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View Full Version here: : Foldup gazebo as portable obs?

michaellxv
12-04-2010, 10:28 PM
Dumb idea #342

Take a foldup gazebo like this http://www.supercheapauto.com.au/online-store/products/SCA-Gazebo-Deluxe-3m-x-3m-Blue.aspx?pid=126512#details (just got a catalogue, they are on special for $139)

Leave the roof off and remove the roof supports. Leaving the legs joined at the top by the side supports.

Wrap the whole lot in tarps or other material of your choice.

Drill new holes in the legs to set the height you want.

Thoughts:question:
jjjnettie
12-04-2010, 10:45 PM
3x3 metres is huge.
You'll get a lot of sag in the top rails once the tarps were hung.
michaellxv
12-04-2010, 10:54 PM
The top rails are not actually rails but a scissor section so it can fold up. I was more concerned about loss of lateral stability with the removal of the roof section.

I actually already have the 2m version which is probably what I would attack. The 3m would be its intact replacement. :D
jjjnettie
12-04-2010, 11:08 PM
ok, the concertina sided sort.
2mt....you can still fit a lot in that area.
no reason why you can't keep the roof frame work up, and if it gets in the way, remove that section, you should still retain integrity with only 3 supports.
michaellxv
12-04-2010, 11:30 PM
I did try it unmodified once but if nothing else the roof supports are distracting and Murphy's law says they will always be in the way.

Hadn't thought of removing just 1. That gives me half the sky and I don't loose much as my western view is mostly blocked anyway.
jjjnettie
13-04-2010, 12:08 AM
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=59707
Check out this thread.
michaellxv
13-04-2010, 12:29 AM
Aaaargh, too many choices. I guess I get to procrastonate further.
michaellxv
13-04-2010, 06:39 PM
Something like this. Undo a couple of small bolts and 1 roof support drops away. Easy enough to put back. For a light shower the roof could be pulled over although it would sag under any real rain. Only had enough tarps for 2 walls, but you get the idea.

First shot with legs not extended. Not quite high enough.

Second shot with legs extended. The cross pieces block the view, something about halfway should be right.

This is the 2.4m version I already have. Plenty of space for scope and other stuff.