Improved inflation valve assembly

Abstract

NOT VISIBLE DUE TO STATUS OF PATENT

Description

[0001] Improved Inflation Valve Assembly

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to an improved inflation valve assembly comprising a valve key. In particular, the present invention relates to a first inflatable camping assembly comprising a first inflation valve, a second inflatable camping assembly comprising a second inflation valve and a valve key.

[0004] BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0005] Tents, folding campers such as camper trailers, and camping accessories such as awnings or gazebos may be complex or time consuming to erect, for example when these structures have to be assembled from a number of parts. Such parts may be easily damaged during assembly or in use, for instance by impacts or high winds. To address these problems, these structures may comprise inflatable parts, which allow the structures to be erected by inflating the inflatable parts using a source of pressurised air, such as a pump.

[0006] The inflatable assemblies may include several inflation valves with individual stoppers / sealing arrangements. Such stoppers have to be manually placed and secured within the inflation valve to allow for the inflation of the assembly. Accordingly, users may need to check that all of the inflation valves are correctly closed prior to inflating the assembly. With large camping assemblies it can be difficult to lay out the deflated assembly and locate all of the inflation valves in order to check that they are closed. This may delay the erecting of the camping assembly which may be during a period of bad weather, e.g. raining where internal walls / surfaces may become wet. In addition, it may be easy to miss an inflation valve and to commence inflating the assembly which will lead to air simultaneously escaping as the assembly is inflated. This is inefficient and may take time for the user to realise what is happening. This can be especially problematic with a new or unfamiliar camping assembly where’re the user will not be aware of the location or number of inflation valves. The use of a single inflation / deflation valve may result in a user being able to ensure that no air escape during inflation but this may result in a prolonger deflation period since the air will only be able to escape from a single location. Furthermore, air is more likely to be trapped such that the deflated assembly is not easy to pack up in a compact arrangement and / or into the dedicated bag / container.

[0007] In addition, inflation valves generally provide a universal inflation valve which may try and accommodate any or a number of inflation devices / pumps. However, the attempt to accommodate a variety of such attachments may be detrimental to the seal and retention of the inflation devices to the inflation valve and, specifically, the seal between pump adaptors and the inflation valve. A user may be required to continuously hold the adaptor within the valve or may need to periodically push the adaptor back into the inflation valve to maintain an open air pathway.

[0008] A disadvantage of using inflatable parts is that a pump or other source of pressurised air must be taken to a camping location by a user. For larger inflatable structures (such as an inflatable family tent) a manually operated pump may not be practical, meaning that a powered (e.g. electric) pump and source of power are also required, which may be bulky and / or noisy. Also, where a number of inflatable structures are used, a standalone source of pressurised air is required, which must be compatible to connect to each inflatable structure in turn.

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to overcome at least one problem associated with the prior art, whether referred to herein or otherwise.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided an inflation valve assembly comprising: a first inflation valve comprising: an inlet; an outlet; and a seal member which is movable between an open position and a closed position, the seal member comprising a seal to prevent or allow air flow through inflation valve between the inlet and the outlet; a second inflation valve comprising: an inlet; an outlet; and a seal member which is movable between an open position and a closed position, the seal member comprising a seal to prevent or allow air flow through inflation valve between the inlet and the outlet; a valve key; wherein the valve key is configured to be docked with the inlet of the first inflation valve and the valve key is configured to be docked with the second inflation valve, the valve key being in an operative position when the valve key is docked with both the first and second inflation valves; wherein both the seal members of the first and second inflation valves move to the open position when the valve key is positioned in the operative position and, and in the operative position the seal members of both the first and second inflation valves are maintained in the open position to create an air pathway through the inflation valve assembly between the first inflation valve and the second inflation valve.

[0012] Preferably the valve key is in a non-operative position when the valve key is docked with the first inflation valve and is undocked from the second inflation valve. Preferably in the non-operative position the seal member of the first inflation valve remains in position and is preferably unmoved (for example, by docking the valve key with the first inflation valve). Preferably the seal member of the first inflation valve remains or is maintained in a closed position in the non-operative position. Preferably the docking of the valve key with the first inflation valve to position the valve key in the non-operative position causes the seal member of the first inflation valve to remain (and or to be maintained) in a closed position. Preferably the seal member of the first inflation valve is biased away from the open position and towards the closed position by bias means. Preferably the seal member of the second inflation valve is biased away from the open position and towards the closed position by bias means.

[0013] Preferably the valve key is configured to move both the seal members of the first and second inflation valves to the open position when in the operative position.

[0014] Preferably, in the operative position, the valve key maintains the seal members of both the first and second inflation valves in the open position to create an air pathway through the inflation valve assembly between the first inflation valve and the second inflation valve.

[0015] Preferably when the valve key is only docked with one inflation valve (and preferably is undocked with the other inflation valve) the seal member of that inflation valve is maintained in a closed position. Preferably when the valve key is only docked with the first inflation valve (and preferably is undocked with the second inflation valve) the seal member of the first inflation valve is maintained in a closed position. Preferably when the valve key is only docked with the second inflation valve (and preferably is undocked with the first inflation valve) the seal member of the second inflation valve is maintained in a closed position.

[0016] Preferably engagement means are arranged to engage the valve key in the docked position relative to both the first and second inflation valves.

[0017] Preferably in the operative position the valve key maintains the seal members of both the first and second inflation valves in the open position to create an air pathway through the inflation valves between the inlet (and / or outlet) of the first inflation valve and the inlet (and / or outlet) of the second inflation valve.

[0018] The valve key may have a substantially circular docking face and preferably comprise a first substantial circular docking face and a second substantially circular docking face.

[0019] The valve key may comprise a disc member and preferably comprise a first disc member and a second disc member.

[0020] The valve key may comprise a cylindrical body. The valve key may comprise a partition member having a series of openings defined therethrough. Preferably the valve key comprises a first partition member and a second partition member each having a series of openings defined therethrough. The openings may be defined (evenly) spaced around a respective (central) aperture. The first and / or second partition member may comprise spokes which project radially from a central hub.

[0021] The valve key may have a first face for connection with the first inflation valve and a second face for connection to a second inflation valve.

[0022] The valve key may comprise a seal member or two seal members to create a seal against the or each inflation valve. Preferably the docking of the valve key with the inlet of the or each inflation valve causes the respective seal member(s) to create a seal between the or each inflation valve and the valve key.

[0023] The valve key may comprise a first docking face and a second docking face on opposing sides of the valve key. Each docking face may be shaped and / or dimensioned to dock with an inlet of different sized and / or shaped inflation valves.

[0024] The valve key may comprise two seal members which may be provided on each docking face of the valve key.

