U.S. patent application number 15/656674 was filed with the patent office on 2018-01-25 for frame for self-supporting shelter.
The applicant listed for this patent is LEISURELIFE (AUST) PTY LTD. Invention is credited to Maxwell William DAY.
Application Number | 20180023314 15/656674 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 60988244 |
Filed Date | 2018-01-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180023314 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
DAY; Maxwell William |
January 25, 2018 |
FRAME FOR SELF-SUPPORTING SHELTER
Abstract
Provided herein is a frame for use with a self-supporting
structure, such as a tent or awning. The frame may comprise a
plurality of support members, each comprising a plurality of
elongate support sections in co-linear arrangement and connected by
over-centre hinge joints. The frame may have an erected
self-supporting condition with the hinged joints in an open
over-centre condition and each support member forms an arch. The
frame may have a collapsed condition with the hinged joints in a
closed condition and the support members are folded. Also provided
are collapsible shelters comprising any of the frames described
herein.
Inventors: |
DAY; Maxwell William;
(Victoria, AU) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
LEISURELIFE (AUST) PTY LTD |
Victoria |
|
AU |
|
|
Family ID: |
60988244 |
Appl. No.: |
15/656674 |
Filed: |
July 21, 2017 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
135/123 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04H 15/322 20130101;
E04H 15/60 20130101; E04H 15/405 20130101; E04H 15/48 20130101;
E04H 15/64 20130101 |
International
Class: |
E04H 15/40 20060101
E04H015/40; E04H 15/32 20060101 E04H015/32; E04H 15/48 20060101
E04H015/48 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 22, 2016 |
AU |
2016902889 |
Apr 3, 2017 |
AU |
2017901207 |
Claims
1. A frame comprising a plurality of support members, wherein each
support member comprises a plurality of elongate support sections
in co-linear arrangement and connected by over-centre hinged
joints; whereby when the frame is in an erected self-supporting
condition the hinged joints are in an open over-centre condition
and each support member forms an arch and when the frame is in a
collapsed condition the hinged joints are in a closed condition and
the support members are folded.
2. The frame according to claim 1, wherein the over-centre hinged
joints are non-locking hinged joints.
3. The frame according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality
of slidable hinged joints.
4. The frame according to claim 3, wherein each slidable hinged
joint comprises a hinge channel comprising a hinge shoulder and a
pivot pin, and a sliding portion comprising an elongate slot having
a pivot end and a non-pivot end wherein the hinge channel is
longitudinally disposed at the end of a second support section, the
pivot pin is transversely disposed across the hinge channel and
connected thereto, and the sliding portion is longitudinally
disposed at the end of a third support section, the elongate slot
is longitudinally disposed along the sliding portion and receives
the pivot pin transversely therein.
5. The frame according to claim 1, further comprising one or more
stabilising member comprising plurality of elongate support
sections in co-linear arrangement and connected by over-centre
hinged joints, whereby when the frame is in an erected
self-supporting condition the hinged joints are in an open
over-centre condition and the stabilising member forms part of an
arch.
6. The frame according to claim 1, further comprising a flexible
sheet material attached to the frame, and wherein when in the
erected self-supporting condition, the flexible sheet material is
stretched taut.
7. The frame according to claim 6, wherein the flexible sheet
material is attached to the frame by way of sleeves through which
the support members pass and which are attached to, or integral
with, the flexible sheet material.
8. The frame according to claim 7, wherein the flexible sheet
material is formed in the shape of a tent or a sunshelter.
9. The frame according to claim 1, further comprising a roof plate
in co-linear arrangement with the elongate support sections and to
which the neighbouring elongate support sections are pivotally or
hingedly attached.
10. The frame according to claim 1, further comprising frame
anchors for releasably receiving the ends of the support
members.
11. The frame according to claim 10, wherein each frame anchor is
connected to the flexible sheet material by a connector.
12. The frame according to claim 11, wherein the frame further
comprises a clip.
13. The frame according to claim 12, wherein the connector
comprises a length of tape, a length of elastic, a spring, or a
hook.
14. The frame according to claim 1, wherein each over-centre hinge
comprises a hinge hook disposed at the end of a first support
section and a hinge channel at the opposing end of a neighbouring
second support section, longitudinally disposed thereto, wherein
the hinge channel comprises a pivot pin that extends across the
hinge channel, transverse to the second support section, and a
hinge shoulder at the end of the hinge channel.
15. The frame according to claim 1, further comprising one or more
compression damper.
16. The frame according to claim 15, wherein the compression damper
comprises a spring.
17. The frame according to claim 15, wherein the compression damper
is located at the end of a support member adjacent to a foot anchor
and engageable therewith.
18. The frame according to claim 1, when used for a collapsible
shelter.
19. The frame according to claim 18, wherein the collapsible
shelter is a tent or a sunshelter.
20. A collapsible shelter comprising a frame according to claim 1.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority from
Australian Patent App. Nos. 2016902889 filed Jul. 22, 2016 and
2017901207 filed Apr. 3, 2017, the content of which is hereby
incorporated by reference to the extent not inconsistent
herewith.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates to a frame for a self-supporting,
shelter such as a tent or an awning. More particularly, the
invention relates to a frame for an improved shelter that is
convenient to erect and collapse.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
[0003] Various tent constructions are commercially available, many
allegedly making it easy to at least erect the tent structure.
