Camping Inflatable Assembly

Abstract

The camping assembly of the present invention has a primary inflatable camping structure in the form of an awning (112). The awning (112) can be releasably secured to one side of a mobile home (102) or to the side of a tent / trailer tent / foldaway camper. Embedded or integral to the awning (112) is a pump module (80) which inflates the inflatable elements of the awning (112). In this embodiment, the pump module (80) is located at the lower end (119) of the first upright inflatable element (114a).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a camping assembly having an inflatable camping structure, and more particularly to a camping assembly having an embedded pump module for inflating the inflatable camping structure, and a method for inflating the camping structure. [Background technology]

[0002] Collapsible camping equipment, such as tents, camping trailers, and camping equipment, such as awnings or gazebos, can be complicated or time-consuming to assemble, for example, when the equipment is assembled from multiple components. Such components are susceptible to damage during assembly or during use, for example, by impact or high winds. To address these issues, such structures may be constructed with inflatable members, and the structure may be assembled by inflating the inflatable members using a source of compressed air, such as a pump. This configuration requires minimal assembly of parts.

[0003] The use of inflatable members also presents problems, requiring the user to bring a pump or other source of compressed air to the camping site. For larger inflatable structures (such as inflatable home tents), a hand-operated pump is impractical and typically requires a separate powered pump (e.g., an electric pump). Separate air sources are bulky, noisy, and inconvenient, and it is impractical to aerodynamically connect such air sources to the inflatable camping structure. Additionally, such air sources must be stored when not in use, potentially taking up valuable storage space within the camping structure. When multiple inflatable structures are used, separate air sources are required and must be compatible to connect each inflatable structure in turn.

[0004] The background to the present invention is described above. It is an object of the present invention to overcome at least one of the problems associated with the prior art, as discussed herein and elsewhere. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The camping assembly according to one aspect of the present invention has as its main component an inflatable camping structure, The inflatable camping structure has an elongated support member extending between a first end and a second end; an inflatable means for inflating the elongated support member to become a structural support element of the camping assembly; and a pump module for inflating the inflatable means; the pump module is disposed in series with the inflatable means and is positioned between the first end and the second end of the elongated support member; The longitudinal length of the elongate support member defined between the first end and the second end is the longitudinal length of the inflatable means in the expanded inflatable configuration plus the longitudinal length of the pump module.

[0006] The expandable means may consist of an expandable part (or element), preferably a single (single) expandable part / element and / or a single / single expandable part.

[0007] For the pump module, it is preferred that it extends between a first end of the elongated support member and one end of the expandable component / element, and for the expandable component / element, it is preferred that it extends between one end of the pump module and a second end of the elongated support member.

[0008] The inflatable means may have a first inflatable part and a second inflatable part, and the pump module may be located between the first and second inflatable parts.

[0009] The first inflatable component can extend between a first end of the elongated support member and a first end of the pump module, and the second inflatable component can extend between a second end of the pump module and a second end of the elongated support member.

[0010] The pump module may extend between a first end of the elongated support member and one end of the expandable means / element, and the expandable means / element may extend between one end of the pump module and a second end of the elongated support member.

[0011] One end of the pump module interfaces with an end of the expandable means / element such that the pump module extends between a first end of the elongate support member and the interface, and such that the expandable means / element extends between the interface and a second end of the elongate support member.

[0012] The pump module is positioned between a first inflatable part (element) and a second inflatable part (element), such that one end of the pump module forms a first interface with one end of the first inflatable part (element) and a second interface with one end of the second inflatable part (element), the first inflatable part (element) extends between a first end of the elongated support member and the first interface, and the second inflatable part (element) extends between the second interface and the second end of the elongated support member.

[0013] The pump module may be configured to define an elongate support member adjacent each expandable element.

[0014] It is preferable for the pump module to be aligned (arranged) with the inflatable means / elements, so that the pump module extends along a longitudinal axis and each of the inflatable means / elements also extends along the (same) longitudinal axis.

[0015] The pump module is preferably embedded in an elongated support member.

[0016] The pump module is preferably integrated into the inflatable means / element to form an elongated support member.

[0017] The longitudinal length of the elongate support member may be comprised of the longitudinal length of the pump module plus the longitudinal length of the inflatable means / element.

[0018] The pump module may comprise a (generally) cylindrical housing, the elongated support member may comprise a (generally) cylindrical member, or each expandable means / element may comprise a (generally) cylindrical element.

[0019] The elongate support member may extend along a first longitudinal axis, the pump module may extend along a second longitudinal axis, and the expandable means / element may extend along a third longitudinal axis.

[0020] The first, second and third longitudinal axes may all be coincident.

[0021] The elongate support members may comprise (generally) linear members, the (generally) linear members may comprise angled members, and / or may be curved / arcuated.

[0022] The longitudinal length of the pump module and each inflatable means / element may define the longitudinal length of the elongate support member.

[0023] Preferably, only a portion of the elongate support member (its longitudinal length) is inflatable, the remaining portion of the elongate support member (its longitudinal length) being defined by the pump module.

[0024] The pump module may extend from a first (longitudinal) end to a second (longitudinal) end. Each expandable element may extend from a first (longitudinal) end to a second (longitudinal) end, and the elongate support member may extend from the first (longitudinal) end to the second (longitudinal) end. The first end of the support member may be configured with the first end of the pump module, and the second end of the elongate support member may be configured with the second end of the expandable means / element. The second end of the pump module may be at an interface with the first end of the expandable means / element, the interface being spaced apart from the first end of the elongate support member and the second end of the elongate support member.

[0025] The first end of the pump module forms a base, which is preferably configured to support the elongated support member on the ground. The base has an angled surface such that, in use, the elongated support member can extend upwardly at an angle (non-vertical angle) of 30 degrees or more, preferably 45 degrees or more, more preferably 60 degrees or more. The angle can be less than 85 degrees, preferably less than 80 degrees.

[0026] The main camping structure is an inflatable net structure consisting of air poles and a canopy. The main inflatable structures include awnings. The main inflatable structures include gazebos.

[0027] The elongated support members can also act as air poles for the main camping structure.

[0028] The elongated support members may be upright support members or may be horizontal (or angled) support members.

[0029] The pump module may be located at a lower end of an elongated support member, which may comprise a centrally located support member spaced from the longitudinal ends of the elongated support.

[0030] The pump module also provides a foot for the elongated support member.

[0031] The elongated support members form the structural perimeter of the camping assembly, the inflatable means / elements form the legs of the structural perimeter, and the pump module forms the footing of the structural perimeter. The elongated support members form horizontally extending support members that provide structural support to the canopy ceiling and / or the canopy wall portions that contact the ground.

[0032] The expandable means / element may be connected to further expandable means / element(s). In particular, the upper end (second end) of the expandable element may be connected to one end of one or more (preferably two) expandable elements extending substantially perpendicular (or at an angle) thereto.

[0033] The main inflatable camping structure may include a donor valve configured to release air from the main inflatable camping structure.

[0034] The pump module preferably supports at least a portion of the inflatable means (inflatable element / component(s)). The pump module provides structural support for the inflatable means (inflatable element / component(s)). The pump module is preferably configured to maintain the inflatable means (inflatable element / component(s)) off the ground in use to protect the inflatable means (inflatable element / component(s)).

[0035] With regard to the inflatable means (inflatable element / part(s)), it is preferred to have the inflatable means (inflatable element / part(s)) in an upright configuration with a scaffold consisting of the pump module.

