS.1-12to a collapsed configuration as shown inFIGS.13,15, and16. The plurality of legs includes a leg38A and a leg38B (see, e.g.,FIG.1). While the pedestal assembly12includes only two legs in the embodiment(s) shown in the figures of the present disclosure, it should be appreciated that alternative embodiments of the pedestal assembly12may include more than two legs such as three or four legs.

The pedestal assembly12further includes a limiter or flooring40that is connected to the leg38A and the leg38B. In particular, a plurality of fasteners42, such as screws or rivets, is secured to the legs38A,38B so as to connect the flooring40to the legs. The flooring40defines a pocket structure41A in which the leg38A extends, another pocket structure41B in which the leg38B extends. After the legs38A,38B are located in the pocket structures41A,41B during assembly, a fastener42is secured to each leg38A,38B so as to trap the flooring40between the fastener and the respective leg thereby securing the flooring40to the legs38A,38B. The legs38A,38B are made from aluminum. Alternatively, the legs38A,38B may be made from steel. The legs38A,38B may be made from the same materials used to make posts of commercially available portable chairs comprised of flexible material and pivoting posts.

The flooring40is made of a fabric material such as a polyethylene fabric or polyester fabric. As one example, the flooring40is made from a 1000 Denier 130 g/m2 polyethylene sheeting treated for water resistance and flame resistance. The flooring40may be made from the same material that is used to make the flooring of commercially available tents. Alternatively, the flooring40may be made from the same materials used to make the seat portion of commercially available portable chairs comprised of flexible material and pivoting posts. In an alternative embodiment, as shown inFIG.41, the limiter40is a flexible strap40′,40″ (depicted in dashed lines) that is connected between the leg38A and the leg38B. As one alternative, the flexible strap40′ may be connected to the strut portion of leg38A and the strut portion of leg38B. As another alternative, the flexible strap40″ may be connected to the cantilevered portion of leg38A and the cantilevered portion of leg38B. As still another alternative, the limiter may be a portion41of the back screen that is connected between the strut portion of leg38A and the strut portion of leg38B and held in place by fasteners45A,45B as shown inFIG.88. In such an alternative embodiment, no flooring or strap is present.

The legs38A,38B are each pivotably connected to the bolt18A of the junction assembly16(See, e.g.,FIGS.78,79, and90.). During movement of the portable barrier10from its protection mode (seeFIG.1) to its storage mode (seeFIG.13), both legs38A,38B pivot about a line defined by the axis A1(seeFIGS.5and80). It should be appreciated that the flooring40is attached to the legs38A,38B so that the extent of movement or distance between the leg38A and the leg38B is limited by the flooring. More specifically, the leg38A is allowed to move in relation to the leg38B from a collapsed arrangement of the pedestal assembly12shown inFIG.18to an expanded arrangement of the pedestal assembly shown inFIGS.1-12in which the legs38A,38B are separated by a maximum distance shown inFIGS.1-12.

The pedestal assembly12further includes a back screen44that extends between the leg38A and the leg38B. The back screen44is attached to the legs38A,38B by fasteners45such as screws or rivets. The back screen44is made from a fabric material. As one example, the back screen is made from a 70 Denier Nylon Ripstop with Urethane Coat material that is treated for water resistance and flame resistance. It should be appreciated that the back screen44also is attached to the legs38A,38B so that the extent of movement or distance between the leg38A and the leg38B is limited by a portion41of the back screen44that extends between the fastener45A and the fastener45B. (SeeFIGS.6,88, and89.)

The leg38A includes (i) a strut portion38A-S extending from the junction assembly16, and (ii) a cantilevered or extension portion38A-C pivotably coupled to the strut portion38A-S. The cantilevered portion38A-C terminates in an unsupported end38A-E. Similarly, the leg38B includes (i) a strut portion38B-S extending from the junction assembly16, and (ii) a cantilevered or extension portion38B-C pivotably coupled to the strut portion38B-S. The cantilevered portion38B-C terminates in an unsupported end38B-E.

As shown inFIG.5, the leg38A further includes a hinge joint70. The cantilevered portion38A-C is configured to pivot with respect to the strut portion38A-S via the hinge joint70. Similarly, the leg38B further includes a hinge joint72, and the cantilevered portion38B-C is configured to pivot with respect to the strut portion38B-S via the hinge joint72.

Cover Assembly

The cover assembly14includes a plurality of arms50A,50B,50N that are movable with respect to each other. The cover assembly14is configured to be moved from an expanded configuration as shown inFIGS.1-12to a collapsed configuration as shown inFIGS.13,15, and16. As shown inFIG.1-12, the cover assembly14is supported above the pedestal assembly12when both (i) the portable barrier10is positioned in the protection mode, and (ii) the pedestal assembly10is supported on a generally horizontal surface HS (see, e.g.,FIG.1) such as the ground adjacent to a sports field or a sandy surface at a beach.

