US20180242787A1

US20180242787A1 - Framed cover

Info

Publication number: US20180242787A1
Application number: US15/964,028
Authority: US
Inventors: Elie Atalla
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Divergent Devices LLC
Priority date: 2017-02-28
Filing date: 2018-04-26
Publication date: 2018-08-30
Also published as: US20180242785A1; US20200046167A1; US11974696B2

Abstract

A framed cover is disclosed. A rigid tubular frame that is built into the cover's opening makes it possible to find the opening, lift the cover evenly, place the cover over the item, rotate the cover to the proper position and drop the cover in an even manner and without snagging. In addition, the tubular frame can be made to fold so that the cover can be stowed away for storage in a controlled manner, and by folding the tubular frame on a larger size cover it makes it easier for the user to control the covers weight because its center of gravity is held closer to the user's body until it is properly positioned and opened on top of the item to be covered.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to covers for enclosing items or objects, in particular, to collapsible framed covers for the same.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Placing and removing flexible covers from large items is difficult and time-consuming. Typically, cloth or plastic covers will have an opening and must be dropped or lowered onto an item such that the flexible cover's opening properly accepts the item to be covered. In addition, if the flexible cover is fitted to a particular shape, such as an outdoor grill, table or chair, it becomes more difficult because the cover must be lowered onto the item and rotated such that the fitted spaces under the cover are matched to the intended parts of the item.
It is difficult to find the opening and proper position for a fully collapsed, flexible cover. Further, as a flexible material is pulled down from one side it may become too tight or out of position on the other side, so a back and forth, iterative process is required to fully pull down a cover. Other covers are completely flexible and must be opened partially, then pulled down over the item, then re-positioned and pulled down again and so on until all parts are under the cover as intended. The user also risks damaging the cover when force is applied to the cover during installation.
The covers in the prior art also problematic because they are not capable of being secured after installation. For example, excessive wind could displace the cover partially or completely.
The reason these devices do not work well is because there is no way to support the material manually. It is by nature flexible and will always fall where it is dropped.
Prior art cover also pose problems when being removed. During removal the cover can get caught on any of the parts of the covered item that protrude or are in a fitted section of the cover. Thus, the cover is susceptible to damage and unwanted wear and tear.
Also, covers in the prior art cannot be folded into a compact configuration and are often difficult to neatly store for the same reason. Often times, the prior art covers are simply removed and placed near the item or object while in use, taking up much needed space and creating an eye sore.
Therefore, a need exists for a flexible cover that can be easily installed on items and objects, while being capable of being conveniently removed and stored.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This summary is intended to disclose the present invention, a framed cover. The embodiment and description are used to illustrate the invention and its utility and are not intended to limit the invention or its use. The following presents a simplified summary of the primary embodiment of the invention to provide a basic understanding of the invention. Additional concepts that can be added or varied with the primary embodiment are also disclosed. Issues such as form-factor are addressed through the use of multiple examples.
The present invention solves the problems of the prior art while providing additional advantages. The present invention is an improvement on what currently exists.
In general, the present invention, a framed cover, provides a flexible cover with a framed opening, which allows a user to easily identify the opening (because it never closes, except partially, if folded) and drop the framed cover in proper rotational position to match fitted sections with their intended parts on the item. A rigid tubular frame that is built into the flexible cover's opening makes it possible to find the opening, lift the framed cover evenly, place the framed cover over the item, rotate the framed cover to the proper position and drop the framed cover in an even manner and without snagging. The tubular frame enables an even control and positioning of the framed cover above and around the item as it is being lowered thereon. Further, the weight of the tubular frame will help in holding the framed cover down and in proper position.
During removal, the tubular frame embedded in the framed cover allows a user to lift all sides of the framed cover simultaneously thereby preventing snagging. Then the folding joint, if included, allows user to concentrate the mass of the framed cover in a central position in front of their body to make it easier to support.
In addition, the tubular frame is foldable so that the framed cover can be stowed away for storage in a controlled manner. By folding the tubular frame on a larger size framed cover, it makes it easier for the user to control the weight of the because its center of gravity is held closer to the user's body until it is properly positioned and opened on top of the item to be covered. If the tubular frame folds it may also be more easily stored when not in use.
The flexible cover is made of a suitable material for the item to be used. For example, a waterproof canvas for outdoor applications may be appropriate. The material is cut into the right shape, or shapes, and stitched together into a flexible cover in typical fashion. However, at or near the opening, a tubular frame would be inserted around the full perimeter of the opening. This may be made of metal or plastic tubing and should be matched with the use and conditions it will be exposed to. For example, waterproof materials could be used for outdoor use. Lighter material could be used for a smaller flexible cover, and stronger material could be used for larger, heavier flexible covers.
As it assists a human in manipulating a flexible and unpredictable object, likewise it could be used to help a machine or robot manipulate and control a framed cover.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is illustrated with 24 drawings on 12 sheets. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the present invention, a framed cover, along with an item it is intended to cover. FIG. 2 is a side view of the framed cover positioned over the item it is intended to cover. FIG. 3 is a front view of the frame cover, folded, juxtaposed to the item it is intended to cover. FIG. 4 is an isolation view of a frame joint of the frame cover.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a framed cover, in an installed state on an alternative intended item to be cover. FIG. 6 is a partially exploded front view of an embodiment of the framed cover.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a framed cover of the present invention, in situ. FIG. 8 is an additional perspective view of an embodiment of the framed cover, in situ.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a tubular frame for the framed cover. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a flexible cover of the framed cover.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a framed cover, in situ. FIG. 12 is an isolation perspective view of a hinge used on an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is an isolation perspective view of an alternative hinge configuration used on an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a front-view sequence drawing showing an embodiment of the framed cover being folded.

