CAMPING ASSEMBLY WITH A STORAGE BOX AND A TENT

Abstract

The camping assembly 2 may be in the form of a folding camper 10 and comprises a canopy 30 which effectively provides a tent canopy 30 for the folding camper 10. The folding camper 10 also comprises a framework 32 to maintain the tent canopy 30 in a raised configuration in order to provide an accommodation space within the folding camper 10 in the assembled configuration. The framework 32 includes a front frame 34 and a rear frame 36. The front frame 34 comprises three airbeams 41, 42, 43. The three airbeams include a front airbeam 41, an intermediate airbeam 42 and a rear airbeam 43. Each of the airbeams 41, 42, 43 comprises a curved or hooped inflatable airbeam. Similarly, the rear frame 36 comprises three airbeams 45, 46, 47. The three airbeams 45, 46, 47 include a front airbeam 45, an intermediate airbeam 46 and a rear airbeam 47. Each of the airbeams 45, 46, 47 comprises a curved or hooped airbeam. The present invention provides a folding camper 10 which is assembled by simultaneously inflating a single airbeam network to put the canopy 30 in tension and to make the canopy 30 taut. The folding camper 10 does not require any auxiliary tensioning system or mechanism for the canopy since this is provided intrinsically by the connection of the lower edge of the canopy around the trailer and due to the geometry of the airbeam network and, in particular, a central longitudinal airbeam.

Claims

1-35. (canceled)

36. A camping assembly comprising a storage box and a tent, wherein the storage box is arranged to contain the tent in a transportation configuration and wherein the tent is arranged to be assembled from the storage box whilst remaining attached to the storage box, an accommodation area is arranged to extend outwardly from the storage box; the tent comprising a canopy secured to a support structure for supporting the canopy in an assembled configuration; wherein the support structure comprises a plurality of lateral inflatable support members and in which, in an assembled configuration, the lateral support members extend laterally across the canopy; the lateral inflatable support members provide a front frame and a rear frame; each lateral inflatable support member within the front frame has two respective longitudinal ends which are permanently fixed to respective front connectors to provide airflow between the lateral inflatable support members and equalise the pressure within the lateral inflatable support members and also to synchronise the inflation/deflation of the lateral inflatable support members, and each lateral inflatable support member within the rear frame has two respective longitudinal ends which are permanently fixed to respective rear connectors to provide airflow between the lateral inflatable support members and equalise the pressure within the lateral inflatable support members and also to synchronise the inflation/deflation of the lateral inflatable support members; wherein, in the assembled configuration, the box provides a fixed footprint about which the canopy is secured and the support structure tensions the canopy in the assembled configuration; and wherein the canopy is secured to the box in the transportation configuration and the canopy is secured to the box in the assembled configuration such that the canopy remains secured to the storage box as the tent is assembled from the transportation configuration to the assembled configuration.

37. A camping assembly according to claim 36 in which the lengths of the lateral inflatable support members and the height of the tent canopy in the assembled configuration is greater than 50% of the length of the storage box.

38. A camping assembly according to claim 36 in which, in the assembled configuration, the folding camper comprises three lateral inflatable support members located in parallel vertical planes which provide a central accommodation area.

39. A camping assembly according to claim 38 in which the central accommodation area provides an increased height area compared to end sleeping accommodation areas which are provide at the or each end.

40. A camping assembly according to claim 36 in which the support structure comprises a longitudinal support member.

41. A camping assembly according to claim 40 in which the longitudinal support member comprises a longitudinal inflatable support member.

42. A camping assembly according to claim 40 in which each lateral and longitudinal support member remains attached to the canopy in the transportation configuration and in the assembled configuration and remain attached to the canopy as the tent is assembled from the transportation configuration to the assembled configuration.

43. A camping assembly according to claim 36 in which the camping assembly comprises a compressor and wherein the compressor is arranged to inflate each inflatable support member from a stored configuration to an assembled configuration.

44. A camping assembly according to claim 43 in which the compressor comprises an electric compressor and also comprises a power source.

45. A camping assembly according to claim 43 in which the camping assembly comprises a storage compartment for storing the compressor therein and in which the storage compartment comprises a cover for concealing and/or accessing the compressor.

46. A camping assembly according to claim 36 in which the tent assembly comprises deflation means to deflate the inflatable support members.

47. A camping assembly according to claim 46 in which the deflation means is provided by a compressor.

48. A camping assembly according to claim 36 in which each inflatable support member comprises a series of linked contiguous inner tube sections and adjacent inner tube sections are connected together by a connector comprising a connecting valve and wherein the connecting valve comprises a valve switch to selectively connect or isolate the chambers of two adjacent inner tube sections.

49. A camping assembly according to claim 36 in which the lateral inflatable support members and a longitudinal inflatable support member provide a single inflatable network.