The plurality of arms includes an arm50A, an arm50B, and an intermediate arm50N interposed therebetween. Note that the portable barrier10also includes a supplemental arm or component51which is not part of the cover assembly14, and will be discussed in more detail hereinafter. As shown inFIG.1, the supplemental component51is positioned adjacent to the leg38B when the portable barrier10is positioned in the protection mode. While the cover assembly14utilizes three arms in the embodiment(s) shown in the figures of the present disclosure, it should be appreciated that alternative embodiments of the cover assembly14may include more or less than three arms such as two, four, or five arms.

The cover assembly12further includes a covering52that includes a cover portion or segment52A and a cover portion or segment52B as shown inFIGS.1and48. The cover segment52A and the cover segment52B are constructed integrally with one another so as to form the covering52as a single sheet as shown inFIG.48. The covering52includes a border member or piping55. The cover segment52A extends between the arm50A and the intermediate arm50N, while the cover segment52B extends between the intermediate arm50N and the arm50B. In addition, the covering52is connected to the arm50A, the intermediate arm50N, and the arm50B. In particular, a plurality of fasteners53, such as screws or rivets, is secured to the arms50to connect the covering52to the arms50A,50B,50N. (See, e.g.,FIGS.4and86-87.) The same manner of securing the flooring40(and the back screen44) to the legs38is used to secure the covering52to the arms50(i.e. with rivets or screws).

It should be appreciated that the covering52also is attached to the arms50A,50B so that the extent of movement or distance between the arm50A and the arm50B is limited by the portion56of the covering52that extends between the fastener53A and the fastener53B. (SeeFIGS.6,86, and87.) In addition, a portion57of the back screen44serves a limiter. Specifically, the back screen is attached to the arms50A,50B so that the extent of movement or distance between the arm50A and the arm50B is limited by the portion57of the back screen44that extends between the fastener45C and the fastener45D. (SeeFIGS.6,86, and87.)

The arms50A,50B,50N are made of a rigid material such as a metal, for example, steel or aluminum. Alternatively, the arms50may be made of a somewhat flexible material such as fiberglass or plastic. The covering52is made from a fabric material. As one example, the covering is made from a 70 Denier Nylon Ripstop with Urethane Coat material that is treated for water resistance and flame resistance. The covering52may be made from the same material that is used to make the walls and ceilings of commercially available tents.

The arms50A,50B and the intermediate arm50N and supplemental component51are each connected to the junction assembly16(see, e.g.,FIG.2). The arm50B is pivotably connected to the bolt18C of the junction assembly16, while the arm50N is pivotably connected to the bolt18B. In contrast, the arm50A is secured in fixed relation to the bolt18A by the use of the set screw20. Particularly, the set screw20extends through the plate17A so as to threadingly engage the arm50A so as to secure it in fixed relation to the plate17A and bolt18A. For at least some duration during movement of the portable barrier10from its protection mode (seeFIG.1) to its storage mode (seeFIG.13), the arm50B pivots about a line defined by the axis A3. Similarly, for at least some duration during movement of the portable barrier10from its protection mode (seeFIG.1) to its storage mode (seeFIG.13), the arm50N pivots about a line defined by the axis A2. Similarly, for at least some duration during movement of the portable barrier10from its protection mode (seeFIG.1) to its storage mode (seeFIG.13), all the arms50A,50B,50N, and the supplemental component51pivot simultaneously about the line defined by the axis A1, as the plates17A,17B,17C pivot about the line defined by the axis A1.

As shown inFIG.81, the arm50A includes (i) a strut portion50A-S extending from the junction assembly16, and (ii) a cantilevered or extension portion50A-C pivotably coupled to the strut portion50A-S. The cantilevered portion50A-C terminates in an unsupported end50A-E. Similarly, the arm50B includes (i) a strut portion50B-S extending from the junction assembly16, and (ii) a cantilevered or extension portion50B-C pivotably coupled to the strut portion50B-S. The cantilevered portion50B-C terminates in an unsupported end50B-E. Further, the arm50N includes (i) a strut portion50N-S extending from the junction assembly16, and (ii) a cantilevered or extension portion50N-C pivotably coupled to the strut portion50N-S. The cantilevered portion50N-C terminates in an unsupported end50N-E.

As shown inFIG.5, the arm50A further includes a hinge joint74, and the cantilevered portion50A-C is configured to pivot with respect to the strut portion50A-S via the hinge joint74. Similarly, the arm50B further includes a hinge joint78, and the cantilevered portion78B-C is configured to pivot with respect to the strut portion78B-S via the hinge joint78. And the arm50N further includes a hinge joint76, and the cantilevered portion50N-C is configured to pivot with respect to the strut portion50N-S via the hinge joint76.

As shown inFIG.5, the leg38A further includes a hinge joint70, and the cantilevered portion38A-C is configured to pivot with respect to the strut portion38A-S via the hinge joint70. Similarly, the leg38B further includes a hinge joint72, and the cantilevered portion38B-C is configured to pivot with respect to the strut portion38B-S via the hinge joint72.

