A rescue tent for emergency use

Abstract

An emergency rescue tent (1, 200) can be erected rapidly and conveniently to be lowered over a casualty. It is for use with any casualty or person seeking medical assistance, helping to keep him or her safe from further danger. This tent has an inflatable frame (10, 250) and a cover (50, 260) with panels (60-62, 230) which open to provide access and windows (63, 64, 235) for visibility. The frame has arches (11, 12, 13) and longitudinal struts (14-17) between the arches. The longitudinal struts are above ground level and so allow flexibility for vertical level of the feet on uneven terrain and also, they do not provide any obstruction to side access by an emergency responder. Also, there are no struts across gable end arches (11, 13, 411, 413) and so there is no obstruction to end access. The tent (1) provides a casualty with protection and privacy in emergency situations without having to be moved and where medical assistance is required, safeguarding the well-being and dignity of patients by shielding them from weather elements, public and social media and reducing anxiety while allow the responders to stabilise the casualty or wait for further assistance or transport.

Description

[0001] “A Rescue Tent for Emergency Use”

[0002] Introduction

[0003] The present invention relates to a tent or for use in emergency situations where an individual requires any first aid or medical assistance at the scene of an accident.

[0004] It is known to provide tents which can be quickly inflated and erected such as described for example in US4335545, US2003 / 116182, US2020 / 332551, US2021 / 214962, and US5479743. Other examples are described in GB2,612,570, GB2,443,821, and GB2,593,663

[0005] The present invention is directed towards providing safety, comfort, protection from environmental elements & privacy from bystanders to the individual requiring first aid / medical treatment. More specifically, the present invention is directed towards providing improved speed of erection and access to a casualty in an emergency situation irrespective of the terrain where the casualty is lying.

[0006] Summary of the Invention

[0007] We describe an emergency rescue tent for a casualty, the tent comprising: an inflatable frame with at least two arches extending laterally and being joined by longitudinal struts, and an inflation port, and in which: the arches terminate in ground-engaging feet, and the arches form gable ends, a tent cover configured to fit over the frame, wherein the cover and frame are open at a base of the tent to allow the tent to be placed over a casualty, and wherein: the cover is elongate, having first and second opposed gable ends joined by a curved intermediate section, there is an openable access panel in at least one gable end and a plurality of openable side panels in the intermediate section, and the longitudinal struts are at or above the level of the side panel or panels.

[0008] In some preferred examples, the frame comprises three arches, one at each end and one located between the ends, preferably mid-way between the ends. In some preferred examples, the cover comprises at a side access panel in each gap between arches, two side access panels on each side.

[0009] In some preferred examples, the struts do not include struts on a ridge line central longitudinal axis linking top portions of the arches. In some preferred examples, the longitudinal struts on each side are located on an axis which is within 25% of the tent lateral width from a side of the tent. In some preferred examples, the frame does not include struts laterally across at least one gable end arch. In some preferred examples, the feet comprise webs (21) which are preferably triangular to extend outwardly and downwardly. The frame may comprise a fabric ring extending around and under the feet. The fabric ring may comprise eyelets for ground engagement.

[0010] In some preferred examples, the tent comprises at least one ground flexible strap with a length of flexible material and a fastener part for releasable connection to a foot, whereby a strap may be removed or retained away from ground contact so that the tent is open at ground level. Preferably, there is a flexible strap (210) between each juxtaposed pair of feet around the circumference of the tent.

[0011] In some preferred examples, the cover comprises a fastener part for engagement with a fastener part of a ground strap to hold the ground strap in an upright manner when it is not required to extend between feet.

[0012] In some preferred examples, the tent comprises at least one anchor strap with an eyelet and arranged to extend laterally from a foot. In some preferred examples, at least one side panel is foldable upwardly to be retained open. In some preferred examples, the cover comprises transparent material windows, wherein at least one window is located in a top part of the cover, and optionally at least one panel incorporates a window.

[0013] In some preferred examples, the tent further comprises a blanket for covering a casualty for heat retention. In some preferred examples, the blanket has a foil layer for heat reflection, suitable for an alternative use in reflecting heat from above the casualty in hot weather, and wherein the blanket is configured for use as a ground sheet.

[0014] In some preferred examples, the tent further comprises an internal liner and fasteners to detachably secure the liner to the cover or the frame. In some preferred examples, the tent further comprises at least one bag and a fastener for releasably securing the bag to the tent cover to hold the tent cover down when a heavy item is placed in the bag and the bag is fastened to the cover. Preferably, the fastener comprises a fastener part on the cover and a releasable fastener part on a strap or cable on the bag. Preferably, the cover fastener part is located at least 5 cm above level of the frame feet. Preferably, there is a bag fastener part on each lateral side of each gable end.

