Tent arrangement for a road vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a tent arrangement (10, 30) for a road vehicle (1), comprising a vehicle body section (2.1, 2.2) that defines an access opening (5, 7) to a vehicle interior (3), and a time unit (16) that has at least one planar, flexible protective element (17, 18) which, in a usable position, at least partially limits a occupancy area (A) adjacent to the access opening (5, 7) outside the vehicle interior (3) and can be stowed in a stowed position in the vehicle interior (3). The vehicle body section (2.1, 2.2) has at least one holding unit (11, 12, 31, 32) on the inside of the vehicle at the access opening (5, 7), with which a protective element (17, 18) is connected, which can be secured to the holding unit (11, 12, 31, 32) in the stow position and extends from the holding unit (11, 12, 31, 32) out of the access opening (5, 7) in the use position.According to the invention, the time unit (16) has at least one side protection element (17) comprising a main section (17.1) and a bottom section (17.2), wherein the bottom section (17.2) is folded away from the main section (17.1) in the usable position and attached to a foot element (20) of a rigid post element (19), and wherein the bottom section (17.2) is folded to and attached to the main section (17.1) so that the side protection element (17) can be moved into the stowed position.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a tent arrangement having the features of the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] Motor vehicles, such as passenger cars, are primarily designed for driving, which is reflected in the interior configuration. However, users also want to use the vehicle as a mobile seating area during extended stays, for example, at a picnic. To accommodate this, it is known in the prior art to reconfigure elements within the vehicle's interior, for example, by allowing the seats of a front row to be swivelled 180° backwards so that occupants of this row face those of a rear row. Numerous other possibilities for reconfiguring the vehicle interior are also known. However, the seating area always remains limited by the dimensions of the vehicle body. Therefore, it has also been proposed to create a fully or partially enclosed seating area outside the vehicle's interior.For this purpose, a tent-like structure extending into the exterior is connected to the vehicle body. However, setting up and dismantling such a temporary structure can be difficult and / or time-consuming.

[0003] US Patent 5,820,189 A discloses a removable cover intended for use as an extension for a vehicle having a cargo area adjacent to a rear opening and a rear tailgate that opens upward at the rear opening. The cover includes a rear wall made of a flexible material and side walls adjacent to the rear wall. An upper wall is positioned above the rear tailgate and is adjacent to the first and second side walls, and means are provided for attaching a portion of the upper wall to the rear tailgate to prevent the upper wall from sliding backward on the tailgate.

[0004] JP 7 417 788 B1 discloses a car tent that utilizes the tailgate of a hatchback vehicle. The car tent comprises an extension tent, an extended base plate, a clamping device, and a gap-bridging device. The extension tent consists of a tent canvas forming a substantially vertical, rectangular parallelepiped, open at the front and bottom. This is attached to the tailgate and the extended base plate by the clamping device. It can also be secured to the ground with tent pegs. The extended base plate can be designed so that the space beneath it is accessible through an opening to the ground. The opening can be designed to allow a person to stand inside the extension tent.

[0005] From the KR 10 2003 011 001 A, an off-road vehicle with a convertible tent is known, featuring an insect screen, a rear door guard operated by zippers, and a sunshade extendable from a tailgate. The tent's zippers allow for the simultaneous use of the insect screen and the rear door, and the sunshade extends beyond the tailgate, creating a spacious area for resting or other purposes as needed.

[0006] CN 1 10 588 494 A depicts a camper van comprising a body, a rear panel, and a mattress, with the rear panel positioned at the rear end of the body. The floor of the rear panel is connected to the body by a hinged joint, with locking buckles located on both sides of the rear panel. Corresponding sockets for the locking buckles are located at the rear ends of both sides of the body. The mattress is attached to the inside of the rear panel, and a retractable tent is positioned between the rear end of the body and the rear panel.

[0007] CN 1 04 790 715 A relates to a vehicle-mounted sleeping device. The vehicle-mounted sleeping device comprises a folding bed and a folding tent, and has fixed bed sides, movable bed sides, a bed platform, and a support frame on which the bed is mounted. The sleeping device can be telescopically extended from the rear of the vehicle, thus increasing the vehicle's potential sleeping area. The folding tent is equipped with side curtains and a top curtain. The side curtains are wound onto vertical rollers in vertical boxes attached to both sides of the interior wall of the vehicle's rear. The free ends of the side curtains are connected by an arched strut, and the side curtains can be opened or closed in conjunction with the movement of the movable sleeping device.The upper curtain is wound onto a transverse roller, with the free end of the upper curtain connected to a gravity strip. The upper curtain can be opened or closed in conjunction with the opening or closing of the box covers. The vehicle-mounted sleeping platform is integrated into the rear of the vehicle. However, the extendable sleeping platform is positioned at the level of the vehicle floor, thus creating a sleeping surface. A support with casters is attached to the extendable bed, allowing the vehicle to remain drivable even with the bed extended. The extendable bed is spaced away from the ground on which the vehicle rests.

