An extendable compartment for a camper van
The self-supporting extendable compartment for camper vans addresses space limitations by using a stabilizing plate and telescopic rails, offering increased interior space without ground support legs, ensuring stability and weatherproofing.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- GB · GB
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- ADVANCED KFS SPECIAL VEHICLES LTD
- Filing Date
- 2024-10-14
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-06
AI Technical Summary
Camper vans often lack sufficient interior space for extended stays, and existing extendable compartments require ground support legs for stability, which can be cumbersome and limit their usability.
An extendable compartment for camper vans that is self-supporting, using a stabilizing plate secured to the internal floor and telescopic rails to move between open and closed configurations, with a moveable cabin and locking mechanisms for stability and security.
Provides additional interior space without the need for ground support legs, enhancing usability and flexibility while maintaining structural integrity and weatherproofing.
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD Examples of the disclosure relate to an extendable compartment for a camper van. BACKGROUND Camper vans provide a convenient way of resting while travelling. Extendable compartments allow the interior of the camper van to be increased, for example when parked. BRIEF SUMMARY According to various, but not necessarily all, examples there is provided an extendable compartment for a camper van. The extendable compartment is configured to be positioned towards a rear of a camper van and configured to be moved between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The extendable compartment comprising: a moveable cabin; a stabilising plate configured to be secured to an internal floor of the camper van; and two telescopic rails each secured to the stabilising plate. Each telescopic rail is attached to a respective side of the moveable cabin, and the two telescopic rails are configured to enable the extendable compartment to move between the open configuration and the closed configuration. In some but not necessarily all examples, the stabilising plate may comprise: a base plate configured to be positioned parallel to the internal floor when the stabilising plate is secured to the internal floor of the camper van; and two side walls extending from the base plate. Each telescopic rail may be secured to an internal surface of a respective side wall of the stabilising plate. The moveable cabin may be configured to be positioned above the stabilising plate when the extendable compartment is in the closed configuration. The extendable compartment may comprise a plurality of fasteners configured to secure the stabilising plate to the internal floor of a camper van. Each fastener may be configured to extend through the floor of a camper van. The extendable compartment may comprise at least one securing plate configured to at least partially receive at least one of the plurality of fasteners. The at least one securing plate may be configured to be positioned underneath the floor of the camper van when the stabilising plate is secured to the camper van. The extendable compartment may comprise a respective securing plate for each of the plurality of fasteners. The extendable compartment may be configured to be manually moved between the open configuration and the closed configuration. The extendable compartment may comprise at least one locking mechanism configured to lock the extendable compartment in the open configuration. The locking mechanism may be positioned at least partially in the moveable cabin. The locking mechanism may be a latch configured to be received by a corresponding strike plate when the locking mechanism is engaged. The moveable cabin may comprise a sleeping portion and a storage portion. The sleeping portion may be positioned above the storage portion. The width of the sleeping portion may be greater than the width of the storage portion. The sleeping portion may comprise a bottom surface which is arranged to extend from both side faces of the storage portion. The bottom surface of the sleeping portion may be arranged to extend equally from both side faces of the storage portion. The bottom surface of the sleeping portion may be arranged to extend further from one side face of the storage portion than the other side face of the storage portion. The storage portion may comprise a rear door configured to be accessible from an exterior of a camper van. The rear door may be positioned in a rear face of the moveable cabin. The storage portion may comprise at least one side door configured to be accessible from an exterior of the camper van. The side door may be positioned in a side face of the moveable cabin. When the extendable compartment is positioned in a camper van, the side door may be accessible (e.g., only accessible) when the extendable compartment is in an open configuration. The moveable cabin may comprise at least one window positioned on a side face of the moveable cabin. The extendable compartment may comprise an upper sealing surface. The upper sealing surface may comprise a seal configured to form a weather-proof seal when the extendable compartment is positioned in a camper van and when the extendable compartment is in the open configuration. The seal of the upper sealing surface may be configured to abut against a seal positioned towards a rear of a camper van when the extendable compartment is positioned in a camper van and when the extendable compartment is in the open configuration. The upper sealing surface may extend across the top surface of the moveable cabin and at least partially along the side surfaces of the moveable cabin. The extendable compartment may comprise a rear panel affixed to the rear surface of the moveable cabin. The rear panel may be configured to form a rear face of a camper van. The rear panel may comprise a plurality of locking mechanisms configured to lock the extendable compartment in the closed configuration. The extendable compartment may comprise a handle positioned on a front face of the moveable cabin. The handle may be configured to face the interior of a camper van. The extendable compartment may be configured to move at least 1.5 metres from the open configuration to the