Camping accessory inflation system
Patent Information
- Application Number
- ES2023702198T
- Authority / Receiving Office
- ES · ES
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2022-01-19
- Filing Date
- 2023-01-19
- Publication Date
- 2026-09-15
- Estimated Expiration
- 2043-01-19
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
Camping accessory inflation system Field of invention The present invention relates to an inflatable camping accessory system and a method for providing an inflatable camping accessory system. In particular, the present invention relates to a camping assembly that defines a sheltered internal area and also to a method for inflating a camping accessory. Background of the invention Tents, folding campervans such as camper trailers, and camping accessories such as awnings or gazebos can be complex or time-consuming to erect, for example, when these structures have to be assembled from a number of parts. Such parts can be easily damaged during assembly or in use, for example, by impacts or strong winds. To address these problems, these structures can include inflatable parts, which allow the structures to be erected by inflating the inflatable parts using a source of pressurized air, such as a pump. With this arrangement, minimal assembly of parts can be required. One disadvantage of using inflatable parts is that a pump or other source of pressurized air must be carried to the campsite by the user. For larger inflatable structures (such as a family inflatable tent), a hand-operated pump may not be practical, meaning that a motorized (e.g., electric) pump and power source are also required, which can be bulky and / or noisy. Furthermore, where multiple inflatable structures are used, a separate source of pressurized air is needed, which must be compatible for connecting to each inflatable structure in turn. Patent AU 2018204104 discloses a motorhome trailer with an air-inflatable tent and annex, featuring a connector between the tent and the inflatable elements of the annex. The connector allows the inflatable elements to be inflated from a single air source. WO 2014 / 080391 discloses a modular inflatable personal shelter. The personal shelter is generally arched or parabolic in shape with flat sides and consists of an inflatable mattress in fluid communication with an upper inflatable internal frame that rises from it. It is against this background that the present invention is conceived. It is an object of the present invention to overcome at least one problem associated with the prior art, whether referred to herein or otherwise. Summary of the invention According to a first aspect of the present invention, a camping assembly is provided comprising an inflatable camping structure comprising a network of inflatable air poles, the inflatable camping structure comprising a donor valve in an air pole for releasing air from the inflatable camping structure; and wherein the donor valve is configured to be connected to an inflation valve of an inflatable camping accessory in order to inflate the inflatable camping accessory with air from the inflatable camping structure, and characterized by: The inflatable camping structure is in an inflated configuration and the inflatable camping accessory is in a deflated configuration, and the inflation of the inflatable camping accessory is achieved exclusively with air contained within the inflatable camping structure in the absence of introducing any additional air into the inflatable camping structure. Preferably, the inflatable camping structure is in a fully inflated configuration and the inflatable camping accessory is in a fully deflated configuration, and the inflation of the inflatable camping accessory is achieved exclusively with air contained within the inflatable camping accessory in the absence of introducing any additional air into the inflatable camping structure, for example, from a pump and through an inflation valve of the inflatable camping structure. The camping setup may include a canopy. The camping assembly may comprise a main camping structure that defines a sheltered internal area. The camping assembly (and / or main camping structure) may include an awning. The camping assembly (and / or main camping structure) may comprise one of an awning, a tent, a trailer tent, and a gazebo. The camping assembly may comprise a main camping structure and also a primary camping structure, wherein the primary camping structure comprises a caravan, a tent, and a trailer tent. Preferably, the camping assembly may comprise a main camping structure comprising an awning and also a primary camping structure, wherein the primary camping structure comprises a caravan, a tent, and a trailer tent. The awning can be detachably attached to the primary camping structure. The main camping structure (awning) may comprise a primary inflatable camping structure comprising a first interconnecting valve and the main camping structure (awning) may comprise a second interconnecting valve to define an airway between the primary inflatable camping structure and the main camping structure (awning). Preferably, one of the primary inflatable camping structure and the main camping structure (awning) is arranged to inflate the other of the primary inflatable camping structure and the main camping structure (awning). The primary camping structure may comprise an inflatable net of air poles and may include a canopy. The primary camping structure may comprise a folding campervan tent comprising a trailer, an inflatable net of air poles, and may include a canopy. The trailer may include a pump and preferably includes an electric pump. The main camping structure and preferably the awning may comprise an inflatable net of air poles and may also comprise a canopy. The primary camping structure may comprise a plurality of donor valves. The main camping structure (awning) may comprise a plurality of donor valves. An inflatable camping accessory may include one of a gazebo, a windbreak, an auxiliary tent, an inflatable splash pool, an awning, an inflatable ball, an inflatable mattress and / or an inflatable seat (such as a chair or sofa). The first and second interconnecting valves may form an airway with a control member located therein, wherein the control member may be movable between an open position and a closed position to selectively permit or prevent airflow between the primary camping structure and the main camping structure (awning). The control member may be manually movable between the open and closed positions. The primary inflatable camping structure can provide a stored air reservoir when inflated such that, when the main camping structure (awning) is connected to the primary inflatable camping structure, the main camping structure (awning) is at least partially inflated by the air stored in the primary inflatable camping structure. The main camping structure (awning) can be substantially fully inflated using only the