[0008] According to FR 2 967 109 A, a device has an extension floor that is attached to a motor vehicle and projects out of the vehicle's passenger compartment when the trunk is open. A foldable cover can be moved from a folded position within a storage frame to an unfolded position, in which the cover creates an extension volume for the passenger compartment and simultaneously covers the extension floor. Independent of a pivoting mechanism for the opening frame, a foldable housing deployment unit or handle is provided. The handle is operated by pulling to extend the cover. The extension floor is also spaced apart from the ground on which the vehicle is standing.

[0009] DE 102 19 392 A1 relates to a camping tent for the rear of a motor vehicle, preferably of the type station wagon, station wagon or transport bus, with an upwardly opening upper tailgate section and a downwardly opening lower tailgate section, wherein both tailgate sections are arranged essentially horizontally when open and form at least part of a floor and roof area of ​​the camping tent, wherein the side walls and a rear wall of the camping tent can be integrated into an interior wall of the vehicle. The lower tailgate section thus forms an extension floor, which, however, is spaced away from the ground on which the vehicle stands.

[0010] The prior art described above deals with vehicle rear ends that can be extended to the rear, at each of which a living space can be arranged. Previously known vehicles that feature fold-out tailgate elements or extendable floors as an extension of the actual vehicle floor are disadvantageous in that the available space is not fully utilized, as the area beneath the extended floor or parts thereof remains unused. Furthermore, side openings of the vehicle are not even mentioned.

[0011] A rain cover for use with a car, comprising a housing assembly mounted on the roof and windshield pillar of the car, is disclosed in US 6,044,856 A. The housing assembly includes a roller rotatably mounted in the housing, a waterproof cover wound around the roller, and a winding spring that engages with the roller so that the waterproof cover extends from and retracts from the housing assembly when the vehicle door is opened and closed. A mounting strip is attached to the door, to which several mounting hooks are attached. The waterproof cover is provided with a plurality of hook receptacles for releasably engaging the mounting hooks on the mounting strip. When the rain cover is properly installed on a car, the waterproof cover extends from the housing assembly to protect the area between the door and the vehicle from rain when the door is opened.

[0012] In view of the current state of the art, the provision of a protected, fully usable waiting area outside a motor vehicle, both at the rear and on the sides, still offers room for improvement.

[0013] The invention is based on the objective of facilitating the provision of a protected, fully usable accommodation area outside a motor vehicle at the rear and also to the side of it.

[0014] According to the invention, the problem is solved by a tent arrangement with the features of claim 1.

[0015] A tent arrangement for a road vehicle is shown, comprising a vehicle body section defining an access opening to a vehicle interior, and a time unit comprising at least one planar, flexible protective element which, in a usable position, at least partially limits a standing area outside the vehicle interior adjacent to the access opening and can be stowed in a stowed position within the vehicle interior, wherein the vehicle body section has at least one holding unit on the inside of the access opening, to which a protective element is connected, which can be secured to the holding unit in the stowed position and extends from the holding unit out of the access opening in the usable position.According to the invention, the time unit has at least one side protection element comprising a main section and a bottom section, wherein the bottom section is folded away from the main section in the usable position and preferably detachably attached to a foot element of a rigid post element, and wherein the bottom section is folded to and attached to the main section, so that the side protection element can be moved into the stowed position.

[0016] The dependent claims relate to advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0017] It should be noted that the features and measures listed individually in the following description can be combined in any technically feasible manner and demonstrate further embodiments of the invention. The description further characterizes and specifies the invention, particularly in conjunction with the figures.

[0018] The invention provides a tent arrangement for a road vehicle. The road vehicle can be a motor vehicle, such as a passenger car or a truck, including vans. However, the road vehicle can also be a trailer without its own propulsion system. Hereinafter, the road vehicle will simply be referred to as the vehicle. The tent arrangement comprises a vehicle body section that defines an access opening to a vehicle interior. In its assembled state, the vehicle body section forms part of a vehicle body. The vehicle body can generally correspond to the sprung mass of the road vehicle, in particular a body shell. The vehicle body section defines an access opening to a vehicle interior. The latter can be a passenger compartment or a cargo area. The access opening is an opening through which access to the vehicle interior is possible from the outside.This can also be referred to as a door opening. Accordingly, the vehicle body section could also be called a door section or opening section. Regarding the access opening, a width direction and a passage direction can be defined. The width direction is the direction in which the access opening extends horizontally. The passage direction runs horizontally and perpendicular to the width direction. It therefore corresponds to the direction in which a user can pass through the access opening. It is understood that the access opening can be closed by at least one door element, i.e., a movable element that can be opened and closed as desired to allow or prevent access to the vehicle interior.