These tent constructions include, for example, tents with an
umbrella-like frame ("umbrella tents"), self-erecting tents with
closed loop frames ("pop-up tents"), and "quick-pitch tents."
[0004] Umbrella tents typically have a frame that is configured to
be erected and collapsed in much the same fashion as an umbrella.
Generally, the frames of umbrella tents include a plurality of arms
that are pivotally connected to an upper spider assembly and a
lower spider assembly. A complex drive mechanism is used to move
the upper and lower spider assemblies towards and away from one
another to splay or draw together the arms, respectively, thereby
erecting or collapsing the frame. Some umbrella tents require
manual pushing of the lower spider assembly upwards towards the
upper spider assembly to erect the frame. A locking mechanism is
typically used to lock the frame of the umbrella tent in an erected
condition. To erect an umbrella tent, a user typically stands
beneath the lower spider assembly, within the collapsed tent, and
manually pushes the lower spider assembly upwards towards the upper
spider assembly in order to splay the arms of the frame into an
erected condition. Alternatively, if a drive mechanism is present
on the frame, a user operates the drive mechanism, to move the
upper and lower spider assemblies towards one another and splay the
arms of the frame into an erected condition.
[0005] Umbrella tents have several drawbacks. Not only are they
awkward and difficult to erect and collapse, with a user having to
stand within a collapsed or collapsing tent and push the lower
spider assembly upwards, but the umbrella frame tends to pinch or
catch the sheet material of the tent and impede erection and
collapse thereof or rip the sheet material. A user can also trap
his or her fingers in the umbrella frame. It is difficult for one
person to erect an umbrella tent on their own and generally at
least two people are required. The frame of umbrella tents is
usually quite heavy. In addition, such tents are often unreliable
as a locking mechanism is required which typically bears
substantial stress in maintaining the tent in the erected
condition. If the locking mechanism is of an inferior quality, it
can fail under such stress, leading to inadvertent collapse of the
tent, rendering it useless.
[0006] As an alternative, pop-up tents are commercially available.
These tents typically have resilient, coilable frame elements
formed into several closed loops, arranged in a variety of
configurations relative to one another. The closed loops are held
captive by tabs or within sleeves or pockets of the sheet material
of the tent. In an erected condition, the resilient frame elements
stretch the sheet material of the tent operatively outwards. To
collapse the tent, a user manually twists and folds the entire
structure, coiling the frame elements, into a bound, flat, circular
package for transportation and storage. To erect the tent, a user
releases the packaged tent which then instantaneously springs into
the erected condition.
[0007] Pop-up tents have several drawbacks. It is difficult and
awkward to collapse this kind of tent, particularly a large
unwieldy tent, because the frame elements constantly spring back
into the erected condition due to their inherent resilience.
Accordingly, it is difficult for one person to collapse a pop-up
tent, and generally at least two people are required.
[0008] Further commercially available alternatives are the
quick-pitch tents including quick pitch tents for use in adverse
weather conditions. These tents generally comprise a frame, from
which cloth housing is suspended, the frame typically comprising
poles with multiple locking joints which are required to maintain
the tent in an erected condition. Such locking joints are typically
self-locking joints which are expensive to manufacture, increasing
the cost of the tent. Furthermore, while such locking joints can
make it relatively easy for a user to rapidly erect the tent; they
generally require two hands to unlock in order to collapse the
tent. This can make it slow and awkward for a user to collapse
these kinds of tents.
[0009] The cost of the various mechanisms employed in the tent
construction is an important consideration. That is, both the
initial cost for the parts themselves and their assembly must be
reasonable in order to provide a realistic price point for a
manufacturer, as well as to facilitate the use of light-weight
materials and the easy and cost-effective replacement of parts of
the tent frame, which may become damaged in use.
[0010] There remains a need in the art for an improved light-weight
self-supporting frame for a collapsible shelter or tent which is of
simple construction and is convenient for a user to erect, collapse
and repackage into a compact shape and size after use, for storage.
There is also a need for a frame for a collapsible shelter which is
relatively cost-effective to manufacture.
[0011] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not,
and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of
suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general
knowledge.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] Broadly, the invention provides an improved frame for a
collapsible shelter which is light-weight and self-supporting and
is configured and dimensioned for a user to conveniently erect and
collapse.
[0013] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided
a frame comprising a plurality of support members, wherein each
support member comprises a plurality of elongate support sections
in co-linear arrangement and connected by over-centre hinged
joints; whereby when the frame is in an erected self-supporting
condition the over-centre hinged joints are in an open over-centre
condition and each support member forms an arch and when the frame
is in a collapsed condition the over-centre hinged joints are in a
closed condition and the support members are folded.