FIG. 15 is a perspective sequence drawing showing an embodiment of the framed cover being put in situ. FIG. 16 is an isolation perspective view of an engagement member of an embodiment of the framed cover in a retracted position. FIG. 17 is an isolation perspective view of the engagement member of an embodiment of the framed cover. FIG. 18 is an isolation perspective view of an embodiment of the frame cover in an engaged state.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an alternative form-factor of the framed cover in an installed state. FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an alternative form-factor of the framed cover in an installed state. FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an alternative form-factor of the framed cover in an installed state.

FIG. 22 is an isolation perspective view of wheels and joint portion of the framed cover. FIG. 23 is an isolation perspective view of an embodiment of a tubular frame member of the present invention with internal parts superimposed with external parts. FIG. 24 is an isolation perspective view of an embodiment of a tubular frame member of the present invention with internal parts of the tubular frame superimposed with external parts.

To facilitate an understanding of the invention, identical reference numbers have been used, when appropriate, to designate the same or similar elements that are common to the figures. Further, the features shown in the figures are not necessarily properly dimensioned nor drawn to scale but are shown for illustrative purposes only.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following descriptions are not meant to limit the invention, but rather to add to the summary of invention, and illustrate the present invention, a framed cover. The present invention is illustrated with a variety of drawings showing the primary embodiment of the present invention, with examples presented of the various form-factors that the present invention can take.
Although this invention will be described in its exemplary forms with a certain degree of particularity, it is understood that the present disclosure has been made only by way of example and numerous changes in the details of the construction and arrangement of parts may be employed without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The article “a” is intended to include one or more items, and where only one item is intended the term “one” or similar language is used. Additionally, to assist in the description of the present invention, words such as top, bottom, side, upper, lower, front, rear, inner, outer, right and left are used to describe the accompanying figures. The terminology includes the words above specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.
Referring to the figures, the present invention provides an easy to use framed cover for convenient installation, removal and storage. The framed cover protects an item or object from dust, rain, snow, etc. and can also be used to conceal the item or object. The primary embodiment of a framed cover of the present invention is described in detail below, with examples of the various form-factors that the framed cover can take.
In general, the framed cover of the present invention includes a flexible cover operably coupled to a frame. The flexible cover is comprised of a flexible material, such as canvas, plastic or cloth, which is cut and assembled into the shape of the item or object to be covered. The flexible cover can be also be constructed of materials that are lightweight, mildew-resistant, UV-resistant and durable. The flexible cover may have fitted areas that are intended to account for and help secure it around various parts of the item to be covered.
The flexible cover is operably coupled to a frame, which can be stitched into or otherwise attached to or near the perimeter of the flexible cover's opening. The tubular frame extends around all sides of the opening. The tubular frame is constructed of a rigid but lightweight material capable of withstanding outdoor elements. For example, the tubular frame could be high density, Schedule 80 PVC piping. Other durable plastics could be used as well. The tubular frame could also be constructed with lightweight, rust-resistant metals such as aluminum. The tubular frame is constructed from members. The members of the tubular frame may be hollow or solid. The members can be cylindrical or rectangular, with a circle or square cross-section, respectively.