[0015] In some preferred examples, the cover forms a sleeve around at least one frame element.

[0016] In some preferred examples, the frame comprises a plurality of inflation ports, including a port for manual connection of a pump, and a gas canister filling device. In some preferred examples, there are at least two gas canister filling ports each having a canister for filling a portion of the gas required to fully inflate the frame. Preferably, the gas canister ports are on arches of the frame.

[0017] We also describe an emergency rescue tent for a casualty, the tent comprising an inflatable frame with feet and a tent cover configured to fit over the frame, wherein the cover comprises a plurality of panels which are openable to provide access by medical personnel and the cover and frame are open at a base of the tent to allow the tent to be placed over a person.

[0018] In some preferred examples, the frame comprises a series of at least two arches defining opposed gable ends. In some preferred examples, the frame comprises three arches, one at each end and one located mid way between the ends. In some preferred examples, the frame comprises inflatable struts between the arches. In some preferred examples, the arches and the struts are interconnected for inflation as a single entity.

[0019] In some preferred examples, the feet comprise webs which are preferably triangular to extend outwardly and downwardly.

[0020] In some preferred examples, at least one foot is configured to fit to an end of an inflatable section of the frame such as an end of an arch.

[0021] In some preferred examples, the frame comprises a fabric ring extending around and under the feet. In some preferred examples, the fabric ring comprises eyelets for ground engagement. In some preferred examples, the cover is elongate, having first and second opposed gable ends joined by a curved intermediate section, and there is an openable access panel in each gable end and a plurality of panels in the intermediate section.

[0022] In some preferred examples, there is a plurality of side panels. In some preferred examples, the cover comprises transparent material windows. In some preferred examples, at least one window is located in a top part of the cover. In some preferred examples, at least one panel incorporates a window. In some preferred examples, there is at least one panel at each side.

[0023] In some preferred examples, the cover comprises a lower skirt which is flared to surround the feet. In some preferred examples, the tent further comprising a blanket for covering a casualty for heat retention.

[0024] In some preferred examples, the blanket has a foil layer for heat reflection, suitable for an alternative use in reflecting heat from above the casualty in hot weather. In some preferred examples, the blanket is configured for use as a ground sheet.

[0025] Preferably, the frame struts do not include struts at ground level, for example between the feet. Preferably, the struts are do not include struts on a central axis linking upper portions of the arches. Preferably, the struts on each side are located on an axis which in plan view is within 25%, of the tent width from a side of the tent. They are therefore close to being directly above the line of the feet and can support an opened panel and provide good support for the curved roof of the cover.

[0026] Preferably, the tent comprises at least one flexible strap with a length of flexible material and a fastener for releasable connection to a foot, whereby a strap may be removed or retained away from ground contact so that the tent is open at ground level. This allows a responder to remain in place alongside a patient as the tent is lowered down over the patient. Preferably at least one strap interconnects two feet and there is a fastener on at least one end.

[0027] Preferably, there is a flexible strap between each juxtaposed pair of feet around the circumference of the tent. Preferably, at least one eyelet is at the end of a strap arranged to extend laterally from a foot. Preferably, at least one side panel is foldable upwardly to be retained open.

[0028] The tent may further comprise an internal liner and fasteners to detachably secure the liner to the cover or the frame. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0029] The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description of some embodiments thereof, given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0030] Fig. 1 is an exploded view of a rescue tent of the invention,

[0031] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the tent when fully assembled, and Fig. 3 is a similar view with the entry panels opened which indicates the extent of convenient access provided for first responders or medical personnel,

[0032] Figs. 4 and 5 are perspective views showing deployment of the tent to cover a casualty who is lying on the ground, on an optional ground sheet, and in particular Fig. 5 shows all of the tent’s panels open for access to all sides of the casualty,

[0033] Figs. 6(a), (b), and (c) are plan, side and end views respectively showing the shelter / tent after it has been deployed for a casualty and in which end panels have been opened for access to the casualty,

[0034] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the tent in the use shown in Figs. 6(a), (b), and (c), showing access to feet through this particular panel,

[0035] Figs. 8 is an underneath perspective view of the tent showing use of magnetic poles to provide additional strength at ground level if the terrain / ground is unsuitable for pegs,

[0036] Fig. 9(a) is a side view showing the frame, and Fig. 9(b) is an enlarged view of part of Fig. 9(a) showing a foot of the frame in more detail, Fig. 9(c) is a perspective view of the frame and Fig. 9(d) is an enlarged view of part of this drawing also showing a foot in more detail,