air stored in the primary inflatable camping structure. The main camping structure (awning) can be partially inflated using the air stored in the primary inflatable camping structure. The primary inflatable camping structure may comprise an inflatable support structure. The primary inflatable camping structure may comprise a tent, an additional awning, or a gazebo. The primary inflatable camping structure may define a shelter. The primary inflatable camping structure may comprise an inflatable campervan tent or awning. The primary inflatable structure may comprise a campervan trailer tent. The camping assembly may include the inflatable camping accessory. The camping assembly may include a plurality of inflatable camping accessories. When present, the inflatable camping accessory may include an inflation valve configured to be connected to the donor valve for inflating the inflatable camping accessory. The inflatable camping accessory may include a gazebo, a windbreak, an auxiliary tent, an inflatable splash pool, an inflatable ball, an inflatable mattress and / or an inflatable seat (such as a chair or sofa). The primary inflatable camping structure may comprise a plurality of donor valves. The main camping structure (awning) may comprise a plurality of donor valves. In this way, a donor valve can be easily accessible to a user in different locations. The donor valve or each donor valve may comprise a one-way valve. The donor valve(s) may include a pressure relief valve. The pressure relief valve may be arranged to maintain a minimum pressure within the inflatable camping structure. Preferably, above the minimum pressure, the pressure relief valve may allow air to be transferred from the inflatable camping structure to the inflatable camping accessory. The main camping structure (awning) may comprise a plurality of donor valves. The donor valve(s) may be adjustable. The donor valve(s) may include a control valve configured to adjust the airflow through the donor valve. The camping assembly may include a pressurized air source configured to inflate the main camping structure (awning) and / or the primary inflatable camping structure. The pressurized air source may include a compressor, a pump, or a compressed air source such as a compressed air cartridge. The camping assembly may include (solely) a single pressurized air source. The primary inflatable camping structure may include an air source. For example, the primary inflatable camping structure may include a pump. The pump may be integral to the primary inflatable camping structure. The inflation valve(s) may be connected to the donor valve by a connector or adapter. The inflation valve(s) may be (pneumatically) connected to the donor valve by connecting means. The connecting means may comprise a threaded connection. The connecting means may comprise a quick-connect coupling. The connecting means may comprise a flexible connector such as a hose. The inflation valve(s) may be directly or rigidly connected to a donor valve. The adapter may provide a rigid connection. The camping assembly may comprise a first inflatable volume and a second inflatable volume. Preferably, the camping assembly comprises a total inflatable volume. The total inflatable volume may comprise the volume of the main camping structure (awning) and may also comprise the volume of the primary inflatable camping structure. The first inflatable volume may comprise the inflatable volume of the main camping structure (awning) and may also comprise the inflatable volume of the primary inflatable camping structure. The second inflatable volume may comprise the inflatable volume of the inflatable camping accessory(ies). The initial total volume may be (substantially) equal to the final total volume, such that no extra air is introduced. For example, no pump or other inflation means are used to introduce any extra air. The ratio of the first inflatable volume to the second inflatable volume may be 1:1 or greater, preferably 2:1 or greater, and more preferably 3:1 or greater. The ratio may be 4:1 or greater. In some examples, the ratio may be 5:1 or greater. In some examples, the ratio may be 10:1 or greater. Preferably, the inflatable volume of each inflatable camping accessory is less than the inflatable volume of the primary camping structure (awning) and / or the primary inflatable camping structure. Preferably, the inflatable volume of each inflatable camping accessory is less than 50%, preferably 25% (more preferably less than 20%), of the inflatable volume of the main camping structure (awning) and / or the primary inflatable camping structure. Preferably, the inflatable volume of the main camping structure (awning) is less than the inflatable volume of the primary inflatable camping structure. The inflatable volume of the main camping structure (awning) may be less than 50% of the inflatable volume of the primary inflatable camping structure. According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for inflating an inflatable camping accessory with air from a camping assembly, the camping assembly comprising an inflatable camping structure, wherein the inflatable camping structure comprises: a network of inflatable air poles, a donor valve on an air pole to release air from the inflatable camping structure; and where the donor valve is configured to be connected to an inflation valve of an inflatable camping accessory in order to inflate the inflatable camping accessory with air from the inflatable camping structure; Understanding the method: connect an inflation valve of the inflatable camping accessory to the donor valve of the camping assembly; and Release air from the main camping assembly characterized by: The inflatable camping structure is in an inflated configuration and the inflatable camping accessory is in a deflated configuration, and the method comprises inflating the inflatable camping accessory exclusively with air contained within the inflatable camping structure without introducing any additional air into the inflatable camping structure. Preferably, the inflatable camping structure is in a (fully) inflated configuration and the inflatable camping accessory is in a (fully) deflated configuration, and the method comprises inflating the inflatable camping accessory exclusively with air contained within the inflatable camping accessory in the absence of introducing any additional air into the inflatable camping structure, for example, from a pump and through an inflation valve of the inflatable camping structure. The method may involve regulating the air supply from the inflatable camping structure to the inflatable camping accessory using a pressure relief valve. The method may also involve maintaining the pressure in the inflatable camping structure above a predetermined minimum value, which may be required to maintain the structural integrity of the inflatable camping structure. This can prevent the collapse of the inflatable camping