Camping accessory inflation system

Abstract

A camping assembly (10) is provided that includes an awning (18) releasably secured to a side of a motor home despite in other embodiments the awning (18) may be releasably secured to a side of a tent / trailer tent / folding camping car. The awning includes a ceiling and a network of inflatable air rods (26). The awning may be inflated by a removable pump or by an embedded pump or by air provided from another inflatable camping structure. The awning includes a donor valve (16). The donor valve is arranged to inflate the camping accessory (20, 22, 24) by supplying a volume of air from the air rod to the camping accessory. In this manner, the camping attachment can expand very quickly, and the removal of air does not significantly affect the structural stability of the awning. This provides an easily available and accessible air source.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system of inflatable camping accessories / devices and a method of providing a camping accessory inflation system. In particular, the present invention relates to a camping assembly defining an interior sheltered area and a method of inflating a camping accessory. Background Art

[0002] The installation of tents, folding campers (such as camping trailers), and camping accessories (such as awnings or gazebos) can be complicated or time-consuming, for example, when these structures must be assembled from multiple parts. These parts may be easily damaged during assembly or use, such as by impact or high winds. To address these issues, these structures can include inflatable components that allow the structure to be erected by inflating the inflatable components using a pressurized air source (such as a pump). With this arrangement, minimal assembly of parts may be required.

[0003] A disadvantage of using an inflatable component is that the user must carry a pump or other source of pressurized air to the camping site. For larger inflatable structures (such as an inflatable family tent), a manually operated pump may not be practical, which means that a powered (such as an electric) pump and power source is also required, which may be cumbersome and / or noisy. In addition, where multiple inflatable structures are used, a separate source of pressurized air is required, which must be compatible to connect to each inflatable structure in turn.

[0004] It is against this background that the present invention has been devised.It is an object of the present invention to overcome at least one of the problems associated with the prior art, whether referred to herein or otherwise. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a camping assembly comprising an inflatable camping structure comprising a network of inflatable air poles, the inflatable camping structure comprising a donor valve on the air poles for releasing air from the inflatable camping structure; and

[0006] Wherein the supply valve is configured to be connected to an inflation valve of an inflatable camping accessory so as to inflate the inflatable camping accessory with air from the inflatable camping structure.

[0007] Preferably, the inflatable camping structure is in a (fully) inflated configuration and the inflatable camping accessory is in a (fully) deflated configuration and inflation of the inflatable camping accessory is achieved solely by air contained within the inflatable camping accessory without any further air being introduced into the inflatable camping accessory, e.g. from a pump and through an inflation valve of the inflatable camping structure.

[0008] The bivouac assembly may include a canopy.

[0009] The camping assembly may include a main camping structure defining an interior sheltered area.

[0010] The camping assembly (and / or the main camping structure) may include an awning. The camping assembly (and / or the main camping structure) may include one of an awning, a tent, a trailer tent, and a gazebo.

[0011] The camping assembly may include a main camping structure and a primary camping structure, wherein the primary camping structure includes one of an RV, a tent, and a trailer tent. Preferably, the camping assembly may include a main camping structure including an awning and a primary camping structure, wherein the primary camping structure includes one of an RV, a tent, and a trailer tent.

[0012] The awning may be releasably attachable to the primary camping structure.

[0013] The main camping structure (awning) may include a primary inflatable camping structure including a first interconnecting valve and a main camping structure including a second interconnecting valve for defining an air passage between the primary inflatable camping structure and the main camping structure (awning).

[0014] Preferably, one of the primary inflatable bivouac structure and the main bivouac structure (awning) is arranged to inflate the other of the primary inflatable bivouac structure and the main bivouac structure (awning).

[0015] The primary camping structure may include an inflatable network of air poles and may include a canopy. The primary camping structure may include a folding camping tent including a trailer, an inflatable network of air poles and may include a canopy. The trailer may include a pump, and preferably an electric pump.

[0016] The main camping structure and preferably the awning may comprise a network of inflatable air poles, and may also comprise a canopy.

[0017] The primary camping structure may include multiple donor valves. The main camping structure (awning) may include multiple donor valves.

[0018] The inflatable camping accessories may include one of a gazebo, a storm shelter, an auxiliary tent, an inflatable paddling pool, an awning, an inflatable ball, an inflatable mattress and / or an inflatable seat (such as a chair or a sofa).

[0019] The first interconnection valve and the second interconnection valve may form an air passage with a control member located therein, and in the air passage, the control member may be moved between an open position and a closed position to selectively allow or prevent air from flowing between the primary camping structure and the main camping structure (awning). The control member may be manually moved between the open position and the closed position.

[0020] The primary inflatable bivouac structure may provide a reservoir for storing air when inflated, such that when a main bivouac structure (awning) is connected to the primary inflatable bivouac structure, the main bivouac structure is at least partially inflated by air stored in the primary inflatable bivouac structure.

[0021] The main camping structure (awning) may be substantially fully inflated only by the air stored in the primary inflatable camping structure. The main camping structure (awning) may be partially inflated by the air stored in the primary inflatable camping structure.

[0022] The primary inflatable camping structure may include an inflatable support structure. The primary inflatable camping structure may include a tent, another awning or a gazebo. The primary inflatable camping structure may define a shelter. The primary inflatable camping structure may include an inflatable camping tent or awning. The primary inflatable structure may include a camping trailer tent.