[0036] The elongate support member is preferably the first of a pair of elongate support members, and the length of the inflatable means of the first elongate support member is preferably shorter than the length of the inflatable means of the second elongate support member to accommodate a pump module of a predetermined height. Preferably, the first inflatable means (inflatable element / part(s)) forms part of the first elongate support portion and the second inflatable means (inflatable element / part(s)) forms part of the second elongate support portion, where the longitudinal length of the first elongate support member may be the same as the longitudinal length of the second elongate support member.

[0037] The expandable means / element may be tubular in shape and may be generally or substantially cylindrical in shape.

[0038] The pump module may comprise a generally cylindrical housing, which may be coaxial with the axis of the expandable means / element.

[0039] The elongate support member may comprise a sleeve. The inflatable means / element preferably comprises a bladder. The inflatable means / element may be provided within the sleeve. The pump module may be (at least partially) located within the sleeve. The sleeve may provide an opening and / or access around the pump module, allowing a user to access the port(s) and / or socket(s) and / or button(s) and / or controls provided on the pump module. The sleeve may also provide access to a battery compartment of said pump module. The sleeve may also provide a fluid entry window, allowing air to be admitted into and / or expelled from the pump module.

[0040] The sleeve may hold the pump module together with the expandable means / element, and preferably remains fixed to the expandable means / element with the latter in the expanded and contracted configurations.

[0041] The main inflatable camping structure is preferably stored in a storage configuration in which the pump module is secured to the inflatable means / element.

[0042] The sleeve may be freely positioned around the bladder, may be secured around the pump module, or may be secured around the top of the pump module.

[0043] The pump module preferably has a removable battery, and also preferably has a rechargeable battery. The pump module preferably has a battery receiver. The battery receiver may have a slot. The battery receiver may be configured to receive a battery perpendicular to the axis of the pump module housing.

[0044] The pump module preferably includes at least one auxiliary power distribution connector configured to distribute power to an auxiliary device, for example, the pump module may include one or more USB connectors for charging an auxiliary device such as a smartphone.

[0045] The camping assembly may include a lighting device, which may include one or more LED strips, that may be mounted on the inflatable camping structure, and may be powered by a power source (e.g., a battery) of the pump module.

[0046] A second aspect of the invention relates to a method of constructing an elongated support member for a camping assembly, namely: This camping assembly, an elongated support member extending between a first end and a second end; an inflatable camping structure having a main elongated support member having an inflatable means adapted to inflate into a structural support element of the camping assembly, and a pump module adapted to inflate the inflatable means; a pump module aligned with the inflatable means and positioned between the first and second ends of the elongated support member; A method of constructing a pump module, the method comprising: a longitudinal length of an elongated support member located between a first end and a second end of the pump module being equal to a longitudinal length of the pump module plus a longitudinal length of an inflatable means of an inflatable configuration; The present invention relates to a method for configuring inflation of an inflatable means by a pump module.

[0047] A camping assembly according to another aspect of the present invention comprises: an elongated support member extending between a first end and a second end; an inflatable camping structure having a main body including an elongated support member having an inflatable element and a pump module configured to inflate the inflatable element; The pump module extends between a first end of the elongated support member and one end of the expandable element, and the expandable element extends between one end of the pump module and a second end of the elongated support member.

[0048] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of constructing an elongated support member for a camping assembly, comprising the steps of: This camping assembly, an elongated support member extending between a first end and a second end; an inflatable camping structure having a main body including an elongated support member having an inflatable element and a pump module configured to inflate the inflatable element; the pump module extends between a first end of the elongated support member and one end of the expandable element, the expandable element extends between one end of the pump module and a second end of the elongated support member; and A method for configuring inflation of an inflatable means by a pump module.

[0049] It is preferred that the inflatable camping structure is a (fully) inflatable structure, the inflatable camping accessory is a (fully) deflated structure, and inflation of the inflatable camping accessory is achieved solely by the air contained within the inflatable camping accessory, without introducing additional air into the inflatable camping structure, e.g. from a pump, via an inflation valve in the inflatable camping structure.

[0050] Each of the donor valves may comprise a pressure relief valve configured to maintain a minimum pressure within the inflatable camping structure that, if the minimum pressure is exceeded, preferably allows air to be transferred from the inflatable camping structure to the inflatable camping appendage by the pressure relief valve.

[0051] The camping assembly may have a first inflatable volume and a second inflatable volume. The camping assembly preferably has a total inflatable volume. The total inflatable volume includes the volume of the main camping structure (awning) as well as the volume of the main inflatable camping structures. The first inflatable volume includes the inflatable volume of the main camping structure (awning) as well as the inflatable volume of the main camping structures. The second inflatable volume may include the inflatable volume of each inflatable camping appendage. Since the initial total volume is (substantially) equal to the final total volume, there is no need to introduce extra air. For example, no pump or other inflation means need to be used to introduce extra air.

[0052] The ratio of the first expandable volume to the second expandable volume can be 1:1 or greater, preferably 2:1 or greater, and more preferably 3:1 or greater. The ratio may be 4:1 or greater. In some embodiments, the ratio may be 5:1 or greater. In some embodiments, the ratio may be 10:1 or greater.

[0053] The inflatable volume of each inflatable camping accessory is preferably less than the inflatable volume of the main camping structure (awning) and / or the inflatable volume of the primary inflatable camping structure. The inflatable volume of each inflatable camping accessory is preferably less than 50%, preferably less than 25% (more preferably less than 20%) of the inflatable volume of the main camping structure (awning) and / or the inflatable volume of the primary inflatable camping structure.

[0054] The inflatable volume of the primary camping structure (awning) is less than the inflatable volume of the primary inflatable camping structure. The inflatable volume of the primary camping structure (awning) may be less than 50% of the inflatable volume of the primary inflatable camping structure.

[0055] It is preferred that the inflatable camping structure be a (sufficiently) inflatable structure and the inflatable camping accessories be a (sufficiently) deflated structure, and that inflation of the inflatable accessories be achieved solely by the air contained within the inflatable camping accessories, without the introduction of additional air into the inflatable camping structure, for example from a pump, via an inflation valve on the inflatable camping structure.

[0056] The method of the present invention allows the pressure relief valve to be used to regulate the air supply from the inflatable camping structure to the inflatable camping attachment, and allows the pressure within the inflatable camping structure to be maintained above a predetermined minimum that may be required to maintain the structural integrity of the inflatable camping structure, thereby eliminating the risk of the inflatable camping structure collapsing due to the supply of air to the inflatable camping attachment. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0057] The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a camping assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention having a mobile home with an awning. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the awning of FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing another embodiment of an awning for use in the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a camp assembly according to the present invention in which the pump module is centrally located along an elongated support member. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 shows yet another embodiment of an awning attached to a mobile home in accordance with the present invention. [Figure 6A-6B] 6A and 6B are perspective views of a pump module according to the present invention. [Figure 6C-6D] 6C and 6D are exploded views showing the pump module of FIGS. 6A and 6B. [Figure 7A-7B]7A and 7B are perspective views of a camping assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a camping assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve according to the present invention. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve according to the present invention. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10A is a cutaway perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve in accordance with the present invention. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a cutaway perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve in accordance with the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0058] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENTS The present invention provides a camping assembly having a main inflatable camping structure with an embedded pump module.

[0059] The invention is described herein with reference to an inflatable camping structure that stands upright on the ground. As used herein, the terms "upward", "upper" and related terms refer to the direction away from gravity when in use (e.g., toward the top in FIG. 1), and the terms "downward", "lower" and related terms refer to the opposite direction (e.g., toward the bottom in FIG. 1).