[0014] According to another aspect of the invention, there is
provided the use of over-centre hinged joints in a frame comprising
a plurality of support members, wherein each support member
comprises a plurality of elongate support sections in co-linear
arrangement and connected by the over-centre hinged joints; whereby
when the frame is in an erected self-supporting condition the
over-centre hinged joints are in an open over-centre condition and
each support member forms an arch, and when the frame is in a
collapsed condition the over-centre hinged joints are in a closed
condition and the support members are folded.
[0015] Each over-centre hinged joint comprises a hinge hook, a
hinge channel comprising a hinge shoulder and a pivot pin, wherein
the hinge hook is longitudinally disposed at the end of a first
support section, the hinge channel is longitudinally disposed at
the end of a second support section, the pivot pin is transversely
disposed across the hinge channel and connected thereto, and the
hinge hook engages the pivot pin. The over-centre hinged joint is
operable between an open over-centre condition wherein the hinge
hook bears against the hinge shoulder, and a closed condition.
[0016] The frame may further comprise slidable hinged joints. Each
slidable hinged joint comprises a hinge channel comprising a hinge
shoulder and a pivot pin, and a sliding portion comprising an
elongate slot having a pivot end and a non-pivot end wherein the
hinge channel is longitudinally disposed at the end of the second
support section, the pivot pin is transversely disposed across the
hinge channel and connected thereto, and the sliding portion is
longitudinally disposed at the end of a third support section, the
elongate slot is longitudinally disposed along the sliding portion
and receives the pivot pin transversely therein.
[0017] Each slidable hinged joint may further comprise a lug
disposed on the sliding portion and extending therefrom and a
corresponding recess disposed in the hinge channel, wherein the lug
is receivable in the recess. Preferably, the slidable hinged joint
comprises two opposed lugs extending from either side thereof.
Preferably, the lugs are adjacent the elongate slot on the sliding
portion, and spaced therefrom.
[0018] The sliding portion may be hollow and comprise two opposed
elongate slots on either side thereof.
[0019] The slidable hinged joint is operable between a closed
condition wherein the pivot pin is received in the elongate slot at
the pivot end thereof and the lug is not received in the recess,
and an open condition wherein the pivot pin is received in the
elongate slot at the non-pivot end thereof and the lug is received
in the recess.
[0020] In some embodiments, the plurality of elongate support
sections are alternately connected by over-centre hinged joints and
slidable hinged joints, wherein the over-centre hinged joints are
outwardly facing relative to the frame and the slidable hinged
joints are inwardly facing relative to the frame. In these
embodiments, when the frame is in the erected self-supporting
condition, the over-centre hinged joints are outwardly facing and
in the open over-centre condition, and the slidable hinged joints
are inwardly facing and in the open condition. When the frame is in
the collapsed condition, the over-centre hinged joints are in the
closed condition, the slidable locking joints are in the closed
condition, and the support members are folded concertina
fashion.
[0021] The frame may further comprise a flexible sheet material
which is attached to the frame. The flexible sheet material may be
suspended from the frame.
[0022] Any one or more combinations of these features allow the
frame to be self-supporting under the weight of the frame and the
flexible sheet material, and any additional loads that may be
caused by rain etc., which bears against the over-centre hinged
joints when in the erected condition.
[0023] Preferably, the over-centre hinged joints are non-locking
hinged joints.
[0024] Preferably, the flexible sheet material is attached to the
frame by way of sleeves through which the support members pass and
which are attached to, or integral with, the flexible sheet
material. The sleeves allow the flexible sheet material to slide
along the length of the support members. When in the erected
condition, the flexible sheet material hangs from the frame. The
flexible sheet material may be held taut or tensioned against,
around or over the frame.
[0025] The flexible sheet material may be made from light-weight
waterproof material such as nylon, polycotton and/or polyester. As
will be appreciated, because all of the components of the frame are
always associated with the flexible sheet material, loss of
component parts is eliminated and replacement of individual
components of the frame may be easily accomplished.
[0026] The flexible sheet material may be formed in the shape of a
tent. The tent may have a generally domed shape with a roof, side
walls, a door, optionally one or more windows and a floor that may
be formed from contiguous flexible sheet material. The floor may be
substantially oblong in configuration and comprise a sewn-in
groundsheet made from polyethylene. The door and windows may be
formed by an opening in the flexible sheet material which may be
closed by a zip. The flexible sheet material may further comprise
ties attached to the flexible sheet material for securing the door
or window when rolled up and not in use.
[0027] The frame may further comprise a roof plate in co-linear
arrangement with the elongate support sections and to which the
neighbouring elongate support sections are pivotally or hingedly
attached. The elongate support sections may be pivotally or
hingedly attached to the roof plate in a radial arrangement. The
support members may be made from a light-weight material such as
plastic and/or glass reinforced plastic.
[0028] The frame may further comprise frame anchors for releasably
receiving the ends of the support members. Each frame anchor may be
in the form of a planar tab comprising one or more holes for
releasably receiving and securing the ends of the support
members.
