Convertible Camping Trailer

Abstract

By reusing existing used cars, we offer convertible camping trailers that are affordable and boast excellent body design performance in areas such as compactness, lightness, drivability, exterior design, versatility, robustness, waterproofing, sound insulation, durability, weather resistance, safety, and convenience. [Solution] In a trailer cabin 11 having an opening 13 formed by removing the functions and devices necessary for self-propulsion, leaving the rear tires of a hatchback-type used car, and removing the front windshield, bonnet, headlamp, and part of the front grille, a front panel 15 covering the headlamp and part of the front grille is attached to the front of the trailer cabin, a rooftop cover 12 covering the entire opening is attached above the opening, tire house covers 17 covering the entire front tire house are attached to both sides, and a towing device 19 and a ground fixing device 20 are provided at the front lower part.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a convertible camping trailer that realizes cost reduction by using an existing used car and has excellent vehicle body design performance such as compactness, light weight, driving performance, exterior design, diversity, robustness, waterproofness, sound insulation, durability, weather resistance, safety, convenience, and availability of repair parts.

Background Art

[0002] Conventional camping trailers are subject to the operating condition restriction that passengers cannot ride during driving, and their characteristic structure is simply that "a towing vehicle and a trailer are connected by a coupler". That is, if the towing vehicle and the trailer are separated, the private car (towing vehicle) alone can move freely and independently anywhere. Therefore, unlike conventional self-propelled large camping trailers, it is more maneuverable, making it easier to sightsee and shop locally. This greatly enhances the freedom and enjoyment of travel. Moreover, the shape and arrangement of the seats inside the trailer can be freely laid out, and furthermore, the user's preferences can be variously reflected in the size of the vehicle body and the interior specifications. Therefore, its demand as one of the means of transportation for drive-and-stay trips has been increasing year by year.

[0003] In response to such diverse user preferences, a variety of camping cars have been developed. For example, a "box for camping cars and camping cars" (Patent Document - 1) has been proposed, which can greatly expand the storage space and has excellent heat insulation properties.

[0004] However, the proposed "camping car box and camping car" involves mounting a camping car box on an existing vehicle to significantly expand the storage space. This limits the base vehicle to a cargo vehicle, and it is unsuitable for long drives in terms of ride comfort. Furthermore, since the camping car box itself is custom-made, the vehicle purchase price increases significantly. In addition, to create a camper specification with enough length for adults to sleep inside, it would require installing it on a larger camping car that is even taller in the height direction.

[0005] Furthermore, a "campervan" (Patent Document 2) has been proposed in which a cabin equipped with casters can be slid into and out of the rear cargo area of ​​the campervan for storage.

[0006] However, this proposed "campervan" had several problems: the cabin had to be smaller than the storage space in the campervan because it involved storing the cabin in the rear cargo area, and the vehicle manufacturing and purchase prices would be high because both the campervan and the cabin would be custom-made.

[0007] Furthermore, a "campervan conversion kit and conversion method using this kit" (Patent Document-3) has been proposed, which allows for the expansion of the living space created by converting a privately owned vehicle into a campervan as much as possible.

[0008] However, the proposed "campervan conversion kit and conversion method using this kit" had several problems. Because the conversion kit is attached to the cargo area behind the driver's seat of the base vehicle, the cabin itself had to be smaller than the storage space of the campervan, which tended to make the living space cramped and insufficient sleeping space available. In addition, because the cabin had to be custom-made, the vehicle manufacturing cost and vehicle purchase cost would increase significantly.

[0009] Furthermore, conventional proposals for camping trailers include, for example, a towed vehicle that can provide on-site service at a desired location and provide business opportunities to people who are hindered by a lack of startup capital, and a "...towing vehicle or method of providing services to a towing vehicle" (Patent Document-4) that can provide services together with the towed vehicle.

[0010] However, the proposed "...towing vehicle or method of providing services to a towing vehicle" was a proposal concerning the internal layout structure of the towed vehicle, and therefore did not have any particularly significant structural features compared to conventional camping trailers.

[0011] Traditional methods of manufacturing campervans and camping trailers primarily rely on handmade production, where each vehicle is finished by hand. This results in problems such as high vehicle prices, long lead times, difficulty in procuring repair parts, long repair periods, and high repair costs. Furthermore, compared to existing used cars, they lack compactness, lightness, drivability, exterior design, versatility, robustness, waterproofing, soundproofing, durability, weather resistance, safety, and convenience. Furthermore, conventional campervans and camping trailers tend to be large vehicles equipped with sleeping beds, sofas, camping equipment, kitchens, toilets / showers, and recreational equipment, allowing people to walk around inside. As a result, they have been expensive to purchase, difficult to drive due to their size, and require large parking spaces. These factors, combined with Japan's unique road and housing conditions, have prevented them from becoming widely popular.