structure due to air supply to the inflatable camping accessory. The camping setup can define a sheltered indoor area. The camping setup may include a canopy. Preferably, the camping kit includes: a primary inflatable camping structure comprising a primary donor valve configured to release air from the primary inflatable camping structure; a main (secondary) inflatable camping structure comprising an inflation valve for inflating the main (secondary) inflatable camping structure, wherein the inflation valve is configured to be connected to the primary donor valve in order to inflate the main (secondary) inflatable camping structure with air from the primary inflatable camping structure, and wherein the camping assembly comprises a secondary donor valve for releasing air from the camping assembly, and The method comprises connecting the inflation valve of the inflatable camping accessory to the secondary donor valve of the camping assembly; and release air from the camping assembly. According to another aspect of the present invention, a camping assembly is provided comprising a sheltered inner area, the camping assembly comprising: a primary inflatable camping structure comprising a primary donor valve configured to release air from the primary inflatable camping structure; a secondary inflatable camping structure comprising an inflation valve for inflating the secondary inflatable camping structure, wherein the inflation valve is configured to be connected to the primary donor valve in order to inflate the secondary inflatable camping structure with air from the primary inflatable camping structure, wherein the camping assembly comprises a secondary donor valve for releasing air from the camping assembly; and where the secondary donor valve is configured to be connected to an inflation valve of an inflatable camping accessory in order to inflate the inflatable camping accessory with air from the camping assembly. According to a further aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for inflating an inflatable camping accessory with air from a camping assembly, the camping assembly being defined as a sheltered internal area and comprising: a primary inflatable camping structure comprising a primary donor valve configured to release air from the primary inflatable camping structure; a secondary inflatable camping structure comprising an inflation valve for inflating the secondary inflatable camping structure, wherein the inflation valve is configured to be connected to the primary donor valve in order to inflate the secondary inflatable camping structure with air from the primary inflatable camping structure, and wherein the camping assembly comprises a secondary donor valve for releasing air from the camping assembly, Understanding the method: connect an inflation valve of the inflatable camping accessory to the secondary donor valve of the camping assembly; and release air from the camping assembly. According to a further aspect of the present invention, a system of inflatable camping devices is provided, comprising: a primary inflatable device comprising a primary donor valve configured to release air from the primary inflatable device; at least one secondary inflatable device comprising an inflation valve for inflating the secondary inflatable device, and a secondary donor valve for releasing air from the secondary inflatable device; wherein the inflation valve of the secondary inflatable device is configured to be connected to the primary donor valve to inflate the secondary inflatable device with air from the primary inflatable device; and wherein the secondary donor valve is configured to be connected to an inflation valve of an inflatable device to inflate the inflatable device. According to a further aspect of the present invention, a camping assembly is provided that defines a sheltered internal area, the camping assembly comprising: a primary inflatable camping structure comprising a primary donor valve configured to release air from the primary inflatable camping structure; a secondary inflatable camping structure comprising an inflation valve for inflating the secondary inflatable camping structure, wherein the inflation valve is configured to be connected to the primary donor valve in order to inflate the secondary inflatable camping structure with air from the primary inflatable camping structure. The primary camping structure may comprise any of a caravan, a tent, or a trailer tent. The camping assembly may comprise a main camping structure that defines a sheltered inner area, and the camping assembly may comprise a primary camping structure, which may comprise a primary shelter. Brief description of the drawings The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic view of a camping assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2A is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve according to the present invention; Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve according to the present invention; Figure 3A is a cross-sectional perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve according to the present invention; Figure 3B is a cross-sectional perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve according to the present invention; and Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve according to the present invention. Description of preferred realizations The present invention provides a camping assembly 10 comprising a primary inflatable camping structure (folding trailer tent 12), a main (or secondary) inflatable camping structure (awning 18), and an inflatable camping accessory 20, 22, 24. In particular, the camping assembly 10 provides a system of inflatable camping devices. The term camping equipment is defined to include camping and / or caravanning appliances and equipment. In particular, camping equipment may include a caravan, a tent, and / or a trailer tent, or a combination thereof. The system is configured so that air can be shared among the inflatable devices, providing donor valves to release air from at least some of them. Each donor valve can be connected to an inflation valve to inflate another inflatable device. The devices can be pneumatically connected to one another. In this way, one or more devices can be inflated using air from another device that is already inflated by connecting them together. An advantage of this arrangement is that only a single source of pressurized air (e.g., a pump) is required, which can be integral to and / or embedded within one of the inflatable devices. A separate source of pressurized air, which can be inconvenient to store and transport, is not required.Instead, a primary inflatable camping structure (which may include an air source such as a built-in pump) can provide an air reservoir from which other inflatable devices can be inflated. In this way, once the primary inflatable camping structure is inflated, the main camping structure or canopy can be