The supplemental component51is connected to the junction assembly16(see, e.g.,FIG.2). The supplemental component51is pivotably connected to the bolt18C of the junction assembly16. For at least some duration during movement of the portable barrier10from its protection mode (seeFIG.1) to its storage mode (seeFIG.13), the supplemental component pivots about a line defined by the axis A3. As shown inFIG.81, the supplemental component51includes (i) a strut portion51S extending from the junction assembly16, and (ii) a handle portion51H fixedly coupled to the strut portion51S by use of a pair of brackets60and fasteners61such as rivets or screws. In particular, the brackets60are secured to the strut portion51S with the fasteners61, and the handle portion51H is secured to the bracket60with the fasteners61thereby securing the handle portion51H in fixed relation to the strut portion51S. (See, e.g.,FIGS.25-29and61-63.)

As shown inFIGS.24-29and61-63, the handle portion51H includes a tube segment T, a hand grip G positioned around the tube segment T, and an end cap95secured on an end portion of the tube segment T. The tube segment T is made of the same material as the arms50A,50B,50N. The end portion of the tube segment T that extends out of the hand grip G defines a projection P having a circumferential recess R as shown inFIG.24. The hand grip G is made from a cellular foam material and possess a plurality of longitudinal ribs as shown inFIG.28. A hook H is secured in fixed relation to the leg38B as shown inFIGS.24-29. In order to lock the portable barrier10in its protection mode, the handle portion51H is manipulated by a user (i.e. the eventual occupant26) from its position shown inFIGS.24-25to its position shown inFIGS.26-29so that the hook H is located in the recess R.

Operation of Portable Barrier

Operation of the portable barrier10will be discussed with reference toFIG.13-29. In particular, a user (e.g. the eventual occupant26) will carry the portable barrier10while it is positioned in its stowed configuration and located in the carrier bag30as shown inFIG.15. Upon arriving at a use destination such as a sandy beach or near the sideline of a soccer field, the user removes the portable barrier10from the carrier bag30and places the portable barrier on a ground surface which is a substantially horizontal surface HS.FIG.16shows the portable barrier10partially removed from the carrier bag30, whileFIG.13shows the portable barrier completely removed the carrier bag, andFIG.14shows the carrier bag without the portable barrier therein. Thereafter, the cantilevered portions38A-C,38B-C,50A-C,50N-C,50B-C are pivoted as a group relative to the strut portions38A-S,38B-S,50A-S,50N-S,50B-S from their position inFIG.13to their position inFIG.17about their respective hinge joints70,72,74,76,78. Then, the user repositions the portable barrier from its position shown inFIG.17to its position shown inFIG.18so that the junction assembly16is positioned above all the strut portions38A-S,38B-S,50A-S,50N-S,50B-S, and the cantilevered portions38A-C,38B-C,50A-C,50N-C,50B-C are positioned juxtaposed to and extend along the horizontal surface HS.

Thereafter, the legs38A and38B are moved away from each other from their relative position shown inFIG.18to their relative position shown inFIG.19. (Note thatFIGS.32and33show the relative position of the legs, the arms, and the supplemental component corresponding to the views ofFIGS.18and19with the flooring, the back screen, and the covering removed for clarity of understanding.) In this position the pedestal assembly12is supported on the ground or horizontal surface HS as shown inFIG.19. Moving of the legs38A,38B in such a manner causes the flooring40to be deployed. When deployed, the flooring40is positioned on the ground or horizontal surface so as to be supported thereby.

Then, the supplemental component51is moved from its position shown inFIG.19to its position shown inFIG.20. (Note thatFIG.34shows the position of the legs, the arms, and the supplemental component corresponding to the view ofFIG.20with the flooring, the back screen, and the covering removed for clarity of understanding.) Moving of the supplemental component51in the manner described above causes the back screen44to be partially deployed. It should be appreciated that a portion58of the back screen44serves a limiter. Specifically, the back screen is attached to the supplemental component51and the arm50B so that the extent of movement or distance between the supplemental component51and the arm50B is limited by the portion58of the back screen44that extends between the fastener45E and the fastener45D. (SeeFIGS.6,86, and87.)

The supplemental component51and the arm50B are then moved from their position inFIG.20to their position inFIG.21. (Note thatFIG.35shows the position of the legs, the arms, and the supplemental component corresponding to the view ofFIG.21with the flooring, the back screen, and the covering removed for clarity of understanding.) Moving of the supplemental component51and arm50B in such a manner causes the back screen44and the covering52to be partially deployed.

Thereafter, the supplemental component51and the arms50B,50N are moved from their position inFIG.21to their position inFIG.22. (Note thatFIG.36shows the position of the legs, the arms, and the supplemental component corresponding to the view ofFIG.22with the flooring, the back screen, and the covering removed for clarity of understanding.) Moving of the supplemental component51and the arms50B,50N in the manner described above causes the back screen44and the covering52to be further partially deployed.