[0012] In light of the above-mentioned problems, the applicant conceived the idea of ​​providing a convertible camping trailer that is affordable, compact, and easy to drive, compared to the conventional, widely available, large, and luxuriously equipped, high-priced camping trailers. By utilizing existing used cars, the applicant achieved a lower price while developing a convertible camping trailer that excels in vehicle design performance, including compactness, lightness, drivability, exterior design, versatility, robustness, waterproofing, sound insulation, durability, weather resistance, safety, convenience, and availability of repair parts. This led to the proposal of the "convertible camping trailer" in the present invention. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0013] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2010-105432 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2000-52845 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2019-34649 [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2002-225756 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0014] This invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a convertible camping trailer that achieves lower costs by utilizing existing used cars, while also possessing excellent body design performance such as compactness, lightness, drivability, exterior design, versatility, robustness, waterproofing, sound insulation, durability, weather resistance, safety, convenience, and availability of repair parts. [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] The convertible camping trailer in the present invention is a trailer cabin having an opening formed by removing the functions and devices necessary for self-propulsion from a hatchback-type used car, leaving the rear tires intact, and removing a portion of the front windshield, bonnet, headlights, and front grille. The trailer cabin is fitted with a front panel that covers a portion of the headlights and front grille at the front, a rooftop cover that covers the entire opening is detachably fitted above the opening, wheelhouse covers that cover the entire front wheelhouses are fitted on both sides, and a towing device and ground fixing device are provided at the front lower part.

[0016] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer in the present invention employs a method in which the rooftop cover is formed from any of the following materials: canvas or leather fabric having a gusset, or canvas or leather fabric and a reinforcing member, or a hardtop member.

[0017] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer in the present invention employs a means of providing a storage box on the side of the front wheel well of the trailer cabin, with the wheel well cover serving as an opening and closing lid.

[0018] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer in the present invention employs a means of detachably providing a deck roof bar at the upper end of the opening of the trailer cabin.

[0019] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer in the present invention employs a means of detachably providing a curtain tent consisting of an extension tent, an extension floor panel, a clamping means, and a gap-preventing means to the tailgate of the trailer cabin.

[0020] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer in the present invention employs a towing device consisting of a pivoting frame structure and a trailer cabin formed within legally regulated dimensions that allow it to be towed by a motorcycle.

Advantages of the Invention

[0021] According to the convertible camping trailer in the present invention, by using used cars such as second-hand cars, cars, scrap cars, junk cars, and accident-damaged cars for the base vehicle of the convertible camping trailer, it is possible to provide a convertible camping trailer in an extremely low price range that has never existed before, and thus has excellent effects such as this.

[0022] Also, according to the convertible camping trailer in the present invention, since the body of the vehicle uses the existing vehicle body design (body design) of the vehicle, it is possible to provide a convertible camping trailer with excellent body design performance in terms of compactness, lightness, drivability, exterior design, diversity, robustness, waterproofness, sound insulation, durability, weather resistance, safety, convenience, availability of repair parts, etc., and thus has excellent effects such as this.

[0023] Also, according to the convertible camping trailer in the present invention, since it can be easily detached from the towing vehicle and stored, when parked at home, it can be used as a study room for children or a secret base, and when used by adults, it can be used as a hobby room (watching movies / music, reading, playing games, Go, Shogi, Mahjong, painting, playing musical instruments, etc.), a study, a telework room, or a relaxation room, and thus has excellent effects such as this.

[0024] Also, according to the convertible camping trailer in the present invention, during manufacturing, the functions and devices necessary for self-propulsion are removed while leaving the rear tire part of the used car with a hatchback specification of the existing used car, and since it only involves the operation of cutting off a part of the front window part, the bonnet part, the headlamp part, and the front grill part, compared with the conventional handmade camping trailer, the manufacturing cost, the manufacturing days, and the manufacturing process are significantly reduced, and thus has excellent effects such as this.

[0025] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer according to the present invention offers excellent advantages, such as being able to reuse existing equipment from used cars, including side marker lights, turn signals, brake lights, interior lights, license plate lights, hazard lights, battery, locking key, automatic door locking device, door glass lifting device, anti-theft warning device, radio, and cigarette lighter, thus providing a convertible camping trailer with superior security and convenience.

[0026] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer according to the present invention offers the excellent effect of ensuring complete privacy by applying a shielding film or body paint to the windows of an existing used car.

[0027] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer according to the present invention has the excellent effect of effectively utilizing vehicle resources that would otherwise be scrapped, by using used cars with reduced vehicle value, such as second-hand cars, non-operational cars, scrap cars, abandoned cars, and accident cars, as the base vehicle.

[0028] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer of the present invention offers excellent advantages, such as the ability to use the towing vehicle as a regular passenger car for commuting and shopping in everyday life, and then detaching the trailer cabin and using it as a familiar passenger car at a leisure destination, thereby eliminating fatigue from driving and allowing for a wider range of activities such as sightseeing and shopping at leisure destinations.