[0023] The camping assembly may include an inflatable camping accessory. The camping assembly may include a plurality of inflatable camping accessories. When present, the or each inflatable camping accessory may include an inflation valve configured to be connected to a donor valve to inflate the inflatable camping accessory.

[0024] Inflatable camping accessories may include gazebos, storm shelters, auxiliary tents, inflatable paddling pools, inflatable balls, inflatable mattresses, and / or inflatable seating (eg, chairs or sofas).

[0025] The primary inflatable bivouac structure may include multiple donor valves. The main bivouac structure (awning) may include multiple donor valves. In this way, the donor valves may be easily accessible to the user at different locations.

[0026] The or each donor valve may comprise a one-way valve.

[0027] The or each supply valve may comprise a pressure relief valve. The pressure relief valve may be arranged to maintain a minimum pressure within the inflatable bivouac structure. Preferably, above the minimum pressure, the pressure relief valve may enable air to be transferred from the inflatable bivouac structure to the inflatable bivouac accessory.

[0028] The main camping structure (awning) may include multiple donor valves.

[0029] The or each donor valve may be adjustable.The or each donor valve may comprise a control valve configured to regulate the flow of gas through the donor valve.

[0030] The camping assembly may include a pressurized air source configured to inflate the main camping structure (awning) and / or the primary inflatable camping structure. The pressurized air source may include a compressor, a pump, or a compressed air source, such as a compressed air tank. The camping assembly may include (only / solely) a single pressurized air source.

[0031] The primary inflatable bivouac structure may include an air source. For example, the primary inflatable bivouac structure may include a pump. The pump may be integral to the primary inflatable bivouac structure.

[0032] The or each inflation valve may be connected to the donor valve by a connector or an adapter. The or each inflation valve may be connected to the donor valve by a connection means (pneumatically). The connection means may comprise a threaded connection. The connection means may comprise a quick-connect coupling. The connection means may comprise a flexible connector, such as a hose. The or each inflation valve may be directly or rigidly connected to the donor valve. The adapter may provide a rigid connection.

[0033] The camping assembly may comprise a first inflatable volume and a second inflatable volume. Preferably, the camping assembly comprises a total inflatable volume. The total inflatable volume may comprise the volume of the main camping structure (awning) and may also comprise the volume of the primary inflatable camping structure. The first inflatable volume may comprise the inflatable volume of the main camping structure (awning) and may also comprise the inflatable volume of the primary camping structure. The second inflatable volume may comprise the inflatable volume of the or each inflatable camping accessory. The initial total volume may be (substantially) equal to the final total volume so that no additional air is introduced. For example, a pump or other inflation device is not used to introduce any additional air.

[0034] The ratio of the first inflated volume to the second inflated volume may be 1:1 or greater, preferably 2:1 or greater, more preferably 3:1 or greater. The ratio may be 4:1 or greater. In some examples, the ratio may be 5:1 or greater. In some examples, the ratio may be 10:1 or greater.

[0035] Preferably, the or each inflatable camping accessory has an inflated volume that is less than the inflated volume of the main camping structure (awning) and / or the primary inflatable camping structure. Preferably, the or each inflatable camping accessory has an inflated volume that is less than 50%, preferably 25% (more preferably less than 20%) of the inflated volume of the main camping structure (awning) and / or the primary inflatable camping structure.

[0036] Preferably, the inflated volume of the main camping structure (sunshade) is less than the inflated volume of the primary inflatable camping structure. The inflated volume of the main camping structure (sunshade) may be less than 50% of the inflated volume of the primary inflatable camping structure.

[0037] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of inflating an inflatable camping accessory with air from a camping assembly, the camping assembly comprising an inflatable camping structure, wherein the inflatable camping structure comprises:

[0038] A network of inflatable air rods,

[0039] a donor valve on an air pole for releasing air from the inflatable bivouac structure; and

[0040] wherein the donor valve is configured to be connected to an inflation valve of an inflatable camping accessory so as to inflate the inflatable camping accessory with air from the inflatable camping structure;

[0041] The method includes:

[0042] connecting the inflation valve of the inflatable camping accessory to the donor valve of the camping assembly; and

[0043] Release the air from the main camper assembly.

[0044] Preferably, the inflatable camping structure is in a (fully) inflated configuration and the inflatable camping accessory is in a (fully) deflated configuration, and the method comprises inflating the inflatable camping accessory solely with air contained within the inflatable camping accessory without introducing any further air into the inflatable camping structure, e.g. from a pump and through an inflation valve of the inflatable camping structure.

[0045] The method may include regulating the supply of air from the inflatable camping structure to the inflatable camping accessories using a pressure relief valve. The method may include maintaining the pressure in the inflatable camping structure above a predetermined minimum value, which may be required to maintain the structural integrity of the inflatable camping structure. This may prevent the inflatable camping structure from collapsing due to the supply of air to the inflatable camping accessories.

[0046] The bivouac assembly may define an interior sheltered area. The bivouac assembly may include a canopy.

[0047] Preferably, the camping assembly comprises:

[0048] a primary inflatable bivouac structure including a primary supply valve configured to release air from said primary inflatable bivouac structure;

[0049] a primary (secondary) inflatable bivouac structure comprising an inflation valve for inflating said primary (secondary) inflatable bivouac structure, wherein said inflation valve is configured to be connected to said primary supply valve so as to inflate said primary (secondary) inflatable bivouac structure with air from said primary inflatable bivouac structure, and

[0050] wherein the bivouac assembly includes a secondary supply valve for releasing air from the bivouac assembly, and

[0051] The method includes connecting an inflation valve of an inflatable camping accessory to a secondary supply valve of a camping assembly; and

[0052] Release air from camper components.

