Portable shelter assemblies

Claim 2

In a portable shelter framework formed of elongated struts and which is capable of being expanded into arched three dimensional form and collapsed into bundled form, the combination of a plurality of series of end-interconnected module each defining a separate arch portion of the framework .[.said portions .]. .Iadd.at least one arch portion .Iaddend.extending in .Iadd.a different, .[.directions.]. .Iadd.non-parallel and non-coplanar direction .Iaddend.relative to .[.each other,.]. to .Iadd.a second arch portion, said modules, when expanded, comprising sides and ends defined by crossed, pivotally connected pairs of said elongated struts.Iaddend..

Claim 3

In a portable shelter framework as defined in claim 1 wherein two of said arch portions extend in opposite directions relative to each other.

Claim 4

In a portable shelter framework as defined in claim 2 wherein .[.a third.]. .Iadd.said second .Iaddend.arch portion extends in a direction perpendicular to the two of said arch portions.

Claim 5

In a portable shelter framework as defined in claim 3 wherein a fourth arch portion extends in a direction opposite to said .[.third.]. .Iadd.second .Iaddend.arch portion.

Claim 6

.[.In a.]. .Iadd.A .Iaddend.portable shelter framework .[.comprised of.]. .Iadd.comprising: (.Iadd.a) .Iaddend.a plurality of expanded, three dimensional modules distributed throughout the framework, each module including crossed pairs of elongated struts and pivot means pivotally joining said struts for allowing said modules to be manipulated between expanded, three dimensional form and strut-bundled form, .Iadd.(b) a first and second arch portion of the framework, each said arch portion comprised of a .[.the.]. combination of a plurality of series end-interconnected .Iadd.expanded .Iaddend.modules .Iadd.defining at least a first and second end of said arch portion .[.each defining an arch portion of the framework.]., the modules of each arch portion being bounded on opposite sides of the arch .Iadd.portion .Iaddend.by crossed, pivotally connected pairs of struts.Iadd., .Iaddend..[.and.]. .Iadd.(c) .Iaddend.each .Iadd.said .Iaddend.arch portion including at least one transition module which.Iadd., .Iaddend.when expanded, defines .[.rectilinear.]. .Iadd.corners for polygonal .Iaddend.inner and outer faces of the .[.arch portion.]. .Iadd.transition module .Iaddend.in which the .Iadd.polygonal .Iaddend.inner face is of lesser area than that of said .[.rectilinear.]. .Iadd.polygonal .Iaddend.outer face.Iadd.,.Iaddend. .Iadd.(d) the arch portions connected to each other at their first ends and extending in different, non-parallel and non-coplanar directions such that the second ends of the arch portions can be moved outwardly in different, non-parallel, non-coplanar directions to collapse the framework.

Claim 7

.[.In a.]. .Iadd.A .Iaddend.portable shelter framework .[.comprised of.]. .Iadd.comprising: (.Iadd.a) .Iaddend.a plurality of expanded, three dimensional modules distributed throughout the framework, each module including crossed pairs of elongated struts and pivot means pivotally joining said struts for allowing said modules to be manipulated between expanded, three dimensional form and strut-bundled form, .Iadd.(b) a first and second arch portion of the framework, each said arch portion comprised of a .[.the.]. combination of a plurality of series end-interconnected .Iadd.expanded .Iaddend.modules .Iadd.defining at least a first and second end of said arch portion .[.each defining an arch portion of the framework.]., the modules of each arch portion being bounded on opposite sides of the arch .Iadd.portion .Iaddend.by crossed, pivotally connected pairs of struts.Iadd., .Iaddend..[.and.]. .Iadd.(c) .Iaddend.each .Iadd.said .Iaddend.arch portion including at least one transition module which.Iadd., .Iaddend.when expanded, defines .[.rectilinear.]. .Iadd.corners for polygonal .Iaddend.inner and outer faces of the .[.arch portion.]. .Iadd.transition module .Iaddend.in which the .Iadd.polygonal .Iaddend.inner face is of lesser area than that of said .[.rectilinear.]. .Iadd.polygonal .Iaddend.outer face.Iadd.,.Iaddend. .Iadd.(d) the arch portions connected to each other at their first ends and extending in different, non-parallel and non-coplanar directions such that the second ends of the arch portions can be moved outwardly in different, non-parallel, non-coplanar directions to collapse the framework.

Claim 8

In a portable shelter framework as defined in claim 5 wherein .[.each.]. .Iadd.at least one .Iaddend.arch portion also includes a .Iadd.substantially .Iaddend.vertically disposed end module forming a support for the framework.

