Foldable Travel Bed Assembly For A Vehicle

Abstract

A foldable travel bed assembly for a vehicle provides a foldable platform that removably fits into a rear end of a vehicle to support a sleeper and create storage space. The platform has a forward section and a rearward section that hingedly connect at a horizontal fold line. The forward section folds back onto the rearward section to enable use of a middle seat in vehicle. A set of slidable support struts extends across the horizontal fold line between the forward section and rearward section. At least one handle controls the slidable support struts to be manually extended across the fold to lock the platform into operation. The platform also has a top side and a bottom side. The assembly also provides a set of height adjustable legs supporting the platform. The set of height adjustable legs hingedly collapse to lay parallel with the bottom side of the platform.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND PRIORITY

[0001] The present application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/133,082 filed on Dec. 31, 2021 entitled "FOLDABLE TRAVEL BED ASSEMBLY FOR A VEHICLE"

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates generally to a foldable travel bed assembly for a vehicle. More particularly, the foldable travel bed assembly with a foldable platform that removably mounts into a rear end of the vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Nowadays, a lot of people use their vehicle not just for travelling but also to take while travelling long distances by their personal vehicle. However, the seating arrangement provided in the vehicles is not appropriate for sleeping. As a result, a lot of traveler's face health issues. There are attempts made in the past to enable a platform by folding seats of the vehicle. However, the foldable seats do not provide any storage space in the vehicle. Also, conventional arrangement requires plenty of time for assembling and disassembling. Further, switching from sleeping environment to a seating environment is difficult in the conventional sleeping accommodation.

[0004] As can be seen, there is a need for an improved foldable travel bed assembly, as disclosed herein.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present disclosure is related to a foldable travel bed assembly for a vehicle. The assembly comprises a platform, a detachable cushion, a set of slidable support struts, at least one handle, and a set of height adjustable legs. The platform is disposed at a rear end of the vehicle. The platform is defined by a forward section and a rearward section configured to joined together. The forward section and the rearward section form a nexus at a fold line. Further, the forward section folds back onto the rearward section. The platform is further defined by a top side and an opposing bottom side. The detachable cushion overlaps the top side of the platform. Further, the set of slidable support struts extend along the bottom side of the platform, and across the fold line between the forward section and the rearward of the platform. The at least one handle is joined to the set of slidable support struts. The at least one handle is operable to enable the set of slidable support strut to be slidably displaced across the fold line. The forward section is restricted from folding back onto the rearward section of the platform. The at least one handle configured to enable the set of slidable support struts to be slidably displaced away from the fold line. The forward section is allowed to fold back onto the rearward section of the platform. The set of height adjustable legs are hinged with the bottom side of the platform. The set of height adjustable legs are height adjustable, so as to elevate the platform over a floor of the vehicle, thereby enabling a storage space below the platform. The set of height adjustable legs are configured to collapse parallel with the platform to enable folding of the platform.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] The invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0007] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary foldable travel bed assembly fitted into a rear end of a vehicle and fully expanded, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0008] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the foldable travel bed assembly shown in FIG. 1, with the forward section folded back to enable operation of a vehicle middle seat, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0009] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a fold line between the forward section and a rearward section of the platform, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0010] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary support strut extending across the fold line of the platform, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0011] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary slidable support strut which supports the forward section and the rearward section of the platform, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0012] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the foldable travel bed assembly, showing the forward section partially folded to reveal the slidable supports struts and the set of height adjustable legs in a collapsed position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0013] FIG. 7A-7B illustrates a perspective view of the height adjustable legs, where FIG. 7A shows a leg being hingedly displaced from the extended position to collapse position, and FIG. 7B shows the height adjustable leg fully collapsed, such that platform can be stowed, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0014] FIG. 8 illustrates a close-up view of the sections for the height adjustable leg, with a pin set into a hole to fix the leg at a set height, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] FIG. 9 illustrates the foldable travel bed assembly with more than two sections in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] FIG. 10 illustrates multiple sections of the foldable travel bed assembly joined with slide locks, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] FIG. 11 illustrates the perspective view of the height adjustable legs with additional accessories, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 12 illustrates the perspective view of the foldable travel bed assembly with more than two sections, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 13 illustrates the perspective view of a pocket for the height adjustable leg, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 14 illustrates the perspective view of the slide lock, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 15 illustrates the perspective view of a middle height adjustable leg, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 16 illustrates the perspective view of a corner height adjustable leg, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 17 illustrates the perspective view of the in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 18 illustrates the perspective view of the topside of any panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word "exemplary" or "illustrative" means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any implementation described herein as "exemplary" or "illustrative" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims. For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "rear," "right," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in FIG. 1. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0027] At the outset, it should be clearly understood that like reference numerals are intended to identify the same structural elements, portions, or surfaces consistently throughout the several drawing figures, as may be further described or explained by the entire written specification of which this detailed description is an integral part. The drawings are intended to be read together with the specification and are to be construed as a portion of the entire "written description" of this invention as required by 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 112.

