Camping Accessories Inflation System

Abstract

The invention provides a camping assembly (10) with an awning (18) that is releasably fastened to the side of a caravan. However, in other embodiments, the awning (18) can be releasably fastened to the side of a tent / trailer tent / foldaway camper. The awning comprises a canopy and a network of inflatable air poles (26). The awning can be inflated by air delivered by a removable or buried pump, or by air delivered from another inflatable camping structure. The awning comprises a donor valve (16) that is adapted to deliver a volume of air from the air poles to the camping accessories (20, 22, 24) so ​​that the camping accessories can be inflated very quickly and without significant impact on the structural integrity of the awning when vented. This allows for easy availability and access to the air source.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a system of inflatable camping accessories / devices and a method of providing a camping accessory as an inflation system, and more particularly to a camping assembly that provides an internal sheltered area, and a method of inflating the camping assembly. [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 prone to damage during assembly or use, for example, by impact or strong winds. To address these issues, such structures may be constructed with inflatable components, and the structure may be assembled by inflating the inflatable components using a source of compressed air, such as a pump. In this way, fewer components may be required to be assembled.

[0003] The use of inflatable components also presents problems, requiring the user to bring a pump or other compressed air source to the camping site. For larger inflatable structures (such as inflatable tents for home use), a hand 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] A camping assembly according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: An inflatable camping structure having a lattice configuration of inflatable air poles and a donor valve on the air pole for releasing air from the inflatable camping structure; The donor valve connects to an inflation valve on an inflatable camping accessory to inflate the inflatable camping accessory with air from the inflatable camping structure.

[0006] It is preferred that the inflatable camping structure is in a (fully) inflated configuration and the inflatable camping accessory is in a (fully) deflated configuration, and that inflation of the inflatable camping accessory is effected solely with the air contained within the inflatable camping accessory without introducing additional air into the inflatable camping structure, for example from a pump, via an inflation valve of the inflatable camping structure.

[0007] The camping assembly may include a canopy.

[0008] The camping assembly may include a main camping structure defining an interior shelter area.

[0009] The camping assembly (and / or the main camping structure) may also comprise an awning, and the camping assembly (and / or the main camping structure) may comprise one of an awning, a tent, a trailer tent, and a gazebo.

[0010] The camping assembly may comprise a main main camping structure and a main first camping structure, which may comprise one of a caravan, a tent and a trailer tent. The camping assembly preferably comprises a main camping structure comprising an awning as well as a main first camping structure, which may comprise one of a caravan, a tent and a trailer tent.

[0011] Awnings are an important camping structure and can be easily attached.

[0012] The main camping structure (awning) includes a first inflatable camping structure having a first interconnect valve, and the main camping structure (awning) may include a second interconnect valve that provides an air path between the main first inflatable camping structure and the main camping structure (awning).

[0013] Preferably, one of the main part, the first inflatable camping structure, and the main camping structure (awning) is configured to inflate the other of the main part, the first inflatable camping structure, and the main camping structure (awning).

[0014] The primary camping structure may include a grid of inflatable poles and may include a canopy. The primary camping structure may include a folding camper tent with a trailer, an inflatable pole of the poles and may include a canopy. The trailer may include a pump, preferably an electric pump.

[0015] The main main camping structure, preferably an awning, may also comprise a canopy as well as inflatable poles for the air poles.

[0016] The primary camping structure may have multiple donor valves, and the main camping structure (tent) may also have multiple donor valves.

[0017] The inflatable camping accessories may comprise one of a gazebo, a wind break, an extra tent, an inflatable paddle pool, a canopy, an inflatable ball, an inflatable mattress, and / or an inflatable seat (such as a chair or sofa).

[0018] The first and second interconnecting valves define an air pathway within which a control member may be disposed that is movable between an open position and a closed position to selectively allow or block air flow between the primary camping structure and the main camping structure (awning), and the control member may also be manually movable between the open and closed positions.

[0019] The first main inflatable camping structure becomes a reservoir of stored air when inflated, so that when the main camping structure (awning) is connected to the first main inflatable camping structure, the main camping structure (awning) is at least partially inflated by the air stored in the first main inflatable camping structure.