Claim 9

.[.In a.]. .Iadd.A .Iaddend.portable shelter framework comprising: .Iadd.(a) elongated struts arranged into modules such that said framework is capable of being expanded into three dimensional form and collapsed into bundled form in which said struts are disposed in closely spaced generally parallel relation, (b) a series of said modules end-interconnected to define, when expanded at least one arch portion of the framework, (c) said series of said modules comprising, (1) a first module which, when expanded, defines inner and outer faces of the first module which are of the same area, (2) a second module, which, when expanded, defines inner and outer faces of second module which are of areas of different from each other. (d) .Iaddend. said .[.one module of said.]. .Iadd.series of said modules further comprising a module .Iaddend.being .Iadd.substantially .Iaddend.vertically disposed .[.to present an end thereof disposed in a definite supporting position relative to the expand framework, and.]..Iadd., (e) a first one of said arch portions in a non-parallel non-coplanar relationship with a second one of said arch portions, (f) .Iaddend.said modules including .Iadd.pairs of .Iaddend.crossed, pivotally connected struts and hub means pivotally joining ends of said pairs of struts for allowing collapse .[.and expansion.]. of said framework by extending said .[.one module.]. .Iadd.vertically disposed module .Iaddend.of said series of .Iadd.said .Iaddend.modules outwardly beyond .[.said supporting position thereof.]. .Iadd.its substantially vertical disposition.Iaddend..

Claim 10

.[.In a.]. .Iadd.A .Iaddend.portable shelter framework comprising: .Iadd.(a) elongated struts arranged into modules such that said framework is capable of being expanded into three dimensional form and collapsed into bundled form in which said struts are disposed in closely spaced generally parallel relation, (b) a series of said modules end-interconnected to define, when expanded at least one arch portion of the framework, (c) said series of said modules comprising, (1) a first module which, when expanded, defines inner and outer faces of the first module which are of the same area, (2) a second module, which, when expanded, defines inner and outer faces of second module which are of areas of different from each other. (d) .Iaddend. said .[.one module of said.]. .Iadd.series of said modules further comprising a module .Iaddend.being .Iadd.substantially .Iaddend.vertically disposed .[.to present an end thereof disposed in a definite supporting position relative to the expand framework, and.]..Iadd., (e) a first one of said arch portions in a non-parallel non-coplanar relationship with a second one of said arch portions, (f) .Iaddend.said modules including .Iadd.pairs of .Iaddend.crossed, pivotally connected struts and hub means pivotally joining ends of said pairs of struts for allowing collapse .[.and expansion.]. of said framework by extending said .[.one module.]. .Iadd.vertically disposed module .Iaddend.of said series of .Iadd.said .Iaddend.modules outwardly beyond .[.said supporting position thereof.]. .Iadd.its substantially vertical disposition.Iaddend..

Claim 11

In a portable shelter framework formed of elongated struts and which is capable of being expanded into three dimensional form and collapsed into bundled form in which struts are disposed in closely spaced, generally parallel relation, the combination of a series of end-interconnected modules defining an arch portion of the framework, the modules comprising said series of modules including at least one first module which when expanded defines inner and outer faces of the .[.arch portion.]. .Iadd.first module .Iaddend.which are of the same rectangular area and at least one second module which when expanded defines inner and outer rectangular faces of the .[.arch.]. .Iadd.second module .Iaddend.which are of areas different from each other, said first module defining inner and outer faces of said .[.arch portion.]. first module which are square.

Claim 12

In a portable shelter framework formed of elongated struts and which is capable of being expanded into three dimensional form and collapsed into bundled form in which struts are disposed in closely spaced, generally parallel relation, the combination of a series of end-interconnected modules defining an arch portion of the framework, the modules comprising said series of modules including at least one first module which when expanded defines inner and outer faces of the .[.arch portion.]. .Iadd.first module .Iaddend.which are of the same rectangular area and at least one second module which when expanded defines inner and outer rectangular faces of the .[.arch.]. .Iadd.second module .Iaddend.which are of areas different from each other, said first module defining inner and outer faces of said .[.arch portion.]. first module which are square.

Claim 13

In a portable shelter framework as defined in claim 8 wherein said first and second modules are circumscribed by crossed, pivotally connected struts of equal lengths.

Claim 14

In a portable shelter framework as defined in claim 9 wherein said first and second modules also .[.includes.]. .Iadd.include .Iaddend.asymmetrically crossed, pivoted further pairs of struts extending inwardly from the hub means of each module, the inner ends of said further pairs of struts being joined by further hub means and serving to render each module self-locking in the expanded condition thereof.