Referring to FIGS. 1-4, a framed cover 100 of the present invention is shown. The framed cover 100 has a form-factor, including a shape and size, that allows it to cover an outdoor grill 1. The framed cover 100 includes a flexible cover 102 extending downwardly to a free end 104, forming an opening (not shown) within a lower perimeter. In this example, the flexible cover 102 is fitted for an outdoor grill 1 with protruding shelves on both sides. Thus, a fitted area is provided where less material is required in the upper portion of the grill 1 and more fabric is required to fit around the protruding shelves. The flexible cover 102 has a continuous exterior surface 133. Looking briefly at FIG. 11, the flexible cover 410 is shown as transparent. The flexible cover 410 has a continuous interior surface 134. Likewise, the flexible cover 102 shown in FIGS. 1-4 has a continuous interior surface that is not visible in the drawings.
Continuing with FIGS. 1-4, the framed cover 100 includes a tubular frame 106 having a pair of opposing longitudinal members 108 coupled with a pair of transverse members 110 at respective ends of the longitudinal members 108, thus forming a substantially rectangular configuration. The tubular frame 106 can be hollow or solid. The tubular frame 106 is made from generally cylindrical members 108, 110, meaning that the members have a circular cross-section. The tubular frame 106 could take on other shapes depending on the item or object the framed cover 100 is intended to cover. The frame 106 encloses a rectangular area 132. The longitudinal members 108 and transverse members 110 are held together with joint members 112. The longitudinal members 108, transverse members 110, and joint members have a definable perimeter 108, 110, 112.
The free ends 104 create an opening 104 that accommodates the item to be covered 1. The dimensions such as width 137 and length 136 of the item to be covered 1 are determined, in order to ascertain maximum planar dimensions of the item 1 over which the opening defined by the free ends 104 must fit. Auxiliary dimensions 610, 611, 612, 613, 614 can be measured to account for protrusions. The free ends 104 the flexible cover 102 are double-stitched along the longitudinal members 108 of the tubular frame 106 to form a secure seam. The flexible cover 102 can be constructed of water-proof, water-resistant, and/or dust-resistant material. Other securing methods can be used. For example, the free ends 104 the flexible cover 102 can be glued along the longitudinal members 108 of the tubular frame 106 to form a secure seam. Additionally, the flexible cover 102 and/or the tubular frame 106 can be provided with fasteners, such as a hook-and-loop fastener (or Velcro) so that the framed cover 100 could be secured in a folded state, as shown in FIG. 3. The fasteners could also be configured to be secured to the item or object.
Referring to FIG. 4, each longitudinal member 108 of the tubular frame 106 includes a joint member 112 at a mid-portion thereof. Each longitudinal member 108 includes a first member 108 a and a second member 108 b pivotally coupled together. The joint member 112 includes a pair of caps 112 a, 112 b which are fixedly coupled to opposing ends of the first and second members 108 a, 108 b, respectively. The caps 112 a, 112 b and hinge 114 are preferably constructed of stainless steel to prevent corrosion but other materials could be used. The fixed engagement is accomplished with adhesive but could also fitted by form fit, threaded engagement or welding. Alternatively, the caps could be replaced with plugs for fixedly engaging with openings of the first and second members 108 a, 108 b. A hinge 114 is coupled with each opposing cap 112 a, 112 b to form a pivotal engagement such that the first and second members 108 a, 108 b are pivotable downward with respect to the hinge 114 when collapsing the framed cover 100. With this configuration, the tubular frame 106 will not collapse during installation and removal when a user applies an upward force to the tubular frame 106 to lift the same.
Referring to FIGS. 1-4, in operation, the framed cover 100 is installed on an item or object 1 such that the entire item or object is covered from top to bottom as shown in FIG. 1. Here, the user(s) could lift the entire framed cover 100 over the item or object and accurately align the center of the framed cover 100 with the hinge 114 with the center of the grill 1, as shown for example in FIG. 2. The user could open the tubular frame 106 and evenly lower all four sides without having to change his standing location or hand grip location. The tubular frame further provides for a ballast which naturally pull the flexible cover 102 down and eliminates the need for tie downs.