[0037] Fig. 11(a) is a perspective view of the tent and Figs. 11(b), (c), and (d) are enlarged views of parts of Fig. 11(a) showing, respectively, frame ground eyelets, a handle, and window fasteners in more detail, and Fig. 12(a) is a plan view of the tent, Fig. 12(b) is a side sectional view in the direction of the arrows A-A of Fig. 12(a), Fig. 12(c) is an enlarged view of part of the sectional view showing a frame joint in more detail, and Fig. 12(d) is also an enlarged view of part of Fig. 12(b), showing a window fastener in more detail,

[0038] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of an alternative tent, showing one panel lifted and retained open and the tent being clear at aground level so that it may be lowered over a casualty with a responder remaining in place alongside the casualty,

[0039] Fig. 14 is a cross sectional view across a frame vertical element, showing an inner frame element tube material which is inflated and a surrounding sleeve of tent cover material,

[0040] Fig. 15 is a perspective view of an alternative tent, in this case illustrating a feature for holding the tent down where the terrain does not allow pegs, and

[0041] Fig. 16 is a perspective view of an inflated frame on a tent of on example, showing particularly the locations of inflation valves and an over-pressure relief valve..

[0042] Detailed Description of the Embodiments

[0043] Referring to Fig. 1 an emergency rescue tent 1 is illustrated, which is configured to shelter a single injured person on the ground while allowing emergency responders access to any area on the injured person’s body who requires assistance or privacy. The tent 1 is configured to fit comfortably over one person, and in this case has a length in the longitudinal direction of 2.1 m, a width across the lateral dimension of 1.2 m, and a height up to a ridge line of 2.2 m. In other examples these dimensions may be in the ranges of 2.0 to 2.5 m, 1.0 to 1.3 m, and 1.0 to 1.4 m respectively.

[0044] The tent 1 comprises an inflatable frame 10 and a cover 50, joined together always during deployment. The frame 10 comprises a series of vertical ribs or arches 11, 12, and 13 interconnected by horizontal struts 14, 15, 16, and 17. The ribs and the struts are interconnected so that they can be inflated via a single inflation port or multiple ports, not shown. The inflation port / valve is preferably on one of the arches. The ports may have a valve of any of the types well known in the rescue industry for inflatable emergency equipment such as life vests. An example is Sioen™ lifejackets. As is clear from Fig. 1, the fabric is attached and stays with the frame at all times; it is removed only for cleaning / disposal or recycling. The inflation can be, but is not limited to, CO2 inflation.

[0045] Each arch has a pair of ends engaging in ground-engaging feet 20, each having four triangular fabric webs 21 at equal 90° separations to provide sable support for each ground-engaging end of the arch. Also, there is a rectangular fabric ring 25 of lengths of planar flexible material 26 to which the feet 20 are attached, and which itself can be attached to the ground by way of eyelets 28. There are two eyelets 28 at each corner and one at each intermediate foot 20.

[0046] The material of the inflatable arches and struts is elastomeric material such as PVC or TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) that may in some examples be coated or covered in Polyester, Nylon or other recyclable material to act as protection from puncture and provide UV protection.

[0047] The frame 10 is packed and folded as a unit including all equipment required to erect it and requires no further work other than to attach a gas or air supply, and indeed in some embodiments this may be supplied already connected and ready for use. Pegging down may be done if needed. The tent may also include a lamp on the outside for visibility / location, such as an LED lamp.

[0048] The gas supply for inflation may be attached, with an option to pull a cord, press a button, or turn a dial.

[0049] The cover 50 is of any suitable flexible material 51, which may have a waterproof coating such as PU or Silicone. The material 51 may be of the type which may be used in any commercially available tent, and it is shaped with a gable end 52, a curved section 53 to overlie the frame 10, and a second gable end 54. Each gable end has a panel 60 and there are two side panels 61 and 62 on each side, allowing full perimeter access, and two top transparent windows 63 and 64. Advantageously, the frame 10 only has horizontal (longitudinal) struts above the level of the side panels, only two lines of struts. This means that the panels 61 and 62 are uninterrupted by inflated struts at or near ground level, the struts 14-17 are above the level of the side panels. Moreover, there is no top ridge line strut, and so the top panels 62 and 64 are uninterrupted. Also, there are no struts at or near ground level and across the ends, thereby providing full access to the casualty at the ends. These aspects are shown clearly in Fig. 3 for example. There are six access locations where a responder can access the casualty without interruption by the frame. Also, by having longitudinal struts above the level of the side panels but not as far as the ridge line (top) of the tent there is excellent support for the panels when open, also as shown in Fig. 3. The panels are provided closed and secured to the fabric 51 of the cover, but each may be opened to allow access through an opening which it covers. The material may be canvas, Polyester or Nylon (preferably ripstop cross thread to prevent tear). Polyesters are preferably of the HT (High Tenacity) type. Nylon is lighter and may be used where low weight is particularly important. Base fabric such as PE or Nylon Materials are preferably coated with acrylic, Polyurethane or Silcone or other to make them waterproof.