[0060] A first embodiment of a camping assembly 110 according to the present invention is shown in Figures 1 and 2. The camping assembly 110 has a primary inflatable camping structure in the form of an awning 112. Also shown in Figure 1 is a mobile home 102 with which the awning 112 can be used. The awning 112 has a number of elongated inflatable elements 114 (or inflatable parts) or air poles. The inflatable elements 114 are tubular and generally cylindrical. The awning 112 has first and second upright inflatable elements 114a, 114b. A first horizontal inflatable element 117a extends (or extends) from an upper end of the first upright inflatable element 114a towards the mobile home 102. A second horizontal inflatable element 117b extends from an upper end of the second upright inflatable element 114b towards the mobile home 102. A bridging inflatable element 115 extends between and connects the ends of the first and second upright inflatable members 114a, 114b. Together, the inflatable elements 114a, 114b form an air-pole inflatable network that supports the canopy (not shown) of the awning 112.

[0061] A pump module 80 is embedded in or integral with the awning 112 to inflate the inflatable element of the awning 112. Specifically, the pump module 80 is aligned with the inflatable means (inflatable element(s) or bladder(s)) of the elongated support member 78. As used herein, "aligned" refers to a configuration in which the pump module 80 and the expandable member (or elements) are adjacent to one another such that the longitudinal length of the elongated support member 78 is the longitudinal length of the pump module 80 plus the longitudinal length of the expandable member (or elements). In this configuration, the pump module is located between a first (longitudinal) end 77 and a second (longitudinal) end 79 of the elongated support member 78. This defines the longitudinal length of the elongated support member 78 as the length between the first end 77 and the second end 78, i.e., the longitudinal length of the pump module 80 plus the longitudinal length of the expandable means in the expanded configuration.

[0062] In the first embodiment, the pump module 80 is located at the lower end 119 of the first upright inflatable element 114a. This pump module 80 forms the scaffolding for the first upright element 114a. Thus, in this embodiment, the length of the first upright inflatable element 114a is shorter than the length of the second upright inflatable element 114b. In this configuration, the pump module 80 forms part of the structure of the awning 112. The first upright inflatable element 114a is at least partially supported by the pump module 80.

[0063] That is, the pump module 80 and the first upright inflatable element 114a constitute the elongated support member 78 of the awning 112. The pump module 80 extends from the first lower end 77 of the support member 78 toward the first upright inflatable element 114a, which extends between the pump module 80 and the second upper end 79 of the support member 78. The pump module 80 is generally cylindrical. The pump module 80 is coaxial with the first upright inflatable element 114a. The pump module 80 and the inflatable element 114a are coaxial with the support member 78. In this embodiment, the base of the pump module 80 rests on the ground on which the awning 112 is assembled. The pump module 80 has an air pump that connects to an inlet (not visible in FIGS. 1 and 2) of the first upright inflatable element 114a to inflate the awning 112. The outlet 89 of the air pump 84 may be directly connected to the interior of the inflatable element 114a, i.e., there is no valve therebetween.

[0064] The awning 112 has a donor valve 116 configured to release air from the inflatable element. The donor valve 116 connects to an inflatable device, such as an inflatable camping accessory, to inflate the inflatable device with air from the awning 112. When inflated, the awning 112 acts as a reservoir to store air under pressure that can be used to inflate other devices via the donor valve 116. In a first embodiment, the donor valve 116 is located on the second upright inflatable element 114b. The donor valve 116 is located adjacent the lower end of the second upright inflatable element 114b. In this configuration, a user can easily access the donor valve 116 to inflate the inflatable device.

[0065] 6A, 6B, 6C and 6D, pump module 80 includes a generally cylindrical housing 81 having an upper portion that becomes pump housing 82 and a coaxial lower portion that becomes battery housing 83. Pump housing 81 houses pump (air pump) 84 of pump module 80. Pump housing 81 defines an outlet opening 85 in a top wall of pump housing 82. Outlet opening 85 is circular and coaxial with cylindrical pump housing 82. Pump housing 82 defines an inlet opening 86 in a side wall. Battery housing 83 defines a generally rectangular battery slot 87 in a side wall of battery housing 83. Slot 87 is sized to receive a removable battery 88 of pump module 80. Here, battery housing 83 includes a battery receiver or holder.

[0066] As can be seen in Figures 6C and 6D, the pump 84 is generally cylindrical and sized to fit within the pump housing 82. The pump 84 has a tubular outlet 89 that projects upwardly from the top of the pump 84. An inlet or intake 90 for the pump 84 projects outwardly from a side wall of the pump 84. The inlet 90 is provided with a cover to prevent the ingress of water. In the assembled condition of the pump module 80 (shown in Figures 6A and 6B), the pump outlet 89 is aligned with and extends from the outlet opening 85, and the pump inlet 90 is aligned with and extends from the inlet opening 86.

[0067] The pump outlet 89 connects to an inlet (not shown) of an inflatable awning. Specifically, the outlet 89 connects to an inlet of a first upright inflatable element. Thus, the pump 84 can inflate the inflatable element of the awning 112. Additionally, the pump 84 can pump air out of the awning 112, causing the awning 112 to collapse. In this manner, the awning 112 can collapse more quickly and / or completely than if it were collapsed by hand. Thus, using the pump 84 to collapse the awning 112 (or other inflatable structure) can result in it being collapsed more compactly (e.g., for storage) as compared to a user collapsing it by hand.

[0068] A removable or detachable battery 88 is inserted into the battery slot 87 and housed within the battery housing 83. In this embodiment, the removable battery 88 is a rechargeable battery. In use, the battery 88 is inserted into the battery housing 83 in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the housing 81. The battery housing 83 is configured to releasably retain the battery 88 so that the battery 88 can be easily removed for charging / replacement. For example, the battery 88 can be releasably engaged by a push-to-secure or push-to-release mechanism. In some embodiments, the battery can be lockable to the battery housing. For example, the battery housing can include a locking mechanism to prevent unauthorized removal of the battery from the pump module.

[0069] One particular problem with some embodiments is the need to locate the pump module 80 adjacent to a power source to ensure operation of the pump 84. This requirement significantly limits the usefulness of such configurations. To address this problem, a preferred embodiment of the present invention uses a removable battery 88. For example, a pump module 80 with an integral rechargeable battery is preferred for use in a location away from the power source. Such a unit is easier to manufacture and more reliable, including being waterproof. However, the preferred embodiment of the present invention is designed with a removable battery 88, which has been found to increase the applicability of the present invention. In a preferred embodiment, a kit with a second battery is also available. Thus, the provision of a kit with a first battery and a second battery allows a user to remove and charge one battery while still allowing the first battery to be used. Removing the battery eliminates the need to remove the entire pump module from the camping assembly.

[0070] As mentioned above, the presence of two interchangeable batteries ensures that the pump module is always available without having to wait for one of the batteries to charge. In some circumstances, such a wait may require the user to manually pump air into the structure. Furthermore, the use of one or more rechargeable batteries in this manner allows the battery(ies) to be used to power auxiliary equipment. For example, the battery may be used to power a caravan mover. This flexibility is a great improvement over stand-alone pump modules incorporating a single battery. If such a module does not have a battery or has an integrated pump module, it would need to be replaced as a complete unit with a complete camping assembly. Thus, the preferred embodiment of the invention can be maintained and the battery can be upgraded with new batteries during its life.

[0071] Additionally, pump module 80 includes an electronics module 91 located between battery 88 and pump 84. Electronics module 91 provides power to pump 84 from battery 88. Electronics module 91 may include a control unit for controlling pump 84. For example, the pump may be operated remotely (e.g., using a remote control device and / or a smartphone app).