[0019] The tent assembly also includes a unit that has at least one flat, flexible protective element. In its operational position, this element at least partially encloses a space outside the vehicle interior adjacent to the access opening and can be stowed inside the vehicle interior. This unit can also be referred to as a protective unit or shielding unit. It serves to at least partially shield a space outside the vehicle body from the surrounding environment. The protection or shielding can relate to various influences. In particular, it can provide privacy, insect protection, wind protection, and / or rain protection. The unit has at least one protective element that is flat and flexible. "Flat" means that the protective element has a dimension in one direction that is significantly smaller than in any direction perpendicular to it.This dimension, which can be referred to as thickness, can be, for example, at most 1% or at most 0.1% of the dimension in any other direction. "Flexible" means that the protective element as a whole is deformable, in particular bendable. It can be designed to be flexibly rigid, so that bending does not result in any significant restoring force. It can be made of a flexible material; however, a structure consisting of inherently inflexible individual parts that are movably connected to one another would also be conceivable. The protective element can, in particular, comprise a film and / or a textile material, e.g., a woven or non-woven fabric. A multi-layered structure is also conceivable. For example, one layer of textile material could provide mechanical stability, while another layer could be designed as a film and provide, for example, windproofness or rain protection. Preferably, the time unit comprises a plurality of protective elements.

[0020] In its operating position, the protective element at least partially delimits a waiting area outside the vehicle interior adjacent to the access opening, effectively extending to the ground on which the vehicle rests. For this purpose, the floor section is simply folded away from the main section in the operating position, and the floor section is then attached to the base element, for example, by loops. The floor section can, of course, also be attached to the base element in another way, and the attachment can also be detachable. An extendable floor or the use of a lower tailgate section is not required. The waiting area is an area in which at least one person can be present. It is located outside the vehicle interior and adjacent to the access opening. In particular, it can extend externally to the access opening in the direction of passage.Depending on the design, the area of ​​occupancy can be fully or partially limited or shielded by the time unit. A protective element can, in turn, at least partially limit the area of ​​occupancy. This means the protective element separates the area of ​​occupancy from an unprotected area, which expressly does not mean that a person is necessarily prevented from leaving the area of ​​occupancy. In the operating position, which can also be referred to as the protective or shielding position, the respective protective element limits the area of ​​occupancy at least partially and thus contributes to the protection of a person within the area of ​​occupancy. As mentioned above, different types of protection are conceivable. In the stowed position, the respective protective element can be stowed in the vehicle interior. In the case of multiple protective elements, this applies to each protective element. That is, the protective element can be completely accommodated in the vehicle interior.This can be particularly supported by the flexible design of the protective element. The protective element can be installed in the interior in such a way that the access opening can be closed, i.e., it is not blocked by the protective element.

[0021] As mentioned above, the vehicle body section has at least one retaining unit on the inside of the access opening. A protective element is connected to this retaining unit. In the stowed position, the protective element can be secured to the retaining unit, and in the usable position, it extends from the retaining unit out of the access opening. The retaining unit is part of the tent assembly but is not considered part of the time unit in this context. It is located on the inside of the vehicle, near the access opening, and is therefore not accessible from the outside when the access opening is closed. It is preferably attached to the vehicle body section or can be considered part of it. The retaining unit can have one or more elements, with individual elements being rigidly connected or movable relative to each other. A protective element is connected to the retaining unit, and this connection exists in both the stowed and usable positions.The protective element is attached to the vehicle body via the mounting unit. The part of the protective element that is connected to the mounting unit can be referred to as the vehicle-side end.

[0022] In the stowed position, the protective element can be secured to the holding unit. "Secured" generally means that the protective element as a whole is secured against accidental displacement. The holding unit may have securing devices for this purpose, which can be designed as holding elements. The state of the protective element on the holding unit can be described as a compact state. In this state, the protective element can be arranged in multiple layers, with several layers stacked on top of each other. However, securing the protective element does not necessarily have to correspond to a complete locking mechanism. Securing the protective element "on the holding unit" can also correspond to securing it within the holding unit itself. In the operating position, the protective element extends from the holding unit out of the access opening.The connection to the holding unit is also present in this position, but the protective element is not compactly secured to the holding unit. Instead, it extends outwards from the unit through the access opening, where, as described, it defines the area of ​​use. This state can be described as the extended state. While the protective element can be arranged in multiple layers in the stowed position, it is preferably arranged in a single layer in the operating position, allowing it to cover the largest possible area. It is understood that the access opening must be open in this position; that is, one or more access doors must be open.

[0023] To use the protective element, it can be moved from its stowed position to its operating position. A connection to the vehicle body section—and thus to the vehicle body as a whole—is established via the retaining unit, contributing to mechanical stabilization and aiding in positioning. The protective element is dimensioned so that it extends through the access opening and, outside the vehicle, at least partially limits the area accessible. When the protective element is no longer needed, it can be moved back to its stowed position, where it is secured to the retaining unit. The retaining unit thus defines a designated storage location for the protective element, simplifying storage for the user. Furthermore, the protective element can be secured to the retaining unit, ensuring safe storage until its next use.Therefore, any potential impairment of other vehicle components, persons, or cargo in the vehicle interior is minimized or eliminated. The user-friendliness of the tent arrangement according to the invention is thus high.

