U.S. patent application number 16/136581 was filed with the patent office on 2021-07-08 for fold-out transportable partial or complete enclosure.
The applicant listed for this patent is AWOL Outdoors, Inc.. Invention is credited to Jon Bartelt, Scott Davidson, Kevin Fleischhacker, Kevin McGregor, Shawn McGregor, Cedar Vandergon.
Application Number | 20210206310 16/136581 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005666481 |
Filed Date | 2021-07-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210206310 |
Kind Code |
A9 |
McGregor; Shawn ; et
al. |
July 8, 2021 |
FOLD-OUT TRANSPORTABLE PARTIAL OR COMPLETE ENCLOSURE
Abstract
A transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure includes in
one aspect of the invention a stationary platform having a major
surface defining a stationary plane, a plurality of side edges, a
front edge and a back edge. A primary platform has a major surface
defining a primary plane, an inside edge, an outside edge, a front
edge, a back edge, the inside edge being joined to the stationary
platform, the primary platform having a folded position in which
the primary plane and stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal,
and the primary platform having an extended position where the
primary platform is unfolded from the stationary platform. An end
wall assembly has at least two segments, each segment having a
major surface defining a segment plane, side edges, a top edge and
a bottom edge, the side edges of the segments being joined to each
other, the bottom edges of each segment being joined to one of the
stationary platform and the primary platform. The end wall assembly
has an extended position in which the segment planes are at an
angle to form a wall to both the stationary plane and the primary
plane, and the end wall assembly having a folded position. At least
one actuating mechanism is joined to at least one of the segments
and the stationary platform or the primary platform to which said
at least one of the segments is joined, said at least one actuating
mechanism configured to provide a force to urge said at least one
of the segments to the extended position.
Inventors: |
McGregor; Shawn; (Brooklyn
Park, MN) ; Fleischhacker; Kevin; (Mound, MN)
; Davidson; Scott; (Spring Grove, IL) ; Bartelt;
Jon; (Minneapolis, MN) ; Vandergon; Cedar;
(New Brighton, MN) ; McGregor; Kevin; (St. Louis
Park, MN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
AWOL Outdoors, Inc. |
Somerset |
WI |
US |
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|
Prior
Publication: |
|
Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20190118696 A1 |
April 25, 2019 |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005666481 |
Appl. No.: |
16/136581 |
Filed: |
September 20, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
PCT/US2017/023251 |
Mar 20, 2017 |
|
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16136581 |
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62310727 |
Mar 20, 2016 |
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62373124 |
Aug 10, 2016 |
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62429075 |
Dec 2, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60S 9/02 20130101; B60P
3/34 20130101; B62D 63/061 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B60P 3/34 20060101
B60P003/34; B62D 63/06 20060101 B62D063/06 |
Claims
1. A transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure, comprising:
a stationary platform having a major surface defining a stationary
plane, a plurality of side edges, a front edge and a back edge; a
primary platform having a major surface defining a primary plane,
an inside edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a back edge, the
inside edge being joined to the stationary platform, the primary
platform having a folded position in which the primary plane and
stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal, and the primary
platform having an extended position where the primary platform is
unfolded from the stationary platform; an end wall assembly having
at least two segments, each segment having a major surface defining
a segment plane, side edges, a top edge and a bottom edge, the side
edges of the segments being joined to each other, the bottom edges
of each segment being joined to one of the stationary platform and
the primary platform, the end wall assembly having an extended
position in which the segment planes are at an angle to form a wall
to both the stationary plane and the primary plane, and the end
wall assembly having a folded position; and at least one actuating
mechanism joined to at least one of the segments and the stationary
platform or the primary platform to which said at least one of the
segments is joined, said at least one actuating mechanism
configured to provide a force to urge said at least one of the
segments to the extended position.
2. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim 1
wherein said actuating mechanism is further configured to provide a
force resisting lowering of said one of the segments to the folded
position.
3. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim 2
wherein said actuating mechanism comprises a spring.
4. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim 3
wherein the spring comprises a torsion spring.
5. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim 4
wherein said at least one of the segments is joined the bottom edge
thereof to the front edge of to one of the stationary platform and
the primary platform with a hinge, said torsion spring having a
first element joined to a center spring section at a first portion
and a second element joined to a second portion of the center
spring section opposite the first portion, the center spring
section disposed adjacent the hinge.
6. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim 5
wherein the center spring section is elongated with the center
spring section being oriented parallel to the hinge.
7. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim 6
wherein the first element is elongated and extends away from the
center section parallel to a side edge of said at least one of the
segments, and wherein the second element is elongated and extends
away from the center section parallel to a side edge of said at
least one of the stationary platform and the primary platform.
8. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim 7
wherein side edges of the segments are joined together with a
hinge.
9. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim 8
wherein said spring is configured to act upon only a first segment
of the segments and the hinge joining the segments along the side
edges thereof is configured to lift and lower a second segment of
the segments.
10. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim
3 wherein the spring comprises a tension or compression spring.
11. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim
1 wherein side edges of the segments are joined together with a
hinge.
12. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim
11 wherein said at least one actuating mechanism is configured to
act upon only a first segment of the segments and the hinge joining
the segments along the side edges thereof is configured to lift and
lower a second segment of the segments.
13. A transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure,
comprising: a stationary platform having a major surface defining a
stationary plane, a plurality of side edges, a front edge and a
back edge; a primary platform having a major surface defining a
primary plane, an inside edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a
back edge, the inside edge being joined to the stationary platform,
the primary platform having a folded position in which the primary
plane and stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal, and the
primary platform having an extended position where the primary
platform is unfolded from the stationary platform; a vertical
support secured to the stationary platform to have a portion above
a level of the stationary platform; at least one lift mechanism
configured to lift the primary platform from the extended position
at least toward the folded position.
14. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim
13 wherein the lift mechanism has a first end operably coupled to
the portion and a second end operably coupled to the primary
platform at a position lateral of the portion so as to form a line
of action extending from the first end to the second end that is
oblique to the vertical support.
15. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim
13 and further comprising an end wall assembly having two segments,
each segment having a major surface defining a segment plane, side
edges, a top edge and a bottom edge, the side edges of the segments
being joined to each other, the bottom edges of each segment being
joined to one of the stationary platform and the primary platform,
the end wall assembly having an extended position in which the
segment planes are at an angle to both the stationary plane and the
primary plane, and the end wall assembly having a folded
position;
16. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim
13 wherein the lift mechanism comprises a flexible member extending
from the portion to the second end.
17. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim
13 wherein the lift mechanism comprises telescoping actuator.
18. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim
17 wherein the telescoping actuator comprises a pre-charged gas
actuator.
19. A transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure,
comprising: a frame; a stationary platform joined to the frame and
having a major surface defining a stationary plane, a plurality of
side edges, a front edge and a back edge; two primary platforms,
each primary platform having a major surface defining a primary
plane, an inside edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a back edge,
the inside edge each primary platform being joined to the
stationary platform, each primary platform having a folded position
in which the associated primary plane and stationary plane are
oblique or orthogonal, and each primary platform having an extended
position where the primary platform is unfolded from the stationary
platform; an end wall assembly having three segments, each segment
having a major surface defining a segment plane, side edges, a top
edge and a bottom edge, the side edges of the segments being joined
to each other, the bottom edges of each segment being joined to one
of the stationary platform and the primary platforms, the end wall
assembly having an extended position in which the segment planes
are at an angle to both the stationary plane and the primary plane,
and the end wall assembly having a folded position, wherein the
segment joined to the either the stationary platform of the primary
platform includes an opening; a partial storage enclosure mounted
to frame having walls forming an aperture aligned with the opening
in the segment.
20. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure of claim
19 wherein the partial storage enclosure includes opposed side
edges, wherein each side edge is aligned with one of the front
edges of the primary platforms in the folded position.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application is a continuation of and claims
priority of International patent application Serial No.
PCT/US2017/023251, filed Mar. 20, 2017, and published in English as
WO 2017/165314 the content of which is hereby incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The discussion below is merely provided for general
background information and is not intended to be used as an aid in
determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[0003] Various forms of portable enclosures used during travel for
providing a living space have been around for ages. Covered wagons
can be considered one form, but more recent times have rendered the
"pop-up" or "fold-out" vehicle pulled trailer in which the trailer
has a couple positions, a compacted travel position and an expanded
use position. In addition to trailers, various forms of campers
have been mounted to the bed or box of a pickup.
[0004] Early on, fuel consumption for the vehicle towing or
carrying the camper was of relatively low concern. As fuel
consumption rose and the expense of fuel reached new levels,
society became more interested in energy efficiency. This trend
expanded into an awareness of the need to protect the environment
from wasteful uses of fuel. Trailers or large pickup mounted
campers that are in a shape to provide a large living space while
moving are at odds with fuel efficiency. In addition, large
trailers or pickup mounted campers are difficult to store and
transport.
SUMMARY
[0005] This Summary and the Abstract herein are provided to
introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are
further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary
and the Abstract are not intended to identify key features or
essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor are they
intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the
claimed subject matter. The claimed subject matter is not limited
to implementations that solve any or all disadvantages noted in the
Background.
[0006] Aspects of the invention will be described with respect to a
fold-out transportable partial or complete enclosure that in one
embodiment is particularly advantageously used as a camper such as
but not limited to be mounted to a trailer. However, it should be
understood that a trailer mounted fold-out camper is but one
embodiment where aspects of the invention can be incorporated on
other folding or expanding trailers, or on other forms of trailers
that are not necessarily used for camping or even on equipment that
is generally pulled by another vehicle or device. Likewise aspects
of the invention can be used as a fold-out partial or complete
enclosure mounted to a vehicle such as a pickup, truck or boat or
merely carried by such vehicles or trailers and when deployed is
deployed away from the transport vehicle or trailer.
[0007] One general aspect includes a transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure, including: a stationary platform having a
major surface defining a stationary plane, a plurality of side
edges, a front edge and a back edge; a primary platform having a
major surface defining a primary plane, an inside edge, an outside
edge, a front edge, a back edge, the inside edge being joined to
the stationary platform, the primary platform having a folded
position in which the primary plane and stationary plane are
oblique or orthogonal, and the primary platform having an extended
position where the primary platform is unfolded from the stationary
platform; an end wall assembly having at least two segments, each
segment having a major surface defining a segment plane, side
edges, a top edge and a bottom edge, the side edges of the segments
being joined to each other, the bottom edges of each segment being
joined to one of the stationary platform and the primary platform,
the end wall assembly having an extended position in which the
segment planes are at an angle to form a wall to both the
stationary plane and the primary plane, and the end wall assembly
having a folded position; and at least one actuating mechanism
joined to at least one of the segments and the stationary platform
or the primary platform to which said at least one of the segments
is joined, said at least one actuating mechanism configured to
provide a force to urge said at least one of the segments to the
extended position.
[0008] A second general aspect includes a transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure, including: a frame. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes a stationary
platform joined to the frame and having a major surface defining a
stationary plane, a plurality of side edges, a front edge and a
back edge. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
also includes a primary platform having a major surface defining a
primary plane, an inside edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a
back edge, the inside edge being joined to the stationary platform,
the primary platform having a folded position in which the primary
plane and stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal, and the
primary platform having an extended position where the primary
platform is unfolded from the stationary platform. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes an
end wall assembly having at least two segments, each segment having
a major surface defining a segment plane, side edges, a top edge
and a bottom edge, the side edges of the segments being joined to
each other, the bottom edges of each segment being joined to one of
the stationary platform and the primary platform, the end wall
assembly having an extended position in which the segment planes
are at an angle to form a wall to both the stationary plane and the
primary plane, and the end wall assembly having a folded position.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes
at least one actuating mechanism joined to at least one of the
segments and the stationary platform or the primary platform to
which said at least one of the segments is joined, said at least
one actuating mechanism configured to provide a force to urge said
at least one of the segments to the extended position.
[0009] Implementations of the first and second general aspects may
include one or more of the following features. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where side edges of the
segments are joined together with a hinge. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where said spring is configured
to act upon only a first segment of the segments and the hinge
joining the segments along the side edges thereof is configured to
lift and lower a second segment of the segments. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where said actuating mechanism
is further configured to provide a force resisting lowering of said
one of the segments to the folded position. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where said actuating mechanism
includes a spring. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the spring includes a torsion spring. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the spring
includes a tension or compression spring. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where said at least one of the
segments is joined the bottom edge thereof to the front edge of to
one of the stationary platform and the primary platform with a
hinge, said torsion spring having a first element joined to a
center spring section at a first portion and a second element
joined to a second portion of the center spring section opposite
the first portion, the center spring section disposed adjacent the
hinge. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where
the center spring section is elongated with the center spring
section being oriented parallel to the hinge. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the first element is
elongated and extends away from the center section parallel to a
side edge of said at least one of the segments, and where the
second element is elongated and extends away from the center
section parallel to a side edge of said at least one of the
stationary platform and the primary platform. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where side edges of the
segments are joined together with a hinge. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where said at least one
actuating mechanism is configured to act upon only a first segment
of the segments and the hinge joining the segments along the side
edges thereof is configured to lift and lower a second segment of
the segments. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where each of said actuating mechanisms is further configured to
provide a force resisting lowering each associated end wall
assembly to the folded position. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where each segment bottom edge is joined to
the associated front edge or back edge of the stationary platform
and the primary platform with a hinge, each actuating mechanism
having a first element joined to a center section at a first
portion and a second element joined to a second portion of the
center section opposite the first portion, where a first actuating
mechanism has a center section disposed adjacent one of the hinges
along the front edges and where a second actuating mechanism has a
center section disposed adjacent one of the hinges along the back
edges. The fold-old at least partial enclosure and further
including a third actuating mechanism and a fourth actuation
mechanism, each of the third and fourth actuating mechanisms having
a first element joined to a center section at a first portion and a
second element joined to a second portion of the center section
opposite the first portion, where the third actuating mechanism has
a center section disposed adjacent one of the hinges along the
front edges and where the fourth actuating mechanism has a center
section disposed adjacent one of the hinges along the back edges.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where each
first element is elongated and extends away from the associated
center section parallel to a side edge of one of the segments of
the associated first and second end wall assemblies, and where each
second element is elongated and extends away from the center
section parallel to a side edge of one of the segments of the
associated one of the stationary platform and the primary platform.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the
first and third actuating mechanisms are operatively joined to
outermost segments of the first end wall assembly and to the
primary platforms, and where the first and third actuating
mechanisms are operatively joined to outermost segments of the
second end wall assembly and to the primary platforms. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where each
actuating mechanism includes a spring. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where each spring includes a torsion
spring. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where
each center spring section is elongated with the center spring
section being oriented parallel to the associated hinge joining the
associated segment to the associated primary platform.
[0010] A third general aspect includes a transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure, including: an at least partial enclosure
frame having a hitch. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure also includes a stationary platform joined to the at
least partial enclosure frame and having a major surface defining a
stationary plane, a plurality of side edges, a front edge and a
back edge. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
also includes a pair of primary platforms, each primary platform
having a major surface defining a primary plane, an inside edge, an
outside edge, a front edge, a back edge, the inside edge being
joined to one of side edges of the stationary platform such that
the primary platforms are joined to opposite side edges of the
stationary platform, each primary platform having a folded position
in which the primary plane and stationary plane are oblique or
orthogonal, and each primary platform having an extended position
where the primary platform is unfolded from the stationary
platform. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
also includes a pair of end wall assemblies where a first end wall
assembly is joined to front edges of the primary and stationary
platforms and a second end wall assembly is joined to back edges of
the primary and stationary platforms, each end wall assembly having
three segments, each segment having a major surface defining a
segment plane, side edges, a top edge and a bottom edge, the side
edges of each pair of adjacent segments being joined to each other,
the bottom edges of each segment being joined to one of front or
back edges of the stationary platform and the primary platforms,
each end wall assembly having an extended position in which the
segment planes are at an angle to both the stationary plane and the
primary plane, and each end wall assembly having a folded position.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes
a plurality of actuating mechanisms where a first actuating
mechanism is joined to at least one of the segments of the first
end wall assembly and the stationary platform or the primary
platform to which said at least one of the segments of the first
end wall assembly is joined, and where a second actuating mechanism
is joined to at least one of the segments of the second end wall
assembly and the stationary platform or the primary platform to
which said at least one of the segments of the second end wall
assembly is joined, each of said actuating mechanisms configured to
provide a force to urge each associated end wall assembly to the
extended position.
[0011] Implementations of the third general aspect may include one
or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where each of said actuating mechanisms is
further configured to provide a force resisting lowering each
associated end wall assembly to the folded position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where each
segment bottom edge is joined to the associated front edge or back
edge of the stationary platform and the primary platform with a
hinge, each actuating mechanism having a first element joined to a
center section at a first portion and a second element joined to a
second portion of the center section opposite the first portion,
where a first actuating mechanism has a center section disposed
adjacent one of the hinges along the front edges and where a second
actuating mechanism has a center section disposed adjacent one of
the hinges along the back edges. The fold-old at least partial
enclosure and further including a third actuating mechanism and a
fourth actuation mechanism, each of the third and fourth actuating
mechanisms having a first element joined to a center section at a
first portion and a second element joined to a second portion of
the center section opposite the first portion, where the third
actuating mechanism has a center section disposed adjacent one of
the hinges along the front edges and where the fourth actuating
mechanism has a center section disposed adjacent one of the hinges
along the back edges. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where each first element is elongated and extends away
from the associated center section parallel to a side edge of one
of the segments of the associated first and second end wall
assemblies, and where each second element is elongated and extends
away from the center section parallel to a side edge of one of the
segments of the associated one of the stationary platform and the
primary platform. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the first and third actuating mechanisms are
operatively joined to outermost segments of the first end wall
assembly and to the primary platforms, and where the first and
third actuating mechanisms are operatively joined to outermost
segments of the second end wall assembly and to the primary
platforms. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where each actuating mechanism includes a spring. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where each spring includes a
torsion spring. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where each center spring section is elongated with the
center spring section being oriented parallel to the associated
hinge joining the associated segment to the associated primary
platform.
[0012] A fourth general aspect includes a transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure, including: a stationary platform having a
major surface defining a stationary plane, a plurality of side
edges, a front edge and a back edge; a primary platform having a
major surface defining a primary plane, an inside edge, an outside
edge, a front edge, a back edge, the inside edge being joined to
the stationary platform, the primary platform having a folded
position in which the primary plane and stationary plane are
oblique or orthogonal, and the primary platform having an extended
position where the primary platform is unfolded from the stationary
platform; a vertical support secured to the stationary platform to
have a portion above a level of the stationary platform; at least
one lift mechanism configured to lift the primary platform from the
extended position at least toward the folded position.
[0013] Implementations of the fourth general aspect may include one
or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the lift mechanism has a first end
operably coupled to the portion and a second end operably coupled
to the primary platform at a position lateral of the portion so as
to form a line of action extending from the first end to the second
end that is oblique to the vertical support. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure and further including an end
wall assembly having two segments, each segment having a major
surface defining a segment plane, side edges, a top edge and a
bottom edge, the side edges of the segments being joined to each
other, the bottom edges of each segment being joined to one of the
stationary platform and the primary platform, the end wall assembly
having an extended position in which the segment planes are at an
angle to both the stationary plane and the primary plane, and the
end wall assembly having a folded position; The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the lift mechanism
includes a flexible member extending from the portion to the second
end. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and a
pulley coupled to the portion, the flexible member traveling over
the pulley when the flexible member lifts the primary platform. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and an actuator
configured to extend and retract the flexible member. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the
actuator includes a hoist. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where the lift mechanism includes telescoping
actuator. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the telescoping actuator includes a pre-charged gas actuator.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the
telescoping actuator includes a piston movable in a cylinder joined
to one of the portion or the primary platform, the lift mechanism
further including a source of pressurized fluid coupled to the
cylinder to selectively pressurize a chamber formed by the piston
in the cylinder in order to displace the piston in the cylinder.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the
telescoping actuator includes a threaded rod and a member
threadably engaging the threaded rod, the member joined to one of
the portion or the primary platform. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the telescoping actuator is pivotally
joined to the portion and pivotally joined to the primary platform.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the
lift mechanism includes a spring. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the spring includes a tension or
compression spring. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the primary platform is of a length to obscure
viewing of the lift mechanism in the folded position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the lift
mechanism is located in an elongated, vertically oriented cavity
when the primary platform is in the folded position, a portion of
the primary platform along the front edge of the primary platform
forming a cover over the elongated, vertically oriented cavity to
obscure the lift mechanism in the folded position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and further
including: a second primary platform having a major surface
defining a primary plane, an inside edge, an outside edge, a front
edge, a back edge, the inside edge being joined to the stationary
platform on a side edge opposite the primary platform, the second
primary platform having a folded position in which the primary
plane and stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal, and the
second primary platform having an extended position where the
primary platform is unfolded from the stationary platform; and a
second lift mechanism configured to lift the second primary
platform from the extended position at least toward the folded
position. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the second lift mechanism has a first end operably coupled to
the portion and a second end operably coupled to the second primary
platform at a position lateral of the portion so as to form a
second line of action extending from the first end to the second
end that is oblique to the vertical support and lateral of the
joined side edges of the stationary platform and the second primary
platform.