[0028] In one embodiment of the present invention presented in FIGS. 1-16, a foldable travel bed assembly 100, hereafter "assembly 100", provides a rigid, foldable platform 102 that removably fits into a rear end of a vehicle 120 to help support the weight of a sleeper, and also create storage space beneath the platform 102.

[0029] Referring to the FIG. 1 a perspective view of an exemplary foldable travel bed assembly is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Further, referring to FIG. 2 a perspective view of the foldable travel bed assembly shown in FIG. 1, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, platform 102 may be arranged parallel with floor 122 of vehicle 120, and defined by a forward section 104 oriented towards front of vehicle 120, and a rearward section 106 oriented towards rear of vehicle 120. The forward and rearward sections 104, 106 are hingedly connected at a fold line 110. The forward section 104 of platform 102 folds back onto the rearward section 106 of the platform 102. This folded arrangement enables use of a middle seat 202 in the vehicle 120 (See FIG. 2). Forward section 104 also has a forward fold line 110 integrated therein, and running perpendicular to the fold line 110. Forward fold line 110 allows two sections 108a, 108b of the forward section 104 to fold into each other.

[0030] In some embodiments, a set of slidable support strut 200a, 200b extends across the fold line 110 between the forward and rearward sections 104, 106 of the platform 102 (See FIG. 5). At least one handle fastens to the set of slidable support strut 200a, 200b for control thereof. The at least one handle 606a, 606b allows the set of slidable support strut 200a, 200b to be manually extended across the fold, in order to releasably lock the platform 102 into the operational mode. The at least one handle 606a, 606b can slide the set of slidable support strut 200a, 200b away from the fold to enable the forward section 104 to fold back onto the rearward section 106 of the platform 102.

[0031] Platform 102 also has a top side 124a oriented upwardly, and an opposing bottom side 124b oriented towards the floor 122 of the vehicle 120. A detachable cushion overlays the top side 124a to provide comfort for sleeping thereupon. Assembly 100 also provides a set of height adjustable legs 114a-d that are positioned at the corners of platform 102, so as to elevate platform 102 over vehicle floor 122. This elevation serves to create storage space between platform 102 and vehicle floor 122. The set of height adjustable legs 114a-d are configured to detachably attach to the bottom side 124b of platform 102, and are connected in such a manner so as to hingedly collapse to lay parallel with the bottom side 124b of the platform 102. This compacted arrangement enables platform 102 to be efficiently compacted for stowage.

[0032] In one aspect of the present invention, the platform 102 may be disposed in a rear end of a vehicle 120. The platform 102 may be defined by a forward section 104 and a rearward section 106 configured to joined together. The forward section 104 and the rearward section 106 may form a nexus at a fold line 110. The forward section 104 folds back onto the rearward section 106. The platform 102 is defined by a top side 124a and an opposing bottom side 124b. The detachable cushion 116 may be overlapped on the top side 124a of the platform 102. The set of slidable support struts 200a, 200b may extend along the bottom side 124b of the platform 102, and across the fold line 110 between the forward section 104 and the rearward section 106 of the platform 102. The at least one handle 606a, 606b joined to the set of slidable support struts 200a, 200b. The at least one handle 606a, 606b may operable to enable the set of slidable support strut 200a, 200b to be slidably displaced across the fold line 110. The forward section 104 may be restricted from folding back onto the rearward section 106 of the platform 102. The at least one handle 606a, 606b may be configured to enable the set of slidable support struts 200a, 200b to be slidably displaced away from the fold line 110. Further, the forward section 104 may be allowed to fold back onto the rearward section 106 of the platform 102. The set of height adjustable legs 114a, 114b, 114c, 114d are hingedly joined with the bottom side 124b of the platform 102. The set of height adjustable legs 114a, 114b, 114c, 114d are height adjustable, so as to elevate the platform 102 over a floor 122 of the vehicle 120, thereby enabling a storage space between the bottom side 124b of the platform 102 and the floor 122. The set of height adjustable legs 114a, 114b,114c, 114d are configured to collapse parallel with the platform 102 for stowage of the platform 102. In one embodiment, are represented in FIG. 3, the forward section 104 is joined with the rearward section 106 by a set of long piano hinges 300. Further, the length of a long piano hinge from the set of long piano hinges 300 may be in range of 35-37 inch. In a preferred embodiment the length of a long piano hinge from the set of long piano hinges 300 may be 36 inches.