[0020] The primary camping structure (awning) can be substantially fully inflated with air stored in the primary first inflatable camping structure alone, and the primary camping structure (awning) can be partially inflated with air stored in the primary first inflatable camping structure.

[0021] The primary inflatable camping structure may comprise an inflatable support structure and may comprise a tent, an awning, or a gazebo. The primary inflatable camping structure may also be a shelter and may comprise an inflatable camper tent or awning, or may comprise a camper trailer tent.

[0022] The camping assembly may include an inflatable camping accessory, and may include a plurality of inflatable camping accessories, and if such accessories are present, each inflatable camping accessory may include an inflation valve configured to connect to a donor valve to inflate the inflatable camping accessory.

[0023] Inflatable camping accessories may include gazebos, wind brakes, auxiliary tents, inflatable paddle pools, inflatable balls, inflatable mattresses and / or inflatable seats (such as chairs or sofas).

[0024] The primary inflatable camping structure may have multiple donor valves and the main camping structure (awning) may also have multiple donor valves, allowing easy access to the donor valves for users in different locations.

[0025] Each donor valve may be a one-way valve.

[0026] Each donor valve may be a pressure relief valve that may be configured to maintain a minimum pressure within the inflatable camping structure such that if the minimum pressure is exceeded, the pressure relief valve allows air to be transferred from the inflatable camping structure to the inflatable camping accessory.

[0027] The main camping structure (tent) may have multiple donor bubbles.

[0028] Each donor valve is adjustable and may include a control valve that regulates the air flow through that donor valve.

[0029] The camping assembly may include a source of pressurized air configured to inflate the main camping structure (awning) and / or the primary inflatable camping structure. The source of pressurized air may be a compressed air source such as a compressor, a pump, or a compressed air canister. The camping assembly may include a single compressed air source (only).

[0030] The primary inflatable camping structure may include an air source. For example, the primary inflatable camping structure may include a pump. The pump may be integral with the primary inflatable camping structure.

[0031] Each inflation valve may be connected to a donor valve by a connector or an adapter. Each inflation valve may be (pneumatically) connected to a donor valve by a connection means. The connection means may comprise a threaded connection. The connection means may be a flexible connector, such as a hose. Each inflation valve may be directly connected to a donor valve or may be rigidly connected. An adapter may provide a rigid connection.

[0032] 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 may be the volume of the main camping structure (awning) and may also be the volume of the primary first inflatable camping structure. The first inflatable volume may be the inflatable volume of the main camping structure (awning) and may also be the inflatable volume of the primary first camping structure. The second inflatable volume may be the volume of each inflatable camping accessory. The initial total volume may be (substantially) equal to the final total volume, and no extra air needs to be introduced. For example, no pump or other inflation means may be used to introduce extra air.

[0033] 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, and in some cases 5:1 or greater. In some embodiments, the ratio may be 10:1 or greater.

[0034] The inflatable volume of each inflatable camping accessory is preferably less than the inflatable volume of the primary camping structure (awning) and / or primary first 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 primary camping structure (awning) and / or primary first inflatable camping structure.

[0035] The inflatable volume of the main camping structure (awning) is preferably less than the inflatable volume of the main first inflatable camping structure. The inflatable volume of the main camping structure (awning) may be less than 50% of the inflatable volume of the main first inflatable camping structure.

[0036] A second aspect of the invention relates to a method of inflating an inflatable camping accessory with air from a camping assembly, comprising: The camping assembly includes an inflatable camping structure having a lattice of inflatable air poles and a donor valve on the air poles for releasing air from the inflatable camping structure; the donor valve is adapted to connect to an inflation valve of an inflatable camping accessory to inflate the inflatable camping accessory with air from the inflatable camping structure; An inflation method in which an inflation valve of an inflatable camping accessory is connected to a donor valve of a camping assembly and air is released from the camping assembly.

[0037] With the inflatable camping structure in a (fully) inflated configuration and the inflatable camping accessory in a (fully) deflated configuration, the method preferably involves inflating the inflatable camping accessory solely with the air contained within the inflatable camping accessory without adding additional air to the inflatable camping structure, for example from a pump via an inflation valve on the inflatable camping structure.