closed configuration. According to various, but not necessarily all, examples there is provided a camper van comprising an extendable compartment. According to various, but not necessarily all, examples there is provided a camper van comprising an extendable compartment. The extendable compartment is configured to be positioned towards a rear of a camper van and configured to be moved between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The extendable compartment comprising: a moveable cabin; a stabilising plate configured to be secured to an internal floor of the camper van; and two telescopic rails each secured to the stabilising plate. Each telescopic rail is attached to a respective side of the moveable cabin, and the two telescopic rails are configured to enable the extendable compartment to move between the open configuration and the closed configuration. According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments there is provided examples as claimed in the appended claims. While the above examples of the disclosure and optional features are described separately, it is to be understood that their provision in all possible combinations and permutations is contained within the disclosure. It is to be understood that various examples of the disclosure can comprise any or all the features described in respect of other examples of the disclosure, and vice versa. Also, it is to be appreciated that any one or more or all the features, in any combination, may be implemented by / comprised in / performable by an apparatus, a method, and / or computer program instructions as desired, and as appropriate. The description of a function should additionally be considered to also disclose any means suitable for performing that function BRIEF DESCRIPTION Some examples will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: FIG. 1A shows a first example camper van with an extendable compartment in a closed configuration; FIG. 1B shows the first example camper van with the extendable compartment in an open configuration; FIG. 2A shows an example extendable compartment in a closed configuration; FIG. 2B shows the example extendable compartment in an open configuration; FIG. 3A shows an example stabilising plate and telescopic rails of the example extendable compartment in a closed configuration; FIG. 3B shows the example stabilising plate and telescopic rails of the example extendable compartment in an open configuration; FIG. 4A shows a rear portion of a second example camper van with an extendable compartment in a closed configuration; FIG. 4B shows the rear portion of the second example camper van with the extendable compartment in an open configuration; and FIG. 5 shows a front view of an example moveable cabin of the extendable compartment. The figures are not necessarily to scale. Certain features and views of the figures can be shown schematically or exaggerated in scale in the interest of clarity and conciseness. For example, the dimensions of some elements in the figures can be exaggerated relative to other elements to aid explication. Similar reference numerals are used in the figures to designate similar features. For clarity, all reference numerals are not necessarily displayed in all figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Examples of the invention relate to an extendable compartment to be positioned inside a camper van. The extendable compartment is configured to provide an increased interior space within the camper van. FIG. 1A shows a side view of an example camper van 100 in a closed configuration. The camper van 110 has a length (which is depicted along the x-axis of FIG. 1 A), a height (which is depicted along the y-axis of FIG. 1A), and a width (which is depicted along a z-axis which is perpendicular to the x-axis and y-axis). In FIG. 1A, an extendable compartment 110 of the camper van 100 positioned towards a rear of the camper van, is in the closed configuration. In particular, the extendable compartment 110, in the closed configuration, does not extend from the rear of the camper van 100. The majority of the extendable compartment 110 is therefore contained within an interior of the camper van 100 when in the closed configuration. In some examples, only a rear face of the extendable compartment 110 is not contained within the camper van 100. In contrast, FIG. 1B shows a side view of the example camper van 100 in an open configuration. As illustrated, at least a portion of the extendable compartment 110 extends from the rear of the camper van 100 when in the open configuration. Therefore, the interior space within the camper van 100 is greater when the extendable compartment 110 is in the open configuration than when in the closed configuration. In the illustrated example, the extendable compartment 110 is secured in the open configuration without the need for ground support legs (i.e., without legs positioned under the extendable compartment 110 to support the extendable compartment when in the open configuration). Instead, the extendable compartment is supported (e.g., self-supported) as described below. The extendable compartment 110 is configured to be moved between an open configuration and a closed configuration. This is discussed in further detail below. In the illustrated examples of FIGs. 1A and 1B, the rear face of the extendable compartment 110 is configured to form a rear face of the camper van 100. In particular, as illustrated the extendable compartment 110 comprises a rear panel 115. The rear panel 115 is affixed to a rear surface of the extendable compartment 110 and is configured to form the rear face of the camper van 100, e.g., when the extendable compartment 110 is in the closed configuration, as shown in FIG. 1A. This is advantageous as the extendable compartment 110 can transition from the closed configuration to the open configuration without first having to open or remove a rear face of the camper van 100. In some examples, the rear panel 115 may be a (e.g., original) rear door of the camper van, or formed therefrom. In some examples, the rear panel 115 may be a moulded rear panel of the rear door, such that the rear door is replaced by the moulded rear panel. The moulded rear panel may have the same or similar specifications (e.g., shape, dimensions) as the original rear door. In some examples, the rear panel 115 may be configured to provide a seal (e.g., a weather-proof