[0029] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer according to the present invention offers excellent advantages, such as providing a space suitable for various purposes (storing beds, sofas, bicycles, motorcycles, tents, surfing equipment, paragliders, scuba diving equipment, mountaineering equipment, sports equipment, camping equipment, bedding, etc.) because the entire interior floor is open and flat.

[0030] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer of this invention offers excellent benefits, such as increasing the purchasing desire of camping users by providing a lineup of trailer homes that are low-priced and feature diverse car designs for each vehicle, and enabling the production and display sales of pre-produced vehicles.

[0031] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer according to the present invention offers the excellent advantage of allowing buyers to purchase a unique and affordable convertible camping trailer that suits their personal preferences and budget, unlike anything seen before.

[0032] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer according to the present invention offers several advantages, such as requiring less parking space because the trailer house is formed from a relatively compact small vehicle ranging from a light van type to a one-box type, and having a shorter towing length compared to conventional camping trailers, making it easy to drive even for women or drivers with little driving experience.

[0033] Furthermore, while conventional camping trailers have mainly been designed for large families with luxurious and spacious interiors, the convertible camping trailer of the present invention is a compact convertible camping trailer equipped with the minimum necessary equipment for auto camping, targeting smaller groups (couples, lovers, or hobby groups) and young people pursuing their hobbies (solo campers who sleep in their cars). This has the excellent effect of attracting a new market segment different from the family-oriented demand of conventional camping trailers.

[0034] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer according to the present invention offers the excellent advantage of being able to provide a diverse and innovative car design that can be tailored to the user's preferences and the year of manufacture, by using materials such as canvas, leather, FRP, steel plate, aluminum plate, and synthetic resin for the rooftop cover.

[0035] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer of this invention is small, lightweight, easy to use, and can be rented at a low cost. This has the excellent effect of attracting new tourists even in municipalities where accommodation facilities are not adequately developed, by proposing travel plans such as "rental car camping trips" at local train stations, tourist information centers, and rental car offices.

[0036] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer of the present invention offers several advantages: by deploying multiple camping trailers equipped with outdoor tents in scenic campgrounds and operating a "camping trailer village" managed by a local government, it can secure budgetary funds as a source of tourism revenue during normal times, be used as a mobile temporary evacuation center during emergencies and disasters, and provide accommodation for tourists attending large-scale festivals held by local governments. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0037] [Figure 1] This is an explanatory diagram showing an embodiment of the convertible camping trailer of the present invention. (Example 1) [Figure 2] This is a cross-sectional diagram illustrating the usage state of the convertible camping trailer of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is an explanatory diagram showing another embodiment of the convertible camping trailer of the present invention. (Example 2) [Figure 4] This is an explanatory diagram showing another embodiment of the convertible camping trailer of the present invention. (Example 3) [Figure 5]This is an explanatory diagram showing another embodiment of the convertible camping trailer of the present invention. (Example 4) [Figure 6] This is an explanatory diagram showing another embodiment of the convertible camping trailer of the present invention. (Example 5) [Figure 7] This is an explanatory diagram showing another usage scenario of the convertible camping trailer of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is an explanatory diagram showing another embodiment of the convertible camping trailer of the present invention. (Example 6) [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0038] The most distinctive feature of the convertible camping trailer 10 in the present invention is that it is constructed by removing the functions and devices necessary for self-propulsion from a hatchback-type used car, leaving only the rear tires, and removing the front windshield, bonnet, headlamp, and part of the front grille to form an opening 13 into which a rooftop cover 12 is detachably attached. Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0039] Furthermore, the convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below, and can be modified as appropriate within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention, that is, within the range of shapes and dimensions that can achieve the same effects. Furthermore, while the convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention uses an existing used car to construct the trailer cabin 11, it is also possible to construct the trailer cabin 11 of the present invention using a new car body from a new car manufacturer. [Examples]

[0040] Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an embodiment of the convertible camping trailer of the present invention. Figure 1(a) is an explanatory diagram showing the state before the rooftop cover 12, which is made of canvas or leather fabric, is installed. Figure 1(b) is an explanatory diagram showing the state after the rooftop cover 12, which is made of canvas or leather fabric, has been installed. The convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention is a trailer cabin 11 having an opening 13 formed by removing the functions and devices necessary for self-propulsion, leaving the rear tires of a hatchback-type used car, and removing part of the front windshield, bonnet, headlamp, and front grille. The front part of the trailer cabin 11 is fitted with a front panel 15 that covers part of the headlamp and front grille, a rooftop cover 12 made of canvas or leather fabric that covers the entire opening 13 is detachably fitted above the opening 13, tire house covers 17 that cover the entire front tire house 16 are fitted on both sides, and a towing device 19 and a ground fixing device 20 are provided at the front lower part.