[0038] The method uses a pressure relief valve to regulate the supply of air from the inflatable camping structure to the inflatable camping accessories and maintains the pressure within the inflatable camping structure above a predetermined minimum required to maintain the structural integrity of the inflatable camping structure, thus preventing the collapse of the inflatable camping structure due to the air supply to the inflatable camping assembly.

[0039] The camping assembly may define an interior shelter area and may include a canopy.

[0040] The camping assembly includes a first main inflatable camping structure having a primary donor valve configured to release air from the first main inflatable camping structure, and a main (secondary) inflatable camping structure having an inflation valve for inflating the main (secondary) inflatable camping structure, the inflation valve being connected to the primary donor valve to inflate the main (secondary) inflatable camping structure with air from the first main inflatable camping structure; the camping assembly having a secondary donor valve for releasing air from the assembly; Preferably, an inflation valve on the inflatable camping accessory is connected to a secondary donor valve on the camping assembly for releasing air from the camping assembly.

[0041] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a camping assembly having an interior shelter area, the camping assembly comprising: a first main inflatable camping structure having a primary donor valve configured to release air from the first main inflatable camping structure; and a secondary inflatable camping structure having an inflation valve for inflating the secondary inflatable camping structure, the inflation valve being connected to a primary donor valve for inflating the main (secondary) inflatable camping structure with air from the primary, first inflatable camping structure; the camping assembly having a secondary donor valve for releasing air from the camping assembly; and The secondary donor valve connects to an inflation valve on an inflatable camping assembly to allow air from the camping assembly to inflate the inflatable camping accessory.

[0042] Yet another aspect of the invention relates to a method of inflating an inflatable camping structure with air from a camping assembly, the camping assembly defining an interior shelter area and having a first inflatable camping structure having a primary donor valve configured to release air from a primary, first inflatable camping structure, and a secondary inflatable camping structure having an inflation valve for inflating the secondary inflatable camping structure; the inflation valve is connected to the primary donor valve for inflating a secondary inflatable camping structure with air from a primary, first inflatable camping structure; the camping assembly having a secondary donor valve for releasing air from the camping assembly; A method for connecting an inflation valve of an inflatable camping accessory to a secondary donor valve of a camping assembly and releasing air from the camping assembly.

[0043] Yet another aspect of the present invention relates to a system for an inflatable camping device, comprising: a primary inflatable device having a primary donor valve configured to release air from the primary inflatable device; and at least one secondary inflatable device having an inflation valve for inflating the secondary inflatable device and a secondary donor valve for releasing air from the secondary inflatable device; an inflation valve of a secondary inflatable device connected to the primary donor valve for inflating the secondary inflatable device with air from the primary inflatable device; and A secondary donor valve is adapted to connect to an inflation valve of an inflatable device to inflate the inflatable device.

[0044] Yet another aspect of the present invention relates to a camping assembly defining an interior shelter area, comprising: The camping assembly comprises: a first main inflatable camping structure having a primary donor valve configured to release air from the first main inflatable camping structure; The secondary inflatable camping structure has an inflation valve for inflating the secondary inflatable camping structure, the inflation valve being connected to the primary donor valve for inflating the secondary inflatable camping structure with air from the primary inflatable camping structure.

[0045] The primary camping structure may be one of a caravan, a tent or a trailer tent.

[0046] The camping assembly may have a main camping structure that defines an interior shelter area, and the camping assembly may have a second camping structure that provides the primary shelter. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0047] 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 schematic diagram showing a camping assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve according to the present invention. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve according to the present invention. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A is a cutaway perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve in accordance with the present invention. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a cutaway perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve in accordance with the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a donor valve according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0048] The present invention provides a camping assembly 10 having a primary inflatable camping structure (a folding trailer tent 12), a primary (or secondary) inflatable camping structure (awning 18) and inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24. In particular, the present invention provides an inflatable camping device system.

[0049] As used herein, the term "camping assembly" is defined to include camping and / or caravanning equipment and gear. In particular, a camping assembly may comprise a caravan, a tent and / or a trailer tent, or a combination thereof.