[0029] Each frame anchor may be connected to the flexible sheet
material by a connector. The frame anchor may comprise one or more
slots. In some embodiments, the connector is in the form of a
length of tape which is attached to the flexible sheet material and
passes through a slot in the frame anchor. In another embodiment,
the connector is in the form of a length of elastic which is
attached to the flexible sheet material and passes through a slot
in the frame anchor. In a further embodiment, the connector is in
the form of a spring or hook which engages with the frame through a
slot on the frame anchor. In yet another embodiment, the frame
further comprises a clip which is engageable with a support member
and which comprises at least one slot. In this embodiment, the
connector is in the form of a length of tape or elastic having two
ends wherein each end is attached to the flexible sheet material
and the tape or elastic passes through a slot in the frame anchor
and a slot in the clip.
[0030] According to each of the above embodiments, the frame may
further comprise one or more compression damper comprising: a tube
in which an end of a support member is co-linearly and slidably
receivable, wherein the tube is connected to a frame anchor at one
end and comprises a neck at the other end, and wherein the tube
defines an elongate damping chamber; and a spring co-linearly
disposed within the elongate damping chamber, wherein one end of
the spring is connected to the end of the support member and the
other end of the spring is connected to the frame anchor.
[0031] In embodiments comprising a compression damper, the support
member comprises a shoulder which extends transversely therefrom
and is spaced from the end thereof, wherein the shoulder is located
inside the damping chamber and wherein, in use, the shoulder of the
support member bears against the neck of the tube.
[0032] The compression damper may further comprise one or more
stopper to which an end of the spring is attached. In a preferred
embodiment, the compression damper comprises a pair of opposed
stoppers disposed within the damping chamber, one connected to the
end of the support member and the other connected to the end of the
tube. The stoppers may comprise lugs which extend into the spring
to which the end of the spring is attached.
[0033] In some embodiments, the support members comprise a
plurality of elongate support sections in co-linear arrangement and
connected by over-centre hinged joints; whereby when the frame is
in an erected self-supporting condition the hinged joints are in an
open over-centre condition and each support member forms an
arch.
[0034] The frame may further comprise one or more stabilising
member comprising plurality of elongate support sections in
co-linear arrangement and connected by over-centre hinged joints,
in similar fashion to the support member; whereby when the frame is
in an erected self-supporting condition the hinged joints are in an
open over-centre condition and the stabilising member forms part of
an arch.
[0035] In other embodiments, the frame further comprises a roof
plate. In these embodiments, the support members, and optionally
one or more stabilising member, are pivotally or hingedly connected
to the roof plate; whereby when the frame is in an erected
self-supporting condition the hinged joints are in an open
over-centre condition and each support member forms an arch and
each optional stabilising member forms part of an arch.
[0036] The flexible sheet material may further comprise door and/or
window screens, comprising a second layer of flexible sheet
material over the door and window, formed by zips. The flexible
sheet material may further comprise a fly, positioned adjacent to
or over the flexible material.
[0037] The frame may further comprise a guy assembly.
[0038] According to a first embodiment of the invention, there is
provided a frame for a collapsible shelter in the form of a tent,
shaped and dimensioned to house two people.
[0039] According to a second embodiment of the invention, there is
provided a frame for a collapsible shelter in the form of a tent,
shaped and dimensioned to house three people.
[0040] According to a third embodiment of the invention, there is
provided a frame for a collapsible shelter in the form of a tent,
shaped and dimensioned to house two people, the tent further
comprising a porch.
[0041] According to a fourth embodiment of the invention, there is
provided a frame for a collapsible shelter in the form of a tent
shaped and dimensioned to house six people.
[0042] According to a fifth embodiment of the invention, there is
provided a frame for a collapsible shelter in the form of a
sunshelter.
[0043] Although the descriptions of various embodiments of the
invention herein provided are concerned generally with frames for
camping tents and sunshelters, for example, those persons skilled
in the art will recognize the wider applicability of the inventive
features disclosed herein.
