Quick erect / strike compact dome camping tent system

Abstract

A collapsible tent for has a frame with a hub having an inner and outer hub and having a plurality of support poles disposed around the hub. The upper end of each support pole is pivotally connected to the inner hub and is operable to pivot relative to the inner hub between a retracted position substantially parallel to a hub axis and an extended position projecting radially outwardly from the hub. The outer hub is configured to selectively rotate relative to the inner hub about the hub axis between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the locked position of the outer hub, the upper end of each support pole being locked in the extended position, and in the unlocked position of the outer hub, the upper end of each support pole being operable to transition between the extended and retracted positions.

Description

TITLE OF THE INVENTIONQUICK ERECT / STRIKE COMPACT DOME CAMPING TENT SYSTEMFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention pertains to the field of tents.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Tents are widely used for outdoor recreation, temporary shelters, and emergency situations. For many users, particularly novice campers, ease and speed of tent setup and takedown are critical factors in selecting a tent.Traditional assemble-to-use tents often require multiple steps for installation, including connecting and securing poles, staking the structure, and attaching additional components such as rain flies or covers. These steps can be timeconsuming, cumbersome, and difficult, particularly in adverse weather conditions or low-light environments. As a result, foldable tents, commonly known as "instant tents," "one-touch tents," or "pop-up tents," have gained popularity due to their ability to be deployed and collapsed quickly with minimal effort.

[0003] Various designs of instant tents have been developed to address the demand for rapid deployment. One such design, exemplified in U.S. Pat. No.6,581 ,617, incorporates a central shaft and movable sub-braces that pivotally extend and retract in a manner like an umbrella. These umbrella-type instant tents utilize locking mechanisms to maintain the tent in an open configuration. While this design offers improved convenience compared to conventional assemble-to-use tents, it introduces several drawbacks. The additional components, including the central shaft, sub-braces, and locking mechanisms, increase manufacturing costs and labor requirements.Furthermore, the complexity of the structure results in a higher likelihood ofmechanical failure, requiring maintenance or replacement of parts. The inclusion of these components also contributes to increased weight and bulk, making transportation and storage less convenient.

[0004] To address these issues, alternative instant tent designs have been developed that eliminate the need for a central shaft, sub-braces, and locking mechanisms. One such improvement is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12 / 658,473 ("the '473 Application"), which discloses a tent structure wherein the poles are pivotally connected directly to a hub and transition between open and closed configurations without additional structural components. While this design enhances usability and reduces complexity, certain challenges remain, leaving room for further innovation.

[0005] One persistent issue with instant tents is the lack of an integrated weather-resistant cover or rain fly. Some models include a separate rain fly to provide protection from precipitation and sun exposure; however, these covers must be manually attached and removed by the user. Additionally, conventional rain flies often obscure the tent's windows, further restricting airflow and exacerbating ventilation issues.

[0006] Despite advancements in instant tent technology, there remains a need for a collapsible tent that addresses multiple technical challenges simultaneously. A significant technical problem is the trade-off between structural stability, ease of use, and weight reduction. Many collapsible tents struggle to maintain a balance between these factors. A tent that is lightweight and easy to deploy may lack the necessary durability to withstand adverse weather conditions such as strong winds or heavy rainfall. Conversely, reinforcing the structure often results in increased weight and complexity, negating the benefits of rapid deployment.

[0007] Another technical issue pertains to the integration of ventilation and weather protection. Current designs either compromise ventilation by relying on fully enclosed rain covers or fail to provide adequate weather resistancewhen optimizing for airflow. An improved collapsible tent must incorporate a system that allows for controlled ventilation even in adverse weather conditions while maintaining the tent’s lightweight and compact characteristics.

[0008] Furthermore, durability of the tent’s folding mechanisms remains a concern. Repeated folding and unfolding cycles can lead to material fatigue and mechanical failure, particularly in the joints and connectors. A novel approach is required to enhance the longevity of these components while maintaining ease of operation.

[0009] Given these challenges, there remains an opportunity to develop an improved collapsible tent that integrates enhanced durability, structural stability, ventilation control, and weather resistance, all while ensuring ease of setup and compact storage.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention is intended to overcome at least the abovedescribed disadvantages and to provide further improvements to tent systems. The objects and advantages of the present invention, more specifically, are to provide a complete tent system that can be deployed quickly and efficiently.

[0011] The present invention generally provides a collapsible tent for use on a support surface. The tent has an enclosure having a bottom with a floor and a canopy extending upwardly from the bottom. The tent also includes a frame having a hub and a plurality of support poles, and the frame is operable to support the canopy in an elevated position above the floor of the enclosure.

[0012] The support poles are disposed around a periphery of the hub. Each support pole has at least one joint operable to allow the support pole to transition between a folded position for storage and an unfolded position for supporting the canopy in the elevated position. Each support pole has alower end connected to the bottom of the enclosure and an upper end connected to the hub. In an unfolded state, each support pole is configured to bow outwardly upon downward force on the hub whereby the upper end of each support pole pivots into the extended position.

[0013] The hub has a hub axis passing through a center of the hub, and the hub axis is substantially perpendicular to the support surface. The hub has an outer hub, and an inner hub disposed at least partially within the inner hub.

[0014] The upper end of each support pole is pivotally connected to the inner hub, preferably in a permanent manner, and is operable to pivot relative to the inner hub about a pivot axis substantially perpendicular to the hub axis between a retracted position substantially parallel to the hub axis and an extended position projecting radially outwardly from the hub, for example perpendicular to the hub axis.

[0015] The outer hub is configured to selectively rotate relative to the inner hub about the hub axis between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the locked position of the outer hub, the upper end of each support pole are locked in the extended position, which can be substantially perpendicular to the hub axis. In the unlocked position of the outer hub, the upper end of each pole are operable to transition between the extended and retracted positions.

