A telescopic column includes a first telescopic element and a second telescopic element moveable linearly with respect to one another, at least one drive unit connected to the first telescopic element, at least one connecting element configured to transmit a force from the drive unit to the second telescopic element, a monitoring unit configured to detect an operating parameter of the connecting element, and a switch configured to send a signal to the monitoring unit in response to the detected operating parameter being outside a predetermined range.

A portable multi-functional system having a multi-functional apparatus customizable by way of devices arranged to respectively perform different functions, and a container arranged to be transported by way of ground, naval or air transportation and having predetermined external dimensions is provided. The multi-functional apparatus is secured to the container, and is arranged to take at least two types of layout: a first layout or transport layout wherein the multi-functional apparatus is inside the predetermined external dimensions and a second layout or lifting up layout wherein the multi-functional apparatus projects from the predetermined external dimensions of the container so as to realize a tower. The invention also relates to a method for realizing the multi-functional system.

A system and methods for the storage, and preservation of mechanical assets, including collectable automobiles, small airplanes and watercraft in a storage unit. The storage unit includes a plurality of asset modules. The volume of each asset module is variable. The atmosphere of each asset module may be controlled by a control system. Control of the atmosphere of each asset module includes control of parameters including the type of gas each atmosphere is composed of and the temperature, the pressure and relative humidity of each atmosphere. These parameters may be monitored and controlled from a remote location.

An aspect includes a transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure including: a center stationary section; a pair of primary platform assemblies, each primary platform including a first panel pivotally joined on opposite sides of the center stationary section and a second panel pivotally joined to the first panel on a side opposite the first panel; and at least one wall assembly pivotally joined to center stationary section and one of the primary platforms.

An extendable and retractable column which is formed from at least three linked sections or chains. The linked sections include a plurality of individual segments linked end to end. As the linked segments are extended, each of the individual segments of the linked chains engage individual segments of adjacent linked sections to form a column. As the linked sections are retracted, each of the individual segments of the linked sections disengage from the individual segment of the adjacent linked sections and the individual linked sections may be rolled up into a multi-sided form for compact storage.

A shelter and associated methodology for operating a shelter that is selectively positionable between an operable raised mode and an idle lowered mode. The shelter has an outer frame with a first upstanding perimeter wall defining an open top. An inner frame has a second upstanding perimeter wall nested within the first upstanding perimeter wall in the lowered mode. Means are provided for raising the inner frame through the outer frame's open top and above the outer frame in the raised mode. The shelter can further include a second inner frame having a third upstanding perimeter wall nested within the second upstanding perimeter wall in the lowered mode. In that case, the means for raising is further configured for raising the second inner frame through the inner frame's open top and above the inner and outer frames in the raised mode.

A portable multi-functional system having a multi-functional apparatus customizable by way of devices arranged to respectively perform different functions, and a container arranged to be transported by way of ground, naval or air transportation and having predetermined external dimensions is provided. The multi-functional apparatus is secured to the container, and is arranged to take at least two types of layout: a first layout or transport layout wherein the multi-functional apparatus is inside the predetermined external dimensions and a second layout or lifting up layout wherein the multi-functional apparatus projects from the predetermined external dimensions of the container so as to realize a tower. The invention also relates to a method for realizing the multi-functional system.

An extendable two story building is packaged within the standard dimensions of an intermodal container. An upper floor is supported above a lower floor. A five-sided lid is raised and locked to provide a second story. The lid is lowered and locked on a base in a down position. The lowered lid is fully enclosed so that no door is accessible and the interior of the building is secure during storage and transportation.

A mobile tower for transportation to and rapid deployment at remote sites where the mobile tower can be engaged with the ground, the mobile tower including an extendable and retractable tower secured to a mobile support structure including a frame having a plurality of rapidly deployable outriggers, wherein the tower includes three series of pivotally interconnected tower sections or segments, sections or segments of which engage with segments of each of the other series when the tower is assembled; the mobile tower including a rigging apparatus that generally encircles the tower and a plurality of guy wires secured between the tower and the respective outriggers to stabilize the tower after the tower is assembled. The guy wires are preferably secured to the rigging apparatus at first and second connecting positions that are displaced from one another about an outer perimeter of the rigging apparatus. Methods of deploying the mobile tower are also disclosed.

A packaged container housing structure includes a container box frame of rectangular configuration defining an interior space and an open top, closed bottom, opposite right and left open sides and opposite open ends, a top roof mounted on the container box frame and movable toward and away from the open top to close and open access of air flow into the interior space, coupling fittings integrated at top cover corners to enable lifting the packaged container housing structure, a plurality of deployable panels including wall panels, ceiling panels and floor panels stored in the interior space of the container box frame, and support feet attachable to the floor panels and container box frame being adjustable in length independent of one another so as to position the container box frame in a level orientation relative upon a mounting site.