[0014] A fifth general aspect includes a transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure, including: a stationary platform having a
major surface defining a stationary plane, a plurality of side
edges, a front edge and a back edge; a pair of primary platforms,
each primary platform having a major surface defining a primary
plane, an inside edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a back edge,
the inside edge being joined to one of side edges of the stationary
platform such that the primary platforms are joined to opposite
side edges of the stationary platform, each primary platform having
a folded position in which the primary plane and stationary plane
are oblique or orthogonal, and each primary platform having an
extended position where the primary platform is unfolded from the
stationary platform; a pair of end wall assemblies where a first
end wall assembly is joined to front edges of the primary and
stationary platforms and a second end wall assembly is joined to
back edges of the primary and stationary platforms, each end wall
assembly having three segments, each segment having a major surface
defining a segment plane, side edges, a top edge and a bottom edge,
the side edges of each pair of adjacent segments being joined to
each other, the bottom edges of each segment being joined to one of
front or back edges of the stationary platform and the primary
platforms, each end wall assembly having an extended position in
which the segment planes are at an angle to both the stationary
plane and the primary plane, and each end wall assembly having a
folded position; at least one strut configured to extend between
and engaging surfaces of the end wall assemblies that face each
other when each is in the extended position, the at least one strut
having a storage position where the strut is at least partially
removably is held against one end wall assembly when said one end
wall assembly is moving between the storage position and the
extended position.
[0015] Implementations of the fifth general aspect may include one
or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the at least one strut is pivotally
joined at a first end to said one end wall assembly. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and further
including at least one a holding device secured to said one end
wall assembly to hold at least one portion of the at least one
strut on said one end wall assembly. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the holding device is configured to
hold a second end of the at least one strut. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure and a second strut configured
to extend between and engaging surfaces of the end wall assemblies
that face each other when each is in the extended position, the
second having a storage position where the second strut is at least
partially removably held against said one end wall assembly when
said one end wall assembly is moving between the storage position
and the extended position. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where the second strut is removably held in
parallel with the at least one strut on said one wall assembly. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and further
including at least one a holding device secured to said one end
wall assembly to hold at least one portion of the at least one
strut on said one end wall assembly. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the holding device is configured to
hold a second end of the at least one strut. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the at least one strut is
pivotally joined at a first end to said one end wall assembly. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and a second
strut configured to extend between and engaging surfaces of the end
wall assemblies that face each other when each is in the extended
position, the second having a storage position where the second
strut is at least partially removably held against said one end
wall assembly when said one end wall assembly is moving between the
storage position and the extended position. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the second strut is
removably held in parallel with the at least one strut on said one
wall assembly. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where each strut is adjustable in length. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and further
including a second primary platform having a major surface defining
a primary plane, an inside edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a
back edge, the inside edge of the second primary platform being
joined to a side edge opposite the primary platform, the second
primary platform having a folded position in which the primary
plane and stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal, where the
opening is defined by edges of the primary platform, the second
primary platform and/or the stationary platform. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure and further including an end
wall assembly having at least two segments, each segment having a
major surface defining a segment plane, side edges, a top edge and
a bottom edge, the side edges of the segments being joined to each
other, the bottom edges of each segment being joined to one of the
stationary platform and the primary platform, the end wall assembly
having an extended position in which the segment planes are at an
angle to both the stationary plane and the primary plane, and the
end wall assembly having a folded position. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the at least one leg is
of length that the panel functions as a table. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the at least one leg is
removably attached to the panel. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the mount is secured to one of the
segments. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the mount is secured to one of the frame, stationary platform
or primary platforms. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure and further including a second mount secured to one of
the frame, stationary platform, primary platforms or segments that
the mount is not secured to such that the panel can be selectively
secured to two different positions on the at least partial
enclosure. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the leg is adjustable in length to function as the support
for the portion in the two different positons on the at least
partial enclosure. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the at least one leg is pivotally secured to the
panel and movable from a first position where the leg is extended
to support the portion of the panel when portion is secured to the
mount and a second position configured to remain attached to the
panel when the panel covers at least a majority of the opening
formed by the stationary and primary platforms. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where one of the mount or the
portion includes an element inhibiting removal of the portion from
the mount. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the element moves to a position to inhibit removal of the
portion from the mount due to gravity. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where the element includes a pivot pin
to allow pivotal movement to the position to inhibit removal of the
portion from the mount due to gravity. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where the panel has a lower edge, an
upper edge shorter than the lower edge, a pair of side edges, each
side edge extending from a corner of the lower edge to a corner of
the upper edge at an angle substantially coinciding with an angle
of a corresponding primary platform with the stationary platform in
each folded position thereof. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where the end wall assembly includes three
segments, each segment having a major surface defining a segment
plane, side edges, a top edge and a bottom edge, the side edges of
the segments being joined to each other, the bottom edges of each
segment being joined to one of the stationary platform and the
primary platform, where the segment planes are at an angle to both
the stationary plane and the primary plane in the extended position
of the end wall assembly, and parallel to one of the primary planes
or the stationary plane in the folded position, the mount being
secured to a middle segment of the three segments. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the panel
includes an upwardly facing panel on the at least partial enclosure
when the primary platform is in the folded position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the panel
includes a rearwardly facing panel on the at least partial
enclosure when the primary platform is in the folded position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the panel
includes two or more portions when used in the folded position of
the primary platform, the portions being separately used as spaced
apart tables. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the mount is secured to a portion of the at least partial
enclosure in a movable manner such that the panel can be moved
while being secured to the mount to at least two different
positions to function as a table. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the mount allows the panel to be
tilted upwardly such that an end remote from the mount is securable
in an elevated position.
[0016] A sixth general aspect includes a transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure, including: a platform; a pair of end wall
assemblies where a first end wall assembly is joined to front edges
of platform and a second end wall assembly is joined to back edges
of the platform, each end wall assembly having an extended position
in which major surfaces of the end wall assemblies are at an angle
to both the platform, and each end wall assembly having a folded
position; at least one strut configured to extend between and
engaging surfaces of the end wall assemblies that face each other
when each is in the extended position, the at least one strut
having a storage position where the strut is at least partially
removably is held against one end wall assembly when said one end
wall assembly is moving between the storage position and the
extended position.
[0017] Implementations of the sixth general aspect may include one
or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the at least one strut is pivotally
joined at a first end to said one end wall assembly. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and a second
strut configured to extend between and engaging surfaces of the end
wall assemblies that face each other when each is in the extended
position, the second having a storage position where the second
strut is at least partially removably held against said one end
wall assembly when said one end wall assembly is moving between the
storage position and the extended position. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the second strut is
removably held in parallel with the at least one strut on said one
wall assembly. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where each strut is adjustable in length. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and further
including a second primary platform having a major surface defining
a primary plane, an inside edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a
back edge, the inside edge of the second primary platform being
joined to a side edge opposite the primary platform, the second
primary platform having a folded position in which the primary
plane and stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal, where the
opening is defined by edges of the primary platform, the second
primary platform and/or the stationary platform. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure and further including an end
wall assembly having at least two segments, each segment having a
major surface defining a segment plane, side edges, a top edge and
a bottom edge, the side edges of the segments being joined to each
other, the bottom edges of each segment being joined to one of the
stationary platform and the primary platform, the end wall assembly
having an extended position in which the segment planes are at an
angle to both the stationary plane and the primary plane, and the
end wall assembly having a folded position. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the at least one leg is
of length that the panel functions as a table. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the at least one leg is
removably attached to the panel. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the mount is secured to one of the
segments. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the mount is secured to one of the frame, stationary platform
or primary platforms. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure and further including a second mount secured to one of
the frame, stationary platform, primary platforms or segments that
the mount is not secured to such that the panel can be selectively
secured to two different positions on the at least partial
enclosure. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the leg is adjustable in length to function as the support
for the portion in the two different positons on the at least
partial enclosure. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the at least one leg is pivotally secured to the
panel and movable from a first position where the leg is extended
to support the portion of the panel when portion is secured to the
mount and a second position configured to remain attached to the
panel when the panel covers at least a majority of the opening
formed by the stationary and primary platforms. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where one of the mount or the
portion includes an element inhibiting removal of the portion from
the mount. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the element moves to a position to inhibit removal of the
portion from the mount due to gravity. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where the element includes a pivot pin
to allow pivotal movement to the position to inhibit removal of the
portion from the mount due to gravity. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where the panel has a lower edge, an
upper edge shorter than the lower edge, a pair of side edges, each
side edge extending from a corner of the lower edge to a corner of
the upper edge at an angle substantially coinciding with an angle
of a corresponding primary platform with the stationary platform in
each folded position thereof. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where the end wall assembly includes three
segments, each segment having a major surface defining a segment
plane, side edges, a top edge and a bottom edge, the side edges of
the segments being joined to each other, the bottom edges of each
segment being joined to one of the stationary platform and the
primary platform, where the segment planes are at an angle to both
the stationary plane and the primary plane in the extended position
of the end wall assembly, and parallel to one of the primary planes
or the stationary plane in the folded position, the mount being
secured to a middle segment of the three segments. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the panel
includes an upwardly facing panel on the at least partial enclosure
when the primary platform is in the folded position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the panel
includes a rearwardlly facing panel on the at least partial
enclosure when the primary platform is in the folded position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the panel
includes two or more portions when used in the folded position of
the primary platform, the portions being separately used as spaced
apart tables. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the mount is secured to a portion of the at least partial
enclosure in a movable manner such that the panel can be moved
while being secured to the mount to at least two different
positions to function as a table. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the mount allows the panel to be
tilted upwardly such that an end remote from the mount is securable
in an elevated position.
[0018] A seventh general aspect includes a transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure, including: a frame. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes a stationary
platform joined to the frame and having a major surface defining a
stationary plane, a plurality of side edges, a front edge and a
back edge. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
also includes a primary platform having a major surface defining a
primary plane, an inside edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a
back edge, the inside edge being joined to one of side edges of the
stationary platform, the primary platform having a folded position
in which the primary plane and stationary plane are oblique or
orthogonal, and the primary platform having an extended position
where the primary platform is unfolded from the stationary
platform. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
also includes a wall joined to at least one of the primary platform
or the stationary platform. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure also includes a mounting element. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes a
panel removably attached to a portion of at least the stationary
platform or the primary platform in the folded position so as to
cover at least a majority of an opening formed at least in part by
the stationary and/or the primary platform, when the primary
platform is in the folded position, the panel including a portion
removably attachable to the mounting element. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes at least one leg
of length to support a portion of the rear cover remote from the
portion.
[0019] Implementations of the seventh general aspect may include
one or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure and further including a second primary
platform having a major surface defining a primary plane, an inside
edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a back edge, the inside edge
of the second primary platform being joined to a side edge opposite
the primary platform, the second primary platform having a folded
position in which the primary plane and stationary plane are
oblique or orthogonal, where the opening is defined by edges of the
primary platform, the second primary platform and/or the stationary
platform. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and
further including an end wall assembly having at least two
segments, each segment having a major surface defining a segment
plane, side edges, a top edge and a bottom edge, the side edges of
the segments being joined to each other, the bottom edges of each
segment being joined to one of the stationary platform and the
primary platform, the end wall assembly having an extended position
in which the segment planes are at an angle to both the stationary
plane and the primary plane, and the end wall assembly having a
folded position. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the at least one leg is of length that the panel
functions as a table. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the at least one leg is removably attached to the
panel. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where
the mount is secured to one of the segments. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the mount is secured to
one of the frame, stationary platform or primary platforms. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and further
including a second mount secured to one of the frame, stationary
platform, primary platforms or segments that the mount is not
secured to such that the panel can be selectively secured to two
different positions on the at least partial enclosure. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the leg is
adjustable in length to function as the support for the portion in
the two different positons on the at least partial enclosure. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the at
least one leg is pivotally secured to the panel and movable from a
first position where the leg is extended to support the portion of
the panel when portion is secured to the mount and a second
position configured to remain attached to the panel when the panel
covers at least a majority of the opening formed by the stationary
and primary platforms. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where one of the mount or the portion includes an element
inhibiting removal of the portion from the mount. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the element moves to a
position to inhibit removal of the portion from the mount due to
gravity. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the element includes a pivot pin to allow pivotal movement to
the position to inhibit removal of the portion from the mount due
to gravity. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the panel has a lower edge, an upper edge shorter than the
lower edge, a pair of side edges, each side edge extending from a
corner of the lower edge to a corner of the upper edge at an angle
substantially coinciding with an angle of a corresponding primary
platform with the stationary platform in each folded position
thereof. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the end wall assembly includes three segments, each segment
having a major surface defining a segment plane, side edges, a top
edge and a bottom edge, the side edges of the segments being joined
to each other, the bottom edges of each segment being joined to one
of the stationary platform and the primary platform, where the
segment planes are at an angle to both the stationary plane and the
primary plane in the extended position of the end wall assembly,
and parallel to one of the primary planes or the stationary plane
in the folded position, the mount being secured to a middle segment
of the three segments. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the panel includes an upwardly facing panel on the
at least partial enclosure when the primary platform is in the
folded position. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the panel includes a rearwardly facing panel on the
at least partial enclosure when the primary platform is in the
folded position. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the panel includes two or more portions when used
in the folded position of the primary platform, the portions being
separately used as spaced apart tables. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where the mount is secured to a portion
of the at least partial enclosure in a movable manner such that the
panel can be moved while being secured to the mount to at least two
different positions to function as a table. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the mount allows the
panel to be tilted upwardly such that an end remote from the mount
is securable in an elevated position.
[0020] An eighth general aspect includes a transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure, including: a frame. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes a platform
supported by the frame. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure also includes a pair of end walls pivotally secured to
the frame or platform at opposite ends of the platform. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes at
least one collapsible support frame having at least one movable
elongated support secured to the frame to selectively move from a
first position where the elongated support is disengaged from the
walls to a second position where the elongated support is elevated
above its location in the first position so as to engage each of
the walls and hold the walls in an upright position.
[0021] Implementations of the eighth general aspect may include one
or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the at least one collapsible support
frame engages portions of the walls each proximate side edges
thereof. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and
further including a second collapsible support frame having at
least one movable elongated support secured to the frame to
selectively move from a first position where the elongated support
is disengaged from the walls to a second position where the
elongated support is elevated above its location in the first
position so as to engage each of the walls and hold the walls in an
upright position. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where at least one of the collapsible support frames
includes a plurality of supports secured to each other to form an
upper support frame that is elevated above the platform when the
elongated support is in the second position. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the collapsible support
frame includes secondary vertical supports pivotally joined to the
upper support frame at locations spaced apart from each other. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and further
including a rigid panel supported by the upper frame in an elevated
position above the platform when the collapsible support frame is
in the second position. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure and further including a flexible elongated member of size
configured to form a sleeping surface that is supported by the
upper frame in an elevated position above the platform when the
collapsible support frame is in the second position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and further
including a table removably attached to a portion of the support
frame in the second position. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where the table is slidably attached to the
portion of the support frame. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where the table includes a removable panel when
the end walls are in a collapsed position and the support frame is
in the first position. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the table is pivotally mounted to the support
frame. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where
a mount for the table allows the table to be tilted upwardly such
that an end remote from the mount is securable in an elevated
position. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where each collapsible support frame is pivotally joined to the
primary platform. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure is pivotally joined to the primary platform proximate the
outside edge. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where at least one of the collapsible support frame includes a
plurality of supports secured to each other to form an upper frame
that is elevated above the major surface when the elongated support
is in the second position and where ends of the support frame
engages each of the end wall assemblies. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where the collapsible support frame
includes secondary vertical supports pivotally joined to the upper
frame at locations spaced apart from each other. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure and further including a rigid
panel supported by the upper frame in an elevated position above
the major surface when the collapsible support frame is in the
second position. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure and further including a flexible elongated member of size
configured to form a sleeping surface that is supported by the
upper frame in an elevated position above the major surface when
the collapsible support frame is in the second position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the upper
frame and the side support are disposed between the primary
platform and a portion of an associated end wall assembly when the
end wall assembly is in the folded position. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the table is pivotally
mounted to the elongated support. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where a mount for the table allows the
table to be tilted upwardly such that an end remote from the mount
is securable in an elevated position. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the elongated support and the
secondary vertical supports are of height such that the upper frame
forms a bench. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the elongated support and the secondary vertical
supports are of height such that the upper frame forms a table or
sleeping support.
[0022] A ninth general aspect includes a transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure, including: a stationary platform having a
major surface defining a stationary plane, a plurality of side
edges, a front edge and a back edge; a pair of primary platforms,
each primary platform having a major surface defining a primary
plane, an inside edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a back edge,
the inside edge being joined to the stationary platform, each
primary platform having a folded position in which each primary
plane and stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal, and each
primary platform having an extended position where the primary
platform is unfolded from the stationary platform; a pair of end
wall assemblies where a first end wall assembly is joined to front
edges of the primary and stationary platforms and a second end wall
assembly is joined to back edges of the primary and stationary
platforms, each end wall assembly having three segments, each
segment having a major surface defining a segment plane, side
edges, a top edge and a bottom edge, the side edges of each pair of
adjacent segments being joined to each other, the bottom edges of
each segment being joined to one of front or back edges of the
stationary platform and the primary platforms, each end wall
assembly having an extended position in which the segment planes
are at an angle to both the stationary plane and the primary plane,
and each end wall assembly having a folded position; a pair of
collapsible support frames, each support frame having at least one
movable elongated support secured to one of the primary platforms
to selectively move from a first position where the elongated
support is parallel with and proximate a major surface of one of
the primary platforms and a second position where the elongated
support is elevated above the side edge opposite the stationary
platform where ends of the support frame engage each of the end
wall assemblies when the end wall assemblies are in the extended
positions.
[0023] Implementations of the ninth general aspect may include one
or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where each collapsible support frame is
pivotally joined to the primary platform. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure is pivotally joined to the
primary platform proximate the outside edge. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where at least one of the
collapsible support frame includes a plurality of supports secured
to each other to form an upper frame that is elevated above the
major surface when the elongated support is in the second position
and where ends of the support frame engages each of the end wall
assemblies. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the collapsible support frame includes secondary vertical
supports pivotally joined to the upper frame at locations spaced
apart from each other. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure and further including a rigid panel supported by the
upper frame in an elevated position above the major surface when
the collapsible support frame is in the second position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and further
including a flexible elongated member of size configured to form a
sleeping surface that is supported by the upper frame in an
elevated position above the major surface when the collapsible
support frame is in the second position. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where the upper frame and the side
support are disposed between the primary platform and a portion of
an associated end wall assembly when the end wall assembly is in
the folded position. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the table is pivotally mounted to the elongated
support. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where a mount for the table allows the table to be tilted upwardly
such that an end remote from the mount is securable in an elevated
position. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the elongated support and the secondary vertical supports are
of height such that the upper frame forms a bench. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the
elongated support and the secondary vertical supports are of height
such that the upper frame forms a table or sleeping support.
[0024] A tenth general aspect includes a transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure, including: a stationary platform having a
major surface defining a stationary plane, a plurality of side
edges, a front edge and a back edge; a primary platform having a
major surface defining a primary plane, an inside edge, an outside
edge, a front edge, a back edge, the inside edge being joined to
the stationary platform, the primary platform having a folded
position in which the primary plane and stationary plane are
oblique or orthogonal, and the primary platform having an extended
position where the primary platform is unfolded from the stationary
platform; an end wall assembly having two segments, each segment
having a major surface defining a segment plane, side edges, a top
edge and a bottom edge, the side edges of the segments being joined
to each other, the bottom edges of each segment being joined to one
of the stationary platform and the primary platform, the end wall
assembly having an extended position in which the segment planes
are at an angle to both the stationary plane and the primary plane,
and the end wall assembly having a folded position; a collapsible
support frame having at least one movable elongated support secured
to the primary platform to selectively move from a first position
where the elongated support is parallel with a major surface of the
primary platform and a second position where the elongated support
is at an angle to the major surface, the support frame having at
least one support member joined to the elongated support that is
elevated above the major surface when the elongated support is in
the second position.
