Tent comprising a frame and an inflatable frame

Abstract

Tent comprising a frame and an inflatable frame Tent (10) comprising a frame (20) comprising a central plate (22), a first side plate (24) and a second side plate (26), said first and second side plates being able to be placed in an unfolded position and in a folded position, the tent comprising an inflatable frame (40) extending in a longitudinal direction (Y) and comprising at least a first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion (42) forming a first longitudinal inflatable arch (44) and a second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion (46) forming a second longitudinal inflatable arch (48); the tent further comprising a tent canvas (12) cooperating with said inflatable frame. Figure for abstract: Fig. 1.

Description

Title of the invention: Tent comprising a frame and an inflatable frame Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of deployable tents for camping, provided with an inflatable frame with which a tent canvas cooperates. Such tents are said to be deployable because they can take a deployed position allowing their use and a folded position in which they can be stored.

[0002] The present invention relates more specifically to tents configured to rest on the ground or to be placed on the roof of a vehicle and whose frame is mounted on a foldable chassis. Prior art

[0003] Tents such as that described in document US 9,567,767 B2 are known, configured to be placed on the roof of a vehicle. This tent comprises a so-called "wallet" frame, comprising a first tray and a second tray pivotally mounted relative to the first tray. In the folded position, the two trays rest on top of each other, while they extend side by side when unfolded. The tent further comprises a rigid frame mounted on the frame and capable of being deployed like a fan when the second tray is pivoted relative to the first tray.

[0004] A disadvantage of this tent is that in the folded position, it has a large footprint, corresponding to the dimensions of the first tray. This tent, once folded, is not very compact and particularly bulky. In particular, when mounted on the roof of a vehicle, this tent in the folded position covers substantially the entire surface area of the roof, leaving no possibility of installing other luggage on said roof, such as bags or bicycles. Another disadvantage is that, given its large transverse dimensions, this tent has a high wind resistance when mounted on the roof of a vehicle. This increases the fuel consumption of the vehicle transporting the tent and can disrupt driving.

[0005] This tent according to the prior art is also difficult to handle, particularly when it has to be installed, moved or stored by the user alone. Presentation of the invention

[0006] An aim of the present invention is to propose a tent which overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0007] To do this, the invention relates to a tent comprising: a frame comprising a central tray, a first side tray pivotally mounted relative to the central tray about a first pivot axis, and a second side tray pivotally mounted relative to the central tray about a second pivot axis parallel to the first pivot axis, said first and second side trays being able to be placed in an unfolded position in which they extend on either side of the central tray in a base plane passing through the central tray, so as to form, with the central tray, a base for the tent, the first and second side trays being able to be further placed in a folded position in which they extend one on top of the other above the central tray; an inflatable frame mounted on the chassis and extending in a longitudinal direction which is transverse to said first pivot axis of the first side plate, said inflatable frame comprising at least a first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion forming a first longitudinal inflatable arch and a second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion forming a second longitudinal inflatable arch; and a tent canvas cooperating with said inflatable frame.

[0008] Preferably, the tent according to the present invention is a roof tent, particularly suitable for resting on the roof of a vehicle, such as a car or a van, without damaging it. The tent can also be placed on ground, for example outdoors, and in particular on uneven ground.

[0009] The tent can take at least one folded position in which the first and second side plates are in the folded position and in which the inflatable frame is not inflated. The tent can further take at least one deployed position in which the first and second side plates are in the unfolded position and the inflatable frame is inflated. The tent can advantageously take an intermediate position in which the first and second side plates are unfolded and the inflatable frame is not inflated.

[0010] The tent advantageously extends along said longitudinal direction of the inflatable frame.

[0011] Preferably, but not limited to, the first and second side plates and the central plate are rectangular in shape. They could also be square in shape. The first and second side plates are advantageously identical.

[0012] The central plate and the first and second lateral plates advantageously have a width considered transversely to the first pivot axis. Preferably, the width of the first and second lateral plates is equal to the width of the central plate. More preferably, the first and second lateral plates are identical to the central plate. The central plate and the first and second side plates advantageously have a length considered parallel to the first and second pivot axes.

[0013] Without departing from the scope of the invention, the first and second side plates may have a width less than the width of the central plate.

[0014] Preferably, the central plate has a first connecting edge and a second connecting edge opposite the first connecting edge, the first lateral plate being pivotally mounted relative to the first connecting edge of the central plate while the second lateral plate is pivotally mounted relative to the second connecting edge of the central plate. The first connecting edge advantageously extends parallel to the first pivot axis.

[0015] The first side plate is preferably pivotally mounted relative to the central plate by means of a hinge, more preferably by means of two hinges.

[0016] Said frame advantageously extends in said longitudinal direction. The first and second pivot axes advantageously extend orthogonally to said longitudinal direction.