[0072] Additionally, the pump module 80 includes auxiliary electrical connectors. In this embodiment, the pump module includes a pair of electrical output connectors 92 located within the top wall of the pump housing 81. The electrical output connectors (which are 2-pin figure-of-eight connectors in this embodiment) are configured to provide power to auxiliary devices. Additionally, the pump module includes a pair of universal serial bus (USB) connectors (sockets) 93 located on the side walls of the pump housing 81. Using these connectors, the pump module 80 can provide power to auxiliary devices. For example, it can charge devices such as smartphones, or it can provide power to power speakers, lights, Wi-Fi dongles, and other accessories. The electronics module 91 distributes power from the removable battery 88 to the auxiliary electrical connectors. That is, the pump module 80 can form the power distribution hub of the inflatable camping structure 112, which is the main part to which one or more auxiliary electrical devices can be connected.

[0073] In some embodiments, the awning 112 (or other primary inflatable camping structure) can be equipped with lighting (e.g., LED lighting) that can be powered by batteries housed in a power module. The lighting can be integrated into the awning or can be recessed. Referring back to FIG. 2, in this embodiment, the awning 112 has an LED lighting strip 111 located within the underside of the bridging element 115. A cable 113 runs along the first inflatable element 114a and distributes power from the pump module 80 to the LED strip 111.

[0074] Additionally, the pump module 80 has an auxiliary electrical input connector 94, which in this embodiment is a 12 volt cigarette lighter connector (also known as an automotive auxiliary power connector), i.e., power can be delivered to the pump module 80 from another external power source, such as a vehicle.

[0075] In addition to the above features associated with one or more auxiliary power distribution connectors, the use of a removable and replaceable battery 88 provides further system improvement. A system with a single built-in battery cannot be used to distribute auxiliary power because the battery must be charged in order for the primary pump to function. For example, when the auxiliary device is used in the camping assembly, the built-in battery cannot be removed and charged at the camp site. The purpose of the pump is to keep the tent fully inflated, which requires that the battery be constantly charged. Thus, the use of a removable battery 88 in conjunction with an auxiliary power supply connector provides a significant improvement and versatility to the system.

[0076] 7A and 7B, in a second embodiment of a camping assembly 210, the main inflatable camping structure includes a gazebo 212. The gazebo 212 includes a plurality of elongated inflatable elements 214 or air poles. The gazebo includes four generally upright inflatable elements that, when inflated, extend upwardly from the base of the gazebo 212 and from one another, meeting at the roof of the gazebo. The gazebo has a generally square base with each inflatable element extending upwardly from a corner of the square. The inflatable elements 214 are tubular and generally cylindrical. The inflatable elements 214 form a network of inflated air poles that support the canopy 215 of the gazebo 212.

[0077] The gazebo 212 is provided with a recessed or integral pump module 80 for inflating the gazebo's inflatable element 214. The pump module 80 is substantially the same as the pump module 80 described above with respect to the first embodiment. In this second embodiment, the pump module 80 is located at the lower end 219 of the first upright inflatable element 214a of the gazebo 212. That is, the first upright inflatable element 214a is at least partially supported by the pump module 80. The pump module 80 and the first upright inflatable element 214a thus form the elongated support member 178 of the gazebo 212. The pump module 80 extends from the first lower end 177 of the support member 178 towards the first upright inflatable element 214a, which extends between the pump module 80 and the second upright upper end (not visible in FIG. 7B) of the support member 178. In this embodiment, the base of the pump module 80 is configured to rest on the ground upon which the gazebo 212 is assembled. The pump module 80 has an air pump 84 that connects to an inlet (not shown) of the first upright inflatable element 214a to inflate the gazebo 212. The pump module 80 is generally cylindrical. In some embodiments, the pump module 80 may be coaxial with at least a portion of the first upright inflatable element.

[0078] The gazebo 212 has a donor valve 216 configured to release air from the inflatable element 214. The donor valve 216 is adapted to connect to an inflatable device, such as an inflatable camping accessory, so that air from the gazebo 212 can be used to inflate the inflatable device. When inflated, the gazebo 212 becomes a reservoir of air stored under pressure that can be used to inflate other devices via the donor valve 216. In this first embodiment, the donor valve 216 is located on the second upright inflatable element 214b diagonally opposite from the first inflatable element 214a. The donor valve 216 is adjacent to the lower end of the second upright inflatable element 214b, allowing a user to easily access the donor valve 216 and inflate the inflatable device.

[0079] In the above embodiment, the pump module 80 is embedded or integrated into the inflatable camping structure 112, 212. This means that no separate air source (e.g. pump or compressor) is required to inflate the inflatable structure 112, 212. In the present invention, since the pump module 80 is integrated into the structure (e.g. support structure) of the inflatable camping structure, the pump module 80 does not occupy a significant amount of the internal space (e.g. storage or storage space) of the inflatable camping structure 112, 212. This allows the camping assembly 110, 210 to be constructed more compact overall. The pump module 80 also acts as a power distribution hub or power source for the main inflatable structure 112, 212. This means that no external power source (such as a mains connection or connection to a caravan battery) is required. Devices and accessories can be powered by the battery 88 by connecting to the pump module 80. One or more removable or rechargeable batteries can be used, so that the batteries in the pump module can be replaced as required.

[0080] Another embodiment of the present invention, shown in FIG. 3, has a pump module 80 that sits on the base (lower end 77) of an elongated support member 78, similar to the above. The elongated support member extends upward from the lower end 77 to an upper end 79, and in this embodiment, the elongated support member extends upward at an angle. Furthermore, the elongated support member 78 is not perfectly linear, but is tilted. As shown in FIG. 3, the elongated support member 78 has an elbow portion, where the upper portion of the elongated support member 78 is at an angle relative to the lower portion of the elongated support member 78. To facilitate this configuration, the shape of the pump module 80 forms the lower end of the tilted elongated support member 78. Specifically, the base (bottom surface) of the pump module 80 is angled relative to the (cylindrical) sides, and the base is configured to be flat from which the elongated support member 78 can extend at an upward angle.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 4, in another embodiment of the present invention, the inflatable element 114a has a first inflatable part 124a and a second inflatable part 124b. The pump module 80 is configured to be located between the first inflatable part 124a and the second inflatable part 124b. In this configuration, the elongated support member 78 extends between a first end 77 and a second end 79, and the elongated support member 78 has an inflatable means that expands to become a structural support element for the camping assembly. The pump module 80 is configured to inflate the inflatable means, and in this embodiment, the pump module 80 is aligned with the inflatable means between the first end 77 and the second end 79 of the elongated support member 78. Further, the longitudinal length of the elongated support member 78 between the first end 77 and the second end 79 is the combined longitudinal length of the pump module 80 and the length of the inflatable means (e.g., first longitudinal / elongated inflatable part 124a and second longitudinal / elongated inflatable part 124b) in the inflated configuration.

[0082] The inflatable means has a first inflatable part 124a and a second inflatable part 124b. The pump module 80 is located between the first inflatable part 124a and the second inflatable part 124b. The first inflatable part 124a extends between a first end 77 of the elongated support member 78 and a first end of the pump module 80, and the second inflatable part 124b extends between a second end of the pump module 80 and a second end 79 of the elongated support member 78.

[0083] Yet another embodiment and configuration of the present invention is shown in Figure 5. In this embodiment, the elongated support member 78 is a horizontal member that may be adjacent to the ground (see Figure 5) or may be spaced from the ground at an upper position (e.g., at support member 114b). In this configuration, as above, the pump module 80 is located at the center of the elongated support member 78 (spaced from ends 77, 79), thereby forming first and second inflatable parts 124a, 124b.