[0025] Implementations of the tenth general aspect may include one
or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the elongated support is pivotally
joined to the primary platform. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where the elongated support is pivotally joined
to the primary platform proximate the outside edge. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the at
least one support includes a plurality of supports secured to each
other to form an upper frame that is elevated above the major
surface when the elongated support is in the second position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the at
least one elongated support includes at least two elongated
supports spaced apart from each other and secured to ends of a side
support, the side support pivotally joined to the primary platform,
the upper frame being pivotally joined to ends of the elongated
supports. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the collapsible support frame includes secondary vertical
supports pivotally joined to the upper frame at locations spaced
apart from the elongated supports. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure and further including a rigid panel
supported by the upper frame in an elevated position above the
major surface when the elongated support is in the second position.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and further
including a flexible elongated member of size configured to form a
sleeping surface that is supported by the upper frame in an
elevated position above the major surface when the elongated
support is in the second position. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the upper frame and the side support
are disposed between the primary platform and the end wall assembly
when the end wall assembly is in the folded position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the
elongated support and the secondary vertical supports are of height
such that the upper frame forms a table or sleeping surface. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the upper
frame is selectively configurable in a first operable width and a
second operable width, the second operable width being wider than
the first operable width. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where the second operable width is of a width
such that the upper frame is over at least partially both the
primary platform and the stationary platform. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the upper frame includes
selectively extendable lateral supports. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure and a second portion selectively
connectable to the upper frame to obtain the second operable width.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and further
including a panel selectively configurable to a first width and a
second width of size for the upper frame when configured in the
first operable width and the second operable width, respectively.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the
structure is a partial storage enclosure mounted to the frame
adjacent the stationary platform. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the structure is a partial storage
enclosure mounted to the frame adjacent the primary platform. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the partial
storage enclosure includes opposed side edges, where each side edge
is aligned with one of the front edges of the primary platforms in
the folded position. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure and a support frame located in the partial storage
enclosure the support frame supporting one or more components that
are operated when the end wall assembly is in the extended
position. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the support frame is configured to support one component of a
set of different components, each component of the set of
components configured to be supported by the support frame in a
same position. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the support frame includes a first mount and each
of the components of the set of different components includes a
second mount complimentary with the first mount. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where one component of the
different set of components is a heater. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where one component of the different set
of components is a sink. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where one component of the different set of
components is a cooktop. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where one component of the different set of
components is a storage drawer. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where one component of the different set of
components is electrical outlets. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where one component of the different set of
components is a valve controlling water flow. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where one component includes a
toilet movable from within the partial storage enclosure through
the opening to be used and returned to the partial storage
enclosure through the opening for storage. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the partial storage
enclosure includes at least one door through which the toilet can
be removed when the end wall assembly is in the folded position
[0026] An eleventh general aspect includes a transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure, including: a frame. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes a stationary
platform supported by the frame and having a major surface defining
a stationary plane, a plurality of side edges, a front edge and a
back edge. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
also includes a primary platform having a major surface defining a
primary plane, an inside edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a
back edge, the inside edge joined to the stationary platform, each
primary platform having a folded position in which the associated
primary plane and stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal, and
the primary platform having an extended position where the primary
platform is unfolded from the stationary platform. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes an
end wall assembly having two segments, each segment having a major
surface defining a segment plane, side edges, a top edge and a
bottom edge, the side edges of the segments being joined to each
other, the bottom edges of each segment being joined to one of the
stationary platform and the primary platform, the end wall assembly
having an extended position in which the segment planes are at an
angle to both the stationary plane and the primary plane, and the
end wall assembly having a folded position, where the segment
joined to the either the stationary platform of the primary
platform includes an opening. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure also includes a structure mounted to the frame
and adjacent the primary and/or stationary platform when the wall
assembly is unfolded, the structure having a surface and/or opening
accessible through the opening in the segment when the wall
assembly is unfolded.
[0027] Implementations of the eleventh general aspect may include
one or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where the structure is a partial storage
enclosure mounted to the frame adjacent the stationary platform.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the
structure is a partial storage enclosure mounted to the frame
adjacent the primary platform. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where the partial storage enclosure includes
opposed side edges, where each side edge is aligned with one of the
front edges of the primary platforms in the folded position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and a support
frame located in the partial storage enclosure the support frame
supporting one or more components that are operated when the end
wall assembly is in the extended position. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the support frame is
configured to support one component of a set of different
components, each component of the set of components configured to
be supported by the support frame in a same position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the support
frame includes a first mount and each of the components of the set
of different components includes a second mount complimentary with
the first mount. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where one component of the different set of components is
a heater. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where one component of the different set of components is a sink.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where one
component of the different set of components is a cooktop. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where one
component of the different set of components is a storage drawer.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where one
component of the different set of components is electrical outlets.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where one
component of the different set of components is a valve controlling
water flow. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where one component includes a toilet movable from within the
partial storage enclosure through the opening to be used and
returned to the partial storage enclosure through the opening for
storage. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the partial storage enclosure includes at least one door
through which the toilet can be removed when the end wall assembly
is in the folded position.
[0028] A twelfth general aspect includes a transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure, including: a frame. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes a stationary
platform joined to the frame and having a major surface defining a
stationary plane, a plurality of side edges, a front edge and a
back edge. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
also includes two primary platforms, each primary platform having a
major surface defining a primary plane, an inside edge, an outside
edge, a front edge, a back edge, the inside edge each primary
platform being joined to the stationary platform, each primary
platform having a folded position in which the associated primary
plane and stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal, and each
primary platform having an extended position where the primary
platform is unfolded from the stationary platform. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes an
end wall assembly having three segments, each segment having a
major surface defining a segment plane, side edges, a top edge and
a bottom edge, the side edges of the segments being joined to each
other, the bottom edges of each segment being joined to one of the
stationary platform and the primary platforms, the end wall
assembly having an extended position in which the segment planes
are at an angle to both the stationary plane and the primary plane,
and the end wall assembly having a folded position, where the
segment joined to the either the stationary platform of the primary
platform includes an opening. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure also includes a partial storage enclosure mounted
to frame having walls forming an aperture aligned with the opening
in the segment.
[0029] Implementations of the twelfth general aspect may include
one or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where the partial storage enclosure
includes opposed side edges, where each side edge is aligned with
one of the front edges of the primary platforms in the folded
position. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and
a support frame located in the partial storage enclosure the
support frame supporting one or more components that are operated
when the end wall assembly is in the extended position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the support
frame is configured to support one component of a set of different
components, each component of the set of components configured to
be supported by the support frame in a same position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the support
frame includes a first mount and each of the components of the set
of different components includes a second mount complimentary with
the first mount. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where one component of the different set of components is
a heater. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where one component of the different set of components is a sink.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where one
component of the different set of components is a cooktop. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where one
component of the different set of components is a storage drawer.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where one
component of the different set of components is electrical outlets.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where one
component of the different set of components is a valve controlling
water flow. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where one component includes a toilet movable from within the
partial storage enclosure through the opening to be used and
returned to the partial storage enclosure through the opening for
storage. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the partial storage enclosure includes at least one door
through which the toilet can be removed when the end wall assembly
is in the folded position.
[0030] A thirteenth general aspect includes a transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure, including: a frame. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes a
platform joined to the frame. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure also includes an end wall having joined to the
platform to move to and from a storage position and an extended
position, the end wall including an opening. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes a partial storage
enclosure mounted to the frame proximate the platform, the partial
storage enclosure having walls forming an aperture aligned with the
opening in the end wall when the end wall is in the extended
position, the partial storage enclosure including at least one door
allowing access into the partial storage enclosure apart from the
aperture. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
also includes a component movable from within the partial storage
enclosure through the opening to be used and returned to the
partial storage enclosure through the opening for storage, where
the at least one door of size to allow removal of the component
through the door when the end wall is in the folded position.
[0031] Implementations of the thirteenth general aspect may include
one or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where the component includes a toilet.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the
component is supported by a guide device for guided movement
through the aperture. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the guide device includes spaced apart guide rails.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the
guide device includes a movable tray. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure and further including holding devices to
removably couple the component from the guide device and remove the
component from the partial storage enclosure through the door. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and further
including an end wall assembly having two segments, each segment
having a major surface defining a segment plane, side edges, a top
edge and a bottom edge, the side edges of the segments being joined
to each other, the bottom edges of each segment being joined to one
of the stationary platform and the primary platform, the end wall
assembly having an extended position in which the segment planes
are at an angle to both the stationary plane and the primary plane,
and the end wall assembly having a folded position. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and a set of four
leveling legs removably secured to the frame, each leveling leg
adjustable in length to level a portion of the at least partial
enclosure when the primary platforms are in the extended position.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the
side support structure is configured to be removably mounted to
portions of the at least partial enclosure frame that are used to
mount the leveling legs on one side of the at least partial
transportable enclosure. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where the side support structure includes support
members configured to support a bicycle. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where the side support structure
includes support members configured to support a paddle board. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the side
support structure includes support members configured to support a
plurality of containers. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where the frame includes a plurality of receivers
on each side of the enclosure, each configured receiver configured
to receive a lateral support adjustably extendable out of the
receiver to provide support for the side support structure. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the support
structure includes members extending over a top of the at least
partial enclosure when the primary platforms are in the folded
position. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the members include longitudinally extending members being
parallel to inside edge, and members extending transverse to the
inside edge. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
and further including lifting cables connected at a first end to
each lateral support and at a second end to a lift ring. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the frame
includes an elongated support with a hitch; where a cable is
connected at a first end to the elongated support or the hitch and
at a second end to the lift ring. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the frame includes an elongated
support with a hitch; where a cable is connected at a first end to
the elongated support or the hitch and at a second end to the lift
ring. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where
the end of the at least one ground support includes a ski. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the frame
includes a plurality of receivers, each configured receiver
configured to receive a lateral support adjustably extendable out
of the receiver to provide support for the at least one primary
platform, each lateral support connected to a ground support
includes a ski or a wheel. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure and further including a second primary platform
having a major surface defining a primary plane, a second inside
edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a back edge, the second inside
edge being joined to the stationary platform on a side opposite the
at least one the primary platform, the second platform having a
folded position in which the associated primary plane and
stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal, and an extended
position where the second primary platform is unfolded from the
stationary platform, where the frame includes a plurality of
receivers on each side of the frame, each receiver configured to
receive a lateral support adjustably extendable out of the receiver
to provide support for the at least one primary platform or the
second primary platform, each lateral support connected to a ground
support includes a ski or a wheel. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where a single ski is provided on each side
of the frame. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the end of the at least one ground support includes a
wheel
[0032] A fourteenth general aspect includes a transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure, including: a frame; a
stationary platform supported by the frame and having a major
surface defining a stationary plane, a plurality of side edges, a
front edge and a back edge; two primary platforms, each primary
platform having a major surface defining a primary plane, an inside
edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a back edge, the inside edge
each primary platform being joined to the stationary platform, each
primary platform having a folded position in which the associated
primary plane and stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal, and
each primary platform having an extended position where the primary
platform is unfolded from the stationary platform; and a side
support structure removably secured to the frame when the primary
platforms are in the folded position, the side support structure
configured to support an article in an elevated position when the
primary platforms are folded.
[0033] Implementations of the fourteenth general aspect may include
one or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure and further including an end wall
assembly having two segments, each segment having a major surface
defining a segment plane, side edges, a top edge and a bottom edge,
the side edges of the segments being joined to each other, the
bottom edges of each segment being joined to one of the stationary
platform and the primary platform, the end wall assembly having an
extended position in which the segment planes are at an angle to
both the stationary plane and the primary plane, and the end wall
assembly having a folded position. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure and a set of four leveling legs removably
secured to the frame, each leveling leg adjustable in length to
level a portion of the at least partial enclosure when the primary
platforms are in the extended position. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where the side support structure is
configured to be removably mounted to portions of the at least
partial enclosure frame that are used to mount the leveling legs on
one side of the at least partial transportable enclosure. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the side
support structure includes support members configured to support a
bicycle. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the side support structure includes support members
configured to support a paddle board. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the side support structure includes
support members configured to support a plurality of containers.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the
frame includes a plurality of receivers on each side of the
enclosure, each configured receiver configured to receive a lateral
support adjustably extendable out of the receiver to provide
support for the side support structure. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where the support structure includes
members extending over a top of the at least partial enclosure when
the primary platforms are in the folded position. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the members include
longitudinally extending members being parallel to inside edge, and
members extending transverse to the inside edge. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure and further including lifting
cables connected at a first end to each lateral support and at a
second end to a lift ring. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where the frame includes an elongated support
with a hitch; where a cable is connected at a first end to the
elongated support or the hitch and at a second end to the lift
ring. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where
the frame includes an elongated support with a hitch; where a cable
is connected at a first end to the elongated support or the hitch
and at a second end to the lift ring. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the end of the at least one ground
support includes a ski. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the frame includes a plurality of receivers, each
configured receiver configured to receive a lateral support
adjustably extendable out of the receiver to provide support for
the at least one primary platform, each lateral support connected
to a ground support includes a ski or a wheel. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure and further including a second
primary platform having a major surface defining a primary plane, a
second inside edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a back edge, the
second inside edge being joined to the stationary platform on a
side opposite the at least one the primary platform, the second
platform having a folded position in which the associated primary
plane and stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal, and an
extended position where the second primary platform is unfolded
from the stationary platform, where the frame includes a plurality
of receivers on each side of the frame, each receiver configured to
receive a lateral support adjustably extendable out of the receiver
to provide support for the at least one primary platform or the
second primary platform, each lateral support connected to a ground
support includes a ski or a wheel. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where a single ski is provided on each side
of the frame. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the end of the at least one ground support includes a
wheel.
[0034] A fifteenth general aspect includes a transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure, including: a frame; a stationary
platform supported by the frame and having a major surface defining
a stationary plane, a plurality of side edges, a front edge and a
back edge; two primary platforms, each primary platform having a
major surface defining a primary plane, an inside edge, an outside
edge, a front edge, a back edge, the inside edge each primary
platform being joined to the stationary platform, each primary
platform having a folded position in which the associated primary
plane and stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal, and each
primary platform having an extended position where the primary
platform is unfolded from the stationary platform; where the frame
includes a plurality of receivers on each side of the enclosure,
each configured receiver configured to receive a lateral support
adjustably extendable out of the receiver to provide support for
the side support structure. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure also includes lifting cables connected at a first
end to each lateral support and at a second end to a lift ring.
[0035] Implementations of the fifteenth general aspect may include
one or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where the frame includes an elongated
support with a hitch; where a cable is connected at a first end to
the elongated support or the hitch and at a second end to the lift
ring. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where
the end of the at least one ground support includes a ski. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the frame
includes a plurality of receivers, each configured receiver
configured to receive a lateral support adjustably extendable out
of the receiver to provide support for the at least one primary
platform, each lateral support connected to a ground support
includes a ski or a wheel. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure and further including a second primary platform
having a major surface defining a primary plane, a second inside
edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a back edge, the second inside
edge being joined to the stationary platform on a side opposite the
at least one the primary platform, the second platform having a
folded position in which the associated primary plane and
stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal, and an extended
position where the second primary platform is unfolded from the
stationary platform, where the frame includes a plurality of
receivers on each side of the frame, each receiver configured to
receive a lateral support adjustably extendable out of the receiver
to provide support for the at least one primary platform or the
second primary platform, each lateral support connected to a ground
support includes a ski or a wheel. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where a single ski is provided on each side
of the frame. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the end of the at least one ground support includes a
wheel.
[0036] A sixteenth general aspect includes a transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure, including: a frame; a stationary
platform supported by the frame and having a major surface defining
a stationary plane, a plurality of side edges, a front edge and a
back edge; at least one primary platform having a major surface
defining a primary plane, an inside edge, an outside edge, a front
edge, a back edge, the inside edge being joined to the stationary
platform such that the primary platform has a folded position in
which the associated primary plane and stationary plane are oblique
or orthogonal, and an extended position where the primary platform
is unfolded from the stationary platform; at least one ground
support having a ground engaging end configured to allow movement
of the at least partial enclosure with the primary platform
unfolded.
[0037] Implementations of the sixteenth general aspect may include
one or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where the end of the at least one ground
support includes a ski. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure where the frame includes a plurality of receivers, each
configured receiver configured to receive a lateral support
adjustably extendable out of the receiver to provide support for
the at least one primary platform, each lateral support connected
to a ground support includes a ski or a wheel. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure and further including a second
primary platform having a major surface defining a primary plane, a
second inside edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a back edge, the
second inside edge being joined to the stationary platform on a
side opposite the at least one the primary platform, the second
platform having a folded position in which the associated primary
plane and stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal, and an
extended position where the second primary platform is unfolded
from the stationary platform, where the frame includes a plurality
of receivers on each side of the frame, each receiver configured to
receive a lateral support adjustably extendable out of the receiver
to provide support for the at least one primary platform or the
second primary platform, each lateral support connected to a ground
support includes a ski or a wheel. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where a single ski is provided on each side
of the frame. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the end of the at least one ground support includes a
wheel.
[0038] A seventeenth general aspect includes a transportable
fold-out enclosure, including: a frame. The transportable fold-out
enclosure also includes a floor secured to the frame; and two wall
assemblies where the wall assemblies are disposed opposite each
other and pivotally joined to the floor with a hinge, each wall
assembly being movable from a first position where the wall
assembly is lying on the floor to a second position where the wall
assembly is away from the floor. The transportable fold-out
enclosure also includes a canopy joined to and extending between
the wall assemblies to form the enclosure, the canopy including at
least one fabric material, the fabric material connected to and
extending between the wall assemblies, where the fabric material
includes a first portion that is selectively disconnnectable from a
second portion that secured to at least one of the wall
assemblies.
[0039] Implementations of the seventeenth general aspect may
include one or more of the following features. The transportable
fold-out enclosure and further including a fastener to selectively
connect the first portion to the second portion. The transportable
fold-out enclosure where one of the first portion and the second
portion includes a third portion to cover the fastener when
fastener connects the first portion to the second portion. The
transportable fold-out enclosure where the fastener includes at
least one of a zipper, snaps, clips, ties, or a hook and loop
fastener. The transportable fold-out enclosure and further
including a second fabric material connected to and extending
between the wall assemblies. The transportable fold-out enclosure
where the second fabric material is exterior to the fabric
material. The transportable fold-out enclosure where the floor
includes foldable platforms where the fabric material is connected
to the foldable platforms. The transportable fold-out enclosure
where the fabric material connected to the foldable platforms
includes second fabric material a third portion that is selectively
disconnnectable from a fourth portion that secured to at least one
of platforms. The transportable fold-out enclosure and further
including a fastener to selectively connect the third portion to
the fourth portion. The transportable fold-out enclosure where the
fastener includes at least one of a zipper, snaps, clips, ties, or
a hook and loop fastener. The transportable fold-out enclosure
where one of the third portion and the fourth portion includes a
fifth portion to cover the fastener when fastener connects the
third portion to the fourth portion. The transportable fold-out
enclosure where the one or more separators extend along a length of
the canopy forming a roof for the transportable enclosure. The
transportable fold-out enclosure where the one or more separators
are space apart from each other along the length of the canopy
forming the roof of the transportable enclosure. The transportable
fold-out enclosure where the one or more separators includes at
least one of an elongated structure of foam, loose material and/or
an inflatable bladder. The transportable fold-out enclosure where
the one or more separators is permanently fixed to at least one of
the fabrics. The transportable fold-out enclosure where the one or
more separators are removably connectable to at least one of the
fabrics. The transportable fold-out enclosure where the one or more
separators is joined to the at least one fabrics with at least one
of a zipper, snaps, clips, ties, or a hook and loop fastener. The
transportable fold-out enclosure where the separator includes a
support sleeve and an inner filler. The transportable fold-out
enclosure where the second canopy is joined to an edge of one of
the wall assemblies to be lifted to an upright position with
movement of the wall assembly. The transportable fold-out enclosure
where the second canopy is joined to the first canopy. The
transportable fold-out enclosure where the second canopy includes a
first portion that is selectively connectable to a second portion
that secured to at least one of the wall assemblies or to the first
canopy. The transportable fold-out enclosure and further including
a fastener to selectively connect the first portion to the second
portion. The transportable fold-out enclosure where the fastener
includes at least one of a zipper, snaps, clips, ties, or a hook
and loop fastener. The transportable fold-out enclosure where the
support frame contacts the ground to support the second canopy. The
transportable fold-out enclosure where the support frame does not
contact the ground to support the second canopy. The transportable
fold-out enclosure where lower portions of the support frame are
connected to the end wall assembly. The transportable fold-out
enclosure where the support frame includes a plurality of hoops.
The transportable fold-out enclosure where the support frame
includes spaced apart hoops. The transportable fold-out enclosure
where members forming the support frame are inserted in sleeves of
the second canopy. The transportable fold-out enclosure and further
including fabric walls extending from the second canopy. The
transportable fold-out enclosure where one or more of the members
is adjustable in length to tension the second canopy after the
support frame is holding the second canopy. The transportable
fold-out enclosure and further including one or more panels
connected to the frame, floor or the first canopy to extend down to
ground around at least some of the sides of the floor to inhibit
air flow at least in part under the floor.
