Combination Backpack and Inflatable Mattress

Abstract

The present invention is an improved recreational carrier combination such as a backpack and inflatable mattress that may be used on camping, hiking, or other recreational trips. The backpack and inflatable mattress includes one or more internal compartments for storing clothing, food, and other items. In addition, the backpack has a portable inflatable air mattress and air compressor or pump for filling the portable air mattress. The backpack further includes a rechargeable battery that may be externally charged, or alternatively, it can be charged by built-in solar panels. The backpack and inflatable mattress combination includes a set of shoulder straps for carrying the device, as well as, a handle and wheels for rolling the device. Finally, the device includes a protective cover that covers the inflatable bed when it is inflated and ready for use.

Claims

1. A recreational accessory comprising: a carrier having an outer surface and at least one compartment having an opening for providing access to an interior area; at least one of a handle or straps attached to the carrier; and an inflatable mattress disposed within the interior area of the at least one compartment, wherein the inflatable mattress is repositionable between a first position and a second position.

2. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 1, wherein the carrier further comprises an air compressor for inflating the inflatable mattress.

3. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 1, wherein the first position is a deflated position, and the second position is an inflated position.

4. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 2 further comprising a rechargeable battery for powering the air compressor.

5. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 4 further comprising a solar panel for supplying power to the rechargeable battery.

6. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 1 further comprising at least one LED light.

7. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 1 further comprising a protective cover for use over the inflatable mattress, wherein the protective cover comprises a retractable frame.

8. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 7, wherein the protective cover provides protection against at least one of a sunlight, an insect and a moisture.

9. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 7, wherein the protective cover comprises an LED light mounted to the retractable frame.

10. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 7, wherein the protective cover is comprised of a mesh material.

11. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 7, wherein the carrier comprises a second compartment.

12. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 7, wherein the protective cover extends over an entire length of the inflatable mattress.

13. A backpack comprising: a compartment sized and configured to house an inflatable mattress; a second compartment sized and configured to house at least one of a food, a clothing, a tool or another accessory; an air compressor; a rechargeable battery connected to the air compressor; and a protective cover having a retractable frame.

14. The backpack as recited in claim 13 further comprising a LED light attached to the retractable frame.

15. The backpack as recited in claim 13, wherein the protective cover extends over a length of the inflatable mattress when the inflatable mattress is inflated.

16. The backpack as recited in claim 13, wherein the protective cover protects again a sunlight, an insect and a moisture.

17. The backpack as recited in claim 13, wherein the retractable frame is comprised of an aluminum or a plurality of PVC pipes.

18. The backpack as recited in claim 13 further comprising a solar panel connected to the rechargeable battery for recharging the rechargeable battery.

19. A backpack and mattress combination comprising: a backpack having a compartment with an interior area an inflatable mattress having at least one air vent; an air compressor for use in inflating the inflatable mattress; a rechargeable battery for providing power for the air compressor; a solar panel for charging the rechargeable battery; and a protective cover having a retractable frame, wherein the protective cover extends over a length of the inflatable mattress when the inflatable mattress is in an inflated position.

20. The backpack and mattress combination as recited in claim 19, wherein the protective cover provides protection from at least one of a sunlight, an insect and a moisture.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the improved backpack and inflatable mattress combination of the present invention having a privacy cover as per the disclosed design with the air mattress inflated and ready for use;

[0022] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design now in a transport mode similar to that of traditional luggage;

[0023] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design and now placed on its side prior to unrolling the inflatable air mattress;

[0024] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design with air mattress inflated prior to extending the retractable frame and installing the privacy cover;

[0025] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a second preferred embodiment of the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress of the present invention having a canopy-style cover as per the disclosed design with the air mattress inflated and ready for use;

[0026] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a third preferred embodiment of the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress of the present invention having a tubular mesh-style cover as per the disclosed design with the air mattress inflated and ready for use.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

[0028] As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an improved recreational accessory carrier combination such as a backpack and inflatable mattress that has storage space inside the backpack for an inflatable mattress and other items. In addition, there is a long-felt need for an improved recreational accessory carrier combination such as a backpack and inflatable mattress that has a built-in air compressor/pump for filling the inflatable air mattress. Also, there is a long-felt need for an improved recreational accessory carrier combination or backpack device that has a rechargeable battery, which can be charged externally or by solar panels, for operating an air compressor/pump, LED lights, and other electrical devices. Finally, there is a long-felt need for an improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress that has a sunscreen, rain shield or privacy covering for placing over the air mattress when it is inflated and ready for use.