inflated, and can be at least partially inflated, using only the air stored in the primary inflatable camping structure, without further use of the pump. The primary inflatable camping structure or canopy (main camping structure) can then be used in a similar manner to inflate inflatable camping accessories. The inflatable devices may include inflatable elements such as air poles.As before, the awning in this example is the main camping structure and the associated tent / trailer tent (or caravan) would be the primary camping structure. In preferred embodiments, the inflatable camping structure is initially in a (fully) inflated configuration and the inflatable camping accessory is in a (fully) deflated configuration, and the inflation of the inflatable camping accessory is achieved exclusively with air contained within the inflatable camping accessory in the absence of introducing any additional air into the inflatable camping structure, for example, from a pump and through an inflation valve of the inflatable camping structure. In a first preferred embodiment, the camping assembly 10 comprises an awning 18 which is releasably secured to the side of a caravan, although in other embodiments the awning 18 can be releasably secured to the side of a folding tent / trailer tent / motorhome. The awning 18 comprises a canopy and a network of inflatable air poles 26. The awning 18 can be inflated by a removable pump, an embedded pump, or by air supplied from an additional inflatable camping structure. The awning 18 comprises a donor valve 16. The donor valve 16 is arranged to inflate a camping accessory 20, 22, 24 by donating a volume of air from the air poles 26 to the camping accessory 20, 22, 24. In this way, the camping accessory can be inflated very quickly, and the removal of air does not significantly impact the structural stability of the awning 18.This provides a readily available and accessible air source, which can be advantageous when camping, as power sources for electric pumps can be unreliable and limited. Additionally, it reduces the amount of equipment needed. This air source can be replenished as convenient and / or as required. A more complex arrangement in the form of another preferred embodiment of a camping assembly will now be described in more detail. In this arrangement, the awning 18 is attached to another inflatable camping structure 12. Additionally, the awning 18 and the inflatable camping structure 12 are connected by interconnecting valves 28, 29, such that air can be supplied between the awning 18 and the inflatable camping structure 12. In another preferred embodiment, the camping assembly comprises the awning 18 (main camping structure) and a primary inflatable camping structure comprising a folding camper van mounted on a trailer. The folding camper van comprises a network of inflatable poles to support a canopy in order to define a sheltered internal area. The trailer may provide a rigid floor, which may also be raised off the ground. The awning 18 also comprises a network of inflatable poles to support a canopy, which again defines a sheltered internal area. Finally, the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, and 24 are generally smaller (lower volume) camping devices / equipment and may, for example, comprise one or more of the following: a gazebo, a windbreak, an auxiliary tent, an inflatable splash pool, an awning, an inflatable ball, an inflatable mattress, and / or an inflatable seat (such as a chair or sofa). Figure 1 is a schematic view of a camping assembly 10 according to a first embodiment of the invention. The camping assembly 10 comprises a plurality of inflatable devices. In this embodiment, the plurality of inflatable devices comprises a plurality of inflatable camping devices. The plurality of inflatable devices comprises a primary inflatable camping structure, an awning (main camping structure), and a plurality of inflatable accessories. In this embodiment, the primary inflatable camping structure comprises a tent 12. The tent 12 comprises inflatable elements 14 (air poles), which provide an inflatable frame or support structure for the tent 12. In this embodiment, the inflatable elements 14 are generally tubular. In other embodiments, the primary inflatable camping structure may be an awning, a gazebo, or a sun canopy. When inflated, the primary inflatable camping structure provides a pressurized air reservoir, which can be used to inflate the canopy 18 (main camping structure). The primary inflatable camping structure may include a pressurized air source (not shown in Figure 1). In particular, the primary inflatable camping structure may include a pump or compressor, which may be integral with the primary inflatable camping structure. In some embodiments, the primary inflatable camping structure may include a pump module (e.g., as described below), which is connected to, or integral with, an inflatable element of the primary inflatable camping structure. The primary inflatable camping structure comprises at least one inlet or inflation valve (not shown) for inflating the primary inflatable camping structure. In other embodiments, where the primary inflatable camping structure comprises a trailer tent or camper trailer, the pressurized air source may be mounted on or incorporated into the trailer. With the arrangement described herein, the pressurized air source need not be readily accessible to a user, as other devices can be inflated by connecting them to a donor valve 16. Consequently, a pump or other air source can be more efficiently integrated with a standalone tent or trailer tent, for example, to improve space utilization or weight distribution within the tent or trailer. Conveniently, the air source can be powered by a power source of the trailer or tent. The primary inflatable camping frame and the awning 18 may comprise at least one primary donor valve 16. As can be seen in Figure 1, the tent 12 comprises two donor valves 16, and the awning comprises one donor valve 16. The donor valves 16 are provided on one of the inflatable elements 14, 26 (e.g., inflatable poles), which support the tent 12 or awning 18. In other embodiments, more or fewer donor valves 16 may be provided. For example, where the primary inflatable camping frame comprises an inflatable support structure having one or more upright supports or legs, a donor valve 16 may be provided on one or more of the legs. It should be noted that each donor valve 16 need not be located near an air source for inflating the tent 12.In this way, each of the donor valves 16 can be positioned in a location which is convenient for a user to access, and the air source can be located elsewhere, for example, to ensure that the air source is hidden or secure, and / or to reduce the noise of the air source. Each donor valve 16 is arranged to be connected to one of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24, to inflate the inflatable camping accessories