[0040] An eighteenth general aspect includes a transportable
fold-out enclosure, including: frame; a floor secured to the frame;
two wall assemblies where the wall assemblies are disposed opposite
each other and pivotally joined to the floor with a hinge, each
wall assembly being movable from a first position where the wall
assembly is lying on the floor to a second position where the wall
assembly is away from the floor; a canopy joined to and extending
between the wall assemblies to form an enclosure, the canopy
including an outer fabric material and an inner fabric material
spaced apart from the outer fabric material, each of the outer
fabric materials connected to and extending between the wall
assemblies; one or more separators disposed between the inner
fabric material and the outer fabric material.
[0041] Implementations of the eighteenth general aspect may include
one or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out
enclosure where the one or more separators extend along a length of
the canopy forming a roof for the transportable enclosure. The
transportable fold-out enclosure where the one or more separators
are space apart from each other along the length of the canopy
forming the roof of the transportable enclosure. The transportable
fold-out enclosure where the one or more separators includes at
least one of an elongated structure of foam, loose material and/or
an inflatable bladder. The transportable fold-out enclosure where
the one or more separators is permanently fixed to at least one of
the fabrics. The transportable fold-out enclosure where the one or
more separators are removably connectable to at least one of the
fabrics. The transportable fold-out enclosure where the one or more
separators is joined to the at least one fabrics with at least one
of a zipper, snaps, clips, ties, or a hook and loop fastener. The
transportable fold-out enclosure where the separator includes a
support sleeve and an inner filler. The transportable fold-out
enclosure where the second canopy is joined to an edge of one of
the wall assemblies to be lifted to an upright position with
movement of the wall assembly. The transportable fold-out enclosure
where the second canopy is joined to the first canopy. The
transportable fold-out enclosure where the second canopy includes a
first portion that is selectively connectable to a second portion
that secured to at least one of the wall assemblies or to the first
canopy. The transportable fold-out enclosure and further including
a fastener to selectively connect the first portion to the second
portion. The transportable fold-out enclosure where the fastener
includes at least one of a zipper, snaps, clips, ties, or a hook
and loop fastener. The transportable fold-out enclosure where the
support frame contacts the ground to support the second canopy. The
transportable fold-out enclosure where the support frame does not
contact the ground to support the second canopy. The transportable
fold-out enclosure where lower portions of the support frame are
connected to the end wall assembly. The transportable fold-out
enclosure where the support frame includes a plurality of hoops.
The transportable fold-out enclosure where the support frame
includes spaced apart hoops. The transportable fold-out enclosure
where members forming the support frame are inserted in sleeves of
the second canopy. The transportable fold-out enclosure and further
including fabric walls extending from the second canopy. The
transportable fold-out enclosure where one or more of the members
is adjustable in length to tension the second canopy after the
support frame is holding the second canopy. The transportable
fold-out enclosure and further including one or more panels
connected to the frame, floor or the first canopy to extend down to
ground around at least some of the sides of the floor to inhibit
air flow at least in part under the floor.
[0042] A nineteenth general aspect includes a transportable
fold-out enclosure, including: aframe; a floor secured to the
frame; two wall assemblies where the wall assemblies are disposed
opposite each other and pivotally joined to the floor with a hinge,
each wall assembly being movable from a first position where the
wall assembly is lying on the floor to a second position where the
wall assembly is away from the floor; a first canopy joined to
extending between the wall assemblies to form the enclosure, the
first canopy including at least an outer fabric material; a second
canopy joined to one of the wall assemblies or to the first canopy
to extend therefrom; and a support frame to support the second
canopy remote from the wall assembly or the first canopy to form a
at least a roof structure.
[0043] Implementations of the nineteenth general aspect may include
one or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out
enclosure where the second canopy is joined to an edge of one of
the wall assemblies to be lifted to an upright position with
movement of the wall assembly. The transportable fold-out enclosure
where the second canopy is joined to the first canopy. The
transportable fold-out enclosure where the second canopy includes a
first portion that is selectively connectable to a second portion
that secured to at least one of the wall assemblies or to the first
canopy. The transportable fold-out enclosure and further including
a fastener to selectively connect the first portion to the second
portion. The transportable fold-out enclosure where the fastener
includes at least one of a zipper, snaps, clips, ties, or a hook
and loop fastener. The transportable fold-out enclosure where the
support frame contacts the ground to support the second canopy. The
transportable fold-out enclosure where the support frame does not
contact the ground to support the second canopy. The transportable
fold-out enclosure where lower portions of the support frame are
connected to the end wall assembly. The transportable fold-out
enclosure where the support frame includes a plurality of hoops.
The transportable fold-out enclosure where the support frame
includes spaced apart hoops. The transportable fold-out enclosure
where members forming the support frame are inserted in sleeves of
the second canopy. The transportable fold-out enclosure and further
including fabric walls extending from the second canopy. The
transportable fold-out enclosure where one or more of the members
is adjustable in length to tension the second canopy after the
support frame is holding the second canopy. The transportable
fold-out enclosure and further including one or more panels
connected to the frame, floor or the first canopy to extend down to
ground around at least some of the sides of the floor to inhibit
air flow at least in part under the floor.
[0044] A twentieth general aspect includes a transportable fold-out
enclosure, including: a frame; a floor secured to the frame; two
wall assemblies where the wall assemblies are disposed opposite
each other and pivotally joined to the floor with a hinge, each
wall assembly being movable from a first position where the wall
assembly is lying on the floor to a second position where the wall
assembly is away from the floor; a canopy joined to and extending
between the wall assemblies to form an enclosure, the canopy
including an outer fabric material the outer fabric materials
connected to and extending between the wall assemblies; and one or
more fabric panels extending from the floor to ground.
[0045] Implementations of the twentieth general aspect may include
one or more of the following features. The transportable fold-out
enclosure where the one or more fabric panels is selectively
connectable to the floor. The transportable fold-out enclosure and
further including a fastener to selectively connect the one or more
fabric panels to the floor. The transportable fold-out enclosure
where the one or more fabric panels includes a first portion that
is selectively connectable to a second portion that secured to the
canopy. The transportable fold-out enclosure where the one or more
fabric panels are folded with the canopy when the wall assemblies
are in the first position. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where each of the pair of side walls are
pivotally joined to the floor. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where each of the pair of side walls are
pivotally joined to the end walls. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure and a second portion movably joined to each
side wall. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the second portion slides relative to each corresponding side
wall. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where
the second portion pivots relative to each corresponding side
wall.
[0046] A twenty-first general aspect includes a transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure, including: a frame; a floor
secured to the frame; two wall assemblies where the wall assemblies
are disposed opposite each other and pivotally joined to the floor
with a hinge, each wall assembly being movable from a first
position where the wall assembly is lying on the floor to a second
position where the wall assembly is away from the floor; a pair of
pivoting opposed side walls extending between the wall assemblies;
and a canopy joined to and extending between the wall assemblies to
form an enclosure, the canopy including at least an outer fabric
material connected to and extending between the wall assemblies and
the floor, the canopy enclosing the pair of side walls within the
enclosure.
[0047] Implementations of the twenty-first general aspect may
include one or more of the following features. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where each of the pair of side
walls are pivotally joined to the floor. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where each of the pair of side walls are
pivotally joined to the end walls. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure and a second portion movably joined to each
side wall. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the second portion slides relative to each corresponding side
wall. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where
the second portion pivots relative to each corresponding side
wall.
[0048] A twenty-second general aspect includes a transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure, including: a frame; a floor
secured to the frame; two wall assemblies where the wall assemblies
are disposed opposite each other and pivotally joined to the floor
with a hinge, each wall assembly being movable from a first
position where the wall assembly is lying on the floor to a second
position where the wall assembly is away from the floor; a pair of
pivoting opposed side walls extending between the wall assemblies,
where each opposed side wall engages a notch in each of the wall
assemblies.
[0049] A twenty-third general aspect includes a transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure, including: a frame; a floor
secured to the frame; two wall assemblies where the wall assemblies
are disposed opposite each other and pivotally joined to the floor
with a hinge, each wall assembly being movable from a first
position where the wall assembly is lying on the floor to a second
position where the wall assembly is away from the floor; a pair of
pivoting opposed side walls extending between the wall assemblies,
each side wall being hinged to one of the wall assemblies.
[0050] A twenty-fourth general aspect includes a transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure, including: a frame; a
stationary platform supported by the frame and having a major
surface defining a stationary plane, a plurality of side edges, a
front edge and a back edge; two primary platforms, each primary
platform having a major surface defining a primary plane, an inside
edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a back edge, the inside edge
each primary platform being joined to the stationary platform, each
primary platform having a folded position in which the associated
primary plane and stationary plane are oblique or orthogonal, and
each primary platform having an extended position where the primary
platform is unfolded from the stationary platform; and a pair of
pivoting opposed side walls extending between the wall assemblies,
each side wall being hinged to one of the primary platforms where
the side walls are hinged so as to lie to the exterior of the
primary platforms when the primary platforms are in the folded
position.
[0051] Implementations of the twenty-fourth general aspect may
include one or more of the following features. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure and a second portion movably
joined to each side wall. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where the second portion slides relative to each
corresponding side wall. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where the second portion pivots relative to each
corresponding side wall. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where a canopy extends between the endwalls. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the canopy
is connected to the primary platforms. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where the canopy is connected to a top
portion of each side wall. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where each the sidewalls are joined to the
endwalls where the canopy is located on an inside of the enclosure.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the
lower protection assembly includes a panel secured to at least some
of the plurality of spaced apart support members. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where at least some of the
plurality of spaced apart support members extend longitudinally
below a lower panel of the lower body portion. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where at least some of the
plurality of spaced apart support members extends along each side
of the lower body portion. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where at least some of the plurality of spaced
apart support members extends along a first side of the lower body
portion, under a lower body panel of the lower body portion and
upwardly along a second side of the lower body portion. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the lower
protection assembly includes a plurality of spaced apart support
members. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where the cover member is movably joined to the one primary
platform using a hinge. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure and further including spaced apart fasteners on a side of
the cover member opposite and edge joined to the one primary
platform.
[0052] A twenty-fifth general aspect includes a transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure, including: a frame having
wheels; a stationary platform supported by the frame and having a
major surface defining a stationary plane, a plurality of side
edges, a front edge and a back edge; a lower body portion forming
storage below the stationary platform; and a lower protection
assembly configured to protect the lower body from damage.
[0053] Implementations of the twenty-fifth general aspect may
include one or more of the following features. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the lower protection
assembly includes a panel secured to at least some of the plurality
of spaced apart support members. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where at least some of the plurality of
spaced apart support members extend longitudinally below a lower
panel of the lower body portion. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where at least some of the plurality of
spaced apart support members extends along each side of the lower
body portion. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
where at least some of the plurality of spaced apart support
members extends along a first side of the lower body portion, under
a lower body panel of the lower body portion and upwardly along a
second side o the lower body portion. The transportable fold-out at
least partial enclosure where the lower protection assembly
includes a plurality of spaced apart support members. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the cover
member is movably joined to the one primary platform using a hinge.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and further
including spaced apart fasteners on a side of the cover member
opposite and edge joined to the one primary platform.
[0054] A twenty-sixth general aspect includes a transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure, including: a at least partial
enclosure frame having a hitch. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure also includes a stationary platform joined to the
at least partial enclosure frame and having a major surface
defining a stationary plane, a plurality of side edges, a front
edge and a back edge. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure also includes a pair of primary platforms, each primary
platform having a major surface defining a primary plane, an inside
edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a back edge, the inside edge
being joined to one of side edges of the stationary platform such
that the primary platforms are joined to opposite side edges of the
stationary platform, each primary platform having a folded position
in which the primary plane and stationary plane are oblique or
orthogonal, and each primary platform having an extended position
where the primary platform is unfolded from the stationary
platform. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
also includes a pair of end wall assemblies where a first end wall
assembly is joined to front edges of the primary and stationary
platforms and a second end wall assembly is joined to back edges of
the primary and stationary platforms, each end wall assembly having
three segments, each segment having a major surface defining a
segment plane, side edges, a top edge and a bottom edge, the side
edges of each pair of adjacent segments being joined to each other,
the bottom edges of each segment being joined to one of front or
back edges of the stationary platform and the primary platforms,
each end wall assembly having an extended position in which the
segment planes are at an angle to both the stationary plane and the
primary plane, and each end wall assembly having a folded position.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes
a cover member movably joined to one side edge of the one of the
primary platforms to move to and from a cover position where the
cover covers at least space between the primary platforms when the
primary platforms are in the folded positions.
[0055] Implementations of the twenty-sixth general aspect may
include one or more of the following features. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where the cover member is
movably joined to the one primary platform using a hinge. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and further
including spaced apart fasteners on a side of the cover member
opposite and edge joined to the one primary platform.
[0056] A twenty-seventh general aspect includes a transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure, including: an at least partial
enclosure frame. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure also includes a stationary platform joined to the at
least partial enclosure frame and having a major surface defining a
stationary plane, a plurality of side edges, a front edge and a
back edge. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure
also includes a pair of primary platforms, each primary platform
having a major surface defining a primary plane, an inside edge, an
outside edge, a front edge, a back edge, the inside edge being
joined to one of side edges of the stationary platform such that
the primary platforms are joined to opposite side edges of the
stationary platform, each primary platform having a folded position
in which the primary plane and stationary plane are oblique or
orthogonal, and each primary platform having an extended position
where the primary platform is unfolded from the stationary
platform, where at least one primary platform includes an aperture
extending through said at least primary platform. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes a pair of end
wall assemblies where a first end wall assembly is joined to front
edges of the primary and stationary platforms and a second end wall
assembly is joined to back edges of the primary and stationary
platforms, each end wall assembly having three segments, each
segment having a major surface defining a segment plane, side
edges, a top edge and a bottom edge, the side edges of each pair of
adjacent segments being joined to each other, the bottom edges of
each segment being joined to one of front or back edges of the
stationary platform and the primary platforms, each end wall
assembly having an extended position in which the segment planes
are at an angle to both the stationary plane and the primary plane,
and each end wall assembly having a folded position.
[0057] Implementations of the twenty-seventh may include one or
more of the following features. The transportable fold-out at least
partial enclosure where each aperture incudes a removable cover.
The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where at
least one of the primary platforms includes a storage bin on a side
opposite the major surface of the primary platform. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure where the storage
bin includes a door on the storage bin allowing access into the
storage plan from the outside the enclosure. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure and further including cylinders
insertable through the apertures of length to come at least
proximate to ground surface such as ice. The transportable fold-out
at least partial enclosure where each aperture incudes a removable
cover. The transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure and
further including cylinders insertable through the apertures of
length to come at least proximate to a ground surface such as an
ice surface.
[0058] A twenty-eighth general aspect includes a transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure, including: a frame. The
transportable fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes a
stationary platform joined to the at least partial enclosure frame
and having a major surface defining a stationary plane, a plurality
of side edges, a front edge and a back edge; a lower body portion
located below the stationary platform, where the lower body portion
includes at least on aperture in a storage location below the
stationary platform. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure also includes a pair of primary platforms, each primary
platform having a major surface defining a primary plane, an inside
edge, an outside edge, a front edge, a back edge, the inside edge
being joined to one of side edges of the stationary platform such
that the primary platforms are joined to opposite side edges of the
stationary platform, each primary platform having a folded position
in which the primary plane and stationary plane are oblique or
orthogonal, and each primary platform having an extended position
where the primary platform is unfolded from the stationary
platform, where at least one primary platform includes an aperture
extending through said at least primary platform. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure also includes a pair of end
wall assemblies where a first end wall assembly is joined to front
edges of the primary and stationary platforms and a second end wall
assembly is joined to back edges of the primary and stationary
platforms, each end wall assembly having three segments, each
segment having a major surface defining a segment plane, side
edges, a top edge and a bottom edge, the side edges of each pair of
adjacent segments being joined to each other, the bottom edges of
each segment being joined to one of front or back edges of the
stationary platform and the primary platforms, each end wall
assembly having an extended position in which the segment planes
are at an angle to both the stationary plane and the primary plane,
and each end wall assembly having a folded position.
[0059] Implementations of the twenty-eighth general aspect may
include one or more of the following features. The transportable
fold-out at least partial enclosure where each aperture incudes a
removable cover. The transportable fold-out at least partial
enclosure and further including cylinders insertable through the
apertures of length to come at least proximate to a ground surface
such as an ice surface.
[0060] It should be noted any of the general aspects may be
combined with any other general aspect as well as any of the
features thereof.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0061] FIG. 1 is a perspective view an enclosure.
[0062] FIG. 1A is a detailed view of a portion of the
enclosure.
[0063] FIG. 2 is a side-elevational view of the enclosure.
[0064] FIG. 3 is a top-plane view of the enclosure with parts
removed.
[0065] FIG. 4 is a front-elevational view of the enclosure.
[0066] FIG. 4A is a front elevational view of another
enclosure.
[0067] FIG. 5 is a rear-elevational view of the enclosure with
parts removed.
[0068] FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of the enclosure with
parts removed.
[0069] FIG. 7 is a rear-elevational view of the enclosure with
parts removed.
[0070] FIG. 7A is a rear elevational view of the enclosure with
parts removed.
[0071] FIG. 7B is a partial side elevational view of the
enclosure.
[0072] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the enclosure with parts
removed.
[0073] FIG. 9 is a detailed view of a wall assembly.
[0074] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of a wall assembly.
[0075] FIG. 11 is a side-elevational view of the enclosure.
[0076] FIG. 11A is another side-elevational view of the
enclosure.
[0077] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the enclosure with parts
removed.
[0078] FIG. 12A is perspective view of the enclosure with parts
removed.
[0079] FIG. 12B is a perspective view of the enclosure with part
removed.
[0080] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the enclosure with parts
removed.
[0081] FIG. 14 is a detailed view of a collapsible support
rail.
[0082] FIG. 15 is a partial perspective view of the enclosure with
parts removed.
[0083] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the enclosure.
[0084] FIG. 16A is a perspective view of the enclosure.
[0085] FIG. 16B is a perspective view of the enclosure.
[0086] FIG. 17 is a detailed view of a rear-panel of the
enclosure.
[0087] FIG. 18 is a detailed view of a rear-panel of the
enclosure.
[0088] FIG. 19 is a detailed view of a rear-panel of the
enclosure.
[0089] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the enclosure with parts
removed.
[0090] FIG. 20A is a detailed view of a rear-panel of the
enclosure.
[0091] FIG. 20B is a perspective view of a portion of a wall
assembly.
[0092] FIG. 20C is a perspective view of a portion of a wall
assembly.
[0093] FIG. 21 is a detailed view of a portion of a roof of the
enclosure.
[0094] FIG. 22 is a detailed view of a portion of a platform.
[0095] FIG. 22A is a schematic view of a wall separator.
[0096] FIG. 23 is a detailed view of a portion of a wall.
[0097] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the enclosure.
[0098] FIG. 24A is perspective view of the enclosure.
[0099] FIG. 24B is a left-side elevational view of the
enclosure.
[0100] FIG. 24C is a right-side elevational view of the
enclosure.
[0101] FIG. 24D is a bottom-plane view of the enclosure.
[0102] FIG. 24E is a perspective view of the enclosure.
[0103] FIG. 24F is a left-side elevational view of the
enclosure.
[0104] FIG. 24G is a right-side elevational view of the
enclosure.
[0105] FIG. 25 is a schematic view of a portion of the perspective
view of the enclosure with parts removed.
[0106] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the enclosure with parts
removed.
[0107] FIG. 27 is a detailed view of a portion of a wall.
[0108] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of an enclosure.
[0109] FIG. 29 is a detailed view of portion of a wall.
[0110] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the enclosure with parts
removed.
[0111] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the enclosure with parts
removed.
[0112] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the enclosure with parts
removed.
[0113] FIG. 33 is a schematic view of a wall assembly.
[0114] FIG. 34 is a front-elevational view of an enclosure.
[0115] FIG. 35 is a schematic panel.
[0116] FIG. 36 is a schematic view of panels.
[0117] FIG. 37 is a partial bottom-plane view of the enclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0118] Aspects of the invention will be described with respect to
fold-out transportable partial or complete enclosure that in one
embodiment is particularly advantageously used as a camper such as
but not limited to be mounted to a trailer. However, it should be
understood that a trailer mounted fold-out camper is but one
embodiment where aspects of the invention can be incorporated on
other folding or expanding trailers, or on other forms of trailers
that are not necessarily used for camping or even on equipment that
is generally pulled by another vehicle or device. Likewise aspects
of the invention can be used as a fold-out partial or complete
enclosure mounted to a vehicle such as a pickup, truck or boat or
merely carried by such vehicles or trailers and when deployed is
deployed away from the transport vehicle or trailer. Below a
"camper" is referenced; however, as indicated above this is to be
understood generally as an enclosure when the canopy or other roof
structure is present, but since the canopy or roof structure is
removable, aspects of the invention also pertain to a partial
enclosure.