[0084] The present invention also provides a camping assembly 10 having a primary inflatable camping structure (foldable trailer tent 12), a primary (secondary) inflatable camping structure (awning 18) and inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24. Specifically, the camping assembly 10 provides a system of inflatable camping devices.

[0085] The term "camping assembly" is intended to encompass camping and / or caravanning equipment and gear. Specifically, camping assemblies may include mobile homes, tents, and tent trailers, or a combination thereof.

[0086] The system is configured to allow air sharing between the inflatable devices by providing donor valves that release air from at least some of the inflatable devices. Each donor valve can be connected to an inflatable valve to inflate another one of the inflatable devices. The inflatable valves can be pneumatically connected to each other. That is, by interconnecting the inflatable valves, air from another one of the inflatable devices that is already inflated can be used to inflate one or more of the inflatable devices. An advantage of this configuration is that only a single source of pressurized air (e.g., a pump) is required, which may be integrated with one of the inflatable devices or embedded in the one device. A separate source of pressurized air, which may be inconvenient to store and transport, is not required. Instead, the main inflatable camping structure (which may have an air source such as a built-in pump) can be used as an air reservoir from which other inflatable devices can be inflated. That is, after the main inflatable camping structure is inflated, the main camping structure, i.e. the awning, can be inflated and can be at least partially inflated using only the air stored in the main inflatable camping structure, without the need for a separate pump. The main inflatable camping structure or the awning (main main camping structure) can then be used in a similar manner to inflate the inflatable camping accessories. The inflatable device may simply have an inflatable element such as an air pole. As noted above, in this embodiment the awning would be the main camping structure and the associated tent / trailer tent (or mobile home) would be the main camping structure.

[0087] In a preferred embodiment, the inflatable camping structure is first in a (fully) inflated state and the inflatable camping accessory is in a (fully) deflated state, and the inflation of the inflatable camping accessory is achieved only with the air present in the inflatable camping accessory, without the need to specifically introduce air into the inflatable camping structure, e.g. from a pump and through an inflation valve (air injection valve) of the inflatable camping structure.

[0088] In a first preferred embodiment, the camping assembly 10 includes an awning 18 that is removably secured to the side of a mobile home. However, in other embodiments, the awning 18 can be removably secured to the side of a tent / trailer tent / foldaway camper. The awning 18 includes a canopy and a network of inflatable air poles. The awning 18 can be inflated by a removable pump, by a buried pump, or by air from another inflatable camping structure. The awning 18 includes a donor valve 16 that inflates the camping attachments 20, 22, 24 by providing a volume of air from the air poles 26 to the camping attachments 20, 22, 24. This allows the camping attachments to be inflated very quickly and the removal of air does not significantly impact the structural stability of the awning 18. This provides an easy access and use of an air source, which is advantageous when camping, since the power supply to the electric pump is unstable and limited. Additionally, the amount of equipment and materials required is reduced. The air source can be replenished on a convenienc basis and as needed.

[0089] Another preferred, more complex form of camping assembly is described in detail below, in which the awning 18 is attached to a separate inflatable camping structure 12. Interconnecting valves 28, 29 connect the awning 18 and the inflatable camping structure 12 to provide air between the awning 18 and the inflatable camping structure 12.

[0090] In another preferred embodiment, the camping assembly includes an awning 18 (main camping structure) and the main inflatable camping structure includes a collapsible camper located within the trailer. The collapsible camper includes a network of inflatable poles that support a canopy and create an interior sheltered area. The trailer provides a solid floor that may be elevated above ground level. The awning 18 also includes a network of inflatable poles that support a canopy and create an interior sheltered area. Finally, the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 are generally small (low volume) devices / apparatus / equipment, such as one or more of a gazebo, wind brake, extra tent, inflatable paddle pool, awning, inflatable ball, inflatable mattress and / or inflatable seat (chair or sofa), etc.

[0091] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a camping assembly 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The camping assembly 10 includes a plurality of inflatable devices. In this embodiment, the plurality of inflatable devices includes a plurality of camping inflatable devices. The plurality of inflatable devices includes a main inflatable camping structure, an awning (main camping structure), and a plurality of inflatable appendages. In this embodiment, the main camping structure includes a tent 12. The tent 12 includes inflatable elements 14 (air poles), which provide an inflatable framework or support structure for the tent 12. In this embodiment, the inflatable elements 14 are generally tubular. In other embodiments, the main inflatable camping structure can be an awning, gazebo, or sun canopy.

[0092] When inflated, the main inflatable camping structure becomes a reservoir of air under pressure that can be used to inflate the awning 18 (primary camping structure). The main inflatable camping structure can have a source of pressurized air (not shown in FIG. 8). In particular, the main inflatable camping structure can include a pump or compressor that can be integral with the main inflatable camping structure. In some embodiments, the main inflatable camping structure can include a pump module (e.g., as described below) that connects to or is integral with the inflatable element of the main inflatable camping structure.

[0093] The main inflatable camping structure has at least one inlet or inflation valve (not shown) for inflating the main inflatable camping structure. In other embodiments where the main inflatable camping structure comprises a trailer tent or camper trailer, the pressurized air source can be provided within the trailer or buried therein. In this configuration, the pressurized air source does not need to be easily accessible to the user, since other devices can be inflated by connecting them to the donor valve 16. Thus, pumps and other air sources can be more efficiently integrated into the independent tent or trailer tent, for example, improving the use of space and weight distribution within the tent or trailer. It is convenient to distribute the power to the air source through the trailer or tent power source.

[0094] The primary inflatable camping structures and awnings 18 may each have at least one primary donor valve 16. As can be seen from FIG. 8, the tent 12 has two donor valves 16 and the awning has one donor valve 16. The donor valve 16 is located on one of the inflatable elements 14, 26 (such as an inflatable pole) that supports the tent 12 or awning 18. In other embodiments, more or less donor valves 16 may be provided. For example, if the primary inflatable camping structure has an inflatable support structure with one or more upright supports or legs, a donor valve 16 may be provided on one or more of the legs. It is noted that each donor valve 16 need not be located near the air source that inflates the tent 12. That is, each donor valve 16 may be located in a position that is easily accessible to the user, and there is no restriction on the location of the air source, as long as, for example, the air source is reliably hidden, secured, and / or noise from the air source is reliably suppressed.

[0095] Each donor valve 16 is connected to one of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 to inflate the inflatable camping accessory with air from the awning 18, and possibly the main inflatable camping structure 12. In this embodiment, each donor valve 16 is manually adjustable to control the airflow through the donor valve 16. In this manner, the airflow through the donor valve 16 can be controlled by turning the switch on and off to control the airflow rate.

[0096] 8, in this embodiment, an awning 18 is used, and the plurality of inflatable camping accessories includes a gazebo 20, a wind brake 22, and an auxiliary tent 24 (such as a shower tent or a bathroom tent). In other embodiments, the inflatable camping accessories may include (in addition to or instead of) an inflatable paddle pool, an inflatable mattress, an inflatable seat (such as a chair or sofa), or other camping accessories having inflatable elements. It is noted that in other embodiments, any inflatable camping accessory (such as a gazebo) may be used as an inflatable camping accessory.

[0097] The awning 18 has at least one interconnect (inflation) valve 28 which allows for inflation of the awning 18. The interconnect (inflation) valve 28 is adapted to connect to an interconnect (inflation) valve 29 on the main inflatable camping structure 12. The awning 18 has a donor valve 16 which allows air to be released from the awning 18.