[0033] In one embodiment, the width of the rearward section 106 of the platform 102 is in the range of 47-49 inch and length of the of the rearward section 106 is in range of 35-37 inch. In another embodiment, the forward section 104 may be bifurcated into two sections 108a, 108b forming a nexus at a forward fold line 110. In another embodiment, the two sections 108a, 108b of the forward section 104 are defined by a width in the range of 47-49 inch and a length in the range of 17-19 inch. In the preferred embodiment the two sections 108a-b of the forward section 104 may be defined by a width of 48'' and a length of 18''.

[0034] In another embodiment, the set of height adjustable legs 114a-d may be connected to the corners of the platform 102.

[0035] In another embodiment, the set of slidable support strut 200a, 200b may be comprise two 9'' hollow metal square tubes and one 18'' solid, square-shaped, steel rod. In another embodiment, the at least one handle 606a, 606b joins with the 18'' steel rod.

[0036] In another embodiment, the set of height adjustable legs 114a-d comprise 6 legs 114a-d.

[0037] In another embodiment, the set of height adjustable legs 114a-d telescopically height-adjust from a base height of 11'' to a maximum height of 22''.

[0038] In another embodiment, the two height adjustable legs of the set of height adjustable legs 114a-d joined with the forward section 104 of the platform 102 have a base height of 26''.

[0039] In another embodiment, each height-adjustable leg 114a-d comprises two telescoping leg sections that are set at a fixed height with a pin.

[0040] In another embodiment, the assembly 100 may comprises multiple clamps 500a, 500n that retain the support struts parallel with the platform 102.

[0041] In another embodiment, the vehicle 120 comprises a sports utility vehicle 120 or a truck.

[0042] One objective of the present invention is to provide a foldable travel bed that easily folds out of the way of the vehicle middle seat 202 and removes entirely from the rear end of the vehicle 120.

[0043] Another objective is to provide a travel bed that is not fastened to the vehicle 120.

[0044] Yet another objective is to allow the forward section 104 of the platform 102 to fold back, so as to enable use of the middle seat 202 of the vehicle 120.

[0045] An exemplary objective is to provide a storage space beneath the platform 102 with the set of height-adjustable legs 114a-d.

[0046] Additional objectives are to provide legs 114a-d that hingedly collapse, so as to enable stowage of the platform 102.

[0047] Yet another objective is to provide an inexpensive to manufacture foldable travel bed assembly 100 for a vehicle.

[0048] As referenced in FIG. 1, assembly 100 comprises a platform 102. The platform 102 is designed to be removably fitted from a rear end of a vehicle 120. In some embodiments, the vehicle 120 in which platform 102 is fitted can include a sports utility vehicle 120 or a truck that has sufficient length to utilize a bed. Those skilled in the art will recognize that trucks of this sort benefit from beds and sleepers during long voyages, camping trips, and the like. In one non-limiting embodiment, the platform 102 is compatible and adjustable to fit in any Toyota 4Runner model, Sequoia model, Toyota truck model with the long bed, and many other trucks.

[0049] As illustrated, platform 102 has a generally flat, rectangular shape (See FIG. 1). In another embodiment, platform 102 is defined by a forward section 104 and a rearward section 106 that are hingedly attached. In some embodiments, assembly 100 further comprises two 36'' long piano hinges 300 that hingedly attach the forward and rearward sections 104, 106. However, other types of hinges may also be utilized. The forward and rearward sections 104, 106 of platform 102 form a nexus at a fold line 110, allowing the forward section 104 to fold back onto the rearward section 106. FIG. 2 illustrates forward section 104 fully folded back into rearward section 106, allowing a vehicle middle seat 202 to be operational. This creates one of the advantages of the assembly 100--allowing use of the middle seat 202 while fitted into the vehicle 120.