seal) with the camper van 100 when in the closed configuration. The rear panel 115 (either as the rear door, formed therefrom, or as a moulded rear panel) is configured to cooperate with original seals of the camper van. In some examples, the rear face of the extendable compartment 110 may comprise at least one locking mechanism configured to lock the extendable compartment 110 in the closed configuration. In some examples, the rear panel 115 may comprise the at least one locking mechanism. The at least one locking mechanism is configured to restrict the extendable compartment 110 from moving from the closed configuration (i.e., to the open configuration). In particular, the at least one locking mechanism is configured to lock the rear panel 115 of the extendable compartment 110 to the (rear of the) camper van 100. In some examples, the rear face of the extendable compartment 110 may comprise two locking mechanisms, each configured to lock the extendable compartment 110 in the closed configuration. As illustrated, the extendable compartment 110 is configured to be moved (or be moveable) between the closed configuration and the open configuration along the 8 length-direction of the camper van 100 (i.e., lengthways, as depicted along the x-axis in FIGs. 1Aand 1B). In some examples, the extendable compartment may be configured to be moved at least 1.5 metres from the open configuration to the closed configuration, and from the closed configuration to the open configuration. In other words, when the extendable compartment transitions between the open configuration and the closed configuration, it may be configured to be moved at least 1.5 metres. In some examples, the extendable compartment may be configured to be moved between 1.5 metres and 1.8 metres. In some examples, the extendable compartment may be configured to be moved at least 1.6 metres, 1.7 metres or 1.8 metres. In some examples, the extendable compartment may be configured to be manually moved between the open configuration and the closed configuration. For example, the extendable compartment may be configured to transition from the open configuration to the closed configuration (or from the closed configuration to the open configuration) by a force exerted onto the extendable compartment from a user (e.g., a user pulling or pushing the extendable compartment). The extendable compartment may be lockable in the open configuration. The extendable compartment may be lockable in the closed configuration. FIGs. 2A and 2B show an example extendable compartment 200 for a camper van. The extendable compartment 200 of FIG. 2 may be the same extendable compartment 110 illustrated and discussed above in relation to FIGs. 1A and 1B. The illustrated extendable compartment 200 in FIG. 2A is in a closed configuration, whereas FIG. 2B illustrates the extendable compartment 200 in an open configuration. The extendable compartment configured to be internally positioned (i.e., internally positionable). In other words, the extendable compartment is configured to be positioned inside a camper van. The extendable compartment 200 of FIGs. 2A and 2B comprises a moveable cabin 300, a stabilising plate 400 and two telescopic rails 500. As discussed above, the extendable compartment 200 is configured to be secured towards a rear of a camper van. The stabilising plate 400 is configured to be secured to an internal floor of the camper van. The stabilising plate 400 is therefore configured to secure the extendable compartment 200 to the camper van. The moveable cabin 300 is secured to the stabilising plate 400 by the two telescopic rails 500. In particular, the two telescopic rails 500 are each secured to the stabilising plate 400. Each telescopic rail 500 is attached to a respective (external) side of the moveable cabin 300. In the illustrated example, the telescopic rails 500 are attached towards a bottom of the moveable cabin 300. This advantageously provides superior strength as the moveable cabin 300, stabilising plate 400, and telescopic rails 500 are connected in the same plane. The telescopic rails 500 are configured to enable the moveable cabin 300 to move in relation to the stabilising plate 400. In particular, the moveable cabin 300 can move as the telescopic rails 500 either extend or contract (i.e., in the positive or negative x-direction, respectively). When the telescopic rails 500 are (e.g., fully) contracted, the moveable cabin 300 is positioned above the stabilising plate 400 and the extendable compartment 200 is therefore in the closed configuration. As illustrated in FIG. 2B, the extendable compartment 200 can move to the open configuration when the telescopic rails 500 extend therefore moving the moveable cabin 300. In other words, the moveable cabin 300 moves in the positive x-direction as the extendable compartment 200 transitions from the closed configuration (as illustrated in FIG. 2A) to the open configuration (as illustrated in FIG. 2B). The two telescopic rails 500 are therefore configured to enable the extendable compartment 200 to move between the open configuration and the closed configuration. In some examples, the telescopic rails 500 may be configured to extend to a length of at least 3 metres, preferably at least 3.5 metres. The stabilising plate 400 of the extendable compartment 200 provides stability for the moveable cabin 300 when in the open configuration. In particular, the extendable compartment 200 can be secured in the open configuration without the need for ground support legs (i.e., legs under the extendable compartment 110 to support the 10 extendable compartment when in the open configuration). Therefore, the extendable compartment 200 is self-supporting. As the stabilising plate 400 is configured to be secured to the floor of the camper van, the weight distribution can be spread across the stabilising plate 400. In some examples, the stabilising plate 400 may have a length between 1.5 metres and 2 metres. In some examples, the stabilising plate 400 may have a length of at least 1.5 metres, preferable at least 1.7 metres, preferably at least 1.8 metres, and preferably at least 1.9 metres. The width of the stabilising plate 400 may be at least 1.3 metres, preferably at least 1.4 metres. The height of the stabilising plate 400 may be at least 0.15 metres. The height of the stabilising plate 400 may be less than 0.2 metres. In the illustrated example, the moveable cabin 300 