[0016] The tent can also have a rain fly disposed over the enclosure and can have a rain fly pole with bottom free end configured to connect with the rain fly. An upper end of the rain fly pole is pivotally connected to the inner hub, preferably in a permanent manner, and is operable to pivot relative to the hub about a pivot axis substantially perpendicular to the hub axis between a retracted position substantially parallel to the hub axis and an extended position projecting radially outwardly from the hub.

[0017] The hub is configured such that pivoting movement of one or more of the support poles into the extended position causes pivoting movement of the rain fly pole into the extended position.

[0018] The hub includes a drive element configured to translate along the hub axis upon pivoting movement of one or more of the support poles into the extended position, and the drive element being operable to translate pivoting movement of the one or more support poles into the extended position into pivoting movement of the rain fly pole into the extended position. The hub includes a spring operable to bias drive element and to bias the support poles and the rain fly pole in the retracted position.

[0019] The enclosure of the tent is preferably connected to a bottom of the hub and a rain fly is connected to the hub above the enclosure. A rain fly bag can be connected to the hub between the rain fly and the enclosure and is operable to contain and enclose the rain fly in a collapsed form above and supported by the hub when the rain fly is not desired or for storage.

[0020] An ergonomic grip is preferably connected to a top of the hub and has a plurality of radial projections and recesses disposed around the grip which provide a secure hand hold and a mechanical advantage for rotating the hub during use. Each or some of the radial projections of the ergonomic grip can include a through hole operable for connection to a wind line for securing the tent to the ground or other support surface.

[0021] To set up the tent, the installer can unfold the support poles into a straight, unfolded configuration. Then, by putting downward vertical pressure on the hub, the hub moves downwardly and the support poles bow outward causing the enclosure and canopy attached thereto to shape into a dome shape, and causing the support poles and rain fly pole(s) to pivot upwardly and radially outwardly at which time the installer can manually rotate the outer hub clockwise relative to the inner hub and frame to locked the tent system in place. To strike (store) the tent the installer can follow the above steps inreverse (i.e., downward force and opposite (for example counterclockwise) rotation of the outer hub to unlock the frame 12 and collapse the tent.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a tent system constructed according to the invention.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of two support poles and a rain fly pole connected to a hub.

[0024] FIGs. 3A and 3B are perspective views of a joint element of a first joint.

[0025] FIGs. 4A and 4B are perspective views of a joint element of a second joint.

[0026] FIGs. 5A and 5B are perspective views of a top end plug for a support pole.

[0027] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a bottom end plug for a support pole.

[0028] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a top end plug for a rain fly pole.

[0029] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a first embodiment of the inner hub.

[0030] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the drive element.

[0031] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of a first embodiment of the hub.

[0032] FIG. 11 is a partial exploded view of the tent system.

[0033] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a twist connector.

[0034] FIGs. 13A-13C are side views of the hub in first, second and third positions.

[0035] Fig. 14A is a top plan view of a partial assembly of the hub, in a first position.

[0036] FIG. 14B is a cross-section view of a partial assembly of the hub, taken along line A-A of Fig. 14A.

[0037] FIG. 15A is a top plan view of a partial assembly of the hub, in a second position.

[0038] FIG. 15B is a cross-section view of a partial assembly of the hub, taken along line A-A of Fig. 15A.

[0039] FIG. 16A is a top plan view of a partial assembly of the hub, in a third position, and FIG 16B is a cross-section view of a partial assembly of the hub, taken along line A-A of Fig. 16A.

[0040] FIG. 17A is a top plan view of a partial assembly of the hub, in a fourth position.

[0041] FIG. 17B is a cross-section view of a partial assembly of the hub, taken along line A-A of Fig. 17A.

[0042] FIG. 18 is schematic view showing operation of the tent.

[0043] FIG. 19A and 19B are partial perspective views showing the rain fly in deployed and stored positions, respectively.

[0044] FIG. 20 is an exploded view of a second embodiment of the hub.

[0045] FIG. 21 is an exploded view of a second embodiment of the inner hub.

[0046] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the top end plug.

[0047] FIG. 23A is a perspective view of the hub in the first position.

[0048] FIG. 23B is a perspective view of the hub in the second position.

[0049] FIG. 23C is a perspective view of the hub in the third position.

[0050] FIG. 23D is a perspective view of the hub in the fourth position.

[0051] FIG. 23E is a perspective view of the hub in a fifth position.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0052] Referring to Fig. 1 , in a preferred embodiment, the tent system 10 configured for providing temporary and portable shelter for one or more persons or objects includes a frame 12, an enclosure 14 having a bottom 16 with a floor 18 and having a canopy 20 extending upwardly from the floor 18, and the tent system can also include a rain fly 22, all of which are preferably attached to each other. The tent system 10 can also include a standard transport / storage bag with accessories (not shown).

[0053] The frame 12 includes a hub 24 and a plurality of flexible support poles 26 (for example 5) and optionally a rain fly pole 28 (or more than one) all of which are preferably connected to the hub 24 and disposed radially around the hub (e.g., in a circular array) preferably at equally spaced angular intervals, such as at 360 / N degrees where N is the total number of support poles plus canopy poles (for example 60 degrees).

[0054] The enclosure 14 and the rainfly 22 are preferably comprised of flexible and collapsible material such as fabric and are also preferably connected to the hub 24. A front side of the enclosure 14 facing the rain fly pole 28 provides access in and out the enclosure 14 via doorway 30. Doorway 30 opening and closing can be enabled by a zipper 32 that extends at least partially around a perimeter of the door, for example substantially around the entire perimeter. At the area where the zipper starts and ends, the enclosure 14 preferably has a side pocket (not shown) where the doorway can be stored when completely opened.