[0044] Further aspects and/or features of the present invention
will become apparent from the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0045] In order that the invention may be readily understood and
put into practical effect, reference will now be made to
embodiments of the present invention with reference to the
accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numbers refer to
identical elements. The drawings are provided by way of example
only, wherein:
[0046] FIG. 1 is a photograph of a frame according to the invention
showing a close-up view of an over-centre hinged joint in the open
over-centre condition when the frame is in the erected
condition;
[0047] FIG. 2 is a photograph of a frame according to the invention
showing a close-up view of another over-centre hinged joint in the
open over-centre condition when the frame is in the erected
condition;
[0048] FIG. 3 is a photograph of a frame according to the invention
showing a close-up view of an over-centre hinged joint closing into
the closed condition when the frame is collapsing into the
collapsed condition;
[0049] FIG. 4 is a photograph of a frame according to the invention
showing a close-up view of the roof plate when the frame is in the
erected condition;
[0050] FIG. 5 is a photograph of a frame according to the invention
showing a close-up top view of a frame anchor when the frame is in
the erected condition and wherein the connector is in the form of a
length of tape;
[0051] FIG. 6 is a photograph of a frame according to the invention
showing a close-up bottom view of a frame anchor when the frame is
in the erected condition;
[0052] FIG. 7 is a photograph of a frame according to a first
embodiment of the invention in the erected condition;
[0053] FIG. 8 is a photograph of a frame according to a first
embodiment of the invention in the erected condition, further
comprising a fly;
[0054] FIG. 9 is a photograph of a frame according to a fourth
embodiment of the invention in the erected condition;
[0055] FIG. 10 is a drawing of an embodiment of the invention in
which the connector is in the form of a length of elastic which is
attached to the flexible sheet material and passes through a slot
in the frame anchor;
[0056] FIG. 11 is a drawing of an embodiment of the invention
further comprising a clip and in which the connector is in the form
of a length of tape or elastic having two ends wherein each end is
attached to the flexible sheet material and the tape or elastic
passes through a slot in the frame anchor and a slot in the
clip;
[0057] FIG. 12 is a drawing of a longitudinal section of a
compression damper of some embodiments of the invention;
[0058] FIG. 13 is a drawing of an embodiment of the invention
comprising a compression damper and a connector in the form of a
length of tape;
[0059] FIG. 14 is a photograph of a frame according to a fifth
embodiment of the invention in the erected condition, in the form
of a sunshelter;
[0060] FIG. 15 is a drawing of an embodiment of the invention
comprising a plurality of elongate support sections that are
alternately connected by over-centre hinged joints and slidable
hinged joints, wherein the over-centre hinged joints are outwardly
facing relative to the frame and the slidable hinged joints are
inwardly facing relative to the frame, and the frame is in the
erected self-supporting condition;
[0061] FIG. 16 is a drawing of the embodiment shown in FIG. 15,
showing the frame collapsing from the erected self-supporting
condition to the collapsed condition;
[0062] FIGS. 17 and 18 are close-up drawings of a closing slidable
hinged joint wherein the pivot pin is received in the pivot end of
the elongate slot of the sliding portion;
[0063] FIG. 19 is a drawing of a cross-sectional view of the
closing slidable hinged joint of FIGS. 17 and 18; and
[0064] FIG. 20 is a photograph showing an end of the closing
slidable hinged joint according to some embodiments of the
invention in which the slidable hinged joint has a lug which is
receivable in a corresponding recess.
[0065] Skilled addressees will appreciate that elements in the
drawings are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not
necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the relative
dimensions of some elements in the drawings may be distorted to
help improve understanding of embodiments of the present
invention.
[0066] Further aspects of the present disclosure will be apparent
in the description set out below. It will be appreciated that
various aspects of the disclosure may be implemented individually
or in combination with one another. It will also be appreciated
that the detailed description and drawings, while indicating
certain exemplary embodiments, are intended for purposes of
illustration only and should not be construed as limiting the scope
of the disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0067] The following detailed description illustrates the invention
by way of example only and not by way of limitation.
[0068] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a frame 10
for a self-supporting, collapsible shelter 12. More particularly,
the present invention relates to an improved frame 10 for a
collapsible shelter 12 that is light-weight and self-supporting and
convenient to erect and collapse.
[0069] The invention is at least partly predicated on the
inventor's unexpected discovery that the use of inexpensive
over-centre hinges 14 to connect the support sections 16 of support
members 18 of the frame 10 of a collapsible shelter 12 in the form
of a tent is sufficient to make the frame 10 self-supporting under
the weight of the shelter 12. This has the surprising advantage of
making the frame 10 and therefore the self-supporting shelter 12
easy to both erect and collapse, as well as cost-effective to
produce. This is counterintuitive, as many quick-pitch tents are
designed to withstand wind and other adverse conditions by
including locking hinges to prevent the tent from collapsing.
Generally, tent designers and manufacturers of currently available
tents prefer to provide a tent that does not collapse easily. The
frame 10 of the present invention, in contrast, is easy to collapse
with one person able to simply bend the over-centre hinges joints
14, with one hand if necessary, thereby folding the light-weight
frame 10 of the invention, and therefore the collapsible shelter
12, into the collapsed condition.
[0070] As shown in the Figures, a first embodiment of the invention
provides an improved frame 10 for a collapsible shelter 12 in the
form of a tent, shaped and dimensioned to house two people. The
frame 10 comprises a plurality of support members 18, each support
member 18 comprising a plurality of elongate support sections 16 in
co-linear arrangement and connected by over-centre non-locking
hinged joints 14. The support members 18 are made from a
light-weight material such as plastic and/or glass reinforced
plastic. The frame 10 is operable between an erected
self-supporting condition wherein the hinged joints 14 are in an
open over-centre condition, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and a
collapsed condition wherein the hinged joints 14 close into a
closed condition, as shown in FIG. 3. When the frame 10 is in the
erected condition, as shown in FIGS. 7 to 9, the support members 18
form an arch. When the frame 10 is in the collapsed condition (not
shown) the support members 18 are folded against one another.
[0071] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the over-centre hinges 14
comprise a hinge hook 20 disposed at the end of a first support
section 22 and a hinge channel 24 at the opposing end of a
neighbouring second support section 26, longitudinally disposed
thereto. The hinge channel 24 has a pivot pin 28 that extends
across the hinge channel 24, transverse to the second support
section 26, and a hinge shoulder 30 at the end of the hinge channel
24. The hinge hook 20 engages the pivot pin 28. In use, the hinged
joints 14 are opened by a user pivoting the hinge hook 20 about the
pivot pin 28 until the first support section 22 abuts the hinge
shoulder 30 of the second support section 26 and the hinged joint
14 is in an open over-centre condition. To close the hinged joint
14, a user simply pushes against the hinged joint 14 so that the
hinge hook 20 is pivoted about the pivot pin 28 until the first
support section 22 no longer abuts the hinge shoulder 30 of the
second support section 26 and the hinged joint 14 is in the closed
condition.