50. A camping assembly according to claim 36 in which the canopy is fixed around a lower periphery to a rigid periphery provided by the storage box.

51. A camping assembly according to claim 50 in which at least a part of the canopy is fixed and gripped/clamped in a static configuration to a rigid periphery portion provided by the box and the at least part of the canopy is immovably retained to a rigid portion provided by the box.

52. A camping assembly according to claim 36 in which a rigid cover of the storage box comprises a first cover section and a second cover section and both cover sections are pivotally connected to the storage box.

53. A camping assembly according to claim 36 in which the front frame comprises at least two lateral inflatable support members comprising a front lateral inflatable support member and a rear lateral inflatable support member and in which the length of the rear lateral inflatable support member is greater than the length of the front lateral inflatable support member, and in which the rear frame comprises at least two lateral inflatable support members comprising a front lateral inflatable support member and a rear lateral inflatable support member and in which the length of the rear lateral inflatable support member is greater than the front lateral inflatable support member.

54. A camping assembly according to claim 36 in which the front frame comprises three lateral inflatable support members comprising a front lateral inflatable support member, a middle lateral inflatable support member and a rear lateral inflatable support member and in which the length of the front lateral inflatable support member is greater than the length of the middle lateral inflatable support member and the length of the rear lateral inflatable support member is greater than the front lateral inflatable support member and the middle lateral inflatable support member.

55. A camping assembly according to claim 54 in which each lateral inflatable support member within the front frame has two respective longitudinal ends which are permanently fixed to respective front connectors to provide airflow between the lateral inflatable support members and equalise the pressure within the lateral inflatable support members and also to synchronise the inflation/deflation of the lateral inflatable support members.

56. A camping assembly according to claim 54 in which the rear frame comprises three lateral inflatable support members comprising a front lateral inflatable support member, a middle lateral inflatable support member and a rear lateral inflatable support member and in which the length of the front lateral inflatable support member is greater than the length of the middle lateral inflatable support member and the length of the rear lateral inflatable support member is greater than the front lateral inflatable support member and the middle lateral inflatable support member.

57. A camping assembly according to claim 56 in which each lateral inflatable support member within the rear frame has two respective longitudinal ends which are permanently fixed to respective rear connectors to provide airflow between the lateral inflatable support member and equalise the pressure within the lateral inflatable support member and also to synchronise the inflation/deflation of the lateral inflatable support member.

58. A method of assembling a camping assembly, the camping assembly comprising: a storage box and a tent, wherein the storage box is arranged to contain the tent in a transportation configuration and wherein the tent is arranged to be assembled from the storage box whilst remaining attached to the storage box, an accommodation area is arranged to extend outwardly from the storage box; the tent comprising a canopy secured to a support structure for supporting the canopy in an assembled configuration; wherein the support structure comprises a plurality of lateral inflatable support members and in which, in an assembled configuration, the lateral support members extend laterally across the canopy; the lateral inflatable support members provide a front frame and a rear frame; each lateral inflatable support member within the front frame has two respective longitudinal ends which are permanently fixed to respective front connectors to provide airflow between the lateral inflatable support members and equalise the pressure within the lateral inflatable support members and also to synchronise the inflation/deflation of the lateral inflatable support members, and each lateral inflatable support member within the rear frame has two respective longitudinal ends which are permanently fixed to respective rear connectors to provide airflow between the lateral inflatable support members and equalise the pressure within the lateral inflatable support members and also to synchronise the inflation/deflation of the lateral inflatable support members; wherein, in the assembled configuration, the box provides a fixed footprint about which the canopy is secured and the support structure tensions the canopy in the assembled configuration; and wherein the canopy is secured to the box in the transportation configuration and the canopy is secured to the box in the assembled configuration such that the canopy remains secured to the storage box as the tent is assembled from the transportation configuration to the assembled configuration; the method comprising: maintaining the canopy secured to the storage box as the tent is assembled from the transportation configuration to the assembled configuration; and inflating a support structure comprising the plurality of lateral inflatable support members.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0115] The present invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the drawings that follow, in which:

[0116] FIG. 1 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of a camping assembly in an assembled configuration;

[0117] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a camping assembly in an assembled configuration;

[0118] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a camping assembly in an assembled configuration

[0119] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4E show the assembly sequence of a preferred embodiment of a camping assembly;

[0120] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5E show the assembly sequence of a second preferred embodiment of a camping assembly;

[0121] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6E show the assembly sequence of a third preferred embodiment of a camping assembly;

[0122] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7E show the assembly sequence of a fourth preferred embodiment of a camping assembly;

[0123] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B show a part of an embodiment of the tent in an assembled configuration;

[0124] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B show a part of another embodiment of the tent in an assembled configuration;

[0125] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B show a part of a further embodiment of the tent in an assembled configuration; and

[0126] FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B show a part of a yet further embodiment of the tent in an assembled configuration.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0127] As shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3 and FIGS. 4A to 4E, a camping assembly in the form of a folding camper 10 comprises a trailer (storage box) 12 mounted on wheels 14 and includes a tow bar coupling (tow hitch) 16 in order to secure the folding camper to a towing vehicle (not shown). The trailer 12 comprises a rigid box with two side walls and two end walls. The trailer 12 provides a storage box for the tent assembly. The storage box is arranged to store the tent for transportation and storage purposes. The box comprises a rigid box to protect the tent and also enables further apparatus/equipment to be mounted on top of the box, if required.