As shown in FIGS. 1-4, to remove the framed cover 100, a user or users engages the tubular frame 106 and lifts the framed cover 100 upward from the item or object 1 as shown in FIG. 2. The tubular frame 106 is folded about the hinge 114 such that corresponding first and second members 108 a, 108 b of each longitudinal member 108 are pivoted downward with respect to the hinge 114 to a position where the first and second members 108 a, 108 b are against each other in a fully folded state as shown in FIG. 3. Thus, the framed cover 100 is folded into a substantially flat configuration. In this configuration, an outer surface of the flexible cover 102 is exposed even in the folded state while an inner surface of the flexible cover 102 is continues unexposed and kept clean. Removal is equally controllable as installation of the framed cover 100 as the framed cover 100 allows for a user to lift the entire flexible cover 102 simultaneously. After removal, the user can fold the tubular frame 106 and flexible cover 102 in one movement, and then the framed cover 100 could be placed neatly in any location. The optional fasteners described above could be used to hold the framed cover 100 closed to allow for easy carrying and storage.
A framed cover 600 of the present invention is constructed without a collapsible tubular frame as shown in FIG. 19. Such a framed cover 600 could be utilized for smaller footprint items.
As shown in FIG. 20, a framed cover 700 of the present invention is constructed with a hinge with ratchet and release button 702 known in the prior art, which allows a user to partially open or close before repositioning and completing installment. The framed cover 700 could also be provided with a padded tubular frame 704 to prevent scratching and could be rounded to fit different shapes.
As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, a framed cover 800 of the present invention is constructed for use on an automobile. Here, the framed cover 800 includes the same tubular frame 106 and a similar joint member 812 as the joint member 112 described above. Specifically, the tubular frame 106 is foldable upward relative to the joint member 812 instead of downward. Wheels 802 are included on the tubular frame 106 at or near the joint member 812. This allows for the framed cover 800 to be rolled out while still folded in half so that a user can position one side of the framed cover 800 on one half of the car, and then extend the other side of the framed cover 800 onto the other half of the car by pivoting the tubular frame 106 over the car. This configuration also assists the user in snow removal as the user only needs to pivot one side of the tubular frame 106 onto the other to remove snow from the framed cover 800.
Referring to FIGS. 5-6, a framed cover 200 of the present invention is shown. The framed cover 200 generally comprises a flexible cover 210 coupled to a tubular frame 230 for covering an item or object, for example a grill 1.
The general characteristics of the flexible cover 210 are substantially similar to the flexible cover 102 described above. The flexible cover 210 includes side portions 212, 214 coupled to a front and rear portion 216, 218. The front and rear portions 216, 218 each include an engagement point 217 at a mid-point along a bottom edge thereof. The side, front and rear portions 212, 214, 216, 218 are further coupled to a top portion 220. Each side portion 212, 214 includes a reinforced portion 222 which comprises reinforced material constructed of nylon, polyester, plastics or a combination thereof and attached to the side portions 212, 214 by means such as adhesives or stitching. The reinforced portion 222 also includes a handle 224 extending upwardly therefrom. A front portion 220 and rear portion 222 of the flexible cover 210 each include fasteners 224.
One side of the front portion 216 includes a pair of fastener members 216 a, 216 b, one positioned vertically along a side edge and another positioned horizontally along a bottom edge. An opposite side of the front portion 216 also includes a pair of fastener members 217 a, 217 b, one positioned vertically along a side edge and another positioned horizontally along a bottom edge. The rear portion 218 also includes fastener members 218 a, 218 b, 219 a, 219 b in similar fashion. As well, the top portion 220 includes a pair of fastener members 220 a, 220 b, one positioned along a side edge and the other positioned along an opposing side edge. Each pair of fastener members are a male and female portion of a hook-and-loop fastener (Velcro) but other fasteners could be used, for example, male and female portions of a snap button.