[0053] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a camping assembly including an interior sheltered area, the camping assembly comprising:

[0054] a primary inflatable bivouac structure including a primary supply valve configured to release air from said primary inflatable bivouac structure;

[0055] a secondary inflatable bivouac structure comprising an inflation valve for inflating the secondary inflatable bivouac structure, wherein the inflation valve is configured to be connected to the primary supply valve so as to inflate the secondary inflatable bivouac structure with air from the primary inflatable bivouac structure,

[0056] wherein the bivouac assembly includes a secondary supply valve for releasing air from the bivouac assembly; and

[0057] The secondary supply valve is configured to be connected to an inflation valve of an inflatable camping accessory to inflate the inflatable camping accessory with air from the camping assembly.

[0058] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of inflating an inflatable camping accessory with air from a camping assembly, the camping assembly defining an interior sheltered area and comprising:

[0059] a primary inflatable bivouac structure including a primary supply valve configured to release air from said primary inflatable bivouac structure;

[0060] a secondary inflatable bivouac structure comprising an inflation valve for inflating the secondary inflatable bivouac structure, wherein the inflation valve is configured to connect to the primary supply valve to inflate the secondary inflatable bivouac structure with air from the primary inflatable bivouac structure, and

[0061] wherein the bivouac assembly includes a secondary supply valve for releasing air from the bivouac assembly,

[0062] The method includes:

[0063] connecting the inflation valve of the inflatable camping accessory to the secondary supply valve of the camping assembly; and

[0064] Release air from camper components.

[0065] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system of an inflatable device for camping, comprising:

[0066] a primary inflatable device including a primary supply valve configured to release air from said primary inflatable device;

[0067] at least one secondary inflatable device including an inflation valve for inflating the secondary inflatable device and a secondary supply valve for releasing air from the secondary inflatable device;

[0068] wherein the inflation valve of the secondary inflatable device is configured to be connected to the primary supply valve for inflating the secondary inflatable device with air from the primary inflatable device;

[0069] The secondary supply valve is configured to be connected to an inflation valve of an inflatable device for inflating the inflatable device.

[0070] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a camping assembly defining an interior sheltered area, the camping assembly comprising:

[0071] a primary inflatable bivouac structure including a primary supply valve configured to release air from said primary inflatable bivouac structure;

[0072] A secondary inflatable bivouac structure includes an inflation valve for inflating the secondary inflatable bivouac structure, wherein the inflation valve is configured to connect to the primary supply valve to inflate the secondary inflatable bivouac structure with air from the primary inflatable bivouac structure.

[0073] Primary camping structures can include any of an RV, tent, or trailer tent.

[0074] The bivouac assembly may include a main bivouac structure defining an interior sheltered area, and the bivouac assembly may include a primary bivouac structure including a primary shelter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0075] The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0076] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a camping assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0077] Figure 2Ais a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve according to the present invention;

[0078] Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve according to the present invention;

[0079] Figure 3A is a perspective cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve according to the present invention;

[0080] Figure 3B is a perspective cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve according to the present invention; and

[0081] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0082] The present invention provides a camping assembly 10 that includes a primary inflatable camping structure (folding trailer tent 12), a primary (or secondary) inflatable camping structure (awning 18), and inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24. In particular, the camping assembly 10 provides a system of inflatable devices for camping.

[0083] The term camping assembly is defined to include camping and / or RV equipment. In special cases, the camping assembly may include an RV, a tent and / or a trailer tent or a combination of these.

[0084] The system is configured so that air can be shared between inflatable devices by providing a supply valve for releasing air from at least some of the inflatable devices. Each supply valve can be connected to an inflation valve for inflating another inflatable device. These devices can be pneumatically connected to each other. In this way, by connecting the devices together, one or more of the devices can be inflated using air from another of the already inflated devices. The advantage of this arrangement is that only a single pressurized air source (e.g., a pump) is required, which can be integrated and / or embedded with one of the inflatable devices. No separate pressurized air source is required, which may be inconvenient to store and transport. Instead, a primary inflatable camping structure (which may include an air source such as a built-in pump) can provide an air reservoir, and other inflatable devices can be inflated using the air reservoir. In this way, once the primary inflatable camping structure is inflated, the main camping structure or awning can be inflated, and can be at least partially inflated using only the air stored in the primary inflatable camping structure without further use of a pump. The primary inflatable camping structure or awning (main camping structure) can then be used in a similar manner for inflatable camping accessories. The inflatable device may include an inflatable element, such as an air pole.As mentioned above, the awning in this example is the primary camping structure, while the associated tent (or RV) would be the primary camping structure.

[0085] In a preferred embodiment, the inflatable camping structure is initially in a (fully) inflated configuration and the inflatable camping accessory is in a (fully) deflated configuration, and inflation of the inflatable camping accessory is achieved solely by air contained within the inflatable camping accessory, without (in the absence of) any further air being introduced into the inflatable camping structure (e.g. from a pump and through an inflation valve of the inflatable camping structure).