[0128] The term folding camper 10 is used to include a tent which folds outwardly from a storage box and in which the tent remains attached to the box during the assembly process. In addition, the tent canopy is arranged to be solely tensioned and maintained in an assembled configuration by the associated (integral) support structure such that guy ropes or any other similar external tensioning mechanisms are not required. The storage box opens to provide a footprint for the tent in the assembled configuration. In particular, the canopy is secured around an edge of the storage box which thereby defines the (base) footprint for the tent. This footprint may be defined by the lateral edges of the storage box together with the lateral edges 61, 65 of the covers 22, 24 of the storage box and the distal edges 60, 66 of the covers 22, 24, i.e. the edges of the covers which are spaced from an associated hinge mechanism (or similar articulating/connecting mechanism) between the covers 22, 24 and the storage box 12.

[0129] The trailer 12 also comprises a rigid cover comprising a first section 22 and a second section 24. The first section 22 comprises a rigid front section 22 or panel. The rigid front section 22 is pivotally connected along one edge (a front edge) to a wall of the box 18 of the trailer 12. Similarly, the second section 24 comprises a rigid rear section 24 or panel. The rigid rear section 24 is pivotally connected along one edge (a rear edge) to a wall of the box 18 of the trailer 12.

[0130] In particular, the rigid front section 22 comprises a front bed tray which is arranged to extend out from the box 18 in the assembled configuration in order to provide a solid raised sleeping area or another accommodation area. Similarly, the rigid second section 24 comprises a rear bed tray which is arranged to extend out from the box 18 in the assembled configuration in order to provide a solid raised sleeping area or another accommodation area. The folding camper 10 provides a central accommodation area located between these two sleeping areas.

[0131] In the transit/stored configuration, the front cover section 22 and the rear cover section are in a closed position and close an internal space of the box 18. The box 18 thereby securely contains the interior components of the folding camper 10 within an entirely rigid container. In this transit configuration, the upper surface of the trailer provides a platform on which items can be transported. For example, a mounting frame or rack may be used to enable bicycles, kayaks, motorbikes, wet bikes, jet skis etc. to be secured and transported with the trailer 12.

[0132] A front top edge of the box 18 comprises a linear hinge which pivotally connects an edge of the front cover section 22. The linear hinge extends along the full length of the connecting edge of the front cover section 22. Accordingly, from the stored configuration, the front cover section 22 can be pivoted over the front edge of the box 18 in order to move from a position in which the front cover section 22 closes the box 18 to a position in which the front cover section 22 extends substantially horizontally outwards from the front edge of the box 18. The folding camper 10 may include reinforcement means in order to retain the front cover section 22 in this (assembled) raised horizontal position. The reinforcement means comprises a front support arm which extends upwardly at an angle from a lower position on the box 18 to the underside of the front cover section 22. The front support arm provides a reinforcement strut. In the preferred embodiment the bed tray provides a double bed sized sleeping area.

[0133] The rear cover section 24 is provided in the same way as the front cover section. A front rear edge of the box 18 comprises a linear hinge 49 which pivotally connects an edge of the rear cover section 24. The linear hinge 49 extends along the full length of the connecting edge of the rear cover section 24. Accordingly, from the stored configuration, the rear cover section 24 can be pivoted over the rear edge of the box 18 in order to move from a position in which the rear cover section 24 closes the box 18 to a position in which the rear cover section 24 extends substantially horizontally outwards from the rear edge of the box 18. The folding camper 10 may include reinforcement means in order to retain the rear cover section 24 in this (assembled) raised horizontal position. The reinforcement means comprises a rear support arm which extends upwardly at an angle from a lower position on the box 18 to the underside of the rear cover section 24. The rear support arm provides a reinforcement strut. In the preferred embodiment the bed tray provides a double bed sized sleeping area. Accordingly, the folding camper 10 provides two equally sized double bed sleeping area at the longitudinal ends of the folding camper 10.

[0134] Alternative embodiments of the present invention may have unequally sized bed trays/sleeping areas and the associated cover section may be of unequal sizes.