Then, the supplemental component51and the arms50B,50N,50B are moved from their position inFIG.22to their position inFIG.23. (Note thatFIG.37shows the position of the legs, the arms, and the supplemental component corresponding to the view ofFIG.23with the flooring, the back screen, and the covering removed for clarity of understanding.) Moving of the supplemental component51and the arms50B,50N,50B in the manner described above causes the back screen44and the covering52to be fully deployed. When fully deployed, the covering52is supported above the flooring40. It should be appreciated that a portion59of the back screen44also serves a limiter. Specifically, the back screen44is attached to the arm50A (i.e. the strut portion50A-S) and the leg38A (i.e. the strut portion38A-S) so that the extent of movement or distance between the arm50A and the leg38A is limited by a portion59of the back screen44that extends between the fastener45A and the fastener45C. (SeeFIGS.6,86, and87.)

Then, the handle portion51H is moved from its position shown inFIG.24to its position shown inFIG.25so as to align the projection P with a passageway PW defined by the hook H. Thereafter, the projection P is advanced from its position shown inFIG.25through the passageway PW of the hook H to its position shown inFIG.26(see alsoFIGS.27-29) so as to secure the portable barrier10in its protection state.

In response to the portable barrier10being deployed in such a manner, the occupant space28is created. The chair27is then advanced into the occupant space28and situated so as to be supported on the flooring40as shown inFIG.11. The occupant26then enters the occupant space28and sits in the chair27as shown inFIG.12so as to be protected from exposure to sun, wind, and/or rain by the portable barrier10. Alternatively, after the occupant space28is created by deployment of the portable barrier10in the manner described above, a chair is not positioned in the occupant space, but rather an occupant enters the occupant space28and sits down, or alternatively, lays down directly on the flooring40whereby the occupant is protected from exposure to sun, wind, and/or rain by the portable barrier10.

Operation of Portable Barrier (with Flooring, Back Screen, and Covering Removed)

The operation of the portable barrier10will again be described, but with reference toFIGS.30-45. In these figures, the flooring40, back screen44, and cover52are removed for clarity of understanding to show a framework of the portable barrier10that includes the legs38A,38B, the arms50A,50N,50B, the supplemental component51, and the junction assembly16. Note that there are some differences between the legs38A,38B, the arms50A,50N,50B, the supplemental component51, and the junction assembly16of the embodiment ofFIGS.1-12and the embodiment ofFIGS.30-45; however, the two embodiments are similar in the operation. One difference is the plates17A,17B,17C are made of an aluminum material in the embodiment ofFIGS.1-12, while the plates17A,17B,17C are made of a plastic material such as a high density polyethylene material in the embodiment ofFIGS.30-45. Another difference is the handle portion51H of the supplemental component51possesses a different configuration in the embodiment ofFIGS.1-12in comparison to the embodiment ofFIGS.30-45. Particularly, the tube segment T of the handle portion51H is situated more rearwardly as shown inFIGS.39-40so as to provide a user standing behind the portable barrier10with ready access to the handle portion51H.

Also note that in order to aid stability of the skeletal structure of the portable barrier10ofFIGS.30-45(with the flooring40, back screen44, and cover52removed), segments of monofilament line ML (e.g. 50 lbs. fishing line) is used to retain the legs38A,38B and the arms50A,50N,50B, and the supplemental component51in their positions relative to each other. In other words, the segments of monofilament line function as the distance or movement limiters in the embodiment ofFIGS.30-45.

Turning now to the operation of the portable barrier10ofFIGS.30-45, a user (e.g. the eventual occupant26) will carry the portable barrier10while it is positioned in its stowed configuration and located in the carrier bag30. Upon arriving at a use destination such as a sandy beach or near the sideline of a soccer field, the user removes the portable barrier10from the carrier bag30and places the portable barrier on a ground surface which is a substantially horizontal surface HS.FIG.30shows the portable barrier10completely removed the carrier bag and lying on the horizontal surface HS. Thereafter, the cantilevered portions38A-C,38B-C,50A-C,50N-C,50B-C are pivoted as a group relative to the strut portions38A-S,38B-S,50A-S,50N-S,50B-S from their position inFIG.30to their position inFIG.31about their respective hinge joints70,72,74,76,78.

Then, the user repositions the portable barrier from its position shown inFIG.31to its position shown inFIG.32so that the junction assembly16is positioned above all the strut portions38A-S,38B-S,50A-S,50N-S,50B-S, and the cantilevered portions38A-C,38B-C,50A-C,50N-C,50B-C are positioned juxtaposed to and extend along the horizontal surface HS.

Thereafter, the legs38A and38B are moved away from each other from their relative position shown inFIG.32to their relative position shown inFIG.33. (Note thatFIGS.18and19show the relative position of the legs38A,38B corresponding to the views ofFIGS.32and33.) In this position the pedestal assembly12is supported on the ground or horizontal surface HS as shown inFIG.32. Moving of the laterals legs38A,38B in such a manner causes the flooring (not shown) to be deployed. When deployed, the flooring (not shown) is positioned on the ground or horizontal surface so as to be supported thereby.