[0072] The frame 10 further comprises a roof plate 32 in co-linear
arrangement with the elongate support sections and to which the
neighbouring elongate support sections are pivotally or hingedly
attached in a radial arrangement (FIG. 4). The frame 10 further
comprises frame anchors 34 (FIGS. 5 and 6) for releasably receiving
the ends of the support members 18. Each frame anchor 34 is in the
form of a planar tab and comprises one or more holes 80 for
releasably receiving and securing the ends of the support members
18. In this embodiment, each frame anchor 34 is connected to the
flexible sheet material 36 by a connector 35 in the form of a
length of tape which is attached to the flexible sheet material 36
and which passes through a slot 34.1 in the frame anchor 34. In
another embodiment, such as that shown in FIG. 10, each frame
anchor 34 is connected to the flexible sheet material 36 by a
connector 35 in the form of a length of elastic which is attached
to the flexible sheet material 36 and which passes through a slot
34.1 in the frame anchor 34.
[0073] In a further embodiment, such as that shown in FIG. 11, the
frame further comprises a clip 37 which is engageable with a
support member 18 and which comprises at least one slot 37.1. In
the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the connector 35 is in the form of
a length of tape or elastic having two ends 35.1, 35.2 wherein each
end 35.1, 35.2 is attached to the flexible sheet material 36 and
the tape or elastic passes through slot 34.1 in the frame anchor 34
and slot 37.1 in the clip 37. That is, one end 35.1 of the tape or
elastic is attached to the flexible sheet material 36 at a first
point 36.1 and the other end 35.2 of the tape or elastic is
attached to the flexible sheet material 36 at another point 36.2.
The tape or elastic passes through a slot 34.1 in the frame anchor
34 and through a slot 37.1 in the clip 37.
[0074] In a first embodiment, the frame 10 further comprises a
flexible sheet material 36, made from light-weight waterproof
material such as nylon, polycotton and/or polyester, which is
attached to, and suspended from, the frame 10. When in the erected
condition, the flexible sheet material 36 hangs from the frame 10
and is held taut or tensioned thereby. The flexible sheet material
36 is attached to the frame 10 by way of sleeves 38 through which
the support members 18 pass and which are attached to, or integral
with, the flexible sheet material 36. The sleeves 38 allow the
flexible sheet material 36 to slide along the length of the support
members 18.
[0075] The flexible sheet material 36 is formed in the shape of a
tent with a generally domed shape with a roof 40 and side walls 42.
A door 44 and a window 46 are each formed by a zip (not shown) in
the flexible sheet material 36. The flexible sheet material 36
further comprises a floor 48 that formed from contiguous material,
is substantially oblong in configuration and comprises a sewn-in
groundsheet made from polyethylene. The flexible sheet material 36
further comprises ties (not shown) for securing the door 44 or
window 46 when rolled up and not in use.
[0076] In the first embodiment, the flexible sheet material 36
further comprises door 44 and/or window 46 screens, comprising a
second layer of flexible sheet material (not shown) over the door
44 and window 46, formed by zips (not shown). The flexible sheet
material 36 further comprises a fly 50, positioned adjacent to the
flexible sheet material 36. The frame 10 further includes a guy
assembly 52.
[0077] As will be appreciated, when in the erected condition, the
frame 10 is self-supporting under the weight of the frame 10 and
the flexible sheet material 36, which maintains the hinged joints
14 in the open over-centre condition, and any additional loads that
may be caused by rain etc., which bears against the over-centre
hinged joints. The flexible material 36 is typically stretched taut
or tensioned against, around or over the frame 10, thereby
assisting in keeping the frame 10 in the erected condition.
[0078] The first embodiment of a frame 10 of the invention for a
collapsible shelter 12 in the form of a tent is shown in the
erected condition in FIGS. 7 and 8.
[0079] FIG. 9 shows a frame 10 according to a fourth embodiment of
the invention for a collapsible shelter 124 in the form of a tent
shaped and dimensioned to house six people.
[0080] As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, in another preferred
embodiment, the frame further comprises one or more compression
damper 54. Each compression damper 54 is located at an end of a
support member 18 such that a support member 18 has a compression
damper 54 at one or both ends thereof, adjacent to each foot anchor
34 and engageable therewith. Each compression damper 54 comprises a
tube 56 in which an end 19 of a support member 18 is co-linearly
and slidably receivable, piston-fashion. The tube 56 is connected
to a frame anchor 34 at one end and comprises a tube neck 58 at the
other end. The tube 56 defines an elongate damping chamber 60
therein. The support member 18 comprises a shoulder 84 which
extends transversely from the support member 18 and is located
within the damping chamber 60.