has (substantially) the same length as the stabilising plate 400 (i.e., along the x-axis). In some examples, the extendable compartment 200 may comprise a rear panel (as discussed above), and the rear panel may be affixed to the rear surface of the moveable cabin 300. The moveable cabin 300 illustrated in FIGs. 2A and 2B comprises a sleeping portion 310 and a storage portion 320. The sleeping portion 310 is positioned above the storage portion 320. The illustrated sleeping portion 310 has a width greater than the width of the storage portion 320. In particular, the sleeping portion 310 is configured to extend from both side faces of the storage portion 320. In particular, the sleeping portion 310 comprises two side faces separated by the width of the sleeping portion 310, and the storage portion 320 comprises two side faces separated by the width of the storage portion 320. The sleeping portion 310 may have a length of at least 1.5 metres, preferable at least 1.7 metres, preferably at least 1.8 metres, and preferably at least 1.9 metres. The width of the sleeping portion 310 may be at least 1.3 metres, preferably at least 1.4 metres. The height of the sleeping portion 310 may be at least 0.7 metres, preferably at least 0.8 metres. The storage portion 320 may have a length similar to the sleeping portion 310. In some examples, the storage portion 310 may have a length between 1.5 metres and 2 metres. The storage portion 310 may have a length of at least 1.5 metres, preferable at least 1.7 metres, preferably at least 1.8 metres, and preferably at least 1.9 metres. The width of the storage portion 320 may be at least 1 metre, and preferably at least 1.2 metres. The height of the storage portion 320 may be at least 0.7 metres, preferably at least 0.8 metres. The width of the illustrated example is along the z-axis, similar to the camper van as illustrated in FIGs. 1A and 1B. The sleeping portion 310 and the storage portion 320 are illustrated as having the same length (i.e., along the x-axis). The sleeping portion 310 comprises an entranceway 311, configured to enable a user to enter the sleeping portion 310. The entranceway 311 is positioned to face towards the interior of the camper van (i.e., to face towards the front of the camper van) when the extendable compartment 200 is positioned in the camper van. The extendable compartment 200 is arranged such that a user may enter the sleeping portion 310 when the extendable compartment 200 is in the open configuration and when the extendable compartment 200 is in the closed configuration. The sleeping portion 310 comprises a bottom surface 312 configured to provide support for users to sleep in the sleeping portion 310. As illustrated, the bottom surface 312 of the sleeping portion 310 is arranged to extend from (i.e., beyond) both side faces of the storage portion 320. In some examples, the bottom surface 312 may abut a top surface of the storage portion 320. In some examples, the bottom surface 312 may form the top surface of the storage portion 320. In the illustrated example, the sleeping portion 310 extends from the storage portion 320 to a greater extent on one side of the storage portion 320 than the other side of the storage portion 320. In particular, the sleeping portion 310 extends further in the negative z-direction from the storage portion 320 (i.e., from the side face of the storage portion 320 illustrated in FIGs. 2A and 2B) than it does in the positive z-direction from the storage portion 320 (i.e., from the side face of the storage portion 320 not visible in FIGs. 2A and 2B). Therefore, the bottom surface 312 of the sleeping portion 310 may be arranged to extend further from one side face of the storage portion 320 than the other side face of the storage portion 320. In the illustrated example, a first overhang 313 extends further than a second overhang 314. In some examples, the bottom surface 312 of the sleeping portion 310 may extend equally from the side faces of the storage portion 320. In other words, the first overhang 313 may extend the same (or a similar) distance as the second overhang 314. The storage portion 320 comprises a rear door 322 positioned in a rear face 2146 of the storage portion 320 (i.e., positioned in a rear face of the moveable cabin 210). The rear door 322 is configured to be accessible from an exterior of a camper van (i.e., when the extendable compartment 200 is positioned, and secured, in a camper van). In some examples, the storage portion 320 may comprise at least one side door (not illustrated) positioned in a side face of the storage portion 320 (i.e., positioned in a side face of the moveable cabin 210). In the illustrated example, the side faces of the storage portion 320 are aligned with the x-axis. The at least one side door is configured to be accessible from an exterior of the camper van (i.e., when the extendable compartment 200 is positioned, and secured, in a camper van). In some examples, when the extendable compartment 200 is positioned in a camper van, the side door may be accessible (e.g., only accessible) when the extendable compartment 200 is in an open configuration. In other words, the side door may be hidden from view of a user outside the camper van when the extendable compartment 200 is in a closed configuration. In some examples, the storage portion 320 may comprise at least one side door positioned in each side face of the storage portion 320. The storage portion 320 may comprise a single open storage space. In some examples, the storage portion 320 may comprise plurality of sections, each accessible from a respective door. For example, a side door in each side face of the storage portion may allow access to a respective section of the storage portion. In the illustrated example, the moveable cabin 300 comprises at least one window 315 positioned on a side face of the moveable cabin 300. In particular, the at least one window 315 is positioned on a side face of the sleeping portion 310. The moveable cabin 300 may comprise one window on each of the side faces of the moveable cabin 300. The illustrated moveable cabin 300 also comprises a window 316 on an upper face of the moveable cabin 300. In other words, the illustrated moveable cabin 300 comprises a skylight in the sleeping portion 310. One or more of the windows positioned in the sleeping portion 310 may be openable. For example, the one or more openable window may be hinged