Then, the supplemental component51is moved from its position shown inFIG.33to its position shown inFIG.34. (Note thatFIG.34shows the position of the legs, arms, and supplemental component corresponding to the view ofFIG.20with the flooring, the back screen, and the covering removed for clarity of understanding.) Moving of the supplemental component51in the manner described above causes the back screen (not shown) to be partially deployed. The supplemental component51and the arm50B are then moved from their position inFIG.34to their position inFIG.35. (Note thatFIG.35shows the position of the legs, arms, and supplemental component corresponding to the view ofFIG.21with the flooring, the back screen, and the covering removed for clarity of understanding.) Moving of the supplemental component51and arm50B in such a manner causes the back screen (not shown) and the covering (not shown) to be partially deployed.

Thereafter, the supplemental component51and the arms50B,50N are moved from their position inFIG.35to their position inFIG.36. (Note thatFIG.36shows the position of the legs, the arms, and the supplemental component corresponding to the view ofFIG.22with the flooring, the back screen, and the covering removed for clarity of understanding.) Moving of the supplemental component51and the arms50B,50N in the manner described above causes the back screen (not shown) and the covering (not shown) to be further partially deployed.

Then, the supplemental component51and the arms50B,50N,50B are moved from their position inFIG.36to their position inFIG.37. (Note thatFIG.37shows the position of the legs, the arms, and the supplemental component corresponding to the view ofFIG.23with the flooring, the back screen, and the covering removed for clarity of understanding.) Moving of the supplemental component51and the arms50B,50N,50B in the manner described above causes the back screen (not shown) and the covering (not shown) to be essentially fully deployed. When fully deployed, the covering (not shown) is supported above the flooring (not shown) and the ground or horizontal surface HS.

Then, the handle portion51H is moved from its position shown inFIG.38to its position shown inFIG.40so as to locate the projection P within the passageway PW defined by the hook H thereby securing the portable barrier10in its protection state.FIGS.41-45show various views of the portable barrier in its protection mode of operation. Note that the following views of the embodiment ofFIGS.41-45show the position of the legs, the arms, and the supplemental component corresponding to the following views of the embodiment ofFIGS.1-12with the flooring, the back screen, and the covering removed for clarity of understanding:FIG.41-FIG.1;FIG.42-FIG.9;FIG.43-FIG.6;FIG.44-FIG.4; andFIG.45-FIG.2.

Hinge Joints

The portable barriers include five hinge joints70,72,74,76,78. Each hinge joint possesses essentially the same configuration so only one hinge joint will be described in detail in this section. In particular,FIG.70shows the hinge joint74in detail. (See alsoFIG.69showing the hinge joint76in detail.) The hinge joint74includes two brackets88that are spaced apart from each other as shown inFIG.70. The lower part of the bracket88ais fastened with rivets90to the strut portion50A-S, while the upper part of the bracket88bis fastened to the cantilevered portion50A-C as shown inFIG.70. With the arm50A so assembled, the cantilevered portion50A-C is configured to pivot in relation to the strut portion50A-S about a pivot axis PA defined the rivet90. (See, e.g.,FIG.70.) In contrast, the brackets88are secured in fixed relation to the strut portion50A-S by the use of two rivets90.

Components and Subassemblies

FIGS.46-47show views of the cover assembly44. The back screen44is generally pentagonal shaped and defines an opening80and a slot81. The back screen44further includes a border member or piping82.FIG.48shows the covering52. The covering52is generally rectangular shaped. The cover52also includes a border member or piping55. The covering defines a first cover segment or portion52A and a second cover segment or portion52B. The cover segment52A and the cover segment52B are formed integrally with one another as a single sheet as shown inFIG.48.

The flooring40is shown inFIG.49. The flooring40defines a pocket structure41A which is configured to receive the leg38A therein, and another pocket structure41B which is configured to receive the leg38A. The pocket structure41A includes an opening end41A-O and a closed end41A-C. Similarly, the pocket structure41B includes an opening end41B-O and a closed end41B-C.FIG.50shows the strut portions38A-S,38B-S,50A-S,50N-S,50B-S,51S, as well as the cantilevered portions38A-C,38B-C,50A-C,50N-C,50B-C. The strut portions are ⅝″ diameter aluminum tubes (e.g. aluminum tubes) that extend for a distance of 30 inches, while the cantilevered portions are ⅝″ diameter tubes (e.g. aluminum tubes) that extend for a distance of 33.5 inches. Each of the strut portions and the cantilevered portions has a number of fastener openings85defined therein which are configured to receive rivets therethrough.FIG.51shows the right side of the strut portions and the cantilevered portions in relation toFIG.50, whileFIG.52shows the left side of the strut portions and the cantilevered portions in relation toFIG.50.

FIGS.53-55show the brackets88that are utilized in the hinge joints70,72,74,76,78. The brackets88include three (3) fastener holes that extend therethrough as shown inFIGS.53-55. All of the brackets88used in the hinge joints70,72,74,76,78are essentially the same, so only one hinge joint is shown inFIGS.53-55for efficiency of description.FIGS.53-55also shows the brackets60that are used secure the handle51H to the strut portion51S of the supplemental component51. The brackets60include four (4) fastener holes that extend therethrough as shown inFIGS.53-55.