[0041] The trailer cabin 11 is a hatchback-type used car with the rear tires remaining, but the functions and devices necessary for self-propulsion have been removed, and it has an opening 13 formed by removing part of the front windshield, hood, headlights, and front grille. The existing used car body's built-in side marker lights, turn signals, brake lights, interior lights, license plate lights, hazard lights, battery, locking key, automatic door locking device, door glass lifting device, anti-theft warning device, radio, cigarette lighter, etc., are reused.

[0042] The base vehicle for the Trailer Cabin 11 is a hatchback-type used car with an opening rear door, such as an existing used car, a non-running car, a scrap car, a derelict car, or a car involved in an accident. The windows are fitted with opaque film or body paint to protect privacy during overnight stays. Suitable vehicle types include minivans, station wagons, commercial vans, light vans, and high-roof vehicles.

[0043] The rooftop cover 12 is made of flexible canvas or leather and is formed to cover the entire opening 13. Its shape is a gently flat shape that matches the body design of the used car. For example, eyelets are provided around the periphery so that it can be detachably attached to eyelets provided around the periphery of the opening 13 of the trailer cabin 11. Its shape and means of attachment are not particularly limited.

[0044] The front panel 15 is a sheet metal member formed to cover the headlamp area and part of the front grille area of ​​the trailer cabin 11. It is welded to the body of the trailer cabin 11, and then integrally painted after being filled with putty. Furthermore, the shape of the front panel 15 can be arbitrarily formed to match the shape of existing used car models.

[0045] The tire house cover 17 is formed to cover the entire front tire house 16 and welded to the body of the trailer cabin 11, after which it is filled with putty and painted as a single piece.

[0046] The floorboard panel 18 uses a modular floorboard material that is covered with floor carpet. For motorcycle and bicycle specifications, aluminum scaffolding material is used, and for waterproof specifications, rubber mats and the like can be freely combined and equipped.

[0047] The rear tires will reuse the rear tires from existing used cars.

[0048] The towing device 19, also known as a hitch member, is connected to the rear lower center of the body frame of passenger car C (towing vehicle) and the front lower center of the trailer cabin 11 by a ball mount and receiver, and is equipped with a trailer jack with driving assistance tires, a parking brake, a safety connecting chain, wiring connectors, a ventilation duct hose, etc.

[0049] The grounding and fixing device 20 is, for example, provided on both sides of the front lower part of the trailer cabin 11. When traveling, it is folded inward and stored, and when grounding and fixing, it is opened outward from the folded state, and the handle is rotated to make the fixing feet touch the ground and fix the device in place.

[0050] The interior space R is formed by the trailer cabin 11 and the rooftop cover 12. This space can accommodate kitchen cabinets, a refrigerator, a generator, a water storage tank, gas cylinders, a portable toilet, etc., and can also be equipped with a table, television, AC power outlet, USB port, etc., allowing it to be used for multiple purposes such as cooking, entertainment, and sleeping.

[0051] The air conditioning and heating system, standard equipment on passenger car C (towing vehicle), can supply air from passenger car C (towing vehicle) to the trailer cabin 11 via a switchable air duct hose. (The operation function can also be linked to passenger car C (towing vehicle) and operated from an existing used car.) Additionally, by securing AC power from a generator, it is possible to use portable household heating and cooling systems.

[0052] Furthermore, by equipping the convertible camping trailer 10 with suspension-equipped driving tires (which can also serve as driving aid tires for the towing device 19, which are wide and heavy tires) at the front center bottom to create a three-wheeled configuration, driving performance and steering capabilities are improved, while simultaneously ensuring stability when parked.

[0053] A gasoline tank can be modified to temporarily store wastewater drained from a kitchen sink, and then drain it by opening a drain cock located on the outside of the tank where drainage is possible.

[0054] Figure 1(c) is an explanatory diagram showing a passenger car C (towing vehicle) towing the convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention. By connecting the towing device 19 and the ground fixing device 20 between the passenger car C (towing vehicle) and the camping trailer, the camping trailer of the same type as the passenger car C can be towed while driving. Compared to conventional camping trailers, it is a compact trailer that is smaller and easier to drive, making it possible to propose new purchases to a wide range of buyers, such as camping car beginners, solo campers, the elderly, and women. Furthermore, at leisure destinations, the camping trailer can be detached from the passenger car C, making it possible to provide a camping trailer that allows the user to enjoy leisure activities and drives independently while remaining in the passenger car C.

[0055] The convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention, as described above, has a front windshield and bonnet section of the trailer cabin 11 that is suitable for a body design that is close to a streamlined shape, and offers extremely high cost performance compared to conventional camping trailers.

[0056] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional diagram illustrating the usage state of the convertible camping trailer according to the present invention. Figure 2(a) is a cross-sectional diagram illustrating the state in which the floor surface F is set at the low floor position of the vehicle body frame. The floorboard panel 18 uses an assembly-type floorboard material that is covered with floor carpet, and is directly attached to the body frame of the trailer cabin 11 to secure a comfortable sleeping space R inside the vehicle.