with air from the awning 18 and possibly the primary inflatable camping structure 12. In this embodiment, each donor valve 16 is manually adjustable to control the airflow through the donor valve 16. In this way, the airflow through the donor valve 16 can be switched on and off, and a flow rate can be controlled. Referring to Figure 1, in this embodiment, there is an awning 18 and a plurality of inflatable camping accessories comprising a gazebo 20, a windbreak 22, and an auxiliary tent 24 (such as a shower tent or bath tent). In other embodiments, the inflatable camping accessory may (additionally or alternatively) comprise an inflatable splash pool, inflatable mattress, inflatable seat (such as a chair or sofa), or other camping accessories having inflatable elements. It should be noted that, in other embodiments, any particular inflatable camping accessory (e.g., a gazebo) may be an inflatable camping accessory. The awning 18 comprises at least one interconnection (inflation) valve 28 for inflating the awning 18. The interconnection (inflation) valve 28 is arranged to be connected to an interconnection (inflation) valve 29 provided in the primary inflatable camping structure 12. The awning 18 comprises a donor valve 16 for releasing air from the awning 18. In this embodiment, the awning 18 comprises inflatable elements 26 / air poles (an inflatable support structure), which supports a canopy (not shown) of the awning 18. The awning 18 comprises an interconnecting valve 28. The interconnecting valve 28 is provided in an inflatable element 26, for inflating the inflatable elements 26 of the awning 18. The interconnecting valve 28 is arranged to be connected to the interconnecting valve 29 of the tent 12. The awning 18 comprises the donor valve 16 for releasing air from the awning 18. The donor valve 16 is arranged to be connected to an inflation valve 17 of one of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24. In this embodiment, the donor valve 16 is identical to the interconnecting valves 28, 29. Each of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 comprises at least one inflatable element 30. Each inflatable device 20, 22, 24 is provided with an inflation valve 17. The inflation valves 17 of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 are provided in the inflatable elements 26, 30. A donor valve 16 (which in this embodiment is identical to the interconnecting valves 28, 29) is shown in Figures 2 to 4. Figures 2A, 3A, and 4 show the donor valve 16 in a closed configuration. Figures 2B and 3B show the donor valve in an open configuration. The donor valve 16 comprises a valve body 32, a spigot 34, and a control nut 36. The valve body 32 is disposed in an opening in a wall 38 of an inflatable element (such as the inflatable elements 26, 30). The valve body 32 is generally disc-shaped, having an inner side 40, which faces into an interior 42 of the inflatable element, and an opposite outer side 44, which faces away from the interior 42 of the inflatable element. The valve body 32 is sealed to the wall 38 of the inflatable element so that air can pass through the opening in the wall only through the valve body 32. For example, the valve body 32 may be fused to the wall 38 of the inflatable element (e.g., fused to an air bladder of the inflatable element). The spigot 34 is generally tubular and extends away from the outer side 44 of the valve body 32, to allow air to escape from the inflatable element.The 34 spike is arranged to be connected to the inflatable camping awning or accessory, as described below. One or more outlet passages 46 extend through the valve body 32 between the inner side 42 and the pin 34, to allow air to flow from inside the inflatable element and be released through the pin 34. As can be seen in Figures 3A and 3B, the outlet passages are arched and are provided by segments of an annular groove that passes through the valve body 32. A first portion 48 of the outlet passages 46 extends between the inner side 40 of the valve body 32 and an annular recess 50 disposed on the outer side 44 of the valve body 32. A second portion 52 of the outlet passages 46 extends (radially inward) between the annular recess 50 and a perforation in the pin 34. The annular recess 50 extends around a base of the pin 34. 50 is ready to receive part of the control nut 36.As described below, part of the control nut 36 is movable in or out of the annular recess 50 to block or open the outlet passages 46 in order to block or allow airflow through the donor valve 16. The control nut 36 is arranged on the outer (external) side 44 of the valve body 32. The control nut 36 is mounted on the pin 34. The pin 34 extends through an opening 54 in the control nut 36. A threaded outer surface of the pin 34 is arranged to engage with a corresponding threaded inner surface of the opening 54, so that the control nut 36 is threaded to the pin 34. Accordingly, turning the control nut 36 moves it toward or away from the valve body 32. A generally annular projection 56 of the control nut 36 extends into the inner side 40 of the valve body 32. The annular projection 56 is arranged to engage with the annular recess 50. In this way, it blocks the outlet passages 46 when the control nut 36 is moved to a closed position. As the control nut 36 is rotated away from the valve body 32 (to an open position), the outlet passages 46 are opened to allow air to flow from the inside 42 of the inflatable element to the pin 34. A radially inner side of the annular projection 56 comprises a tapered surface 58 which is arranged to engage with a corresponding tapered surface 60 provided on a radially inner side of the annular recess 50. A first sealing O-ring 62 is provided on the tapered surface 60 of the annular recess 50. The first O-ring 62 is disposed between the first and second portions 48, 52 of the outlet passages 46. With this arrangement, as the annular projection 56 moves into or out of engagement with the annular recess 50, the outlet passages 46 are gradually closed or opened as the tapered surfaces 58, 60 move toward or away from each other. As can be seen in Figures 2B and 3B, when the control nut 36 is moved away from the valve body 32, the outlet passages 48 are opened to allow air to flow from the inside side of the valve body into the stem.Consequently, an air flow rate through donor valve 16 can be controlled. A second sealing O-ring 64 is provided between a radially outer surface of the annular projection 56 and the annular recess 50 to prevent air from passing between the radially outer surface of the projection 56 and a surface of the annular recess 50. As the radially outer surface of the annular projection 56 moves in a direction parallel to the radially outer surface of the annular recess, these surfaces slide over one another, with the second O-ring 64 positioned between them to prevent air passage. In this way, air can only pass through the valve via the spigot 