[0017] The first pivot axis is advantageously parallel to the second pivot axis. The distance between the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis is preferably substantially equal to, or slightly greater than, the width of said central plate.

[0018] When the first and second side plates are in the folded position, the first side plate advantageously extends above the second side plate. Alternatively, and without departing from the scope of the invention, the second side plate could extend above the first side plate.

[0019] Thanks to the invention, when the first and second side plates are in the folded position, the frame is particularly compact. The tent then has a footprint corresponding to the dimensions of the central plate. The tent according to the invention therefore has a reduced footprint compared to portfolio-type tents according to the prior art in which the footprint corresponds to the dimensions of one of the two plates constituting the frame. Indeed, the width of the central plate of the frame of the tent according to the invention is less than the width of the plates of these portfolio tents according to the prior art. The width of the central plate of the frame of the tent according to the invention is approximately equal to two-thirds of the width of the plates of these portfolio tents according to the prior art.For example, considering that the side plates of the tent according to the invention are substantially identical to the central plate, placing these side plates in the folded position makes it possible to divide the footprint of the tent by three. In comparison, folding the frame of a portfolio tent according to the prior art only makes it possible to divide . by two the footprint of the tent. The width of the frame of the tent according to the invention when the first and second side plates are in the folded position is less than the width of the frame in the folded position of the tents according to the prior art.

[0020] The tent according to the invention is therefore particularly compact and space-saving in the folded position without reducing the dimensions of the base when the side plates are unfolded. In particular, when placed in the folded position on the roof of a vehicle, the tent according to the invention only occupies a reduced portion of the surface area of this roof, thus leaving the possibility of installing other luggage there, next to the tent, for example bags or even bicycles. The tent according to the invention, installed on the roof of a vehicle in the folded position, also has low wind resistance, reducing fuel consumption during the journey and not disrupting driving.

[0021] The width of the central plate of the frame of the tent according to the invention is advantageously between 60 centimeters and 100 centimeters, more preferably approximately equal to 80 centimeters.

[0022] The tent according to the invention in the folded position is also easily handled and transported.

[0023] Preferably, when the first and second side plates are in the folded position, the inflatable frame and / or the tent canvas extends between the second side plate and the central plate, as well as between the first side plate and the second side plate.

[0024] To deploy the tent, the user successively pivots the first and second side plates relative to the central plate so as to bring them into the unfolded position in which they extend in said base plane. Said base plane advantageously extends horizontally, parallel to the surface on which the tent rests.

[0025] The base, formed by the first and second side plates in the unfolded position and by the central plate, advantageously has a rectangular shape. It constitutes a floor for the tent.

[0026] When the tent is mounted on the roof of a vehicle and the side trays are in the unfolded position, the central tray advantageously rests on said roof, while the first and second side trays extend cantilevered from said roof. One of the two side trays advantageously rests partly on said roof.

[0027] As long as it is not inflated, the inflatable frame rests on the frame with the tent canvas. The size of said inflatable frame, when deflated, is greatly reduced, in particular compared to a rigid frame.

[0028] The user then inflates the inflatable frame until the tent is in the deployed position. Inflating the inflatable frame shapes the latter and allows in particular to form said longitudinal inflatable arches.

[0029] The inflatable frame advantageously comprises at least one inflation valve configured to cooperate with an inflation device, for example a pump. Preferably, the inflatable frame comprises a single inflation valve.

[0030] The inflatable frame is preferably attached to the chassis. Preferably, the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion is attached to at least one of the first and second side plates, more preferably to both side plates.

[0031] The inflatable frame is preferably removably attached to the chassis.

[0032] The first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions extend in said longitudinal direction. They advantageously extend transversely to the first pivot axis. Said first and second longitudinal inflatable arches extend in said longitudinal direction.

[0033] Said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions are advantageously curved, the curvature being directed upwards. Said longitudinal inflatable arches advantageously have the shape of a vault or even substantially the shape of an inverted “U”. Said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions advantageously comprise a central portion extending above the end portions of said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions.

[0034] The longitudinal inflatable arches formed by the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions of the inflatable frame of the tent according to the invention give the frame better resilience to deformations, particularly considered along said longitudinal direction. The balance and stability of the inflatable frame are improved. The resistance of the frame to external forces, particularly to gusts of wind, is also improved. Furthermore, taking into account these longitudinal inflatable arches, the conformation of the longitudinal inflatable tubular portions in the form of a single inflatable tubular element is facilitated.

[0035] Preferably, the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion extends between the first side plate and the second side plate. Similarly, the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion preferably extends between the first side plate and the second side plate.

[0036] The first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion advantageously has a first end portion mounted, preferably fixed, to the first side plate and a second end portion, opposite the first end portion and mounted, preferably fixed, to the second side plate. Said first and second end portions are advantageously fixed to said first and second side plates respectively in a removable manner.

