Auxiliary Utility apparatus for temporary accommodation structures

Abstract

Apparatus has framework with two tiers 220, 240, one tier 240 movable with respect to the other tier 220 between a retracted and an extended state, the tiers able to be movable mounted to an accommoda

Description

Touring holidays using a motorhome, campervans, caravans or other recreational utility vehicles are becoming increasingly popular because they provide the ability to travel large distances with home comforts and without the need to rent property or sleep under canvas. Such transportable accommodation is becoming more and more sophisticated and comfortable, with most being provided with an indoor kitchen area, toilet, shower, as well as permanent sleeping and dining areas with plenty of storage throughout the vehicle. However, the kitchen areas tend to be very' small and allow for only basic functionality, quite often comprising a 2-ring hob with a small preparation area that would accommodate a small plate or a couple of cups. Most users like to keep their interior clear of cooking odours and steam. A big part of owning a motorhome, campervan or the like is the opportunity to live the outdoor life with indoor sleeping and habitation comforts. Outdoor cooking forms an important part of this lifestyle and many owners have portable tables, used for placing barbecue units and camping cookers on. These tables vary in design size and have to be assembled / disassembled each time they are used and placed on stable level ground. Generally each owner will have a second table used for dining and socialising. Many motorhomes and other vans are provided with a rear storage compartment in the vehicle which may be accessed from one or both sides of the vehicle. The storage compartment tends to be ample in size so that the user may store larger items in this area, such as outdoor equipment including portable tables, barbeque units, outdoor play equipment, water sports equipment or any other type of luggage or equipment that does not fit elsewhere within the vehicle. These storage compartments are extremely useful, particularly when the vehicle is fully occupied. However, frequently occupants may not require this capacity of storage or do not maximise use of this space properly. Often users re-use equipment that has been purchased previously for other types of outdoor living, such as camping and caravanning and simply load it into the compartment ad-hoc, resulting in the rear storage compartment being very wasteful of space. Thus, while these storage areas are very? useful, the design does not maxiraise their potential for use, nor does it allow for neat and orderly storage. It is an object of the present invention to provide an auxiliary multi-purpose utility apparatus for temporary accommodation structures, such as for a motorhome, caravan, campervan, RV or RUV that overcomes, or at least alleviates, the abovementioned problems. Summary of the Invention. According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided an auxiliary' utility apparatus for a storage compartment of an accommodation structure, the apparatus comprising a framework, the framework forming at least two tiers, each tier being configured to provide at least one of a storage and utility function, wherein at least one tier of the framework is configured to be movably engageable with a part of the storage compartment and wherein at least one tier is movably connected to another tier to allow movement of the tier towards or away from the other tier between a retracted and an extended state. In the context of this disclosure, an accommodation structure may encompass any type of structure that is conventionally used for temporary, and often, transportable accommodation. This may include camping pods, touring and static caravans, camper vans and motorhomes However, the structure is preferably a touring vehicle, such as motorhome, campervan. or touring caravan. The apparatus according to the invention enables the tiers to be placed in a compact state, preferably wherein the at least two tiers occupy the same footprint, and be moved into and out of the storage compartment. Once outside the compartment, at least one of the tiers may be moved with respect to the other into an extended state thereby enabling full access and use of the storage and / or utility function provided in each tier. Thus, the invention provides an extendable utility apparatus for a storage compartment that may be stored in a compact state within the accommodation structure storage compartment and moved to an extended state outside of the structure for use. Many variations of the apparatus may be provided depending upon the proposed storage required and / or utility of the apparatus. For example, one tier may provide a platform to provide a flat, level utility work surface. The same or another tier may provide a storage unit, including extendable storage trays, baskets and / or container. Customisable tiered slide out shelving may be provided to allow easy access to a myriad of equipment that is generally piled into the storage compartment of the structure. Thus, the present invention may provide a built in, outdoor utility with optional entertainment apparatus with combined storage. It is to be appreciated that any type of mechanism may be provided to allow the apparatus to be moveably engageable with the storage compartment of the accommodation structure to enable movement into and out of the storage