FIGS.53and56show the hook H used to secure the handle51H in fixed relation to the leg38B in the embodiment ofFIGS.30-45. The hook H includes a flange F that defines a fastener hole FH therein that is configured to receive a rivet therethrough.FIGS.53-54further show the fasteners42,45,53,61,90used in the portable barrier10. In particular, the fasteners42,45,53,61,90are rivets such as aluminum rivets. Washers92are used in association with each of the fasteners42,45,53,61,90in a conventional manner as shown in the figures of this disclosure.

FIGS.53-54further show the bolts18A,18B,18C, and the nuts19A,19B,19C, and the set screw20of the junction assembly16. (See alsoFIG.90.) In addition,FIGS.53-54show a plug94that is utilized by the portable barrier10to reduce sharp edges thereof. More specifically, the plug is inserted into each end of the tubes of each of the cantilevered portions38A-C,38B-C,50A-C,50N-C, and50B-C as shown inFIGS.62,69,85,88, and89. Furthermore,FIGS.53-54show an end cap95that is also utilized by the portable barrier10to reduce sharp edges thereof. In particular, the end cap95is secured around each end of the tubes of each of the strut portions38A-S,38B-S,50A-SC,50N-S, and50B-S that are opposite the junction assembly as shown inFIGS.62,69,82,84,87-89. A groove96is defined in the top portion of each cap95as shown inFIG.91(see alsoFIGS.69-70). The groove96assists in preventing lateral movement of the cantilevered portions38A-C,38B-C,50A-C,50N-C, and50B-C respectively in relation to the strut portions38A-S,38B-S,50A-S,50N-S, and50B-S when the portable barrier10is positioned in its deployed or use position (i.e. its protection mode). Another end cap95is utilized in the handle portion51H. Specifically, the end cap95is secured around the end of the tube segment T of the handle portion51H as shown inFIG.61.

Storage Compartment

Turning now toFIGS.57-60, the portable barrier10includes a storage compartment or pouch97that is fastened to the legs38A and38B. The pouch97includes a bottom end that is closed and a top end that is configured to be selectively opened and closed with a zipper98.FIGS.57-58show the pouch97in the closed state.FIG.59shows the pouch in a partially opened state. AndFIG.60shows the pouch97is a fully opened state. The pouch97is configured to store items such as a set of keys, a purse, a wallet, and other miscellaneous items while the occupant27is located in the occupant space26. The pouch97is also configured to store items such as accessories of the portable barrier10therein that may be sold or supplied in conjunction with the portable barrier10. It should be appreciated that the pouch97is positioned in an expanded or use state when the portable barrier is position in its protection mode (as shown inFIGS.1-12and57-60). Further, the pouch97is positioned in a collapsed or storage state when the portable barrier is position in its storage mode (as shown inFIGS.13,15, and16).

Auxiliary Support Mechanisms

In order to further stabilize the portable barrier10on the ground or horizontal surface HS, the portable barrier further includes an auxiliary support mechanism100. The auxiliary support mechanism100is shown in detail inFIGS.92-94. The auxiliary support mechanism100includes a support rod101and a coupler102. The support rod101is made of wood, plastic, or metal such as aluminum. The coupler102has a blind recess103defined therein for receiving an end portion of the rod101in a friction fit manner. The coupler102is configured as a generally rectangular block of plastic that defines the blind recess103. The coupler102is affixed to the back screen44at the location shown inFIGS.10,64, and86by an adhesive. Alternatively, the coupler102may be sewn to the back screen44to affix it thereto. As an alternative, the coupler102is configured as a generally rectangular block of leather or fabric material that is configured with a blind recess or other pocket to receive the end portion of the support rod therein.

When not in use, the support rod101can be stowed in a pocket105defined in the flooring40as shown inFIG.92. To this end, the flooring40further includes a pocket structure106that defines the pocket105. The pocket structure106is similar in construction and configuration to the pocket structures41A,41B.

Another feature of the portable barrier10that further stabilizes the portable barrier on the ground or horizontal surface HS is shown inFIGS.8,82and95-96. In particular, an auxiliary support mechanism110includes a pair of support rods112A,112B respectively telescopingly received within the cantilevered portions38A-C,38B-C. In particular, the auxiliary support mechanism110includes support rods112A,112B that are respectively slidably received in the within the cantilevered portions38A-C,38B-C as shown inFIGS.95-96.FIGS.8and95show the support rods positioned in their stowed position, whileFIGS.82and96show the support rods112A,112B positioned in their use or stabilizing position.