[0037] Preferably, said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions- tudinales do not cooperate with the central plateau.

[0038] The first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion and the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion are advantageously identical.

[0039] The first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion advantageously extends along a first longitudinal edge of the chassis, while the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion advantageously extends along a second longitudinal edge of the chassis. The first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions advantageously extend on either side of the chassis.

[0040] Preferably, the distance between the first end portion and the second end portion of the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion is substantially equal to the length of the chassis considered along said longitudinal direction, when the first and second side plates are in the unfolded position.

[0041] When the inflatable frame is inflated, it allows the tent canvas to be kept at a distance from the frame in order to delimit an interior volume of the tent in which the user can move. In a non-limiting manner, the tent canvas may rest on said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions of the inflatable frame. Alternatively, the tent canvas may be connected or fixed to said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions.

[0042] The first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions are advantageously in fluid communication, so that a single inflation valve allows them to be inflated simultaneously.

[0043] The tent canvas is advantageously attached to the frame, preferably removably. The tent canvas is advantageously attached to at least one of the first and second side plates, preferably removably.

[0044] The tent canvas advantageously defines a first side wall formed between the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion and the frame and a second side wall formed between the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion and the frame. Said first side wall advantageously extends substantially perpendicular to the base plane.

[0045] The tent canvas preferably defines a roof portion formed between said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions.

[0046] Preferably, said first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion extends in a first plane which is transverse to the first pivot axis of the first side plate and said second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion extends in a second plane which is transverse to said first pivot axis.

[0047] It is understood that the inflation of the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion allows it to be brought automatically into said first plane and that the inflation of the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion allows it to be brought automatically in said second plan.

[0048] Said first and second planes extend parallel to said longitudinal direction. Said first and second planes are transverse to the base plane.

[0049] Said first and second planes are advantageously vertical.

[0050] Preferably, said first plane is perpendicular to the first pivot axis. Preferably, said second plane is perpendicular to the first pivot axis.

[0051] The first and second planes are preferably perpendicular to the base plane and the main chassis.

[0052] The first side wall formed by the tent canvas advantageously extends in said first plane while the second side wall formed by the tent canvas advantageously extends in said second plane. Said side walls preferably extend transversely to the base plane, more preferably perpendicularly to the base plane.

[0053] Advantageously, said first and second planes are substantially parallel to each other. Also, said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions advantageously extend parallel to each other. Another advantage is to improve the stability of the inflatable frame by preventing said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions from being inclined towards each other, thus reducing the risk of them collapsing towards each other. Another advantage is to maintain the first and second side walls of the tent, formed by the tent canvas respectively between the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions and the frame, parallel to each other. As a result, the interior space of the tent is also increased, thus improving the comfort of the user.

[0054] Preferably, said inflatable frame further comprises at least one inflatable junction portion transversely connecting said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions.

[0055] Said inflatable junction portion is advantageously in fluid communication with said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions. The inflatable junction portion advantageously makes it possible to place said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions in communication, so that a single inflatable valve can be used to simultaneously inflate said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions and said inflatable junction portion.

[0056] The inflatable joining portion is advantageously tubular. The inflatable joining portion is advantageously formed from the same material as the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions.

[0057] The inflatable joining portion also makes it possible to reinforce the frame by helping to maintain a constant gap between the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions.

[0058] Advantageously, said inflatable junction portion extends substantially parallel to the first pivot axis of the first side plate.

[0059] The inflatable junction portion advantageously has a length substantially equal to the width of the central plate considered transversely to said longitudinal direction.

[0060] In a non-limiting manner, the inflatable joining portion may rest on one of the first and second plates or extend at a distance from the base plane.

[0061] Preferably, said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions each have a first end portion, said inflatable joining portion connecting the first end portion of the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion to the first end portion of the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion. The inflatable joining portion makes it possible to maintain a substantially constant gap between said first end portions of the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions. The inflatable frame then forms a continuous elongate element.

[0062] According to a particularly advantageous aspect, said first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion has a second end part, opposite the first end part and forming a free end for said inflatable frame.

[0063] Advantageously, said second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion also has a second end portion, opposite the first end portion and forming another free end for said inflatable frame. The second end portions of the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions being free, it is understood that the inflatable frame is devoid of a portion, inflatable or not, attached or not, connecting the second end portions of the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions.

[0064] Advantageously, when the first side plate is in the unfolded position, said inflatable joining portion rests on said first side plate. This inflatable joining portion then forms an additional support for the inflatable frame on said chassis, further improving the stability of said inflatable frame.

[0065] Preferably, said inflatable joining portion extends along an end edge of the first tray, forming an end border for the chassis.