[0055] Referring to Fig. 2-4, the support poles 26 can have a plurality of segments, for example three segments: A bottom pole segment 34, a middle pole segment 36 and a top pole segment 38 (See also Fig. 1). Preferably,each of the bottom, middle and top pole segments are flexible and can be formed of tubing.

[0056] The bottom pole segment 34 is pivotally connected to middle pole segment 36 by a first joint 40 and the middle pole segment 36 is pivotally connected to top pole segment 38 by a second joint 42.

[0057] The bottom pole segment 34 can have a bottom tubing 44. A bottom end plug 50 is preferably permanently attached to a bottom end of the bottom pole segment 34, for example a bottom end of the bottom tubing 44. The bottom end plug 50 is designed to connect to the bottom 16 of the enclosure 14 via webbing tape (e.g., a strap) and optionally with a ground cover 52 (if provided) disposed below the enclosure 14.

[0058] At a top end of the bottom pole segment 24, for example at a top end of the bottom tubing 44 of the bottom pole segment 24, there is a preferably permanently attached first joint element 54 of the first joint 40. The middle pole segment 36 can include a middle tubing 46. A second joint element 56 of the first joint 40 is preferably permanently attached to a bottom end of middle pole segment 36, for example to a bottom end of the middle tubing 46. A first joint element 58 of the second joint 42 is attached at a top end of the middle pole segment 36, for example a top end of the middle tubing 46. The top pole segment 38 can include a top tubing 48. A second joint element 60 of the second joint 42 is preferably permanently attached at a bottom of the top pole segment 38, for example at a bottom of the top tubing 48 and a top end plug 62 is attached to a top of the top pole segment 38, for example to a top of the top tubing 48.

[0059] Each rain fly pole 28 can include a rain fly tubing 64 and can have a bottom end plug 66 preferably permanently attached to a bottom end of the rain fly pole 28, for example to a bottom end of the rain fly tubing 64, which is designed to connect with and / or support the rain fly 22, for example at a peripheral edge of the rain fly 22, by for example via tape or a strap. A top endplug 68 of the rain fly pole 28 is preferably permanently attached to a top end of the rain fly pole 28, for example to a top end of the rain fly tubing 64.

[0060] Referring to Figs. 3A and 3B, the first and second joint elements 54, 56 of the first joint 40 are preferably of identical or substantially identical geometry (e.g., size and shape) and are pivotally connected by an axle 70 to form first joint 40. The first and second joint elements 58, 60 of the second joint 42 are also preferably of substantially identical geometry and are preferably pivotally connected by an axle 70 to form second joint 42. Each of the first and second joints 40, 42 of each support pole 26 preferably permit and limit relative rotation of the attached pole segments about a pivot axis of the associated axle, between zero degrees (i.e. , folded) and 180 degrees (i.e., extended, for example coaxial), and the pivot axes of the first and second joints of each pole are preferably parallel to each other.

[0061] Each joint element 54, 56 of the first joint 40 has a socket 72 which is adapted to axially receive a pole segment 34, 36 respectively therein, along an opening axis 73 of the socket. The socket 72 is preferably rigidly connected to a pair of (preferably disc like) first and second plates 74, 76. Each plate 74, 76 (or one plate) preferably has an axial through hole 78 preferably through a center thereof, which is adapted to receive the axle 70 therein for pivotally connecting a pair of joint elements. The plates 74, 76 of each joint element are preferably of equal thickness and diameter, and are spaced apart by a distance substantially equal to that thickness so that the pair of plates of one joint element closely interconnect in a mating configuration with the plates of another paired (e.g., identical) joint element, with one plate of each joint element being disposed between the pair of plates of the other joint element and with the axial through holes 78 thereof being in alignment, while allowing for relative pivoting of the interconnected joint elements about the associated axle 70.

[0062] Each joint element 54, 56 of the first joint 40 has a plate axis 79 passing through the axial through hole 78 and parallel to but offset from the opening axis 73 by a distance D. On an outer face of the first plate 74 there is preferably a protrusion 80 which is preferably positioned at -45 degrees from the plate axis 79 (i.e., toward the opening axis 73 of the socket 72). On an inner surface of the second plate 76 there are preferably first, second recesses 82, 84 shaped to receive the protrusion 80 and positioned at +45 and +270 (or -135) degrees from the plate axis 79 (i.e., toward the opening axis 73 of the socket 72 axis). When the joint elements are connected with axle 70 the above geometry in conjunction with the elastic property of the joint elements 54, 56 (e.g., if formed of somewhat flexible material, such as plastic) allows the joint elements to relatively rotate and snap in place in two desired angular positions: A closed position at 0 degrees (i.e., where the interconnected pole segments are in a parallel, folded (i.e., offset) orientation and an open position at 180 degrees (where the poles are aligned, for example in a coaxial or substantially coaxial orientation).

[0063] Referring to Figs. 4A and 4B, the joint elements 58, 60 of the second joint 42 are preferably of identical or substantially identical geometry (e.g., size and shape) are preferably almost identical in construction and similar in function to the joint elements 54, 56 of the first joint 40. Similarly, each joint element 58, 60 of the second joint 42 has a socket 90 which is adapted to axially receive a pole segment 36, 38 respectively therein, along an opening axis 73’ of the socket. The socket 90 is preferably rigidly connected to a pair of (preferably disc like) first and second plates 86, 88. A difference in construction is that, in joint elements 58, 60 of the second joint 42, plate axis 79’ of the two plates 86, 88 (i.e., plate axis 79’ passing through the axial through hole 78 and parallel to but offset from the opening axis 73’) is offset from the opening axis 73’ of the socket 90 a distance D’, which is greater than a corresponding offset D of the joint elements 54, 56 of the first joint 40, which offset D’ is sufficient to create a relatively greater spacing between the polesegments connected thereto during folding, in order to clear and accommodate bottom pole segment 34 between the middle pole segment 36 and top pole segment 38, when the frame 12 is in the packed (closed, folded) configuration.