[0025] The or each inflation valve may comprise latching means (or blocking means) to retain the seal member in the open position or in a second open position. Preferably the latching means prevents the seal member from moving to the closed position and, in this position, the bias means continues to bias the seal member towards the closed position. The latching means may be manually operable and may enable a user to press a part of the seal member in order for the seal member to be engaged with the latching means which preferably subsequently retains the seal member in the open position or in a second open position. The latching means may be manually operable from the latched position to be unlatched by a user pressing a part of the seal member in order for the seal member to disengage with the latching means which subsequently enables the seal member to move to the closed position. The latching means may comprise a latch which may comprise a ring component. The ring component may engage with a profiled surface provided on a first section of a restrictor and a second section of the restrictor. The or each profiled surface may comprise a series of gaps or recesses for the ring (or a part of the ring) to engage within in order to engage or disengage the seal member in a latched (open or second open) position. The latching means is not operable by the valve key. Preferably the latching means is not operated by the docking of the valve key within the inflation valve. Preferably the valve key only moves the restrictor partially towards the latching means such that the latching means is not able to latch the seal member and the seal member may remain unlatched.

[0026] The or each inflation valve may comprise a restrictor to limit the movement of the seal member away from an opening of the outlet of the inflation valve. Accordingly, the seal member may be limited to move between a sealing surface and the restrictor. The seal member may be limited in a first direction by a sealing surface and by the restrictor in the second (opposite) direction. The restrictor may comprise an opening or a series of openings to allow air to flow therethrough.

[0027] The bias means may comprise a spring bias arrangement comprising spring means to bias the seal member towards the closed position.

[0028] The bias means (spring means) may comprise a shaft portion of the seal member which locates within a pathway defined in the inflation valve. The shaft portion may have an increasing diameter which is moved into the pathway as the seal member is moved to the open position such that the pathway urges the shaft back to the closed position on removal of the movement force.

[0029] The bias means may comprise a (single) coiled spring which may locate between a proximal (upper) facing surface of the carrier and a distal (lower) facing surface of the restrictor.

[0030] The spring may comprise a resiliently deformable member.

[0031] The spring may locate around a central core of the carrier. Accordingly, the spring bias arrangement may retain the seal member in the closed position unless a counteracting force is greater than the spring strength of the spring bias arrangement.

[0032] The seal member may comprise a core member. The core member may comprise a central core of the carrier. The core member may be connected to or integral with the carrier and is arranged to move the seal from a closed position to an open position. The core member may comprise a shaft which extends from the carrier to an actuating end. The inflation valve may comprise bias means comprising a spring (coiled spring) which locates between the actuating end and a distal surface of the inflation valve. The actuating end may comprise an abutment surface or abutment face. The abutment face may be arranged to contact a contact surface or contact face provided by the valve key. The contact face of the valve key may be arranged to contact the abutment face when moving the seal member to an open position and / or when retaining the seal member in an open position. The contact face may comprise an end face provided by an actuator member of the valve key.

[0033] The valve key may comprise an actuator member. The actuator member may be moveably retained in the valve key. The valve key may comprise a cylindrical housing and / or sleeve section defining a pathway therethrough.

[0034] The actuator member may comprise a longitudinal component with a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end. The first longitudinal end may provide a first contact face to actuate the (core member of) first inflation valve and the second longitudinal end may provide a second contact face to actuate the (core member of) the second inflation valve. The actuator member may be retained in the valve key and limited to movement a long a longitudinal axis of the valve key and preferably a central longitudinal axis of the valve key.

[0035] The valve key may comprise a first partition surface and a second partition surface. The first partition surface may be provided by a first partition member and the second partition surface may be provided by a second partition member. The valve key may define a retaining gap between the first partition member and the second partition member. The actuator member may comprise a retaining section which is restrained for movement between the first partition member and the second partition member. A part or section of the actuator member may be arranged to extend from the first partition member and another part or section of the actuator may be arranged to extend for the second partition member.

[0036] The valve key may comprise a biasing assembly to urge the actuator to a default position. The biasing assembly may comprise a spring and preferably comprises a first spring and a second spring. The first spring may bias the first contact(ing) end (face) back towards the default position and the second spring may bias the second contact(ing) end (face) back towards the default position. Preferably in the default position, the first spring and the second spring cancel each other out.

[0037] In the default position, a first contact face and the second contact face are positioned ready for contacting an abutment face of the first inflation valve and / or an abutment face of the second inflation valve. Preferably contact between an abutment face with one contact face moves the actuator member away from the default position and maintains the seal member in a closed position. Preferably contact between both abutments faces with both contact faces moves the actuator to or towards the default position and moves both seal members to an open position. Preferably contact between both abutment faces with both contact faces retains and / or maintains both seal members in an open position.

[0038] The docking arrangement may comprise one or more engagement recesses or openings and corresponding engagement tabs. The or each engagement recess / opening may be provided in the first inflation valve and in the second inflation valve. Preferably the or each engagement recess / opening is provided in the housing of the first inflation valve and in the housing of the second inflation valve. The housing of the first inflation valve may comprise two engagement openings to engage with two engagement tabs and preferably the two engagement opening are offset 180 degrees relative to each other around the (cylindrical) housing of the first inflation valve. The valve key may comprise first engagement means for engaging with the first inflation valve and may comprise second engagement means for engaging with the second inflation valve. The first engagement means may comprise a first set of engagement tabs and preferably comprise two engagement tabs which may be offset 180 degrees relative to each other around a (cylindrical) housing of the valve key. Preferably the first set of tabs are provided towards a first end of (the cylindrical housing of) the valve key. The second engagement means may comprise a second set of engagement tabs and preferably comprise two engagement tabs which may be offset 180 degrees relative to each other around a (cylindrical) housing of the valve key. Preferably the second set of tabs are provided towards a second end of (the cylindrical housing of) the valve key. Preferably the engagement tabs comprise resilient tabs.

[0039] The docking arrangement may comprise a bayonet mechanism. The inflation valve may comprise one or two or more slots for engagement with one or two or more lugs provided on an external / outer surface of the valve key. The docking arrangement may comprise a screw thread mechanism. One of the valve key or the first inflation valve and / or the second inflation valve may comprise a male screw thread and the other of the valve key or the first inflation valve and / or the second inflation valve may comprise a female screw thread.

[0040] The docking arrangement may comprise an interference fit. The seal member may comprise a disc having a sealing surface defined around an outer periphery or circumference. A proximal (upper) surface of the seal member may comprise a sealing material, for example an elastomeric. The proximal (upper) surface may be arranged to be lowered (or moved) away from a sealing surface to enable air to flow between an opening for the outlet through the or each opening and out of the inlet.