[0086] In a first preferred embodiment, the camping assembly 10 includes an awning 18 that is releasably secured to the side of an RV, although in other embodiments the awning 18 may be releasably secured to the side of a tent / trailer tent / folding camper. The awning 18 includes a canopy and a network of inflatable air rods 26. The awning 18 may be inflated by a removable pump or by an embedded pump or by air provided from another inflatable camping structure. The awning 18 includes a supply valve 16. The supply valve 16 is arranged to inflate the camping accessories 20, 22, 24 by supplying a volume of air from the air rods 26 to the camping accessories 20, 22, 24. In this way, the camping accessories can be inflated very quickly, and the removal of air does not significantly affect the structural stability of the awning 18. This provides an easily accessible and accessible air source, which is advantageous when camping, as the power supply to an electric pump may be unstable and limited. In addition, this also reduces the number of devices and equipment required. The air source can be replenished when convenient and / or necessary.

[0087] A more complex arrangement of another preferred form of camping assembly will now be described in more detail. In this arrangement, the awning 18 is attached to another inflatable camping structure 12. In addition, the awning 18 and the inflatable camping structure 12 are connected by an interconnecting valve 28 so that air can be provided between the awning 18 and the inflatable camping structure 12.

[0088] In another preferred embodiment, the camping assembly includes an awning 18 (primary camping structure) and a primary inflatable camping structure, which includes a folding camper set in a trailer. The folding camper includes a network of inflatable poles for supporting a canopy to define an interior sheltered area. The trailer can provide a rigid floor, which can also be raised from the ground. The awning 18 also includes a network of inflatable poles to support the canopy, which again defines an interior sheltered area. Finally, the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 are typically smaller (smaller in volume) camping equipment / devices / accessories, and can include, for example, one or more of the following: a gazebo, a storm shelter, an auxiliary tent, an inflatable paddling pool, an awning, an inflatable ball, an inflatable mattress and / or an inflatable seat (such as a chair or sofa).

[0089] Figure 1is a schematic diagram of a camping assembly 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Camping assembly 10 includes a plurality of inflatable devices. In this embodiment, the plurality of inflatable devices include a plurality of inflatable devices for camping. The plurality of inflatable devices include a primary inflatable camping structure, an awning (main camping structure), and a plurality of inflatable accessories. In this embodiment, the primary inflatable camping structure includes a tent 12. Tent 12 includes an inflatable element 14 (air poles) that provides an inflatable frame or support structure for tent 12. In this embodiment, inflatable element 14 is generally tubular. In other embodiments, the primary inflatable camping structure may be an awning, a gazebo, or a sunshade.

[0090] When inflated, the primary inflatable bivouac structure provides a reservoir of air under pressure that can be used to inflate the awning 18 (the main bivouac structure). The primary inflatable bivouac structure may include a source of pressurized air ( Figure 1 In some embodiments, the primary inflatable bivouac structure may include a pump or compressor, which may be integral to the primary inflatable bivouac structure. In some embodiments, the primary inflatable bivouac structure may include a pump module (e.g., as further described below) connected to or integral to an inflatable element of the primary inflatable bivouac structure.

[0091] The primary inflatable camping structure includes at least one inlet or inflation valve (not shown) for inflating the primary inflatable camping structure. In other embodiments, where the primary inflatable camping structure comprises a trailer tent or camping trailer, the source of pressurized air may be mounted in or built into the trailer. With the arrangement described herein, the source of pressurized air does not need to be readily accessible to a user, as other devices may be inflated by connecting them to the supply valve 16. Thus, a pump or other air source may be more efficiently integrated with a stand-alone tent or trailer tent, for example to improve space usage or weight distribution in the tent or trailer. Conveniently, the air source may be powered by a power source of the trailer or tent.

[0092] The primary inflatable camping structure and awning 18 may include at least one primary supply valve 16. Figure 1As shown, the tent 12 includes two supply valves 16 and the awning includes one supply valve 16. The supply valve 16 is disposed on one of the inflatable elements 14, 26 (e.g., an inflatable pole) supporting the tent 12 or the awning 18. In other embodiments, more or fewer supply valves 16 may be provided. For example, the primary inflatable camping structure includes an inflatable support structure having one or more upright supports or legs, and the supply valve 16 may be disposed on one or more of the legs. It should be understood that each supply valve 16 need not be located near the air source for inflating the tent 12. In this way, each supply valve 16 can be positioned in a convenient location for user access, and the air source can be positioned elsewhere, for example to ensure that the air source is concealed or safe and / or to reduce noise from the air source.

[0093] Each donor valve 16 is arranged to be connected to one of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 for inflating the inflatable camping accessories with air from the awning 18 and possibly the primary inflatable camping structure 12. In this embodiment, each donor valve 16 is manually adjustable to control the airflow through the donor valve 16. In this way, the airflow through the donor valve 16 can be opened and closed, and the flow rate can be controlled.

[0094] like Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, there is an awning 18 and multiple inflatable camping accessories, including a gazebo 20, a storm shelter 22, and an auxiliary tent 24 (such as a shower tent or bathroom tent). In other embodiments, the inflatable camping accessories may include (additionally or alternatively) an inflatable paddling pool, an inflatable mattress, an inflatable seat (such as a chair or sofa), or other camping accessories with inflatable elements. It should be understood that in other embodiments, any specific inflatable camping accessory (such as a gazebo) can be an inflatable camping accessory.

[0095] The awning 18 comprises at least one interconnection (inflation) valve 28 for inflating the awning 18. The interconnection (inflation) valve 28 is arranged to be connected to an interconnection (inflation) valve 29 provided on the primary inflatable bivouac structure 12. The awning 18 comprises a supply valve 16 for releasing air from the awning 18.