[0050] The material 51 is windproof and waterproof and tear, rip and puncture resistant. Preferably also, in some examples the material is anti-fungus, and / or anti-mildew, provides UV protection and / or can be produced in recyclable material. It is to be noted that the tent is not intended for long term use, merely to provide shelter and privacy to a casualty at the scene of the incident.

[0051] The cover 50 also has a flared skirt 55 around the bottom edge and surrounding the brace plates 21 which face outwardly. Advantageously, this allows the ground perimeter to be covered, so when a responder kneels in, this area is dry.

[0052] The cover 50 is provided when packed as a unitary item with the frame. Advantageously, the responder only needs to open the tent, peg it down and then sets off the inflation method.

[0053] Fig. 2 shows the tent 1 when fully assembled and the panels closed. The panels are opened in each area to gain access and Fig. 3 shows the tent 1 with all of the panels open to indicate the extent of convenient access provided.

[0054] The convenience and accessibility are also illustrated in Figs. 4 and 5, showing deployment of the tent to cover a casualty who requires medical assistance or is incapacitated on the ground, with the option to use a ground sheet only if possible. The ground sheet is provided as part of the tent, but it need not be so as in some situations it may not be possible to move the casualty due to injuries or medical requirements. The tent is configured to fit over a single person when incapacitated or unable to move or requiring a long wait time for medical services. It may for example be internally 2 m long by 1 m wide but can be wider and / or longer if required. In one example the opening within the ground ring 25 is 190 cm long x 80 cm wide, the whole tent at its widest may be 2.5 m x 1.4 m, and 1.1 5 m to highest point. This allows the casualty to sit up (if able to) and also enough room for responders access the casualty when they are lying inside. Figs. 6(a), (b), and (c) and Fig. 7 show the tent after it has been deployed for a casualty and in which panels have been opened for access to the casualty. The gable end panels provide access to the feet or head as applicable as these are often the critical body parts for the medical assessors. The four side panels allow access to all other areas of the casualty from both sides. As this covers the full perimeter access, responders can access the head, the chest, arms, and the legs on both sides. As noted above, there is full access at six locations without interruption by inflated struts, and the horizontal struts provide excellent support for the side panels 61 and 62. The lengths of fabric 25 will fall onto whatever the ground level is and will not impose any particular shape to the plane of the feet. The webs 21 provide good connection to the fabric 25 and links to the eyelets 28.

[0055] The tent has clear transparent plastics at specific points which act as windows, in this example windows 63 and 63 in the top. The primary purpose of these transparent pieces is to reduce anxiety and or claustrophobia for the individual, and the panels which will open are to allow access by responders from key areas. Some or all of the panels may also incorporate transparent material to act as windows, and this is shown in the side panels 61 and 62.

[0056] Figs. 8 is an underneath perspective view of the tent showing use of poles 90 which may be attached to the tent floor ring 25 by engagement with the eyelets 28 to provide additional strength at ground level if required. This is optional and used in situations where rescue agencies or users may require the tent to be erected on hard surfaces with no ability to enter pins as the surface is hard.

[0057] In instances where the tent is carried onto a sports pitch for example, pegs are not ideal. Here the poles 90 will help to keep structure, allow the tent to be left down without pegs and then lifted off.

[0058] Figs. 9(a) and 9(b) show a foot 20 of the frame in more detail from the side view direction and Figs. 9(c) and 9(d) show the foot in more detail in perspective view. The tent will arrive prepacked in a carry bag. Once the tent is removed from the bag, unfolded, and inflated, it can then be lowered down over the individual before securing it to the ground using pegs provided (or other methods such as weights on hard ground where pegs are not an option). It is very advantageous that at ground level there are no inflated struts, and so the feet 20 can be at different levels allowed by the flexibility of the frame given that there are no ground-level struts to force the feet into a single plane. The tent has a weight of only about 3 to 5 kg which leaves it very easy to transport on foot by any individuals. The tent size can be larger in other embodiments, with the features of sheltering a casualty or maybe two casualties and allowing access by responders. Once in place, tent pegs can be used to secure the tent. If the ground is too hard or unsuitable for pegs, other methods will be considered to secure.