compartment, including but not limited to the apparatus and storage compartments being provided with complimentary components of a sliding mechanism, a rack and pinion, a slider crank mechanism, linear motion bearing and telescopic sliders. Said movement may be via a manually operated or automatic mechanism. Suitable locking means may be provided to secure the apparatus in different positions and states. In one embodiment, at least one tier or framework of the tier is provided with a slider or guide rail configured to be received within a channel or track provided on a wall of the storage compartment, to enable the framework to be moved in and out of the structure. However, in a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, the framework of the apparatus includes a cradle or housing for receiving the retracted tiers, preferably wherein the cradle is mountable within the storage compartment. Preferably, the cradle comprises a rigid, hollow structure that is securable within the storage compartment, the interior of the cradle being movably engageable with the framework. For example, the cradle may be fixable to anchor points provided within an interior of the storage compartment of the accommodation structure and the framework of the apparatus engages with members provided on the inside of the cradle to enable the framework and tiers to be moved into and out of the cradle provided within the storage compartment. For example, the inner side w7alls of the cradle may be provided with longitudinal linear tracks to engage longitudinal rails provided on a framework of at least one of the tiers. More preferably, at least four sides of the cradle are solid. In this manner, the cradle acts as support and protection for the framework and tiers both when the apparatus is installed within the storage compartment of the accommodation structure and prior to its installation. Preferably, the tiers of the apparatus are connected for movement in at least one different direction to the movement between the apparatus and the storage compartment. The at least one tier may be slidably connected to at least one other tier. Alternatively or additionally, at least one tier may be rotatably mounted with respect to the other tier, i.e., allowing one tier to flip or fold outwardly from the other tier or tiers. At least one tier may be provided with an actuator to impart movement between the tiers. A manual or automatic actuator may be provided to impart said motion between the tiers. The framework may be formed by separate or integral members forming the desired overall shape of each tier. The framework for each tier may be connectable in a manner to allow movement of said tiers, for example via a slider, guide rail system or the like. It is to be appreciated that the apparatus of the present invention may include any number of tiers. The overal l framework of the apparatus may be of substantially similar dimensions to the storage compartment of the vehicle. Alternatively, the overall dimensions of the apparatus of the invention may be less than the storage compartment to retain some storage functionality within the compartment of the structure, for example for other outdoor and / or sporting equipment. Preferably, each framework of a tier forms a cuboid, preferably wherein the framework of each tier is of a substantially equal size, thereby providing a cuboid apparatus in the compact state that is receivable within the storage compartment. If a cradle is included in the apparatus, the dimensions of the cradle may be dictated by the size of the framework and tiers to be received within the cradle. As mentioned above, each tier of the framework of the apparatus provides a storage and / or utility function. For example, in one embodiment at least one tier may be provided with at least one storage drawer. Another tier may provide a utility function, for example having a panel to provide a work surface or table, or housing a stove or other utility. Preferably, the apparatus may be provided with additional support and / or levelling members, particularly for supporting and / or levelling the tiers in the extended state. For example, support legs may be provided. These may be foldable or detachable support legs to support at least one of the tiers in its extended state. More preferably, the legs are foldable against, a part of a tier of the apparatus. Preferably, the length of the legs is adjustable, either manually or automatically, to provide levelling of the tiers. Ideally, each support leg is independently adjustable. Optionally, a spirit level may be provided within at least one tier. A spirit level may be provided for one or each tier to aid both levelling the tier in the extended state and to aid levelling of the apparatus within the optional cradle. In embodiments, at least one tier may be provided with an extension member, the extension member being retractable within or against at least one of the tiers and extendable therefrom. Preferably, at least one leg is provided to support the extension member in its extended state. In one embodiment, the extension member may be a substantially U-shaped member which is slidable within the framework of one of the tiers. Alternatively, the U-shaped member may be foldable against the framework of one of the tiers. A detachable panel may be provided for receipt on the U-shaped member thereby forming a work surface. Alternatively, the extension member may be in the form of a planar solid surface that is slidable within the framework of at least one tier, or pivotal or foldable with respect to one of the tiers. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises an upper cuboid tier and a lower cuboid tier, the lower tier having a longitudinal guide rail along opposing sides for receipt within a corresponding channel provided on walls of a cradle or the storage compartment itself. A further sliding guide rail is preferably provided transversely between the two tiers to enable the upper tier to be slid outwardly from the lower tier into the extended state. It is to be appreciated that although a rail guide system has been discussed other types of sliding mechanisms may be employed, such as telescopic sliders as are known in the art. It is to be appreciated that a wide range of other components may be included as part of the apparatus as desired. These may be reversibly attachable to part of the framework, such as cup holders (not shown) or a hoop for receiving a rubbish bag or may be permanently attached to part of the apparatus, for example a magnetic strip for holding knives (this may form part of the framework itself). The components can all be quickly and easily folded up and slid back into the storage compartment of the accommodation structure, such as a motorhome, after use to enable it to move to another location. The guide rail or sliding systems may be provided on the framework of the apparatus and different types of storage and utility solutions may be configured to be receivable within the framework forming the tiers. In this manner a modular apparatus may be provided wherein a framework (with optional cradle) is purchased and secured within a storage compartment and the consumer choses the particular storage and / or utility solution to be contained within the framework. The apparatus according to the present invention is particularly suitable for providing a kitchen and / or food preparation and eating / dining area. The upper tier may be adapted to receive a camping stove or other cooking implements while the lower tier seives as the food preparation area. The extension members may then be used for food prepping or eating, as desired. However, it. is to be appreciated that, the apparatus is not limited to this single application. Different configurations of the apparatus may be provided to suit the size of storage compartment available and demands of the end user. The apparatus may be provided with optional aesthetic and functional features to enhance its appeal to the user and to provide a multi-functional work / storage area. For example, the apparatus may further comprise at least one of a built-in lighting system, an integrated music bluetooth speaker system, built-in power connectors (240 VAC, 12VDC, 5VDC) and / or USB ports to charge mobile devices and. built-in cooking systems such as induction, halogen, gas or portable cooking systems, gas stoves or barbeques. Optionally, the apparatus may include an integral or detachable bin liner holder, paper towel dispenser, magnetic utensil holder and so on. A monitor or screen may be integrated into an upper tier, that may serve as entertainment for the user and / or control any automated elements of the apparatus via a touch-sensitive screen. One of the tiers may optionally provide a bar with optics. Also a deployable, optionally motorised, sun shade may be connectable to the apparatus. It is clear that any number of different configurations of the storage and / or utility apparatus of the invention may be provided, with basic cheaper versions and more expensive versions geared to a particular type of end user. The apparatus may be further adapted to assist in its quick and easy deployment, for example having automated components to enable automatic setting up and putting away of at least parts of the apparatus, for example by employment of linear actuator motors and electronic lifters. An automatic levelling system may be provided for the component parts, for example an automated ball joint / gimbal mechanism may be provided in relation to adjustment of the legs to provide a level working surface and / or a motorised self-levelling button activated auto level work area and home (safe travel) feature and / or an accelerometer or gyroscope may be provided to automate the levelling of the utility platform, for example when cooking. A second aspect of the present invention provides an auxiliary utility apparatus for a storage compartment of an accommodation structure, the apparatus comprising a cradle configured to be secured to the storage component, and a framework, the framework forming at least two tiers, each tier being configured to provide at least one of a storage or utility function, wherein at least one tier of the framework is configured to be movably engageable with a part of the cradle and wherein at least one tier is movably connected to another tier to allow movement of the tier towards or away from the other tier between a retracted and an extended state. A third aspect of the present invention provides an accommodation structure, preferably a temporary or transportable accommodation structure such as a motorhome, comprising an internal storage compartment fitted with an apparatus according to the first or second aspect of the present invention. Preferably, the apparatus according to the first or second aspect is provided in a rear storage compartment, more preferably having side access with a lockable door. Brief Description