[0096] In this embodiment, the awning 18 includes an inflatable element 26 / air pole (inflatable support structure) that supports a canopy (not shown) of the awning 18. The awning 18 includes an interconnection valve 28. The interconnection valve 28 is provided on the inflatable element 26 for inflating the inflatable element of the awning 18. The interconnection valve 28 is arranged to be connected to an interconnection valve 29 of the tent 12.

[0097] The awning 18 comprises a supply valve 16 for releasing air from the awning 18. The supply valve 16 is arranged to be connected to an inflation valve 17 of one of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24. In this embodiment, the supply valve 16 is identical to the interconnection valve 28, 29.

[0098] Each inflatable camping accessory 20,22,24 comprises at least one inflating element 30. Each inflating device 20,22,24 is provided with an inflating valve 17. The inflating valve 17 of the inflatable camping accessory 20,22,24 is arranged on the inflating element 26,30.

[0099] The supply valve 16 (which is identical to the interconnection valves 28 and 29 in this embodiment) is shown in FIG. Figure 4 shown. Figure 2A , Figure 3A and Figure 4 The donor valve 16 is shown in a closed configuration. Figure 2B and Figure 3B The donor valve is shown in an open configuration.

[0100] The supply valve 16 includes a valve body 32, a sleeve 34, and a control nut 36. The valve body 32 is disposed in an opening in a wall 38 of an inflatable element (e.g., the inflatable elements 26, 30). The valve body 32 is generally disc-shaped, having an inner side 40 facing an interior 42 of the inflatable element and an opposing outer side 44 facing away from the interior 42 of the inflatable element. The valve body 32 is sealed to the wall 38 of the inflatable element so that air can pass through the opening in the wall only via the valve body 32. For example, the valve body 32 can be fused to the wall 38 of the inflatable element (e.g., fused to the air bladder of the inflatable element). The sleeve 34 is generally tubular and extends away from the outer side 44 of the valve body 32 to allow air to leave the inflatable element. The sleeve 34 is arranged to be connected to an awning or inflatable camping accessory, as further described below.

[0101] One or more outlet passages 46 extend through the valve body 32 between the inner side 42 and the sleeve 34 to allow air to flow from the interior of the inflatable element and be released through the sleeve 34. Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the outlet passage is arcuate and is provided by an annular groove segment through the valve body 32. A first portion 48 of the outlet passage 46 extends between the inner side 40 of the valve body 32 and a generally annular recess 50 provided on the outer side 44 of the valve body 32. A second portion 52 of the outlet passage 46 extends between the annular recess 50 and the bore of the sleeve 34 (radially inward).

[0102] An annular recess 50 extends around the base of the sleeve 34. The annular recess 50 is arranged to receive a portion of the control nut 36. As further described below, a portion of the control nut 36 can be moved into or out of the annular recess 50 to block or open the outlet passage 46, thereby blocking or allowing gas flow through the donor valve 16.

[0103] The control nut 36 is disposed on the outer (exterior) side 44 of the valve body 32. The control nut 36 is mounted on the sleeve 34. The sleeve 34 extends through an opening 54 in the control nut 36. The threaded outer surface of the sleeve 34 is configured to engage with a corresponding threaded inner surface of the opening 54, so that the control nut 36 is threadedly engaged with the sleeve 34. Thus, rotation of the control nut 36 moves the control nut 36 toward or away from the valve body 32.

[0104] A generally annular protrusion 56 of the control nut 36 extends toward the interior 40 of the valve body 32. The annular protrusion 56 is arranged to engage with the annular recess 50. In this manner, the outlet passage 46 is blocked when the control nut 36 is moved to the closed position. When the control nut 36 is rotated to move away from the valve body 32 (toward the open position), the outlet passage 46 is opened to allow air to flow from the interior 42 of the inflatable element into the sleeve 34.

[0105] The radially inner side of the annular protrusion 56 includes a tapered surface 58, which is arranged to engage with a corresponding tapered surface 60 provided on the radially inner side of the annular recess 50. A first sealing O-ring 62 is provided on the tapered surface 60 of the annular recess 50. The first O-ring 62 is provided between the first portion 48 and the second portion 52 of the outlet passage 46. With this arrangement, when the annular protrusion 56 moves into or out of engagement with the annular recess 50, the outlet passage 46 gradually closes or opens as the tapered surfaces 58, 60 move toward or away from each other. Figure 2B and Figure 3B As shown, when the control nut 36 is removed from the valve body 32, the outlet passage 48 is opened, allowing air to flow from the inside of the valve body to the sleeve. Thus, the air flow rate through the supply valve 16 can be controlled.

[0106] A second sealing O-ring 64 is disposed between the radially outer surface of the annular protrusion 56 and the annular recess 50 to prevent air from passing between the radially outward surface of the protrusion 56 and the surface of the annular recess 50. When the radially outer surface of the annular protrusion 56 moves in a direction parallel to the radially outer surface of the annular recess, these surfaces slide past each other, and the second O-ring 64 is disposed between them to prevent air from passing. In this way, air can pass through the valve only via the sleeve 34. Thus, when the supply valve 16 is opened and connected to an inflation valve or hose, air loss to the environment is prevented.