[0050] In one non-limiting embodiment, rearward section 106 of platform 102 is defined by a width of 48'' and a length of 36''. However, in other embodiments, the dimensions can be greater or lesser.

[0051] Referring to the FIG. 3, a perspective view of a fold line between the forward section and a rearward section of the platform is illustrated respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, the forward section 104 is bifurcated into two sections 108a, 108b that form a nexus at a forward fold line 112 (FIG. 3). Each section 108a, 108b of the forward section 104 is independently foldable to enable raising a portion of the middle seats for operation. The two sections 108a-b of the forward section 104 are defined by a width of 48'' and a length of 18''. However, in other embodiments, the dimensions can be greater or lesser.

[0052] In some embodiments, platform 102 is also defined by a top side 124a that orients away from the floor 122 of the vehicle 120, and an opposing bottom side 124b that faces the floor 122 of the vehicle 120. As shown in FIG. 4, overlays the top side 124a of platform 102 is illustrated. Cushion 116 may be a foam or polymer panel that is bendable, weatherproof, and sufficiently thick to carry the weight of a sleeper.

[0053] Referring to the FIG. 4, a perspective view of an exemplary support strut extending across the fold line of the platform is illustrated respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The assembly 100 provides the set of slidable support strut 200a, 200b that extends along the bottom side 124b of platform 102, and across the fold line between forward and rearward sections 104, 106 of platform 102. When extended thereacross, support strut 200a, 200b restricts forward section 104 from folding back onto rearward section 106 of platform 102. Strut support can also be slidably removed from fold line to enable forward section 104 to fold back onto rearward section 106. In one non-limiting embodiment, the set of slidable support strut 200a, 200b comprises two 9'' hollow metal square tubes and one 18'' solid, square-shaped, steel rod. The at least one 606a, 606b handle joins with the 18'' steel rod. In some embodiments, assembly 100 comprises multiple clamps 500a, 500n disposed in a spaced-apart relationship that retain the support struts parallel with platform 102 Clamps may include U-brackets, for example.

[0054] Referring to the FIG. 5, a perspective view of an exemplary slidable support strut that supports the forward section 104, and the rearward section 106 of the platform 102 is illustrated respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, the at least one handle 606a, 606b may join to the slidable support strut 200a, 200b. Handle may include a U-shaped member that attaches to the set of slidable support strut 200a, 200b for control thereof. Handle 606a-b provides a gripping surface that enables the set of slidable support strut 200a, 200b to be slidably displaced across the fold line. In this manner, the forward section 104 is restricted from folding back onto the rearward section 106 of the platform 102. Handle is also operable to enable the support strut 200a, 200b to be slidably displaced away from the fold line, whereby the forward section 104 is allowed to fold back onto the rearward section 106 of the platform 102.

[0055] An exemplary pair of slidable support struts 600a, 600b are placed in a parallel relationship, with both extending along the bottom side 124b of the platform 102, and across the fold line between the forward and rearward sections 104, 106 of the platforms 102. The set of slidable support struts 600a-b may comprises an elongated base 604 that slidably receives a rail 602. The base 604 slides along the rail 602 to extend and retract the length of the support struts 600a-b. As discussed above a handle 606a, 606b attaches to the rail 602 from the top side 124a of the platform 102 through a slot, so as to enable sliding the rail 602.

[0056] Referring to the FIG. 6, a perspective view of the foldable travel bed assembly, showing the forward section 106 partially folded to reveal the slidable supports struts and the set of height adjustable legs in a collapsed position is illustrated respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The assembly 100 provides the set of height adjustable legs 114a-d that are hingedly joined with the bottom side 124b of the platform 102. The set of height adjustable legs 114a-d are defined by a base end 118 that attaches to platform, and a floor end 126 that rests on floor 122 of vehicle 120. Legs 114a-d can include short, axial members that fasten to the bottom side 124b of platform 102 through a fastener, such as a clamp, bolt, screw, magnet, and friction fit mechanism. The set of height adjustable legs 114a-d may utilize a telescoping configuration to enable the set of height adjustable legs 114a-d to increase and decrease in height. Since the set of height adjustable legs 114a-d are height-adjustable, the platform 102 is elevated over the floor 122 of the vehicle 120 to a desired height. In this manner, a storage space forms between the bottom side 124b of platform 102 and the floor 122 of vehicle 120.