[0050] 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 is connected to an inflation valve that can be connected to inflate other inflatable devices of the inflatable devices. The inflatable devices can be pneumatically connected to each other, i.e., the interconnection of the devices allows one or more devices to be inflated using air from another device already inflated. An advantage of this configuration is that only a single source of pressurized air (e.g., a pump) is required, which may be integral with one of the inflatable devices or may be 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 first 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. In this case, the main inflatable camping structure or awning (main camping structure) can be used in a similar manner to inflate the inflatable camping accessories. The inflatable device may have an inflatable element such as an air pole. As mentioned above, in this embodiment the awning is the main camping structure and the associated tent / trailer tent (or caravan) would be the main camping structure.

[0051] 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 inflation of the inflatable camping accessory is achieved solely with the air present within 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 on the inflatable camping structure.

[0052] In a first preferred embodiment, the camping assembly 10 includes an awning 18 that is removably fastened to the side of a caravan. However, in other embodiments, the awning 18 can be removably fastened to the side of a tent, a trailer tent, or a folding camper. The awning 18 includes a canopy and a support that is configured as a grid 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 accessories 20, 22, 24 by providing a volume of air from the air poles 26 to the camping accessories 20, 22, 24. This means that inflation of the camping accessories can be accomplished very quickly and the removal of air does not significantly impact the structural stability of the awning 18. This provides an easy access and availability of an air source, which is advantageous when camping. This is because power supply to electric pumps is unstable and subject to limitations. Additionally, it reduces the equipment and materials required. This air source can be replenished on an ad-hoc basis and as needed.

[0053] 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. The awning 18 and the inflatable camping structure 12 are further connected by interconnecting valves 28, 29 to allow air to be supplied between the awning 18 and the inflatable camping structure 12.

[0054] In another preferred embodiment, the camping assembly includes an awning 18 (main camping structure), and the main inflatable camping structure includes a folding camper located within the trailer. The folding camper includes a lattice support of inflatable poles that supports the canopy and creates an interior shelter area. The trailer provides a solid floor, which may be elevated above the ground. The awning 18 also includes a support of inflatable poles that supports the canopy and creates an interior shelter area. Finally, the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 are generally small (low volume) devices / equipment / equipment, such as gazebos, wind brakes, auxiliary tents, inflatable paddle pools, canopies, inflatable balls, inflatable mattresses and / or inflatable seats (chairs or sofas), to name a few.

[0055] FIG. 1 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 first inflatable camping structure, an awning (main camping structure), and a plurality of inflatable accessories. In this embodiment, the main camping structure includes a tent 12. The tent 12 includes inflatable elements 14 (air poles), which provide a grid support or inflatable framework 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.

[0056] When inflated, the primary inflatable camping structure provides a reservoir of air under pressure that can be used to inflate the awning 18 (the primary camping structure). The primary inflatable camping structure can have a source of pressurized air (not shown in FIG. 1). In particular, the primary inflatable camping structure can include a pump or compressor that can be integrated with the inflatable camping structure. In some embodiments, the primary inflatable camping structure can include a pump module (e.g., as described below) that is connected to or integrated with an inflatable element of the primary inflatable camping structure.

[0057] 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 freestanding tent or trailer tent, improving the use of space and weight distribution within the tent or trailer. It is convenient to distribute power to the air source through the trailer or tent power source.

[0058] The primary inflatable camping structure and the awning 18 may each have at least one initial primary donor valve 16. As can be seen from FIG. 1, 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, expanding support structure with one or more upright supports or legs, the donor valve 16 may be located 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, provided that, for example, the air source can be reliably hidden and / or the noise from the air source can be reliably suppressed.

[0059] Each donor valve 16 is adapted to connect to one of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 to inflate the inflatable camping accessory with air from the awning 18, or optionally the primary inflatable camping structure 12. In this embodiment, each donor valve 16 is manually adjustable to control the airflow through the donor valve 16. The airflow through the donor valve 16 can be controlled by turning a switch on and off to control the airflow rate.

[0060] 1, in this embodiment, an awning 18 is used, and the inflatable camping accessories include 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 (in addition to or instead of) include 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) can be used as an inflatable camping accessory.