[0119] General Description
[0120] The camper 10 as shown in the Figures and described herein
has some features also present in the camper described in U.S. Pat.
Nos. 7,967,369 and 9,205,881 the contents of which are hereby
incorporated by reference in their entirety. In the exemplary
embodiment illustrated, the camper 10 includes a trailer frame 15,
at least one primary folding platform 21, at least one wall
assembly 23 and if desired when mounted or carried by a trailer a
wheel assembly 25, which can also be extendible (FIG. 4) and
retractable (FIG. 1) in width if desired. These components
cooperatively form a fold-out camper 10 that has a small profile
when in a folded position 13 as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 4 that
can be used on both narrow and wide paths. Additionally, the camper
10 has a large covered living/storage area when in an opened
position 14 (FIG. 1) where a flexible covering 17 is joined to and
extends between the wall assemblies 23 and the primary platforms
21.
[0121] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the trailer frame 15 can
have a tongue 22 joined to a hitch 24. The hitch 24 can, in turn,
be joined to a vehicle, such as a car or an all-terrain vehicle, or
any other motor-powered object that is configured to receive the
hitch 24 and pull the camper 10. These components are of standard
size, strength and materials as are found throughout the field of
trailers. The tongue 22 is joined to a frame 15 having stationary
platform 28, which can be of any material of suitable size and
strength. The stationary platform 28 forms a center portion of the
floor between the primary platforms 21 when the camper 10 is in the
expanded, open position 14. As such, the stationary platform 28 may
be insulated or have a floor covering, such as carpet. The
stationary platform 28/frame 15 can also include one or several
storage compartments 33 (FIG. 2) that are accessible through at
least one access door 31 (See. FIG. 3 where the flexible covering
17 has been removed). If desired, access door(s) can be provided
along the side(s) of the frame 15 so as to allow access when the
camper 10 is in the folded position 13.
[0122] Referring to FIG. 3, the stationary platform 28 has a major
surface 30 defining a stationary plane 31, a plurality of side
edges 32, a front edge 35 and a back edge 36. The stationary
platform 28 is joined to and supported by frame 15. The camper 10
includes at least one primary folding platform 21. The primary
folding platform 21 has a major surface 42, an inside edge 44 and
an outside edge 46. In one embodiment as illustrated, there are two
primary platforms 21. The inside edge 44 of the primary platform 21
is desirably joined to one side edge 32 of the stationary platform
28 via a hinge that is configured in a preferred embodiment to have
the major surfaces 42 generally parallel to each other and the
stationary platform 28, if not co-planar.
[0123] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, ground supports 58 are provided
to support each of the primary platforms 21 in the extended, open
position 14. Ground supports 58 are configured to engage a ground
surface, e.g., dirt, sand, tar, gravel, etc. The ground supports 58
are part of a stabilizing support system, which include receivers
62 mounted to frame 15 that receive ends of lateral support members
64. The primary platforms 21 rest upon the pair of lateral supports
64 provided on each side of the camper 10 in the unfolded position
14.
[0124] Ground supports 58 are removably attached to ends of the
lateral supports 64 remote from receivers 62 where, for example,
ground supports 58 each include ends 66 similar in size to
receivers 62 such that ends of the lateral supports 64 can extend
therein. Suitable pins, bolts or the like indicated at 63 can
extend through apertures in the ends 66 and lateral supports 64 to
secure each of the ground supports 58 in place. Likewise, pins,
bolts or the like 69 can extend through apertures in the receivers
62 and lateral supports 64 to secure each of the lateral supports
64 to the trailer frame 15. In a further embodiment discussed
below, the lateral supports 64 can be adjustable with respect to
extension from the frame 15. This is illustrated in FIG. 4 where
the left side lateral support 64 extends only partway from the
frame 15 whereas the remainder of the lateral support 64 extends
into a middle portion of the frame 15 below stationary frame 28.
The right side lateral support 64 illustrates an aperture 67 to
receive fastener 69 present at receiver 62. If desired, more than
one aperture 67 can be provided to allow extension of the lateral
support 64 to be adjustable.
[0125] The primary platform 21 has a folded position 52 (FIG. 4) in
which the plane of the platform 21 and stationary plane or surface
31 can be oriented so as to be oblique or orthogonal, e.g.,
non-parallel or perpendicular with respect to stationary platform
28. One skilled in the art can see how the angle of the platform 21
to the stationary platform 28 directly impacts any "top heavy"
issues and trunk size issues. In the folded position 52, the
primary folding platform 21 is used as an outer-most enclosure,
enclosing some of the remaining components of the trailer, such as,
for example, the wall assemblies 23. The primary platform 21 has an
extended position 54 (e.g. FIG. 1) in which the platforms 21 and
stationary platform 28 are parallel, and in one embodiment,
co-planar. That is, the primary platform 21 forms a portion of the
floor and as such may be insulated or have floor coverings
including carpet as desired. In one embodiment, two primary
platforms 21 are provided, one folding on each side of the
stationary platform 28.
[0126] Referring back to FIG. 1, the camper 10 also includes at
least one wall assembly 23 which may have at least one segment
generally indicated by reference number 72 and perhaps windows 98.
In one embodiment there are two wall assemblies 23 and three wall
segments 72A, 72B and 72C per wall assembly 23. The wall assemblies
23 form rigid sides to the fold-out camper 10 when in the extended
position 14. Each wall segment 72 has a major surface 74 defining a
segment plane having side edges 76, a top edge 78 and a bottom
edge. Side edges 76 of adjacent wall segments 72 are preferably
joined via a hinge 56. Bottom edges 80 of each wall segment 72 are
preferably joined to one of the stationary platform 28 and the
primary platform 21 via a hinge 81, which may be a stepped up hinge
as needed. Each wall assembly 23 desirably has an extended position
86 in which the assembly is at an angle to both the stationary
platform 28 and the primary platforms 21 to form a wall with
respect to the stationary platform 28 and the primary platforms 21,
which can be perpendicular, but need not be, and a folded position
in which the segments 72 are laid upon each other such as but not
necessarily parallel to one of the primary platforms 21 and the
stationary platform 28. One or more of the wall assemblies 23 may
have a door 82 in a wall segment for ingress and egress.
[0127] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 3, when the wall assemblies
23 are in the extended position 86, the canopy 17 extends
therebetween so as to provide a roof and/or walls, being secured to
the wall segments 72. The canopy 17 may further be secured to
outside edges of each primary platform 21. While the canopy 17 may
be attached when the wall assemblies 23 are in the folded position
84, such is not necessary. Struts 71 (FIG. 8) or other support
structure extending between the wall assemblies 23 may be used to
add structural support to keep the wall assemblies 23 upright and
the canopy 17 in the extended position. In one embodiment, the
canopy 17 is of a tent awning or marine grade fabric known in the
art, such as, but not limited to, nylon and/or canvas. The fabric
can be made of a variety of suitable materials. For example, some
fabric characteristics can include puncture-resistant,
mildew-resistant and mold-resistant properties. The fabric can also
include properties so as to have ultra-violet protection.
[0128] Lift Mechanism for Primary Platform(s)
[0129] Referring to FIG. 5, one aspect of the invention herein
disclosed includes a lift mechanism 100 to provide a lifting force
to lift or aid in the lifting of the primary platforms 21 between
each respective folded position 52 and each extended position 54. A
first embodiment of the lift mechanism 100 is illustrated in FIG. 5
where portions of the camper 10 have been removed such as the back
wall assembly 23 and the wall segment 72A of the front wall
assembly 23. In addition to providing a lifting force for lifting
the primary platform 21, the lift mechanism 100 can also provide a
force against gravity such that the primary platforms 21 can move
from the folded position 52 to the extended position 54 slowly.
[0130] Generally, the lift mechanism 100 includes a vertical
support 102 and lift devices 103. The vertical support 102 is
coupled to the frame 15 with an elevated portion 104 above a level
of the stationary platform 28. In the embodiment illustrated, the
vertical support 102 forms part of or is connected to a storage
compartment 106 (e.g. FIG. 2) on one end of the camper 10, although
inclusion of the vertical support 102 with the storage compartment
106 is not necessary. In addition, it should be noted that in the
exemplary embodiment the vertical support 102 is located on a
forward end of the camper 10 herein defined as being the end
closest to the hitch 24. This location although convenient is not
necessary.
[0131] The lift devices 103 are operably coupled to each the
primary platforms 21 and the vertical support 102. Generally, each
lift device 103 is configured to provide a lift force on the
primary platform 21 when it is in its extended position 54 to at
least aid in its movement toward its folded position 52, although
in an advantageous embodiment the lift device 103 moves the primary
platform 21 between the extended and folded positions with only
minimal aid from a user of the camper. Each lift device 103 has a
first end 103A operably coupled to the portion 104 of the vertical
support 102 and a second end 103B operably coupled to the primary
platform 21 at a position lateral of the portion 104 so as to form
a line of action extending that is oblique to the vertical support
102 and primary platform 21 since the second end 103B is lateral of
the hinged side edges of the stationary platform 28 and the primary
platform 21.
[0132] The lift mechanism 100 can take many forms. In the
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, a separate lift device 103 is
provided for each primary platform 21 and comprises a telescoping
actuating device. For instance, the lift device 103 can comprise a
powered linear actuator (hydraulic, pneumatic or electric). If
embodied as a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator, such as a double or
single acting actuator lines 105 are provided between each of the
lift devices 103 and a source of pressurized fluid such as a pump
107 schematically illustrated in FIG. 5. If the lift device 103 is
electrically operated, lines 105 represent power cables. Lift
device 103 can also comprise a ball screw having a threaded rod
extendable and retractable by relative rotation of the threaded rod
with respect to a nut. In yet another embodiment, the lift device
103 can comprise a linear actuator having a spring (mechanical
and/or gas charged) configured to provide a force retracting the
telescoping parts together. When embodied as a linear actuator,
each end 103A, 103B can be pivotally joined to the vertical support
102 and to the primary platform 21 as illustrated at bracket 106
(see also FIG. 6) such that as the linear actuator 103 retracts,
the linear actuator 103 will pivot relative to the vertical support
102 and the bracket 106 so that when the primary platform 21 is in
its folded position 52, the linear actuator 103 is generally at an
angle parallel to the primary platform 21 in the folded position 52
as illustrated with dashed lines in FIG. 5; however, this should
not be considered limiting.
[0133] FIG. 7 illustrates a lifting mechanism 120 comprising a
rotating drum or hoist 122 to which flexible members (e.g. cables,
belts, straps etc.) 124 are connected with ends of the flexible
members 124 secured to edges of the primary platforms 21. As with
the lift mechanism 100 described above, lift mechanism 120 also has
a line of action extending that is oblique to the vertical support
102 and primary platform 21 since the second end 103B is lateral of
the hinged side edges of the stationary platform 28 and the primary
platform 21. In this embodiment, a single drum 122 and associated
electric drive motor is provided where pulleys 126 guide each
flexible member 124. It should be noted that separate drives and
drums can be provided for each platform 21 if desired. Likewise,
other embodiments may not have any pulleys to guide the flexible
members, or may have more than one pulley for each flexible member
124.
[0134] One advantageous feature of the lift mechanism 100 or 120
described above is its location on the camper 10. Referring to
FIGS. 1 and 3, the lift devices 103 or flexible members 124 and
pulleys 126 operate in recesses 130 generally between an outer
surface of wall segment 72A and opposed surfaces of the vertical
support 102, which as indicated above, can be storage compartment
106. It should be noted the side walls of the recesses 130 can be
from panels of the vertical support 102 rather than a side of wall
segment 72A, but even if such side walls are present, the recesses
130 can still be regarded as being between support 102 and wall
segment 72A.
[0135] FIG. 7 is a rear view of the camper 10 with parts removed.
Side panels 109 of storage compartment 106 can be provided that
extend transversely to the outer surface of the wall segment 72A
and are aligned with an opening 111 in the wall segment 72A so to
create a passageway between an interior of the camper 10 when in
the extended position 14 and at least an areas of the storage
compartment 106, which could include an opening extending into the
storage compartment 106 and/or to a surface of the storage
compartment 106 now facing into the enclosed space of the camper
10. The side panels 109 can further define the recesses 130 in
which the lift devices 103 can reside. In an advantageous
embodiment, each of the primary platforms 21 include extending
flanges 132 of sufficient length that operate as covers for the
recesses 130 when each primary platform is in its folded position
(see e.g. FIGS. 2 and 3). In this manner, components of the lift
mechanism 100 or 120 are concealed in the folded position of the
primary platforms 21, which also protects components of the lift
mechanisms 100 and 120 during transportation of the camper 10. It
should be noted that having an opening in a wall segment that
aligns with a panel or opening in a structure such as storage
compartment 106 when the wall assembly is raised is not limited to
only the middle wall segments 72A, but rather in addition or in the
alternative openings can be provided in the other wall segments 72B
and/or 72C.
[0136] Wall Assembly Lift Mechanism
[0137] Another aspect of the invention is a lift or actuating
mechanism 140 configured to provide a force to urge at least one of
the wall segments 72A, 72B or 72C from its folded position where
the wall segment is down against or proximate to primary platform
21 or stationary platform 28 (or on the other wall assembly 23) in
a folded position to the extended position where the wall segment
is in an upright position. In a preferred embodiment, the actuating
mechanism 140 is further configured to provide a force resisting
falling of the wall segment to the folded position. Since the wall
segments 72A, 72B and 72C are joined together with hinges 56
typically comprising one or more sheets of flexible material, force
applied to one or more of the wall segments 72A, 72B or 72C will
aid in raising or lowering the wall assembly 73 as a unit.
[0138] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the lift mechanism can comprise
a spring such as a torsion spring 142 operably coupled to a wall
segment such as wall segment 72B by way of example and the primary
platform 21 to which wall segment 72 is pivotally coupled to by
hinge 81. Generally, spring 142 has a first end 142A coupled to
wall segment 72B and a second end 142B coupled to primary platform
21. A torsion element of the spring 142 comprises a center section
142C. In the embodiment illustrated, the torsion spring 142 is
commonly known as a torque arm or torque bar where each of ends
142A, 142B and center section 142C are elongated. This
configuration is particular advantageous allowing each of ends 142A
and 142B to be disposed in grooves or channels 146 and 148 provided
in wall segment 72B and primary platform 21, respectively, while
center section 142C is disposed adjacent or proximate to hinge 81.
In the embodiment illustrated, the ends 142A and 142B are disposed
on side edges of the wall segment 72B and primary platform 21. For
a torque arm or torque bar the center section 142C is also
elongated allowing the center section 142C to be disposed parallel
to edges of the wall segment 72C and primary platform 21. Clamp
blocks 150 on either side of the center section 142C hold the
torque bar 142 in place.
[0139] Although a torsion spring could be provided for each of wall
segments 72A, 72B and 72C, it has been found torsion springs 142
operably coupled between wall segments 72B and 72C and each of
their corresponding primary platforms 21 provides sufficient force
such that the complete wall assembly 23 with wall segment 72A
joined to each of wall segments 72B and 72C via hinges 56 can be
lifted with minimal effort even if a door 82 is present. In an
alternative embodiment, one or more torsion springs can be operably
coupled to center wall segment 72A, where the connection of wall
segments 72B and 72C via hinges 56 can cause wall segments 72A and
72B to be lifted and lowered due to the force applied to wall
segment 72A. It should be noted other forms of torsion springs can
be used.
[0140] Inside Access to Front Storage Compartment
[0141] As indicated above and illustrated further in FIG. 8 the
opening 111 in wall segment 72A of the front wall assembly 23
aligns with an aperture or opening 107A of the storage compartment
106 defined by edges of side panels 109 and an upper panel 113
joined to upper ends of side panels 109 when the wall segment 72A
is in an extended or upright position. As such the storage
compartment 106 can be considered a partial enclosure mounted to
trailer frame 15 between the hitch 24 and the front edge of the
stationary panel 28. As illustrated in the various figures the
enclosure 106 includes side 106A, wherein each side 106A is
configured so as to align with one of the front edges (or flanges
132) of the primary platforms 21 in the folded position (e.g. FIG.
2). In one embodiment, one or more removable or hinged door panels
106B can be provided on sides 106A or a front portion 106C as
desired to provide access within storage compartment 106. However,
in view of openings 107 and 111 also being aligned, access to
within the storage compartment 106 is also possible from inside the
camper 10 when wall assemblies 23 are in the upright positions.
[0142] Although in one embodiment, a simple door panel can be
provided to close opening 107 from within the camper 10. The
opening 107 provides a large enough opening to enable one or more
devices desired, for example, for camping to be stored in the
storage compartment 106 and accessed from within the camper 10.
Such exemplary devices or components include a heater, a pull out
sink, pull out cooktop, one or more storage drawers, entertainment
systems including TVs, computers or the like, or a panel(s) having
electrical outlets or water control valves. In a preferred
embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 7, the storage compartment 106
includes inner support structural elements comprised of horizontal
brace(s) represented by brace 156 extending across opening 107
although other braces may be provided extending inwardly for
example transversely to brace 156. The inner support structural
elements can include one or more mounting brackets represented by
brackets 158, and/or mounting apertures represented by apertures
160 in brace 156, but can be provided on other support structural
elements within storage compartment 106. The afore-mentioned
devices may include a heater, a pull out sink, pull out cooktop,
one or more storage drawers, entertainment systems including TVs,
computers or the like, or a panel(s) having electrical outlets or
water valves are preferably configured to have front panels that
are the same as at least some other devices in height and width.
The overall height and width of the devices extending within the
storage compartment would preferably also not exceed the selected
height and width of the front panel. This is exemplified in FIG. 7A
with such devices represented by components 155A and 155B being of
the same width and height. This simplifies arrangement of devices
within the storage compartment 106. For instance, a storage drawer
or drawer assembly could have the same dimensions as the pullout
cooktop, sink or heater. In this manner, one configuration could
have a heater located in a lowermost position in the storage
compartment 106 with the heater outlet panel extending across a
lower portion of the opening 107, while a storage drawer is located
directly above the heater outlet panel and across the opening 107
and pullout cooktop is located above the storage drawer. However,
if the heater and heater outlet panel are of the same height and
width as the storage drawer, in another configuration a second
storage drawer can be put in place of the heater and heater outlet
panel. Furthermore, a user could selectively exchange one of the
drawers with the heater and heater outlet panel when the user
desires the heater instead of the storage drawer. In one
embodiment, two or more devices would be interchangeable because
each of the devices have similar slides such as those found on
storage drawers.
[0143] Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, in a particular advantageous
embodiment, storage compartment 106 houses a portable toilet 163
such as is commonly available and used during camping or on boats.
Typically, the portable toilet 163 is small, lightweight and can be
carried by hand. The toilet 163 is accessible from inside the
camper with the end wall assemblies 23 erect through the opening
107. Thus, the user need not leave the inside of the trailer to use
the toilet 163. When use is desired, the user simply pulls and/or
lifts the toilet 163 out of the storage compartment 106 through the
opening 107, returning it back to the storage compartment 106 when
use is completed. In one embodiment, the toilet 163 can be mounted
to a movable support such as the spaced apart brackets 158
(possibly extendible) (FIG. 7A) mounted on sides of the toilet 163,
preferably in a manner that allows the toilet 163 to be removed
when desired. In the embodiment illustrated, the movable support
comprises a platform or tray 165 that is secured to inside the
compartment 106 and can extend in and out of storage compartment
106 through access opening 107. This arrangement allows the toilet
163 to be pulled out of the storage compartment 106 and slid back
into the compartment 106 with little handling. In a further
embodiment, one or more holding devices 166 are provided to
removably hold the toilet 163 to the tray 165, thereby securing the
orientation of the toilet 163 during transportation of the camper
10, but also allowing the user to decouple the toilet 163 from the
tray 165 for servicing. In a particular convenient configuration,
the toilet 163 can also be accessed from one of the doors 106B
forming the storage compartment 106, such as one or both of side
doors and/or front door 106B. In this manner, the toilet 163 can be
accessed and removed from the storage compartment 106 for use or
servicing when the camper is folded up and in a transport
configuration.
[0144] Side Support Structure
[0145] Referring back to FIGS. 4 and 11, another aspect of the
present invention includes a side support structure 170 that is
removably secured to the frame 15 when the primary platform 21 on
the side that the side support structure 170 is mounted on is in
its folded position. The side support structure 170 is configured
to support an article in an elevated position when the camper 10 is
transported or in storage.