[0057] Referring to the FIGS. 7A and 7B, a perspective view of the height adjustable legs 114a-d, are illustrated. FIG. 7A shows a leg being hingedly displaced from the extended position to collapse position, and FIG. 7B shows the height adjustable leg fully collapsed, such that platform can be stowed. In some embodiments, legs 114a-d are attached to platform 102 at a base end 118, and structurally configured to hingedly collapse parallel with the platform 102. This collapsible arrangement provides an effective configuration for stowage of the platform 102. When collapsed, the ends of the set of height adjustable legs 114a-d can be temporarily attached to the platform through use of at least one leg clamp.

[0058] Referring to the FIG. 8, a close-up view of the sections for the height adjustable leg, with a pin set into a hole to fix the leg at a set height is illustrated respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, each height-adjustable leg 114a comprises two telescoping leg sections 900a, 900b that are set at a fixed height with a pin 126b. The sections 900a-b slide against each other unit a desired height is achieved. In this manner, the set of height adjustable leg may be removable with the push of a button to completely detach the support leg from the platform 102. However, in other embodiments, the height-adjustment feature of the legs is performed through other height-adjustment mechanisms known in the art.

[0059] In one non-limiting embodiment, six legs 114a-d may be used. Four of the legs 114a-d connect to the corners of the platform 102 from the base end 118; and two of the legs 114a-d connect to a middle section, along the edge of the platform 102. In one embodiment, legs 114a-d telescopically height-adjust from a base height of 11'' to a maximum height of 22''. In another embodiment, two legs 114a-d joined with the forward section 104 of the platform 102 have a base height of 26''.

[0060] Referring to the FIG. 9, the foldable travel bed assembly with more than two sections is illustrated respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, the assembly 100 may comprises more than two sections. Further, a panel may be used to form the sections. The four identical panels 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d are illustrated in FIG. 9. Further, the four panels 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d may be injection molded with structural foam. The four panels 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d may be carpeted with a vinyl pad.

[0061] Referring to the FIG. 10, multiple sections of the foldable travel bed assembly joined with hinges is illustrated respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] In one embodiment, each identical panel may be linked together with hinges. Further, once the panels 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d may be linked with each other, a slide locks 300a, 300b, 300c may be used to keep the panels 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d from shifting or rotating. A male female triangle at the center of the panel 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d keeps the panels from drooping at their center. A reinforced ridges and support foam may keep the structure stable. A metal supports may be added for strength or more rigidity.

[0063] Referring to the FIG. 11, the perspective view of the height adjustable legs with additional accessories is illustrated respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment the height adjustable leg 114a may comprises a rubber foot 1141 and a hinge 118a. The hinge 118a may be configured to connect the height adjustable leg 114a with platform 102. The pin 126a may be used to adjust the height of the height adjustable leg 114a.

[0064] Referring to the FIG. 12, the perspective view of the foldable travel bed assembly with more than two sections is illustrated respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment four identical panels 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d may be joined together to form the assembly 100. Eight height adjustable legs 114a-114h may be used to support the platform.

[0065] Referring to the FIG. 13, the perspective view of a pocket for the height adjustable leg is illustrated respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment the pocket 1141g may be provided to hold the folded height adjustable leg 114g.

[0066] Referring to the FIG. 14, the perspective view of the slide lock is illustrated respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment the panels 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d may be linked with each other. Further, the slide locks 300a, 300b, 300c may be used to keep the panels 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d from shifting or rotating.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 14, the perspective view of the slide lock is illustrated respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 300a is a durable slide that travels into the slot 310a to keep the panels 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d from shifting or rotating. This is the same for 300b and 300c as referred to in FIG. 10.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 14, the perspective view of the slide lock is illustrated respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 600a is a fastener which connects directly to 180a and 180b which are metal rods that continue through 181a and 181b (referring to FIG. 18) on panels 104a and 104b. The fastener 600a that is connected to the rod 108a and 180b allows the corresponding panels to fold and this mechanism works like a hinge. This is the case for all panel fold points.

[0069] Referring to the FIG. 15, the perspective view of a middle height adjustable leg 114c is illustrated respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Referring to the FIG. 16, the perspective view of a corner height adjustable leg 114a is illustrated respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 120 is a spring-loaded button that locks the leg 114a in the upright position. When the spring-loaded button 120 is pressed it allows the leg 114a to fold underneath the respective panel 104a, 104b, 104c, or 104d.