[0059] Figs. 11(a), (b), (c), and (d) show the frame ground eyelets 28, a handle 70 and a hook-and-loop fastener 90 which is present at each side of each panel. The handles allow for ease of manoeuvrability of the shelter when erected. The door fasteners are plastics hooks through loops of fabric webbing (nylon webbing as example). A single lift of each hook up to the loop by the handle allows quick opening. This could be achieved in several alternative ways including hook and loop (Velcro™) or ties, or magnets.

[0060] Figs. 12(a) and 12(d) show a frame joint and fastener 110 linking each foot 20 to the frame arch. This is an eyelet to receive the ball on the end of a cord or bungee, so the ball is pressed through and is maintained by the eyelet. In other examples any suitable means of connecting may be used.

[0061] Referring to Fig. 13, in another example a tent 200 comprises a frame 250 with three arches 201, 202, and 203 (positions indicated, but some hidden by the cover) and two pairs of integral longitudinal struts akin to the struts 15 / 17 and 14 / 16. The pair of struts on each side form a longitudinal support in a line which is close to being vertically above the line of the feet on that side. In general, in the lateral dimension the axis of the struts is closer to a line of the feet than a central longitudinal (ridge) line. By having two pairs of struts arranged in this manner as shown for the tents 1 and 200 there is excellent structural integrity for helping to maintain the overall arched shape of the cover and for providing support for the panels on each side.

[0062] Moreover, the lower ends of the arches provide feet 205, and they are only connected to other feet by removable straps 210. Each strap has a ribbon 211 and a snap-fit fastener 212 at each end. The fasteners 212 may be easily decoupled to leave nothing at ground level between two feet, as is illustrated for the near right side of the tent 200 as shown in Fig. 13. This allows the inflated tent to be lowered over a casualty with a responder remaining in position alongside the casualty, provided the panel 230 at that location has been lifted and retained by fasteners 231 in its upper folded position, in this example by way of hook-and-loop fasteners 231. The strap 210 is also retained in a vertical position by engagement of the fastener 212 with a corresponding fastener component 213 on the tent cover.

[0063] Also, because the feet are only interconnected at ground level by flexible members such as straps (211 in this example, 26 in another example) the feet may be positioned upon deployment at different horizontal levels, which is convenient for rough ground.

[0064] Also, there is a flexible anchor strap 220 extending laterally from each foot 205 and terminating in an eyelet 28, akin to that of the tent 1. This allows the feet to be anchored to the ground by pegs, or if the ground is hard, by a heavy object to hold it down. There is no need for guy wires and the attendant trip hazard.

[0065] Another major advantage of the frame arrangement is that the volume of the frame is kept low, there being only the three arches and the two lines of longitudinal struts 14-17, without groundlevel members at the sides or the ends. Hence the inflation may be performed quickly, in a matter of seconds. Moreover, a relatively small inflation gas canister may be used, and it is envisaged that two small CO2 canisters of each less than 50 g may be used, thereby improving safety in transport of the tent and its inflation gas supply.

[0066] Also, as shown in Fig. 14, the tent cover 260 forms a sleeve 260 around some of the frame member tubes 270, especially the arch portions which terminate in the feet. This is shown for the arch 251. Fasteners 261 seal the outer sleeve in place, and these may be zips for example. This provides additional structural strength to the frame without adding to the frame volume and hence the extent of gas required for inflation. Moreover, it also provides a second enclosure sealing the frame elements, so that the frame remains inflated for a period even in the event of a tube skin being punctured. In this example the frame element outer diameter is in the range of 75 mm to 80 mm and the skin thickness is about 0.5 mm.

[0067] In one example the diameter of each frame tube 270 when inflated is about 75-80 mm. The material may be PVC, TPU or TPE (preference is TPU), or other suitable flexible thermoplastics material. The tent cover outer sleeve that contains and protects the bladder (frame element) can be Nylon or PE for example (any common tent material) and is preferably coated. This protects against puncture and holds shape. There is a zip fastening 261 along the length of the sleeve 260, but there are different ways this can be attached around. Zips allow access back in to repair / replace, however it could alternatively be stitched, Velcro or other joining means. These drawings also show the structural benefits of having frame longitudinal members which are closer in the lateral dimension (across the longitudinal axis) to the line of the feet than a central axis, providing support for the tent cover 260 to maintain an arched shape, supporting the panels 230 when opened to allow responder access, and allowing windows 235 (or 63, 64) along the central (ridge) axis without the line of sight being broken by central ridge frame struts.