[0098] In this embodiment, the awning 18 has an inflatable element 26 / air pole (inflatable support structure) that supports a canopy (not shown) of the awning 18. The awning 18 has an interconnect valve 28. The interconnect valve 28 is provided on the inflatable element 26 that effects inflation of the inflatable element 26 of the awning 18. The interconnect valve 28 is adapted to connect to an interconnect valve 29 of the tent 12.

[0099] The awning 18 has a donor valve 16 that releases air from the awning 18. The donor valve 16 is adapted to connect to an inflation valve 17 of one of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24. In this embodiment, the donor valve 16 is the same as the interconnecting valves 28, 29.

[0100] Each of the inflatable camping accessories 20,22,24 has at least one inflatable element 30. Each inflatable device 20,22,24 is provided with an inflation valve 17. The inflation valves 17 of the inflatable camping accessories 20,22,24 are provided on the inflatable elements 26,30.

[0101] Donor valve 16 (which in this embodiment is the same as interconnecting valves 28, 29) is shown in Figures 9-11. Figures 9A, 10A and 11 show donor valve 16 in a closed configuration. Figures 9B and 10B show the donor valve in an open configuration.

[0102] The donor valve 16 includes a valve body 32, a spigot 34, and a control nut 36. The valve body 32 is positioned at an opening in a wall 38 of an inflatable element (such as inflatable elements 26, 30). The valve body 32 is generally disk-shaped and has an inner side 40 that faces an interior 42 of the inflatable element, and an opposing outer side 44 that is spaced from the interior 42 of the inflatable element. The valve body 32 seals to the wall 38 of the inflatable element such that air flows to the wall opening only through the valve body 32. For example, the valve body 32 can be fused to the wall 38 of the inflatable element (e.g., fused to an air bladder of the inflatable element). The spigot 34 is generally tubular and extends away from the outer side 44 of the valve body 32 such that air can flow out of the inflatable element. The spigot 34 is configured to connect to an awning or inflatable camping accessory, as described below.

[0103] One or more exit pathways 46 extend into the valve body 32 between the inner portion 42 and the spigot 34 so that air can flow from the interior of the inflatable element and out through the spigot 34. As shown in Figures 10A and 10B, the exit pathways are arcuate and are formed by segments of an annular slot extending into the valve body 32. A first portion 48 of the exit pathway 46 extends between the inner portion 40 of the valve body 32 and a generally annular recess 50 located on the outer portion 44 of the valve body 32. A second portion 52 of the exit pathway 46 extends (radially inward) between the annular recess 50 and the bore of the spigot 34.

[0104] An annular recess 50 extends around the base of the spigot 34. The annular recess 50 is configured to receive a portion of the control nut 36. As described below, a portion of the control nut 36 can move into and out of the annular recess 50 to open and close the outlet passage 46 and allow or block the flow of air into the donor valve 16.

[0105] The control nut 36 is located on the exterior portion 44 of the valve body 32. The control nut 36 is attached to the spigot 34. The spigot 34 extends through an opening 54 in the control nut 36. The threaded surface of the spigot 34 is adapted to engage a corresponding threaded inner surface of the opening 54 such that the control nut 36 threadably engages the spigot 34. That is, turning the control nut 36 advances the control nut 36 toward or away from the valve body 32.

[0106] A generally annular projection 56 of the control nut 36 extends toward the inner portion 40 of the valve body 32. The annular projection 56 is adapted to engage the annular recess 50 and block the outlet passage 46 when the control nut 36 is moved to the closed position. When the control nut 36 is turned away from the valve body 32 (towards the open position), the outlet passage 46 is opened and air can flow from the interior 42 of the inflatable element into the spigot 34.

[0107] The radially inner portion of the annular projection 56 has a tapered surface 58 which engages a corresponding tapered surface 60 on the radially inner portion of the annular recess 50. A first sealing O-ring 62 is mounted on the tapered surface 60 of the annular recess 50. The first O-ring 62 is located between the first portion 48 and the second portion 52 of the outlet passage 46. In this configuration, as the annular projection 56 moves into or out of engagement with the annular recess 50, the outlet passage 46 gradually opens and closes as the tapered surfaces 58, 60 move toward or away from each other. As can be seen in Figures 9B and 10B, when the control nut 36 moves away from the valve body 32, the outlet passage 48 opens and air flows from the inner portion of the valve body to the spigot. Thus, the amount of air flowing to the donor valve 16 can be controlled.

[0108] The second sealing O-ring 64 is located between the radially outer surface of the annular projection 56 and the tubular recess 50 and prevents air from flowing between the radially outer surface of the projection 56 and the surface of the annular recess 50. When the radially outer surface of the annular projection 56 moves in a direction parallel to the radially outer surface of the annular recess, the surfaces slide past each other and no air can flow because the second O-ring 64 is located between them. That is, air can only flow to the valve via the spigot 34. Thus, no air can flow to the environment when the donor valve 16 is open and connected to an expansion valve or hose.

[0109] The spigot 34 may be open to the outside or may be connected to an inflatable element of an inflatable device. That is, the donor valve 16 provides a closable path for air to flow out of the inflatable element. Thus, the donor valve 16 allows air to be released from the awning 18. Note that the donor valve (when open) allows air to flow in the opposite direction from the spigot 34 to the valve body 32. In other embodiments, the donor valve may comprise a one-way valve. In some embodiments, the donor valve is switchable between an open and a closed configuration without regulating the flow rate.

[0110] The donor valve 16 also includes a pressure relief mechanism. The pressure relief mechanism is shown in a closed configuration in Figures 9A, 9B, and 10B, and in an open configuration in Figures 10A and 11. In this embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism includes a movable valve member 66 in the form of a disk located in a chamber 68 within the valve body 32. An inlet opening 70, having a diameter smaller than that of the chamber 68, extends between the interior 42 of the expandable element and the chamber 68. An outlet 72 extends between the chamber 68 and the spigot 34. The valve member 66 is larger in diameter than the inlet opening 70 and is biased to close the inlet opening 70 (in this embodiment by a spring located within the chamber 68). When the air pressure in the interior 70 of the expandable element reaches a threshold value, the air pressure moves the valve member 66 away from the inlet opening 70 (against the biasing force of the spring), opening the opening 70 and allowing air to flow into the chamber 68 and out the spigot 34. That is, there is less risk of damage to the expandable element due to excessive high pressure.

[0111] In some embodiments, a pressure relief valve can be used to minimize and maintain pressure within the main camping structure. For example, the valve can be closed with the hose / donor valve of the camping attachment connected to the donor valve of the main camping structure. In this configuration, air does not simply transfer from the main camping structure to the camping attachment. However, if the pressure in the main camping structure rises above the threshold pressure of the pressure relief valve, air will transfer from the main camping structure to the camping attachment. Depending on the situation, air only needs to be transferred from the camping structure if it does not cause the pressure in the camping structure to drop below a specific value. This prevents the main structure from collapsing due to the provision of too much air. Such a system may also be useful to regulate pressure changes that may be transferred from the main camping structure to the camping attachment during hot weather, for example, and that may be unnecessarily transferred from the camping attachment to the atmosphere.

[0112] The awning 18 is inflated with air from the main inflatable camping structure 12 by connecting the awning 18 to an interconnect valve 29 of the main inflatable camping structure 12. Each inflatable camping attachment 20, 22, 24 is inflated with air from the awning 18 by connecting the inflatable camping attachment 20, 22, 24 to a donor valve 16 of the awning 18.