[0146] In an advantageous embodiment, the side support structure
170 uses the lateral supports 64 and/or receivers 62 to be
supported on the camper 10. Generally, the side support structure
170 includes bars, hooks, racks, etc. in configurations suitable
for holding the desired article in the elevated position. In many
embodiments, one or more horizontal support bars 174, 178 and
vertical support bars 176 are present in the support structure 170.
In a preferred embodiment, at least one horizontal support bar 174
is of length to extend along the camper 10 so as to structurally
connect the lateral supports 64 from the receivers 62 together on
each end of the camper 10. However, it should be noted although the
camper 10 illustrated includes two lateral supports 64 to support
each platform 21 this should not be considered limiting in that if
desired more than two lateral supports 64 and/or associated
receivers 62 can be disposed along the length of the camper 10 such
that one or more pairs of lateral supports 64 can be connected
together with horizontal support bars and/or the lateral supports
64 may extend out of from the camper at different lengths. This
allows the support structure 170 to be configured as necessary to
hold one or more articles on each side of the camper.
[0147] In FIG. 11 a single horizontal support bar 174 and a single
vertical support bar 176 are used to provide support for a bicycle
(or motorcycle) 178 indicated in dashed lines, although this
specific embodiment should not be considered limiting. Support bar
174 can include a receiver 80 similar to ends 66 of the ground
supports 58 to receive an end of the lateral support 64. In an
alternative embodiment, the side support structure 170 can include
bars of size so as to be inserted in lateral supports 64 rather
than around an outer surface. In addition or in the alternative,
the support structure 170 can include horizontal shelve(s) for
coolers or other containers. Likewise, brackets, clamps or the like
can be provided for paddle board(s), skis, kayaks, canoes, etc.
[0148] Another embodiment of an accessory support structure is
illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 11A at 170A. In general, the support
structure 170A is configured to extend over the camper in the
folded, travel configuration. The support structure 170A includes
lateral supports 64 extending from each of the receivers 62.
Vertical support bars 176A extend upwardly from ends of each
lateral support 64 to a height above the camper in the folded
configuration. Upper support bars 173A extends laterally between
each pair of vertical support bars 176A at the rear of the camper
and at a front portion of the camper. Typically, at least one or
more longitudinal support bars 175A are connected to and extend
between the upper support bars 173A above the height of the camper
in the folded position. The upper support bars 173A and the
longitudinal support bars 175A support one or more items above the
camper such as a boat 177A, which in this embodiment has been
flipped over with its hull directed upwardly. The upper support
bars 173A and/or longitudinal support bars 175A can be used with
plates, hooks, cages, baskets to name just a few to support other
objects over the camper in the folded position. In a further
embodiment, the lateral supports 64 adjustably telescope to fixed
positions so as to allow a distance between the vertical support
bars 176A to be adjustable. Likewise, the upper support bars 173A
can be adjustable such as have telescoping parts so that the width
of the upper support bars 173A can be adjusted to match the width
between the vertical support bars 176A.
[0149] Helicopter Lift Assembly
[0150] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4A, the receivers 62 and extendible
lateral supports 64 provide convenient and secure attachment points
for lifting the camper 10 using a helicopter (not shown).
Generally, a lift assembly 179A preferably includes at least four
lift cables 179B each secured to lateral support 64 using a ring or
shackle 179C secured to an end of each lateral support 64, where
each lateral support 64 has been extended to a position and secured
to each corresponding receiver 62 that makes a convenient angle of
inclination for the associated lift cable 179B. In a further
preferred embodiment an additional lift cable 179D is secured to a
front portion of the camper 10 such as to tongue 22 again using a
ring or shackle 179C. The lift assembly 179 can include an
intermediate lift member 179E to which the lift cables 179B, 179D
are connected or be directly connected to a lift ring 179F. In the
embodiment illustrated, the lift ring 179F is secured to
intermediate lift member 179E. It should be understood that support
structure 170 may not be present depending on any interference the
support structure 170A may cause with the lift cables 179B, 179D.
However, it is possible to adjust the length of the lateral
supports 64 and/or adjust the position of the components forming
the support structure 170A or the other support structures
described herein so as to allow the support structures to be used
with the lift assembly 179A.
[0151] Collapsible Side Support Frame
[0152] Another aspect of the invention is a collapsible side
support frame 180, for example illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13. The
side support frame 180 includes at least one movable elongated
horizontal support 182 secured to the primary platform 21 to
selectively move from a first position wherein the elongated
horizontal support 182 is parallel with and proximate a major
surface 21A of the primary platform 21 and a second position
wherein the elongated horizontal support 182 is elevated above the
major surface 21A generally parallel to a side or outer edge 21B of
the primary platform 21 opposite the stationary platform 28. Ends
184 of the support frame 180 engage each of the wall assemblies 23
(in the illustrated example wall segments 72B when the wall
assemblies 23 are in the extended positions). In a preferred
embodiment, the support frame 180 is pivotally joined to the
primary platform 21B, preferably proximate to the outside edge 21B
of platform 21 with hinges 186. In a further preferred embodiment,
each of hinges 186 are mounted to an elongated support 188, while
transverse supports 190 join support 180 to support 188 such that
the support frame 180 can be lifted as a single rectangular
structure.
[0153] FIG. 14 illustrates end 184 in detail. A clasp 192 is
mounted to wall segment 72B and releasably receives a projection
194 comprising end 184. The clasp 192 preferably includes clasp
components 192A, 192B (fingers, plates, etc.) connected together
with one or more springs, or one or more of the clasp components
192A, 192B being for example made of at least somewhat flexible
material act like springs. The components 192A, 192B spread apart
from each other under tension when the projection 194 is inserted
into the clasp 192. In the embodiment illustrated, the clasp 192
releases the projection 194 when the end 184 is pulled away from
the clasp 192.
[0154] In a further embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, a panel 180A
can be mounted to one or more of the supports 182, 188, 190
comprising the rectangular support frame 180. A portion of the
panel 180A is broken away so that surface 21A of platform 21 can be
seen; however, typically, the panel 180A will extend along the
complete length of the support frame 180. When the support frame
180 is erect and in place between the wall assemblies, the panel
180A provides a covering over the flexible fabric material 17
forming the side wall of the camper between the wall assemblies.
The panel 180A thus protects the fabric material 17 from damage
when items may be placed adjacent the side fabric walls of the
camper. When the support frame 180 includes additional components
to function as a cot, table bench or the like as discussed below,
the panel 180A can provide a sense of security to an individual
that may be sleeping below cot, table, bench or the like.
[0155] FIG. 15 illustrates that the support frame 180 can be used
to form collapsible structures useful inside the camper 10. An
example of such a structure is illustrated between wall segments
72A of each of the opposed wall assemblies 23. In this example, the
collapsible side support frame 180 includes a plurality of
horizontal supports 194A, 194B secured to each other with lateral
supports 196A to form an upper support frame 198 that is elevated
above the major surface 21A of the platform 21 when the elongated
horizontal support 182 is in the elevated position where ends 184
of the support frame 180 engage each of the wall assemblies 23. In
a preferred embodiment horizontal support 194A is joined to support
182 with hinges 200, allowing the upper support 198 to nest within
support frame 180 when in a collapsed position either when the
support frame 180 is erect between the opposed wall assemblies 23
or lying against platform 21 in a storage position. To hold the
upper support frame 198 in an elevated position, secondary vertical
supports 202 are preferably pivotally joined to the upper support
frame 198 at locations spaced apart from each other. Each of the
secondary vertical supports 202 can also nest within support frame
180, herein also nesting within upper support frame 198. In one
embodiment, the upper support frame 198 can also include a rigid
panel, a small portion of which is illustrated at 204. In this
manner, the collapsible support frame 180 can function as a table
or a bench depending on the height of the upper support frame 198
above the surface 21A. The panel 204 can be used to provide a
support sleeping surface such as with a mattress to form a bed. If
desired, portion 204 can also represent a portion of fabric that
can be stretched across the upper support frame 198 so as to
provide a cot as the sleeping surface.
[0156] With the various components nested as described, the support
frame 180 with the upper frame 198 and the secondary vertical
supports 202 can lay flat against the surface 21A of the primary
platform 21 as illustrated in FIG. 3. Being fixedly secured to the
primary platform 21, the collapsible support frame 180 will remain
secured to the primary platform 21 when the primary platform 21 is
raised to its folded position 52. The height of the hinges 81
connecting the wall segments 72A, 72B of the wall assemblies 23 to
the stationary platform 28 and primary platforms 21 are of height
so that the wall segments 72A, 72B lie or flat relative to each
other and the surface 21A and trap the collapsible support frame
180 between the wall segments 72A, 72B and the surface 21A.
[0157] In another embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12A, the upper
support frame 198 is extendable to have at least two different
operable widths, for example, where the first operable width
position corresponds to a width suitable for one person to sleep
when functioning as a cot, while a second operable width position
corresponds to a width suitable for two people to sleep (such as
wide enough to accommodate a standard queen size mattress, about 60
inches in width). In FIG. 12, the upper support frame 198 is in a
first operable width position where the upper support frame 198 has
a width similar to that as illustrated in FIG. 15, while FIG. 12A
illustrates the upper support frame 198 in a second operable width
position that is wider than the first operable width position. Note
that in the second operable width the upper support frame 198
extends beyond the hinged, joined edges 32 of the primary platform
21 and the stationary platform due to the location of the legs 202,
which are supported by the stationary platform 28 in FIG. 12A
versus the primary platform 21 in FIG. 12.
[0158] In the embodiment of FIGS. 12 and 12A, the lateral supports
196A, 196B are formed from extendable portions that are connectable
together in the two operable positions such as being of telescoping
parts. Additional legs 203 can be provided, for example, hinged to
the lateral supports 196A, 196B so as to fold like legs 202. In the
embodiment illustrated, legs 203 remain in the same position
whether the upper support frame 198 is configured in the first or
second operable width, while legs 202 move to different locations.
In other words, each leg 203 is pivotally connected to an
associated lateral support 196A at one end, while the second end of
each leg 203 contacts surface 21A. If desired, another horizontal
support 194C can extend between lateral supports 196A and have a
pivotally connected leg similar to the middle pivotally connected
leg 202 connected to horizontal support 194B.
[0159] Each lateral support 196B is movably connected to each
associated lateral support 196A such as sliding relatively to each
other, for example in a telescoping manner Legs 202 at the ends of
support 194B are pivotally connected to support 194B or remote ends
of lateral supports 196B. In the second operable width, the legs
202 contact the stationary platform 28.
[0160] In FIGS. 12 and 12A, the upper support frame 198 supports an
optional panel 205 that can be used to form a support surface for a
one or two person mattress or the like. In FIGS. 12 and 12A the
panel 205 is broken away so as to illustrate legs 203 pivotally
joined to lateral support 196A. The panel 205 can comprise two
portions 205A, 205B, where the width of panel portion 205A is
sufficient for the first operable width and together the panel
portions 205A, 205B are of sufficient width for the second operable
width. If desired, the panel portions 205A, 205B can be hinged
together, where when the upper support frame 198 is configured with
the first operable width, panel portion 205B overlaps panel portion
205A. Hence, the panel 205 can be folded and laid flat with the
upper support frame 198, when the upper support frame 198 lays flat
relative to the primary platform 21.
[0161] In yet a further embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12b, the
upper support frame 198 is extendable to the second operable width
by attaching a second portion 198A (schematically illustrated) to
the supports 194B, 196A rather than having supports 196A, 196B be
extendable relative to each other. The second portion 198A includes
a support 207 that is substantially parallel to support 194B, while
supports 209A and 209B are substantially parallel to supports 196A,
196B. The second portion 198A includes legs 211, which can be
hinged to or removable from the supports 207, 209A and/or 209B.
[0162] It should be noted additional legs, lateral or horizontal
supports can be included where needed to provide the desired
rigidity to the panel 205 in any of the foregoing embodiments.
[0163] Removable Rear Cover Functions as a Support Surface
[0164] Another aspect of the invention is a rear cover 250 (FIG.
16) of the camper 10 that can be relocatable and secured to other
components of the camper 10 to function as a table. The rear cover
250 has a lower edge 252, an upper edge 254 shorter than the lower
edge 252 (when mounted to the camper 10 in the folded, travel
position) and a pair of side edges 256. Each side edge 256 extends
from a corner of the lower edge 252 to a corner of the upper edge
254 at an angle substantially coinciding with an angle
corresponding to the angle of inclination of the primary platform
21 with the stationary platform 28 in each folded position thereof.
Latches 258 secure the rear cover 250 to each of the primary
platforms 21, while a pair of mounts 260 (one of which is
illustrated in FIG. 17) are secured to the frame 15. Each mount 260
includes a hook 263 that removably receives a pin 265 of a portion
or coupler 264 secured to the lower edge 252 of the rear cover
250.
[0165] With the latches unlocked and the rear cover 250 removed
from its location at the back of the camper 10, the rear cover 250
can be located at any one of numerous locations in or outside the
camper 10 to function as a table. FIG. 8 illustrates a first
exemplary position where the rear cover 250 is mounted to wall
segment 72A across opening 111. Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, a
mount 280 is provided on each side of the opening 111 secured to
wall segment 72A. The mount 280 also includes a hook 283 that
receives pin 265 of the coupler 264. A stop or flange element 290
inhibits upward movement of the pin 265 out of the hook 283 unless
the stop 290 is moved out of the way. In the embodiment
illustrated, the stop 290 pivots from pin 292 hanging in a
downwardly direction under the influence of gravity to maintain its
position inhibiting pin 265 from departing hook 283. When it is
desired to remove the rear cover from the mount 280, stop 290 is
rotated so as to no longer be a blocking element.
[0166] Referring back to FIG. 8, the rear cover 250 is supported by
a leg 300 at an end generally close to edge 254. In a preferred
embodiment, the leg 300 is at least partially removably attached to
an inner surface of the rear cover 250. For instance, the leg 300
can be joined at one end to an inner surface of the rear cover 250
such that when desired, the leg 300 can be rotated or pivoted
downwardly substantially orthogonal to the inner surface of the
cover 250. When not functioning as a table leg, leg 300 can be
rotated so as to be substantially parallel to the inner surface of
the cover 250 when mounted back on the camper to function as a rear
cover secured to the primary platforms 21.
[0167] As indicated above, the rear cover 250 can be mounted to
numerous locations on the camper that is wherever a pair of mounts
similar to mounts 280 described above are provided. Referring to
FIGS. 3, 20 and 20A, the edge 252 of the rear cover 250 can be
secured to components of the collapsible support frame 180, for
example to horizontal support 182. If desired, mounts 310 similar
to mounts 280 can be moveably secured to support 182 such that the
mounts 310 and the rear cover 250 can be easily moved as desired
along the support 182 as indicated by double arrow 311.
[0168] If desired, rear cover 250 can also be tilted upwardly so as
to free up floor space within the camper 10. In the embodiment
illustrated, mount 310 includes a hinge 313 between members 315A
and 315B of mount 310. Hook 283 and stop 290 are mounted to member
315A and rotate with rear cover 250 to a vertical position or at
least vertically inclined, elevated position. Support portion 315C,
which extends from an inwardly facing surface 182A of support 182,
around a lower surface 182B, along a back surface 182C and is
joined to or made integral from a single unitary body with member
315B inhibits all motion of the mount 310 except in the direction
indicated by double arrow 311, if desired. A hinge similar to hinge
313 can be used to mount hook 283 and stop 290 in the location
similar to that illustrated in FIG. 19, if desired.
[0169] If the rear cover 250 is configured to tilt upwardly, a hook
or catch 317 can be provided as illustrated in FIG. 8 to hold the
rear cover 250 in the elevated position. Preferably, the leg 300 is
also hinged so that it can be removably secured to the downwardly
facing surface of the rear cover 250 in the elevated position. When
the rear cover 250 is mounted to support 182 a support strut 316
illustrated in FIG. 20 extending between the wall assemblies 23 can
be provided. If the rear cover 250 is mounted to the support rail
182, the catch 317 can be slidably mounted to the strut 316 to
again support the rear cover 250 in the elevated position.
[0170] Referring again to FIG. 20, pairs of mounts 280 can be
provided on other wall segments such as on outer surfaces of the
wall segments such as at 320, other inner surfaces of the wall
segments such as at 322. If desired, the rear cover 250 can also be
attached to the primary platforms 21 if mounts are provided on
outer edges such as at 324. Depending on the location and/or a
desired height of the rear cover, the leg 300 can be adjustable in
length such as comprising telescoping portions.
[0171] Removable Upper Cover
[0172] In a similar manner, an upper cover 319 of the camper 10
(used when the camper 10 is in the completely folded position,
illustrated in FIG. 16 in dashed lines, to cover the outer edges
21B of the primary platforms 21, or work with the outer edges 21B
so as to enclose the space between folded portions of the wall
assemblies 23 from above) can also be used at table or shelf for
example as illustrated in FIG. 20. The upper cover 319 includes
suitable clips, clasps or other fasteners, not shown, to hold the
upper cover 319 in place when the camper 10 is being transported.
When it is desired to set up the camper 10, the upper cover 319 is
removed from its position illustrated in FIG. 16. In one
embodiment, the upper cover 319 an be attached to camper 10 such as
to one of the outer edges 21B as illustrated in FIG. 20 using a
mounting element (schematically illustrated at 323) such as a
suitable clip, clasps or other fastener, the form of which can
vary. If desired, one or more legs 321 can also be used to help
support the upper cover 319 when functioning as a table or shelf.
The legs 321 can be adjustable in length such as being telescoping.
In a manner similar to leg 300 for rear cover 250, the leg(s) 319
can be attached to an inner or lower surface when not in use as
illustrated in dashed lines in FIG. 20, and also can be pivotally
attached to the lower surface such that the leg(s) 321 can be
easily moved from a storage position to a position when the leg(s)
321 are used as supports. It should also be noted that the upper
cover 319 can comprise two or more panels 319A, 319B (each with one
or more legs 321), allowing panels 319A, 319B to be used at
different locations attached to portion(s) of the camper 10, or as
a free standing table with a suitable number of legs 321.
[0173] FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate another form of cover 319' of
the camper 10 (used when the camper 10 is in the completely folded
position, illustrated in FIG. 16 in dashed lines, to cover the
outer edges 21B of the primary platforms 21, or work with the outer
edges 21B so as to enclose the space between folded portions of the
wall assemblies 23 from above). The cover 319' can have side walls
319A' that overlap outwardly facing edge portions 21B of the walls
of the primary platforms 21. Similarly a rear wall 319B' overlaps a
portion of rear cover 250. A front wall 319C' can be provided to
abut a portion of the storage compartment 106 or a seal connected
thereto.
[0174] In this embodiment, the cover 319' is hinged along one
longitudinal edge with a hinge mechanism 329. The hinge mechanism
329 can take any number of forms. In one embodiment, the hinge
mechanism 329 allows the cover 319' to be uncoupled from primary
platform 21 when desired. In the exemplary embodiment, the hinge
mechanism 329 is formed from a flexible fabric 329A coupled on one
longitudinal edge to cover 319' and on the opposite longitudinal
edge to primary platform 21. Each of the longitudinal edges of the
fabric 329A edges can have enlarged edges inserted in the slotted
channels 333A, 333B which can be formed for example from fabric
tubing or awning rope, such as sold by Keder of Shenzhen, China.
This form of fabric connection is discussed in more detail below
with respect to other fabrics connected to various portions of the
camper 10. Fasteners 337 hold the cover 319' down on the
longitudinal side opposite hinge mechanism 329. The fasteners 37
can comprise snaps, hook and loop fasteners, latches, ties, etc.
connected to flexible and/or stretchable straps if desired. In the
embodiment illustrated, elastic connectors 337 are illustrated. If
desired, when the platform 21 is lowered, the cover 319' can remain
attached to the platform 21 so that the cover 319' hangs
substantially vertically. This can be advantageous in forming a
more protected area below the primary platform 21 to shield items
placed under the platform 21 from rain, etc.
[0175] In one embodiment, a major portion 319D' and walls 319A',
319B' and 319C' can be formed integral, for example, from rigid
panels connected to one another in a rigid manner, or stamped or
formed as a single unitary body. In another embodiment, one or more
of the major portion 319D' and walls 319A', 319B' and 319C' can be
connected to each other in a flexible manner, allowing the joined
panels to move slightly with respect to each other. In yet another
embodiment, one or more of the major portion 319D' and walls 319A',
319B' and 319C' can be formed of flexible fabric. If needed
additional fasteners can be provided to connect major portion 319D'
and/or walls 319A', 319B', 319C' to the walls of the primary
platform 21B, storage compartment 106 and/or rear cover 250.