[0041] The default configuration of the inflation valve is a closed configuration.

[0042] According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a camping assembly comprising a first inflatable camping assembly, a second inflatable camping assembly and an inflation valve assembly comprising: a first inflation valve on the first inflatable camping assembly, the first inflation valve comprising: an inlet; an outlet; and a seal member which is movable between an open position and a closed position, the seal member comprising a seal to prevent or allow air flow through inflation valve between the inlet and the outlet; a second inflation valve on the second inflatable camping assembly, the second inflation valve comprising: an inlet; an outlet; and a seal member which is movable between an open position and a closed position, the seal member comprising a seal to prevent or allow air flow through inflation valve between the inlet and the outlet; a valve key; wherein the valve key is configured to be docked with the inlet of the first inflation valve and the valve key is configured to be docked with the second inflation valve, the valve key being in an operative position when the valve key is docked with both the first and second inflation valves; wherein both the seal members of the first and second inflation valves move to the open position when the valve key is positioned in the operative position and, and in the operative position the seal members of both the first and second inflation valves are maintained in the open position to create an air pathway through the inflation valve assembly between the first inflation valve and the second inflation valve.

[0043] Preferably the seal member of the first inflation valve is biased away from the open position and towards the closed position by bias means. Preferably the seal member of the second inflation valve is biased away from the open position and towards the closed position by bias means. Preferably latching means may latch the seal member (of the first and / or second inflation valve) in the open position or in a second open position.

[0044] Preferably, in the operative position, the valve key maintains the seal members of both the first and second inflation valves in the open position to create an air pathway through the inflation valve assembly between the first inflation valve and the second inflation valve.

[0045] Preferably the seal member of the first inflation valve is biased away from the closed position and towards the open position by bias means. Preferably the seal member of the second inflation valve is biased away from the closed position and towards the open position by bias means. Preferably latching means may latch the seal member (of the first and / or second inflation valve) in the closed position or in a second open position.

[0046] The first and / or the second inflatable camping assembly may comprise an inflatable tent or awning or gazebo. The first and / or the second inflatable camping assembly may comprise an inflatable camper trailer tent.

[0047] The first and / or the second inflatable camping assembly may comprise a gazebo, a wind break, an auxiliary tent, an inflatable paddling pool, an inflatable ball, an inflatable mattress and / or an inflatable seat (such as chair or sofa).

[0048] According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of inflating an inflatable camping assembly, the inflation valve assembly comprising: a first inflation valve comprising: an inlet; an outlet; and a seal member which is movable between an open position and a closed position, the seal member comprising a seal to prevent or allow air flow through inflation valve between the inlet and the outlet; a second inflation valve comprising: an inlet; an outlet; and a seal member which is movable between an open position and a closed position, the seal member comprising a seal to prevent or allow air flow through inflation valve between the inlet and the outlet; a valve key; wherein the valve key is configured to be docked with the inlet of the first inflation valve and the valve key is configured to be docked with the second inflation valve, the valve key being in an operative position when the valve key is docked with both the first and second inflation valves; wherein both the seal members of the first and second inflation valves move to the open position when the valve key is positioned in the operative position and, and in the operative position the seal members of both the first and second inflation valves are maintained in the open position to create an air pathway through the inflation valve assembly between the first inflation valve and the second inflation valve; the method comprising: docking the valve key with the inlet of the first inflation valve and retaining the seal member of the first inflation valve in a closed position, and docking the valve key with the inlet of the second inflation valve and moving the seal members of both first inflation valve and the second inflation valve to an open position.

[0049] Preferably the seal member of the first inflation valve is biased away from the open position and towards the closed position by bias means. Preferably the seal member of the second inflation valve is biased away from the open position and towards the closed position by bias means.

[0050] Preferably, in the operative position, the valve key maintains the seal members of both the first and second inflation valves in the open position to create an air pathway through the inflation valve assembly between the first inflation valve and the second inflation valve.

[0051] The method may comprise inflating a second inflatable camping assembly (partially or solely and / or exclusively) with air from a first inflatable camping assembly. The method may comprise donating or supplying air from a first inflatable camping assembly through the first inflation valve, the valve key and then through the second inflation valve to a second inflatable camping assembly.

[0052] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0054] Figure 1 is a schematic side cross section of a preferred embodiment of an inflation valve;

[0055] Figure 2 is a schematic side cross section of a preferred embodiment of a valve key docked and engaged in a preferred embodiment of an inflation valve;

[0056] Figure 3 is a schematic side cross section of a preferred embodiment of an inflation valve assembly with a valve key docked and engaged between a first inflation valve and a second inflation valve; Figure 4 is a preferred embodiment of a sealing member / element;

[0057] Figure 5 is a cross section of a preferred embodiment of an inflation valve with the seal member retained in an open position;

[0058] Figure 6 is a schematic side cross section of a preferred embodiment of a valve key with an actuator member in a first position;

[0059] Figure 7 is a schematic side cross section of a preferred embodiment of a valve key with the actuator member in a second position;

[0060] Figure 8 is a schematic side cross section of another embodiment of a valve key with an actuator member in a first position; and

[0061] Figure 9 is a schematic side cross section of another embodiment of a valve key with the actuator member in a second position; and

[0062] Figure 10 is a side cross section of another embodiment of an inflation valve.

[0063] DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0064] The present invention provides an inflation valve assembly 10 for an inflatable camping assembly which may comprise an awning, a tent or an inflatable camping accessory (mattress, chair, furniture etc.). The present invention provides an assembly for transferring and / or donating air between a first camping assembly and a second camping assembly, for example from a main inflatable tent to an inflatable awning. Each camping assembly includes an identical inflation valve and a valve key is arranged to be engaged between the two inflation valves. The valve key automatically opens both inflation valves and enables air to be transferred between the two camping assemblies. Specifically the valve key may equalise the pressure between the two camping assemblies. In some embodiments, the valve key may be configured to retain a minimum pressure within one camping assembly to prevent the collapse of the camping assembly as a result of donating air. The valve key is configured to be docked and engaged with a first inflation valve and this does not open the inflation valve. The valve key must be subsequently docked and engaged with the second valve in order to then open both the first inflation valve and the second inflation valve. This then creates a flow pathway between the two inflatable camping assemblies to allow air to be transferred and donated.

[0065] Each inflation valve also includes latching means to retain a seal member in the open position (or in a second open position). When latched, the latching means prevents the seal member from moving to the closed position and, in this position, the bias means continues to bias the seal member towards the closed position. Accordingly, when the valve key is not docked with the inflation valve, a user can manually latch the seal member in an open position to allow for easy deflation.