[0061] The awning 18 has at least one interconnect (inflation) valve 28 for inflating 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 for releasing air from the awning 18.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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 assemblies 20, 22, 24. In this embodiment, the donor valve 16 is the same as the interconnecting valves 28, 29.

[0064] 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.

[0065] Donor valve 16 (which in this embodiment is the same as interconnecting valves 28, 29) is as shown in Figures 2-4. Donor valve 16 is shown in a closed configuration in Figures 2A, 3A and 4. Donor valve 16 is shown in an open configuration in Figures 2B and 3B.

[0066] The donor valve 16 has 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 adapted to connect to an awning or inflatable camping accessory, as described below.

[0067] 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 3A and 3B, 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 in 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.

[0068] 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 air flow through the donor valve 16.

[0069] 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.

[0070] A generally annular projection 56 of the control nut 36 extends toward the interior 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.

[0071] 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 sealing O-ring 62 is located between the first portion 48 and the second portion 52 of the exit passage 46. In this configuration, as the annular projection 56 moves into and out of engagement with the annular recess 50, the exit passage 46 gradually opens and closes as the tapered surfaces 58, 60 move toward and away from one another.

[0072] 2B and 3B, when the control nut 36 is moved away from the valve body 32, the outlet passage 48 opens and allows air to flow from the inside of the valve body to the spigot, thus controlling the amount of air flowing to the donor valve 16.

[0073] The second sealing O-ring 64 is located between the radially outer surface of the annular projection 56 and the tubular recess 50, preventing 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 the second sealing O-ring 64 is located between them, preventing air from flowing. That is, air can only flow to the valve via the spigot 34, thus preventing air from flowing out to the environment when the donor valve 16 is open and connected to an inflation valve or hose.

[0074] 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. It is noted 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.

[0075] The donor valve 16 also includes a pressure relief mechanism. The pressure relief mechanism is shown in a closed configuration in Figures 2A, 2B, and 3B, and in an open configuration in Figures 3A and 4. 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 inflatable 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 internal air pressure of the inflatable element reaches a threshold value, the valve member 66 is moved away from the inlet opening 70 by the air pressure (against the biasing force of the spring), opening 70 opens, and air flows into the chamber 68 and out of the spigot 34. That is, there is less risk of damage to the inflatable element due to excessive high pressure.

[0076] 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 accessory connected to the donor valve of the main camping structure. In this configuration, air does not easily transfer from the main camping structure to the camping accessory. However, if the pressure within 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 accessory. Depending on the situation, air only needs to be transferred from the camping structure if it does not reduce the pressure within the camping structure below a specific value. This prevents the main camping 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 accessory during hot weather, for example, and that may be unnecessarily transmitted from the camping accessory to the atmosphere.

[0077] 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 of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 is inflated with air from the awning 18 by connecting the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 to a donor valve 16 of the awning 18.

[0078] Each of the inflation valves 17 of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 can be advantageously connected to the donor valve 16 using a connector or adapter. In this embodiment, the connector has a flexible connector as a hose 74. The connector has a connection means configured 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 have corresponding parts of a "quick connect" coupling. In other embodiments, the valves and the hose can be connected by a screw fitting or screw-on connection arrangement. That is, the use of an interconnecting hose allows the inflatable devices to be quickly and conveniently connected. The connection means can be configured so that the connector (e.g., hose) can be used in either orientation since the connector has the same parts at opposite ends. In the case of a hose, it may have a pressure relief valve (e.g., an in-line bleed valve) to prevent over-inflation during inflation and damage to the accessories 20, 22, 24. It should be noted that with the camping assembly 10 of the present invention, 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, since the device to be inflated does not need to be directly connected to the pump. In some embodiments, a rigid adapter or connector can be used in place of the hose.

[0079] 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 arrangement 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 arrangements allow for quick and convenient connection of the donor valve 16 and the inflation valve 17. These direct (valve-to-valve) connections allow the accessories 20, 22, 24 to be connected to the awning 18 (or the primary 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, so that the inflation valve 17 can be supported by the donor valve 16.

[0080] 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.