[0176] Support Struts for Wall Assemblies and Storage Thereof
[0177] Referring to FIGS. 8, 20, 20B and 20C depending on the
longitudinal length of the inside of the camper from opposed wall
assemblies 23 versus a vertical height of ends of the struts 316 on
the opposed wall assemblies 23, it may be advantageous that each of
the struts 316 as well as struts 71 be telescoping, herein
represented where each strut 71 comprises telescoping portions 71A
and 71B, and each strut 316 comprises telescoping portions 316 an
316B.
[0178] In a particular advantageous embodiment, struts 71 and/or
struts 316 can be secured in a stationary manner when the camper is
the folded position as illustrated for example in FIG. 16.
Referring first to struts 71 as illustrated in FIG. 20B, a first
end 71C of each strut is fixedly but pivotally secured to wall
segment 72A of front wall assembly 23 so as to allow each strut 71
to hang from the first end 71C downwardly generally parallel to
wall segment 72A when not extended such that end 71D is positioned
closer to stationary platform 28 (FIG. 20C). Preferably, a lower
holding device 325 is provided on wall segment 72A of the front
wall assembly 23 to hold end 71D in a fixed, but removable manner
such that each strut 71 will remain generally parallel to wall
segment 72A as the wall segment 72A is moved from or to the upright
position illustrated in FIG. 8 from a lower position when the wall
assembly 23 lies generally parallel to the stationary platform 28.
The lower holding device 325 can take numerous forms such as but
not limited to a clasp, a strap, a clip, a latch, a socket, a hook
and loop fastener to name just a few. In the embodiment
illustrated, end 71D includes a narrower protrusion 71E extending
out from end 71D. The lower holding device 325 comprises a slightly
compliant plate member 325A having an aperture 325B configured to
receive the protrusion 71E but not the entire end 72D. The plate
member 325A deflects slightly so that the protrusion 71E can be
inserted in the aperture 325B. The plate member 325A then springs
back so as to inhibit the protrusion 71E from exiting the aperture
325B as the wall assembly 23 is raised or lowered.
[0179] If desired, struts 316 can also be stored on wall assembly
23 as it is raised or lowered. In a particular convenient location,
each strut 316 is disposed adjacent to one of the struts 71. One or
more holding members 327 are provided on wall segment 72A to hold
each of struts 316 generally parallel to one of the struts 71. In
the embodiment illustrated, two spaced apart holding members 327
are provided. Like holding devices 325, holding members 327 can
take numerous forms such as but not limited to a clasp, a strap, a
latch, a socket, a hook and loop fastener to name just a few. In
the embodiment illustrated holding members 327 comprise clips
configured to partially surround an outer surface of the strut 316
with sufficient pressure to hold the strut 316 in a fixed position
relative to the holding members 327.
[0180] Removable Portions of Canopy
[0181] In an advantageous embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 21-24,
the canopy 17 comprises an outer fabric layer 17A and an inner
fabric layer 17B, each of which are fixedly connected to the wall
assemblies 23 from when the wall assemblies 23 are in the folded
transport configuration of the camper 10 to the extended
configuration where the wall assemblies 23 are unfolded from the
platforms 21 and are erected. As illustrated in FIG. 21, camper 10
can also include a plurality of fabric support connections 350A and
350B for outer fabric layer 17A and inner fabric layer 17B,
respectively. The fabric support connections 350A and 350B extend
along the edges 352 and 354 of the front and rear wall assemblies
23, respectively, and extend along the edges 21B of the primary
platforms 21. The fabric support connections 350A and 350B are
spaced apart from each other so as to hold fabrics 17A and 17B away
from each other in the extended or unfolded position of the camper
10 so as, if desired, to trap air therebetween and thereby provide
an insulated roof and side walls.
[0182] By way of example with reference to edge 352 in FIGS. 10, 21
and 22, the fabric support connections 350A, 350B each have a
lateral edge support 342 for elongated slotted channels 343A, 343B,
respectively. The fabrics 17A, 17B extend out of the slot of the
slotted channels 343A, 343B. The slotted channels 343A, 343B can be
integrally formed together from a single unitary body such as from
a single extrusion 344. In the embodiment illustrated for the wall
assemblies 23, the extrusion 344 is L-shaped where slotted channel
343A for the outer fabric 17A is disposed along the outer edge of
the wall segments 72 and where the lateral edge supports 342 of
each of the connections 350A and 350B connected together form
support portions 345A and 345B of the extrusion 344. Support
portion 345A covers the outer edge of the wall segments 72 of the
wall assemblies 23, while support portion 345B is disposed on
inwardly facing surfaces of the wall segments 72 of the wall
assemblies 23. In another embodiment, the elongated slotted
channels 343A and 343B are not integral (i.e., formed of a single
unitary body) but rather are separate pieces connected, if desired,
by way of a fastener such as but not limited to an adhesive and/or
a plurality of pins 345 attached to the wall segments 72.
[0183] As illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 22, the fabric support
connections 350A, 350B for primary platform 21 also include slotted
channels 353A, 353B for fabrics 17A, 17B and are substantially
similar to the slotted channels 343A, 343B disposed on edges 342,
344 in that they are spaced apart from each other and have slots,
herein opening upwardly, with portions of the fabrics 17A, 17B
extending therethrough. As with the slotted channels 343A, 343B
disposed on edges 342, 344 the slotted channels 353A, 353B disposed
along edges 21B can be separate parts (as illustrated) secured to
edges 21B of each of the platforms 21 or integrally formed from a
single unitary body.
[0184] At this point it should be noted that the fabrics 17A, 17B
at edges thereof have enlarged ends 362 inserted in the slotted
channels 343A, 343B and 353A, 353B which can be formed for example
from fabric tubing or awning rope, such as sold by Keder of
Shenzhen, China.
[0185] In the illustrated embodiment in FIGS. 1 and 1A, the
extrusion 344 for the front and rear wall assemblies 23 does not
extend continuously along edges thereof, but rather comprises three
sections. A first section 344A of the extrusion 344 starts at one
of the side edges of the wall assembly 23 and extends
longitudinally through the top edge of the wall assembly 23 until
it encounters a first end 56A of the hinge 56. A second extrusion
section 344B of the side extrusion 344 begins at a second end 56B
of the hinge 56 and curves around to a first end 56C of a second
hinge 56. A third section 344C of the side extrusion 344 starts at
a second end 56D of the second hinge 56 and slightly curves at top
edge and extends downwardly alongside vertical edge. In other
words, extrusion 344B is disposed along the upper edge of the
middle wall segment 72A of each of the wall assemblies 23, while
extrusions 344A and 344C are disposed along the edges of the side
wall segments 72B, 72C of each of the wall assemblies 23. Each of
the fabric connections 350A, 350B of ends adjacent extrusions 344A,
344B, 344C are aligned with each other such that the enlarged ends
362 of fabrics 17A, 17B can extend from one extrusion to another
extrusion.
[0186] Flaps or covers 364 are provided so as to cover the hinges
56 where the fabric connections 350A, 350B on the wall segments
72A-72C are separated from each other (because of the hinges 56
between the wall segments 72A-72C). The covers or flaps 364 help
seal any open gaps that may exist between the ends of the fabric
connections 350A, 350B (herein formed as extrusions 344A-344C).
Portions of the covers or flaps 364 can be secured to the fabric
17A and/or hinge 56 such as by bonding or sewing. If desired one
end of the covers or flaps 364 can be loose and after configuration
of the trailer in the extended position, then the loose portion can
be secured to the fabric 17A or wall segment 72 by fasteners such
as hook and loop fasteners 361. Covers 364 can be separate elements
or formed integrally as a single unitary body from fabric 17A or
the material forming hinge 56.
[0187] In one embodiment, the material of the inner fabric 17B may
be different than the material of the outer fabric 17A. For
example, the inner fabric 17B may be lightweight and allow moisture
to transfer through it. In another configuration as mentioned
above, both the inner fabric 17B and the outer fabric 17A can trap
air inside for insulation, yet still allow for moisture to travel
through.
[0188] In a further embodiment, the inner fabric 17B can comprise
separable portions such as illustrated in FIG. 22 and FIG. 23
(where fabric 17A has been removed). Generally, separable portions
allow the inner fabric 17B to be removed such as when two fabrics
canopies are not needed, but also allow different fabrics of
different materials and/or fabric weights to be used depending on
for example the season of use. In a particularly advantageous
embodiment, the inner fabric 17B comprises a first portion(s) 17B'
that remains secured to fabric connection 350B such as being
mounted in slotted channels 343B and 353B using enlarged fabric
ends 362. Second portion(s) 17B'' are removably secured to portion
17B' with a fastening device 370. In the embodiment illustrated
fastening device 370 comprises a zipper; however, other fastening
devices include snaps, buttons, hook and loop fasteners, etc. The
inner fabric 17B from edge 21B of one primary platform 21 to the
edge 21B of the other primary platform is an inverted U-shape or
arch since it is also secured to edges 352 and 354 of the front and
rear wall assemblies 23. The fastening device 370 can comprise a
single device such as a single zipper, or a plurality of fastening
device portions such as a separate portion (e.g. zipper) for each
of the edges 21B and/or edges 352, 354. FIG. 23 illustrates a
portion of fastening device 370 as it extends along the platform 21
and then transitions to wall segment 72B. If desired, outer fabric
17A could also comprise separable portions similar to inner fabric
17B so as to allow different materials and/or fabric weights to be
used when desired, or when maintenance or replacement is
required.
[0189] Canopy Fabric Separators
[0190] As mentioned above, it can be desirable to maintain
separation of the outer fabric 17A and the inner fabric 17B so as
for example to provide an insulated canopy 17. Referring to FIGS. 1
and 22, if desired, one or more spaced apart separators 371 can be
disposed between the outer fabric 17A and inner fabric 17B to help
maintain separation. Referring to FIG. 22, the separators 371 are
elongated and if desired can extend along the length of the canopy
17 (as one single continuous length or as spaced apart portions)
from the outer edge 21B of one primary platform 21 to the outer
edge 21B of the other primary platform 21 as schematically
illustrated in FIG. 1. The separators 371 can take numerous forms
but preferably is rigid enough to maintain separation of the outer
fabric 17A and the inner fabric 17B when the canopy 17 is extended
between the wall assemblies 23. In a further embodiment, if
desired, each separator 371 is flexible or compressible enough such
that it can remain between the outer fabric 17A and inner fabric
17B, when the camper 10 is folded up in a transport position. Each
separator 371 can comprise a compressible foam, loose material,
inflatable bladder, or the like or combinations thereof. Each
separator 371 can be permanently secured to the outer fabric 17A
and/or the inner fabric 17B such by an adhesive, bonding, etc. The
separator 371 can also be removably secured to the outer fabric 17A
and/or the inner fabric 17B such as by clips, clasps, loops or
other fastening devices including hook and loop fasteners.
[0191] If the inner fabric 17B is removable or includes a removable
portion 17B'', the separator(s) 371 can be removed from between the
inner fabric 17B and the outer fabric 17A when the inner fabric 17B
or the fabric portion 17B'' is removed. FIG. 22A illustrates the
separator 371 comprising a support sleeve 373 joined to at least
one of the inner fabric 17B or the outer fabric 17A with an inner
filler 375 being an elongated foam rod or tube. If desired, the
support sleeve 373 can include a fastening device(s) such as snaps,
clips, ties, hook and loop tape, zipper or the like that allows the
inner filler 375 to be removed from the support sleeve 373, while
the support sleeve 373 remains attached to the fabric and/or to
disconnect the support sleeve 373 (and the inner filler 375 to be
removed as a unit) from the fabric(s) 17A and/or 17B.
[0192] It should also be noted separator(s) 371 can also be present
in the hinges 56 as illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0193] Canopy Attachment
[0194] FIG. 24 illustrates attachment 380 that can be used to
provide an enclosed outdoor space. Generally, the canopy attachment
380 includes a fabric 382 that is secured to at least a portion of
the wall assembly 23. In the illustrated embodiment, the fabric 382
is secured proximate edge 355 so as to form an enclosed space at a
rear end of the camper 10; however, this should not be considered
limiting. Likewise, although illustrated as being secured proximate
to the entirety of edge 355, this should not be considered limiting
in that if desired a smaller space could be formed by securing the
canopy to only a portion of edge 355.
[0195] At a position(s) remote from the connection of the fabric
382 to the camper 10, a frame support 385 is provided so as to
support the fabric 382 above a ground surface remote from the
camper 10. The frame support 385 can take any number of forms
depending upon the desired shape of the enclosed space. In the
embodiment illustrated, vertical supports 387 extend upwardly and
are connected together by a center section 388 herein generally in
the shape of edge 355. If desired, side supports 387A and/or upper
supports 387B can connect to and extend between the vertical
supports 387 and the rear wall assembly. Although this specific
shape is not required. Frame support 385 can be held in an upright
position by guide lines 388, the number of which can vary depending
upon the shape of the frame support 385 and/or the canopy
attachment 380. In the embodiment illustrated, the canopy
attachment 380 includes a passageway 397 herein formed by a loose
flap of material, which can be provided with a fastening device
such as a zipper or snaps as desired. The fabric 382 can be formed
of a single material combinations of material. Typically, the
fabric 382 is lightweight where portions may be waterproof so as to
provide a cover, while other portions may comprise a screen
material so as to allow airflow.
[0196] Attachments of the fabric material 382 to the camper 10 can
be accomplished in a manner similar to that of inner or outer
layers 17A/17B. For example, a slotted channel 389 similar to
slotted channel 343 can extend along edge 354 on panels 72B and
72C, while an additional slotted channel 391 can be provided at the
top of panel 72A. The fabric 382 can include an enlarged end
similar to enlarged end 262 of inner and outer layers 17A and 17B
so as to allow the fabric material 382 to extend out through the
slots of the slotted channels 389, 391. In a manner similar to that
described with respect to inner layer 17B in FIG. 23, the fabric
382 can comprise a first portion that remains secured to the
slotted channels 389, 391 provided at edge 354 wherein a fastening
device such as a zipper similar to that described above can be
provided allowing a majority of the fabric material 382 to be
selectively secured to the portion that remains secured to the wall
assembly 23.
[0197] In another embodiment, which eliminates the need for
additional slotted channels on the wall assembly 23, a fastening
device such as a zipper can be used to secure or fasten the fabric
material 382 to the canopy 17. FIG. 25 illustrates an end 382A of
fabric 382 fastened to outer layer 17A of the canopy 17 with a
fastening device comprising a zipper 384. A first portion of the
zipper 384 is secured to a band of material 386 that is secured
such as by bonding, sewing or an adhesive to the outer layer 17A.
The band 386 is also illustrated in FIG. 24. The second portion of
the zipper 384 is secured to end 382A.
[0198] Referring back to FIG. 24, in another embodiment, fabric
382' extends in a different orientation from canopy 17. Fabric 382'
can be fixed secured to canopy 17 to extend outwardly therefrom. In
this embodiment, vertical supports 385A are joined to remote
corners of fabric 382', holding them upright so as to form a
sunshade. However, it should be noted if desired an enclosure
similar to attachment 380 could be oriented in the manner of fabric
382'. Likewise, a simple sunshade can be made to extend rearwardly
rather than attachment 380.
[0199] The fabric 382' can be permanently joined to canopy 17 and
fastening devices such as straps 382A' provided so as roll or
foldup fabric 382' when an extending sunshade is not desired. If
desired, fabric 382' can be removably attached to canopy 17 using
the end 382A permanently joined to the canopy 17 and the zipper 384
in a manner similar to that discussed above with respect to fabric
382.
[0200] In addition to the fabric 382, additional panel(s) may be
needed to fully enclose the desired space. Referring back to FIG.
24, a panel 388 is secured to the wall segments of the wall
assemblies 23 or to the primary platforms 21 and stationary
platform 28 so as to extend from these portions down to the ground
surface. In addition or in the alternative, side panels 390 are
secured to outer edges 21B of the primary platforms 21 while end
panel(s) 392 is provided at the front of the camper 10. In view of
the storage compartment 106 provided in this embodiment, the end
panel(s) 392 may have to extend around the perimeter of the storage
compartment 106 in addition to extending to each of the primary
platforms 21. The panels 388, 390, 392 can be secured to portions
of the camper using any suitable fastener such as snaps, slotted
channels as described above and/or fastening devices such as zipper
384 secured to a strip of material 394 illustrated in FIG. 24.
[0201] If desired, adjacent panels 388, 390 and/or 392 may be
secured together or form from a single sheet of material. For
instance, half of panel 388 and half of panel 392 may be secured to
panel 390, while the remaining half of panels 388 and 392 are
secured to panel 390 on the opposite side of the camper 10. In this
manner, half of panel 388, half of panel 392 and panel 390 can be
folded upon each other and folded up into the camper when the wall
assemblies 23 are laid flat. In this manner, individual attachment
of all the panels after assembly of the camper to the extended
position is not necessary. Rather, if panel 388 is secured to the
primary platform 21 or the outer layer 17A, then the user can
simply unfold each of the half panels 388, 392 and secure them to
opposite ends of the camper as illustrated. Such securing devices
can include clips, hook and loop fasteners, etc.
[0202] At this point, it should be noted that use of panels 388,
390 and 392 may be advantageous even if the enclosed space formed
by canopy attachment 380 is not used. Use of these panels is
particularly helpful in the winter to avoid air movement below the
stationary platform 28 and primary platforms 21. The panels 388,
390 and 392 inhibit airflow so as to insulate the bottom of the
camper 10. The loose edges of the panels 388, 390 and 392 can be
staked or weighted down as desired or necessary.
[0203] Other embodiments for providing an overhang or an enclosed
outdoor space, preferably, as a vestibule at the rear of the
trailer about the door 82 is illustrated in FIGS. 24A-24G. FIGS.
24A-24D illustrate an overhang 300A. The overhang 300A is
particularly advantageous because it is support be a frame 302A
that in turn is supported by the rear wall assembly of the camper.
Hence in this embodiment there are no additional poles, wires or
the like that are connected to the overhang and rest upon or are
secured to the ground. A perimeter edge 304A of the overhang 300A
can be secured to the rear wall assembly using the techniques
discussed above. The frame 302A comprises a plurality of U-shaped
supports extending the width of the rear wall assembly. A first
U-shaped 306A is joined at each end 308A to the rear wall assembly
and extends outwardly and upwardly to define an outermost edge 310A
of the overhang 300A. A second U-shaped support 312A is connected
at ends 314A to support 306A and extends upwardly to a height
approximately the same as the height of the canvas 17, or the
height of the rear perimeter edge 304A. (It should be noted that
the connection of the support 312A to support 306A can be a pivotal
connection, which is not disconnectable). Additional side supports
316A are connected to the rear wall assembly 23 at 323A and at
least one of the U-shaped supports 306A or 312A, herein illustrated
a being connected to support 312A.
[0204] In one embodiment, each of the supports 306A, 312A and 316A
are removably connected to the rear wall assembly and/or to
material forming the overhang 300A. In one particularly
advantageous embodiment, the U-shaped supports 306A and 312A are
assembled from at least a couple of pieces that can be removably
connected together. For instance, each of the U-shaped supports
306A can include two J-shaped portions and a center section that
removably connects to each J-shaped extension. The side supports
316A can be pivotally connected to the U-shaped support 306A at end
320A so that when disconnected from the wall assembly, the side
support 316A can lie generally flat and against the portion of the
support 306A this it is pivotally connected to.
[0205] Referring to FIG. 24D, portions of each of the U-shaped
supports 306A and 312A can be located in sleeves 322A and 324A,
respectively on an underside of the overhang 300A. The sleeves
322A, 324A can include a fastener such as a zipper or a plurality
of snaps or the like such that the sleeves can be opened, for
instance along their longitudinal length, to allow portions of the
U-shaped supports 306A and 312A to be placed therein. When the
sleeves 322A, 324A are closed, the sleeves 322A, 324A capture the
U-shaped supports 306A, 312A and thereby provide a strong
connection between the material of the overhang and the frame 302A.
The connection of the frame 302A to the rear wall assembly realizes
an overhang structure able to withstand considerable wind loads or
weight placed thereon such as by snow. However, with the frame 302A
being able to be broken down into individual parts and the material
removable from the frame 302A, the material and frame components
are configured so that they can be placed within the interior space
defined by the wall assemblies 23, when the wall assemblies 23 are
in a folded condition such as illustrated in FIG. 16B, while still
allowing the rear panel 250 to also be secured.
[0206] It should be noted the design of the overhang 300A and frame
302A allows it to be secured to the rear wall assembly 23 when the
rear wall assembly 23 still lies flat, i.e. before it is lifted to
extend the canvas shell 17 between the front and rear wall
assemblies 23. Stated another way, the camper 10 is configured from
the travel configuration to its extended position to function as a
camper by first lowering each of the primary platforms 21, which
yields the front wall assembly 23 lying upon the rear wall assembly
23. The front wall assembly 23 is then lifted to its upright
position and connects to the storage compartment 106 at the front
of the camper 10. At this point, the rear wall assembly 23 is still
flat lying upon floor panels of the camper, i.e. the stationary
platform 28 and the primary platforms 21.