[0107] The sleeve 34 may be open to the exterior, or may be connected to an inflatable element of an inflatable device. In this manner, the donor valve 16 provides a closable passage through which air may leave the inflatable element. Thus, the donor valve 16 allows air to be released from the awning 18. It should be understood that the donor valve (when open) also allows air to flow from the sleeve 34 to the inside of the valve body 32 in the opposite direction. In other embodiments, the donor valve may include a one-way valve. In some embodiments, the donor valve may be switched between an open and closed configuration without allowing the flow rate to be adjusted.

[0108] The supply valve 16 also includes a pressure relief mechanism. Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 3B The pressure relief mechanism is shown in the closed configuration. Figure 3A and Figure 4 The pressure relief mechanism is shown in an open configuration. In this embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism includes a movable valve member 66 in the form of a disc disposed in a chamber 68 in the valve body 32. An inlet opening 70 having a reduced diameter relative to the diameter of the chamber 68 extends between the interior 42 of the inflatable element and the chamber 68. An outlet 72 extends between the chamber 68 and the sleeve 34. The valve member 66 has a larger diameter than the inlet opening 70 and is biased to close the inlet opening 70 (in this example by a spring disposed in the chamber 68). When a threshold air pressure in the interior 70 of the inflatable element is reached, the valve member 66 is moved away from the inlet opening 70 by the air pressure (against the biasing force of the spring) to open the inlet 70, allowing air to flow into the chamber 68 and out through the sleeve 34. In this way, the risk of damaging the inflatable element due to excessive pressure is reduced.

[0109] In some embodiments, a pressure relief valve may be used to maintain a minimum pressure within the primary camping structure. For example, the valve may be in a closed configuration, but the hose / donor valve of the camping accessory is connected to the donor valve of the primary camping structure. In such a setup, air will not easily transfer from the primary camping structure to the camping accessories. However, if the pressure within the primary camping structure increases above the threshold pressure of the pressure relief valve, air will transfer from the primary camping structure to the camping accessories. In some cases, it may be desirable to only provide air from the camping structure if such air does not reduce the pressure within the camping structure below a certain value. This will ensure that the primary structure does not collapse due to the provision of too much air. Such a system may also be used to regulate pressure changes that may occur, such as during the heat of the day, during which excessive pressure may be transferred from the primary camping structure to the camping accessories, or even from the camping accessories to the atmosphere if this is not desired.

[0110] The awning 18 is arranged to be inflated with air from the primary inflatable bivouac structure 12 by connecting the awning 18 to the interconnect valve 29 of the primary inflatable bivouac structure 12. Each inflatable bivouac attachment 20, 22, 24 is arranged to be inflated with air from the awning 18 by connecting the inflatable bivouac attachment 20, 22, 24 to the supply valve 16 of the awning 18.

[0111] Advantageously, each inflation valve 17 of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 can be connected to the supply valve 16 using a connector or adapter. In this embodiment, the connector includes a flexible connector in the form of a hose 74. The connector includes a connection device that is configured to connect to the supply valve 16 and the inflation valve 17. For example, the hose 74, the supply valve 16, and the inflation valve 17 may include corresponding components of a 'quick-connect' coupling. In other embodiments, the valve and the hose may be connected by threaded fittings or threaded connection devices. In this way, the interconnected hoses may allow for quick and convenient connection of the inflatable device. The connection device may be arranged so that the connector (e.g., hose) has the same components at opposite ends so that the connector can be used in either direction. The hose may include a pressure relief valve (e.g., an inline discharge valve) to prevent over-inflation and damage to the accessories 20, 22, 24 being inflated. It should be understood that the camping assembly 10 of the present invention allows the use of a relatively short hose because the device to be inflated does not need to be directly connected to the pump and the supply valve 16 can be positioned for easy access by the user. In some embodiments, a rigid adapter or connector may be used instead of the hose.

[0112] In other embodiments, the supply valve 16 and the inflation valve 17 may be directly (e.g., rigidly) connected together (e.g., without using a connecting hose). In this case, the supply valve 16 and the inflation valve 17 may include corresponding portions of a quick-connect coupling or threaded fittings for direct connection to the valves 16, 17. For example, the sleeve 34 of each supply valve 16 may include a portion of a quick-connect coupling, or a threaded portion for threaded connection. Through these arrangements, the connection between the supply valve 16 and the inflation valve 17 can be made quickly and conveniently. Through these direct (or "valve-to-valve") connections, the accessories 20, 22, 24 can be connected to the awning 18 (or primary inflatable camping structure 12) without the use of a hose. In this way, fewer and / or smaller components may be required. In addition, through the direct connection, the inflation valve 17 can be rigidly connected to the supply valve 16, so that the inflation valve 17 can be supported by the supply valve 16.

[0113] In some embodiments, the supply valves 16 may be arranged to open only when a connector (e.g., an inflation valve 17 or a hose) is connected to them. In this way, undesirable air loss from the awning 18 may be avoided. The supply valve 16 may include a one-way valve so that air can only flow through the supply valve 16 in a direction away from the corresponding inflation device to which the supply valve 16 is mounted.