of the Drawings For a better understanding of the present invention and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made by way of example only to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1A is a perspective side view of a conventional motorhome according to the prior art; Figure IB is a view of an open standard rear storage compartment of a motorhome according to the prior art; Figure 2A a schematic perspective view of an auxiliary' utility apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention, shown in its compact state; Figure 2B is a schematic perspective view of the auxiliary utility apparatus shown in Figure 2A, shown partially extended; Figure 3 A is a schematic diagram of a framework for an auxiliary utility apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3B is a concept model of an auxiliary’ utility apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4A. is an illustration of an auxiliary utility apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention installed in a rear storage compartment of a motorhome, shown partially extended outwardly from the rear storage compartment; Figure 4B illustrates the apparatus of Figure 4B, shown fully extended; Figure 5A is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of an auxiliary utility apparatus of the invention, installed in a rear storage compartment of a motorhome, shown partially extended outwardly from the rear storage compartment; Figure 5B illustrates the apparatus of Figure 5 A, shown with stabilising legs extended, Figure 5C illustra tes the apparatus of Figure 5 A, shown with upper storage tier extended; Figure 5D illustrates the apparatus of Figure 5 A, shown with additional surfaces extended; Figure 6 illustrates an auxiliary utility apparatus according to yet another embodiment of the present invention, shown removed from the storage compartment of a vehicle; Figures 7A and 7B are respectively a side view and perspecti ve view of auxiliary utility apparatus according to a further embodiment of the present invention, shown with a two-tiered framework within a cradle; Figure 7C is a perspective view of the cradle of Figures 7 A and 7B without the tiered framework; F igure 7D is a perspective view' of the apparatus of Figures 7A and 7B, with the framework removed from the cradle and tiers in the extended state, Figure 7E is a side view of Figure 7D; Figure 7F is a perspective view of the apparatus of Figures 7A and 7B, with one additional working area extending from the tiers in the extended state; Figure 7G is a perspective view of the apparatus of Figures 7 A and 7B, shown with two additional working areas extending from the tiers in the extended state; Figure 7H is a side view of Figure 7G; Figure 71 is an end view of Figure 7G, taken from the end furthest from the cradle; and Figure 8 illustrates an example of an actuator for levelling of a tier of an apparatus according to the present invention. Detailed Description The present invention provides an apparatus for a storage compartment of a temporary or transportable accommodation structure, particularly but not exclusively a motorhome, camper van, caravan or similar. The apparatus is moveable into and out of the compartment and is then extendable to a larger footprint once outside the vehicle. For example, the apparatus may be installed on guide rails within a storage compartment of the vehicle (often found at the rear of the vehicle) and have at least two tiers wherein the apparatus may slide longitudinally along the rails to outside of the compartment and then one tier is movable transversely with respect to the other. Figures 1A and IB of the accompanying drawings illustrate one example of a conventional rear storage compartment 10 for a motorhome I. It is to be appreciated that the storage compartment may be located in another type of accommodation structure, such as a caravan, but is particularly suitable for a motorhome which are often provided with these types of storage compartment as standard. The compartment may be a different size, shape and position but is generally accessible by a door, most usually at the side of the vehicle. This compartment is normally used for storages of boxes, luggage, camping and / or sports equipment as desired by the end user. However, this can lead to the compartment being very disorganized and, furthermore, the space may often be underutilised, particularly in the upper portion of the compartment, or left empty due to the amount of storage found elsewhere in the vehicle. This is clearly wasteful. The present invention provides an extendable utility apparatus for a storage compartment that may be stored in a compact state within the compartment and moved to an extended state outside of the compartment for use. Many variations of the apparatus may be provided depending upon the proposed utility of the apparatus and thus the embodiments disclosed herein are not limiting of the invention. Figures 2A to 2B are schematic diagrams illustrating one embodiment of an apparatus 20 according to the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, the apparatus comprises two storage tiers 22, 24 forming upper and lower levels of the apparatus. In the compact state, as shown in Figure 2A, the tiers lie directly over one another within the same footprint which enables them to fit within the storage compartment of the vehicle or other structure (not shown for the sake of simplicity). The two storage tiers may form