[0064] The first and second joints 40, 42 are preferably arranged and configured to permit the support poles 26 to only fold inward toward a center of the enclosure such that, when the support poles are fully extended, downward pressure on a top of support poles 26 causes the support poles 26 to bow outwardly.

[0065] Referring to Figs. 5A and 5B, the top end plug 62 of each top pole segment 38 is configured to connect the top pole segment 38 to the hub 24, preferably in a permanent manner. The top end plug 62 has a socket 92 at a first end 94 which preferably extends substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis 95 of the top end plug 62 and which is adapted to receive and preferably permanently connect to a top end of the top pole segment 38. The top end plug 62 also includes a cam 96 at a second end 98, which preferably extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 95. The top end plug 62 also preferably includes a pivot pin 100 disposed between the first and second ends 94, 98, which pivot pin 100 preferably extends laterally outwardly from opposite sides of the top end plug 62. The top end plug 62 can include a though hole 102 configured to accept the pivot pin 100 therethrough.

[0066] Referring to Fig. 6, each bottom end plug 50 of each support pole 26 preferably has a socket 104 which is adapted to receive the bottom end of the bottom pole segment 34, for example the bottom of the bottom tubing 44. On the opposite end, the plug 50 has a base 106 which preferably has an elongated shape to increased stability. The base 106 is generally perpendicular to the socket 104 such that the bottom end plug 50 has a generally inverted T shape. The base 106 can include a slot 108 therethrough which is adapted for connecting the frame 12 with the enclosure 14 via awebbing loop (e.g., a strap). Gussets 110 may be added between the socket 104 and the base 106 for added stability and reinforcement. The inverted T design of the bottom end plug 50 is also operable to connect additional components of the tent system like the ground cover 52 via straps.

[0067] Referring to Fig. 7, the top end plug 68 of the rain fly pole 28 is configured to connect the rain fly pole 28 to the hub 24, preferably in a permanent manner. The top end plug 68 has a socket 112 at a first end 114 which preferably extends substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis 116 of the top end plug 62 and which is adapted to receive and preferably permanently connect to a top end of the rain fly pole 28, for example a top end of the rain fly tubing 64. The top end plug 68 also includes a cam 118 at a second end120, which preferably extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 116. The top end plug 68 also preferably includes a pivot pin 122 disposed between the firstand second ends 114, 120, which pivot pin 122 preferably extends laterally outwardly from opposite sides of the top end plug 68. The top end plug 68 can include a though hole 124 configured to accept the pivot pin 122 therethrough. As can be appreciated, the top end plug 68 of the rain fly pole 28 can be similar in construction to the top end plug 62 of the top pole segment 38, particularly with respect to the socket 112 and pivot pin 122 but the configuration of the cam 118 can be distinct in the top end plug 68 of the rain fly pole 28.

[0068] Referring to Figs. 8-11 , the hub 24 includes an inner hub 200 and an outer hub 202. The hub 24 has a hub axis 204 passing through a center of the hub 24 and centers of the inner and outer hubs 200, 202, which hub axis 204 is generally vertical in typical use, such as when the tent system is erected on a horizontal surface.

[0069] The inner hub 200 can include a bottom inner hub 206 and a top inner hub 208 which is preferably affixed to the bottom inner hub 206, for example by fasteners (not shown) which can be, for example mechanical fasteners(e.g., screws or bolts, etc.) or another suitable fastener. The inner hub 200 has an interior 210 which is partially enclosed by the bottom and top inner hubs.

[0070] The bottom inner hub 206 preferably includes a plurality of cutouts 212 disposed radially around the bottom inner hub 206, where each cutout 212 is adapted to receive the socket 92 of a top end plug 62 and each cutout 212 preferably includes a pair of recesses 214 disposed on opposite sides of the cutout 212 which are adapted to receive and pivotally support opposing ends of the pivot pin 100 of the top end plug 62 to permit the pivoting of the top end plug 62 relative to the inner hub 200 about an axis of the pivot pin 100. Each cutout 212 is preferably configured to permit downward pivoting movement of the associated top end plug 62 relative to the inner hub 200 and to limit such downward pivoting movement to, for example, parallel to the hub axis 204 of the hub 24 (e.g., to a “six o’clock” position, if viewed from the side, such as vertical in a typical installation).

[0071] The top inner hub 210 is preferably fitted with cutouts 216 which are preferably disposed radially around the top inner hub 210 and are aligned with the cutouts 212 of the bottom inner hub 206, and are adapted to permit upward pivoting movement of the associated top end plug 62 relative to the inner hub 200 and to limit such upward pivoting movement to, for example, perpendicular to the hub axis 204 of the hub 24 (e.g., at a “three o’clock” or “nine o’clock” position, if viewed from the side, such as horizontal in a typical installation) wherein the sockets 92 of the top end plugs 62 extend radially outwardly from the inner hub 200.

[0072] The support poles 26 and rain fly pole(s) 28 are preferably permanently connected to the hub 24 and more specifically to the inner hub 210, preferably via the pivot pins 100, 122.

[0073] The inner hub 200 includes a drive element 218 disposed within the interior 208. The drive element 218 preferably has a through hole 219 havinga center which is aligned with the hub axis 204, and the through hole 219 preferably has a cross section as taken perpendicular to the hub axis 204 which is non-circular, such as a hexagonal or keyed shape. The drive element 218 is operable to move (e.g., translate) along the hub axis 204 and is preferably biased toward the top inner hub 210 for example by a spring 220 (e.g., a coil spring) disposed between the drive element 218 and the bottom inner hub 206.