[0057] The convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention, configured as described above, can secure a comfortable sleeping space R inside the trailer cabin by directly attaching the floor panel 18 to the body frame of the trailer cabin 11, utilizing the floor space 32 inside the trailer cabin 11.

[0058] Figure 2(b) is a cross-sectional diagram showing the floor surface F set to the seat position of the rear seat 39. The floor panel 18 uses a prefabricated floor panel material that is covered with floor carpet, and secures an interior space radius (R) that matches the height of the rear seat surface 39 of the trailer cabin 11.

[0059] The convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention, as described above, can secure an interior space R that combines livability and comfort by using the floor space 32 inside the trailer cabin 11 and the seat surface of the rear seat 39, by installing the floor panel 18 to match the height of the seat surface of the rear seat 39 in the trailer cabin 11.

[0060] Figure 2(c) is a cross-sectional diagram showing the floor surface F set to the height of the back of the rear seat 39. The floor panel 18 is made of a prefabricated floor material that is covered with floor carpet, and it ensures an interior space radius (R) that matches the height of the backrest of the rear seat 39 of the trailer cabin 11.

[0061] The convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention, as described above, can secure an interior space R that combines livability and comfort by setting the floor surface F to match the height of the back of the rear seat 39 of the trailer cabin 11, utilizing the floor space 32, the seat back space 34, and the luggage space 35 within the trailer cabin 11. [Examples]

[0062] Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing another embodiment of the convertible camping trailer of the present invention. The convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention employs a method in which the rooftop cover 12 is formed of canvas or leather fabric having a gusset portion 12a, or of canvas or leather fabric and a reinforcing member 12b, or a hardtop member 12c.

[0063] Figure 3(a) is an explanatory diagram showing the state of a rooftop cover 12, which is made of canvas or leather fabric and has a gusset portion 12a, before and after installation. In a trailer cabin 11 having an opening 13 formed by removing the functions and devices necessary for self-propulsion, leaving the rear tires of a hatchback-type used car, and removing part of the front windshield, bonnet, headlights, and front grille, a front panel 15 covering part of the headlights and front grille is attached to the front of the trailer cabin 11, a rooftop cover 12 made of canvas or leather fabric with a gusset portion 12a covering the entire opening 13 is attached detachably above the opening 13, tire house covers 17 covering the entire front tire house 16 are attached to both sides, and a towing device 19 and a ground fixing device 20 are provided at the front lower part.

[0064] The rooftop cover 12 is made of canvas or leather fabric, and by forming gussets 12a on both sides, it is formed into a gentle trapezoidal shape to match the body design of existing used cars.

[0065] The gusset portion 12a is a roughly triangular cover area provided on both sides of the rooftop cover 12, and is formed to match the angle between the front window portion and the bonnet portion of the trailer cabin 11.

[0066] The convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention, as described above, is suitable for a body design in which the angle between the front windshield and bonnet of the trailer cabin 11 is relatively close to a right angle, and offers extremely high cost performance compared to conventional camping trailers.

[0067] Figure 3(b) is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the rooftop cover 12, which is made of canvas or leather fabric and equipped with reinforcing member 12b, before and after installation. In a trailer cabin 11 having an opening 13 formed by removing the functions and devices necessary for self-propulsion, leaving the rear tires of a hatchback-type used car, and removing part of the front windshield, bonnet, headlamp, and front grille, a front panel 15 covering part of the headlamp and front grille is attached to the front of the trailer cabin 11, a rooftop cover 12 made of canvas or leather fabric and reinforcing member 12b is detachably attached above the opening 13 to cover the entire opening 13, tire house covers 17 covering the entire front tire house 16 are attached to both sides, and a towing device 19 and ground fixing device 20 are provided at the front lower part.

[0068] The rooftop cover 12 is made of canvas or leather fabric, and its shape is formed to match the shape of the reinforcing member 12b.

[0069] The reinforcing member 12b is a skeletal member that covers the entire opening 13, and is made of a material such as metal or synthetic resin, and can be given any body design, and is detachably attached from the inside to eyelets provided on the periphery of the opening 13 of the trailer cabin 11.

[0070] The convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention, as described above, allows for diverse configurations of the rooftop cover 12 body design to match the body design of the trailer cabin 11, and also offers high cost performance compared to conventional camping trailer body molding methods.

[0071] Figure 3(c) is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the rooftop cover 12, which is formed from the hardtop member 12c, before and after installation. In a trailer cabin 11 having an opening 13 formed by removing the functions and devices necessary for self-propulsion, leaving the rear tires of a hatchback-type used car intact, and removing part of the front windshield, bonnet, headlamp, and front grille, a front panel 15 covering part of the headlamp and front grille is attached to the front of the trailer cabin 11, a rooftop cover 12 made of a hardtop member 12c that covers the entire opening 13 is detachably attached above the opening 13, tire house covers 17 that cover the entire front tire house 16 are attached to both sides, and a towing device 19 and a ground fixing device 20 are provided at the front lower part.