Claim 15

In a portable shelter framework formed of elongated struts and which is capable of being expanded into three dimensional form and collapsed into bundled form in which struts are disposed in closely spaced, generally parallel relation, the combination of a series of end-interconnected modules defining an arch portion of the framework, the modules comprising said series of modules including at least one first module which when expanded defines inner and outer faces of the .[.arch portion.]. .Iadd.first module .Iaddend.which are of the same rectangular area and at least one second module which, when expanded, defines inner and outer rectangular faces of the .[.arch.]. .Iadd.second module .Iaddend.which are areas different from each other, said first and second modules are circumscribed by pairs of crossed, pivotally connected struts.

Claim 16

In a portable shelter framework formed of elongated struts and which is capable of being expanded into three dimensional form and collapsed into bundled form in which struts are disposed in closely spaced, generally parallel relation, the combination of a series of end-interconnected modules defining an arch portion of the framework, the modules comprising said series of modules including at least one first module which when expanded defines inner and outer faces of the .[.arch portion.]. .Iadd.first module .Iaddend.which are of the same rectangular area and at least one second module which, when expanded, defines inner and outer rectangular faces of the .[.arch.]. .Iadd.second module .Iaddend.which are areas different from each other, said first and second modules are circumscribed by pairs of crossed, pivotally connected struts.

Claim 17

In a portable shelter framework as defined in claim 11 wherein the struts of said pairs are of the same length.

Claim 18

A framework for a portable shelter, said framework comprising.Iadd.: (a) .Iaddend.a plurality of pivotally interconnected elongate struts capable of relative movement between an expanded condition defining a three dimensional framework and a collapsed condition defining bundled struts, .Iadd.(b) .Iaddend..[.said struts forming.]. a plurality of strings of modules defining .[.an.]. .Iadd.at least a first and second .Iaddend.arch portion of the .Iadd.framework.Iaddend., (c) each arch portion .Iadd.defining a first and second end, (d) said second ends of said first and second arch portions each .Iaddend.having a foot adapted to rest upon a support surface upon which said three dimensional framework may stand, .Iadd.(e) .Iaddend..[.said feet being.]..Iadd.said arch portions connected at said first ends and .Iaddend.disposed in different.Iadd., non-parallel, non-coplanar directions .[.positions in peripherally spaced relation to each other.]. to define a .[.supporting.]. base periphery of the three dimensional framework, .Iadd.(f) .Iaddend.said feet capable of being extended beyond said base periphery to collapse the three dimensional framework, (g) .[.each.]. said .[.module.]. .Iadd.modules .Iaddend.being of three dimensional form when the framework is expanded and .[.each module including .]. .Iadd.said modules comprising at least; (1) .Iaddend.opposite .Iadd.module .Iaddend.ends each formed by a pair of crossed, pivotally connected struts.Iadd., (2) .Iaddend..[.and.]. opposite .Iadd.module .Iaddend.sides each formed by a pair of crossed, pivotally connected struts, and .Iadd.(3) .Iaddend.hub means pivotally joining adjacent .[.ends of each.]. pairs of struts.

Claim 19

A framework for a portable shelter, said framework comprising.Iadd.: (a) .Iaddend.a plurality of pivotally interconnected elongate struts capable of relative movement between an expanded condition defining a three dimensional framework and a collapsed condition defining bundled struts, .Iadd.(b) .Iaddend..[.said struts forming.]. a plurality of strings of modules defining .[.an.]. .Iadd.at least a first and second .Iaddend.arch portion of the .Iadd.framework.Iaddend., (c) each arch portion .Iadd.defining a first and second end, (d) said second ends of said first and second arch portions each .Iaddend.having a foot adapted to rest upon a support surface upon which said three dimensional framework may stand, .Iadd.(e) .Iaddend..[.said feet being.]..Iadd.said arch portions connected at said first ends and .Iaddend.disposed in different.Iadd., non-parallel, non-coplanar directions .[.positions in peripherally spaced relation to each other.]. to define a .[.supporting.]. base periphery of the three dimensional framework, .Iadd.(f) .Iaddend.said feet capable of being extended beyond said base periphery to collapse the three dimensional framework, (g) .[.each.]. said .[.module.]. .Iadd.modules .Iaddend.being of three dimensional form when the framework is expanded and .[.each module including .]. .Iadd.said modules comprising at least; (1) .Iaddend.opposite .Iadd.module .Iaddend.ends each formed by a pair of crossed, pivotally connected struts.Iadd., (2) .Iaddend..[.and.]. opposite .Iadd.module .Iaddend.sides each formed by a pair of crossed, pivotally connected struts, and .Iadd.(3) .Iaddend.hub means pivotally joining adjacent .[.ends of each.]. pairs of struts.

