Portable, folding storage structures with carrying case and methods therefor

Abstract

Foldable storage structures and methods of erecting, contracting and storing such structures are described. The storage structure includes effectively rigid wall panels coupled by hinges to form an enclosure. The wall panels can be foldable and connected to a foldable floor panel assembly. The structure has a roof assembly which has a foldable panel assembly which mounts to or within a cover. The preferred cover has two layers to provide a flexible pouch in which the floor panels, wall panels and roof panels can be stored when folded into contracted conditions. The cover is configured to be releasably coupled to the top edge of the wall panels. Encircling straps may be used about the folded parts of the structure to serve as carrying handles. The cover preferably serves as both the roof skin when erected and as a carrying case when the structure is collapsed for portability or storage.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] This disclosure pertains to portable foldable storage structures and to methods for erecting, contracting and storing such structures. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] In society today, many individuals enjoy spending time traveling in recreational vehicles, campers, motor homes, trailers, and boats. In fact, many people live in such vehicles on either a full-time or on a part-time basis. Unfortunately, it is common for such vehicles to have limited storage space, and many personal items are therefore stored or stowed either within or attached to such vehicles. [0003] This lack of adequate storage creates many problems. For example, when stopping in campgrounds, recreational vehicle parks, or in other locations, many individuals would like to store their personal items outside of their vehicles. However, the rules and regulations of many campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks do not allow the storage of personal items in an open manner. Therefore, there ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, it is common for such vehicles to have limited storage space, and many personal items are therefore stored or stowed either within or attached to such vehicles.

This lack of adequate storage creates many problems.

However, the rules and regulations of many campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks do not allow the storage of personal items in an open manner.

Although some of these structures can be used for storage, such structures tend to be bulky, heavy, and difficult to erect.

Such structures have not typically been sufficiently lightweight and foldable or collapsible to be easily transported and / or stored.

Providing such a structure which is weather tight is difficult and even more so while maintaining portability.

Thus, the prior art structures have various shortcomings and have failed to adequately resolve some of the problems faced by those who would benefit from portable and collapsible storage structures.

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