[0024] The access opening can be a rear opening located at the rear of the vehicle with respect to a longitudinal axis. This can be closed, in particular, by an upwardly pivoting tailgate or by two laterally pivoting rear doors, although other configurations are also conceivable. In this case, the width direction runs parallel to the vehicle's transverse axis and the passage direction parallel to the vehicle's longitudinal axis. Alternatively, the access opening can be a side opening located laterally with respect to a vehicle's transverse axis. Such a side opening can, for example, be closed by a laterally pivoting door or by a sliding door, although alternatives are conceivable here as well. In this case, the width direction runs parallel to the vehicle's longitudinal axis and the passage direction parallel to the vehicle's transverse axis. A road vehicle could also have a plurality of access openings, each of which is associated with a tent arrangement according to the invention.

[0025] Advantageously, at least one holding unit has a housing in which a protective element can be at least partially received in the stowed position. The housing has a wall that at least partially encloses an interior space. The wall can be solid or perforated (e.g., as a grille). It has at least one opening through which the protective element can move into and out of the housing. The housing can serve both to securely hold the protective element and, advantageously, to conceal the protective element in a space-saving manner when not in use. The housing can be integrated into the interior trim of the road vehicle.

[0026] Several options are conceivable for how the respective protective element can be accommodated on the holding unit in a space-saving manner. For example, it could be folded in a zigzag pattern. A preferred embodiment provides that at least one holding unit has a rotatably mounted winding unit onto which a protective element can be wound into the stowed position and from which it can be unwound into the usable position. In some embodiments, the winding unit can also be referred to as a winding shaft. It is rotatably mounted relative to the vehicle body. The protective element is connected to the winding unit. By rotating the unit, it is wound or unwound. In particular, the winding unit can be arranged in the aforementioned housing. By winding the protective element, it can be retracted into the housing.

[0027] Both adjusting a protective element to the operating position and adjusting it to the stowed position can be done manually. However, it is also possible and advantageous to provide assistance to the user during at least one adjustment process. Preferably, the tent assembly includes at least one drive element configured to at least assist in adjusting a protective element to the stowed position. The drive element is configured to exert a force and / or torque that moves the protective element to the stowed position. The drive element can interact directly or indirectly with the protective element. For example, the drive element can act on the aforementioned winding unit by exerting a torque that, in turn, winds up the protective element. Optionally, the protective element can also be adjusted to the stowed position solely by the action of the drive element.The drive element can be designed as a motor drive, e.g., an electric drive. However, it can also, for example, include a spring element that is tensioned when the guard element is moved into the operating position. The restoring force of the spring element at least assists the movement into the stowed position. A locking mechanism can be provided to prevent unintentional resetting. This could, for example, prevent the winding unit from rotating. To move the guard element into the stowed position, a user could release the locking mechanism, after which the spring element causes the resetting. In the case of multiple guard elements, each guard element preferably has its own drive element.

[0028] Various designs and numbers of protective elements are conceivable. As mentioned above, the unit has at least one side protective element that, in its operating position, horizontally limits the area of ​​occupancy. In this position, the side protective element extends vertically, i.e., along the vehicle's vertical axis, or optionally parallel to it. It can be said to form a side wall that horizontally limits the area of ​​occupancy. Such a side protective element can be positioned laterally along the edge of the access opening. In the case of a rear opening, it would be positioned on the left or right edge; in the case of a side opening, at the front or rear edge. In particular, two side protective elements can be provided, positioned opposite each other laterally. A side protective element can serve as weather protection, especially as wind protection, but also as a privacy screen.Due to its base section, the side protection element can be extended down to the ground, i.e., to the surface on which the vehicle stands, if necessary, thus ensuring its full effect extends downwards. Alternatively or additionally to a side protection element, the unit can feature a roof protection element that, in its operating position, vertically limits the occupancy area. In this position, the roof protection element extends horizontally, i.e., along the vehicle's longitudinal and / or transverse axis, optionally also parallel to one of these axes. It can be described as forming a roof that vertically limits the occupancy area. Such a roof protection element can be positioned at the top edge of the access opening. A roof protection element can serve as weather protection, particularly rain protection, but also as a privacy screen.Preferably, two side protection elements and one roof protection element are provided. Optionally, these can be connected to each other, e.g., by snap fasteners, at least one zipper, at least one Velcro fastener, or similar means. This can at least minimize any potential gap between the protection elements and thus improve protection. A connection can also contribute to the overall stabilization of the unit. Each side protection element and / or the roof protection element can have its own mounting bracket, which is positioned inside the vehicle at the edge of the access opening.

[0029] The roof protection element can advantageously have a roof section that limits the occupancy area upwards and a side section that limits the occupancy area horizontally on one side opposite the access opening. This means the roof protection element not only provides protection from above, but also, via the side section, horizontally down to the ground, i.e., to the surface on which the vehicle is standing. In its operating position, the side section can connect to one or two side protection elements and, together with them, ensure the most complete possible protection in the horizontal direction. The roof section extends horizontally, i.e., along the vehicle's longitudinal and / or transverse axis, optionally also parallel to one of these axes. The side section extends vertically, i.e., along the vehicle's vertical axis, optionally also parallel to it.It lies opposite the access opening in a horizontal direction, more precisely in the direction of passage.