[0113] Advantageously, each of the inflation valves 17 of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 can be connected to the donor valve 16 using a connector or adapter. In this embodiment, the connector comprises a flexible connector in the form of a hose 74. The connector comprises a connection means adapted to connect to the donor valve 16 and the inflation valve 17. For example, the hose 74, the donor valve 16 and the inflation valve 17 comprise corresponding portions of a "quick connect" coupling. In other embodiments, the valves and hoses can be connected by a screwfitting or screw-on connection arrangement. That is, the use of interconnecting hoses allows for quick and convenient connection of the inflatable devices. The connection means may be adapted so that the connectors (e.g., hoses) can be used in either orientation since they have the same portions at opposite ends. In the case of a hose, it may comprise a pressure relief valve (such as an in-line bleed valve) to prevent over-inflation and damage to the accessories 20, 22, 24 during inflation. It should be noted that with the camping assembly 10 of the present invention, since the device to be inflated does not need to be directly connected to the pump, a relatively short hose can be used and the donor valve 16 can be located in a location that is easily accessible to the user. In some embodiments, a stiff adapter or connector can be used in place of the hose.

[0114] In other embodiments, the donor valve 16 and the inflation valve 17 may be directly (e.g., rigidly) interconnected (e.g., without the use of connecting hoses). In this case, the donor valve 16 and the inflation valve 17 may have corresponding portions of a threaded connection configuration that directly interconnects the valves 16, 17. For example, the spigot 34 of each donor valve 16 may have a "quick connect" coupling or a threaded portion of a threaded connection. These configurations allow for quick and convenient connection of the donor valve 16 and the inflation valve 17. These direct (valve-to-valve) connections allow the attachments 20, 22, 24 to be connected to the awning 18 (or main camping structure 12) without the use of hoses, i.e., fewer and / or smaller parts are required. The direct connections also allow the inflation valve 17 to be rigidly connected to the donor valve 16, allowing the inflation valve 17 to be supported by the donor valve 16.

[0115] In some embodiments, donor valve 16 can be configured to open only when a connector (such as inflation valve 17 or a hose) is connected, thus avoiding undesirable air loss from awning 18. Donor valve 16 can be configured as a one-way valve such that air flows into donor valve 16 in a direction away from the respective inflatable device to which it is attached.

[0116] In use, the tent 12 is inflated using a pump or compressor (not shown in FIG. 8 ), which may be integral with the tent 12. Once inflated, the tent 12 becomes a reservoir of air stored under pressure. To inflate the awning 18 (which is the primary camping structure), the interconnect valve 28 of the awning 18 is connected to the interconnect valve 29 of the tent 12 (the primary camping structure). As shown in FIG. 8 , a hose 74 is used to connect the interconnect valve 28 to the interconnect valve 29. Alternatively, the interconnect valve 29 may be directly connected to the interconnect valve 28 (preferably using an adapter) to make the connection direct and rigid, with the awning 18 being at least partially supported by the tent 12 and the interconnect valve 29. Once the tent 12 and awning 18 are connected, the interconnect valve 29 may be opened to allow pressurized air to flow from the tent inflatable element 14 to the awning inflatable element 26, thereby inflating the awning 18. The awning 18 passively inflates as pressurized air within the tent elements 14 flows into the inflatable elements 26 of the awning 18. The rate of air flowing into the awning 18 can be regulated using the control nut 36 as described above. Alternatively, the rate may simply be on / off controlled without regulating the rate. In this configuration, the awning 18 does not need to be inflated at the same time as the tent 12. An uninflated awning 18 can be connected to the tent 12 at a later time and inflation may occur thereafter.

[0117] That is, no separate pump is required to inflate the awning 18. Furthermore, at least the initial stage of inflation of the awning 18 can be accomplished much faster than if a pump (such as a hand pump or an electric pump) were used, since the tent's inflatable element 14 can hold a relatively large volume of air under pressure, and the flow rate to the awning 18 is not limited by the flow rate of a pump.

[0118] It should be noted that depending on the relative volumes of the tent inflatable element 14 and the awning 18 inflatable element 26, the awning 18 may be partially or fully inflated by the air stored in the inflatable element 14 of the tent 12. If the awning 18 (or other secondary inflatable structure) is not fully inflated by the air stored in the tent element 14, the remaining inflation may be accomplished by pumping air into the tent 12 using the air source (such as an integral pump) that inflates the tent 12, which then flows into the awning 18 by way of the interconnect valve 29. In some embodiments, the tent 12 may automatically re-inflate if the pressure in the tent inflatable element falls below a threshold pressure.

[0119] In some embodiments, the inflatable element 14 of the tent 12 has a certain degree of resilience such that a certain volume of air can be released from the tent structure 12 without significantly compromising the pressure and / or structural integrity of the tent 12. That is, the tent 12 becomes an air reservoir with a certain degree of redundancy in the sense that the entire volume of air stored in the tent 12 is not required to maintain the structure of the tent 12. Similarly, the inflatable element 26 of the awning 18 has some resilience such that the amount of air required to support the structure of the awning 18 is not the maximum amount of air that the inflatable awning 18 can contain. This arrangement means that a separate pump is not required to inflate the awning 18. Once the awning 18 is inflated, the awning 18 becomes a kind of air reservoir from which air can be used to inflate one or more of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24.

[0120] For example, the capacities or volumes of various components may be configured as follows: The main inflatable camping structure, which may include a tent, may be about 374 liters, The tents (main camping structures) can be about 356 litres, The inflatable camping attachment may consist of a sun canopy (150 liters), gazebo (150 liters) or wind brake (64 liters) or may consist of a much smaller attachment (eg a mattress or ball).

[0121] It should be noted that the limit of the amount of air that can be provided is set by the capacity of the camping assembly, which is determined by the combined capacity / volume of the main inflatable camping structure and the awning (main camping structure). This combined capacity makes it more capable than a single inflatable structure. Furthermore, for larger inflatable camping accessories, the camping assembly initially acts as an air reservoir, but for larger accessories, such as additional awnings, additional air will be required. In a preferred embodiment, no extra air is introduced into the system as the inflatable camping accessories are inflated, so the total air volume remains the same. In particular, no pump is required (or used) to introduce extra air into the system to provide air from the inflatable camping structure to the inflatable camping accessories. As described above, such a system allows for quick and easy inflation of the inflatable camping accessories without power and while maintaining the structural integrity of the inflatable camping structure.

[0122] The inflation valves 17 of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 can be connected to the donor valve 16 of the awning 18 or to the donor valve 16 of the tent 12. As mentioned above, the inflation valves 17 of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 can be connected to the donor valve 16 in the same manner as the interconnect valve 28 of the awning 18. This is useful because inflation of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 can be accomplished by connecting them to the awning 18, i.e., they do not have to be located closer to the tent 12, which would be inconvenient. As shown in FIG. 8, an extension hose 76 can be provided that can be connected to the donor valve 16, making it easier to inflate larger or smaller maneuverable inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24.

[0123] The inflation valves 17 described herein may be similar to the donor valves 16, and each inflation valve may have a connector (e.g., a quick-connect coupling or a threaded connector) configured to connect to a corresponding connector on the donor valve 16. The inflation valves 17 may be substantially the same as the donor valves 16. In some embodiments, a universal connector (e.g., a hose or rigid coupling) may be configured to connect to any donor valve and / or inflation valve in the system. That is, a user may select any connector and connect it to the donor valve and the inflation valve in any orientation without the inconvenience of verifying the alignment and / or correct orientation of the connectors. The donor valves may be structurally similar to the inflation valves, and in these embodiments, both valves may function as donor valves or inflation valves depending on whether they provide or receive air.