[0068] Referring to Fig. 15 an alternative tent 300 has many features in common with the tent 200 and like parts are given the same reference numerals. In this case there are fasteners 301 secured to the cover at a height of about 10 cm above the level of the feet. The tent apparatus also includes four lightweight bags 302 with carrying handles 304 and having fastener straps 303 to releasably engage the snap fit fastener parts 301. Any convenient object can be inserted into one or more of the bags to weigh it down and help to maintain the tent in position via the strap 303 and fastener 301. It will be appreciated that the bags add very little weight when transported and yet can be very effective at holding the tent down in windy and / or uneven terrain conditions. The fasteners 301 may be at the level of the feet, but it is preferred that they are at least 5 cm above the foot level, and more preferably in the range of 5 cm to 20 cm. By being above the foot level then can apply a retaining force with a greater vertical component.

[0069] Advantageously the fastener 301 is adjustable so there is not too much pressure down, just enough to keep hold. The bags provide large areas to allow any weight to be added (or even for people to stand on if necessary) in higher winds (short term). The bags 302 could advantageously be used for example on a beach, on snow, on a road, a footpath, a hard floor, a building site / hotel or anywhere that pegs are not useful (ground too hard or ground too soft). Materials to fill could be sand or stones for example. When weight is added, a draw string (not shown) may be pulled to creates a closed volume. This can be (A) filled when connected to the tent and then closed, or (B) filled away from the tent and carried to the tent to attach. The handles 304 are useful for.

[0070] The fasteners 301 could be provided at each side of each gable end but could be put above all six feet.

[0071] Referring to Fig. 16 in another example an inflatable frame 400 comprises a first gable end arch 411, a central arch 412, and a second gable end arch 413. The arches are interconnected by two longitudinal lines of struts, on one side aligned struts 415 and 417 and on the other side aligned struts 414 and 416. As for the other embodiments the longitudinal struts are not at or adjacent the feet (ends of the arches) and are not along the top ridge line. They are located on either side of the ridge, closer in the lateral dimension to the feet than to the ridge line. That way they provide adequate support to the arches while allowing sufficient flexibility for vertical level of the feet to accommodate uneven terrain. As for the other embodiments they also provide good support for side panels for emergency responder access and don’t cross the space of any of these access locations.

[0072] In this example the inflation valves are shown. There is a manual inflation valve 450 for connection to a foot pump or other manual pump, or an electrical pump, for fallback use. There is also an over-pressure valve 451 to limit pressure to about 40 kPa, and this is preferably in the range of 40 kPa to 55 kPa.

[0073] There are also two CO2 inflating devices 455, one on the arch 411 and the other on the arch 412. Each device 455 has a valve 456, a pull cord 447, and a canister 458. Pulling the cord acts on a lever which pushes a pin through the end of the canister to release the CO2.

[0074] In one example one canister may have say 60 g of CO2 and the other 40 g, however the split may be 50 g / 50 g. In another example, both have 100 g, or other full amount, and the other one is either not present or is a back-up only. Where a frame has a canister device 455 there may not be a manual valve 450 and vice versa. However, it is preferred to have both.

[0075] The CO2 canister devices 455 can inflate the frame in about 8 seconds. Advantageously, there is speed in critical situations, the emergency responders just pull cord and can tend to the casualty.

[0076] Use and Advantageous Features

[0077] The inflatable emergency rescue tent 1 is intended to provide individuals with protection and privacy in any environment, particularly in emergency situations where medical assistance is needed. The tent aims to safeguard the well-being, privacy and dignity of both patients and medical professionals by shielding them from the public and social media and weather elements while stabilising the individual. The shelter is easily deployable and retractable, offering a safe and secure environment for medical treatment, regardless of whether it is needed indoors or outdoors. Its versatility makes it suitable for a variety of uses, including hikers, walkers, individuals with disabilities, marine and emergency services, the sports sector, rescue agencies, police and accident departments and in the general public environment such as airports or centres. Additionally, it can also be utilized in fatality situations to protect the individual's dignity at pace in any fatality situations.

[0078] The tent is a particularly effective aid to help complying with the desire for protecting the privacy, wellbeing and dignity of the person or medical supports given or requiring medical assistance. It is lightweight, providing ease of transportation. There is rapid inflation and deflation with minimal effort required. This contributes to the responders tending to the casualty, an example being hands free inflation; the responders can do their job and not be distracted by the assembly. It can be easily erected near the casualty and placed over him or her, to avoid moving him or her and reduces the possibility of causing further injury.

[0079] The inflatable arch and strut arrangement, together with the feet 20 avoid need for guy ropes, to help improve health and safety. Advantageously, there is entry from some or all sides for easy access by rescue or medical teams. Any of the fabric or any of the panels may be of transparent material strategically placed to reduce anxiety or claustrophobia for the casualty. Windows also allow visibility and monitoring of the casualty.