As shown in FIGS. 5-6, the tubular frame 230 includes a plurality of elongated tubular frame members 232 coupled together with a plurality of connecting members 234. Alternatively, each elongated tubular frame member 232 could be constructed with a pushbutton mechanism 240 at or near the engagement point 217 such as that shown in FIG. 23, which is known in the prior art. As such, the tubular frame 230 is capable of being at least partially disassembled if desired. The tubular frame 230 could be constructed like the tubular frame 106 described above.
In operation, the framed cover 200 is installed on an item or object by first assembling the tubular frame 230 and then applying the framed cover 200 to the item or object as shown for example in FIG. 2. The framed cover 200 is removed from the item or object by engaging the handles 224 and/or the tubular frame 230 upward from the item or object. The framed cover 200 is folded by first disassembling the elongated tubular frame members 232 at or near the engagement points 217. Disassembly is not required if the free ends 104 of the flexible cover 102 are durably stitched or glued together, encompassing the tubular frame 106, as the tubular frame 106 is not then removable from the flexible cover. The user(s) engages the engagement point 217 of the front and rear portions 216, 218 upward while bringing each side portion 212, 214 together and the handles 224 are side-by-side, as indicated by the arrows in FIG. 5. Simultaneously, the top portion 220 is folded downward between the front and rear portions 216, 218 and the side portions 212, 214, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 5. Each pair of fastener members 216 a and 216 b; 217 a and 217 b; 218 a and 218 b; 219 a and 219 b; and 220 a and 220 b are engaged and the framed cover 200 is secured into a fully folded state. In this state, the user is capable of transporting the folded framed cover 200 by using the handles 224.
Referring to FIGS. 7-10, a framed cover 300 of the present invention is shown. The tubular frame cover 300 is adapted for use with hand trucks 3. Thus, the hand truck 3 is equipped with a pouch or carrying case 5 and a ramp 6. The framed cover 300 includes a flexible cover 302 having four sides 304 and a top 306. The flexible cover 302 could be constructed of reusable polypropylene for water-resistance but other materials could be used, such as those described above.
A tubular frame 320 is coupled to a bottom end 308 of the flexible cover 302 in similar fashion as described above with respect to the flexible cover 102 as shown in FIGS. 1-4. Here, the tubular frame 320 includes three tubular frame members 322, 324, 326 which are pivotally coupled together with fasteners 328 such as screws. The tubular frame members 322, 324, 326 are ⅜″ steel rods having a total weight of about 1.5 pounds to provide structure and to assist during the installation process.
As such, the framed cover 300 is installed on an item or object 7 by covering the item or object 7 with the flexible cover 302 and securing the tubular frame 320 to a lower portion of the item or object 7, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. The tubular frame 320 provides control over the flexible cover 302 as the framed cover 300 is installed. The framed cover 300 is removed from the item or object 7 and placed on a surface, with an intermediate tubular frame member 324 on the surface. The framed cover 300 is folded by first pivoting a first outer tubular frame member 322 onto the intermediate tubular frame member 324 and then pivoting a second outer member 326 onto the first outer member 322 into a substantially flat configuration, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. The partially folded framed cover 300 is then rolled into a compact fully folded state, as shown in FIG. 10. The fully folded framed cover 300 could be stored in the pouch 5.
A framed cover 400 of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 11-14. The framed cover 400 could be used to cover a variety of items or objects, which could be transported by a hand truck 3, for example. The framed cover 400 includes a flexible cover 410 having four side portions 412, 414, 416, 418 coupled to a top portion 420 and a bottom portion 422. Optionally, the framed cover 400 could be manufactured without the bottom portion 422. The flexible cover 410 is constructed of a foldable material such as vinyl, polyester, cotton or a combination thereof, or other materials specified above. One of the side portions 412 includes a means for opening the same, for example, a zipper 412 a.