[0081] A spring 62 is co-linearly disposed within the elongate
damping chamber 60. A pair of stoppers 64, 66 are opposedly
disposed within the elongate damping chamber 60. One of the pair of
stoppers 64, 66, the operatively upper stopper 64, is connected on
the end of the support member 18 and comprises a lug 72 which
extends into one end of the spring 62. The other of the pair of
stoppers 64, 66, the operatively lower stopper 66, is inserted into
the end of the tube 56 and is connected to the foot anchor 34. The
lower stopper 66 comprises a lug 74, which extends into the other
end of the spring 62, a stopper base 76 which is
cross-dimensionally wider than the stopper 66, and a coaxially
extending pin 68.
[0082] In some embodiments, the stopper 66, stopper base 76 and pin
68 are integral, forming a contiguous stopper body 78. In these
embodiments, the stopper body 78 further comprises a
circumferential lip 82 against which the end of the tube 56
abutts.
[0083] The pin 68 extends through a hole 80 in the foot anchor 34
and is retained in place by a cap 70. In some embodiments, the pin
68 and the cap 70 are threadably engaged. In other embodiments, the
pin 68 and the cap 70 are engaged by an interference fit.
[0084] In use, embodiments of the invention comprising one or more
compression dampers are assembled into the erect condition by
sliding the support member 18 into the tube 56 thereby compressing
the spring 62 which bears against the pair of opposed stoppers 64,
66. The user then places the pin 68 in the hole 80 of the foot
anchor 34 and connects the cap 70 to the pin 68.
[0085] Upon the user releasing the support member 18, the spring 62
expands thereby bearing against the stopper 64 and pushing the
support member 18 out of the tube 56 until the neck 58 of the tube
56 bears against the shoulder 84 of the support member 18. The
support member 18 is thus retained in an erect condition, thereby
pulling the flexible sheet material 36 taut. The taut or tensioned
flexible sheet material 36 thereby assists in keeping the frame 10
in the erected condition.
[0086] To collapse embodiments comprising a compression damper 54,
a user disengages the cap 70 from the pin 68 and slides the support
member 18 into the tube 56, thereby compressing the spring 62. The
spring 62 bears against the pair of opposed stoppers 64, 66. The
user then removes the pin 68 from the hole 80 of the foot anchor
34. The frame 10 is then collapsed into the collapsed condition and
the flexible sheet material 36 folded.
[0087] In some embodiments, the frame assembly of the invention has
a connector 35 and a compression damper 54 located on each end of a
support member 18.
[0088] FIG. 14 shows a fifth embodiment of the invention in the
form of a sunshelter. In this embodiment, the frame 10 further
comprises a stabilising member 86 which comprises a plurality of
elongate support sections 16 in co-linear arrangement and connected
by over-centre hinged joints 14 in a similar fashion to the support
members 18. However, there the support members 18 form an arch, the
stabilising member 86 forms part of an arch. In the embodiment
shown in FIG. 14, the frame 10 has one support member 18 and one
stabilising member 86.
[0089] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 15 to 20, the
plurality of elongate support sections 16 are alternately connected
by over-centre hinged joints 14 and slidable hinged joints 88,
wherein the over-centre hinged joints 14 are outwardly facing
relative to the frame 10 and the slidable hinged joints 88 are
inwardly facing relative to the frame 10.
[0090] As shown in FIGS. 17 to 20, each slidable hinged joint 88
comprises a hinge channel 24 comprising a hinge shoulder 30 and a
pivot pin 28, and a sliding portion 90 comprising an elongate slot
92 having a pivot end 94 and a non-pivot end 96 wherein the hinge
channel 24 is longitudinally disposed at the end of the second
support section 26, the pivot pin 28 is transversely disposed
across the hinge channel 24 and connected thereto, and the sliding
portion 90 is longitudinally disposed at the end of a third support
section 102. The elongate slot 92 is longitudinally disposed along
the sliding portion 90 and receives the pivot pin 28 transversely
therein.
[0091] In use, when the frame 10 is in the erected self-supporting
condition, the over-centre hinged joints 14 are outwardly facing
and in the open over-centre condition, and the slidable hinged
joints 88 are inwardly facing and in the open condition. In these
embodiments, when the frame 10 is in the collapsed condition, the
over-centre hinged joints 14 are in the closed condition, the
slidable hinged joints 88 are in the closed condition, and the
support members 18 are folded concertina fashion.
[0092] In some embodiments, such as that shown in FIG. 20, each
slidable hinged joint 88 further comprises a pair of lugs 98
opposedly disposed on the sliding portion 90 and extending from
either side thereof, and a pair of corresponding recesses 100
disposed in the hinge channel 24. The lugs 98 are receivable in the
corresponding recesses 100. The lugs 98 are adjacent the elongate
slot 92 on the sliding portion 90, and spaced therefrom.
[0093] In use, as shown in FIGS. 15 to 20, the slidable hinged
joint 88 is operable between a closed condition wherein the pivot
pin 28 is received in the elongate slot 92 at the pivot end 94
thereof and the lugs 98 are not received in the recesses 100, and
an open condition wherein the pivot pin 28 is received in the
elongate slot 92 at the non-pivot end 96 thereof and the lugs 98
are received in the recesses 100.