drawers for housing cooking utensils or other items, such as clothing. Alternatively, one tier may form one or more drawers and the other tier may be provided for another purpose, such as to form a stable platform, for example to provide a table, a cooking preparation area and / or a stove. In the illustrated embodiment, opposing sides of the bottom tier 22 are provided with a longitudinal guide rail 30 for receipt within a corresponding channel (not shown) of a rail guide system provided on the inner walls of the storage compartment. A further sliding guide rail 32 is provided transversely between the two tiers 22, 24. This enables the apparatus 20 to be slid out of the storage compartment (see arrow a in Fig. 2B) and then the top tier may be slid outwardly in the direction of arrow b. The apparatus may include further components, such as a foldable surface area 40 for example to form a table structure. In this manner, the surface area. 40 can be packed flat against the apparatus and then folded out for use, as illustrated by arrow c in Figure 2B. Foldable support legs 42 may also be provided for supporting the lower tier 22. It may be preferable to provide legs that are adjustable to take account of uneven ground. Ideally, each support leg is independently adjustable. Thus, the apparatus 20 may be provided in a compact state for receipt within the storage compartment but then extended outwardly from the compartment, both longitudinally and transversely to provide a work / storage platform area beside the vehicle. Once no longer required, the parts can be folded back on one other, slid together and then pushed back into storage compartment of the vehicle using the guide rail system of the apparatus and storage compartment. It is to be appreciated that although a rail guide system has been discussed other types of sliding mechanisms may be employed, such as telescopic sliders, slider crank mechanism, linear motion bearing and drawer slides as are known in the art. Figure 3A is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a framework 50 for providing an auxiliary' utility apparatus of the invention. The framework comprises a series of interconnected straight members that form two rectangular frames, one on top of the other, for forming the two tiers 22, 24 of the apparatus. The guide rail systems may be provided on the framework and different types of storage and utility-solutions may be configured to be receivable within the framework. In this manner a modular apparatus may be provided wherein a framework is purchased and secured within the vehicle storage compartment and the consumer choses the particular storage solution to be contained within the framework. For example, as shown in Figure 3B a system of drawers 36 and lighting 38 may be provided, on one or both tiers. Figures 4A to 4B illustrate another embodiment of an auxiliary utility apparatus 200 according to the present invention. In Figure 4A, the apparatus is shown slid out from the storage compartment 10 of the vehicle 1. The apparatus has two tiers 220, 240, the low'er tier 220 having telescopic sliders 300 that are mounted on rails (not shown) attached to the sides of the storage compartment 10. The tiers comprise a framework 500 for receiving different types of storage or utility components. In this embodiment, each tier comprises a cuboid having two upper and two lower longitudinal parallel members, two upper and two lower transverse parallel members and four vertices. The framework members are of a length, width and depth suitable to fit within the storage compartment of the vehicle. The framework of the upper tier 240 is provided with a storage drawer and the intended front panel or face of the upper tier is provided with lighting 244 along the edges of the panel. The lower tier 220 is comprised of the rectangular framework with the upper members receiving a panel 222a to form a table or food preparation surface. Preferably, these surfaces are food safe, for example comprising stainless steel .Additionally, the upper longitudinal members of the framework of the lower tier 220 form a channel for slidably receiving an extension member 224, This member can also be extended from within the framework of the lower tier and receive a panel (not shown) to provide a further table or preparation surface. Foldable and / or extendable legs 250 are provided to support all parts of the framework, as necessary'. These legs may be permanently attached to the apparatus or detachable therefrom, and are preferably adjustable. The lower transverse members of the upper tier and the upper transverse members of the lower tier are connected by a sliding mechanism to enable the upper tier to move outwardly, parallel with the side of the vehicle, to expose the preparation surface 222a of the lower tier. However, it is to be appreciated that an alternative type of mechanism could be used to move the two tiers from a compact to an extended position, for example, the upper and lower tiers may be connected by a foldable bracket which enables the upper tier to rotate outwardly from the lower tier. In this manner, the two tiers may be slid over each other to be stored within the storage compartment of the vehicle. In use, the two tiers are pulled out of the compartment and the upper tier is slid away from the lower tier, exposing the top of the lower tier. If required, the extension member may be pulled out from within the framework of the lower tier and a panel