[0030] It is advantageous if a person can not only enter and leave the area through the access opening, but also move directly from the area into the surrounding environment. This is readily possible if at least one protective element only partially encloses the area. However, if the area is completely enclosed, the protective unit must function as a kind of access door. According to a suitable design, the protective unit has an outer opening that can be selectively closed or opened by at least one locking section of a protective element. The locking section can be secured, for example, with a zipper, Velcro fastener, or snap fasteners to keep the outer opening closed. Multiple locking sections can also be provided. A protective element can also have two locking sections that can be connected to close the outer opening.

[0031] Preferably, a plurality of protective elements are independently adjustable between the stowed position and the operating position, thus allowing the time unit to be used in a plurality of configurations. Since the protective elements are independently adjustable, at least one protective element can remain in the stowed position while at least one other protective element is moved into the operating position. This allows for different configurations, with each configuration corresponding to a combination of protective elements in the operating position. For example, only one side protective element could be used, positioned on a side that roughly corresponds to the current wind direction or where privacy is desired. Its effectiveness is particularly advantageous when the side protective element extends to the ground. In dry weather, two side protective elements could be used while the roof protective element remains stowed.In case of rain, the roof protection element could be used together with one or both side protection elements.

[0032] Since the respective protective element is flexible, it generally lacks the necessary stability to form a stable wall on its own. Although it is connected to the associated holding unit, this connection may be insufficient. Therefore, preferably, a rigid post element is attached to at least one side protective element. This post element is horizontally spaced from the holding unit in its operating position and extends vertically. The post element can be made, for example, of light metal, plastic, and / or fiber-reinforced plastic. It can be elongated, such that its extension in one direction is at least five or ten times its extension perpendicular to that direction. The post element is rigid, although its stiffness may vary depending on the embodiment. In any case, it is more rigid than the side protective element to which it is connected.In particular, the side guard element can be flexible, unlike the post element. The post element can be positioned at an end of the side guard element furthest from the vehicle, opposite an end closer to the vehicle that is connected to the mounting unit. The post element serves, firstly, to stabilize the side guard element. Secondly, it can also serve as a handle for the user to guide the side guard element. Specifically, this allows the user to pull the side guard element from its stowed position to its operating position. Another function of the post element can be to prevent the side guard element from being fully retracted into the housing. The post element can be dimensioned so that it cannot be retracted into the housing. It thus remains outside the housing, as does any section of the side guard element connected to it.In particular, the vertical dimension of the post element can be greater than the dimension of the side protection element.

[0033] Even if the post element is so large that it cannot be retracted into the housing, it may not be long enough to reach the ground outside the vehicle and on which the vehicle stands when in its operating position. An advantageous embodiment therefore provides that at least one post element is connected to a foot element, which is adjustable downwards relative to the post element from a retracted position to a support position. This allows the post element to be supported by the foot element against a surface on which the vehicle itself stands. The adjustability can be translational and / or rotational. For example, the foot element can be pivotally connected to the post element. In the retracted position, it can rest against the post element. By pivoting it downwards, it can be positioned so that it acts as an extension of the post element.In this support position, it can be locked to ensure a secure connection with the post element (and with the side protection element). The foot element is designed to bridge any height difference between the vehicle floor and the ground on which the vehicle stands, thus guaranteeing stable support. Another option would be a sliding connection with the post element. For example, a telescopic connection could be provided, allowing the foot element to be either inserted into or removed from the post element. This also allows for height adjustment of the foot element to the ground if there is a raised or recessed area in the contact zone. In any case, the foot element can form an extension of the post element in the support position.This allows the post element to be supported on the ground via the base element, which in turn also supports the side protection element. As mentioned above, the side protection element has a bottom section that can be directly connected to the base element or can be connected to it when it is in the support position. The bottom section connects to the main section, which is directly connected to the post element. The bottom section improves the protective effect of the side protection element by effectively extending it downwards, towards the ground. Furthermore, the entire usable area can be used efficiently without wasting space, as it is protected all the way down to the ground.

[0034] When the base element is telescopically retracted into the post element, the base section is automatically detached from the base element and can be folded or tilted upwards towards the main section. When the base element is pivoted into the retracted position, the base section can remain connected to the base element, allowing both to be pivoted together towards the main section and secured to it.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, at least one side protection element is designed with a stepped bottom, wherein the bottom section is shorter than the main section when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, and wherein an end of the main section furthest from the vehicle is connected to the post element, while an end of the bottom section furthest from the vehicle can be connected to the foot element or is connected when the latter is arranged in a support position.

[0036] Preferably, the base section is shorter in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle than the main section. In particular, when the base section is folded or tilted downwards from the main section in the operating position, i.e., towards the ground, the side protection element has a stepped design. This allows the side protection element, with its shorter main section, to be adapted to the vehicle floor and, for example, to an adjoining access area, and in particular, to be attached to it in a wrinkle-free or detachable manner. A holding force can even be generated when the main section is attached there. This increases the stability of the side protection element and, if applicable, the time unit. In the folded-down position, the base section extends to the ground and can be attached there under tension, which further increases stability.Due to the advantageous stepped design of the side protection element, its effectiveness is further improved by the particularly sophisticated installation on the vehicle floor and simultaneously on the ground.

