Segmented articulated pole structure

#1. Field of the Invention

#The invention relates generally to structural members of the type typically used in flexible structures, such as tents, shelters and the like, and more particularly to resilient pole members. The invention further relates to articulated structural members which may find use as a frame in support applications, such as for mounting, supporting or suspending articles in a desired shape.

#2. Description of Related Art

#FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of one preferred embodiment of the segmented articulated pole member structure of the invention;

#FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of another preferred embodiment of the articulated pole member structure of the invention;

#FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of a flexible shelter structure employing articulated pole member structures of the invention;

#FIG. 1 illustrates one preferred embodiment of the articulated pole member structure of the invention. In this preferred embodiment, the pole member structure 10 comprises a plurality of interconnected pole segments 15. Each pole segment 15 is preferably connected to its adjacent pole segments 15 by a pivoting connection 20, thus permitting adjacent pole segments 15 to form an angle 25 about the point of pivot connection. It will be appreciated that the value of the angle formed between adjacent pole segments 15 will vary depending on the degree to which the pole member structure 10 as a whole is bent or otherwise shaped or tensioned. However, it is preferred and envisioned that the angle 25 between adjacent pole segments 15 will remain relatively stable for any given bending position of the pole member structure 10.

#The pivoting connection 20 may be made in numerous suitable ways which will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art. The type of pivoting connection selected will depend upon the materials and stiffness of the pole segments 15, the range of angles 25 desired, the desired strength of the connection, and other factors that will be apparent to persons skilled in the art. In an embodiment employing standard tent pole materials and dimensions for the pole segments 15, for example, hollow aluminum, graphite or other known tent pole materials, the pole segments 15 will tend to be relatively light and resilient. In such cases, the pivoting connection can be made as simply as by wrapping a layer of cord or similar material around the adjacent pole segments at the pivot point. Alternatively, the pole segments may be provided with aligned holes and a pin, rivet or ring may be used. In embodiments employing heavier and less resilient or even rigid materials for the pole segments, for example in large shelter or support structures, a heavier connection such as a bolt extending through a hole or sleeve and secured with a nut may be appropriate. Numerous other connection alternatives are also suitable provided they are able to create a pivoting connection between adjacent pole segments.

#Preferably the pole segments 15 are arranged relative to one another so that there is some amount of overlap between the ends of each adjacent pole segment. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 1, each pole segment 15 has ends 15a and 15b. Each pole member segment 15 is arranged so that its ends 15a and/or 15b slightly overlap the ends 15a and/or 15b of its adjacent pole segments. The amount of overlap is dependent upon a number of design factors including the stiffness of the pole segments 15, the type of pivoting connection and tensioning means employed, and the degree to which the overlapping portion is desired to be used as a tensioning lever, as described hereinafter. It should be noted, however, that not all pole member structures embodying the invention need necessarily have overlapping pole segments.