[0135] As shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the folding camper 10 comprises a canopy 30 which effectively provides a tent canopy 30 for the folding camper 10. The folding camper 10 also comprises a framework 32 (of airbeams) to maintain the tent canopy 30 in a raised configuration in order to provide an accommodation space within the folding camper 10 in the assembled configuration.

[0136] The framework 32 includes a front frame 34 and a rear frame 36. The front frame 34 is arranged to raise and maintain the front part of the tent canopy 30 in a raised and elevated position whilst the rear frame 36 is arranged to raise and maintain the rear part of the tent canopy 30 in an elevated and raised position. A central part of the tent canopy 30 is arranged to span between the front frame 34 and the rear frame 36 to provide the central accommodation area.

[0137] The front frame 34 comprises a plurality of airbeams 40 and, in the preferred embodiment, the front frame comprises three airbeams 41, 42, 43. The three airbeams include a front airbeam 41, an intermediate airbeam 42 and a rear airbeam 43. Each of the airbeams 41, 42, 43 comprises a curved or hooped inflatable airbeam.

[0138] The airbeams 40 of the front frame 34 are all connected or attached to the tent canopy 30 and the airbeams 40 may be substantially integral with the tent canopy 30. The airbeams 40 are arranged, in the assembled configuration, to be spaced apart with a section of the tent canopy 30 extending between adjacent airbeams 40. Accordingly in the assembled configuration, the front frame 40 maintains the tent canopy in a raised position over the front cover section 22. This may provide a first sleeping area.

[0139] Similarly, the rear frame 36 comprises a plurality of airbeams 44 and, in the preferred embodiment, the rear frame 36 comprises three airbeams 45, 46, 47. The three airbeams 45, 46, 47 include a front airbeam 45, an intermediate airbeam 46 and a rear airbeam 47. Each of the airbeams 45, 46, 47 comprises a curved or hooped airbeam.

[0140] The airbeam framework/network includes a longitudinal support member 8 in the form of a single central longitudinal airbeam 80 which maintains the canopy on a tensioned and/or taut state in the assembled configuration. This airbeam is provided in sections with individual sections spanning or extending between adjacent lateral airbeams. These sections may be linear between adjacent lateral airbeams. Each section may include an inner tube with a connecting intersection being provided at the junction between the lateral airbeam and the longitudinal airbeam. The longitudinal airbeam 80 thereby retains the separation distances between the lateral airbeams and strengthens the framework/network structure.

[0141] The longitudinal airbeam 80 is interconnected with the lateral airbeams such that all of the airbeams are simultaneously inflated and retained at an equal pressure. Without the single longitudinal airbeam 80 the lateral airbeams may have a tendency to be concertinaed together under stress, for example due to winds. The longitudinal airbeam 80 prevent or inhibits such movement.

[0142] The airbeams 44 of the front frame are all connected or attached to the tent canopy 30 and the airbeams 44 may be substantially integral with the tent canopy 30. The airbeams 44 are arranged, in the assembled configuration, to be spaced apart with a section of the tent canopy 30 extending between adjacent airbeams 44. Accordingly in the assembled configuration, the rear frame 36 maintains the tent canopy in a raised position over the rear cover section 24. This may provide a second sleeping area.

[0143] A middle section of the tent canopy 30 extends between the rear airbeam 43 of the front frame 40 and the front airbeam 45 of the rear frame 44. This middle section of the tent canopy 30 may provide two opposing side walls and a ceiling for the accommodation area of the folding camper. These wall sections may include window areas and a door(s).

[0144] The securement of the frames 34, 36 to the tent canopy 30 is designed to provide an intrinsic tension in the tent canopy 30 such that the material of the tent canopy 30 is held in a naturally taut state as the airbeams are inflated to operating pressure.

[0145] The canopy 30 is secured around substantially a full lower periphery to the first cover section 22, the second cover section 24 and the box 18 and in which substantially the full lower periphery of the canopy 30 remains attached to securement means as the cover sections move from the storage positions to the assembled positions and the airbeams are subsequently inflated.

[0146] The securement means is provided along both lateral sides 91 of the box 18. The securement means is provided adjacent to or towards the upper lateral edges of the box 18. The securement means provides a non-secured section, for example to provide a door space/opening. The securement means provides a continuous fixing of the lower edge of the canopy 30. For example, a lower hemmed edge of the canopy 30 may be gripped, fixed or clamped within a holding or clamping portion/edge. This hemmed fixed edge does not move and is statically fixed. This helps to reduce wear and tear on the canopy fabric. The trailer provides a fixed footprint which is permanently fixed to the lower edge or hem of the canopy. The airbeam network (in the inflated condition) thereby solely provides the intrinsic tension required in the canopy without the requirement of guy ropes or other tensioning fixing components and devices.