Perimeters of the top and bottom portions 420, 422 include a tubular frame 430, 432, respectively. Each tubular frame 430, 432 includes tubular frame members 430 a, 430 b, 430 c, 430 d; and 432 a, 432 b, 432 c, 432 d, extending the length of the respective perimeters. Each tubular frame member 430 a, 430 b, 430 c, 430 d; and 432 a, 432 b, 432 c, 432 d, is pivotably coupled to each other. Tubular frame members 430 a and 430 b, and 430 c and 430 d; and tubular frame members 432 a and 432 b, and 432 c and 432 d are pivotably coupled to each other via a first pivoting member 434 such that the respective tubular frame members are folded inward with respect to the first pivoting member 434 toward each other. Tubular frame members 430 b and 430 c, and 430 d and 430 a; and tubular frame members 432 b and 432 c, and 432 d and are pivotably coupled to each other via a second pivoting member 436 such that the respective tubular frame members are folded upward with respect to the second pivoting member 436 toward each other. Thus, pivoting members 436 are held in place when the framed cover 400 is in an engaged state, as shown in FIG. 11. The pivoting members 434, 436 could be a hinge, as shown in FIG. 12, or a pin as shown in FIG. 13.
Referring to FIG. 14, in operation, the framed cover 400 is folded by pivoting frame members 430 c, 430 d and frame members 432 c, 432 d toward frame members 430 b, 430 a and frame members 432 b, 432 a, respectively, about the second pivoting members 436. In this configuration, frame members 430 c, 430 d and frame members 430 b, 430 a are overlapped while frame members 432 c, 432 d and frame members 432 b, 432 a are overlapped. The overlapped frame members are then pivoted inward about the first pivoting members 434 to form a substantially flat configuration.
Referring to FIGS. 15-18, a framed cover 500 of the present invention is shown. The framed cover 500 includes a flexible cover 510 having four side portions 512, 514, 516, 518 and two top portions 520, 522 extending from side portions 512 and 516. Thus, side portions 514 and 518 are shorter in length by the length of the top portions 520, 522. The flexible cover 510 is configured such that each portion is independently operably coupled to a separate spring-loaded roller (not shown) fixed to respective sides of a base 524. That is, each portion of the flexible cover 510 is extendable upward into an engaged state and retractable downward into a disengaged state, as shown in FIG. 15.
Still referring to FIGS. 15-18, the framed cover 500 includes a locking mechanism comprising a first locking member 530 coupled to the first top portion 520 and a second locking member 532 coupled to the second top portion 522. Each locking member 530, 532 extends transversely along free ends of the top portions 520, 522 and is slidably coupled to tubular frame members 520 a, 522 a which extend along top edges of the side portions 514, 518, as shown in FIGS. 16-18. Each locking member 530, 532 includes an engagement member 530 a, 532 a integrally formed with a handle 530 b, 532 b. Thus, the side portions 512, 514, 516, 518 are movable simultaneously.
In operation, the framed cover 500 is retracted when not in use, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. The framed cover 500 is applied to an item or object by engaging the handles 530 a, 532 b upward. Side portions 512, 514, 516, 518 are extended to a top edge of the item or object where side portions 514, 516 are no longer extendable, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 17. The top portions 520, 522 are further extended toward each other and the engagement members 530 a, 532 a are engaged into an engaged state, as shown in FIG. 18.
The examples of the primary embodiment described above could have the tubular frame system 240 described above and shown in FIG. 23. Alternatively, each example could include the tubular frame system 900 shown in FIG. 24. In this embodiment, an outer tube 902 is coupled to an inner tube 904 to create the tubular frame 900. A distal end of the inner tube 904 includes a hook screw 906 extending therefrom and within the outer tube 902. The outer tube 902 includes a fixed pin connected to a biasing member 908, such as a spring, and is coupled to the hook screw 906. As such, the outer tube 902 could be pulled away from the inner tube 904 to assist the user in installing and removing the framed covers of the present invention.
The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiment is to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention will be, therefore, indicated by claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