[0066] Preferably, said first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion, said second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion and said inflatable joining portion are formed from a single inflatable tubular element, whereby the manufacturing of the tent is simplified. In addition, said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions and said inflatable junction portion are thus placed in fluid communication. A single inflation valve then allows these different portions to be inflated simultaneously. This configuration also facilitates the repair of the inflatable frame and reduces the risk of air leakage at the junction between the longitudinal inflatable tubular portions and the inflatable junction portion.

[0067] Another advantage is to avoid the connection, for example by sewing, of several inflatable tubular elements between them, the junction between such inflatable tubular elements being able to prove particularly fragile. In addition, the overall sealing of the assembly formed by the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions and the inflatable junction portion is improved.

[0068] Preferably, said inflatable tubular element comprises an inflatable tube made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). In addition, it advantageously comprises a preformed textile sleeve in which said inflatable tube is arranged, in order to constrain the latter to give it the chosen shape when it is inflated.

[0069] Preferably, the inflatable frame comprises a single inflatable tubular element. One advantage is to facilitate the deployment of the tent by reducing the number of elements to be inflated. The weight and size of the inflatable frame are also reduced.

[0070] Advantageously, the inflatable frame comprises at least one added stiffening element transversely connecting said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions. One advantage is to maintain a substantially constant spacing between the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions, in order to prevent them from collapsing towards each other or from moving away from each other. Said stiffening element may comprise a rigid rod extending between said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions. Said stiffening element may be flexible. Said stiffening element is preferably rigid. The stiffening element is preferably not inflatable. The stiffening element is distinct from the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions.Said stiffening element is advantageously connected to the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions in a removable manner.

[0071] Preferably, said stiffening element has a constant length. Alternatively, and without departing from the scope of the invention, the stiffening element may have an adjustable length.

[0072] The inflatable frame advantageously comprises a plurality of stiffening elements connecting the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions.

[0073] The stiffening element advantageously extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the inflatable frame and parallel to the first and second pivot axes.

[0074] The stiffening element is advantageously removably connected to the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions.

[0075] Preferably, the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion has at least one first bent part, and the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion has at least one first bent part.

[0076] These bent portions make it possible to impose an angle between two parts of the corresponding longitudinal inflatable tubular portion that it connects together. The bent portions make it possible in particular to adjust the curvature of the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions in order to give the tent a chosen shape. In particular, these bent portions make it possible to give the roof portion of the tent canvas a chosen inclination and shape, following the curvature of the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions. The tent canvas advantageously has an edge formed between the first bent portion of the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion and the first bent portion of the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion.

[0077] Preferably, the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion and the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion comprise a plurality of bent portions. Preferably, each of the bent portions extends at a height difference.

[0078] Preferably, the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion comprises at least three bent parts, more preferably at least four bent parts.

[0079] Preferably, the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion is not symmetrical considered with respect to a median plane transverse to the longitudinal direction of the frame.

[0080] Advantageously, said added stiffening element extends between the first bent part of the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion and the first bent part of the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion. One advantage is to reduce the risk of the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions moving apart or closer to each other at these bent parts, further improving the stability of the inflatable frame. This also makes it possible to keep the tent canvas taut between the longitudinal inflatable tubular portions and thus prevent the formation of pockets of water on the tent canvas.

[0081] Advantageously, the chassis comprises at least a first hinge for mounting the first side plate pivotally relative to the central plate around the first pivot axis, and the chassis comprises at least a second hinge for mounting the second side plate pivotally relative to the central plate around the second pivot axis, said first and second hinges being configured such that the height of the first pivot axis relative to the central plate is greater than the height of the second pivot axis relative to the central plate.

[0082] One advantage is to be able to easily fold the first side plate over the second side plate. One advantage is also to provide a larger space between the central plate and the first side plate, as well as between the first side plate and the second side plate when said side plates are in the folded position, to receive said tent canvas and / or said inflatable frame in the deflated position.

[0083] This configuration advantageously makes it possible to keep said first and second side plates substantially parallel to the main plate.

[0084] Said heights are considered transversely to the base plane.

[0085] Preferably, said first hinge comprises a first part of first hinge secured to the central plate and a second part of first hinge secured to the first lateral plate, the second part of first hinge being pivotally mounted relative to the first part of first hinge about the first pivot axis, said second hinge comprises a first part of second hinge secured to the central plate and a second part of second hinge secured to the second lateral plate, the second part of second hinge being pivotally mounted relative to the first part of second hinge about the second pivot axis, said first and second parts of first hinge having a height greater than the height of the first and second parts of second hinge.