[0081] In use, the tent 12 is inflated using a pump or compressor (not shown in FIG. 1), 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 (the primary camping structure), the interconnecting valve 28 of the awning 18 is connected to the interconnecting valve 29 of the tent 12 (the primary camping structure). As shown in FIG. 1, a hose 74 is used to connect the interconnecting valve 28 to the interconnecting valve 29. Alternatively, the interconnecting valve 29 may be directly connected to the interconnecting valve 28 (preferably using an adapter) to provide a direct and rigid connection, with the awning 18 being at least partially supported by the tent 12 and the interconnecting valve 29. Once the tent 12 and awning 18 are connected, the interconnecting 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 the pressurized air in 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 may be connected to the tent 12 at a later time and inflation may occur thereafter.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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 with air stored in the inflatable element 14 of the tent 12. If the awning 18 (or other secondary inflatable structure) is not fully inflated with 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 via the interconnecting 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.

[0084] In some embodiments, the inflatable element 14 of the tent 12 has a degree of resilience that allows a volume of air to 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 acts as a redundant air reservoir in the sense that the entire volume of air stored in the tent 12 is not needed 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 needed 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 needed 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.

[0085] For example, the capacities or volumes of the various elements may be configured as follows: The first inflatable camping structure, which is the main part and may include a tent, may be about 374 liters; The tents (main camping structures) can be about 356 litres, Inflatable camping accessories may consist of a sun canopy (150 liters), gazebo (150 liters) or wind brake (64 liters) or may consist of much smaller accessories (such as mattresses or balls).

[0086] 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 primary inflatable camping structure and the awning (main 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 electrical distribution and while maintaining the structural integrity of the inflatable camping structure.

[0087] 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 noted 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. Advantageously, inflation of the inflatable camping accessories 20, 22, 24 can be accomplished by connecting to the awning 18, i.e., the accessories do not have to be located closer to the tent 12, which would be inconvenient. As shown in FIG. 1, 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.

[0088] 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 inflation valve in any orientation without the inconvenience of verifying the compatibility and correct orientation of the connectors. The donor valves may be structurally the same as the inflation valves, and in these embodiments, both valves may function as donor valves or inflation valves depending on whether they are providing or receiving air.

[0089] The above described configurations allow a user to inflate the configuration using an already inflated configuration as an air source, rather than requiring a separate hand pump or air compressor. Alternatively, a user may perform an initial inflation of the accessories as described above, and then use a pump or other air source to finish inflating the accessories. Using this method, the inflation speed can be significantly accelerated, as the initial stage of inflation can be accomplished quickly using air from the awning. If the camping assembly is a pump with its own power source, a single air source in a remote or off-grid location can be used to inflate one or more accessories, without the need for an additional pump or connection to another power source. [Explanation of symbols]

[0090] 10 Camping Assembly 12 Inflatable camping structures, tents 14 Inflatable elements (air poles), tent elements 16 Donor valve, primary donor valve 17 Inflation valve 18 Tent 20 Gazebo 20, 22, 24 Camping accessories, inflatable camping assemblies, inflatable devices 22 Windbrake 24 Auxiliary Tent 26 Air pole, inflatable element 26, 30 Inflatable elements 29 Interconnecting valve 28, 32 Valve body 34 Spigot 36 Control Nut 38 Inflatable element wall 40 inner portion, inner portion of the valve body 32 42 Interior of inflatable element, inner part 44 opposing outer portion, outer portion, outer portion of valve body 32 46 Exit Route 48 Part 1 50 Annular recess, annular recess 52 Part 2 54 Aperture 56 Annular protrusion, Annular protrusion 58, 60 Tapered surface 60 Tapered Surface 62 First sealing O-ring 64 Second sealing O-ring 66 Valve parts 68 Chamber 70 Entrance opening, opening 72 Exit

Claims

1. an inflatable camping structure having a lattice of inflatable air poles, the air poles having donor valves for releasing air from the inflatable camping structure; The donor valve connects to an inflation valve of an inflatable camping accessory to inflate the inflatable camping accessory with air from the inflatable camping structure.

2. 2. The camping assembly of claim 1, wherein the inflatable camping structure is an inflatable structure and the inflatable camping accessory is a deflated structure, and inflation of the inflatable camping accessory is achieved solely with the air contained within the inflatable camping accessory, without introducing additional air into the inflatable camping structure.