[0114] In use, using a pump or compressor ( Figure 1 The pump or compressor (not shown) inflates the tent 12, which may be integral to the tent 12. Once inflated, the tent 12 provides a reservoir for storing pressurized air. To inflate the awning 18 (primary camping structure), the interconnection valve 28 of the awning 18 is connected to the interconnection valve 29 of the tent 12 (primary camping structure). Figure 1 As shown, the interconnection valve 28 is connected to the interconnection valve 29 using a hose 74. Alternatively, the interconnection valve 29 can be connected directly (but preferably through an adapter) to the interconnection valve 28 to provide a direct rigid connection so that the awning 18 is at least partially supported by the tent 12 and the interconnection valve 29. Once the tent 12 and the awning 18 are connected, the interconnection valve 29 can be opened to allow pressurized air to flow from the tent inflatable element 14 into the awning inflatable element 26, thereby inflating the awning 18. The awning 18 is passively inflated when the pressurized air in the tent element 14 flows into the inflatable element 26 of the awning 18. The control nut 36 can be used to adjust the air flow rate into the awning 18, as described above. Alternatively, the flow rate can be simply turned on or off without having an adjustable flow rate. With these arrangements, the awning 18 does not need to be inflated at the same time as the tent 12. The uninflated awning 18 can be connected to the tent 12 at a later point in time and then inflated.

[0115] In this manner, no separate pump is required to inflate the awning 18. It will be appreciated that at least the initial stages of inflation of the awning 18 can be achieved more quickly than using a pump (e.g., a hand pump or an electric pump) because the tent inflatable element 14 is holding a relatively large volume of pressurized air and the flow rate into the awning 18 is not limited by the flow rate of the pump.

[0116] It should also be appreciated that, depending on the relative volumes of the tent inflatable element 14 and the inflatable element 26 of the awning 18, the awning 18 may be partially or fully inflated by the air stored in the inflatable element 14 of the tent 12. In the event that the awning 18 (or other secondary inflatable structure) is not fully inflated by the air stored in the tent element 14, the air source (e.g., an integrated pump) that inflates the tent 12 may be used for the remaining inflation by pumping air into the tent 12, which then flows into the awning 18 via the interconnect valve 29. In some embodiments, the tent 12 may be automatically re-inflated if the pressure in the tent inflatable element drops below a threshold pressure.

[0117] In some embodiments, the inflatable element 14 of the tent 12 may have a degree of resilience such that a certain volume of air may be released from the tent structure 12 without a significant loss of pressure and / or structural integrity of the tent 12. In this way, the tent 12 provides an air reservoir that may have a degree of redundancy, as all of the volume of air stored by the tent 12 may not be required to maintain the structure of the tent 12. Similarly, the inflatable element 26 of the awning 18 may have a degree of resilience such that the amount of air required to support the structure of the awning 18 is not the maximum amount of air that the inflatable awning 18 can hold. The above arrangement means that a separate pump is not required to inflate the awning 18. Once the awning 18 is inflated, the awning 18 provides an air reservoir from which one or more of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 may be inflated.

[0118] For example, the volumes or capacities of the various components may be as follows:

[0119] Primary inflatable camping structures, which can include tents, can range in size from 374 litres.

[0120] The awning (main camping structure) can hold up to 356 litres,

[0121] Inflatable camping accessories may include a parasol (150 litres) or a gazebo (150 litres) or a wind deflector (64 litres), or may include significantly smaller accessories such as a mattress or a ball.

[0122] It will be appreciated that the limit to the amount of air that can be provided will be set by the volume of the camping assembly, and thus the volume of the camping assembly can be set by the combined volume / capacity of the primary inflatable camping structure and the awning (main camping structure). This combination provides increased capacity compared to a single inflatable structure. In addition, for relatively large inflatable camping accessories, the camping assembly acts as an air reservoir in the initial stage, but for large products, such as additional awnings, additional air from a pump may be required. In a preferred embodiment, the total volume of air remains unchanged because no additional air is introduced into the system during inflation of the inflatable camping accessories. In particular, when air is donated from the inflatable camping structure to the inflatable camping accessories, no pump is required (or used) to introduce additional air into the system. As described above, such a system enables the inflatable camping accessories to be quickly and easily inflated without any power while maintaining the structural integrity of the inflatable camping structure.

[0123] The inflation valve 17 of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 can be connected to the supply valve 16 of the awning 18, or to the supply valve 16 of the tent 12. As described above, the inflation valve 17 of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 can be connected to the supply valve 16 in the same manner as the interconnection valve 28 of the awning 18. Conveniently, the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 can be inflated by being connected to the awning 18, which means that they do not need to be inflated too close to the tent 12, which may be inconvenient. Figure 1 As shown, an extension hose 76 is provided which may be connected to the supply valve 16 to make it easier to inflate larger or less maneuverable inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24.

[0124] The inflation valve 17 described here can be similar to the donor valve 16, and each inflation valve can have a connector (e.g., a quick connect connector or a threaded connector) that is arranged to connect to the corresponding connector of the donor valve 16. The inflation valve 17 can be substantially the same as the donor valve 16. In some embodiments, a universal connector (e.g., a hose or a rigid connector) can be configured to connect to any donor valve and / or inflation valve of the system. In this way, the user can select any connector and connect it to the donor valve and the inflation valve in either direction without having to ensure the compatibility and / or correct orientation of the connector. The donor valve can be structurally identical to the inflation valve, and in these embodiments, both valves can function as the other valve, depending on whether it is used to supply air or to receive air.

[0125] The above arrangement can eliminate the need to have a separate hand pump or air compressor and enable the user to rely on an already inflated product as the air supply to inflate the product. Alternatively, the user can perform the initial stage of inflation of the accessory as described above and then complete inflation of the device using a pump or other air source. This approach can significantly increase the speed of inflation because the initial stage of inflation can be performed quickly using air from the awning. In the case where the camping assembly includes a pump with its own power source, the camping assembly allows one or more devices to be inflated using a single air source in a remote or "off-grid" location without the need for an additional pump or connection to another power source.