[0086] Preferably, said tent canvas and / or said inflatable frame is fixed to said frame. An advantage is to keep said tent canvas and / or said inflatable frame fixed to the frame when folding and storing the tent. The size of the tent in the folded position is therefore reduced. The risk of losing or damaging said tent canvas and / or said inflatable frame is further reduced. More preferably, said tent canvas and / or said inflatable frame is fixed to said frame in a removable manner. Preferably, said tent canvas and / or said inflatable frame is fixed to said first side plate and to said second side plate.

[0087] Preferably, said tent canvas and / or said inflatable frame comprises at least one fixing piece and at least one groove is provided in said frame, said groove being configured to receive said fixing piece, so as to fix the tent canvas and / or said inflatable frame to said frame.

[0088] Advantageously, the tent further comprises a telescopic ladder pivotally mounted relative to one of the first and second side plates. Said ladder advantageously rests on the ground and supports the first or second side plate. when said tray is unfolded. Preferably, said ladder serves as a lever to unfold the side tray to which it is pivotally mounted. Brief description of the drawings

[0089] The invention will be better understood on reading the following description of an embodiment of the invention given by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

[0090] [Fig.l] [Fig.l] is a perspective view of a tent according to the invention mounted on the roof of a vehicle;

[0091] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a perspective view of the tent of [Fig.l], the tent canvas having been removed;

[0092] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] illustrates the frame of the tent of [Fig.l];

[0093] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] shows the frame of the tent of [Fig.l] mounted on the roof of the vehicle, the first and second side trays being folded;

[0094] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] shows the tent frame of [Fig.l] mounted on the roof of the vehicle with the first side tray unfolded;

[0095] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] shows the tent frame of [Fig.l] mounted on the roof of the vehicle with the first and second side trays unfolded; and

[0096] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a perspective view of the tent of [Fig.l] in the deployed position. Description of the embodiments

[0097] The invention relates to a tent comprising a frame and an inflatable frame mounted on the frame.

[0098] [Fig.l] is a perspective view of a tent 10 according to the invention mounted on the roof T of a vehicle V. In this [Fig.l], the tent 10 is shown in the deployed position. The tent 10 comprises a frame 20, an inflatable frame 40, visible in [Fig.2], and a tent canvas 12 cooperating with said inflatable frame. The tent further comprises a telescopic ladder E cooperating with the frame 20.

[0099] [Fig.2] illustrates the tent of [Fig.l] in which the tent fabric 12 has been removed to facilitate the description of the frame 20 and the inflatable frame 40.

[0100] As seen in [Fig.2], the chassis 20 comprises a central plate 22, a first lateral plate 24 and a second lateral plate 26. The first lateral plate 24 is pivotally mounted relative to the central plate 22 about a first pivot axis X1, between a folded position and an unfolded position. In this [Fig.2], the first lateral plate is in the unfolded position. The second lateral plate 26 is pivotally mounted relative to the central plate 22 about a second pivot axis X2, between a folded position and an unfolded position. In this [Fig.2], the second lateral plate is in the unfolded position.

[0101] The frame 20 will be described in detail with reference to [Fig. 3] in which neither the tent canvas 12 nor the inflatable frame 40 are shown. The central plate 22 has a first connecting edge 22a, a second connecting edge 22b, opposite the first connecting edge 22a, as well as a first lateral edge 22c and a second lateral edge 22d, opposite the first lateral edge 22c. The first lateral plate 24 has a first transverse edge 24a, a second transverse edge 24b, opposite the first transverse edge 24a, as well as a first lateral edge 24c and a second lateral edge 24d, opposite the first lateral edge 24c. The second side plate 26 has a first transverse edge 26a, a second transverse edge 26b, opposite the first transverse edge 26a, as well as a first lateral edge 26c and a second lateral edge 26d, opposite the first lateral edge 26c.

[0102] The first and second side plates 24, 26 and the central plate 22 are rectangular in shape. In this non-limiting example, they are substantially identical.

[0103] The first side plate 24 is pivotally mounted relative to the first connecting edge 22a of the central plate 22. The second side plate 26 is pivotally mounted relative to the second side edge 22b of the central plate 22.

[0104] In Figures 2 and 3, the first and second side plates 24, 26 are in the unfolded position. They extend in a base plane P passing through the central plate 22. This base plane P is parallel to the ground and therefore extends substantially horizontally. The assembly formed by the central plate 22 and the first and second side plates 24, 26 in the unfolded position forms a base 28 for the tent 10. This base 28 extends in the base plane P. The first and second side plates 24, 26 extend on either side of the central plate 22.

[0105] The chassis 20 has a first longitudinal edge 23 formed by the first lateral edges 22c, 24c, 26c of the first and second lateral plates 24, 26 and of the central plate 22. The chassis 20 has a second longitudinal edge 25 formed by the second lateral edges 22d, 24d, 26d of the first and second lateral plates 24, 26 and of the central plate 22.