34. Consequently, air loss to the environment is prevented when the donor valve 16 is open and connected to an inflation valve or hose. The spigot 34 may be open to the outside or connected to an inflatable element of an inflatable device. In this way, the donor valve 16 provides a closable passage through which air can escape from the inflatable element. Consequently, the donor valve 16 allows air to be released from the canopy 18. It should be noted that the donor valve (when open) also allows air to flow in the opposite direction from the spigot 34 to the inside of the valve body 32. In other embodiments, the donor valve may comprise a one-way valve. In some embodiments, the donor valve may be switchable between open and closed configurations, without allowing adjustment of the flow rate. The donor valve 16 also comprises a pressure relief mechanism. Figures 2A, 2B, and 3B show the pressure relief mechanism in a closed configuration, and Figures 3A and 4 show the pressure relief mechanism in an open configuration. In this embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism comprises a movable valve member 66 in the form of a disc disposed in a chamber 68 in the valve body 32. An inlet opening 70 having a reduced diameter relative to a diameter of the chamber 68 extends between the interior 42 of the inflatable element and the chamber 68. An outlet 72 extends between chamber 68 and pin 34. The valve member 66 has a larger diameter than the inlet opening 70 and is predisposed to close the inlet opening 70 (in this example by a spring located in chamber 68). When a threshold air pressure inside the inflatable element 70 is reached, the valve member 66 is moved away from the inlet opening 70 by the air pressure (against a spring predisposition force) to open the inlet 70, allowing air to flow into chamber 68 and out through pin 34. In this way, the risk of damage to the inflatable element from excessively high pressure is reduced. In some embodiments, a pressure relief valve can be used to maintain a minimum pressure within the primary camping structure. For example, the valve might be in a closed configuration but with a donor hose / valve from the camping accessory connected to the donor valve of the primary camping structure. In this setup, air would not readily transfer from the primary camping structure to the camping accessory. However, if the pressure within the primary camping structure were to rise above the pressure relief valve's threshold, then air would be transferred from the primary camping structure to the camping accessory. In some situations, it may be desirable to donate air from the camping structure only if such air does not reduce the pressure within the camping structure below a particular value.This would therefore ensure that the primary structure would not collapse due to the addition of too much air. Such a system can also be useful in regulating pressure changes, which can occur, for example, during the heat of the day, when excess pressure can be transferred from the primary camping structure to the camping accessory and even from the camping accessory to the atmosphere, if not required. Awning 18 is arranged to be inflated with air from the primary inflatable camping structure 12, by connecting awning 18 to an interconnecting valve 29 of the primary inflatable camping structure 12. Each inflatable camping accessory 20, 22, 24 is arranged to be inflated with air from awning 18, by connecting the inflatable camping accessory 20, 22, 24 to the donor valve 16 of awning 18. Advantageously, each of the inflation valves 17 of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 can be connected to a donor valve 16 using a connector or adapter. In this embodiment, the connector comprises a flexible connector in the form of a hose 74. The connector includes connecting means configured to connect to the donor valves 16 and inflation valve 17. For example, the hose 74, donor valve 16, and inflation valve 17 may comprise corresponding parts of a quick-connect coupling. In other embodiments, the valves and hose may be connected by a screw fitting or threaded connection arrangement. In this way, the interconnecting hoses can allow for quick and convenient connection of inflatable devices.The connecting means may be arranged so that a connector (e.g., hose) has identical parts at opposite ends, allowing the connector to be used in any orientation. A hose may include a pressure relief valve (such as an in-line bleed valve) to prevent overinflation and damage to the fittings 20, 22, 24 being inflated. It should be noted that the camping assembly 10 of the present invention allows relatively short hoses to be used because the devices to be inflated need not be connected directly to a pump, and the donor valves 16 can be located for convenient access by a user. In some embodiments, a rigid adapter or connector may be used instead of a hose. In other embodiments, the donor valves 16 and inflation valves 17 may be directly (e.g., rigidly) connected together (e.g., without the use of a connecting hose). In this case, the donor valves 16 and inflation valves 17 may comprise corresponding parts of a quick-connect coupling or a screw fitting for connecting the valves 16 and 17 directly together. For example, the spigot 34 of each donor valve 16 may comprise part of a quick-connect coupling or a threaded portion for a screw connection. With these arrangements, the connections between the donor and inflation valves 16 and 17 can be made quickly and conveniently. With these direct (or "valve-to-valve") connections, an accessory 20, 22, or 24 can be connected to the awning 18 (or primary inflatable camping structure 12) without the need for a hose. In this way, fewer and / or smaller parts may be required.Also, with a direct connection, an inflation valve 17 can be rigidly connected to a donor valve 16 so that the inflation valve 17 can be supported by the donor valve 16. In some embodiments, the donor valves 16 may be arranged to open only when a connector (such as an inflation valve 17 or hose) is attached to them. In this way, an undesirable loss of air from the canopy 18 can be avoided. The donor valves 16 may comprise one-way valves so that air can only flow through a donor valve 16 in one direction, away from a respective inflatable device to which the donor valve 16 is mounted. In use, tent 12 is inflated using a pump or compressor (not shown in Figure 1), which may be integral with tent 12. Once inflated, tent 12 provides a reservoir of pressurized air. To inflate awning 18 (main camping structure), the interconnecting valve 28 of awning 18 is connected to the interconnecting valve 29 of tent 12 (primary camping structure). As shown in Figure 1, interconnecting valve 28 is connected to interconnecting valve 29 using hose 74. Alternatively, interconnecting valve 29 could be connected directly (but preferably with an adapter) to interconnecting valve 28 to provide a direct