inserted. The legs 250 are folded out or attached to parts of the framework of the upper and lower tiers and adjusted accordingly to stabilize the apparatus for use. It is to be appreciated that a wide range of other components may be included with the apparatus as desired. These may be reversibly attachable to part of the framework, such as cup holders (not shown), kitchen roll holders (not shown) or a hoop 260 for receiving a rubbish bag or may be permanently attached to part of the apparatus, for example a magnetic strip 320 for holding knives (this may form part of the framework itself). The components can all be quickly and easily folded up and slid back into the storage compartment after use to enable movement to another location. Figures 5A to 5D illustrate yet another configuration for an auxiliary utility apparatus according to the present invention. Identical features already discussed in relation to the embodiment of Figures 4A and 4B are given the same reference numerals and only the differences will be discussed in detail. Again the apparatus 200 has two tiers 220, 240 which may be slid apart, but it is to be appreciated that more tiers may be included, subject to the total height being receivable within the storage compartment 10 of the vehicle or other accommodation structure. The lower tier is again slidably-mounted with respect to the inner walls of the storage compartment but embodiments may have the top tier slidably mounted with respect to the compartment. The two tiers are also slidably attached to each other so that the tiers can be placed in an extended state during use. In this embodiment, the top tier has multiple drawers 246 (one shown open in Figure 5C) and foldable, preferably adjustable, legs 250 extend from the framework of the lower tier. As shown in Figure 5D multiple extension members 224a, 224b are provided for providing a greater food preparation and eating surface area. It is clear that the extendable utility apparatus according to the present invention is particularly suitable for providing a kitchen and / or food preparation and eating area. This is a clear benefit provided by the invention because it is often desirable to cook and dine outdoors. This also provides additional room and retains cooking smells outside of the structure, such as a motorhome. The upper tier may be adapted to receive a camping stove or other cooking implements while the lower tier serves as the food preparation area. The extension members may then be used for food prepping or eating, as desired. However, it is to be appreciated that the apparatus is not limited to this single application. Figure 6 of the accompanying drawings demonstrates a further embodiment of the invention illustrating how the apparatus 600 may be sold as stand-alone item for installing within a storage compartment of a vehicle, such as a motorhome. All component parts of the apparatus slide over, pivot within or fold over the tiers 620, 640 of the apparatus to lie within the boundary (footprint) of the edges of the tiers, thereby providing a compact unit that can be engaged via runners / sliders with guide rails or similar provided on the side walls of the storage compartment of the vehicle, such as a motorhome. In the illustrated embodiment, extension members 630a, 630b for forming a worktop area are provided that slide out of the lower tier and pivot outwardly from the surface of the lower tier. These parts are respectively slid back in and pivoted over the surface of the lower tier (as indicated by arrows y and z in Figure 6) prior to moving the upper tier back in line with the lower tier for storage purposes. Figures 7A to 71 of the accompanying drawings illustrate yet a further embodiment of an extendable utility apparatus 800 according to the present invention. In this embodiment, the framework 850 for the t\vo tiers 820, 840 is slidably engaged with a cradle or housing 880 (Figure 7C) via telescopic sliders 890 mounted to the inner walls of the cradle. The cradle 880 may also be in the form of a framework (as shown in the Figures) but, more preferably, is in the form of a solid box-like structure that can surround the framework 850 and tiers 820, 840 when in their retracted state. The cradle is open at least at one end or may be open at both ends. The cradle is fixable within the storage compartment, for example by means of anchor points (storage compartment not shown in figures for sake of simplicity). The tiered framework 820, 840, 850 is thus movable from within the cradle 880 (see Figures 7A and 7B) fixed within the storage compartment to outside the cradle and compartment. Once moved beyond the boundary of the cradle, the upper tier 840 may be slid outwardly from the lower tier 820 to form the extended storage and / or utility areas (see Figures 7D and 7E) as hereinbefore described. Again foldable legs 842 may be extended to support the lower tier. In the illustrated embodiment further food preparation, dining or other usable surface areas 866, 868 may be provided (see Figures 7F to 71), being extendable from the tier 820, 840, for example by sliding and / or pivot mechanisms, and supported and levelled by adjustable legs 842. The embodiment of the apparatus that includes cradle 880 provides protection to the framework and contents of the tiers when the apparatus is in its retracted state, both prior to installation within a storage compartment and after installation. It can also assist in protecting the interior of the