Claims

1. A camping assembly comprising an inflatable camping structure, the inflatable camping structure comprising a network of inflatable air poles, the inflatable camping structure comprising a donor valve on the air poles for releasing air from the inflatable camping structure; and Wherein the supply valve is configured to be connected to an inflation valve of an inflatable camping accessory so as to inflate the inflatable camping accessory with air from the inflatable camping structure.

2. The camping assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inflatable camping structure is in an inflated configuration and the inflatable camping accessory is in a deflated configuration, and inflation of the inflatable camping accessory is achieved solely by air contained within the inflatable camping accessory without introducing any further air into the inflatable camping structure.

3. The camping assembly according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that: The camping assembly includes a main camping structure and a primary camping structure, wherein the main camping structure is releasably attached to the primary camping structure.

4. The camping assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that: The primary camping structure includes an awning and the primary camping structure includes one of an RV, a tent, and a trailer tent.

5. The camping assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that: The primary bivouac structure includes a primary inflatable bivouac structure including a first interconnection valve, and the awning includes a second interconnection valve for defining an air passage between the primary inflatable bivouac structure and the awning.

6. The camping assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that: One of the primary inflatable bivouac structure and the awning is arranged to inflate the other of the primary inflatable bivouac structure and the awning.

7. The camping assembly according to claim 5 or claim 6, characterized in that: The first interconnection valve and the second interconnection valve form an air passage with a control member located therein, and wherein the control member is movable between an open position and a closed position to selectively allow or prevent air flow between the primary camping structure and the awning.

8. The camping assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that: The control member is manually movable between the open position and the closed position.

9. The camping assembly according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that: The primary inflatable structure may include a plurality of donor valves.

10. A camping assembly according to any preceding claim, characterised in that The camping assembly includes a plurality of donor valves.

11. A camping assembly according to any preceding claim, characterised in that The camping assembly includes the inflatable camping accessory, and the inflatable camping accessory includes one of a gazebo, a wind deflector, an auxiliary tent, an inflatable paddling pool, an awning, an inflatable ball, an inflatable mattress and / or an inflatable seat.

12. A camping assembly according to any preceding claim, characterised in that The donor valve comprises a one-way valve.

13. A camping assembly according to any preceding claim, characterised in that The donor valve includes a pressure relief valve.

14. A camping assembly according to any preceding claim, characterised in that The donor valve is adjustable and includes a control valve configured to regulate a flow of gas through the donor valve.

15. A camping assembly according to any preceding claim, characterised in that The bivouac assembly includes a pressurized air source configured to inflate the primary bivouac structure.

16. The camping assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that The source of pressurized air includes a pump.

17. A camping assembly according to any preceding claim, characterised in that The inflation valve is connected to the donor valve via a connector.

18. A camping assembly according to any preceding claim, characterised in that The inflation valve is pneumatically connected to the donor valve by a connection means, and wherein the connection means comprises a quick connect coupling.

19. The camping assembly according to claim 18, characterized in that The connection device comprises a flexible connector, and the flexible connector comprises a hose.

20. A camping assembly according to any preceding claim, characterised in that The bivouac assembly includes a first inflatable volume and a second inflatable volume, wherein the first inflatable volume comprises an inflatable volume of the primary bivouac structure and the second inflatable volume comprises an inflatable volume of the inflatable bivouac accessory, and wherein a ratio of the first inflatable volume to the second inflatable volume is 4:1 or greater.

21. A camping assembly according to any preceding claim, characterised in that The inflated volume of the inflatable camping accessory is less than 50% of the inflated volume of the primary camping structure.

22. A method of inflating an inflatable camping accessory using air from a camping assembly, the camping assembly comprising an inflatable camping structure, wherein the inflatable camping structure comprises: Inflatable air rod network, A donor valve on an inflation pole for releasing air from an inflatable camping structure: and wherein the donor valve is configured to be connected to an inflation valve of an inflatable camping accessory so as to inflate the inflatable camping accessory with air from the inflatable camping structure; The method comprises: connecting the inflation valve of the inflatable camping accessory to the donor valve of the camping assembly; and Release air from camper components.

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that The camping kit includes: a primary inflatable bivouac structure including a primary supply valve configured to release air from said primary inflatable bivouac structure; a primary inflatable bivouac structure comprising an inflation valve for inflating the primary inflatable bivouac structure, wherein the inflation valve is configured to connect to the primary supply valve so as to inflate the primary inflatable bivouac structure with air from the primary inflatable bivouac structure, and wherein the bivouac assembly includes a secondary supply valve for releasing air from the bivouac assembly, and The method includes connecting an inflation valve of an inflatable camping accessory to a secondary supply valve of a camping component; and Release air from camper components.

24. The method according to claim 22 or claim 23, characterized in that The inflatable camping structure is in an inflated configuration and the inflatable camping accessory is in a deflated configuration, and the method includes inflating the inflatable camping accessory using only air contained within the inflatable camping accessory without introducing any further air into the inflatable camping structure.

25. The method according to any one of claims 22 to 24, characterized in that The bivouac assembly includes a first inflatable volume and a second inflatable volume, wherein the first inflatable volume comprises an inflatable volume of the inflatable bivouac structure and the second inflatable volume comprises an inflatable volume of the inflatable bivouac accessory, and wherein a ratio of the first inflatable volume to the second inflatable volume is 4:1 or greater.

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