Patent ID: 6851136

Claim:
A portable structure operable for transforming from a collapsed configuration into an expanded configuration and thence back into said collapsed configuration, comprising: a) a first part consisting of a pair of superimposed frames each formed from a flexible coilable material with a foldable cloth-like material between them such as to form a wall when the frames are separated by the extent of the foldable cloth-like material; b) a second part consisting of a frame formed from a flexible coilable material, said frame having, when in an expanded in-use configuration, a shape of a figure-of-eight thereby defining first and second loops and a cross-over said cross-over forming an apex of said second part and the loops extending downwardly therefrom, first and second side panels being formed from a foldable cloth-like material, said side panels spanning said first and second loops respectively; and c) means for removably connecting the first and second parts such that the first part forms a receptacle for containment of articles or beings, with the second part forming a cover for the receptacle; d) both first and second parts being individually foldable and collapsible, each into several overlying loops and, when so collapsed, being expandable by spreading said loops apart and allowing said frames to spring into said expanded configuration.