and rigid connection so that awning 18 is at least partially supported by tent 12 and interconnecting valve 29.Once tent 12 and awning 18 are connected, the interconnecting valve 29 can be opened to allow pressurized air to flow from the inflatable elements of tent 14 into the inflatable elements of awning 26 to inflate awning 18. Awning 18 is passively inflated as pressurized air in the elements of tent 14 flows into the inflatable elements 26 of awning 18. The airflow rate to awning 18 can be adjusted using the control nut 36, as described above. Alternatively, the flow rate can simply be switched on or off without an adjustable flow rate. With these arrangements, awning 18 does not need to be inflated at the same time as tent 12. The uninflated awning 18 can be connected to tent 12 at a later time and then inflated. In this way, a separate pump is not required to inflate the awning 18. It should be noted that at least the initial stages of inflating the awning 18 can be achieved significantly faster than using a pump (e.g., a hand pump, or electric pump), since the inflatable elements of the tent 14 retain a relatively large volume of air under pressure and the flow rate to the awning 18 is not limited by a pump's flow rate. It should also be noted that depending on the relative volumes of the inflatable elements of tent 14 and the inflatable elements 26 of awning 18, awning 18 can be partially or completely inflated by air stored in the inflatable elements 14 of tent 12. Where awning 18 (or another secondary inflatable structure) is not completely inflated by air stored in the elements of tent 14, the air source (e.g., integrated pump) which inflates tent 12 can be used for the remainder of the inflation, pumping air into tent 12, which then flows into awning 18 via the interconnecting valve 29. In some embodiments, tent 12 can be automatically reinflated if the pressure in the inflatable elements of the tent falls below a threshold pressure. In some embodiments, the inflatable elements 14 of tent 12 may have a degree of elasticity, such that a volume of air can be released from the tent structure 12 without a significant loss of pressure and / or structural integrity of tent 12. In this way, tent 12 provides an air reservoir, which may have a degree of redundancy, in that not all the air volume stored by tent 12 may be required to maintain the tent structure 12. Similarly, the inflatable elements 26 of awning 18 may have some elasticity, such that the amount of air required to support the awning structure 18 is not the maximum amount of air that the inflatable awning 18 can hold. The arrangement described above means that a separate pump for inflating awning 18 is not required.Once the Awning 18 is inflated, the Awning 18 provides an air reservoir from which one or more of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 can be inflated. For example, the volume or capacity of the various components can be as follows: The primary inflatable camping structure, which may include a tent, may be in the region of 374 liters, the awning (main camping structure) can be in the region of 356 liters, the inflatable camping accessory, which may comprise a sun canopy (150 liters) or a gazebo (150 liters) or a windbreak (64 liters), or may comprise a significantly smaller accessory (e.g., a mattress or ball). It should be noted that the limit on the amount of air that can be donated will be determined by the volume of the camping assembly, which can therefore be defined by the combined volume / capacity of the primary inflatable camping structure and awning (main camping structure). The combination provides increased capacity compared to a single inflatable structure. Additionally, for relatively large inflatable camping accessories, the camping assembly acts as an air reservoir in the initial stages, but additional air from the pump may be required for larger items, such as an additional awning. In preferred embodiments, the total air volume remains the same, as no extra air is introduced into the system during the inflation of the inflatable camping accessory.Specifically, a pump is not required (or used) to introduce extra air into the system, as the air is transferred from the inflatable camping structure to the inflatable camping accessory. As mentioned, this system allows the inflatable camping accessory to be inflated quickly and easily without any external power, while maintaining the structural integrity of the inflatable camping structure. An inflation valve 17 of an inflatable camping accessory 20, 22, 24 can be connected to the donor valve 16 of the awning 18, or to a donor valve 16 of the tent 12. The inflation valves 17 of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 are connectable to the donor valves 16 in the same way as the interconnecting valves 28 of the awning 18, as described above. Conveniently, inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 can be inflated by connecting them to the awning 18, meaning they do not need to be inflated too close to the tent 12, which could be inconvenient. As shown in Figure 1, an extension hose 76 is provided, which can be connected to the donor valve 16, to make it easier to inflate larger or less maneuverable inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24. The inflation valves 17 described herein may be similar to the donor valves 16, and each inflation valve may have a connector (e.g., quick-connect coupling or screw connector) arranged to connect to a corresponding connector on a donor valve 16. The inflation valves 17 may be substantially identical to the donor valves 16. In some embodiments, universal connectors (such as hoses or rigid couplings) may be configured to connect to any donor valve and / or inflation valve in the system. In this way, a user can select any connector and connect it in any orientation to a donor valve and an inflation valve without the inconvenience of having to ensure compatibility and / or correct connector orientation.The donor valve may be structurally the same as the inflation valve, and in these embodiments, both valves may be able to function as each other depending on whether they are being used to donate air or receive air. The arrangements described above can eliminate the need for separate hand pumps or air compressors and allow a user to inflate products by relying on already inflated products as an air supply. Alternatively, a user can perform initial inflation stages of an accessory as described above, and then complete the inflation using a pump or other air source. This approach can significantly increase inflation speed, as the initial inflation stage can be carried out quickly using air from the awning. Where the camping assembly includes a pump with its own power source, it allows one or more devices to be inflated using a single air source in remote or off-grid locations, without the need for an additional pump or connection to another power source.