[0080] The tent provides excellent versatility for visibility in by medical personnel and out by the patient, for example the top window visibility. Opening of a gable end panel allows responders to have access to the person’s feet or head or anywhere along the body from the side panels for medics. Overall, the combination of panels provides 360° access for responders, they only need to open the area they need access to. This access is not interrupted by the frame, and the location of the axial struts provides comprehensive support for the panels. All of these features are very advantageous in emergency conditions.

[0081] Advantageously, the invention avoids need for guy ropes thereby improving access and safety required around the tent by multiple responders in potentially dark settings and avoiding trip hazards and also reduces the need to continue making the area scene safe as more support personal arrive.

[0082] The tent advantageously provides a perimeter with a large enough rectangular space removed to lower over an any casualty. The ground sheet is separate and may be used if applicable. This is in a scenario where casualty cannot be moved (or can only be moved a minimal amount). If the casualty can be moved or rolled safely, they can be put onto the ground sheet first, so they are further protected from the environment (such as damp / cold from ground). If they cannot be moved, the tent can be just lowered over.

[0083] After use, the tent can be deflated by releasing the air and it can also be fully disassembled to replace or clean any element.

[0084] It will be appreciated that in various examples of the invention the tent provides protection from elements (such as rain, cold, heat, sun, wind etc.). It keeps the user warm in cold environment. Also, importantly, it prevents visibility of a casualty from onlookers, protecting dignity and offering privacy. Also, it helps reduce feeling of claustrophobia / anxiety in the casualty by having a number of large panels and windows designed in key areas. It allows physical access to any injured area of the casualty. This means that the area can be attended, without opening other parts of the tent so there is little heat loss. The focused entry points around the full perimeter are very important, and the tent allows visibility of the casualty to allow monitoring by responders, and the casualty can see responders to reduce anxiety feel comfort and get attention if needed.

[0085] The tent may be used for preserving scenes of crimes. In such use the tent may additionally have an inner liner which is attached at multiple locations to the frame and / or the cover. This inner liner may be retained for evidential purposes after use, or it may be disposed of.

[0086] Summary of Key Features and Advantages

[0087] The tent provide protection from weather elements keeping the user warm in cold environment And preventing visibility of casualty from onlookers thereby protecting dignity and privacy. The rescue tent helps to reduce feeling of claustrophobia / anxiety in the casualty by having a number of windows to see out (see open air & see responders), and also because of the doors.

[0088] The rescue tent gives physical access to any injured area of the casualty, via the panels / doors. The side panels can provide full side access to the casualty and end panels access to the feet and head areas. This means that the area can be attended, without opening large areas / door, so reducing heat loss and helping prevent visibility. The focused entry points around full perimeter are very advantageous. These features also allow visibility of the casualty from outside close proximity to allow monitoring by responders, and the casualty can see responders to feel comfort and also get attention if needed. Also, the tent is configured so that it may be conveniently lowered over the casualty. In embodiments with removable straps along ground level between the feet the tent can be lowered over the casualty with a responder remaining in position to perform for example CPR. This is particularly convenient if the tent cover has covers / doors which can be lifted to provide a gap in the cover which extends all of the way to ground level and it is completely open at ground level (as shown in in the near right hand side of the tent 200 in Fig. 13).

[0089] The tent is quick to deploy, with minimal attention / effort by responders. This minimises the amount of time / effort to erect, so that the responders are not distracted from attending to the casualty. It is particularly advantageous that the volume of the frame is minimised, allowing a small extent of inflating gas and short inflation time.

[0090] Avoidance of guy ropes s very advantageous, allowing better access around the area by responders and avoiding a potential a trip hazard and reducing time to deploy.

[0091] The tent is suitable for use during only a short duration, not intended as overnight. It could conveniently be only used for a few minutes on a sports pitch or maybe up to a few hours if in a rescue situation while waiting for means of transport.

[0092] In the examples where the tent cover forms sleeves (such as the sleeves 260) around the frame elements (for example 270), the frame is particularly strong without needing a large volume for inflation.

[0093] Alternative Embodiments

[0094] Components of embodiments can be employed in other embodiments in a manner as would be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. The invention is not limited to the embodiments described but may be varied in construction and other environments and detail. A tent of the invention may include a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) which is used in the marine environment to track casualties, and this may be attached to any of the cover 50 or the frame 10. Also, a tent may include a LED Light for guiding and signalling rescuers the exact location from the air or ground. The removable ground sheet may include a foil layer (or layers). In cold or freezing conditions this can be put over the individual to retain heat to prevent hypothermia. In hot conditions this same sheet could be draped over the tent to deflect heat from the sun and provide a cooler shelter to reduce risk of heat stroke. The tent may include both a ground sheet and a blanket to provide for both dryness under the casualty and heat retention or reflection over the casualty.