[0106] The frame 20 comprises a first hinge 30 and a third hinge 34 pivotally connecting the first side plate 24 to the central plate 22. The frame 20 further comprises a second hinge 32 and a fourth hinge 36 pivotally connecting the second side plate 26 to the central plate 22.

[0107] The first and second hinges 30, 32 are arranged near the first longitudinal edge 23 of the chassis 20 while the third and fourth hinges 34, 36 are arranged near the second longitudinal edge 25 of the chassis.

[0108] The first and third hinges 30, 34 are identical so that only the first hinge 30 will be described in detail. Said first hinge 30 comprises a first part of first hinge 30a which is integral with the central plate 22 and a second part of first hinge 30b which is integral with the first lateral plate 24. The second part of first hinge 30b is pivotally mounted relative to the first part of first hinge 30a around the first pivot axis XI.

[0109] The second and fourth hinges 32, 36 are identical so that only the second hinge 32 will be described in detail. Said second hinge 32 comprises a first second hinge part 32a which is integral with the central plate 22 and a second second hinge part 32b integral with the second lateral plate 26. The second second hinge part 32b is pivotally mounted relative to the first second hinge part 32a around the second pivot axis X2.

[0110] Said first and second parts of first hinge 30a, 30b have a height hl greater than the height h2 of the first and second parts of second hinge 32a, 32b. Also, considered with respect to the base plane P, or with respect to the central plate 22, the height hl of the first pivot axis XI is greater than the height h2 of the second pivot axis X2.

[0111] Referring again to [Fig.2], it can be seen that the inflatable frame 40 is mounted and fixed on the chassis 20. In this figure, said inflatable frame 40 is inflated. The inflatable frame 40 extends in a longitudinal direction Y.

[0112] The inflatable frame 40 comprises a first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 42 defining a first longitudinal inflatable arch 44. The first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 42, and therefore the first longitudinal inflatable arch 44, extend in said longitudinal direction Y and in a first plane PI. This first plane PI is transverse, and in this non-limiting example is perpendicular, to the first pivot axis XI and to the second pivot axis X2. This first plane PI is vertical. The first plane PI is perpendicular to the base plane P. It is also parallel to the longitudinal direction Y.

[0113] The first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 42 has a first end portion 42a and a second end portion 42b opposite the first end portion. The first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 42 further comprises a plurality of bent portions 42c formed between said first and second end portions 42a, 42b. The second end portion 42b of the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 42 forms a free end for the first longitudinal inflatable arch 44 and for the inflatable frame 40.

[0114] The first end part 42a of the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion is fixed to the chassis 20, and more precisely to the first lateral plate 24 at the level of the corner formed at the intersection between the first lateral edge 24c and the second transverse edge 24b of said first lateral plate 24. The second end part 42b of the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion is fixed to the chassis 20, and more precisely to the second lateral plate 26 at the corner formed at the intersection between the first lateral edge 26c and the second transverse edge 26b of said second lateral plate 26.

[0115] The inflatable frame 40 further comprises a second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 46 defining a second longitudinal inflatable arch 48. The second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 46, and therefore the second longitudinal inflatable arch 48, extend in said longitudinal direction Y and in a second plane P2. This second plane P2 is transverse, and in this non-limiting example is perpendicular, to the first pivot axis XI and to the second pivot axis X2. This second plane P2 is here vertical. The second plane P2 is perpendicular to the base plane P. It is also parallel to the longitudinal direction Y. In a non-limiting manner, the second plane P2 is parallel to the first plane PI.

[0116] When the tent 10 is installed on the ground or on the roof of a vehicle, said first and second planes P1, P2 extend substantially vertically.

[0117] The second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 46 has a first end portion 46a and a second end portion 46b opposite the first end portion. The second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 46 further comprises a plurality of bent portions 46c formed between said first and second end portions. The second end portion 46b of the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 46 forms a free end for the second longitudinal inflatable arch 48 and for the inflatable frame 40. The first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 42 is here identical to the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 46.

[0118] In this non-limiting example, each of the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions 42, 46 comprises four bent parts 42c, 46c located at different heights.

[0119] The first end portion 46a of the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion is fixed to the chassis 20, and more precisely to the first lateral plate 24 at the corner formed at the intersection between the second lateral edge 24d and the second transverse edge 24b of said first lateral plate 24. The second end portion 46b of the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion is fixed to the chassis 20, and more precisely to the second lateral plate at the corner formed at the intersection between the second lateral edge 26d and the second transverse edge 26b of said second lateral plate 26.

[0120] The inflatable frame 40 is devoid of a portion, inflatable or not, attached or not, connecting the second end parts 42b, 46b of the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions 42,46.

[0121] Each of the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions extends between the first side plate 24 and the second side plate 26.