[0147] The securement means is provided along both lateral sides 61, 63 of the first cover section 22 and the front edge 60 of the first cover section 22. Similarly, the securement means is provided along both lateral sides 65 of the second cover section 24 and a rear edge 66 of the second cover section 24.

[0148] The lateral sides 91 of the box also provide upper fixing edges 93.

[0149] The securement means may comprise a fixed/static securement system. The securement means provides fixed rail/channel provided on the box 18, the first cover section 22 and the second cover section 24 into which fixing members around the canopy are retained therein. In particular, the lower peripheral edge of the tent canopy 30 includes a rod which is attached at the lower extent. For example, the rod may be provided in a hem of the canopy. Each securement edge of the box 18, the first cover section 22 and the second cover section 24 comprise an elongate securement channel/rail. The securement system thereby effectively seals the complete interior of the folding camper 10 during assembly, packing and in the assembled state.

[0150] Prior art systems may utilise non-fixed systems whereby the canopy is moved into and out of position. This causes the canopy to suffer from significant wear and tear with use and eventually leads to failures.

[0151] The airbeams 41, 42, 43 of the front frame 34 extend from a first connector 50 mounted on a first lateral side 91 of the box 18 to a second connector 50 mounted on a second opposite lateral side 91 of the box 18. Each airbeam 41, 42, 43 has two respective longitudinal ends which are permanently fixed to the respective connectors 50. The connectors 50 provide airflow between the airbeams and equalise the pressure within the airbeams and also synchronise the inflation/deflation of the airbeams 41, 42, 43.

[0152] The connectors 50 may be provided on brackets mounted adjacent to the front corners of the box 18 and also adjacent to the top edge of the box 18.

[0153] The longitudinal ends of the airbeams 41, 42, 43 are fixed to the brackets or connectors 50 such that the airbeams 41, 42, 43 are inflated between the brackets 50.

[0154] The tent canopy 30 is secured at a front edge to an edge 60 of the front cover section 22 which is opposite the hinged edge of the front cover section 22. The tent canopy 30 is also secured to the side edges 61 of the front cover section 22. Accordingly, the front cover section 22 is raised by the inflation of the front airbeams 41, 42, 43 due to the ends of the airbeams 41, 42, 43 being fixed relative to the trailer. Similarly, the rear cover section 24 is raised by the inflation of the rear airbeams 45, 46, 47 due to the ends of the airbeams 45, 46, 47 being fixed relative to the trailer. The inflation of the front airbeams 41, 42, 43 and the rear airbeams 45, 46, 47 causes the central section of the canopy 30 to also be raised. The central lateral airbeam 49 further raises and shape this central section of the canopy 30 to enable a central roof section to be formed.

[0155] The airbeams comprise outer sleeves which contain and encompass a respective inner tube which is inflated to provide the required rigidity. The outer sleeve comprises a fabric which is secured to or integral with the fabric of the canopy. For example, the outer sleeve may comprise a section of fabric which is stitched along both lateral edges to provide a passageway for containing an inner tube(s) or bladder.

[0156] Each airbeam may comprise a number of inner tubes which are connected together to form a contiguous inner tube for the airbeam. A valve may be provided at each end of each inner tube section. These valves may be opened or closed to allow air to pass therethrough. Accordingly, each inner tube section can be isolated. This can be useful if an inner tube section fails (for example, is punctured or is otherwise leaking). This means that the canopy 30 may still be adequately supported even though one (or more) airbeams (or inner tube sections) is punctured and is deflated. This also enables an inner tube section to be removed and replaced easily. Alternatively, the inner tube section can be repaired.

[0157] During assembly, the airbeams are all simultaneously inflated by a single compressed air source. All of the inner tube sections are interconnected and effectively form a single network for the comprised air. This enables a single compressed air source to be used without having to prove numerous inlet valves located around the airbeam structure. Valves may provide a weakness to the integrity of the air pressure and this therefore minimises this risk of failure at these potential weak locations.

[0158] In addition, the use of a single air source to supply the complete airbeam network also ensures that the canopy 30 is raised evenly. This is of particular importance with a folding camping 10. Folding campers have many permanently located fixtures and fittings on which the canopy 30 is initially stored and laid on top of and from which the canopy 30 is raised. Such fixtures and fittings provide and cause immovable potential obstructions to the canopy 30 as it is raised. In particular, if the canopy 30 is raised from a first longitudinal end then this will distort the canopy which is then likely to be snagged as the second longitudinal end is raised. Since the canopy 30 is raised automatically with the inflation of the airbeams, the continual inflation of the airbeams may cause the canopy to be ripped on such obstructions. In such an arrangement, it may be necessary to partially inflate some airbeams slowly and then partially inflate other airbeams slowly prior to fully inflating all of the airbeams or to perform a similar inflation sequence. This operation may need to be undertaken in a controlled manner with a user continually monitoring the inflation of the airbeams. Accordingly, such an operation is time consuming and requires several inlet valves and/or several compressed air sources. This problem is not as relevant or significant with a simple tent structure since a tent does not include a permanent floor with fixtures and fittings which act as obstacles.