[0072] The hardtop member 12c is a molded member that covers the entire opening 13. Materials such as metal sheet metal, synthetic resin, and FRP can be used, allowing for a highly flexible body design.

[0073] The convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention, as described above, allows for diverse configurations of the rooftop cover 12 body design to match the body design of the trailer cabin 11, and also offers high cost performance compared to conventional camping trailer body molding methods. [Examples]

[0074] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram showing another embodiment of the convertible camping trailer of the present invention. The convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention employs a method of providing a storage box 24 on the side of the front wheel well 16 of the trailer cabin 11, with the wheel well cover 17 serving as an opening and closing lid.

[0075] The tire house cover 17 is formed in the shape of a roughly semicircular door that can be opened and closed to close the tire house 16 that is formed on both sides of the front of an existing used car, and the bottom of the tire house 16 is closed with a bottom plate 24a, and a storage box 24 is provided on the bottom plate 24a that can be opened and closed with hinges or the like.

[0076] The convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention, as described above, can be used as a storage compartment in the storage box 24 inside the wheel well for storing relatively dirty equipment such as chains, parking blocks, tow ropes, camping gear, and tent anchors. [Examples]

[0077] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing another embodiment of the convertible camping trailer of the present invention. The convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention employs a means of detachably providing a deck roof bar 14 at the upper end of the opening 13 of the trailer cabin 11.

[0078] Figure 5(a) is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the deck roof bar 14 is attached to the upper end of the opening 13 of the convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention. The deck roof bar 14 is detachably attached to the upper end of the opening 13 of the trailer cabin 11, is made of metal reinforcing material, and can be used as a means of protection from rain and sun by covering the folded rooftop cover 12.

[0079] By detachably attaching the deck roof bar 14 to the upper end of the opening 13 of the trailer cabin 11, it can be used as an outdoor terrace deck when resting, thus enabling effective use of the interior space R according to the camper's purpose of use.

[0080] Figure 5(b) is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the opening 13 of the convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention is opened. By leaving the opening 13 of the trailer cabin 11 open, it can be used as an outdoor terrace deck during rest periods, allowing campers to choose between the interior space R and the outdoor space according to their needs. [Examples]

[0081] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram showing another embodiment of the convertible camping trailer of the present invention. Figure 6(a) is an exploded perspective view showing the curtain rod 21 of the present invention. The convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention is equipped with a curtain tent 21 that can be detachably attached to the tailgate T of the trailer cabin 11, the curtain tent 21 consisting of an extension tent 22, an extension floor panel 23, a clamping means 27, and a gap-retaining means 38.

[0082] The Curtain Tote 21 is a curtain tote that expands the interior space R of a hatchback vehicle by utilizing the tailgate T, and the Curtain Tote 21 consists of an extension tent 22, an extension floor panel 23, a clamping means 27, and a gap-retaining means 38, the extension tent 22 consists of a vertical rectangular tent sheet that opens at the front and bottom, and the extension floor panel 23 consists of a substantially rectangular floor frame that extends to the rear, and the front part is connected to a grommet hole provided below the step of the tailgate opening of the hatchback vehicle The system includes a hooking and connecting means 25, and on both sides, rotatably provided are horizontal suspension means 26 that can be hooked into grommet holes provided on both sides of the tailgate opening step of the hatchback vehicle. The clamping means 27 is formed by clamping the peripheral edge of the tailgate T of the hatchback vehicle, which is covered by the extension tent 22, from both the upper and lower sides with a plurality of clamping hands 27a, and the ends of both sides of the extension tent 22 and the tailgate opening step of the hatchback vehicle are tightly fixed together with gap-retaining means 38.

[0083] The extension tent 22 consists of a vertically rectangular tent sheet with openings at the front and bottom. The middle section is secured by a retaining means 30 provided on the side periphery of the extension floorboard panel 23, and the lower end is provided with a means to suppress flapping of the curtain tent 21 on soft ground or in strong winds by driving pegs into through holes. Additionally, by providing an entrance zipper on the rear, it is possible to allow passengers to get in and out from the rear.

[0084] The extension floor panel 23 is formed from a rectangular panel plate in the shape of a footrest, with reinforcing ribs forming the structure. Retaining means 30 are arranged in a row on the side periphery to suppress the flapping of the extension tent 22. A latching connection means 25 is provided at the front, and both sides are formed in a shape that fits into the tailgate opening step of a hatchback vehicle. It is made of metal or resin with the required length, width, and thickness, and its rigidity is further enhanced by the rib structure. Furthermore, by using hinges or similar mechanisms to make it foldable, it can be compactly folded and stored within the luggage space 35.