[0124] The above described configurations do not require a separate hand pump or air compressor, but allow the user to inflate the configuration using an already inflated configuration as the air source. Alternatively, the user may perform the initial inflation of the attachments as described above, and then use the pump or other air source to finish inflating the attachments. Using this method, the inflation speed can be significantly accelerated, since the initial stage of inflation can be performed quickly using air from the awning. In the case of a camping assembly with its own power source, a single air source in a remote or off-grid location can be used to inflate one or more attachments, without the need for an additional pump or connection to another power source. In conclusion, the present invention provides a pump module with a fully removable / replaceable charging pack, which has the ability to accommodate a wider range of ecosystem attachments. The pump module also has the ability to directly connect to and distribute power to lighting devices, personal electronic devices, etc. The pump module of the present invention has the potential to be installed in alternative locations along the entire length of the air pole (not just at the end of the air pole).

[0125] 10, 110, 210 Camping Assembly 102 Mobile Home 111 LED Lighting Strip 112 Tents (or other main inflatable camping structures) 112, 212 Inflatable camping structures 113 Cable 114 Expandable element (or expandable part) 114a first upright inflatable element 114b second upright inflatable element 115 Expandable elements for bridging, bridging elements 117a first horizontally expandable element 117b second horizontally expandable element 119 Bottom end 12 Tents and inflatable camping structures 124a First expandable part 124b Second expandable part 14, 26, 30 Inflatable elements (e.g. inflatable poles) 16, 116, 216 Donor valve 17 Inflation valve 177 First Lower End 178 Support member 18 Tent 20, 212 Gazebo 20, 22, 24 Inflatable camping accessories 214 Expandable elements 214a first upright inflatable element 214b second upright inflatable element 215 Canopy 219 Lower end 22 Windbrake 24 Auxiliary Tent 28, 29 Interconnecting valve 32 Valve body 34 Spigot 36 Control Nut 38 Wall of the expandable element 40 Inner part 42 Interior of expandable element, inner part 44 Outer part 46 Exit Route 48 Part 1 50 Annular recess 52 Part 2 54 Aperture 56 Annular protrusion 58, 60 Tapered surface 62 First sealing O-ring 64 Second sealing O-ring 66 Movable valve member 68 Chamber 70 Entrance opening 72 Exit 74 Horse 77 First end 77 First lower end of support member 78 78 Support member 79 Second end 79 Second upper end of support member 78 80 Pump Module 81, 82 Pump housing 83 Battery Housing 84 Air Pump 85 Exit opening 86 Entrance opening 87 Battery Slot 88 Batteries 89 Pump outlet, tubular outlet 90 Entrance, intake 91 Electronics Module 92 Electrical Output Connector 93 USB (universal serial bus) connector (socket) 94 Auxiliary Electrical Input Connector

Claims

1. In a camping assembly having an inflatable camping assembly as a main structure, an elongated support member extending between a first end and a second end, the elongated support member comprises inflatable means configured to inflate to provide structural support for the camping assembly, and a pump module for effecting inflation of the inflatable means; the pump module is disposed in series with the inflatable means and is located between the first end and the second end of the elongated support member; A camping assembly characterized in that the longitudinal length of the elongated support member defined between the first end and the second end is formed from the longitudinal length of the pump module together with the longitudinal length of the inflatable means in an inflatable configuration.

2. 2. A camping assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein said inflatable means comprises a single inflatable element.

3. 3. The camping assembly of claim 2, wherein the pump module extends between the first end of the elongated support member and one end of the inflatable component, and the inflatable component extends between one end of the pump module and the second end of the elongated support member.

4. 2. The camping assembly of claim 1, wherein said inflatable means comprises a first inflatable part and a second inflatable part, said pump module being located between said first inflatable part and said second inflatable part.

5. 5. The camping assembly of claim 4, wherein the first inflatable element extends between the first end of the elongated support member and the first end of the pump module, and the second inflatable element extends between the second end of the pump module and the second end of the elongated support member.

6. 4. A camping assembly as described in claim 2 or claim 3, wherein one end of the pump module is at the interface such that the pump module extends between the first end of the elongated support member and the interface, and the inflatable part is at the interface such that the pump module extends between the interface and the second end of the elongated support member.

7. 6. A camping assembly as described in claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the pump module is positioned between the first inflatable part and the second inflatable part so that one end of the pump module forms a first interface with one end of the first inflatable part and a second interface with one end of the second inflatable part, the first inflatable part extending between the first end of the elongated support member and the first interface, and the second inflatable part extending between the second interface and the second end of the elongated support member.

8. 6. A camping assembly according to claim 4 or 5, wherein said pump module is adjacent to said one or each inflatable element and forms said elongate support member.

9. 6. A camping assembly as claimed in claim 4 or 5, wherein the pump module is arranged in series with the inflatable parts so that the pump module extends along a longitudinal axis and the or each inflatable part also extends along the same longitudinal axis.

10. A camping assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the pump module is embedded in the elongated support member.

11. A camping assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the pump module is integral with the inflatable element and forms the elongated support member.

12. A camping assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the longitudinal length of the elongated support member is the longitudinal length of the pump module plus the longitudinal length of the inflatable element.

13. 6. A camping assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the elongated support members of air poles form the main camping structure assembly, the main camping structure assembly comprising an inflatable netting of air poles and a canopy, and the main camping structure assembly comprises one of an awning or gazebo.

14. A camping assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the elongated support member is an upright support member and the pump module is located at the lower end of the elongated support member.

15. 2. The camping assembly of claim 1, wherein said pump module provides structural support for said inflatable means.

16. A camping assembly as described in any one of claims 1 to 5 and 15, wherein the elongated support member is a first elongated support member consisting of a pair of elongated support members, and the length of the inflatable means of this first elongated support member is set to be less than the length of the inflatable means of the second elongated support member so as to match the height of the pump module.

17. A camping assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5 and 15, wherein the inflatable means is generally cylindrical and the pump module has a generally cylindrical housing configured to be coaxial with the axis of the inflatable means.

18. A camping assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5 and 15, wherein the elongated support member comprises a sleeve, the inflatable means comprises a bladder, the bladder being located within the sleeve, and the pump module being at least partially located within the sleeve.

19. 19. A camping assembly as described in claim 18, wherein the sleeve holds the pump module together with the inflatable means, such that the pump module remains secured to the inflatable means whether the inflatable means is in an inflated or deflated configuration.

20. A camping assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5 and 15, wherein the inflatable means that forms the main structure for camping is the inflatable assembly, in a storage configuration in which the pump module is secured to the inflatable means.

21. A camping assembly as described in any one of claims 1 to 5 and 15, wherein the pump module has a removable battery and a battery receiver with a slot, the battery receiver configured to receive the battery in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the housing of the pump module.

22. 16. A camping assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and 15, wherein the pump module has at least one auxiliary power connector configured to distribute power to an auxiliary device.

23. 16. A camping assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and 15, wherein the pump module has one or more USB connectors for charging accessories.

24. The camping assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and 15, wherein the camping assembly comprises a lighting device having one or more LED strips, the lighting device being mounted on the inflatable camping assembly and powered by the power supply of the pump module.

25. 1. A method of constructing an elongated support member for a camping assembly, comprising: The camping assembly includes an inflatable camping assembly as a main structure, the elongated support member extending between a first end and a second end, the elongated support member comprises inflatable means configured to inflate to provide structural support for the camping assembly, and a pump module for effecting inflation of the inflatable means; the pump module is disposed in series with the inflatable means and is located between the first end and the second end of the elongated support member; a longitudinal length of the elongate support member defined between the first end and the second end is formed from a longitudinal length of the pump module together with a longitudinal length of the inflatable means in an inflatable configuration; a pump module configured to inflate said inflatable means;

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