[0122] The first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions 42, 46 have the shape of an arch, or even substantially the shape of an inverted “U”. They have an upwardly oriented curvature. Said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions 42, 46 do not cooperate with the central plate 22.

[0123] The inflatable frame 40 further comprises an inflatable joining portion 50. This inflatable joining portion is also tubular. It transversely connects said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions 42, 46. More specifically, said inflatable joining portion 50 extends between the first end portion 42a of the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 42 and the first end portion 46a of the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 46. The inflatable joining portion 50 extends parallel to the first and second pivot axes XI, X2. It further extends transversely relative to the longitudinal direction Y.

[0124] The inflatable joining portion 50 rests on the first side plate 24 when the latter is unfolded. The inflatable joining portion 50 extends along the second transverse edge 24b of the first side plate 24. The inflatable joining portion 50 is fixed to the first side plate.

[0125] The first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 42, the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 46 and the inflatable joining portion 50 form a single tubular element 52. In this non-limiting example, said inflatable tubular element 52 comprises an inflatable thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) tube arranged in a textile sleeve. The textile sleeve is preformed in order to constrain the inflatable tube to give it the chosen shape when it is inflated. In a non-limiting manner, the inflatable frame 40 comprises a single inflatable tubular element 50. The inflatable tubular element comprises an inflation valve 56 for inflating the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions 42, 46 as well as the inflatable joining portion 50.

[0126] In [Fig. 2], it can also be seen that the inflatable frame 40 comprises a plurality of added stiffening elements 54 transversely connecting said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions 42, 46. More precisely, the inflatable frame comprises four stiffening elements 54. Each of these stiffening elements 54 extends between a bent portion 42c of the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 42 and a bent portion 46c, located at the same height, of the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 46. In this example non-limiting, the stiffening elements 54 comprise a rod whose ends engage in sheaths arranged on the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions 42, 46. The stiffening elements 54 extend parallel to the first and second pivot axes XI, X2 and perpendicular to the first and second planes P1, P2. They make it possible to maintain a constant gap between the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions and to reinforce the inflatable frame 40.

[0127] The steps for unfolding the tent will now be described in connection with Figures 4 to 6.

[0128] In [Fig.4], the tent 10 is in the folded position and arranged on the roof T of the vehicle V. Again, in this [Fig.4] as well as in [Fig.5], the tent canvas 12 and the inflatable frame 40 are not illustrated for reasons of visibility. The tent canvas 12 and the inflatable frame can however be kept connected to the chassis 20 when it is brought into the folded position. The first and second side plates 24, 26 are in the folded position. In this folded position, the first and second side plates 24, 26 extend one over the other, above the central plate 22. Given the configuration of the hinges described previously, the first side plate 24 extends above the second side plate 26. In other words, when they are folded, the second side plate 26 extends between the central plate 22 and the first side plate 24.

[0129] The first side plate 24 in the folded position extends substantially parallel to the central plate 22. The second transverse edge 24b of the first side plate 24 rests on the first transverse edge 26a of the second side plate 26.

[0130] The telescopic ladder E has a first end El which is pivotally mounted on a lower surface 27 of the first side plate 24.

[0131] It can be seen in this [Fig.4] that the footprint of the tent 10 in the folded position, when the side plates 24, 26 are folded, corresponds to the surface area of the central plate 22. In particular, the frame 20 then extends over a width L corresponding to the width of the central plate. The footprint is therefore reduced compared to a portfolio-type tent according to the prior art in which the footprint corresponds to the surface area of one of the two plates. The tent according to the invention in the folded position extends over a width approximately equal to two-thirds of the width over which the tents according to the prior art extend in the folded position.

[0132] To deploy the tent 10, and as illustrated in [Fig.5], the user first unfolds the first side plate 24. To do this, he deploys the telescopic ladder E and uses this ladder E as a lever to tilt and pivot the first side plate 24 relative to the central plate 22, around the first pivot axis XI. The first and third hinges 30, 34 are configured to limit the pivoting of the first side plate 24, and interrupt its pivoting when the latter extends in the base plane P, in the extension of the central plate 22.

[0133] The chassis 20 is then placed in the intermediate position illustrated in [Fig.5] in which only the first side plate 24 is unfolded. The ladder E then rests on the ground and supports the first side plate 24 which is cantilevered relative to the roof T of the vehicle V. The first side plate, however, rests partly on said roof T.

[0134] The user can then climb onto the central plate 22 and onto the first plate 24, using the ladder E, in order to be able to access the second lateral plate 26. The user then manually pivots the second lateral plate relative to the central plate 22, around the second pivot axis X2. The second and fourth hinges 32, 36 are configured to limit the pivoting of the second lateral plate 26, and interrupt its pivoting when the latter extends in the base plane P, in the extension of the central plate 22.