Claims
1. A camping assembly (10) comprising an inflatable camping structure (18) and an inflatable camping accessory (20), the inflatable camping structure (18) comprising a network of inflatable air poles (26), the inflatable camping structure (18) comprising a donor valve (16) on an air pole (26) for releasing air from the inflatable camping structure (18); wherein the donor valve (16) is configured to be connected to an inflation valve (17) of the inflatable camping accessory (20) for the purpose of inflating the inflatable camping accessory (20) with air from the inflatable camping structure (18), and characterized in that: the inflatable camping structure (18) is in an inflated configuration and the inflatable camping accessory (20, 22, 24) is in a deflated configuration,and the inflation of the inflatable camping accessory (20) is achieved exclusively with air contained within the inflatable camping structure (18) without introducing any additional air into the inflatable camping structure (18).
2. A camping assembly (10) according to Claim 1, wherein the inflatable camping structure (18) provides an air reservoir with which the inflatable camping accessory (20) is inflated exclusively.
3. A camping assembly (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein: in a first configuration, the inflatable camping structure (18) is in an inflated configuration and the inflatable camping accessory (20) is in a deflated configuration, and in a second configuration,The inflatable camping structure (18) is in an inflated configuration, and the inflatable camping accessory (20) is in an inflated configuration, and the inflation of the inflatable camping accessory (20) is achieved exclusively with air contained within the inflatable camping structure (18), without introducing any additional air into the inflatable camping structure (18).
4. A camping assembly (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the donor valve (16) comprises a one-way valve.
5. A camping assembly (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the donor valve (16) comprises a pressure relief valve.
6. A camping assembly (10) according to Claim 5,wherein the pressure relief valve is arranged to maintain a minimum pressure within the inflatable camping structure (18).
7. A camping assembly (10) according to Claim 6 wherein, above the minimum pressure, the pressure relief valve allows air to be transferred from the inflatable camping structure (18) to the inflatable camping accessory (20).
8. A camping assembly (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the camping assembly (10) comprises a main camping structure (18) and a primary camping structure (12), wherein the main camping structure (18) is releasably attachable to the primary camping structure (12) and the main camping structure (18) comprises an awning and the primary camping structure (12) comprises a caravan, a tent, and a trailer tent.
9. A camping assembly (10) according to Claim 8,wherein the primary camping structure (12) comprises a primary inflatable camping structure comprising a first interconnecting valve (29) and the awning comprises a second interconnecting valve (28) to define an airway between the primary inflatable camping structure (12) and the awning, and one of the primary inflatable camping structure (12) and the awning is arranged to inflate the other of the primary inflatable camping structure (12) and the awning.
10. A camping assembly (10) according to Claim 9, wherein the first and second interconnecting valves (28, 29) form an airway with a control member (36) located therein, and wherein the control member (36) is movable between an open position and a closed position to selectively permit or prevent airflow between the primary camping structure (12) and the awning.and the control member (36) is manually movable between the open and closed positions.
11. A camping assembly (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the inflatable camping accessory (20, 22, 24) comprises one of a gazebo, windbreak, auxiliary tent, inflatable splash pool, awning, inflatable ball, inflatable mattress, and / or inflatable seat.
12. A camping assembly (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the camping assembly (10) comprises a pressurized air source configured to inflate the primary camping structure and wherein the pressurized air source comprises a pump.
13. A camping assembly (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein an inflatable volume of the inflatable camping accessory (20, 22,24) is less than 25% of an inflatable volume of the inflatable camping structure (18).
14. A method for inflating an inflatable camping accessory (20, 22, 24) with air from a camping assembly (10), the camping assembly (10) comprising an inflatable camping structure (18), wherein the inflatable camping structure (18) comprises: a network of inflatable air poles (26), a donor valve (16) on an air pole (26) for releasing air from the inflatable camping structure (18); and wherein the donor valve (16) is configured to be connected to an inflation valve (17) of an inflatable camping accessory (20, 22, 24) for the purpose of inflating the inflatable camping accessory (20, 22, 24) with air from the inflatable camping structure (18); understanding the method: connecting an inflation valve (17) of the inflatable camping accessory (20, 22,24) to the donor valve (16) of the camping assembly (10); and releasing air from the camping assembly (10), characterized in that: the inflatable camping structure (18) is in an inflated configuration and the inflatable camping accessory (20, 22, 24) is in a deflated configuration, and the method comprises inflating the inflatable camping accessory (20, 22, 24) exclusively with air contained within the inflatable camping structure (18) without introducing any additional air into the inflatable camping structure (18).
15. A method according to Claim 14, wherein the camping assembly (10) comprises: a primary inflatable camping structure (12) comprising a primary donor valve (29) configured to release air from the primary inflatable camping structure (12); a main inflatable camping structure (18) comprising an inflation valve (28) for inflating the main inflatable camping structure (18),wherein the inflation valve (28) is configured to be connected to the primary donor valve (29) in order to inflate the main inflatable camping structure (18) with air from the primary inflatable camping structure (12), and wherein the camping assembly (10) comprises a secondary donor valve (16) for releasing air from the camping assembly (10), and the method comprises connecting the inflation valve (17) of the inflatable camping accessory (20, 22, 24) to the secondary donor valve (16) of the camping assembly (10); and releasing air from the camping assembly (10).