or slideable. FIGs. 3A and 3B illustrate the extendable compartment 200 without the moveable cabin 300. In particular, the stabilising plate 400 and the telescopic rails 500 are illustrated in a closed configuration (FIG. 3A) and an open configuration (FIG. 3B). In particular, the stabilising plate 400 comprises a base plate 410. The base plate 410 is configured to be positioned (substantially) parallel to the internal floor when the stabilising plate 400 is secured to the internal floor of the camper van. In other words, the base plate 410 is configured to be positioned horizontally when the stabilising plate 400 is secured to the internal floor of the camper van. In the illustrated example, the base plate 410 comprises a plurality of holes to reduce the weight of the stabilising plate 400. The stabilising plate 400 also comprises two side walls 420 extending from the base plate 410. As illustrated, the side walls 420 extend along the length of the base plate 410, and are positioned along a respective edge of the base plate 410. The side walls 420 extend vertically (i.e., upwards) from the base plate 410. In some examples, the side walls 420 may have a height (i.e., along the y-axis) of at least 0.17 metres. Each telescopic rail 500 is secured to an internal surface of a respective side wall 420 of the stabilising plate 400. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the telescopic rails 500 do not extend from the stabilising plate 400 when the extendable compartment 200 is in the closed configuration. The width of the base plate 410 is greater than the width of the storage portion 320 of the moveable cabin 300. Therefore, the moveable cabin 300 is configured to be positioned above the stabilising plate 500 when the extendable compartment 200 is in the closed configuration. The moveable cabin 300 is configured to be aligned with the stabilising plate 400 (i.e., the base plate 410) when the extendable compartment 200 is in the closed configuration. In other words, the length of the moveable cabin 300 is aligned with the length of the base plate 410 when the extendable compartment 200 is in the closed configuration. To secure the stabilising plate 400 to the floor of the camper van, the extendable compartment 200 may comprise a plurality of fasteners configured to secure the stabilising plate 400. The fasteners are configured to secure the stabilising plate 400 (i.e., the base plate 410) to the top of the internal floor of a camper van. Each fastener is configured to extend through the floor of the camper van. In some examples, the stabilising plate 400 may have corresponding holes to receive at least five fasteners, preferably at least ten fasteners, preferably at least twelve fasteners, configured to secure the stabilising plate 400. In some examples, the fasteners may be bolts and corresponding nuts, such that the nuts are to be positioned underneath the camper van when the extendable compartment 200 is secured to the camper van. In some examples, the extendable compartment 200 may comprise at least one securing plate configured to at least partially receive at least one of the plurality of fasteners. The at least one securing plate is configured to be positioned underneath the floor of the camper van (i.e., positioned at an underside of the floor of the camper van) when the stabilising plate 400 is secured to the camper van. In some examples, the extendable compartment 200 may comprise a single securing plate to (at least partially) receive each of the plurality of fasteners. In some examples, the extendable compartment may comprise a respective securing plate, and each securing plate may be configured to receive and secure one (or more) of the plurality of fasteners. In some examples, there may be at least four securing plates. In some examples, there may be at least one securing plate for each fastener. In some examples, there may be at least twelve securing plates. In some examples, the securing plate (or plates) may have a minimum size (width or length) of 0.1 metre. In some examples, the securing plate or plates may have a width of at least 0.1 metre. In some examples, the securing plate or plates may have a length of at least 0.1 metre. In some examples, the securing plate or plates may have a thickness of at least 0.03 metre. In some examples, the securing plate (or plates) may be formed from stainless steel. FIGs. 4A and 4B show an example rear section (e.g., of a camper van, such as a living section) with an example extendable compartment 200 in a closed configuration and an open configuration, respectively. In particular, the extendable compartment 200 illustrated in FIGs. 4A and 4B may be the same extendable compartment 200 as described above. The camper van may be the same camper van as described above in relation to FIGs. 1A and 1B. In some examples, the rear section illustrated in FIGs. 4A and 4B may be a trailer configured to be attachable to a vehicle for towing. The stabilising plate of the extendable compartment 200 is positioned towards the rear of the camper van. This therefore enables the rear face of the moveable cabin 300 to form the rear face of the camper van. This also enables the moveable cabin 300 to extend from the rear of the camper van, and in some examples the moveable cabin 300 may extend from the rear of the camper van by at least 1.5 metres, preferably at least 1.8 metres. As illustrated, the extendable compartment 200 is configured to be positioned over rear wheels, and therefore positioned over a rear axle. This advantageously supports the weight of the extendable compartment 200. In the illustrated example, the moveable cabin 300 comprises at least one side window 315, as described above. When the extendable compartment is in the closed configuration (FIG. 4A), the at least one side window 315 of the moveable cabin 300 is configured to at least partially align with a side window of the camper van. This advantageously enables light to enter the camper van through the side window of the camper van when the extendable compartment 200 is in a closed configuration. As discussed above, the sleeping portion 310 of the moveable cabin 300 has a wider width than the storage portion 320. This allows the camper van to include additional interior furniture (e.g., fixed furniture like sofas or chairs) which does not need to be moved when the extendable compartment 200 moves from the open configuration to