[0085] The latching connection means 25 is formed, for example, by hooks shaped like a key and provided on the front side of the extension floor panel 23, and is connected by hooking into a plurality of grommet holes provided at the height of the floor surface F of the tailgate opening step of a hatchback vehicle.

[0086] The horizontal suspension means 26 are provided on both sides of the extension floor panel 23 at approximately the midpoint in the longitudinal direction and are connected to the grommet holes on both sides of the tailgate opening step of the hatchback vehicle by chains, belts, etc., with hooking and connecting means 25 at the ends, so as to maintain a horizontal state. When sleeping, the sleeping space R can be secured by utilizing the extension floor panel space 33 of the extension floor panel 23 which is fixed in a horizontal state.

[0087] The clamping means 27 can be attached, for example, to the tailgate T of a hatchback vehicle to expand the interior space R. Specifically, the peripheral edge of the tailgate T of the hatchback vehicle, which is covered by the expansion tent 22, is clamped from both the upper and lower sides by a plurality of clamping devices 27a (for example, clamping clips, etc.).

[0088] Through-holes and pegs are provided as means to prevent the lower end of the extension tent 22 from flapping.

[0089] The gap-retaining means 38 is, for example, a clamping device provided to clamp and fix both ends of the extension tent 22 to the packing portion of the tailgate T of a hatchback vehicle.

[0090] The restraining means (not shown) are provided as a means to suppress the flapping of the extension tent 22, and are, for example, provided around the side edges of the extension floorboard panel 23 and the middle section of the extension tent 22, and are secured by fasteners such as rivet hooks and buttons.

[0091] Grommet holes (not shown) are provided on both sides at the height of the floor surface F of the tailgate opening step of the hatchback vehicle and are connected to the latching connection means 25 of the extension floor panel 23. Furthermore, while there are no particular limitations regarding the shape of the grommet hole, it is desirable to provide a circular hole with vertical grooves extending upwards and downwards so that the hook-shaped hook of the latching connection means 25 provided on the front side of the extension floor panel 23 can easily hook into it.

[0092] Figure 6(b) is an explanatory diagram showing the assembly and installation procedure of the curtain rod 21 of the present invention. (1) Lift the tailgate T of the trailer cabin 11 upwards to a horizontal position and fix the tailgate damper (not shown). (2) The latching connection means 25 provided in front of the extension floor panel 23 is connected to the grommet holes on both sides of the tailgate opening step of the hatchback vehicle so as to maintain a horizontal position. (3) Insert the opening of the extension tent 22 into the top surface of the tailgate T and cover it. (4) The periphery of the tailgate T of the trailer cabin 11 is clamped from both the upper and lower sides by multiple clamping devices 27a. (5) If the packing portion of the tailgate opening step protrudes above the floor surface F, a thick sleeping mattress is laid on the sleeping space 31 and the extended floorboard panel 23. (6) Drive pegs into the through holes provided at the lower end of the extension tent 22. (See Figure 6(a)) (7) The opening on the front of the extension tent 22 and the packing portion of the tailgate opening step are clamped and secured without any gaps by the gap-retaining means 38. (See Figure 6(a)) (8) Completed.

[0093] Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram showing another use case of the convertible camping trailer of the present invention. Figure 7(a) is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the tailgate T of the trailer cabin 11 is lifted upward and the extension floor panel 23 is attached. By attaching the extension floor panel 23 to the rear of a hatchback vehicle, the outdoor terrace deck can be utilized to create space outside the vehicle.

[0094] Figure 7(b) is a cross-sectional diagram showing the state in which the tailgate T of the trailer cabin 11 is lifted upward and the curtain rod 21 is attached. By using the curtain gate 21 of the present invention to lift the tailgate T of the trailer cabin 11 upward, a sleeping space 31 and an extended floor panel space 33 are secured, thereby securing an interior space R within the trailer cabin 11 that combines livability and comfort.

[0095] The sleeping space 31 is provided on the floor surface F by a floor space 32, a seat back space 34 formed by folding the rear seats 39 installed in the hatchback vehicle forward, a luggage space 35, and an extended floor panel space 33 that rotates to maintain a horizontal position. Furthermore, the Curtain Tote 21 of the present invention can be provided as an optional product for campervans for all types of hatchback vehicles.

[0096] Figure 7(c) is an explanatory diagram showing a convertible camping trailer 10 equipped with a Curtain Tow 21 and a passenger car C (towing vehicle) also equipped with a Curtain Tow 21 facing each other. By positioning a convertible camping trailer 10 equipped with a Curtain Tote 21 and a passenger car C (towing vehicle) also equipped with a Curtain Tote 21 facing each other in the rear, it is possible to secure sleeping space 31 that is greater than the passenger capacity (4 people) of the passenger car. [Examples]

[0097] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram showing another embodiment of the convertible camping trailer of the present invention. Figure 8(a) is a side view illustrating the state of being towed by motorcycle B (tow vehicle). Figure 8(b) is a top view diagram showing the state of being towed by motorcycle B (tow vehicle). The convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention employs a towing device 19 consisting of a folding towing device 40 with a swivel frame structure, and a trailer cabin 11 formed within legally regulated dimensions so that it can be towed by a motorcycle B.