[0159] The single compressed air source is provided by a compressor 70 which is located within a dedicated cabinet 72 or locker provided in a lateral side 91 of the trailer. This compressed air source is connected to, or connectable to, the leisure battery which is used to supply power to the folding camper and/or to any mover system. The compressor 70 is connected to or connectable to the network of airbeams at a single location. In some embodiments, the compressed air source may be permanently attached to the airbeam network. Accordingly, the compressor does not have to be connected to, and disconnected from, the airbeam network. This may decrease the risk of problems with, and failure of, an inlet valve.

[0160] To operate, a user can simply switch the compressor on and wait and watch as the airbeam network raises the canopy 30 to the required configuration. The airbeam network and/or compressor may comprise a pressure limiter to prevent over inflation and damage to the airbeam network. Accordingly, the user may not need to carefully monitor and decide when the network is sufficiently inflated.

[0161] As mentioned above, during inflation, the airbeams are raised and pivoted into position and then pressurised to fully elevate and raise the tent canopy 30 and to place the tent canopy 30 under the desired tension. This tension of the tent canopy 30 provides taut sides and a taut ceiling section around the complete accommodation area. The present invention does not require any guy (guide) ropes or any other tensioning means and the tent canopy is placed under the desired tension solely by the airbeam structure together with the securement of the canopy around the trailer.

[0162] Prior art inflated structures require further tensioning systems which complicates the erection of the structure and provides further mechanisms and components which may fail or interfere with the raising of the canopy. For example, guy (guide) ropes tend to get snagged or wrapped around components during the erection and these need to be carefully monitored during the raising procedure.

[0163] The airbeams support the canopy at a height which enables the folding camper 10 to provide an increased accommodation area whilst still enabling the folding camper 10 to be assembled and collapsed into a relatively compact box 18. In particular, the final height of the airbeams 41, 42, 43, 49, 45, 46, 47 is greater than half the longitudinal length of the box 18. For example, the overall length of all the airbeams 41, 42, 43, 49, 45, 46, 47 in the erect/assembled configuration may be 75% of the full length of the box or 150% of the length of the respective cover section.

[0164] The use of deflatable airbeams enables the folding camper to provide practically any headroom. A folding camper utilising rigid poles is generally restricted in height due to the folding mechanism of the poles into the trailer and the storage of the rigid poles for transportation. With rigid poles, the height may be restricted to being half the length of the trailer to enable both frames to be pivoted into or out of the trailer and to enable the poles to be stored in the trailer during transportation. Alternatively, the rigid poles may be modular or involve a complicated mechanism to enable the rigid poles to be collapsed into the trailer. Such mechanisms will increase the cost of production, the erection time and are also more likely to fail through use. The present invention thereby provides a simple, easy to use system which is also robust with use.

[0165] The airbeams 41, 42, 43, 45, 46, 47 in a frame 40, 44 may have differing lengths and the intermediate airbeam 42, 46 may be shorter than the front airbeam 41, 45 and/or the rear airbeam 43, 47.

[0166] The present invention provides deflatable airbeams which enables the accommodation area to be maximised and to also provide a simple and easy packaging method whilst maintaining all the interior accommodation area in a covered and sheltered state at all times during the assembly and packaging.

[0167] The airbeams 45, 46, 47 of the rear frame 36 extend from a first securement member 54 mounted on a first lateral side 91 of the box 18 to a second securement member mounted (not shown) on a second opposite lateral side of the box 18. Each airbeam 45, 46, 47 has two respective longitudinal ends which are permanently fixed to the respective securement members 54. In the present invention, these securement members orientate the airbeams and direct the inflation of the airbeams.

[0168] The securement members 54 comprise brackets mounted adjacent to the rear corners of the box 18 and also adjacent to the top edge of the box 18.

[0169] The tent canopy 30 is secured at a rear edge to an edge 66 of the rear cover section 24 which is opposite the hinged edge of the rear cover section 24. The tent canopy 30 is also secured to the side edges 65 of the rear cover section 24. Accordingly, as the rear cover section 24 is pivoted over the rear edge of the box 18, this movement causes the tent canopy 30 to locate in a ready to raise position.

[0170] During assembly, the airbeams 45, 46, 47 are simply inflated into position and this action fully elevates and raises the tent canopy 30. This action, together with the simultaneous elevation of the front frame 34, places the tent canopy 30 under the desired tension such that the tent canopy 30 provides taut sides and a taut ceiling section around the central and rear (and front) accommodation areas.