I claim:

1. A framed cover comprising:

a flexible cover having a continuous interior surface, a continuous exterior surface, and at least one opening, orthogonal to the continuous exterior surface, with a planar shape and perimeter that will allow it to fit over an item to be covered;

a tubular frame having a plurality of members, a centerline, and a planar shape defined at the centerline;

wherein the planar shaped defined at the centerline of the tubular frame is the same planar shape as the opening of the flexible cover; and

wherein the flexible cover terminates at the tubular frame.

2. The framed cover of claim 1, wherein the plurality of members of the tubular frame have a cross-section.

3. The framed cover of claim 2, wherein the member cross-section is a circle.

4. The framed cover of claim 2, wherein the member cross-section is a square.

5. The framed cover of claim 1, wherein the plurality of members of the tubular frame are hollow.

6. The framed cover of claim 1, wherein the plurality of members of the tubular frame are solid. The framed cover of claim 1, wherein the tubular frame further comprises at least one connector, wherein the at least one connector connects at least two members of the tubular frame.

8. The framed cover of claim 7, wherein the tubular frame further comprises at least one hinge, wherein the at least one hinge connects at least two members of the tubular frame.

9. The framed cover of claim 8, wherein the sum of connectors and hinges equals the number of members of the tubular frame.

10. The framed cover of claim 8, wherein each hinge has a locked state and a hinged state.

11. The framed cover of claim 10, wherein the framed cover may be collapsed by putting each hinge into its hinged state and drawing the plurality of members together.

12. The framed cover of claim 10, wherein the flexible cover may be separated from the tubular frame and wherein the tubular frame may be collapsed by putting each hinge into its hinged state and drawing the plurality of members together.

13. The framed cover of claim 12, wherein the collapsed tubular frame may act as a core upon which to roll the flexible cover to place the framed cover in a storable state.

14. The framed cover of claim 1, wherein the flexible cover is water-resistant.

15. The framed cover of claim 1, wherein the flexible cover is water-proof.

16. The framed cover of claim 1, wherein the flexible cover is dust-proof.

17. The framed cover of claim 1, wherein the termination of the flexible cover is achieved by durably stitching the flexible cover to itself, substantially encompassing the tubular frame.

18. The framed cover of claim 1, wherein the termination of the flexible cover is achieved by durably gluing the flexible cover to itself, substantially encompassing the tubular frame.

19. The framed cover of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of caster wheels, wherein the caster wheels are attached to the tubular frame.

20. The framed cover of claim 1, wherein the flexible cover has two openings, with one oriented so that it terminates at the tubular frame and the other opening oriented distal to the tubular frame.

21. The framed cover of claim 20, wherein the opening distal to the tubular frame is constructed in a fashion so that it may be closed.

22. A method of covering an item with a framed cover comprising the steps of

identifying an item to be covered;

determining the maximum planar dimensions of the item to be covered, wherein the maximum planar dimensions of the item to be covered are parallel to the surface upon with the item rests;

selecting a framed cover comprised of

a flexible cover having a continuous interior surface, a continuous exterior surface, and at least one opening, orthogonal to the continuous exterior surface, with a planar shape and perimeter that will allow it to fit over the item to be covered;

wherein the flexible cover terminates at the tubular frame

orienting the planar shaped opening of the flexible cover and tubular frame allow the maximum planar dimensions of the item to be covered to pass through.

23. The method of covering an item with a framed cover of claim 22 comprising the additional steps of lowering the framed cover over the item to be covered.

24. The method of covering an item with a framed cover of claim 22 wherein the flexible cover has two openings, one terminating at the tubular frame and the other oriented distal to the tubular frame; and the method comprises the additional steps of raising the framed cover in order to cover the item to be covered.

25. The method of covering an item with a framed cover of claim 24, comprising the additional step of closing the second opening.

26. A method of assembling a framed cover suitable for cover an item comprising the steps of

identifying an item to be cover;

measuring the maximum planar dimensions of the item to be covered, wherein the maximum planar dimensions of the item to be covered are parallel to the surface upon with the item rests;

selecting a plurality of members, at least one connector, and at least one hinge, wherein, when configured to enclose a planar area, the plurality of members, at least one connector, and at least one hinge have a perimeter and planar area that allow the maximum planar dimensions of the item to be covered to pass through;

assembling a tubular frame from the plurality of members, at least one connector, and at least one hinge, by connecting at least two members with each connector and by connecting at least two members with each hinge, wherein, when assembled, the tubular frame has a perimeter enclosing a planar area that will allow the maximum planar dimensions of the item to be covered to pass through;

connecting a flexible cover to the tubular frame, wherein the flexible cover has a continuous exterior surface and an opening that is at least as large as the perimeter of the tubular frame.