[0037] Although a post element stabilizes the side protection element, and a foot element facilitates or enables bracing against the ground, and the stepped side protection element is particularly stable when connected to the vehicle floor, adjacent areas, and the ground, the stabilization of the unit of time can be further improved. According to one embodiment, the tent arrangement has a rigid connecting element for the horizontal connection of two post elements, which is preferably at least attachable to the roof protection element. The two post elements can be associated with side protection elements that are opposite each other in the width direction. The connecting element joins both post elements to each other and is accordingly connected to both. The connecting element is rigid and can be made of the same materials that are also suitable for the post elements, e.g.,The connecting element is made of light metal, plastic, and / or fiber-reinforced plastic. It can also be elongated, such that its length in one direction is at least five or ten times its length perpendicular to that direction. The connecting element and / or the post elements can have suitable fasteners that allow for a detachable connection. The connection stabilizes the post elements against each other. The connecting element is also supported by the post elements. Preferably, the connecting element is attached to the roof protection element or at least attachable to it. This also provides support for the roof protection element. If the roof protection element has a roof section and a side section, the connecting element can be arranged, in particular, in the transition area between them.

[0038] Alternatively or in addition to such a connecting element that joins a post element, at least one connecting element could also be provided that connects a post element to a holding unit. Such a connecting element, extending in the direction of travel, stabilizes the connected post element against the vehicle body.

[0039] Further advantageous details and effects of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to different embodiments illustrated in the figures. It shows Fig. 1 a perspective view of a road vehicle with two tent arrangements according to the invention in a first state; Fig. 2 a perspective view of the road vehicle from Fig. 1 with the tent arrangements in a second state; Fig. 3A-3C Perspective views of a holding unit and a side protection unit of a tent arrangement in different states; Fig. 4A-4B Perspective views of a holding unit and a roof protection unit of a tent arrangement in various states; as well as Fig. 5 a perspective view of the road vehicle from Fig. 1 with the tent arrangements in a third state.

[0040] In the different figures, identical parts are always provided with the same reference symbols, which is why they are usually only described once.

[0041] Fig. Figure 1 shows a vehicle, for example a road vehicle 1, in this case a passenger car, with a vehicle body 2, within which a vehicle interior 3 is formed. The figures show a vehicle longitudinal axis X, a vehicle transverse axis Y, and a vehicle vertical axis Z. The vehicle interior 3 is accessible via two access openings 5, 7: a rear opening 5 and a side opening 7. The rear opening 5 can be closed by a rear door element 4 and is defined by a first vehicle body section 2.1, which is part of a first tent arrangement 10. The side opening 7 can be closed by a side door element 6 and is defined by a second vehicle body section 2.2, which is part of a second tent arrangement 30.The rear opening 5 extends horizontally in a first lateral direction B1, which runs parallel to the vehicle's transverse axis Y, and allows passage in a first passage direction D1, which runs parallel to the vehicle's longitudinal axis X. Three retaining units 11, 12 of the first tent assembly 10 are arranged on the inside of the rear opening 5. The side opening 7 extends horizontally in a second lateral direction B2, which runs parallel to the vehicle's longitudinal axis X, and allows passage in a second passage direction D2, which runs parallel to the vehicle's transverse axis Y. Three retaining units 31, 32 of the second tent assembly 30 are arranged on the inside of the side opening 7. The structure and function of the second tent assembly 30 correspond to those of the first tent assembly 10, which is why the following description is limited to the latter.

[0042] The first tent arrangement 10 has a time unit 16, which is intended to delimit a waiting area A outside the vehicle interior 3. For this purpose, two side protection elements 17 and a roof protection element 18 are provided. As in Fig. As can be seen from Figure 1, the waiting area A is located completely outside the road vehicle 1, as indicated by the dashed line. Fig. 1. All protective elements 17, 18 are arranged in a stowed position. The side protective elements 17 are received in housings 13 of two lateral retaining units 11, which are arranged on opposite sides of the rear opening 5 with respect to the first lateral direction B1. The roof protective element 18 is received in a housing 13 of an upper retaining unit 12, which is arranged on the upper side of the rear opening 5. Fig. 1 The protective elements 17, 18 themselves are not visible, however post elements 19 which are connected to the side protective elements 17, and a threshold element 22 which is connected to the roof protective element 18.

[0043] Fig. Figure 2 shows the first tent arrangement 10 with the protective elements 17, 18 in a usable position. All protective elements 17, 18 are flat and flexible. They may, for example, have a fabric layer that can be coated with a waterproof film. The side protective elements 17 run vertically and parallel to the first passage direction D1, i.e., the vehicle's longitudinal axis X, and are spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction B1, i.e., parallel to the vehicle's transverse axis Y. At its end, each side protective element 17 has a post element 19 that runs parallel to the vehicle's vertical axis Z. A foot element 20 forms an extension of the respective post element 19 downwards and supports it on a surface 50 on which the road vehicle 1 stands. The side protective element 17 has a main section 17.1, which extends at the height of the post element 19, and a base section 17.2, which extends at the height of the foot element 20. The base section 17.2 is connected to the foot element 20 by means of a plurality of loops 23.