[0066] The inflation valve assembly comprises a first inflation valve 20 comprising an inlet 22 and an outlet 24 and a second inflation valve 30 comprising an inlet 32 and an outlet 34.

[0067] In order to inflate a first inflatable camping assembly, an air source in the form of a second inflatable camping assembly (a donor) is connected. Specifically the first inflation valve 20 is connected to the second inflation valve 30 via a valve key 60. For example, the first inflation valve 20 may be connected to a chamber (inner tube) provided within an air pole of a tent and the second inflation valve may be connected to a chamber (inner tube) provided within an air pole of an awning. The connection enables the tent to inflate (partially or completely) the awning.

[0068] Each inflation valve 20, 30 is identical. The inflation valve 20, 30 comprises a seal member 26, 36 which seals the air pathway between the inlet 22, 32 and the outlet 24, 34 to retain the air pressure within the respective chamber. However, each seal member 26, 36 is movable from this closed position to an open position. Only when the valve key 60 is connected between the two inflation valves 20, 30 are the seal members 26, 36 in an open position. Accordingly, the present invention provides a dedicated and specific valve key 60 which allows the authorised movement of the seal members 26, 36 from the closed position to the open position. Without the use of this valve key 60, the seal members 26 are retained in the closed position. This may prevent or deter the unauthorised deflation of the inflatable camping assembly. In addition, the retention of the valve key 60 between the two inflation valves 20, 30 enables and facilitates the equalising of the pressure between the camping assemblies by maintaining the seal members 26, 36 in the open position without the need to continuously manually manipulate a part of the inflation valves (e.g. manually holding a pump adaptor within the inflation valve). This arrangement may enable the pressure to be maintained over a prolonged period and to ensure that the camping assemblies are sufficiently inflated and / or equalised throughout the day and through differing conditions (e.g. during cold nights, hot days etc.). For example, only one of the camping assemblies may be required to have access to another air source (originating source) such as a pump. The air originating from the pump may be transferred to the second camping assembly via the first camping assembly.

[0069] As shown in Figure 1 to Figure 5, a preferred embodiment of the valve assembly 10 comprises a first inflation valve 20, a second inflation valve 30 and a dedicated valve key 60. The valve key 60 comprises an actuator 61 (formed as a longitudinal component) to move the seal members 26, 36 from the closed position to the open position. The valve key 60 and the inflation valves 20, 30 also include engagement means to engage and maintain the valve key 60 in a docked position relative to both the first inflation valve 20 and the second inflation valve 30. As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2, the airflow represented by line 90 is closed and retained within the inflatable camping assembly and does not pass through the inflation valve 20 due to the seal arrangement 29, 42. However, in Figure 3, the airflow is schematically represented by lines 92 which show that the air can freely flow through the first inflation valve 20, through the valve key 60 and through the second inflation valve 30 (or vice versa). This enables air to be transferred and donated between a first inflatable caping assembly (having the first inflation valve 20) and a second inflatable camping assembly (having the second inflation valve 30). The seal members 26, 36 of the inflation valves 20, 30 comprise a carrier 40, 50 and a restrictor 41 , 51 which secures the respective carrier 40, 50 within the respective inlet 22, 32. The seal members 26, 36 also comprise a seal which in this embodiment comprises a primary seal 42, 52. The primary seals 42, 52 comprise annular seals (e.g. elastomeric O-ring seals) which are arranged to seal against respective sealing surfaces 29, 39 defined around opening 25, 35 of the outlets 24, 34. In the closed position, the primary seals 42, 52 seal against the sealing surfaces 29, 39 provided by a valve housing 28, 38 of the inflation valves 20, 30. The primary seals 42, 52 are both secured around an outer periphery (circumference) of the disc shaped carriers 40, 50.

[0070] The inflation valves 20, 30 include bias means in the form of a coiled spring 23, 33 located around a central shaft 48, 58 (core member) which urges and moves the seal members 26, 36 towards the sealing surfaces 29, 39. Specifically, this biasing arrangement causes the primary seals 32, 33 to seal against the sealing surfaces 29, 39. The coiled spring 23, 33 is restrained between a retaining surface of the carrier and a face 21 , 31 in the inlet 22, 32 of the inflation valve 20, 30. In the preferred embodiment, the restrictor 41 , 51 comprises a shaft (or core member) which extends from the disc shaped portion of the carrier 40, 50 and the shaft projects through the inlet face 21 , 31 of the inflation valve 20, 30. The inlet face 21 , 31 provides an aperture or path through a disc shaped partition providing the inlet face 21 , 31 . The aperture enables the shaft 48, ,58 to slidably move therein. At an upper distal end of the shaft 48, 58, a head 46, 56 is provided which comprises an enlarged head or radial flange. The enlarged head has a diameter or periphery which is too large to pass through the aperture. The enlarged head 46, 56 thereby provides an annular surface or retaining surface 43, 53 in direct opposition to the upper / distal surface of the inlet face 21 , 31. These two opposing surfaces are arranged to trap or restrain a spring 23, 33 therebetween (as will be described further below) in order to urge the seals 32, 33 against the sealing surfaces 29, 39.

[0071] The restrictors 41 , 51 of the inflation valves 20, 30 are also arranged to restrict the movement of the seal members 26, 36. Specifically, the restrictors 41 , 51 prevent the seal members 26, 36 from being detached from the housings 28, 38. The restrictors 41 , 51 provide retaining surfaces 43, 53 which are in direct opposition to an outer surface of the faces 21 , 31 (located in the inlets 22, 32) of the inflation valves 20, 30. The seal members 26, 36 are thereby constrained to only be movable between the sealing surfaces 29, 39 (closed position) and a restricted position spaced apart from the sealing surfaces 29, 39 which thereby creates a gap to allow air to flow around the seal member 26, 36 (as shown in Figure 3). The restrictors 41 , 51 are secured in position within the inlets 22, 32 of the valve housings 28, 38. The restrictors 41 , 51 comprises a central shaft with an upper (distal) head or flange. The head (or flange) provides the surface 43, 53 to engage with the coiled spring 23, 33 as explained above. In addition, the upper distal end surface of the head provides a contact surface for actuating the inflation valve 20, 30 as will be explained. In one embodiment, the shaft comprises two parts to enable the coiled spring 23, 33 to be located in position on a lower component prior to engagement with the upper component including the head is subsequently attached or connected which thereby retains the coiled spring 23, 33 in position. These two components forming the shaft may be secured together with a push fit arrangement.