3. 3. A camping assembly as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the camping assembly comprises a main camping structure and a first camping structure, the main camping structure to which the first camping structure is removably attached.

4. 4. The camping assembly of claim 3, wherein said primary camping structure comprises an awning and said first camping structure comprises one of a caravan, a tent, and a trailer tent.

5. 5. The camping assembly of claim 4, wherein the first camping structure comprises a first inflatable camping structure having a first interconnect valve, and the awning comprises a second interconnect valve forming an air path between the first inflatable camping structure and the awning.

6. 6. The camping assembly of claim 5, wherein one of said first inflatable camping structure and said awning is adapted to inflate the other of them.

7. 7. A camping assembly as claimed in claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the first and second interconnecting valves define an air passageway having a control member therein, the control member being movable between an open position and a closed position to selectively permit or prevent air flow between the first camping structure and the awning.

8. 8. A camping assembly as claimed in claim 7, wherein said control member is manually movable between said open position and said closed position.

9. A camping assembly as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the first inflatable structure has a plurality of donor valves.

10. A camping assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the camping assembly comprises a plurality of donor valves.

11. 11. The camping assembly of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the camping assembly comprises an inflatable camping accessory, the inflatable camping accessory comprising one of a gazebo, a wind brake, an auxiliary tent, an inflatable paddle pool, a canopy, an inflatable ball, an inflatable mattress and / or an inflatable seat.

12. A camping assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the donor valve comprises a one-way valve.

13. A camping assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the donor valve comprises a pressure relief valve.

14. A camping assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the donor valve is adjustable and has a control valve configured to regulate the flow of air through the donor valve.

15. A camping assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the camping assembly comprises a source of pressurised air configured to inflate the first camping structure.

16. A camping assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the source of pressurised air comprises a pump.

17. A camping assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the inflation valve is connected to the donor valve by a connector.

18. A camping assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the inflation valve is pneumatically connected to the donor valve by a connection means, the connection means comprising a quick connect coupling.

19. 20. The camping assembly of claim 18, wherein said connection means comprises a flexible connector with a hose.

20. 20. The camping assembly of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the camping assembly has a first inflatable volume and a second inflatable volume, the first inflatable volume being an inflatable volume of the first camping structure and the second inflatable volume being an inflatable volume of the inflatable camping accessory, and wherein a ratio of the first inflatable volume to the second inflatable volume is 4:1 or greater.

21. 21. A camping assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the inflatable camping accessory has an inflatable volume that is less than 50% of the inflatable volume of the first camping structure.

22. 1. A method for inflating an inflatable camping accessory with air from a camping assembly, comprising: the camping assembly includes an inflatable camping structure having a lattice arrangement of inflatable air poles and a donor valve on the air poles for releasing air from the inflatable camping structure; the donor valve is adapted to connect to an inflation valve of an inflatable camping accessory to inflate the inflatable camping accessory with air from the inflatable camping structure; connecting an inflation valve of the inflatable camping accessory to the donor valve of the camping assembly; and releasing air from said camping assembly.

23. The camping assembly comprises: a first inflatable camping structure having a primary donor valve configured to release air from the first inflatable camping structure, and a main inflatable camping structure having an inflation valve for inflating the main inflatable camping structure, the inflation valve being configured to connect to the primary donor valve to inflate the main inflatable camping structure with air from the first inflatable camping structure; 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the camping assembly includes a secondary donor valve for releasing air from the assembly. connecting an inflation valve of the inflatable camping accessory to a secondary donor valve of the camping assembly; 23. The method of claim 22, further comprising releasing air from the camping assembly.

24. 24. The method of claim 22 or 23, wherein the inflatable camping structure is in an inflated configuration and the inflatable camping accessory is in a deflated configuration, and inflation of the inflatable camping accessory is achieved solely with the air contained within the inflatable camping accessory without introducing additional air into the inflatable camping structure.

25. 25. The method of any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein the camping assembly has a first inflatable volume and a second inflatable volume, the first inflatable volume being an inflatable volume of the inflatable camping structure and the second inflatable volume being an inflatable volume of the inflatable camping accessory, and the ratio of the first inflatable volume to the second inflatable volume is 4:1 or greater.

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