compartment from damage due to repeated use of the apparatus. It is to be appreciated that the cradle, framework and tiers may be provided in a series of standard sizes to suit their end application with a variety of optional accessories for receipt within or attachment to the tiers and / or framework. Different configurations of the apparatus may be provided to suit the size of rear storage compartment available. Additionally, the apparatus may be provided with optional aesthetic and functional features to enhance its appeal to the user and to provide a multi-functional work / storage area for cooking, storage, entertaining, sitting and dining. For example, a built in lighting system, built-in power connectors (240VAC, 12VDC, 5VDC), USB ports and a built-in spirit level may be provided to assist in levelling of the surfaces on uneven ground. The component parts may be provided in materials and colours to suit the purchaser, for example having a custom colour option on fascia panels and a choice of worktop materials. Built in cooking systems could be provided in one or multiple tiers of the apparatus, such as induction, halogen, gas or portable cooking systems, gas stoves or barbeques. The apparatus may also be provided with a built in or add on utility system, bin liner holder, paper towel dispenser, magnetic utensil holder and so on. The apparatus may be further adapted to assist in its quick and easy deployment, for example having linear actuator motors and electronic lifters. Figure 8 of the accompanying drawings illustrates an actuator 900 for self-levelling of the tiers 820, 840. An automatic levelling system for the component parts, for example an automated ball joint / gimbal mechanism may be provided in relation to adjustment of the legs to provide a level working surface. A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) may be provided to fully automate the apparatus, enabling vertical control of the worktop platform (which may comprise the top surface of a tier or an extendable member) and deployment of the legs in an extended or retracted state. The PLC may become the hub for all inputs and outputs (I / O) for the overall storage compartment. IO feeds from an accelerometer or gyroscope help the PLC to first determine the initial angle of the X and Y axis, from here the PLC will control the linear actuators to bring both axis’s to 0 degree from the touch or a single button whether this is physical or logical (touchscreen). A second button will return the worktop platform or retract the legs to a known home mode or position, feedback linear actuators will help enable to the PLC to determine the correct adjustments needed. It is to be appreciated that the apparatus is preferably provided with locking members, either manual or automatic, to secure the component parts in their fully extended and / or retracted state. A touchscreen and / or monitor will provide visual confirmation and allow for execution of commands and automated tasks. The apparatus according to the present invention provides a minimum two-tier system that is multi-functional and movable between a compact, stored state wdiere is may be slid and retained within the storage compartment of a structure such as a motorhome, and an extended, fully functional state wherein the apparatus is outside of the vehicle and the tiers of the apparatus are splayed apart to provide access to different parts of the apparatus, providing a much greater surface area. It is to be appreciated that some motorhomes and other vans have larger storage compartments and for these additional tiers may be provided in the apparatus. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus provides an enhanced outside cooking and dining area for the occupants of the vehicle, the apparatus being adjustable and self-levelling to aids its satisfactory use. Thus, the invention provides single multipurpose system that, incorporates a stable platform that will accommodate multiple cooking systems on one work area, such as cookers, barbecues, coffee machines or any combination. The dimensions of the invention generates a much larger useable food preparation and cooking area, than is available in the motorhome or other transportable structure. The design may include a slide out table that can be used for dining or socialising, and a storage area for food items and utensils, all of which are housed into one compact unit. The apparatus may also include a drinks optic capability, for example on the upper slide out tier, allowing the owners to enjoy the benefits of a Bar style social area if they choose too. The system is designed to be deployed in a fraction of the time (seconds) that it would take to extract and assemble tables, and is equally quick to pack away in the event of inclement weather. The design allows for bespoke sizing according to the customers’ requirements. The apparatus may also incorporate a shelved storage capacity that is customisable to the vehicle owners specification. This provides segregation of items in trays or boxes, in a neat and orderly manner. Customisable tiered slide out shelving can provide easy access to the myriad of equipment that is generally piled into the storage compartment. This will maximise the use of the upper portion of the compartment, which in most cases is completely underutilised. Further modifications to the apparatus may be made without, departing from the principles embodied in the examples described and illustrated herein.