[0074] The drive element 218 includes a top surface 222 facing the top inner hub 210 and a bottom surface 224 facing the bottom inner hub 206. The cam 96 of the top end plug 62 of each support pole 26 is configured to engage the top surface 222 of the drive element 218 as each support pole 26 pivots upwardly, causing the drive element 218 to move downwardly along the hub axis 204 toward the bottom inner hub 206. The cam 118 of the top end plug 68 of each rain fly pole 28 is configured to engage the bottom surface 224 of the drive element 218 such that, as the drive element 218 moves downwardly toward the bottom inner hub 206, the drive element 218 bears on the cam 118 of the top end plug 28 and causes the rain fly pole 28 to pivot upwardly such that raising one or more of the support poles 26 causes the rain fly pole 28 to raise automatically.

[0075] The bottom surface 224 of the drive element is preferably substantially perpendicular to the hub axis 204 and is preferably in the shape of an arcuate wedge or partial sector, such as a partial pizza pie shape, for example having an arc substantially equal to the relative rotation of the inner and outer hubs 200, 202, such as about 20 degrees.

[0076] The top surface 222 of the drive element 218 preferably extends partially around a circumference of the drive element 218 from either side of the bottom surface 224 such that the top surface 222 preferably has an arc of 360 degrees less the arc of the bottom surface 224 (e.g., 340 degrees). The top surface 222 has an interior portion 226 which is partially annular andsubstantially perpendicular to the hub axis 204. The interior portion of the top surface 222 is preferably substantially co-planar with the bottom surface 224.

[0077] The top surface 222 preferably also has an exterior portion 228 disposed radially outwardly from the interior surface 226 and which aligned at a downward and radially outward angle (toward the bottom inner hub 206) relative to the interior surface 226 and hub axis 204 such that the interior and exterior portions of the top surface 222 form a partial frustoconical shape.

[0078] Each (or one of) the bottom inner hub 206 and the top inner hub 210 preferably includes a through hole 230, 232 each having a center falling on the hub axis 204.

[0079] The outer hub 202 preferably includes a bottom outer hub 234 and a top outer hub 236 which is preferably fixed to the bottom outer hub 234, for example by fasteners 238 which can be, for example mechanical fasteners 238 (e.g., screws or bolts, etc.) or other suitable fasteners. The outer hub 202 has an interior 240 which is partially enclosed by the bottom and top outer hubs.

[0080] The outer hub 202 preferably partially encloses the inner hub 200 within the interior 240 of the outer hub 202. The bottom outer hub 234 preferably has a plurality of sets of slots 242 and recesses 243 placed in a circular array around the outer hub 202. The top outer hub 236 preferably has a plurality of recesses 244 also placed in a circular array around the outer hub 202 which align with the plurality of sets of slots 242 and recesses 243 of the bottom outer hub 234. The sets of slots 242 and recesses 243 and the associated recess 244 cooperate to form a plurality of inverted L-shape channels 245 disposed in a circular array around the outer hub 202 (See also Figs 11 and 13A-13C). Each inverted L-shape channel 245 preferably has a vertical portion (e.g., parallel to the hub axis 204 of the hub 24) connected to a horizontal portion and the where the vertical portion has an open end, and the horizontal portion has a closed end.

[0081] The vertical portion of each inverted L-shape channel 245 is configured to permit the associated top end plug 62, 68 to pivot around the associated pivot pin 100, 122 relative to the inner hub 202 from the six o’clock position (e.g., vertical, parallel to the hub axis 204) to the nine / three o’clock position (e.g., horizontal, perpendicular to the hub axis 204) while the horizontal portion of each inverted L-shape channel 245 is configured to permit the rotation of the outer hub 202 relative to the inner hub 200 by 360 / (3N) degrees, where “N” is the number of arrayed end plug elements (for example 20 degrees).

[0082] The outer hub 202 preferably has a post 246 which can be fixed to and extending upwardly from the bottom outer hub 234 into the interior 240 of the outer hub 202. The post 246 preferably has a longitudinal axis which is aligned (e.g., coaxial) with the hub axis 204 and the post 246 is preferably configured to permit and guide the vertical movement of the drive element 218 along the hub axis 204. The post 246 extends into, and preferably through, the inner hub 200 via one or both of the through holes 230, 232 of the inner hub 20, and preferably extends through the spring 220 and the through hole 219 of the drive element 218. The post 246 preferably has a cross section as taken perpendicular to the hub axis which is non-circular, such as a hexagonal shape, which is complimentary to the corresponding non-circular cross section of the through hole 219 of the drive element 218 such that the drive element 218 rotates about the hub axis 204 with the outer hub 202, relative to the inner hub 200.

[0083] A top of the enclosure 14 is disposed below the hub 24 and is preferably connected to and supported by hub, such as the bottom outer hub 234. For example, the bottom outer hub 234 can include an eyelet or loop (not shown). A cord can be attached to the hub and the enclosure 14 to support the enclosure. Optionally, the cord can extend into an interior of the enclosure to enable the attachment of various objects like flashlight, fan, etc., e.g., via a carabiner. Accessories like a bag with stakes and wind lines canalso be connected to the cord and stored when the tent is in packed configuration.

[0084] The hub 24 preferably includes a plurality of (e.g., three) external posts 248 extending from a top of the hub 24, such as from the top outer hub 236. The external posts 248 are preferably positioned in a radial array around the hub axis 204, although other configurations are suitable. A hub cover 250 is preferably connected to the outer hub 202 with fasteners 252 (such as screws or another suitable fastening mechanism) directed into external posts 248. Hub cover cap 254 is preferably press fit into a top of hub cover 250 to hide fasteners 252.