[0072] Each inflation valve includes latching means which is manually operable and enables a user to press a part of the seal member 26, 36 in order for the seal member to be engaged with the latching means which preferably subsequently retains the seal member 26, 36 in the open position or in a second open position. For example, the seal member 26, 36 is held in the closed position when the seal member is unlatched and the seal member 26, 36 is not being pressed by the valve key 60 (or any other external force) and is held in the open position by the valve key 60 and is held in a second open position by the latching means. In the two open positions, the bias means (spring 23, 33) continues to bias and urge the seal member 26, 36 back towards the closed position. The latching means is manually operable from the latched position to be unlatched by a user pressing a part (e.g. the head 46, 56) of the seal member 26, 36 in order for the seal member 26, 36 to disengage with the latching means which subsequently enables the seal member 26, 36 to move to the closed position. The latching means comprises a latch in the form of a ring component 75. The ring component 75 engages with a profiled surface provided on a first section 74 of a restrictor 41 , 51 and a second section 76 of the restrictor 41 , 51 . The or each profiled surface comprises a series of gaps or recesses for the ring 75 (or a part of the ring) to engage within in order to engage or disengage the seal member 26, 36 in a latched (open or second open) position. The latching means is not operable by the valve key 60. Specifically, the latching means is not operated by the docking of the valve key 60 within the inflation valve 20, 30. The valve key 60 only moves the restrictor 41 , 51 partially towards the latching means such that the latching means is not able to latch the seal member 26, 36 and the seal member 26, 36 remains unlatched. Specifically, when a user presses the restrictor 41 , 51 inwardly, a part of the seal member 26, 36 provides a resistive force to indicate when a fully depressed position has been reached such that the user can remove the pressing force and the seal member 26, 36 will remained latched in the open (or second open position). When the valve key 60 is docked, the seal member does not reach this fully depressed position and only travels partially towards this depressed position such that the latch is not operated and, on removal of the valve key 60, the seal member 26, 36 automatically and immediately returns (due to the bias mean in the form of the spring 23, ,33) to the closed position since there is not latch or other obstruction to retain the seal member 26, 36 in the open or second open position (or any open position). In the latched position, the bias means (spring 36, 33) will continue to bias the seal member 26, 36 towards the closed position.

[0073] As shown in Figure 4, the seal member valve 26 (or 36) provides a shaft which includes a first (upper distal) section 74 and a second (lower / proximal) section 76. These sections operate with a ring 75 to provide a latch or catch mechanism to assist in maintaining the seal member 26 in an open position (as shown in Figure 5). This retaining mechanism may assist in deflation. As it will be appreciated, when the seal member 26 is pushed inwardly (downwardly) the seal 29 disengages from the associated sealing surface on the valve to allow fluid flow, for example, to allow inflation or deflation. Accordingly, since the engagement of the valve key 60 with a single valve does not maintain the seal member 26 in such a position, the restrictor 41 is provided with a manually operable latching mechanism. The restrictor 41 could be continuously manually held during deflation. However, the latching mechanism prevents such a manual laborious operation.

[0074] The upper section 74 is a stationary part and does not twist or rotate. The whole seal member 26 is pressed down and the upper section 74 contacts the ring 75 causing the ring 75 to twist. When the downwards force is released (e.g. the user’s finger is released) from pressing the seal member 26, the ring 74 will fall into a slot on the lower section 76. The slots on the lower section 76 determine whether the lower section will seal the valve or open the valve, by determining the height of the lower section 76 within the valve. The slots are (alternately) sequenced as every other, so for example slot 1 = valve open, slot 2 = valve close, slot 3 = valve open, slot 4 = valve closed. The spring 23 forces the upper section 74 upwardly so that the ring 75 is forced into the next slot, determining whether the valve is open or closed. The ring 75 will continue to rotate around in the same direction every time the seal member 26 is pressed. This latching mechanism is not activated by the valve key 60 since the valve key 60 does not completely press the restrictor 41 , 51 down to engage the ring 75 and therefore the inflation valve 20, 30 (seal member 26, 36) will revert back to the closed position when valve key 60 is released.

[0075] The inflation valves 20, 30 are formed as a single assembly / component or unitary device (self-supporting) and the seal members 26, 36 are constrained to only be translationally movable between the open position and the closed position. As explained above, due to the urging action of the spring 23, 33 or other bias means, the seal members 26, 36 will be biased towards the closed position unless a counteracting force overcomes this spring 23, 33 or biasing force. Such a counteracting force may be created due to contact and abutment with an actuator 61 provided by the valve key 60. However, as will be explained, such a force requires that the valve key 60 and specifically the actuator 61 must be trapped and / or engaged between the restrictors 41 , 51 of two inflation valves 20, 30 as will now be described. Each inflation valve 20, 30 may comprise a receiving portion 45, 55 which may be attached through a screw thread or the like provided by a main body portion of the housing 28, 38. This receiving portion 45, 55 may provide the inlet surface and the inlet face 21 , 31. The attachment and detachment of the receiving portion may assist with the assembly of the inflation valve 20, 30 and may assist in the positioning of the seal member 26, 36 in the restrained position within the inflation valve 20, 30.

[0076] The valve key 60 comprises a body 62 having a peripheral wall 64 and a number of apertures 66 provided on a partition which may be formed by two partition members 68, 69 to create pathways through the body 62. The partition members 68, 69 may comprise a series (e.g. three or four or more) radial spokes which extend outwardly from an inner annular member or ring. The peripheral wall 64 is arranged to engage within outer walls 27, 37 of the inlets 22, 32 of the inflation valves 20, 30.

[0077] The inflation valve assembly 10 comprises engagement means in order to engage the valve key 60 in a docked position relative to the first inflation valve 20 and / or the second inflation valve 30 (as shown in Figure 3). As will be explained, in order for the inflation valve assembly 10 to be operational (such that air is transferable and can be donated from a first inflatable camping assembly to a second inflatable camping assembly) the valve key 60 must be docked with (and preferably also engaged with) both the first inflation valve 20 and the second inflation valve 30.

[0078] The valve key 60 includes engagement means in the form of resilient tabs 72 to provide an engagement / docking function. Specifically, the peripheral wall 64 of the valve key 60 provides a first pair of resilient tabs 72 for engagement with the first inflation valve 20 and a second pair of resilient tabs 72 for engagement with the second inflation valve 30. The first pair of tabs 72 are provided towards a first end of the valve key 60 (for engagement with the first inflation valve 20) and the second pair of tabs 72 are provided towards the second opposite end of the valve key 60 (for engagement with the second inflation valve 30). The inflation valves 20, 30 comprise engagement means in the form of openings 44, 54 or recesses. Specifically, each inflation valve 20, 30 provides two openings 44, 54 which are offset by 180 degrees around the outer or peripheral walls 27, 37 of the inlets 22, 32. In some embodiments, there may be four openings 44, 54 each offset by 90 degrees such that the valve key 60 can be more easily engaged due to the two resilient tabs 72 being engageable in two different pairs of openings 44, 54, for example, the valve key 60 can be located in the inlet 22, 32 and then rotated until the tabs 72 engage in the closest pair of openings 44, 54. This rotational movement will be reduced by providing four openings 44, 54 rather than two openings 44 54.