the closed configuration. When the extendable compartment 200 moves from the open configuration to the closed configuration, the storage portion 320 is positioned between the additional interior furniture. Therefore, when the extendable compartment 200 is in the closed configuration, the camper van may comprise additional interior furniture (fixed furniture) located adjacent the storage portion of the extendable compartment 200. A part of the sleeping portion 310 may therefore be positioned above the additional interior furniture when in a closed configuration. In some examples, the extendable compartment 200 may comprise a rear panel, as described above, at the rear of the moveable cabin 300 (not shown). FIG. 5 illustrates a front view of an example moveable cabin 600, comprising a sleeping portion 610 and a storage portion 620. The moveable cabin 600 may the same moveable cabin 300 as described above. The illustrated the moveable cabin 600 comprises a handle 622 positioned on a front face of the moveable cabin 600. The handle 622 is configured to enable a user to move the extendable compartment 200, for example from an open configuration to a closed configuration, or from a closed configuration to an open configuration. In the illustrated example, the handle 622 is positioned towards the top of the storage portion 620. The handle 622 is configured to face the interior of a camper van, i.e., when the extendable compartment 200 is positioned in a camper van. In addition, the front face of the storage portion 620 may comprise a door 624, which is configured to provide access to storage from an interior of a camper van. The extendable compartment 200 comprises at least one locking mechanism configured to lock the extendable compartment in the open configuration. In FIG. 5, the at least one locking mechanism 626 is positioned at least partially in the moveable cabin 600, and there are two locking mechanisms. The locking mechanisms 626 are internal locking mechanisms configured to be positioned inside a camper van when the extendable compartment 200 is positioned in the camper van. The at least one locking mechanism 626 is positioned towards a bottom surface of the moveable cabin 600. The at least one locking mechanism 626 is configured to move in a (gravitationally) downward motion to engage. In some examples, the at least one locking mechanism 626 may be configured to move in a sideward motion to engage and disengage. In some examples, the at least one locking mechanism 626 is a latch configured to be received by a corresponding strike plate when the locking mechanism 626 is engaged. The strike plate is configured to at least partially receive the latch so that the extendable compartment 200 is locked in place (i.e., not moveable until the latch is removed from the strike plate). The latch may be configured to move in a downward motion when engaged. The strike plate may be positioned on the floor of the camper van. In some examples, the stabilising plate 400 of the extendable compartment 200 may comprise the strike plate. In some examples, the latch may comprise a flat surface configured to abut against at least a part of the corresponding strike plate when the at least one latch is received by the corresponding strike plate. In some examples, the at least one locking mechanism 626 may comprise a bias. The bias is configured to engage the at least one locking mechanism 626. When the locking mechanism 626 is a latch, the bias is configured to position the latch into the strike plate when the latch is aligned with the strike plate. The extendable compartment 200 may comprise a respective lock handle (not shown) configured to move the at least one locking mechanism 626. In particular, the lock handle is configured engage and disengage the at least one locking mechanism 626. When the locking mechanism 626 comprises a bias, the lock handle may be configured to receive a force from a user which opposes the bias, allowing the locking mechanism 626 to disengage. In FIG. 5, the extendable compartment 200 comprises an upper sealing surface 630. The upper sealing surface 630, as illustrated, may be a protruding surface. The upper sealing surface 630 comprises a seal configured to form a weather-proof seal when the extendable compartment 200 is positioned in a camper van and when the extendable compartment 200 is in the open configuration. In particular, the seal of the upper sealing surface 630 is configured to abut against a seal positioned towards a rear of a camper van when the extendable compartment 200 is positioned in a camper van and when the extendable compartment 200 is in the open configuration. The seal of the upper sealing surface 630 is arranged to face the rear of the extendable compartment 200. As illustrated, the upper sealing surface 630 is positioned partially around the moveable cabin 600 (i.e., around the exterior of the moveable cabin 600). In particular, the upper sealing surface 630 is positioned around the (exterior of the) sleeping portion 610 of the moveable cabin 600. In some examples, the upper sealing surface 630 may extend across the (external) top surface of the moveable cabin 600 and at least partially along the (external) side surfaces of the moveable cabin 600. Although illustrated as being positioned at the end of the moveable cabin 600, the upper sealing surface 630 may be offset from the end, for example, towards the rear of the moveable cabin 600. The upper sealing surface 630 is arranged to follow the shape of at least a part of the moveable cabin 600, i.e., follow the shape of the sleeping portion 610. Although illustrated as extending to the side faces of the storage portion 620, the upper sealing surface 630 may not extend all the way to the side faces. In some examples, the upper sealing surface 630 may be integrally formed (as illustrated in FIG. 5). In some examples, the upper sealing surface 630 may comprise a plurality of surfaces each configured to provide a seal for the top surface, side surfaces, and bottom surface of the sleeping portion 610. The illustrated extendable compartment also comprises lower sealing surfaces 640. Like the upper sealing surface 630, the lower sealing surfaces 640 may be protruding surfaces. The lower sealing surfaces 640 each comprise a seal configured to form a weather-proof seal when the extendable compartment 200 is positioned in a camper van and when the extendable compartment 