[0085] The hub cover 250 is preferably rigidly connected to the top outer hub 236 such that rotational movement of the hub cover 250 is operable to cause rotation of the outer hub 202 relative to the inner hub 200 as described further herein. The hub cover 250 preferably has recesses 256 disposed in a circular array therearound which are designed for a better ergonomic grip of the hub 24 by the installer when pushing and twisting the hub 24 for setup or takedown. Between recesses 256 there are radial projections 258 (e.g., picks) which extend radially outwardly from the hub 24 (e.g., horizontally). The radial projections 258 and recesses 256 form an ergonomic grip 276 which provides both a secure hand hold as well as a mechanical advantage to rotate the hub during use. The projections 258 are preferably provided with holes 260 which can be used for attaching an array of anchor or winds lines to the tent, for example with carabiners.

[0086] The connection between outer hub 202 and hub cover 250 is operable to connect the rain fly 22 to the frame 12 above the enclosure 14. Preferably, the rain fly 22 is sandwiched between top outer hub 236 and the hub cover 250. The rain fly 22 can include a plurality of holes 262 aligned with the external posts 248 of the outer hub 202. An O-ring 264 is preferably used toseal this connection to prevent the ingress of water between the rain fly 22 and the enclosure 14.

[0087] Referring to Figs. 19A and 19B, a rain fly bag 266 can be connected (e.g., sandwiched) under the rain fly 22 using holes 268, for example between the hub 24 (or more specifically the top outer hub 236) and the rain fly 22. The rain fly bag 266 can be used to collect and store the rain fly 22 when is not in use. The rain fly bag 266 is operable to contain and enclose the rain fly 22 therein in a collapsed form above and supported by the hub 24. The rain fly bag 266 preferably includes a closure, such as a draw string.

[0088] Referring to Fig. 12, a twist connector 270 can be used to connect and adjust the periphery of the rain fly 22 with the frame 12, for example with the support poles 26, preferably the bottom pole segments 34 of the frame 12. A hook shaped element 272 of the twist connector 270 snaps on or off and slides along the bottom pole segment 34 while the periphery of the rain fly 22 is attached to the connector 270 using a slot 274 via a loop which can consist of hook and loop tape. For example, a hook section of the loop can be sewn or otherwise fixed to the rain fly 22 while the loop section can be inserted through slot 274. Slot 274 is preferably positioned parallel to the axis of hook 272.

[0089] Referring to Figs.13A - 16A and 23A - 23E, the hub 24 has three primary states or positions: (1) a stored position (A) (Fig. 13A, 14A / B, 23A), (2) an intermediate position (B) (deployed, unlocked), (Fig. 13B, 15A / B, 23B) and (3) a deployed locked position (C) (Fig. 13C, Fig 16A / B, 23C). In the stored position (A), the end plugs 62, 68 are aligned parallel to the hub axis 204 (e.g., vertically, in the six o’clock orientation) and the outer hub 202 is at a first (non-rotated) angular position relative to the inner hub 200, for example 0 degrees relative rotation. In the intermediate position (B), the end plugs 62, 68 are pivoted upward relative to the stored position and project radially outwardly from the hub 24, for example they can be aligned perpendicular ornearly perpendicular to the hub axis 24 (e.g., horizontal or substantially horizontal (such as within 10 degrees of horizontal), in the three / nine o’clock position), and the outer hub 202 is preferably in the same non-rotated angular position relative to the inner hub 200. In the deployed locked position (C), the outer hub 202 is in a second (fully rotated) angular relative to the inner hub 200 (e g., 20 degrees clockwise as viewed from above) about the hub axis 24 and each end plug 62, 68 (and specifically the socket 92, 112 thereof) is thereby disposed within the horizontal portion of the associated inverted L-shape channel, thereby locking the end plug in the horizontal (nine / three o’clock) position.

[0090] The hub 24 can have a first transition position (D) (Figs.17A / B, 23D) between the stored position (A) and the intermediate position (B), wherein the outer hub 202 is at the first (non-rotated) angular position (e.g., 0 degrees rotation) relative to the inner hub 200 and the end plugs 62, 68 are aligned downwardly and radially outwardly at an angle between perpendicular and parallel to the hub axis 204, for example 45 degrees from the hub axis 204. The hub 24 can have a second transition position (E) (Fig. 23E) between the intermediate position (B) and the deployed locked position (C), wherein the end plugs 62, 68 are pivoted upward as in the intermediate potion (B), for example they can be aligned perpendicular or nearly perpendicular to the hub axis 24 (e.g., horizontal or substantially horizontal (such as within 10 degrees of horizontal), in the three / nine o’clock position), and the outer hub 202 is preferably in an intermediate rotated position between the first (non-rotated) angular position and the fully rotated position

[0091] Referring to Figs. 2 and 18, when installing or erecting the tent system 10, the top end plugs 62, 68 are pivoted 90 degrees (or nearly 90 degrees) from the vertical (six o’clock) stored position (A) to the horizontal (nine / three o’clock) or nearly horizontal intermediate position (B), and when in the horizontal / nearly horizontal position, the outer hub 430 can be rotated to lock the top end plugs 62, 68 (and frame 12 connected thereto) in place, in thedeployed position (C). In the stored position (A), the end plugs 62, 68 will preferably remain in the vertical (six o’clock) position and the frame 12can be folded and packed with the joints 40, 42 closed at 0 degrees (Fig 2, right).

[0092] To set up the tent, for each support pole 26, the installer can unfold the middle pole segment 36 together with the bottom pole segment 34 at 90 degrees relative to the top pole segment 38 (steps A & B) and then can unfold the bottom pole segment 34 at 180 degrees relative to the middle pole segment 36 respectively (Step C, Fig 2, left). In addition, the installer can unfold middle pole segment 36 at 180 degrees relative to the top pole segment 38 at which point each support pole 28 can be in a straight unfolded configuration, for example with the respective bottom, middle and top pole segments aligned and coaxial. Then, with the installer’s assistance, the frame 12 and enclosure 14 deploys into a pyramid shape. By putting downward vertical pressure (by the installer) on the top of the hub 24, hub 24 moves downwardly and the support poles 26 bow outward causing the enclosure 14 attached thereto to shape into a dome shape with the canopy 20 of the enclosures in an elevated position, and causing the top end plugs 62, 68 of the support poles 26 and rain fly pole(s) 28 to pivot upwardly and radially outwardly hub 24, for example to horizontal (or nearly horizontal), at which time the installer can manually rotate the outer hub 202 and hub cover 250 clockwise (e.g., 20 degrees) relative to the inner hub 200 and frame 12 to locked the tent system in place. To strike (store) the tent follow the above steps in reverse (i.e., downward force and opposite (for example counterclockwise) rotation of the outer hub to unlock the frame 12 and collapse the tent.