[0171] In the fully assembled and erect configuration, as shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the tent canopy 30 provides a spacious accommodation area with the lengths of the airbeams and the height of the tent canopy 30 being greater than 50% of the length of the box 18 of the trailer. As previously explained, this is achieved through the use of inflatable airbeams which are easily stored when deflated. The airbeams are in an inflated state for the assembled position and in a deflated (uninflated) state for packaging and storing.

[0172] The folding camper 10 in the assembled configuration provides a front accommodation area, a middle accommodation area and a rear accommodation area.

[0173] In order to pack and disassemble the folding camper the reverse of the assembly sequence is performed. The compressor 70 may have a suction mechanism or capability such that air can be forced out and withdrawn from the airbeams to provide the deflated configuration with the airbeams in a compact configuration. This prevent a user trying to manually squeeze air out of the elongate airbeams which would inevitably be difficult and leave significant amount of air within the network.

[0174] One advantage of the present invention is that the tent section of the folding camper 10 is attached to the top of the box section of the trailer part at all times. As a result of this permanent fixture, it means that when the trailer is opened out (by opening up the two lids that form the end beds) the tent opens out at the same time. This arrangement this makes erection very quick and means that the interior of the camper 10 is always under cover. For example, when arriving at a campsite, the trailer can be opened up with minimal effort and time so that the kids can be inside the camper and not get bored and/or wet.

[0175] The large curvature of the airbeams in the present invention is a very distinct feature compared to existing folding campers currently on the market that utilise straight poles with very angular tent construction.

[0176] The assembly/erection process (and subsequently the closure) could be done utilizing a single compressor potentially operated by remote control.

[0177] Overall the present invention provides a folding camper 10 is arranged to be assembled by simultaneously inflating a single airbeam network to put the canopy 30 in tension and to make the canopy 30 taut. The folding camper 10 does not require any auxiliary tensioning system or mechanism for the canopy since this is provided intrinsically by the connection of the lower edge of the canopy around the trailer and due to the geometry of the airbeam network and, in particular, the central longitudinal airbeam 80. The present invention uses a single airbeam network which simply inflates into position and maintains the interior of the folding camper 10 in a sheltered state. The final assembled height of the accommodation area is maximised through the use of deflatable airbeams which can be easily stored in the box 18.

[0178] As mentioned above, the preferred embodiment comprises curved/arcuate or hooped airbeams (lateral and/or longitudinal) since angled airbeams have a tendency to snag on the internal fixtures when erecting. Naturally this is not an issue with an awning or ground tent as there are no internal fittings on initial set up, but when on a folding camper it is a problem as internal fitting are ever present. The curved/hooped air poles inflate more evenly and rise in more uniformed manner, minimising snagging.

[0179] Also, unlike awnings and tents, a folding camper has no guy ropes and does not need pegging out, so our air tent design is anchored around the periphery of the trailer instead of being pegged out. However, with our hooped pole style of tent we have found that the design necessitates having to be pegged out to create tension in the roof. We have overcome this by incorporating a ridge pole into our design to negate it requiring pegging out to facilitate the tension in the roof.

[0180] Existing fixed pole design camper trailers require the tent to move in an awning channel when deploying, the canopy (awning) of the present invention can be static making it less susceptible to wear & tear.

[0181] Overall the hooped tent design maximizes internal volume, as well as maximising effectiveness against high winds as it is more aerodynamic. This is necessary as, unlike an awning, the tent is not supported by a solid structure from one side, and unlike a ground tent is not pegged out with guy ropes.

[0182] Integrating a compressor & power source into the trailer of the present invention means that cumbersome stand alone units don't have to be used to inflate the tent.

[0183] The chambers/sleeves for the air poles/chambers are stitched and/or integral with the main canopy along the full length.

[0184] In the preferred embodiment, the chambers of the airbeams all flow into each other at the intersections, to form cross shaped intersections.

[0185] The present invention uses a single compressor connector and inter-connectors which link all the air poles to enable all the air poles to be simultaneously inflated. Preferably the compressor will provide compressed air to a single inlet for the air pole framework

[0186] The airbeams include inner tubes which locate in sleeves to provide the air poles/airbeams. There are a number of inner tubes linked together by valve connectors to form each air pole/airbeam. At the interconnecting sections, i.e.

[0187] where the three lateral air poles appear to converge, there is a valve connector which links all the air poles to enable all the air poles to be simultaneously inflated. The valve connectors enable a particular section to be isolated if a leak/puncture occurs.

[0188] The canopy remains permanently secured to the storage box as the as the tent is assembled from the transportation configuration to the assembled configuration (and vice versa, i.e. from the assembled configuration back to the storage configuration). Specifically the canopy is secured to the box in the transportation configuration and the canopy is secured to the box in the assembled configuration such that the canopy (always/permanently) remains secured to the storage box as the tent is assembled from the transportation configuration to the assembled configuration.