Claim 20

A framework for a portable shelter as defined in claim 13 wherein modules of a first set of said modules are bounded by opposite sides and opposite ends in which the crossed, pivoted pairs of struts defining such sides and ends are symmetrically crossed and pivoted and modules of a second set of said modules are bounded by opposite sides and opposite ends in which the opposite sides of the modules of said second set are defined by pairs of struts which are asymmetrically crossed and pivoted and in which the opposite ends of the modules of said second set are defined by pairs of struts which are symmetrically crossed and pivoted, each arch portion being formed of a mixture of modules of said first and second sets thereof.

Claim 21

A framework for a portable shelter as defined in claim 14 wherein all of said struts are of the same length.

Claim 22

A framework for a portable shelter as defined in claim 15 wherein said framework when expanded includes a .[.stop.]. .Iadd.top .Iaddend.central region to which said strings of modules are joined, said top central region being bonded by symmetrically crossed and pivoted pairs of said struts.

Claim 23

A framework for a portable shelter as defined in claim 16 wherein said top central region is bounded on all sides by arch portions.

Claim 24

A framework for a portable shelter as defined in claim 17 wherein said top central region is of square shape.

Claim 25

A framework for a portable shelter as defined in claim 14 wherein said framework when expanded includes a top central region to which said strings of modules are joined, said top central region being bounded by symmetrically crossed and pivoted pairs of said struts.

Claim 26

A framework for a portable shelter as defined in claim 19 wherein said top central region is bounded on all sides by arch portions.

Claim 27

A framework for a portable shelter as defined in claim 20 wherein said top central region is of square shape.

Claim 28

A framework for a portable shelter as defined in claim 13 wherein said framework when expanded includes a top central region to which said strings of modules are joined, said top central region being bounded by symmetrically crossed and pivoted pairs of said struts.

Claim 29

A framework for a portable shelter as defined in claim 22 wherein said top central region is bounded on all sides by arch portions.

Claim 30

A framework for a portable shelter as defined in claim 23 wherein said top central region is of square shape.

Claim 31

An expandable/collapsible framework for a portable shelter, said framework comprising a plurality of pairs of crossed, pivotally connected elongate struts and hub means pivotally connecting said pairs of struts in orthogonally patterned end-to-end relation to define a plurality of modules each expandable to three dimensional form and collapsible into a bundle of generally parallel struts, each module being bounded by opposite parallel sides and opposite ends in which a pair of said crossed, pivotally connected struts defines each of said opposite ends and each of said opposite sides, said framework when expanded having a base adapted to rest upon a supporting surface, an elevated top portion and a plurality of independently movable arch portions joined only to said top portion and extending archwise downwardly therefrom to define a plurality of independently movable archs terminating in supporting leg modules disposed in supporting leg positions in peripherally spaced relation around said base of the expanded framework, each arch portion comprising at least a string of said modules sharing common ends and corresponding common hub means and said strings being disposed such that the respective opposite sides of the modules of each string are disposed in planes which intersect the planes in which the opposite sides of the modules of the respective other strings lie whereby the framework is moveable between its collapsed and expanded conditions by moving said supporting leg modules outwardly beyond their supporting leg positions and then back to their supporting leg positions, and means for holding said framework in expanded condition.

Claim 32

An expandable/collapsible framework for a portable shelter, said framework comprising a plurality of pairs of crossed, pivotally connected elongate struts and hub means pivotally connecting said pairs of struts in orthogonally patterned end-to-end relation to define a plurality of modules each expandable to three dimensional form and collapsible into a bundle of generally parallel struts, each module being bounded by opposite parallel sides and opposite ends in which a pair of said crossed, pivotally connected struts defines each of said opposite ends and each of said opposite sides, said framework when expanded having a base adapted to rest upon a supporting surface, an elevated top portion and a plurality of independently movable arch portions joined only to said top portion and extending archwise downwardly therefrom to define a plurality of independently movable archs terminating in supporting leg modules disposed in supporting leg positions in peripherally spaced relation around said base of the expanded framework, each arch portion comprising at least a string of said modules sharing common ends and corresponding common hub means and said strings being disposed such that the respective opposite sides of the modules of each string are disposed in planes which intersect the planes in which the opposite sides of the modules of the respective other strings lie whereby the framework is moveable between its collapsed and expanded conditions by moving said supporting leg modules outwardly beyond their supporting leg positions and then back to their supporting leg positions, and means for holding said framework in expanded condition.