[0094] In embodiments of the invention in which the plurality of
elongate support sections 16 are alternately connected by
over-centre hinged joints 14 and slidable hinged joints 88, the
frame is advantageously easy and convenient for a single user to
erect into the erected self-supporting condition and collapse into
the closed condition with minimal straining, pulling and/or tearing
of the flexible sheet material 36.
[0095] Although the descriptions of various embodiments of the
invention herein provided are concerned generally with camping
tents, for example, those persons skilled in the art will recognize
the wider applicability of the inventive features disclosed
herein.
[0096] The collapsible shelter of the invention is advantageously
simple and cost-effective to manufacture, as the over-centre hinges
used to connect the support sections of the frame support members
can be made of inexpensive plastic material.
[0097] Furthermore, since all of the components of the frame are
always associated with the flexible sheet material of the shelter,
component parts are kept together and are not easily lost.
[0098] The shelter is not only relatively easy to erect but it is
significantly easier to collapse compared to currently available
tents and conveniently collapses into a compact shape and size for
easy storage. The use of over-centre hinges, connectors and/or
compression dampers in the frame assembly of the invention
facilitate easy and convenient assembly and collapse of the frame
by a user.
[0099] To be clear, the shelter of the invention provides a
cost-effective and simple frame that is easy to assemble and erect,
and which is held in the erected condition by the over-centre
hinges. The flexible sheet material, when taut or tensioned
against, around, or over the frame assists in keeping the frame
erect. Unlike other available shelters and/or tents, the shelter of
the invention does not rely on springs, rivets or spars to maintain
it in the erected condition.
[0100] Where the terms "comprise", "comprises", "comprised" or
"comprising" are used in this specification, they are to be
interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features,
integers, steps or components referred to, but not to preclude the
presence or addition of one or more other feature, integer, step,
component or group thereof.
[0101] Throughout the specification the aim has been to describe
the invention without limiting the invention to any one embodiment
or specific collection of features. Persons skilled in the relevant
art may realize variations from the specific embodiments that will
nonetheless fall within the scope of the invention.
[0102] The terms and expressions which have been employed herein
are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there
is no intention in the use of such terms and expressions of
excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described or
portions thereof, but it is recognized that various modifications
are possible within the scope of the invention claimed. Thus, it
should be understood that although the present invention has been
specifically disclosed by preferred embodiments, exemplary
embodiments and optional features, modification and variation of
the concepts herein disclosed may be resorted to by those skilled
in the art, and that such modifications and variations are
considered to be within the scope of this invention. The specific
embodiments provided herein are examples of useful embodiments of
the present invention and it will be apparent to one skilled in the
art that the present invention may be carried out using a large
number of variations of the devices, device components, methods and
steps set forth in the present description. As will be obvious to
one of skill in the art, methods and devices useful for the present
embodiments can include a large number of optional device
components, compositions, materials, combinations and processing
elements and steps.
[0103] Every device, system, combination of components or method
described or exemplified herein can be used to practice the
invention, unless otherwise stated.
[0104] When a group of substituents is disclosed herein, it is
understood that all individual members of that group and all
subgroups, including any device components, combinations, materials
and/or compositions of the group members, are disclosed separately.
When a Markush group or other grouping is used herein, all
individual members of the group and all combinations and
subcombinations possible of the group are intended to be
individually included in the disclosure.
[0105] As used herein, "comprising" is synonymous with "including,"
"containing," or "characterized by," and is inclusive or open-ended
and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method
steps. As used herein, "consisting of" excludes any element, step,
or ingredient not specified in the claim element. As used herein,
"consisting essentially of" does not exclude materials or steps
that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics
of the claim. In each instance herein any of the terms
"comprising", "consisting essentially of" and "consisting of" may
be replaced with either of the other two terms. The invention
illustratively described herein suitably may be practiced in the
absence of any element or elements and/or limitation or
limitations, which are not specifically disclosed herein.
[0106] One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that
compositions, materials, components, methods and/or processing
steps other than those specifically exemplified can be employed in
the practice of the invention without resort to undue
experimentation. All art-known functional equivalents, of any such
compositions, materials, components, methods and/or processing
steps are intended to be included in this invention. The terms and
expressions which have been employed are used as terms of
description and not of limitation, and there is no intention in the
use of such terms and expressions of excluding any equivalents of
the features shown and described or portions thereof, but it is
recognized that various modifications are within the scope of the
invention claimed. Thus, it should be understood that although the
present invention has been specifically disclosed by exemplary
embodiments and optional features, modification and variation of
the concepts herein disclosed may be resorted to by those skilled
in the art, and that such modifications and variations are
considered to be within the scope of this invention as defined by
the appended claims.
[0107] It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended
claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural
reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for
example, reference to "a spring" includes a plurality of springs
and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so
forth. As well, the terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more" and "at
least one" can be used interchangeably herein. It is also to be
noted that the terms "comprising", "including", and "having" can be
used interchangeably.
[0108] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although
any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described
herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present
invention, the preferred methods and materials are described.
* * * * *