[0189] In the assembled configuration the tent comprises a tensegrity structure. In particular (in the assembled configuration), the lateral inflatable members together with the canopy provide a stable three dimensional structure without any external structural components required to provide the required structural stability, i.e. guy ropes etc. are not a requirement.

[0190] As shown in FIGS. 4, 5, 6 and 7 the folding camper or camping assembly 2 may be arranged for use with different transportation and methods and configurations.

[0191] FIG. 4A to 4E show the assembly sequence for a camping assembly 2/folding camper 10 comprising a trailer which is arranged to be towed behind a motor vehicle.

[0192] FIG. 5A to 5E show the assembly sequence for a tent assembly 2 in which the storage box 3 is located on the roof of a van 4. The tent is arranged to fold outwardly from the roof of the vehicle 4 and operates in the same manner previously described above.

[0193] FIG. 6A to 6E show the assembly sequence for a tent assembly 2 in which the storage box is provided or mounted to the rear of a pick up truck 5. In this embodiment, only one of the cover folds out completely to provide a horizontal support surface. The other cover is arranged to pivot upwardly to a vertical position. The storage box 3 still provides a footprint but additionally provides a wall in this embodiment.

[0194] FIG. 7A to 7E shows the assembly sequence for a tent assembly 2 provided in a discrete box. The storage 3 box is located and supported directly on the ground. As above, the tent and the associated integral support structure concertina and fold outwardly form the box 3 and the box 3 subsequently provides the base footprint of the assembled tent.

[0195] The longitudinal support member 8 may be provided in different formats as shown in FIGS. 8 to 11.

[0196] FIG. 8 and FIG. 8B show a longitudinal support member 8 in the form of a tension strap 100 which is secured to the canopy 30 in order to help provide the required tension in the assembled canopy 30. The tension strap 100 may comprise a textile strap which extends in a longitudinal direction and in a central position between the front airbeam 41 of the front frame 34 and the rear airbeam 47 of the rear frame 36. The tension strap 100 may have one or more tension devices or mechanism to adjust the tension within the strap 100. For example, the tension strap 100 may be engaged with a buckle which is attached to an edge of the box 3. The tension strap 100 may have such a tension mechanism at each end thereof.

[0197] Alternatively, the necessary tension for the canopy 30 may be provided intrinsically by the material of the canopy 30 itself. The canopy 30 may also be tensioned in an adjustable way to the edge of the box 3 to alter the tension. The tension may help to maintain the space between the lateral support members and maintain the canopy 30 in a taut configuration.

[0198] FIGS. 9a and 9B show the longitudinal support member 8 in the form of an air pole or air beam 80 which is secured to the canopy 30 in order to help provide the required tension in the assembled canopy 30. The air beam 80 extends in a longitudinal direction and in a central position between the front airbeam 41 of the front frame 34 and the rear airbeam 47 of the rear frame 36. The air beam 80 is simply inflated to provide the required tension along the spine of the tent canopy 30.

[0199] FIGS. 10a and 10B show the longitudinal support member 8 in the form of a rigid pole 102 which is secured to the canopy 30 in order to help provide the required tension in the assembled canopy 30. The rigid pole 102 extends in a longitudinal direction and in a central position between the front airbeam 41 of the front frame 34 and the rear airbeam 47 of the rear frame 36. The rigid pole 102 may be formed in sections which extend between adjacent lateral air beams. The length of each section may be adjustable in order to maintain the correct tension and spacing between the lateral air beams. Each section may comprise a telescopic pole section including a clamping mechanism 104 to control the telescopic operation.

[0200] FIGS. 11a and 11B show the longitudinal support member 8 in the form of a flexi pole 106 which is secured to the canopy 30 in order to help provide the required tension in the assembled canopy 30. The flexi pole extends in a longitudinal direction and in a central position between the front airbeam 41 of the front frame 34 and the rear airbeam 47 of the rear frame 36. The flex pole 106 may be collapsible in sections for transportation/storage purposes. The flexi pole 106 may comprise a fibreglass tent pole.

[0201] As shown in FIGS. 8 to 11, the number of lateral support members may be altered. The support structure may comprise two lateral support members 41, 42 in the front frame 40 and two lateral support members 46, 47 in the rear frame 44. The support structure may include one (single) or more (a plurality) central lateral support members 108. This central lateral support member 108 may help to provide the required or desired height in the middle section of the tent.

[0202] In some embodiments the bed sections (and covers etc.) may open from the sides rather than the ends of the trailer tub (storage box). Furthermore some embodiments may have a single rather than a double fold out mechanism. The terms longitudinal and lateral are hereby made with reference to the extent and direction of the assembled tent such that the lateral support members extend across the tent and the longitudinal extends along the main length of the tent.