[0029] The present invention, an improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress, includes one or more internal compartments for storing clothing, food, tools, accessories and other items that are commonly taken on trips or used for recreational purposes. In addition, the improved recreational accessory carrier or backpack device includes a portable inflatable air mattress that can be stored within an internal compartment when it is not in use. The inflatable mattress is inflatable from a first position to a second position with the second position being larger than the first position and the first position being of a size and dimension to fit within the compartment of the backpack or carrier. The inflatable mattress may also have one or more air vents to allow the air mattress to be quickly and easily deflated. Additionally, the improved carrier or backpack device includes an air compressor or pump for filling the portable air mattress. The improved carrier or backpack device may further include one or more covers for placing over the air mattress when it is inflated and ready for use. In one exemplary embodiment, a privacy cover or tent can be configured as having two side surfaces and a top surface positioned above and around the air mattress as tent around the user. In a second exemplary embodiment, a canopy-style cover can be configured as a flat surface positioned above the air mattress that can act as a sunscreen or rain shield for the user. Finally, in a third exemplary embodiment, a tubular mesh-style covering can extend the length of the air mattress and may act as insect barrier to the user, thus allowing air flow to keep the user comfortable.

[0030] The improved backpack device includes a rechargeable battery that may be externally charged, or alternatively, it can be charged by built-in solar panels that are affixed to the exterior surface(s) of one of the covers for the air mattress as previously described. In addition to providing power for the air compressor/pump, the rechargeable battery can also be connected to one or more LED lights for luminating the area around the air mattress and inside the storage compartments in the backpack portion of the improved device. The cover for the air mattress also includes one or more speakers for connecting to a smart phone, thus allowing music, sounds or alerts to be played through the speakers. The smartphone may contain one or more downloaded applications to allow for different communications and messages to be played through the speaker such as distress calls, location information, noises to scare off wildlife or other useful verbal commands or audible tones.

[0031] Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the improved recreational accessory combination or backpack and inflatable mattress of the present invention having a privacy or protective cover as per the disclosed design with the air mattress inflated and ready for use. The improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000 is shown with the backpack 100 laying on its side. The backpack or carrier 100 has an outer surface 111 made from a durable material such as canvas, nylon, denim, or other materials. The inflatable air mattress 200 is shown in the inflated position adjacent to backpack 100. The embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1, includes a privacy or protective cover 300 sized to create a tent or cover over the air mattress 200. Having an inclined top surface 322 and side surfaces 325, the privacy or protective cover 300 extends the entire length of the mattress from the foot end of the air mattress 200 to the head end of the air mattress 200 where it attaches to the retractable frame 310. The privacy cover 300 is preferably made from nylon, denim, canvas or other durable material. The cover, mattress, backpack or carrier may all be made from the same material and/or colors so that they all match or they may be made from different materials and colors depending on the preference of the user. The retractable frame 310, shown in the extended position in FIG. 1, is preferably made from lightweight tubular metal such as aluminum, PVC pipes or other material. The retractable frame 310 can be stored within opening 110 of the backpack or carrier 100. In the stowed position, the retractable frame 310 fits within the backpack 100 and is held securely in place by flap 315 and closure 317.

[0032] The improved backpack or carrier 1000 includes a rechargeable battery 470 (see FIG. 4) that may be externally charged via a charging port 30, or alternatively, it can be charged by solar panels 330 which may be integrated with the invention or may be a separate module that can be positioned or receive sunlight. If the solar panels are integral with the invention, the panels are affixed to the top surface 322 and/or side surfaces 325 of the privacy cover 300. In addition to providing power for the air compressor/pump 450 (see FIG. 4), the rechargeable battery 470 (see FIG. 4) can also be connected to one or more LED lights 340 for luminating the area around the air mattress 200 and inside the storage compartments in the backpack 100 of the improved device. The privacy cover 300 for the air mattress 200 also includes one or more speakers 350 for connecting to a smart phone, thus allowing music, sounds, alerts or other audible information to be played through the speakers 350. Both the LED lights 340 and speaker 350 may be attached to the retractable frame 310 or may be disposed elsewhere as needed on the carrier or mattress.

[0033] The retractable handle 10 can be used for pulling the backpack or carrier when it is in a transport mode along the ground in an upright position via wheels, skids or slides 20 attached to the bottom side of the backpack 100. Feet 25 are mounted on each corner opposite from wheels 20 on the bottom surface of the backpack 100 and allows the backpack 100 to stand upright. The backpack 100 in transport mode will further be described in FIG. 2.

[0034] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention 1000 shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design now in a transport mode similar to that of traditional luggage. In this configuration, the inflatable air mattress 200 and the privacy cover 300 are stowed in the interior area of one of the internal compartments 400 of the backpack or carrier 100 with each of the compartments having a fastener to allow access to an interior area of the compartments. Wheels 20 are preferably made from polyurethane roller wheels and feet 25 are preferably made from a hard and durable plastic. The retractable handle 10 is constructed from a tubular metal and may include either a plastic or rubber grip for comfort and sized to fit the user's hand.