[0079] In alternative embodiments, the docking / engagement arrangement comprises a bayonet mechanism in which an inflation valve comprise one or two or more slots for engagement with one or two or more lugs provided on an external / outer surface of the valve key or vice versa. As further alternatives, the docking / engagement arrangement comprises a screw thread mechanism in which one of the valve key or the first inflation valve and / or the second inflation valve comprise a male screw thread and the other of the valve key or the first inflation valve and / or the second inflation valve comprises a female screw thread.

[0080] The valve key 60 is arranged to be positioned in the openings of the inlets 22, 32 such that a seal is created between the valve key 60 and the inflation valves 20, 30. In this position, with the valve key 60 is engaged and docked in both inflation valves 20, 30 and the valve key 60 is thereby in an operative position. The valve key 60 is configured to be docked with the inlet 22 of the first inflation valve 20 and the valve key 60 is configured to be then subsequently docked with the second inflation valve 30. The valve key 60 is in this operative position only when the valve key is docked with both the first and second inflation valves 20, 30. The docking and engagement of the valve key 60 with both inflation valves 20, 30 is configured to move both the seal members 26, 36 of the first and second inflation valves 20, 30 to the open position when in this operative position. In the operative position the valve key 60 maintains the seal members 26, 36 of both the first and second inflation valves 20, 30 in the open position to create an air pathway through the inflation valve assembly between the first inflation valve 20 and the second inflation valve 30. In use, the valve key 60 is docked and engaged with the first inflation valve 20 but this does not open move the seal member 26 to the open position. The subsequent docking and engagement of the valve key 60 with the second inflation valve 30 causes the seal members 26, 36 of both the first and second inflation valves 20, 30 to move to the open position. Accordingly, this fail safe attachment sequence prevents air loss and ensures the reliable and efficient transfer / donation of air from the first inflatable camping assembly to the second inflatable camping assembly. The mechanism allowing for of this sequential attachment and opening of the seal members 26, 36 will now be described.

[0081] The actuator 61 of the valve key 60 provides a first contact face 88 and a contact face 89. Each contact face 88, 89 is positioned to contact and abut the abutment faces provided by the restrictors 41 , 51 of the inflation valves 20, 30.

[0082] The actuator member in the form of the actuator 61 is translationally movable within the body of the valve key 60. As mentioned above, in the preferred embodiment, the valve key 60 comprises a body 62 having a peripheral wall 64 and a number of apertures 66 provided on two partition members 68, 69 to create pathways through the body 62. The partition members 68, 69 comprise three radial spokes which extend outwardly from an inner annular member or ring. The valve key 60 defines a retaining gap between the first partition member 68 and the second partition member 69. The actuator 61 comprise a retaining section 80 which is restrained for movement between the first partition member 68 and the second partition member 69. A first part or section 82 of the actuator member 80 is arranged to extend through and / or from the first partition member 68 and another (second) part or section 83 of the actuator 80 is arranged to extend through and / or from the second partition member 69. Accordingly, the actuator 80 is constrained for limited translational movement within the body 62 the valve key 60. This translational movement enables the opposing end faces (contact faces 88, 89) to project into and be extracted towards the body 62 of the valve key 60. This movement is along a longitudinal axis of the body of the valve key 60 and preferably along a central longitudinal axis. However, the distance between the two contact faces 88, 89 remains fixed and this subsequently enables a restrictor 41 of the first inflation valve 20 to cause the movement of the restrictor 51 on the second inflation valve 30 in the operational position.

[0083] The actuator 60 in the valve key is free to move translationally within the body of the valve key, As shown in Figure 6 and Figure 7. In an alternative embodiment, the valve key 60 comprises a biasing assembly to urge the actuator 61 to a default position, as shown in Figure 8 and Figure 9. The biasing assembly comprises a first spring 86 and a second spring 84. The first spring 86 may bias the first contacting end / contact face 88 back towards the default position and the second spring 84 may bias the second contact end / contact face 89 back towards the default position. In the default position, the first spring 86 and the second spring 84 cancel each other out. For example, with no external forces the actuator 61 is positioned in the default position. Each spring 84, 86 is restrained to act between an inner surface of a partition member 68, 69 and a retaining surface provided by the retaining section 80 of the actuator 61 . Each coiled spring 84, 86 thereby urges and attempts to move a respective section 82, 83 and the associated contact face 88, 89 outwardly.

[0084] In the default position, the first contact face 88 and the second contact face 89 are positioned ready for contacting an abutment face 47 of the first inflation valve 20 and / or an abutment face 57 of the second inflation valve 30. The contact between the first abutment face 47 with the first contact face 88 moves the actuator 61 away from the default position and maintains the seal member 26 in a closed position. The contact between both abutments faces47, 57 with both contact faces 88, 89 moves the actuator 61 to or towards the default position and moves both seal members 26, 36 to an open position. The contact between both abutment faces 47, 57 with both contact faces 88, 89 retains and / or maintains both seal members 26, 36 in an open position. This positioned is maintained due to the engagement means which may be provided by the tabs 72 and openings 44, 54.

[0085] In use, the valve key 60 is docked and engaged with a first inflation valve 20 of a first inflatable camping assembly. This first inflatable camping assembly may be in a fully inflated condition and / or connected to a pump through a separate pump inflation valve. This enables the first inflatable camping assembly to act as a donor (by providing a reservoir of air which may or may not be replenished separately by a pump) to supply air to a second inflatable camping assembly. The attachment to just the first inflation valve 20 does not cause the seal member 26 to move to an open position and the first inflation valve 20 remains closed. The second inflation valve 30 is then engaged with the second free end of the valve key 60. Specifically the valve key 60 is docked and engaged with the second inflation valve 30. The restrictor 51 of the second inflation valve 30 thereby moves the actuator 61 back in towards the body 62 of the valve key 60. This causes the other end of the actuator 61 to move outwardly (and towards the first inflation valve 20) which thereby moves the seal member 26 of the first inflation valve 20 to an open position. Simultaneously, the seal member 36 of the second inflation valve 30 will move to an open position since a counteracting force from the restrictor 41 of the first inflation valve 20 will overcome the spring force in the second inflation valve 30. In this operational position, the springs are all balanced such that the actuator 61 is substantially in the default position and both seal members 26, 36 are in an open position.