[0098] The body width W, body length H, and weight of the trailer cabin 11 are restricted according to the regulations of the Road Transport Vehicle Act, the Road Act, and the Road Traffic Act, in accordance with the engine displacement of motorcycle B (towing vehicle). Existing used cars are modified to be reduced in size to match the engine displacement of motorcycle B (towing vehicle) to keep them within the legally mandated limits.

[0099] The articulated towing device 40 consists of a pivot base mounted at the rear of the motorcycle B (towing vehicle) body frame and a roughly L-shaped pivot frame with a reinforcing structure mounted in front of the trailer cabin 11, and is equipped with wiring connectors, ventilation duct hoses, etc. Furthermore, the mounting and fixing mechanism for the swivel frame can also be equipped with a height adjustment function to match the mounting height of the motorcycle B (towing vehicle) to which it is attached.

[0100] The convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention, as described above, allows the motorcycle and trailer cabin 11 to be detached at the travel destination, enabling riders to enjoy motorcycle touring at tourist destinations. Furthermore, the fact that the motorcycle B (towing vehicle) and the trailer cabin 11 can be folded in the middle by the folding towing device 40 makes it possible to provide a convertible camping trailer 10 that can reduce the turning radius during driving and improve driving maneuverability.

[0101] The convertible camping trailer 10 of the present invention, as described above, reduces the body width W, body length H, and weight of the trailer cabin 11 to within legally regulated values, allowing the camping trailer to be towed by a small-displacement motorcycle (including mopeds and bicycles), thus enabling solo campers to travel and sleep in their motorcycles B. [Industrial applicability]

[0102] The convertible camping trailer of the present invention is composed of the body, frame, front and rear tires, shock absorbers, brakes, indicator lights, coupling and towing device, and ground fixing device of an existing used car. By utilizing an existing used car, it achieves low cost, and the "convertible camping trailer" of the present invention excels in body design performance such as compactness, lightness, drivability, exterior design, versatility, robustness, waterproofing, sound insulation, durability, weather resistance, safety, convenience, and availability of repair parts. We believe that the "convertible camping trailer" of the present invention has extremely great industrial applicability. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 10 Convertible Camping Trailers 11 Trailer Cabin 12 Rooftop Cover 12a Gusset 12b Reinforcement member 12c hardtop components 13 Opening 14 Deck Roof Bars 15 Front Panel 16 Front wheel arch 17. Wheel arch cover 18 Floorboard Panels 19 Traction device 20 Earthing fixing device 21 Curtain 22 Extension Tent 23 Extension floorboard panels 24 Storage Boxes 24a bottom plate 25 Latching connection means 26 Horizontal lifting means 27 Clamping means 27a clamping tool 30 Restraint measures 31 Sleeping space 32 floor space 33 Extension floor panel space 34 Seat back space 35 Luggage space 36 Floorboard storage space 37 Underfloor storage items 38 Gap-retaining means 39 Rear seat 40. Articulated traction device 41 Storage Box 24 42 Deck Roof Bars 43 Gusset 44 Reinforcement members 45 Hardtop components T Tailgate R Interior space F Floor C Passenger car B Motorcycle W Body width dimension H Body length dimension

Claims

1. A convertible camping trailer characterized by having an opening formed by removing the functions and devices necessary for self-propulsion, leaving the rear tires of a hatchback-type used car, and removing part of the front windshield, bonnet, headlights, and front grille, wherein a front panel covering part of the headlights and front grille is attached to the front of the trailer cabin, a rooftop cover covering the entire opening is attached detachably above the opening, wheel arch covers covering the entire front wheel arches are attached to both sides, and a towing device and ground fixing device are provided at the front lower part.

2. The convertible camping trailer according to claim 1, characterized in that the rooftop cover is formed of canvas or leather fabric having a gusset, or canvas or leather fabric and a reinforcing member, or a hardtop member.

3. The convertible camping trailer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a storage box with the wheel well cover as an opening and closing lid is provided on the side of the front wheel well of the trailer cabin.

4. A convertible camping trailer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a deck roof bar is detachably provided at the upper end of the opening of the trailer cabin.

5. A convertible camping trailer according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that a curtain tent comprising an extension tent, an extension floor panel, a clamping means, and a gap-retaining means is detachably provided on the tailgate of the trailer cabin.

6. The convertible camping trailer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the towing device consists of a folding towing device with a swivel frame structure, and the trailer cabin is formed within legally regulated values ​​that allow it to be towed by a motorcycle.

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