[0071] Referring to the FIG. 16, the perspective view of a corner height adjustable leg 114a is illustrated respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 125 is an extension 1141g that provides a hole which allows the product to be fastened to the floor of the vehicle in which the product is in.

[0072] Referring to the FIG. 17. The perspective view of the panels 104a, 104b, 104c, and 104d folding on top of each other. The entire product can fold up on top of each other to be one panel wide.

[0073] Referring to the FIG. 18, the perspective view of the topside of any panel 104a, 104b, 104c, or 104d, 180a is a metal rod that that is threaded on both sides which sits inside of 181a which is a hole that continues through from both sides of the panel.

[0074] In conclusion, foldable travel bed assembly 100 provides a foldable platform 102 that removably fits into a rear end of a vehicle 120 to support a sleeper, and create storage space. Assembly 100 provides a platform 102 having a forward section 104 and a rearward section 106 that hingedly connect at a fold line. Forward section 104 folds back onto the rearward section 106 to enable use of a middle seat in vehicle 120.

[0075] Further, the set of slidable support strut 200a, 200b extends across the fold line between the forward and rearward sections 104, 106 of platform 102. At least one handle controls the support strut 200a, 200b to be manually extended across the fold to lock the platform 102 into operation. Platform 102 also has a top side 124a and a bottom side 124b. A detachable cushion 116 overlays the top side 124a to provide comfort for sleeping thereupon. Assembly 100 also provides the set of height-adjustable legs 114a-d supporting the platform 102. The height adjustable legs 114a-d hingedly collapse to lay parallel with the bottom side 124b of the platform 102 for stowage.

[0076] Since many modifications, variations, and changes in detail can be made to the described preferred embodiments of the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalence.

Claims

1. A foldable travel bed assembly for a vehicle, the assembly comprising: a platform disposed in a rear end of the vehicle, the platform being defined by a forward section and a rearward section configured to joined together, the forward section and the rearward section forming a nexus at a horizontal fold line, whereby the forward section is configured to fold back onto the rearward section, the platform further being defined by a top side and an opposing bottom side; a detachable cushion overlaying the top side of the platform; a set of slidable support struts extending along the bottom side of the platform, and across the horizontal fold line between the forward section and the rearward section of the platform; at least one handle joined to the set of slidable support struts; the at least one handle being operable to enable a set of slidable support struts to be slidably displaced across the horizontal fold line, wherein the forward section is restricted from folding back onto the rearward section of the platform, the at least one handle configured to enable the set of slidable support struts to be slidably displaced away from the horizontal fold line, wherein the forward section is allowed to fold back onto the rearward section of the platform; and a set of height adjustable legs hingedly joined with the bottom side of the platform, the set of height adjustable legs being height adjustable to adjust height between the platform and a floor of the vehicle, thereby enabling a storage space between the bottom side of the platform and the floor; the set of height adjustable legs configured to collapse parallel with the platform for stowage of the platform.

2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the forward section is joined with the rearward section by a set of long piano hinges, wherein length of a long piano hinge from the set of long piano hinges is in range of 35-37 inch.

3. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the rearward section of the platform comprises a width in range of 47-49 inch and a length in range of 35-37 inch.

4. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the forward section is bifurcated into two sections forming the nexus at the horizontal fold line.

5. The assembly of claim 4, wherein each section of the forward section is independently foldable to enable raising a portion of middle seats.

6. The assembly of claim 4, wherein the two sections of the forward section are defined by a width in range of 47-49 inch and a length in range of 17-19 inch.

7. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the set of height adjustable legs are detachable from the bottom side of the platform.

8. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the set of height adjustable legs are configured to connect corners of the platform.

9. The assembly of claim 8, wherein the set of height adjustable legs are installed at the corners of the platform, wherein the set of height adjustable legs are telescopically height-adjustable from a base height of 11'' to a maximum height of 22''.

10. The assembly of claim 9, wherein two height adjustable legs of the set of height adjustable legs joined with the forward section of the platform have base height of 26''.

11. The assembly of claim 1, wherein each height-adjustable leg comprises two telescoping leg sections that are set at a fixed height with a pin.

12. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the set of slidable support struts comprises two 9'' hollow metal square tubes and one 18'' solid, square-shaped, steel rod.