[0086] The detachment of the valve key 60 from one of the inflation valves 20, 30 will then allow the actuator 61 to move away from the remaining connected inflation valve such that this inflation valve will be closed. Specifically, the relatively free movement of the actuator 61 will allow the seal member to move to the closed position. Accordingly, the inflation valve assembly 10 provides an automatic and fail safe closing operation as the two inflatable camping assemblies are disconnected from each other.

[0087] A preferred embodiment has been described above although it should be appreciated that many variations could be used whilst retaining the functional operation of the present invention. For example, the docking and engagement mechanism may comprise other connecting mechanical arrangements and / or magnetic arrangements etc. Similarly, the seal member may be urged and / or retained in the closed position through other mechanical arrangements and / or magnetic mechanisms etc. It will be appreciated that another valve key or an attachment may open the inflation valve without the use of second inflation valve. For example, a pump with a suitable attachment will cause the seal member to move to an open position to enable the pump to inflate the inflatable camping assembly. Accordingly, this does not require the use of two inflatable camping assemblies with the valve key engaged therebetween.

[0088] Similarly, when the valve key 60 is only docked with a single inflation valve 20, 30, a user may press the actuator 61 in the valve key 60 to open or close the inflation valve 20, 30. As described above, the latching means is arranged such that a first push engages the latching means and retains the seal member 26 in the open position and a second push disengages the latching means and the seal member 26 is moved back to the closed position. The latching means is arranged on the seal member 26 and, in particular is provided through the movement of the restrictor 41 of the seal member 26. As described above, the slots of the latching arrangement are (alternately) sequenced as every other, so for example slot 1 = valve open, slot 2 = valve close, slot 3 = valve open, slot 4 = valve closed. Each push of the restrictor 41 (to the fully depressed position or to a predetermined position / depth) moves the ring 75 into the next slot, determining whether the valve is open or closed. The ring 75 will continue to rotate around in the same direction every time the seal member 26 is pressed. Accordingly a user can press the actuator 61 of a docked valve key 60 once to open the inflation valve 20 and can then press the actuator 61 a second time to subsequently close the inflation valve 20. This may assist with deflation whilst maintaining the valve key 60 in a safe and engaged position.

[0089] The present invention provides the default position of the valves being closed and kept closed until a valve key is engaged between two such inflation valves and, therefore, they are always ready for set-up when the camping structure is unpacked, rather than each valve having to be manually closed prior to inflation. With such a configuration, user intervention is not required to arrange the inflation valve to be closed, for example, a stopper is not required to be placed with the valve. The valve key inhibits malicious deflation, whilst facilitating a donor system.

[0090] In another embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, the inflation valve 20 includes bias means (spring 23) to urge the seal member 26 to an open position rather than a closed position. In this arrangement, latching means are provided to latch the seal member 26 in a closed position. These latching means may be in the form of a ring operating with two sections of the restrictor 41 as described above, albeit in an opposite orientation.

[0091] In this version, with the seal member 26 in an open position, the valve key 60 would be docked and engaged with the first inflation valve 20 as previously described. This would not impact the position / function of the seal member 26. The valve key 60 would then be docked and engaged with the second inflation valve 30 as previously described. This would ensure that both seal members are in the open position (if they are not already) and the valve key 60 may also maintain the seal members 26, 36 in the open position. This open position may be a second open position which is different from the position of the seal member 26 in the original (first) open position. When the valve key 60 is removed, the seal member 26 is moved to the closed position. For example, the valve key 60 moves the seal member 26 to the closed position and the valve key 60 is extracted. This movement may be due to an engagement between the valve key 60 and the seal member 26. In one embodiment, a magnetic arrangement is arranged to cause the valve key 60 to move the seal member 26 to the closed position. For example, the valve key 60 may have a first magnetic member (on an end of the actuator 61 ) and the seal member 26 may have an associated magnetic member (on the distal end / head 46 of the restrictor 41 ). Other mechanisms and arrangements may be used to provide this movement of the seal member 26 to the closed position as the valve key 60 is removed. Accordingly, the seal member 26 is pulled up to the closed position by this engagement against the bias force of the spring 23. In the closed position, the latching means maintains the seal member 26 in the closed position. This latching arrangement can be disengaged through the subsequent docking of a valve key 60 between two inflation valves 20, 30 or manually by a user moving the restrictor (for example, pulling or pushing the restrictor depending on the arrangement of the latching means).

[0092] In one example, the latching means is disengaged from the latch (with the seal member 26 in a closed position) by pushing the restrictor downwardly. This may be achieved manually by a user grasping the head 46 of the restrictor 41 and pushing the restrictor to unlatch the seal member 26 from the closed position. In addition, the docking of the valve key 60 between two inflation valves 20, 30 is arranged to push the restrictor 41 downwardly. This downwards movement disengages the latching means and the bias arrangement (spring 23) moves the seal member 26 to the open position. This unlatching operation may also be achieved manually by a user pushing the head 46 of the restrictor 41 to unlatch the seal member 26 from the closed position. In another example, the latching means is disengaged from the latch (with the seal member 26 in a closed position) by pulling the restrictor upwardly. This may be achieved manually by a user grasping the head 46 of the restrictor 41 and pulling the restrictor to unlatch the seal member 26 from the closed position. Alternatively, the valve key 60 may have an actuating mechanism which pulls / moves the restrictor 41 upwardly when the valve key is 60 docked and / or engaged between two inflation valves 20, 30. This actuating mechanism may comprise a lever arrangement or a magnetic arrangement to pull the restrictor 41 upwardly which operates only when the valve key 60 is docked / engaged between two inflation valves 20, 30.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . An inflation valve assembly comprising: a first inflation valve comprising: an inlet; an outlet; and a seal member which is movable between an open position and a closed position, the seal member comprising a seal to prevent or allow air flow through inflation valve between the inlet and the outlet; a second inflation valve comprising: an inlet; an outlet; and a seal member which is movable between an open position and a closed position, the seal member comprising a seal to prevent or allow air flow through inflation valve between the inlet and the outlet; a valve key; wherein the valve key is configured to be docked with the inlet of the first inflation valve and the valve key is configured to be docked with the second inflation valve, the valve key being in an operative position when the valve key is docked with both the first and second inflation valves; wherein both the seal members of the first and second inflation valves move to the open position when the valve key is positioned in the operative position and, and in the operative position the seal members of both the first and second inflation valves are maintained in the open position to create an air pathway through the inflation valve assembly between the first inflation valve and the second inflation valve.

2. An inflation valve assembly according to Claim 1 in which, the valve key is in a non-operative position when the valve key is docked with the first inflation valve and is undocked from the second inflation valve, and the seal member of the first inflation valve remains in a closed position in the non-operative position.