[0207] The rear perimeter edge 302A can then be joined to the rear
wall assembly 23. However it should also be noted that in a further
embodiment, this connection could already have been made the
material of the overhang 300A can be folded up with the wall
assemblies 23 when the wall assemblies 23 are placed in the folded
travel configuration.
[0208] The components of the frame 302A can then be connected to
form the U-shaped supports 306A, 312A. The supports 306A, 312A and
316A are connected to the wall assembly 23 and supports 306A and
312A are located in sleeves 322A and 324A, however, the exact order
of connections may vary. Once the connections have been made, the
overhang 302A extends upwardly, while the rear wall assembly 23
lies horizontally flat. The overhang 302A, and in particular
portions of the frame 302A can then function as an aid to help lift
the rear wall assembly 23 to an upright position, which at that
time also extends the canvas 17 between the front and rear wall
assemblies 23.
[0209] In one embodiment, the support 306A and/or side supports
316A can include couplings 327A that allow the length of the
support 306A, 316A to retract and extend over a limited distance.
Since the overhang 300A is generally taut when assembled connection
of the the supports 306A, 316A to the rear wall assembly 23 may be
difficult because the material of the overhang 300A is at that time
stretched. With the supports 306A and/or 316A being able to placed
in a condition where they are a little shorter connection of the
supports 306A and/or 316A to the rear wall assembly 23 can then be
made. After connection has been made, the couplings 327A are
manipulated to lengthen the support 306A and/or 316A, which cause
the overhang 302A to stretch and assume a taut configuration.
[0210] FIGS. 24E-24G illustrate side walls or panels 329A and a
front wall or panel 331A that can be joined to the overhang 300A
such that the overhang 300A and the frame 302A supports the panels
329A and 331A in an upright position without the need of any
additional frame supports, although such could be provided in a
further embodiment. The panels 329A and 331A are joined to the
overhang with suitable fasteners such as zippers that extend along
the edges that are joined together. In a further embodiment, the
panels 329A, 331A can be made of material that is solid,
transparent, translucent or is a screen. In this manner, different
panels made of different materials can be used when desired. For
instance the panels may comprise screen material, which might be
nice in hot environments, while other panels may comprise solid
material that forms a wind or rain shield, and which can also be
insulated for use during the winter or cold environments.
[0211] Hard Side Walls
[0212] FIGS. 26-33 illustrate multiple embodiments where rigid or
hard side walls are provided extending between the wall assemblies
23. Referring first to the embodiment of FIG. 26 side walls 400 are
hinged to each of the primary platforms 21 along the outer edge 21B
from a first position where each side wall 400 is substantially
flat with the primary platform 21 to an unfolded, upright position
wherein each side wall 400 extends between the wall assemblies 23
when the wall assemblies 23 are each in the unfolded, upright
position. FIG. 26 illustrates side wall 400 in each of these
positions. It should be noted that the side walls 400 can be used
to help support the wall assemblies 23 in the upright positions. In
addition, the side walls 400 can be used along with the hinge
collapsible support rail 180 and/or the rest of the frame members
described above to function as a cot, bench or table. Typically,
the support rail 180 would be hingeably mounted to the primary
platform 21 such that it is inward of the side walls 400, or stated
another way, the side walls 400 are the outer most elements
hingeably joined to the primary platform 21. As appreciated by
those skilled in the art, the location of the hinged connection of
the side wall 400 to the primary platform 21 would be such that the
side wall 400 can lay upon the support rail 180 and other frame
members connected thereto in the folded position where the side
wall 400 is substantially flat or planar with the primary platform
21.
[0213] In a further embodiment, the side wall 400 can include an
optional portion 402 that is moveable with respect to the side wall
400. In a first embodiment, the portion 402 is joined to an upper
edge 404 of the side wall 400 with hinge(s), not shown, such that
the portion 402 can rotate relative to edge 404 of the side wall
400. An intermediate position of the portion 402 is illustrated
with dashed lines in FIG. 26. The portion 402 can be folded upon
the side wall 400 and will also lay substantially flat on the
primary platform 21. In FIG. 26 a longitudinal edge 406 of the
portion 402 is identified in its uppermost position with a solid
lines and with dashed lines in the intermediate position and when
laid flat upon the primary platform 21.
[0214] A second embodiment illustrating movement of a portion 410
is also illustrated in FIG. 26. In this embodiment, the portion 410
is slidably mounted to the side wall 400 wherein in a first
embodiment, edges 412 of the portion 410 are slid relative to the
side wall 400 and the wall assembly 23 with guides 414, illustrated
schematically. The guides 414 can include separate guide elements
mounted to the side wall 400 as well as to the wall assemblies 23
to allow sliding movement of the portion 410. In other words,
complementary guide members can be mounted on the edges 412 and on
the wall assemblies 23 so as to cooperate with each other when the
portion 410 is slid upwardly and downwardly with respect to the
wall assemblies 23. In another embodiment, edges 412 directly
engage the guides 414. If desired, other guides 416 can be provided
between the side wall 400 and the portion 410 so as to cooperate
with each other and allow sliding movement of the portion 410
relative to the side wall 400.
[0215] Referring also to FIG. 27, in a first embodiment, the canopy
17 can be removably joined to an upper edge of the side wall 400,
or portion 402 or portion 410 is provided. Referring to the portion
410 by way of example, outer fabric 17A and/or inner fabric 17B can
be removably secured to or proximate to upper edge 406. As
described above with respect to securing the fabric 17A and 17B to
the primary platform 21 various forms of fasteners can be used
including snaps, hook and loop fasteners and/or zippers to name a
few. In a manner similar to that described above, if desired,
slotted channels 423 and 425 can be fixed to edge 406. The slotted
channels 423 and 425 can removably receive and secure outer fabric
17A and/or inner fabric 17B. In a preferred embodiment, the outer
fabric 17A and/or the inner fabric 17B comprises a first portion
17A', 17B' and a second portion 17A'' and 17B'' wherein the
fastener, herein zippers 427 and 429, respectively, join the
respective portions of the fabrics 17A and 17B together. If
desired, outer fabric 17A can also include a hinged flap or portion
17A''' that includes a hook and loop fastener 430A and 430B that
provides a cover over the zipper or fastener 427 so as to provide a
waterproof outer layer. Separator(s) 371 as described above can
also be provided as illustrated in FIGS. 26 and 27 and FIG. 30 by
way of example.
[0216] In an alternative embodiment illustrated in FIG. 28, the
side walls 400, with or without optional portion 402 or 410
moveably secured thereto, does not form the outermost panel of the
camper but rather, is hingeably joined to the primary platform 21
such that the canopy 17 remains as the outermost covering of the
camper 10 along the side walls. This embodiment is advantageous in
that waterproof seals between the edges of the side walls 400 and
optional portions 402, 410 are not needed with respect to the wall
assemblies 23 because the waterproof seal is provided by the
outermost fabric 17A. FIG. 29 illustrates side wall 400 mounted to
the interior of the canopy 17 with a hinge 430 allowing the side
wall 400 to lay flat with respect to the primary platform 21.
[0217] FIG. 30 illustrates another side wall 450 that can extend
between wall assemblies 23 on each side of the camper 10. In this
embodiment, side walls 450 are hinged to the wall assemblies 23
rather than to the primary platform 21. Each side wall 450 would
typically include multiple portions that are hinged together. In
the embodiment illustrated, four portions 452A, 452B, 452C and 452D
are illustrated although this should not be considered limiting in
that the number of portions typically comprise two or more portions
for each side wall 450 wherein the number of portions may depend
upon the length of the primary platform 21. In this embodiment,
portions 452A are hinged to an outer edge of the wall assemblies 23
on each side of the camper. The portion 452A can be moved from a
first position wherein it lays flat against the wall assemblies 23
as illustrated with dashed lines to a second position illustrated
with solid lines wherein a lower portions of 452A aligns with the
edge 21B of the primary platform 21. Since the portions 452A hinges
between the first and second positions, the second position
extending along the primary platform 21, and since the wall
assemblies 23 hinge with respect to the stationary platform 28 and
the primary platforms 21, the portion 452A can also be used to hold
the wall assembly 23 in an upright position. A catch 455 is
schematically illustrated. Catch 455 selectively holds portions
452A in a fixed position on the primary platform 21 such that the
wall assembly 23 to which it is attached is held in an upright
position.
[0218] In this embodiment, portion 452B is also connected with a
hinge to rotate with respect to portion 452A. In a first position,
portion 452B is illustrated with dashed lines and lays
substantially parallel to portion 452A in a folded position against
the wall assembly 23. Once the portion 452A has been moved into
position, portion 452B can then also be rotated so as to align with
primary platform 21 generally along edge 21B. In this embodiment,
portions 452A and 452B form one half of the wall assembly 450.
Portions 452D operate in a manner similar to portions 452A, while
portions 452C operate in a manner similar to portions 452B. Thus,
in this embodiment, one half of each wall assembly 450 will lay
substantially flat against the rear wall assembly 23 in a folded
position while the other half of side wall 450 is folded upon the
other opposing or front wall assembly 23. The canopy 17 can be
removeably secured to an upper edge 458 of the side wall 450, where
the upper edge 458 comprises upper edges of each of the wall
portions 452A-452D. Slotted channels, zippers, snaps, hook and loop
fasteners can be used to secure the outer fabric 17A and optional
inner fabric 17B in a manner similar to that illustrated in FIG. 27
if desired. As appreciated by those skilled in the art, separate
fastening portions may be needed for each of the portions
452A-452D. In yet another embodiment, the side wall 450 can be
mounted inwardly of the canopy 17 in a manner similar to that
illustrated in FIG. 28 such that the canopy 17 again forms the
outermost element of the camper 10.
[0219] In FIG. 31, portions 452B and 452C slide relative to
portions 452A and 452D, respectively on guides 451 schematically
illustrated. If desired, some overlap may exist between portions
452A, 452B and 452C,452D when the side wall 450 is fully extended
between the wall assemblies 23.
[0220] In yet another embodiment illustrated in FIG. 32, side walls
460 are removeably secured to edges or outer edges of the wall
assembly 23. In this embodiment, side walls 460 are joined to
primary platform 21 along the outer edge 21B with hinges, not
shown, such that the side walls 460 hinge outwardly with respect to
the wall assembly 23, as illustrated. In one embodiment, the side
walls 460 are the last walls put in place when the camper 10 is in
its extended position or set up. As such, each of the wall
assemblies 23 are moved to the upright position and may be held in
this position by the support rail 182 or other members extending
between the wall assemblies 23. The side walls 460 are then rotated
inwardly so as to engage the outer edges of the wall assemblies
23.
[0221] In this embodiment, the side walls 460 lay upon or over the
wall assemblies 23 when the wall assemblies 23 are laid upon the
primary platforms 21 and the stationary platform 28. In order to
allow the side wall 460 to assume this position, an edge of the
side wall 460 attached to the primary platform 21 can be elevated
by flange 463 as illustrated also in FIG. 33 a distance so as to
accommodate both of the wall assemblies 23 when laid flat. FIG. 33
also illustrates that the side wall 460 can engage a notch 480
formed in the wall assemblies 23 so that an upper edge 462 of the
side wall 460 is located inwardly from the outer edge of the wall
assemblies 23. In a manner similar to that above and illustrated
with respect to FIG. 27, the canopy 17 can be removeably secured to
upper edge 462 of the side wall 460.
[0222] FIGS. 34-36 illustrate another embodiment a side wall is
hinged to edge 21B of platform 21. For purposes of understanding
wall 460 in FIG. 32 illustrates how the side wall is attached to
wall assemblies 23 that being after the wall assemblies 23 have
been erected to their unfolded positions. However, unlike wall 460
that lies lay upon or over the wall assemblies 23 when the wall
assemblies 23 are laid upon the primary platforms 21 and the
stationary platform 28, each wall 470 is connected to edge 21B with
a 270 degree hinge 472 as illustrated in FIG. 35. FIG. 35 is an
enlarged portion of the right hand platform 21 and wall 470
illustrated in FIG. 34 in a transport or storage position. FIG. 36
schematically illustrates the relationship between platform 21 and
wall 470 when the wall 470 is erected in a manner similar to wall
460 in FIG. 32. Suitable fasteners such as clips, clasps, hooks and
the like can secure wall 470 in position against side edges of the
wall assemblies 23 when the wall 470 is secured. Referring back to
FIG. 34, wall 470 can comprise a single panel as shown on the right
hand side of the camper 10, or if desired, can comprise multiple
panels 470A, 470B pivotally connected together with a hinge 474. In
the storage or transport position the panel 470A lies upon panel
470B. In FIG. 32 panels 470A and 470B have also been
illustrated.
[0223] The canopy 17 can be secured to an upper edge of the side
wall 470 in a manner similar to that discussed above with respect
to portion 410 illustrated in FIG. 27 or as described with respect
to wall 450 in FIG. 30. However, it yet another embodiment, canopy
17 can remain attached to platform 21 along the side wall 470 as
illustrated in FIG. 36 where wall 470 is to the exterior of canopy
17 (herein by way of example including layers 17A and 17B). In this
manner, the seal between wall 470 and side edges of the wall
assemblies need not be perfect since the inside of the camper 10 is
sealed by layers 17A and/or 17B. However, it should be noted it may
be desirable to include panel 17A''' as illustrated in FIG. 27 so
that water and/or debris does not fall down between layer 17A and
wall 470, but rather is shed to the outside surface of wall
470.
[0224] Ground Supports Configured to Move Trailer when Unfolded
[0225] FIG. 32 also illustrates another aspect of the invention
that being ground supports 500 allowing movement of the camper 10
when the trailer is in the unfolded configuration. In FIG. 32 two
ground supports allowing such movement of the camper 10 are
illustrated, where the other side comprises similar ground
supports, not shown. In one embodiment, each ground support 500
includes a vertical support 502 and a ski 504 connected thereto.
The ground supports 500 are disposed preferably at each remote
corner of each primary platform 21 being directly secured thereto,
or in an alternative embodiment using the lateral supports 64 in
the manner described above. If desired, a single ski 504A,
illustrated with dashed lines, can be connected to each of the
vertical supports 502 to extend along the length of the primary
platform 21. If further desired, the skis 504 or 504A can be
coupled to the ground supports 58, for example, in a selectively
operable manner, such as where the ski 504, 504A can be removed if
desired. Whether a single ski 504A or multiple skis 504 on each
side of the camper 10, the skis 504A or 504 can have upturned
portions on each end allowing the camper 10 to be moved either
forwardly or backwardly with ease.
[0226] The ground supports 500 are advantageous when it is desired
to move the camper 10 when set up rather than, at least partially,
folding the camper 10 up. For example, when the camper 10 is used
during ice fishing and user desires to move to a different location
on the lake. Allowing the camper 10 to be moved with the primary
platforms 21 unfolded can save a considerable amount of time, where
the ground supports 500 can inhibit the camper 10 from tipping
over. In another embodiment, each ground support 500 can be
connected, for example in a removable manner, to a wheel assembly
506, one of which is illustrated. Hence, movement of the camper 10
in the unfolded configuration is not limited to use only with skis
504, 504A and/or only upon snow. In one embodiment, the wheel 506
and the skis 504 include a receiver 508 configured to receive an
end of the vertical support 502, although other forms of fastening
mechanisms can be used.
[0227] Inner Access Panel on Movable Floor Platform
[0228] Referring back to FIGS. 2, 4, 20 and 37, one, or in the
embodiment illustrated, each primary platform 21 includes a storage
cavity or bin 530 with a openable cover panel 532, herein hinged
with hinges 534, but could be completely removable, if desired.
Latches 536 secure the cover panel 532 when desired. The primary
platforms 21 provide a floor for users when unfolded and the wall
assemblies 23 have been erected. A back wall 540 (FIG. 37) of the
cavity 530 functions as a portion of the floor of each primary
platform 21. If desired, one or more removable portions 542 of the
panel member forming the floor/back wall 540 can be provided as
illustrated in FIG. 20. In a preferred embodiment, the removable
portions 542 are removed from the inside of the trailer after the
primary platforms 21 have been unfolded and the end wall assemblies
23 have been erected to form the enclosed, inside space of the
camper 10. Removal of one or more of the portion(s) 542 provides
access to each respective storage bin 530 from the inside of the
trailer. Note the shape of the covers need not be circular as
shown.
[0229] Removing one or more of the removable portions 542 can
create an opening 544 to outdoor space below the primary platform
21 from within the camper 10 (if the cover 532 is open or removed).
In one embodiment one or more of the openings 544 are of size to
allow fishing from within the camper 10 when the camper 10 is
deployed on ice of a body of water. The opening(s) 544 can take any
convenient shape such as a polygon, circle or oval.
[0230] In view that each primary platform 21 when unfolded is
elevated, it may be desirable to provide a shielded passageway 550
from or proximate the opening 544 or fishing hole in the ice to or
at least proximate each opening 544 in the opening of the back wall
540 of the bin or floor of the camper 10. The passageway(s) 550 can
take any convenient shape such as a polygon, circle or oval. In one
embodiment, each passageway 550 is provided for a single ice hole
and opening 544, but if desired the passageway 550 can be sized to
accommodate more than one, for example, two or three. The
passageway 550 can be formed of one or more materials such as but
not limited to metal, plastic, fabric. The passageway 550 can
include insulating material or constructed, for example, to create
one or more open and/or closed air cavities. In another embodiment,
the passageway 550 can be made of a material such as fabric that
telescopes due to an inner coil wire, where a longitudinal length
of the coil can vary.
[0231] If desired, passageway 550 can include an annular or partly
annular end lip or flange 558 on an end that can limit insertion of
the passageway 550 through the opening 544. If desired, passageway
550 can be formed from a planar sheet of rigid, but compliant
material such as plastic. The planar sheet can be of size such that
longitudinal edges abut or overlap. Holding devices such as
latches, clips, straps or the like can be provided if desired
although the opening 544 may be sufficient to retain at least one
end of the passageway 550, while at an opposite end, the passageway
550 can be provided with an end that allows the passageway 550 to
be inserted in ice shavings proximate the ice hole, the ice
shavings retaining the edges in position so as to retain the
tubular shape of the passageway 550. If formed of sheet of
material, the passageway 550 uncoils to return to a planar or
generally planar shape for storage.
[0232] It should be noted location of holes in the camper 10 for
purposes of ice fishing is not limited to holes through the primary
platforms 21. FIG. 37 is a view of a portion of the camper 10 from
below. In another embodiment, one or more openings can be located
in the center of the trailer such as illustrated at 562 and 566.
Each of these holes correspond to holes through lower storage
compartments provided below the stationary panel 28 and accessible
from within the camper through covers such as indicated at 568 and
570, respectively in FIG. 20. Like openings 544 suitable removable
covers can be provided like covers 542 for openings 562 and/or
566.
[0233] Lower Body Protection Assembly
[0234] Referring back to FIGS. 4A, 7B and 37, a lower body portion
106D of the camper 10 that is below the stationary platform 28 and
the storage area 106 is used for storage as desired by the user.
However the panels 106F, 106G and 106H forming the lower body
portion 106D are susceptible to damage from rocks and other debris
that may be present particularly when the camper 10 is being pulled
on an offroad trail. To provide some protection for the panels of
the lower body portion 106A, a lower body protection assembly 600
can be mounted over the panels 106F, 106G and 106H of the lower
body portion 106A, and in one embodiment spaced slightly apart from
the panels 106F, 106G and 106H. Generally, the lower body
protection assembly 600 can comprise a plurality of support members
602 along the sides panel and lower panel of the lower body portion
106D. Referring to FIG. 4A, an upper end of preferably each support
602 is mounted to the frame member supporting the stationary
platform 28 since this is a rigid structure as compared to the
panels of the lower body portion 106D. Suitable fasteners include
threaded bolts that extend through apertures in each support member
602 and are received in threaded apertures secured to the frame
member supporting the stationary platform 28. This should not be
considered limiting in that other types of fasteners can be used.
Each support member 602 extends downward alongside the side panels
106F or 106G of the lower body portion 106D and also alongside the
lower panel 106H. Stated another way the support members 602
together form a protection cage for the lower body portion 106. The
spacing between the support members 602 is selected depending on
the type of debris, rocks or obstacles that protection is desired
for. In one embodiment, one or more skid panels 604 (a portion of
which is illustrated in FIG. 4A) can also be provided to provide
yet more protection. The skid panel(s) 106K can be mounted in a
replaceable so as to be replaced when damage is incurred. Likewise,
if desired, the support members 602 can secured together in a
replaceable manner to be replaced if desired.
[0235] Although the subject matter has been described in language
specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is
to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended
claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts
described above as has been determined by the courts. Rather, the
specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example
forms of implementing the claims.
* * * * *