[0095] Inflation has multiple options including a battery powered fan or compressor, compressed air / gas canister or any commonly used battery powered pump (fan). Any of these would allow ‘self inflation’ as they can be left alone to inflate and will require no manual input. For the CO2 inflation the mechanism may include a pull cord or trigger for fast deployment (like life jacket). There may be over-pressure valve, so at a certain pre-determined pressure the valve will start to leave excess air out. A backup of a foot or other manual pump inflator may be used or provided.

[0096] In some examples, the tent may incorporate a GPS / or a transmitter and / which allows then location to be identified rapidly and easily.

Claims

Claims1. An emergency rescue tent (1) for a casualty, the tent comprising: an inflatable frame (10) with at least two arches (11, 12, 13) extending laterally and being joined by longitudinal struts (14, 15, 16, 17), and an inflation port, and in which: the arches terminate in ground-engaging feet (20, 205), and the arches (11, 13) form gable ends, a tent cover (50) configured to fit over the frame, wherein the cover and frame are open (25) at a base of the tent to allow the tent to be placed over a casualty, and wherein: the cover (50) is elongate, having first and second opposed gable ends (52, 54) joined by a curved intermediate section (53), there is an openable access panel (60) in at least one gable end and a plurality of openable side panels (61-64) in the intermediate section, and the longitudinal struts (14-17) are at or above the level of the side panel or panels.

2. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in claim 1, wherein the frame comprises three arches, one (11, 13) at each end and one (12) located mid way between the ends.

3. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in claim 2, wherein the cover comprises at a side access panel (61, 62) in each gap between arches, two side access panels on each side.

4. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the struts (14-16) do not include struts on a ridge line central longitudinal axis linking top portions of the arches.

5. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the longitudinal struts on each side are located on an axis which is within 25% of the tent lateral width from a side (205, 20) of the tent.

6. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the frame does not include struts laterally across at least one gable end arch (11, 13).

7. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the feet comprise webs (21) which are preferably triangular to extend outwardly and downwardly.

8. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the frame comprises a fabric ring (25) extending around and under the feet.

9. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in claim 8, wherein the fabric ring comprises eyelets (22, 28) for ground engagement.

10. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in any preceding claim, comprising at least one ground flexible strap (210) with a length (211) of flexible material and a fastener (212) for releasable connection to a foot, whereby a strap (210) may be removed or retained away from ground contact.

11. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in claim 10, wherein there is a flexible strap (210) between each juxtaposed pair of feet around the circumference of the tent.

12. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the cover comprises a fastener part (212) for engagement with a fastener part of a ground strap to hold the ground strap (211) in an upright manner when it is not required to extend across an access panel (230).

13. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in any preceding claim, comprising at least one anchor strap (220) with an eyelet (28) and arranged to extend laterally from a foot.

14. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein at least one side panel (230) is foldable upwardly to be retained open.

15. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the cover (50) comprises transparent material windows (63, 64), wherein at least one window (63, 64) is located in a top part of the cover, and optionally at least one panel incorporates a window.

16. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising a blanket for covering a casualty for heat retention.

17. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in claim 16, wherein the blanket has a foil layer for heat reflection, suitable for an alternative use in reflecting heat from above the casualty in hot weather, and wherein the blanket is configured for use as a ground sheet.

18. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising an internal liner and fasteners to detachably secure the liner to the cover or the frame.

19. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising at least one bag (302) and a fastener (303) for releasably securing the bag to the tent cover to hold the tent cover down when a heavy item is placed in the bag and the bag is fastened to the cover.

20. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in claim 19, wherein the fastener comprises a fastener part (301) on the cover and a releasable fastener part on a strap or cable on the bag.

21. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in claim 20, wherein the cover fastener part (301) is located at least 5 cm above level of the frame feet.

22. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in any of claims 19 to 21, wherein there is a bag fastener part (301) on each lateral side of each gable end.

23. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the cover forms a sleeve (260) around at least one frame element (270).

24. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the frame comprises a plurality of inflation ports, including a port (450) for manual connection of a pump, and a gas canister filling device (455).

25. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in claim 24, wherein there are at least two gas canister filling ports (455) each having a canister for filling a portion of the gas required to fully inflate the frame.

26. An emergency rescue tent as claimed in claim 25, wherein the gas canister ports are on arches (411, 412) of the frame

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