Claims

1. An auxiliary utility apparatus for a storage compartment of an accommodation structure, the apparatus comprising a framework, the framework forming at least two tiers, each tier being configured to provide at least one of a storage and utility function, wherein at least a part of the framework is configured to be movably engageable with a part of the storage compartment and wherein at least one tier is movably connected to another tier to allow movement of the tier towards or away from the other tier between a retracted and an extended state.

2. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein in the retracted state the at least two tiers occupy the same footprint.

3. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the mechanism to allow the apparatus to be moveably engageable with the storage compartment of the accommodation is selected from the apparatus and storage compartments having complimentary components of a sliding mechanism, a rack and pinion, a slider crank mechanism, linear motion bearing and telescopic sliders.

4. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, claim 2 or claim 3, wherein said movement is via a manually operated or automatic mechanism.

5. The apparatus as claimed in claim 3 or claim 4 wherein the at least one tier or framework of the tier is provided with a slider or guide rail configured to be received within a channel or track provided on a wall of the storage compartment, to enable the framework to be moved in and out of the structure.

6. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the apparatus further comprises a cradle or housing for receiving the retracted tiers, wherein the cradle is mountable within the storage compartment.

7. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein the cradle comprises a rigid, hollow structure that is securable within the storage compartment, the framework being movably engageable with the interior of the cradle.

8. The apparatus as claimed in claim 7, wherein the cradle is fixable to anchor points provided within an interior of the storage compartment of the accommodation structure and the framework of the apparatus engages with members provided onan inside of the cradle to enable the framework and tiers to be moved into and out of the cradle provided within the storage compartment.

9. The apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the tiers of the apparatus are connected for movement in at least one direction that is different to the direction of movement between the apparatus and the storage compartment.

10. The apparatus as claimed in claim 9 wherein the at least one tier is slidably connected or rotatably mounted with respect to the at least one other tier.

11. The apparatus as claimed in claim 10, wherein the at least one tier is provided with an actuator to impart movement between the tiers.

12. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein a manual or automatic actuator is provided to impart said motion between the tiers.

13. The apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one of an additional support and a levelling member.

14. The apparatus as claimed in claim 13, wherein the at least one of an additional support and a levelling member supports and / or levels the tiers in the extended state.

15. The apparatus as claimed in claim 13 or claim 14, wherein at least one foldable or detachable support leg is provided, preferably wherein the legs are foldable against a part of a tier of the apparatus.

16. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the length of the least one of an additional support and a levelling member is manually or automatically adj ustable.

17. The apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one tier is provided with a spirit level to aid at least one of levelling the tier in the extended state and to aid level l ing of the apparatus within an optional cradle.

18. The apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one tier is provided with at least one extension member, the extension member being retractable within or against at least one of the tiers and extendable therefrom, optionally wherein at least one leg is provided to support the extension member in its extended state.

19. The apparatus as claimed in claim 18, wherein the extension member forms a working platform.

20. The apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein at least one of the tiers includes at least one of a storage drawer, tray or basket.

21. The apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein modular storage or utility accessories are provided for receipt in within the at least one first and second tier.

22. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises an upper cuboid tier and a lower cuboid tier, the lower tier having a longitudinal guide rail along opposing sides for receipt within a corresponding channel provided on walls of a cradle or the storage compartment and a further sliding guide rail is provided transversely between the two tiers to enable the upper tier to be slid outwardly from the lower tier into the extended state.

23. An auxiliary' utility apparatus for a storage compartment of an accommodation structure, the apparatus comprising a cradle configured to be secured to the storage component, and a framework, the framework forming at least two tiers, each tier being configured to provide at least one of a storage or utility function, wherein at least part of the framework is configured to be movably engageable with a part of the cradle and wherein at least one tier is movably connected to another tier to allow movement of the tier towards or away from the other tier between a retracted and an extended state.

24. An accommodation structure, preferably a temporary or transportable accommodation structure, comprising an internal storage compartment fitted with an apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims.

25. The accommodation structure as claimed in claim 21, wherein the apparatus is provided in a rear storage compartment, more preferably having side access with a lockable door.

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