Claim 33

An expandable/collapsible framework for a portable shelter as defined in claim 25 wherein modules of a first set of said modules are bounded by opposite sides and opposite ends in which the crossed, pivoted pairs of struts defining such sides and ends are symmetrically crossed and pivoted and modules of a second set of said modules are bounded by opposite sides and opposite ends in which the opposite sides of the modules of said second set are defined by pairs of struts which are asymmetrically crossed and pivoted and which the opposite ends of the modules of said second are defined by pairs of struts which are symmetrically crossed and pivoted, each arch portion being formed of a mixture of modules of said first and second sets thereof.

Claim 34

An expandable/collapsible framework for a portable shelter as defined in claim 26 wherein all of said struts are of the same length.

Claim 35

In a collapsible/expandable framework comprised of a plurality of joined modules and having a base and a .[.rectangular.]. top region in the expanded condition, the combination of .[.module means.]. .Iadd.modules .Iaddend.defining a plurality of separations from said base to corners of said top region.Iadd., said separations defining an angle of less than 180° and greater than 0°.

Claim 36

In a collapsible/expandable framework comprised of a plurality of joined modules and having a base and a .[.rectangular.]. top region in the expanded condition, the combination of .[.module means.]. .Iadd.modules .Iaddend.defining a plurality of separations from said base to corners of said top region.Iadd., said separations defining an angle of less than 180° and greater than 0°.

Claim 37

In a collapsible/expandable framework as defined in claim 28 including flexible material joined to said framework in covering relation thereto.

Claim 38

In a collapsible/expandable framework as defined in claim 28 wherein said modules are of rectangular form.

Claim 39

In a collapsible/expandable framework as defined in claim 30 wherein said modules are circumscribed by scissored pairs of struts.

Claim 40

In a collapsible/expandable framework as defined in claim 31 wherein all struts of said scissored pairs of struts are of the same length.

Claim 41

In a collapsible/expandable framework as defined in claim 32 wherein certain of said modules when expanded present inner and outer faces which are square and other of said modules when expanded present inner and outer faces which are of different areas.

Claim 42

In a collapsible/expandable framework as defined in claim 28 wherein said .[.module means.]. .Iadd.modules .Iaddend.comprise arch portions of the expanded framework, at least one of said arch portions being defined by a first sequence of said modules arching downwardly from said top region adjacent a corner thereof and a further sequence of said modules joined along a vertically extending edge of said first sequence of modules in alignment with a corner of said top region.

Claim 43

In a collapsible/expandable framework as defined in claim 34 wherein another of said arch portions is defined by a third sequence of said modules arching downwardly from said top region adjacent said corner thereof, and means separably joining said third sequence to said further sequence in side-by-side relation.

Claim 44

In a collapsible/expandable framework as defined in claim 28 wherein at least one arch portion is located in bridging relation to one corner of the rectangular top region to define a triangular module at such corner, and including means for separably joining an apex of said triangular module to an adjacent module.

Claim 45

An expandable/collapsible framework for a portable shelter, said framework comprising a plurality of modules each expandable to three dimensional form and collapsible into a bundle; each module comprising pairs of crossed, elongate struts, pivot means for pivotally connecting the struts of each crossed pair thereof in scissors-like fashion, and hub means pivotally connecting the opposite ends of each strut of each pair thereof to corresponding ends of individual struts of adjacent pairs thereof for allowing each module to be manipulated between a collapsed condition in which all of the struts of the module are in bundled, generally parallel relation and an expanded condition in which said pairs of struts are in patterned end-to-end relation; said framework when expanded having an elevated, horizontally disposed top portion and a plurality of supporting leg portions which are joined to said top portion, extend downwardly therefrom and are spaced from each other; said elevated, horizontally disposed top portion comprising a first plurality of said modules of the framework which share common struts and corresponding common hub means; each supporting leg portion comprising at least a vertically extending string of a further plurality of said modules of the framework which share common ends and corresponding common hub means.

Claim 46

An expandable/collapsible framework for a portable shelter, said framework comprising a plurality of modules each expandable to three dimensional form and collapsible into a bundle; each module comprising pairs of crossed, elongate struts, pivot means for pivotally connecting the struts of each crossed pair thereof in scissors-like fashion, and hub means pivotally connecting the opposite ends of each strut of each pair thereof to corresponding ends of individual struts of adjacent pairs thereof for allowing each module to be manipulated between a collapsed condition in which all of the struts of the module are in bundled, generally parallel relation and an expanded condition in which said pairs of struts are in patterned end-to-end relation; said framework when expanded having an elevated, horizontally disposed top portion and a plurality of supporting leg portions which are joined to said top portion, extend downwardly therefrom and are spaced from each other; said elevated, horizontally disposed top portion comprising a first plurality of said modules of the framework which share common struts and corresponding common hub means; each supporting leg portion comprising at least a vertically extending string of a further plurality of said modules of the framework which share common ends and corresponding common hub means.