Further Discussion ofFIGS.2and45

As discussed above, the portable barrier10is configured to move between a protection mode (seeFIGS.2and45) and a storage mode (seeFIGS.13and30). When the portable barrier is positioned in the protection mode, (i) a first line L1is defined between the unsupported end38A-E and the unsupported end38B-E, (ii) a second line L2is defined between the unsupported end50A-E and the unsupported end50B-E, (iii) a third line L3is defined between the unsupported end38A-E and the unsupported end50A-E, and (iv) a fourth line L4is defined between the unsupported end38B-E and the unsupported end50B-E. The first line L1, the second line L2, the third line L3, and the fourth line L4define a closed path CP. One of the first leg38A, the second leg38B, the first arm50A, and the second arm50B, and the supplemental component51pivots about a pivot axis during movement of the portable barrier between the protection mode and the storage mode. Indeed, for at least some duration of the movement between the portable barrier10between its protection mode and storage mode, (i) each of the leg38A and the leg38B pivots about the axis A1, (ii) the arm50B pivots about the axis A3, (iii) the intermediate arm50N pivots about the axis A2, and (iv) the supplemental component51pivots about the axis A3. Further, it should be appreciated that for at least some duration during movement of the portable barrier10from its protection mode (seeFIG.1) to its storage mode (seeFIG.13), all the arms50A,50B,50N, and the supplemental component51pivot simultaneously about the line defined by the axis A1, as the plates17A,17B,17C pivot about the line defined by the axis A1. Note that (i) the axis A1defines a line that intersects the space S enclosed by the closed path CP without intersecting the closed path CP, (ii) the axis A2defines a line that intersects the space S enclosed by the closed path CP without intersecting the closed path CP, and (iii) the axis A3defines a line that also intersects the space S enclosed by the closed path CP without intersecting the closed path CP as shown inFIGS.2and45.

Further Discussion ofFIGS.4,42,44, and83

Turning now toFIGS.4,42,44, and83, it should be appreciated that (i) the cantilevered portion38A-C is configured to pivot with respect to the strut portion38A-S at least X degrees, (ii) the cantilevered portion38B-C is configured to pivot with respect to the strut portion38B-S at least X degrees, (iii) the cantilevered portion50A-C is configured to pivot with respect to the strut portion50A-S at least X degrees, (iv) the cantilevered portion50B-C is configured to pivot with respect to the strut portion50B-S at least X degrees, and (v), the cantilevered portion50N-C is configured to pivot with respect to the strut portion50N-S at least X degrees, and (vi) X>200, and preferable X>260. Further note that most preferably (i) the cantilevered portion38A-C is configured to pivot 272 degrees with respect to the strut portion strut portion38A-S, (ii) the cantilevered portion38B-C is configured to pivot 272 degrees with respect to the strut portion38B-S, (iii) the cantilevered portion50A-C is configured to pivot 268 degrees with respect to the strut portion50A-S, (iv) the cantilevered portion50B-C is configured to pivot 268 degrees with respect to the strut portion50B-S, and (v) the cantilevered portion50N-C is configured to pivot 268 degrees with respect to the strut portion50N-S.

Thus, when the portable barrier is positioned in the protection mode as shown inFIGS.4,42,44, and48, the (i) the cantilevered portion38A-C defines an angle of 88 degrees with respect to the strut portion strut portion38A-S, (ii) the cantilevered portion38B-C defines an angle Θ2of 88 degrees with respect to the strut portion38B-S, (iii) the cantilevered portion50A-C defines an angle Θ3of 92 degrees with respect to the strut portion50A-S, (iv) the cantilevered portion50B-C defines an angle Θ4of 92 degrees with respect to the strut portion50B-S; and (v) the cantilevered portion50N-C defines an angle Θ5of 92 degrees with respect to the strut portion50N-S.

This feature of the portable barrier10further assists in stabilizing the portable barrier on the horizontal surface HS. Indeed, this feature causes the center of gravity of the portable barrier10to be moved closer to the middle of the flooring40when the portable barrier is viewed in a side elevational view.

Further Discussion ofFIGS.6,7,65,66,81,88,89

Turning now toFIGS.6,7,65,66,81,88,89, it should be appreciated that when the portable barrier is positioned in the protection mode, (i) the back screen44is entirely spaced apart from the cover52so that an air vent120is formed between the back screen44and the cover52, and (ii) the back screen44is also entirely spaced apart from the flooring40so that another air vent122is formed between the back screen44and the flooring40.

This feature of the portable barrier10further assists in stabilizing the portable barrier on the horizontal surface HS. Significantly, this feature allows air flow during a windy day to be directed through the air vents120,122so as to inhibit tipping of the portable barrier during windy days.

Additional Set of Concepts

Concept 1. A portable barrier, comprising:a junction assembly;a pedestal assembly including a plurality of legs that are movable with respect to each other, said plurality of legs includes a first leg and a second leg;a cover assembly including (i) a plurality of arms that are movable with respect to each other, said plurality of arms includes a first arm and a second arm, and (ii) a covering connected to said first arm and said second arm;a supplemental component movable with respect to said second arm; anda back screen including (i) a first back screen portion extending between said first arm and said first leg, said first back screen portion being configured to limit movement of said first arm and said first leg away from each other, and (ii) a second back screen portion extending between said second arm and said supplemental component, said second back screen portion being configured to limit movement of said second arm and said supplemental component away from each other,wherein said portable barrier is configured to move between a protection mode and a storage mode, andwherein, when said portable barrier is positioned in said protection mode, said back screen is entirely spaced apart from said cover so that a first air vent is formed between said back screen and said cover.

Concept 2. The portable barrier of Concept 1, further comprising a flooring connected to said first leg and said second leg, wherein said back screen is entirely spaced apart from said flooring so that a second air vent is formed between said back screen and said flooring.