200 is in the open configuration. Although illustrated as extending to the upper sealing surface 630, in some examples the lower sealing surfaces 640 may extend the height of the storage portion 620. In some examples, the lower sealing surfaces 640 may be at least 5 mm thick, preferably at least 6 mm thick, preferably at least 7 mm thick, and preferably at least 8 mm thick. Where a structural feature has been described, it may be replaced by means for performing one or more of the functions of the structural feature whether that function or those functions are explicitly or implicitly described. The term ‘comprise’ is used in this document with an inclusive not an exclusive meaning. That is any reference to X comprising Y indicates that X may comprise only one Y or may comprise more than one Y. If it is intended to use ‘comprise’ with an exclusive meaning then it will be made clear in the context by referring to ‘comprising only one...’ or by using ‘consisting.’ In this description, reference has been made to various examples. The description of features or functions in relation to an example indicates that those features or functions are present in that example. The use of the term ‘example’ or ‘for example’ or ‘can’ or ‘may’ in the text denotes, whether explicitly stated or not, that such features or functions are present in at least the described example, whether described as an example or not, and that they can be, but are not necessarily, present in some of or all other examples. Thus ‘example’, ‘for example’, ‘can’, or ‘may’ refers to a particular instance in a class of examples. A property of the instance can be a property of only that instance or a property of the class or a property of a sub-class of the class that includes some but not all the instances in the class. It is therefore implicitly disclosed that a feature described with reference to one example but not with reference to another example, can where possible be used in that other example as part of a working combination but does not necessarily have to be used in that other example. Although examples have been described in the preceding paragraphs with reference to various examples, it should be appreciated that modifications to the examples given can be made without departing from the scope of the claims. Features described in the preceding description may be used in combinations other than the combinations explicitly described above. Although functions have been described with reference to certain features, those functions may be performable by other features whether described or not. The description of a feature, such as an apparatus or a component of an apparatus, configured to perform a function, or for performing a function, should additionally be considered to also disclose a method of performing that function. For example, description of an apparatus configured to perform one or more actions, or for performing one or more actions, should additionally be considered to disclose a method of performing those one or more actions with or without the apparatus. Although features have been described with reference to certain examples, those features may also be present in other examples whether described or not. The term ‘a’, ‘an’ or ‘the’ is used in this document with an inclusive not an exclusive meaning. That is any reference to X comprising a / an / the Y indicates that X may comprise only one Y or may comprise more than one Y unless the context clearly indicates the contrary. If it is intended to use ‘a’, ‘an’ or ‘the’ with an exclusive meaning then it will be made clear in the context. In some circumstances the use of ‘at least one’ or ‘one or more’ may be used to emphasis an inclusive meaning but the absence of these terms should not be taken to infer any exclusive meaning. The presence of a feature (or combination of features) in a claim is a reference to that feature or (combination of features) itself and to features that achieve substantially the same technical effect (equivalent features). The equivalent features include, for example, features that are variants and achieve substantially the same result in substantially the same way. The equivalent features include, for example, features that perform substantially the same function, in substantially the same way to achieve substantially the same result. In this description, reference has been made to various examples using adjectives or adjectival phrases to describe characteristics of the examples. Such a description of a characteristic in relation to an example indicates that the characteristic is present in some examples exactly as described and is present in other examples substantially as described. The above description describes some examples of the present disclosure however those of ordinary skill in the art will be aware of possible alternative structures and method features which offer equivalent functionality to the specific examples of such structures and features described herein above and which for the sake of brevity and clarity have been omitted from the above description. Nonetheless, the above description should be read as implicitly including reference to such alternative structures and method features which provide equivalent functionality unless such alternative structures or method features are explicitly excluded in the above description of the examples of the present disclosure. Whilst endeavouring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features believed to be of importance the Applicant may seek protection via the claims in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features hereinbefore referred to and / or shown in the drawings whether or not emphasis has been placed thereon. l / we claim:
Claims
1. An extendable compartment for a camper van, wherein the extendable compartment is configured to be positioned towards a rear of a camper van and configured to be moved between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the extendable compartment comprising:a moveable cabin;a stabilising plate configured to be secured to an internal floor of the camper van; andtwo telescopic rails each secured to the stabilising plate, wherein each telescopic rail is attached to a respective side of the moveable cabin, and wherein the two telescopic rails are configured to enable the extendable compartment to move between the open configuration and the closed configuration.