Claim 47

An expandable/collapsible framework as defined in claim 37 wherein said elevated, horizontally disposed top portion includes a continuous ring of said first plurality of modules which circumscribes the lower edge of the top portion of the framework and to which said supporting leg portions are joined.

Claim 48

An expandable/collapsible framework for a portable shelter, said framework comprising a plurality of modules each expandable to three dimensional form and collapsible into a bundle; each module comprising four pairs of crossed, elongate struts in which all of such struts are of the same length, pivot means for pivotally connecting the struts of each crossed pair thereof in scissors-like fashion, and hub means pivotally connecting the opposite ends of each struts of each pair thereof to corresponding ends of individual struts of adjacent pairs thereof for allowing each module to be manipulated between collapsed condition in which all of the struts of the module are in bundled, generally parallel relation and expanded condition in which said four pairs of struts are in orthogonally patterned end-to-end relation with each module being bounded by opposite parallel sides and opposite ends in each of which sides and ends a pair of said crossed, pivotally connected struts defines a corresponding one of said opposite ends and of said opposite sides, a first type of said modules having those struts which bound its opposite sides and its opposite ends pivotally scissored about their mid points and a second type of said modules having those struts which bound its opposite ends pivotally scissored about their mid points and the pairs of struts which bound its opposite sides pivotally scissored in offset relation to their mid points; said framework when expanded having an elevated, horizontally disposed top portion and a plurality of supporting leg portions joined to said top portion and extending downwardly therefrom; said elevated, horizontally disposed top portion .[.comprising .]. .Iadd.bounded by .Iaddend.a plurality of modules of .[.both the first and.]. the second .[.types.]. .Iadd.type .Iaddend.thereof; and each supporting leg portion comprising at least a vertically extending string of modules of both the first and second types thereof with the upper end of that module at the upper end of the string .[.sharing commons struts and corresponding common hub means with one module of.]. .Iadd.bounding .Iaddend.said top portion.

Claim 49

An expandable/collapsible framework for a portable shelter, said framework comprising a plurality of modules each expandable to three dimensional form and collapsible into a bundle; each module comprising four pairs of crossed, elongate struts in which all of such struts are of the same length, pivot means for pivotally connecting the struts of each crossed pair thereof in scissors-like fashion, and hub means pivotally connecting the opposite ends of each struts of each pair thereof to corresponding ends of individual struts of adjacent pairs thereof for allowing each module to be manipulated between collapsed condition in which all of the struts of the module are in bundled, generally parallel relation and expanded condition in which said four pairs of struts are in orthogonally patterned end-to-end relation with each module being bounded by opposite parallel sides and opposite ends in each of which sides and ends a pair of said crossed, pivotally connected struts defines a corresponding one of said opposite ends and of said opposite sides, a first type of said modules having those struts which bound its opposite sides and its opposite ends pivotally scissored about their mid points and a second type of said modules having those struts which bound its opposite ends pivotally scissored about their mid points and the pairs of struts which bound its opposite sides pivotally scissored in offset relation to their mid points; said framework when expanded having an elevated, horizontally disposed top portion and a plurality of supporting leg portions joined to said top portion and extending downwardly therefrom; said elevated, horizontally disposed top portion .[.comprising .]. .Iadd.bounded by .Iaddend.a plurality of modules of .[.both the first and.]. the second .[.types.]. .Iadd.type .Iaddend.thereof; and each supporting leg portion comprising at least a vertically extending string of modules of both the first and second types thereof with the upper end of that module at the upper end of the string .[.sharing commons struts and corresponding common hub means with one module of.]. .Iadd.bounding .Iaddend.said top portion.

Claim 50

An expandable/collapsible framework as defined in claim 39 wherein said elevated, horizontally disposed top portion includes a generally rectangular ring of modules circumscribing the lower edge of the top portion of the framework and to which said supporting leg portions are joined.

Claim 51

An expandable/collapsible framework as defined in claim 40 wherein said generally rectangular ring comprises four sets of modules joined in linear fashion and modules of said second type at the corners of the ring, said supporting leg portions being connected to the ring adjacent the corners thereof. .Iadd.