Concept 3. The portable barrier of Concept 1, wherein:said first leg includes (i) a first strut portion extending from said junction assembly, and (ii) a first cantilevered portion pivotably coupled to said first strut portion, said first cantilevered portion terminates in a first unsupported end,said second leg includes (i) a second strut portion extending from said junction assembly, and (ii) a second cantilevered portion pivotably coupled to said second strut portion, said second cantilevered portion terminates in a second unsupported end,said first arm includes (i) a third strut portion extending from said junction assembly, and (ii) a third cantilevered portion pivotably coupled to said third strut portion, said third cantilevered portion terminates in a third unsupported end,said second arm includes (i) a fourth strut portion extending from said junction assembly, and (ii) a fourth cantilevered portion pivotably coupled to said fourth strut portion, said fourth cantilevered portion terminates in a fourth unsupported end, andsaid first back screen portion extends between said third strut portion and said first strut portion and is configured to limit movement of said third strut portion and said first strut portion away from each other.

Concept 4. The portable barrier of Concept 2, wherein:said first leg includes (i) a first strut portion extending from said junction assembly, and (ii) a first cantilevered portion pivotably coupled to said first strut portion, said first cantilevered portion terminates in a first unsupported end,said second leg includes (i) a second strut portion extending from said junction assembly, and (ii) a second cantilevered portion pivotably coupled to said second strut portion, said second cantilevered portion terminates in a second unsupported end,said first arm includes (i) a third strut portion extending from said junction assembly, and (ii) a third cantilevered portion pivotably coupled to said third strut portion, said third cantilevered portion terminates in a third unsupported end,said second arm includes (i) a fourth strut portion extending from said junction assembly, and (ii) a fourth cantilevered portion pivotably coupled to said fourth strut portion, said fourth cantilevered portion terminates in a fourth unsupported end,said first back screen portion extends between said third strut portion and said first strut portion and is configured and arranged to limit movement of said third strut portion and said first strut portion away from each other, andsaid second back screen portion extends between said fourth strut portion and said second strut portion and is configured and arranged to limit movement of said fourth strut portion and said second strut portion away from each other.

Concept 5. The portable barrier of Concept 3, wherein:wherein, when said portable barrier is positioned in said protection mode, (i) a first line is defined between said first unsupported end and said second unsupported end, (ii) a second line is defined between said third unsupported end and said fourth unsupported end, (iii) a third line is defined between said first unsupported end and said third unsupported end, and (iv) a fourth line is defined between said second unsupported end and said fourth unsupported end,wherein said first line, said second line, said third line, and said fourth line define a closed path,wherein one of said first leg, said second leg, said first arm, said second arm, and said supplemental component pivots about a first pivot axis during movement of said portable barrier between said protection mode and said storage mode, andwherein said first pivot axis defines a fifth line that intersects a space enclosed by said closed path without intersecting said closed path.

Concept 6. The portable barrier of Concept 4, wherein:wherein, when said portable barrier is positioned in said protection mode, (i) a first line is defined between said first unsupported end and said second unsupported end, (ii) a second line is defined between said third unsupported end and said fourth unsupported end, (iii) a third line is defined between said first unsupported end and said third unsupported end, and (iv) a fourth line is defined between said second unsupported end and said fourth unsupported end,wherein said first line, said second line, said third line, and said fourth line define a closed path,wherein one of said first leg, said second leg, said first arm, said second arm, and said supplemental component pivots about a first pivot axis during movement of said portable barrier between said protection mode and said storage mode, andwherein said first pivot axis defines a fifth line that intersects a space enclosed by said closed path without intersecting said closed path.

Concept 7. The portable barrier of Concept 6, wherein:at least one of said first leg and said second leg pivots about a second pivot axis during movement of said portable barrier between said protection mode and said storage mode, andsaid second pivot axis defines a sixth line that intersects said space enclosed by said closed path without intersecting said closed path.

Concept 8. The portable barrier of Concept 7, wherein said fifth line is offset from said sixth line.

Concept 9. The portable barrier of Concept 8, wherein:said cover assembly further includes an intermediate arm, andsaid covering includes (i) a first cover portion extending between said first arm and said intermediate arm, and (ii) a second cover portion extending between said intermediate arm and said second arm.

Concept 10. The portable barrier of Concept 9, wherein an occupant space is defined between said flooring and said covering when said portable barrier is positioned in said protection mode.

Concept 11. The portable barrier of Concept 10, wherein:said flooring includes a fabric flooring,said covering includes a fabric covering, andsaid occupant space is located between said fabric flooring and said fabric covering when said portable barrier is positioned in said protection mode.

There is a plurality of advantages arising from the various features of each of the embodiment(s) of the portable barrier and associated methods of use described herein. It will be noted that alternative embodiments of the portable barrier and its method of use may not include all of the features described yet still benefit from at least some of the advantages of such features. Those of ordinary skill in the art may readily devise their own implementations of the portable barrier and its method of use that incorporate one or more of the features of the portable barrier and its method of use and fall within the spirit of the inventions described herein.