2. The extendable compartment of claim 1, wherein the stabilising plate comprises:a base plate configured to be positioned parallel to the internal floor when the stabilising plate is secured to the internal floor of the camper van; andtwo side walls extending from the base plate.
3. The extendable compartment according to claim 2, wherein each telescopic rail is secured to an internal surface of a respective side wall of the stabilising plate.
4. The extendable compartment according to any preceding claim, wherein the moveable cabin is configured to be positioned above the stabilising plate when the extendable compartment is in the closed configuration.
5. The extendable compartment according to any preceding claim, wherein the extendable compartment comprises a plurality of fasteners configured to secure the stabilising plate to the internal floor of a camper van, wherein each fastener is configured to extend through the floor of a camper van.
6. The extendable compartment according to claim 5, wherein the extendable compartment comprises at least one securing plate configured to at least partially receive at least one of the plurality of fasteners, and wherein the at least one securingplate is configured to be positioned underneath the floor of the camper van when the stabilising plate is secured to the camper van.
7. The extendable compartment of claim 6, wherein the extendable compartment comprises a respective securing plate for each of the plurality of fasteners.
8. The extendable compartment according to any preceding claim, wherein the extendable compartment is configured to be manually moved between the open configuration and the closed configuration.
9. The extendable compartment according to any preceding claim, wherein the extendable compartment comprises at least one locking mechanism configured to lock the extendable compartment in the open configuration.
10. The extendable compartment according to claim 9, wherein the locking mechanism is positioned at least partially in the moveable cabin.
11. The extendable compartment according to any of claims 9 or 10, wherein the locking mechanism is a latch configured to be received by a corresponding strike plate when the locking mechanism is engaged.
12. The extendable compartment according to any preceding claim, wherein the moveable cabin comprises a sleeping portion and a storage portion, wherein the sleeping portion is positioned above the storage portion, and wherein the width of the sleeping portion is greater than the width of the storage portion.
13. The extendable compartment according to claim 12, wherein the sleeping portion comprises a bottom surface which is arranged to extend from both side faces of the storage portion.
14. The extendable compartment according to claim 13, wherein the bottom surface of the sleeping portion is arranged to extend equally from both side faces of the storage portion.
15. The extendable compartment according to any of claims 12 to 14, wherein the storage portion comprises a rear door configured to be accessible from an exterior of a camper van, wherein the rear door is positioned in a rear face of the moveable cabin.
16. The extendable compartment according to any of claims 12 to 15, wherein the storage portion comprises at least one side door configured to be accessible from an exterior of the camper van, wherein the side door is positioned in a side face of the moveable cabin.
17. The extendable compartment according to claim 16, wherein, when the extendable compartment is positioned in a camper van, the side door is accessible when the extendable compartment is in an open configuration.
18. The extendable compartment according to any preceding claim, wherein the moveable cabin comprises at least one window positioned on a side face of the moveable cabin.
19. The extendable compartment according to any preceding claim, wherein the extendable compartment comprises an upper sealing surface, wherein the upper sealing surface comprises a seal configured to form a weather-proof seal when the extendable compartment is positioned in a camper van and when the extendable compartment is in the open configuration.
20. The extendable compartment according to claim 19, wherein the seal of the upper sealing surface is configured to abut against a seal positioned towards a rear of a camper van when the extendable compartment is positioned in a camper van and when the extendable compartment is in the open configuration.
21. The extendable compartment according to any of claims 19 or 20, wherein the upper sealing surface extends across the top surface of the moveable cabin and at least partially along the side surfaces of the moveable cabin.
22. The extendable compartment according to any preceding claim, wherein the extendable compartment comprises a rear panel affixed to the rear surface of themoveable cabin, wherein the rear panel is configured to form a rear face of a camper van.
23. The extendable compartment according to claim 22, wherein the rear panel 5 comprises a plurality of locking mechanisms configured to lock the extendable compartment in the closed configuration.
24. The extendable compartment according to any preceding claim, wherein the extendable compartment is configured to move at least 1.5 metres from the open 10 configuration to the closed configuration.
25. A camper van comprising an extendable compartment of any preceding claim.
Citation Information
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