Claim 52

A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 1 wherein said arch portions connect to define a top portion of the portable shelter framework. .Iaddend. .Iadd.43. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 1 wherein at least one of said modules is self-locking. .Iaddend. .Iadd.44. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 1 wherein at least one of said modules remains in an expanded three dimensional configuration by virtue of the asymmetrical geometry of that module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.45. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 42 wherein said top portion is square. .Iaddend. .Iadd.46. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 4 wherein at least one of said modules is self-locking. .Iaddend. .Iadd.47. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 4 wherein at least one of said modules remains in an expanded three dimensional configuration by virtue of the asymmetrical geometry of that module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.48. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 5 wherein at least one of the modules is self-locking. .Iaddend. .Iadd.49. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 5 wherein at least one of the modules remains in an expanded three dimensional configuration by virtue of the asymmetrical geometry of that module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.50. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 5 wherein said transition module, when expanded, comprises at least: (a) first and second sides, said sides defining parallel planes, and (b) first and second ends, said ends defining planes that intersect at a substantially perpendicular angle. .Iaddend. .Iadd.51. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 5 wherein said transition module is directly connected to at least one other transition module at one corner of its polygonal outer face and one corner of its polygonal inner face. .Iaddend. .Iadd.52. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 7 wherein at least one of said modules is self-locking. .Iaddend. .Iadd.53. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 7 wherein at least one of said modules remains in an expanded three dimensional configuration by virtue of the asymmetrical geometry of that module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.54. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 8 wherein at least one of said modules is self-locking. .Iaddend. .Iadd.55. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 8 wherein at least one of said modules remains in an expanded three dimensional configuration by virtue of the asymmetrical geometry of that module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.56. A portable framework as defined in claim 11 in which a first one of said modules comprises at least a first and second pair of said crossed, pivotally connected struts on opposite sides of said first one of said modules, said first and second pairs of crossed, pivotally connected struts of said first one of said modules defining planes that intersect at a substantially perpendicular angle. .Iaddend. .Iadd.57. A portable framework as defined in claim 11 wherein at least one of said modules is self-locking. .Iaddend. .Iadd.58. A portable framework as defined in claim 11 wherein at least one of said modules remains in an expanded three dimensional configuration by virtue of the asymmetrical geometry of that module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.59. A portable framework as defined in claim 56 wherein at least one of said modules is self-locking. .Iaddend. .Iadd.60. A portable framework as defined in claim 56 wherein at least one of said modules remains in an expanded three dimensional configuration by virtue of the asymmetrical geometry of that module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.61. A portable framework as defined in claim 14 wherein said first and second sets of modules also include asymmetrically crossed, pivotally connected further pairs of struts extending inwardly from said hub means of each module, the inner ends of said further pairs of struts being pivotally joined by further hub means and serving to render each module self-locking in the expanded condition thereof. .Iaddend. .Iadd.62. An expandable/collapsible framework for a portable shelter, said framework comprising: (a) a plurality of pairs of crossed, pivotally connected elongate struts and hub means pivotally connecting said pairs of struts in orthogonally patterned end-to-end relation to define a plurality of modules, (b) each of said modules expandable to three dimensional form and collapsible into a bundle of generally parallel struts, each module being bounded by opposite parallel sides and opposite ends, (c) said framework, when expanded, defining (1) a base, (2) an elevated top portion, (d) a plurality of arch portions comprised of said modules, joined only to said top portion, and extending archwise downwardly therefrom terminating in peripherally spaced relation to define said base of the expanded framework. .Iaddend. .Iadd.63. An expandable/collapsible framework for a portable shelter as defined in claim 25 wherein at least one of said modules is self-locking. .Iaddend. .Iadd.64. A collapsible/expandable framework as defined in claim 28 wherein at least one of said modules is self-locking. .Iaddend. .Iadd.65. A collapsible/expandable framework as defined in claim 28 wherein at least one of said modules remains in an expanded three dimensional configuration by virtue of the asymmetrical geometry of that module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.66. An expandable/collapsible framework as defined in claim 37 wherein at least one of said modules is self-locking. .Iaddend. .Iadd.67. An expandable/collapsible framework as defined in claim 37 wherein at least one of said modules remains in an expanded three dimensional configuration by virtue of the asymmetrical geometry of that module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.68. A portable shelter framework comprising: (a) A first type of module comprising at least, (1) opposing first and second sides and first and second ends of said first type of module, said first and second sides and first and second ends of said first type of module defined by crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts of said first type of module, (2) said crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts defining said first and second sides of said first type of module being symmetrically crossed, (3) said crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts defining said first and second ends of said first type of module being symmetrically crossed, (b) a second type of module comprising as least, (1) opposing first and second sides and first and second ends of said second type of module, said first and second sides and first and second ends of said second type of module defined by crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts of said second type of module, (2) said crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts defining said first and second sides of said second type of module being asymmetrically crossed, (3) said crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts defining said first and second ends of said second type of module being symmetrically crossed, (c) A string of said first type of module and said second type of module end-interconnected and arranged such that a first one of said second type of module is end-interconnected between a first one and a second one of said first type of module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.69. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 68 wherein at least one of said first type of module is self-locking. .Iaddend. .Iadd.70. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 68 wherein at least one of said second type of module is self-locking. .Iaddend. .Iadd.71. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 68 wherein at least one of said first type of module remains in an expanded three dimensional configuration by virtue of the asymmetrical geometry of that module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.72. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 68 wherein at least one of said second type of module remains in an expanded three dimensional configuration by virtue of the asymmetrical geometry of that. .Iaddend. .Iadd.73. A portable shelter framework comprising: (a) a first type of module comprising at least, (1) a first face of said first type of module, (2) a second face of said first type of module, (3) opposing sides and ends of said first type of module defined by crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts of said first type of module, (4) said first face of said first type of module having an area substantially equal to the area of said second face of said second type of module, (b) a second type of module comprising at least, (1) a first face of said second type of module, (2) a second face of said second type of module, (3) opposing sides and ends of said second type of module defined by crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts of said second type of module, (4) said first face of said second type of module having an area greater than the area of said second face of said second type of module, (c) a string of said first type of module and said second type of module end-interconnected and arranged such that a first one of said second type of module is end-interconnected between a first one and a second one of said first type of module, (d) the first face of said first one of said first type of module defining a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the first face of said second one of said first type of module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.74. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 73 wherein at least one of said first type of module is self-locking. .Iaddend. .Iadd.75. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 73 wherein at least one of said second type of module is self-locking. .Iaddend.