[0093] Referring to Figs 20-22, a second embodiment of the tent system 10 can have an alternative design for the hub 1024 and the top end plugs 1062 as described below, although all other features of the tent system 10 can remain as described above with respect to the first embodiment.

[0094] The hub 1024 can include an inner hub 1200 and an outer hub 1202. The hub 1024 has a hub axis 1204 passing through a center of the hub 1024 and centers of the inner and outer hubs 1200, 1202, which hub axis 1204 is generally vertical in typical use, such as when the tent system is erected on a horizontal surface.

[0095] The inner hub 1200 can include a bottom inner hub 1206 and a top inner hub 1208 which is preferably affixed to the bottom inner hub 1206, for example by fasteners (not shown) which can be, for example mechanical fasteners (e.g., screws or bolts, etc.) or another suitable fastener. The inner hub 1200 has an interior 1208 which is partially enclosed by the bottom and top inner hubs.

[0096] Each (or one of) the bottom inner hub 1206 and the top inner hub 1210 preferably includes a through hole 1230, 1232 each having a center falling on the hub axis 1204.

[0097] The outer hub 1202 preferably includes a bottom outer hub 1234 and a top outer hub 1236 which is preferably fixed to the bottom outer hub 1234, for example by fasteners 1238 which can be, for example mechanical fasteners (e.g., screws or bolts, etc.) or other suitable fasteners. The outer hub 1202 has an interior 1240 which is partially enclosed by the bottom and top outer hubs. The outer hub 1202 preferably partially encloses the inner hub 1200 within the interior 1240 of the outer hub 1202.

[0098] The outer hub 1202 preferably has a post 1246 which can be fixed to and extending upwardly from the bottom outer hub 1234 into the interior 1240 of the outer hub 1202. The post 1246 preferably has a longitudinal axis which is aligned (e.g., coaxial) with the hub axis 1204 and the post 1246. The post 246 preferably extends into, and preferably through, the inner hub 1200 via one or both of the through holes 1230, 1232 of the inner hub 20. The post 1246 preferably has a cross section as taken perpendicular to the hub axis which is circular.

[0099] The top end plugs 1062 of each support pole 26 and rain fly pole 28 preferably have the same construction and are configured to connect to the hub 1024. The top end plug 1062 has first and second ends 1094, 1098 and has a socket 1092 at the first end 1094 which preferably extends substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis 1095 of the top end plug 1062 and which is adapted to receive and preferably permanently connect to a top end of the associated support pole 26 or rain fly pole 28.[001 oo] The top end plug 1062 also preferably includes a pivot pin 1100 disposed between the first and second ends 1094, 1098, which pivot pin 1100 preferably extends laterally outwardly from opposite sides of the top end plug 1062. The top end plug 1062 can include a though hole 1102 configured to accept the pivot pin 1100 therethrough.

[0101] Each top end plug 1062 also includes a pinion section 1085 on the second end 1098. The pinion sections 1085 of the top end plugs 1062 all engage a common central rack 1300 to ensure unison pivoting of the top end plugs 1062 and poles connected thereto (preferably over about 90 degrees). The rack 1300 is preferably annular or tubular in shape having a series of circumferential teeth on an exterior surface thereof which are engaged by the pinion sections 1085 of the top end plugs 1062. A longitudinal axis of the rack 1300 is preferably aligned with the hub axis 1204 of the hub 1024 and the rack 1300 is adapted for vertical translation parallel to the hub axis 1204 relative to the inner hub 1200 during pivoting of the top end plugs 1062. The rack 1300 can also have a substantially smooth (e.g., cylindrical) interior surface or other suitable shape adapted to allow for smooth translation of the rack relative to the inner hub 1200.

[0102] The unison pivoting of the top end plugs 1062 (for example over 90 degrees) is also aided by a spring 1220 which is disposed between the top inner hub 1210 and the rack 1300. The spring 1220 is adapted to bear downwardly on the rack 1300, preferably around a circumference thereof andto bias and urge the rack downwardly, toward a lower limit rest position, wherein the top end plugs 1062 (and rods connected thereto) extend radially outwardly from hub 1024, which corresponds to an erected configuration of the tent (i.e., the “nine o’clock / three o’clock” position). However, a strength of the spring 1220 may be selected such that additional user force is required to articulate the hub 1024.

[0103] Preferably, the post 1246 of the outer hub 1202 extends through the rack 1300 and the spring 1220 and is sized and shaped to smoothly guide the rack 1300 and spring 1220 during translation movement of the rack 1300 along the hub axis 1204, and such that rack 1300 preferably does not rotate about the hub axis 1204 with the outer hub 1202, during rotation of the outer hub 1202 about the hub axis 1204 relative to the inner hub 1200.

[0104] As in the first embodiment, in the second embodiment the bottom inner hub 1206 preferably includes a plurality of cutouts 1212 disposed radially around the bottom inner hub 1206, where each cutout 1212 is adapted to receive the socket 1092 of a top end plug 1062 and each cutout 1212 preferably includes a pair of recesses 1214 disposed on opposite sides of the cutout 1212 which are adapted to receive and pivotally support opposing ends of the pivot pin 1100 of the top end plug 1062 to permit the pivoting of the top end plug 1062 relative to the inner hub 1200 about an axis of the pivot pin 1100. Each cutout 1212 is preferably configured to permit downward pivoting movement of the associated top end plug 1062 relative to the inner hub 1200 and to limit such downward pivoting movement to, for example, parallel to the hub axis 1204 of the hub 1024 (e.g., to a “six o’clock” position, if viewed from the side, such as vertical in a typical installation).