[0044] In the operating position, the floor section 17.2 is folded away from the main section 17.1 towards the ground 50 on which the road vehicle 50 stands, about a folding axis. The folding axis about which the floor section 17.2 can be folded is best located in Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b. The folding axis is located on the side protection element 17 at the level of the vehicle floor. This design has several advantages. Firstly, the floor section 17.1 can be folded upwards towards the main section 17.1 when the side protection element 17 is to be moved from the operating position to the stowed position. The side protection element 17 is received in the housing 13 without resistance, i.e., without any part of the side protection element 17 rubbing against the vehicle floor or other elements. Despite the double-layered arrangement in the area of ​​the folded-up floor section 17.2, the side protection element 17 is easily received in the housing 13. Furthermore, the side protection element 17 has a stepped design in the operating position when the floor section 17.2 is folded down. This is because the floor section 17.2 is shorter than the main section 17.1 when viewed in the longitudinal direction X of the vehicle.The end furthest from the vehicle of the main section 17.1 is connected to the post element 19, and the end furthest from the vehicle of the base section 17.2 is connected to the foot element 20. The ends furthest from the vehicle are flush with each other. The ends closest to the vehicle of main section 17.1 and base section 17.2, however, are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction X of the vehicle, so that a step is formed in the side protection element 17, as shown in [reference]. Fig. 3A is recognizable. A lower end of the side protection element 17, here the main section 17.1, can rest on the vehicle floor or be connected to it, i.e., attached to it. A lower end of the side protection element 1, i.e., of the floor section 17.2, can rest on the surface 50 or be connected to it, i.e., attached to it. The stable arrangement of the lower end or the lower end of the side protection element 17 improves its stability. In addition, the side protection element 17 extends to the vehicle floor and also to the surface 50, so that the area A outside the vehicle is completely protected from the elements and unwanted views, even near the vehicle floor or the surface, thus eliminating the need for space-consuming extension floors at the level of the vehicle floor.

[0045] The roof guard element 18 has a roof section 18.1, which extends horizontally and defines the upper boundary of the living area A, and a vertically extending side section 18.2. The latter defines the horizontal boundary of the living area A on one side opposite the access opening 5. A closing section 18.3, defined by a zipper 26, is formed within the side section 18.2. A connecting element 21 is connected to the roof guard element 18 between the roof section 18.1 and the side section 18.2. This connecting element 21 extends horizontally and connects the two post elements 19 to each other. A connecting pin 24, which is rigidly connected to the post element 19, is inserted into one end of the connecting element 21. Furthermore, both the side guard elements 17 and the roof guard element 18 have hook-and-loop fasteners 25 (see figure). Fig. 3A and 4A), through which they are connected to each other. In this way, the following results: Fig. 2. A recognizable, largely closed structure of the time unit 16, which provides both visual and weather protection down to the ground 50, is achieved in particular by means of the foldable floor sections 17.2 on the side protective elements 17. Since access to the living area A through the rear opening 5 is possible but potentially cumbersome, an external opening 27 is provided on the side section 18.2, which in Fig. 2 is closed by the closing section 18.3. By opening the zipper 26, the closing section 18.3 can be opened, thereby releasing the outer opening 27. This is in Fig. 4B is shown.

[0046] Fig. Figures 3A to 3C illustrate the adjustment of the side protection element 17 from the use position to the stowed position. Fig. 3A corresponds to the operating position. In a first step, the foot element 20 can be telescopically moved into the post element 19. For this, the user can release a locking mechanism (not shown) that prevents unintentional movement. By inserting the foot element 20, the loops 23 are released and the base section 17.2 is freely movable. In a next step, it can be folded or collapsed against the main section 17.1, where it can be secured by locking elements (not shown), such as a hook-and-loop fastener or snap fasteners. The corresponding state is shown in Fig. Figure 3B shows the process. The side guard element 17 can then be retracted into the housing 13. The holding unit 11 has a winding unit 14 rotatably mounted in the housing, to which the side guard element 17 is connected. By rotating the winding unit 14, the side guard element 17 can be wound up and thus retracted. To at least assist this, the holding unit 11 has a drive element 15 (shown only schematically) that acts on the winding unit 14. The drive element could, for example, be an electric motor or a pre-tensioned spring. Fig. Figure 3C shows the side protection element 17 in the stowed position, in which it is fully retracted into the housing 13. As in Fig. 4A and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4B, the upper holding unit 12 also has a housing 13 in which a winding unit 14 and a drive element 15 are arranged. The retraction of the roof protection element 18 therefore occurs in an analogous manner to the retraction of the side protection element 17.