[0135] The first and second side plates 24, 26 are then unfolded and extend in the base plane P, on either side of the central plate 22, as illustrated in [Fig.6]. The second side plate 26 is cantilevered relative to the roof T. The tent canvas 12 and the inflatable frame 40 in the deflated position then rest on the chassis 20.

[0136] The user then inflates the inflatable frame 40, for example by connecting an inflation device to the inflation valve 56. Inflation of the inflatable tubular element 52 makes it possible to shape the inflatable frame and in particular the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions 42, 46 and the inflatable junction portion 50. The first and second longitudinal inflatable arches 44, 48 are formed.

[0137] As illustrated in [Fig.7], the tent canvas 12, cooperating with said inflatable frame 40, is then tensioned by the inflatable frame and defines the walls of the tent 10. Without departing from the scope of the invention, the tent could comprise a double roof covering the tent canvas.

[0138] The tent canvas 12 is attached to the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions. The tent canvas 12 defines a first side wall 14 for the tent 10, formed between the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 42 and the first longitudinal edge 23 of the frame. The tent canvas 12 further defines a second side wall 16 for the tent, formed between the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion 46 and the second longitudinal edge 25 of the frame. Said first and second side walls 14, 16 extend substantially perpendicular to the first and second pivot axes. They extend vertically and are parallel to each other. The first and second side walls 14, 16 extend respectively in the first plane P1 and in the second plane P2.

[0139] The tent fabric 12 further defines an upper wall 18 for the tent, formed between the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions 42, 46. The shape of this upper wall follows the curvature of the first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions.

Claims

Claims

1. Tent (10) comprising: a frame (20) comprising a central plate (22), a first side plate (24) pivotally mounted relative to the central plate about a first pivot axis (X1), and a second side plate (26) pivotally mounted relative to the central plate about a second pivot axis (X2) parallel to the first pivot axis, said first and second side plates being able to be placed in an unfolded position in which they extend on either side of the central plate in a base plane (P) passing through the central plate, so as to form, with the central plate, a base (28) for the tent, the first and second side plates being able to be further placed in a folded position in which they extend one on top of the other above the central plate;an inflatable frame (40) mounted on the chassis and extending in a longitudinal direction (Y) which is transverse to said first pivot axis of the first side plate, said inflatable frame comprising at least a first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion (42) forming a first longitudinal inflatable arch (44) and a second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion (46) forming a second longitudinal inflatable arch (48) and at least one inflatable joining portion (50) transversely connecting said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions (42, 46), said first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion (42), said second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion (46) and said inflatable joining portion (50) being formed from a single inflatable tubular element (52); and a tent canvas (12) cooperating with said inflatable frame.;

2. A tent according to claim 1, wherein said first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion (42) extends in a first plane (PI) which is transverse to the first pivot axis (XI) of the first side plate (24) and wherein said second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion (46) extends in a second plane (P2) which is transverse to said first pivot axis.

3. Tent according to claim 2, wherein said first and second planes (P1,P2) are substantially parallel to each other.

4. A tent according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said inflatable junction portion (50) extends substantially parallel to the first pivot axis (XI) of the first side plate (24).

5. A tent according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions (42,46) each have a first end portion (42a,46a), said inflatable joining portion (50) connecting the first end portion of the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion to the first end portion of the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion.

6. Tent according to claim 5, wherein said first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion (42) has a second end portion (42b), opposite the first end portion (42a) and forming a free end for said inflatable frame (40).

7. A tent according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, when the first side plate (24) is in the unfolded position, said inflatable joining portion (50) rests on said first side plate.

8. A tent according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the inflatable frame (40) comprises a single inflatable tubular member (52).

9. Tent according to any one of claims 1 to 8, in which the inflatable frame (40) comprises at least one added stiffening element (54) transversely connecting said first and second longitudinal inflatable tubular portions (42, 46).

10. A tent according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion (42) has at least one first bent portion (42c), and wherein the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion (46) has at least one first bent portion (46c).

11. A tent according to claims 9 and 10, wherein said attached stiffening element (54) extends between the first bent portion (42c) of the first longitudinal inflatable tubular portion (42) and the first bent portion (46c) of the second longitudinal inflatable tubular portion (46).

12. A tent according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the frame (20) comprises at least one first hinge (30) for mounting the first side plate (24) pivotably by relative to the central plate (22) around the first pivot axis (X1), and wherein the frame comprises at least one second hinge (32) for mounting the second side plate (26) pivotably relative to the central plate around the second pivot axis (X2), said first and second hinges being configured so that the height of the first pivot axis relative to the central plate is greater than the height of the second pivot axis relative to the central plate.

13. A tent according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein said tent fabric (12) and / or said inflatable frame (40) is attached to said frame (20).

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