[0035] The Backpack or carrier 100 includes a plurality of internal compartments 400 for storing clothing, food, tools, accessories and other items that are commonly taken on trips or used for recreational activities. The items are kept secure and dry by closures 417 that tightly seal the flap 415 on the backpack or carrier 100. Closures 417 such as zipper, hook and loop, magnets, snaps, or the like secure and seal each of the internal compartments 400. The improved backpack device 1000 includes an inflatable air mattress 200 that is currently stowed within its internal compartment 400 behind the flap 215, which is sealed and secured by closure 217. The charging port 30 is preferably located on either the top or sides of the backpack 100 for attaching to an external power source.

[0036] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention 1000 shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design now placed on its side prior to unrolling the inflatable air mattress 200. After opening the closure 217, the air mattress 200 can be unrolled or unfolded from within its internal compartment 400.

[0037] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention 1000 shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design with the air mattress 200 inflated prior to extending the retractable frame 310 and installing the privacy cover or shield 300. When the user decides to setup the inflatable air mattress 200, the backpack 100 is first turned onto its side. Then, the user opens the closure 217 for the flap 215 to gain access to the internal compartment 400 containing the air mattress 200. The user then reaches into opening 219 and unrolls or unfolds the air mattress 200. Next, the user opens the flap 415 containing the air compressor/pump 450 and activates the air compressor/pump 450 by turning on the power switch. The rechargeable battery unit 470 provides the necessary power for the air compressor/pump 450. When the air mattress 200 is sufficiently inflated, the user turns off the air compressor 450. Opening a separate flap 315, the retractable frame 310 can now be extended for the privacy cover 300, which is stored within one of the internal compartments 400 within the backpack, 100 as previously described in the description for FIG. 1. After setting-up the privacy cover 300, which in this embodiment of the present invention resembles a tent, the user is now ready to use the air mattress 200. Air vents 431 and 433 may be provided to deflate the air mattress or to adjust the firmness of the mattress after inflating.

[0038] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a second preferred embodiment of the improved recreational carrier combination or backpack and inflatable mattress of the present invention, having a canopy-style cover as per the disclosed design with the air mattress inflated and ready for use. The improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 2000 is shown with the backpack 2100 laying on its side. The inflatable air mattress 2200 is shown in the inflated position adjacent to the backpack 2100. The embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 5 includes a canopy-style cover 2300 sized to create a top-only sunscreen over air mattress 2200. Having an inclined top surface 2322, the canopy-style cover 2300 extends from the foot-end of the air mattress 2200 to the head end of the air mattress 2200 where it attaches to the retractable frame 2310. The canopy-style cover 2300 is preferably made from nylon, denim, canvas, or other durable material. The retractable frame 2310, shown in the extended position in FIG. 5, is preferably made from lightweight tubular metal such as aluminum or PVC pipes. Solar panels (not shown) may also be affixed to the exterior surface of top surface 2322 or may be provided as a module that can be repositioned for easy use for recharging the rechargeable battery as previously described in the description for FIG. 1.

[0039] The retractable frame 2310 can be stored within the backpack 2100 as previously described in the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 1. Feet or skids 2025 are mounted on each corner opposite from the wheels 2020 on the bottom surface of the backpack 2100 and allows the backpack 2100 to stand upright. The air mattress 2200 can be deflated and rolled-up or folded up and placed back into the backpack 2100 through an opening 2217. The canopy-style cover 2300, air compressor and rechargeable battery (not shown in FIG. 5, but previously described herein) are also stowed within internal compartments of the backpack 2100. The backpack 2100 in transport mode resembles the embodiment shown and described in FIG. 2.

[0040] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a third preferred embodiment of the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress of the present invention having a tubular mesh-style cover as per the disclosed design with the air mattress inflated and ready for use. The improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 3000 is shown with the backpack 3100 standing upright. Alternately, the backpack 3100 may be also positioned on its side since this embodiment of the present invention includes a free-standing tubular mesh-style cover 3300. The inflatable air mattress 3200 is shown in the inflated position adjacent to the backpack 3100. The free-standing tubular mesh-style cover is sized to go over and around the air mattress 3200. Wire frames 3310 provide support for the mesh material 3322 to form a tunnel large enough for the user to lay down on the air mattress 3222. The mesh material 3322 is preferably made from a nylon weave netting material that permits air flow, but also serves as an insect barrier. The user may enter and exit the tubular mesh-style cover by opening the closure 3317, which may be a zipper, magnets, or snaps. The operation of the air mattress 3200 and backpack 3100 is similar to the previous embodiments described herein. Finally, in a further embodiment, the device may further comprise a commercially available tracking device such as a GPS transmitter, RFID tag, etc. to enable a user to track the location of the device.

[0041] Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress”, “improved backpack device”, and “improved backpack” are interchangeable and refer to the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and 3000 of the present invention.

[0042] Notwithstanding the forgoing, the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and 3000 of the present invention can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that it accomplishes the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration and material of each of the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and 3000 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and designs of the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and 3000 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of each of the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and 3000 are important design parameters for user convenience, the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and 3000 may be of any size that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

[0043] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

[0044] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.