Claim 53

.Iadd. . A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 73 wherein at least one of said first type of module remains in an expanded three dimensional configuration by virtue of the asymmetrical geometry of that module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.77. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 73 wherein at least one of said second type of module remains in an expanded three dimensional configuration by virtue of the asymmetrical geometry of that module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.78. A portable shelter framework as defined in claim 68 wherein the plane defined by the first end of said first one of said second type of module is perpendicular to the plane defined by the second end of the first one of said second type of module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.79. A portable shelter framework comprising: (a ) A first type of module comprising at least, (1) opposing first and second sides and first and second ends of said first type of module, said first and second sides and first and second ends of said first type of module defined by crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts of said first type of module, (2) said crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts defined said first and second sides of said first type of module being symmetrically crossed, (3) said crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts defining said first and second ends of said first type of module being symmetrically crossed, (b) a second type of module comprising at least, (1) opposing first and second sides and first and second ends of said second type of module, said first and second sides and first and second ends of said second type of module defined by crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts of said second type of module, (2) said crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts defining said first and second sides of said second type of module being asymmetrically crossed, (3) said crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts defining said first and second ends of said second type of module being symmetrically crossed, (c) A string of said first type of module and said second type of module end-interconnected and arranged such that a first one of said first type of module is end-interconnected, between a first one and a second one of

Claim 54

said second type of module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.80. A portable shelter framework comprising: (a ) a first type of module comprising at least, (1) a first face of said first type of module, (2) a second face of said first type of module, (3) opposing sides and ends of said first type of module defined by crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts of said first type of module, (4) said first face of said first type of module having an area substantially equal to the area of said second face of said second type of module, (b) a second type of module comprising at least, (1) a first face of said second type of module, (2) a second face of said second type of module, (3) opposing sides and ends of said second type of module defined by crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts of said second type of module, (4) said first face of said second type of module having an area greater than the area of said second face of said second type of module, (c) a string of said first type of module and said second type of module end-interconnected and arranged such that a first one of said first type of module is end-interconnected between a first one and a second one of said second type of module, (d) the first face of said first one of said second type of module defining a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the first face of said second one of said second type of module. .Iaddend.

Claim 55

said second type of module. .Iaddend. .Iadd.80. A portable shelter framework comprising: (a ) a first type of module comprising at least, (1) a first face of said first type of module, (2) a second face of said first type of module, (3) opposing sides and ends of said first type of module defined by crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts of said first type of module, (4) said first face of said first type of module having an area substantially equal to the area of said second face of said second type of module, (b) a second type of module comprising at least, (1) a first face of said second type of module, (2) a second face of said second type of module, (3) opposing sides and ends of said second type of module defined by crossed pairs of pivotally interconnected struts of said second type of module, (4) said first face of said second type of module having an area greater than the area of said second face of said second type of module, (c) a string of said first type of module and said second type of module end-interconnected and arranged such that a first one of said first type of module is end-interconnected between a first one and a second one of said second type of module, (d) the first face of said first one of said second type of module defining a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the first face of said second one of said second type of module. .Iaddend.