[0047] All three protective elements 17, 18 can be adjusted independently of each other between their respective storage and use positions. Therefore, different configurations of the tent arrangement 10 can be realized. Fig. Figure 5 shows an example configuration in which one of the side protection elements 17 and the roof protection element 18 are arranged in the stowed position, while the other side protection element 17 is arranged in the operating position. In this configuration, the time unit 16 can, for example, function as a one-sided windbreak, sunshade, or privacy screen. Since stabilization via the connecting element 21 is not possible in this configuration, for example, a Fig.The diagonal element 28 shown in Figure 5 is used to create a horizontal connection between the post element 19 and the lateral holding unit 11 of the opposite side protection element 17. Reference symbol list: 1 road vehicle 2 Vehicle bodies 2.1, 2.2 Vehicle body section 3 Vehicle interior 4, 6 door element 5, 7 Access opening 10, 30 tent arrangement 11, 12, 31, 32 Holding unit 13 cases 14 changing unit 15 Drive element 17-sided protective element 17.1 Main Section 17.2 Ground section 18 roof protection element 18.1 Roof section 18.2 Section 18.3 Closing section 19 post elements 20 foot element 21 Connecting element 22 Threshold element 23 loops 24 connecting pins 25 Velcro fasteners 26 zippers 27 Outer opening 28 diagonal elements 50 subsurface A lounge area B1, B2 Latitude direction D1, D2 Direction of passage X Longitudinal axis Y transverse axis Z vertical axis QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 5 820 189 A

[0003] JP 7 417 788 B1

[0004] KR 10 2003 011 001 A

[0005] CN 1 10 588 494 A

[0006] CN 1 04 790 715 A

[0007] FR 2 967 109 A

[0008] DE 102 19 392 A1

[0009] US 6 044 856 A

[0011]

Claims

[1] Tent arrangement (10, 30) for a road vehicle (1), comprising a vehicle body section (2.1, 2.2) defining an access opening (5, 7) to a vehicle interior (3), and a time unit (16) comprising at least one planar, flexible protective element (17, 18) which, in a usable position, at least partially limits a occupancy area (A) adjacent to the access opening (5, 7) outside the vehicle interior (3) and can be stowed in a stowed position within the vehicle interior (3), wherein the vehicle body section (2.1, 2.2) has, on the inside of the vehicle, at least one retaining unit (11, 12, 31, 32) to which a protective element (17, 18) is connected, which can be secured to the retaining unit (11, 12, 31, 32) in the stowed position and which, in the usable position, extends from the Holding unit (11, 12, 31, 32) extends out of the access opening (5, 7). characterized by, that the time unit (16) has at least one side guard element (17) comprising a main section (17.1) and a bottom section (17.2), wherein the bottom section (17.2) is folded away from the main section (17.1) in the usable position and attached to a foot element (20) of a rigid post element (19), and wherein the bottom section (17.2) is folded to and attached to the main section (17.1) so that the side guard element (17) can be moved into the stowed position. [2] Tent arrangement according to claim 1, characterized by, that at least one side protection element (17) is designed with a stepped bottom surface, wherein the bottom section (17.2) is shorter than the main section (17.1) when viewed in the longitudinal direction (X) of the vehicle, and wherein a vehicle-remote end of the main section (17.1) is connected to the post element (17.1), while a vehicle-remote end of the bottom section (17.2) is connected to the foot element (20) when the latter is arranged in a support position. [3] Tent arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that at least one holding unit (11, 12, 31, 32) has a housing (13) in which a protective element (17, 18) can be at least partially received in the stowed position. [4] Tent arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that at least one holding unit (11, 12, 31, 32) has a rotatably mounted winding unit (14) onto which a protective element (17, 18) can be wound into the stow position and from which it can be unwound into the usable position. [5] Tent arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that it has at least one drive element (15) which is designed to at least assist in moving a protective element (17, 18) into the jamming position. [6] Tent arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the time unit (16) has at least one side protection element (17) which, in the usable position, limits the area of ​​occupancy (A) in a horizontal direction, and / or a roof protection element (18) which, in the usable position, limits the area of ​​occupancy (A) vertically upwards. [7] Tent arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the roof protection element (18) has a roof section (18.1) that limits the area of ​​occupancy (A) upwards and a side section (18.2) that limits the area of ​​occupancy (A) in a horizontal direction on one side opposite the access opening (5, 7). [8] Tent arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the rigid post element (19) is attached to at least one side protection element (17), i.e. to its main section (17.1), which in the usable position is horizontally spaced, i.e. in the vehicle longitudinal direction (X) from the holding unit (11, 12, 31, 32) and extends vertically. [9] Tent arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that at least one post element (19) is connected to a foot element (20) which is adjustable downwards from a retracted position to a support position relative to the post element (19), whereby the post element (19) can be supported by the foot element (20) on a surface (50) on which the road vehicle (1) stands. [10] Tent arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that it has a rigid connecting element (21) for the horizontal connection of two post elements (19), which is preferably at least attachable to the roof protection element (18).

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