[0105] The top inner hub 1210 is preferably fitted with cutouts 1216 which are preferably disposed radially around the top inner hub 1210 and are aligned with the cutouts 1212 of the bottom inner hub 1206, and are adapted to permit upward pivoting movement of the associated top end plug 1062 relative to theinner hub 1200 and to limit such upward pivoting movement to, for example, perpendicular to the hub axis 1204 of the hub 1024 (e.g., at a “three o’clock” or “nine o’clock” position, if viewed from the side, such as horizontal in a typical installation) wherein the sockets 1092 of the top end plugs 1062 extend radially outwardly from the inner hub 1200.

[0106] The bottom outer hub 1234 preferably has a plurality of sets of slots 1242 and recesses 1243 placed in a circular array around the outer hub 1202. The top outer hub 1236 preferably has a plurality of recesses 1244 also placed in a circular array around the outer hub 1202 which align with the plurality of sets of slots 1242 and recesses 1243 of the bottom outer hub 1234. The sets of slots 1242 and recesses 1243 and the associated recess 1244 cooperate to form a plurality of inverted L-shape channels 1245 (See Figs. 13A-13C) disposed in a circular array around the outer hub 1202. Each inverted L-shape channel 1245 preferably has a vertical portion (e.g., parallel to the hub axis 1204 of the hub 1024) connected to a horizontal portion and the where the vertical portion has an open end, and the horizontal portion has a closed end.

[0107] The vertical portion of each inverted L-shape channel 1245 is configured to permit the associated top end plug 1062 to pivot around the associated pivot pin 1100, 1122 relative to the inner hub 1202 from the six o’clock position (e.g., vertical, parallel to the hub axis 1204) to the nine / three o’clock position (e.g., horizontal, perpendicular to the hub axis 1204) while the horizontal portion of each inverted L-shape channel 1245 is configured to permit the rotation of the outer hub 1202 relative to the inner hub 1200 by 360 / (3N) degrees, where “N” is the number of arrayed end plug elements (for example 20 degrees).

[0108] Although the invention has been described with reference to a particular arrangement of parts, features and the like, these are not intendedto exhaust all possible arrangements or features, and indeed many other modifications and variations will be ascertainable to those of skill in the art.

Claims

What is claimed:

1. A collapsible tent for use on a support surface, comprising:an enclosure having a bottom with a floor and having a canopy extending upwardly from the bottom;a frame having a hub and a plurality of support poles, and the frame being operable to support the canopy in an elevated position above the floor of the enclosure;the support poles being disposed around a periphery of the hub;each support pole having at least one joint operable to allow the support pole to transition between a folded position for storage and an unfolded position for supporting the canopy in the elevated position;each support pole having a lower end connected to the bottom of the enclosure and an upper end connected to the hub;the hub having a hub axis passing through a center of the hub, and the hub axis being substantially perpendicular to the support surface;the hub having an outer hub and an inner hub disposed at least partially within the inner hub;the upper end of each support pole being pivotally connected to the inner hub and being operable to pivot relative to the inner hub about a pivot axis substantially perpendicular to the hub axis between a retracted position substantially parallel to the hub axis and an extended position projecting radially outwardly from the hub;the outer hub being configured to selectively rotate relative to the inner hub about the hub axis between an unlocked position and a locked position; in the locked position of the outer hub, the upper end of each support pole being locked in the extended position; andin the unlocked position of the outer hub, the upper end of each pole being operable to transition between the extended and retracted positions.

2. The collapsible tent as in claim 1 , wherein:in the extended position, the upper end of each support pole is substantially perpendicular to the hub axis.

3. The collapsible tent as in claim 1 , wherein:in an unfolded state each support pole being configured to bow outwardly upon downward force on the hub whereby the upper end of each support pole pivots into the extended position.

4. The collapsible tent as in claim 1 , further comprising:a rain fly disposed over the enclosure;a rain fly pole having bottom free end configured to connect with the rain fly and having an upper end pivotally connected to the inner hub and being operable to pivot relative to the inner hub about a pivot axis substantially perpendicular to the hub axis between a retracted position substantially parallel to the hub axis and an extended position projecting radially outwardly from the hub; andthe hub being configured such that pivoting movement of one or more of the support poles into the extended position causes pivoting movement of the rain fly pole into the extended position.

5. The collapsible tent as in claim 4, wherein:the hub includes a drive element configured to translate along the hub axis upon pivoting movement of one or more of the support poles into the extended position; andthe drive element being operable to translate pivoting movement of the one or more support poles into the extended position into pivoting movement of the rain fly pole into the extended position.

6. The collapsible tent as in claim 5, wherein:the hub includes a spring operable to bias drive element and to bias the support poles and the rain fly pole in the retracted position.

7. The collapsible tent as in claim 1 , further comprising:the enclosure being connected to a bottom of the hub;a rain fly connected to the hub above the enclosure;a rain fly bag connected to the hub between the rain fly and the enclosure;the rain fly bag being operable to contain and enclose the rain fly in a collapsed form above and supported by the hub.

8. The collapsible tent as in claim 1 , further comprising:an ergonomic grip connected to a top of the hub;the ergonomic grip having a plurality of radial projections and recesses disposed around the grip providing a secure hand hold and a mechanical advantage for rotating the hub during use.

9. The collapsible tent as in claim 8, wherein:each radial projection of the ergonomic grip includes a through hole operable for connection to a wind line for securing the tent to the support surface.

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