Apparatus and method for securing a ground cover at an area

Abstract

An apparatus for securing a ground cover with respect to an area of ground; the ground cover having an edge substantially defining the area; includes: (a) a plurality of fixing structures; selected fixing structures being fixed at a first end in the ground generally outside the area; (b) a plurality of accessory structures; each respective accessory structure being attached with a respective fixing structure at a second end distal from the first end; (c) a plurality of engaging structures; selected engaging structures being engaged with the ground cover at a plurality of engagement loci distributed about the edge; and (d) a plurality of elastomeric connector structures coupling respective fixing structures with respective engaging structures. The accessory structures may include at least one of a storage compartment, a container receiving structure, a lighting unit, and an audio speaker unit configured for wireless coupling with a base unit.

Description

[0001]This application claims benefit of prior filed copending Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61 / 606,032, filed Mar. 2, 2012.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention is directed to securing apparatuses, and especially to securing apparatuses and methods for fixing a sheet of flexible material over a base or area. The present invention is especially useful for securing a towel or other ground cover over sand at a beach.[0003]Throughout this disclosure, reference to a “towel” is intended to be an exemplary reference not limited to a towel per se, but including other ground covers such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a tarp, a blanket or other sheet of flexible material. For purposes of this disclosure the term “sheet” shall mean “a surface or part of a surface in which it is possible to pass from any one point of it to any other without leaving the surface.” By way of example and not by way of limitation, a sheet of flexible material may be e...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides an apparatus and method for fixing a sheet of flexible material, like a towel or other ground cover, over a base or area, like ground or sand, to reduce the collection of sand or debris on the towel or other grounds cover. It also makes it easier to remove debris and reduces wrinkling or bunching of the sheet of flexible material.

Problems solved by technology

When one lies on a towel over sand there is often collection of sand or other debris or detritus upon the towel that can irritate a user.

Further, as one moves about on a towel over sand the towel often wrinkles or bunches up, presenting further discomfort to a user and oftentimes causing sand or debris to further collect on the towel.

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