Described is a control structure for unfolding and folding a collapsible device or shelter. The control structure includes a sliding seat that is pivotally connected to adapter members, which are in turn connected to poles, e.g., tent poles. The tent poles are also pivotally connected to a lower support, and a resilient member (e.g., a spring) forces a separating between the sliding seat the the lower support. The resilient member biases the sliding seat toward the lower support to maintain the control structure in an unfolded position when open, and in a folded position when closed.