3. An inflation valve assembly according to Claim 1 or Claim 2 in which: the seal member of the first inflation valve is biased away from the open position and towards the closed position by bias means; the seal member of the second inflation valve is biased away from the open position and towards the closed position by bias means; the valve key is configured to move both the seal members of the first and second inflation valves to the open position when in the operative position; and in the operative position, the valve key maintains the seal members of both the first and second inflation valves in the open position to create an air pathway through the inflation valve assembly between the first inflation valve and the second inflation valve.

4. An inflation valve assembly according to any preceding claim in which, when the valve key is only docked with the first inflation valve and is undocked with the second inflation valve, the seal member of the first inflation valve is maintained in a closed position.

5. An inflation valve assembly according to any preceding claim in which engagement means are arranged to engage the valve key in the docked position relative to both the first and second inflation valves.

6. An inflation valve assembly according to any preceding claim in which, in the operative position, the valve key maintains the seal members of both the first and second inflation valves in the open position to create an air pathway through the inflation valves between the outlet of the first inflation valve and the outlet of the second inflation valve.

7. An inflation valve assembly according to any preceding claim in which the docking of the valve key with the inlet of the or each inflation valve causes the respective seal member(s) to create a seal between the or each inflation valve and the valve key.

8. An inflation valve assembly according to any preceding claim in which the or each inflation valve comprises latching means to retain the seal member in a second open position.

9. An inflation valve assembly according to Claim 8 in which the latching means prevents the seal member from moving to the closed position and, in the second open position, the bias means continues to bias the seal member towards the closed position.

10. An inflation valve assembly according to Claim 8 or Claim 9 in which the latching means is manually operable and enables a user to press a part of the seal member in order for the seal member to be engaged with the latching means which subsequently retains the seal member in the second open position.

11. An inflation valve assembly according to any one of Claim 8 to Claim 10 in which the latching means is not operable by the valve key and the latching means is not operated by the docking of the valve key within the inflation valve and wherein the valve key only moves a restrictor partially towards the latching means such that the latching means is not able to latch the seal member and the seal member remains unlatched.

12. An inflation valve assembly according to any preceding claim in which the valve key comprises an actuator member and wherein the actuator member is moveably retained in the valve key and in which the actuator member comprises a longitudinal component with a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, the first longitudinal end provides a first contact face to actuate the first inflation valve and the second longitudinal end provides a second contact face to actuate the second inflation valve.

13. An inflation valve assembly according to Claim 12 in which the actuator member is retained in the valve key and limited to movement a long a longitudinal axis of the valve key.

14. An inflation valve assembly according to Claim 12 or Claim 13 in which, in a default position, the first contact face and the second contact face are positioned ready for contacting an abutment face of the first inflation valve and in which contact between the first abutment face with the first contact face moves the actuator member away from the default position and maintains the seal member of the first inflation valve in a closed position.

15. An inflation valve assembly according to Claim 14 in which contact between both abutments faces with both contact faces moves the actuator towards the default position and moves both seal members to an open position.

16. An inflation valve assembly according to Claim 15 in which contact between both abutment faces with both contact faces retains and maintains both seal members in an open position.

17. An inflation valve assembly according to any preceding claim in which the docking arrangement comprises engagement openings and corresponding engagement tabs.

18. An inflation valve assembly according to Claim 17 in which the engagement openings are provided in the first inflation valve and in the second inflation valve and the valve key comprises a first set of tabs provided towards a first end of the valve key and a second set of tabs provided towards a second end of the valve key.

19. An inflation valve assembly according to any preceding claim in which the seal member comprises a disc having a sealing surface defined around an outer periphery or circumference.

20. A camping assembly comprising a first inflatable camping assembly, a second inflatable camping assembly and an inflation valve assembly comprising:a first inflation valve on the first inflatable camping assembly, the first inflation valve comprising: an inlet; an outlet; and a seal member which is movable between an open position and a closed position, the seal member comprising a seal to prevent or allow air flow through inflation valve between the inlet and the outlet; a second inflation valve on the second inflatable camping assembly, the second inflation valve comprising: an inlet; an outlet; and a seal member which is movable between an open position and a closed position, the seal member comprising a seal to prevent or allow air flow through inflation valve between the inlet and the outlet; a valve key; wherein the valve key is configured to be docked with the inlet of the first inflation valve and the valve key is configured to be docked with the second inflation valve, the valve key being in an operative position when the valve key is docked with both the first and second inflation valves; wherein both the seal members of the first and second inflation valves move to the open position when the valve key is positioned in the operative position and, and in the operative position the seal members of both the first and second inflation valves are maintained in the open position to create an air pathway through the inflation valve assembly between the first inflation valve and the second inflation valve.21 . A camping assembly according to Claim 20 in which each of the first and the second inflatable camping assemblies comprises one of: an inflatable tent, an awning, a gazebo, or an inflatable camper trailer tent.

22. A camping assembly according to Claim 20 or Claim 21 in which the second inflatable camping assemblies comprises one of: a wind break, an auxiliary tent, an inflatable paddling pool, an inflatable ball, an inflatable mattress, or an inflatable seat.

23. A method of inflating an inflatable camping assembly using an inflation valve assembly, the inflation valve assembly comprising: a first inflation valve comprising: an inlet; an outlet; and a seal member which is movable between an open position and a closed position, the seal member comprising a seal to prevent or allow air flow through inflation valve between the inlet and the outlet; a second inflation valve comprising: an inlet; an outlet; and a seal member which is movable between an open position and a closed position, the seal member comprising a seal to prevent or allow air flow through inflation valve between the inlet and the outlet; a valve key; wherein the valve key is configured to be docked with the inlet of the first inflation valve and the valve key is configured to be docked with the second inflation valve, the valve key being in an operative position when the valve key is docked with both the first and second inflation valves; wherein both the seal members of the first and second inflation valves move to the open position when the valve is positioned in the operative position and, and in the operative position the seal members of both the first and second inflationvalves are maintained in the open position to create an air pathway through the inflation valve assembly between the first inflation valve and the second inflation valve; the method comprising: docking the valve key with the inlet of the first inflation valve and retaining the seal member of the first inflation valve in a closed position, and docking the valve key with the inlet of the second inflation valve and moving the seal members of both first inflation valve and the second inflation valve to an open position.

24. A method of inflating an inflatable camping assembly using an inflation valve assembly according to Claim 23, the method comprising inflating a second inflatable camping assembly with air from a first inflatable camping assembly.

25. A method of inflating an inflatable camping assembly using an inflation valve assembly according to Claim 23 or Claim 24, the method comprising donating or supplying air from a or the first inflatable camping assembly through the first inflation valve, the valve key and then through the second inflation valve to a or the second inflatable camping assembly.