Storm protection apparatus

Abstract

An apparatus for use in connecting an asset comprises one or more sheet members adapted to be located over an upper surface of an asset and secured between suitable anchors, preferably secured to the ground. In one disclosed embodiment the apparatus is modular and comprises a plurality of sheets releasably connected together via one or more interconnecting assemblies. In use, the apparatus deflects high winds around and over the asset, thus preventing or reducing damage caused by high wind loading.

Description

CLAIM FOR RIGHT OF PRIORITY UNDER 35 U.S.C. §119(b) [0001] This present application claims all available benefit, under 35 U.S.C. § 119(b), of Utility Patent Application No. GB 0513335.0 filed in the United Kingdom on Jun. 30, 2005. FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to an apparatus for use in protecting assets, such as buildings and the like, from damage caused by extreme weather, particularly high wind conditions. BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION [0003] Damage or loss of property, such as permanent buildings, mobile accommodation such as caravans, vehicles, boats ashore, aircraft or the like often occurs during extreme weather conditions where high wind-generated forces exist. For example, items may be displaced from their intended location if their weight and / or anchorage is insufficient to resist the loads induced by high winds. However, it is often the case that damage to structures, such as permanent buildings, is initiated at their roof portion due to the ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0047] Preferably, the anchor further comprises an adjustable member adjustably mounted on the elongate member and aligned substantially coaxially therewith such that a telescoping effect between the elongate member and adjustable member may be achieved. Accordingly, the length of the anchor may be varied. In a preferred arrangement the adjustable member is threadably coupled to the elongate member such that relative rotation of the adjustable member and elongate member permits adjustment therebetween.

[0048] Advantageously, in use, the toggle element of the anchor may be located in the first position and the anchor subsequently driven into the ground, for example by hammering or the like, with an end of the toggle element leading. A driving rod may be utilised during insertion of the anchor into the ground. For example, the driving rod may engage the toggle element and be adapted to apply or transmit a driving force thereto to drive the anchor into the ground. On

Problems solved by technology

Damage or loss of property, such as permanent buildings, mobile accommodation such as caravans, vehicles, boats ashore, aircraft or the like often occurs during extreme weather conditions where high wind-generated forces exist.

For example, items may be displaced from their intended location if their weight and/or anchorage is insufficient to resist the loads induced by high winds.

However, it is often the case that damage to structures, such as permanent buildings, is initiated at their roof portion due to the creation of adverse pressure differentials.

Moreover, air will be forced into the s

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