Combination Backpack and Inflatable Mattress

Abstract

The present invention is an improved recreational carrier combination such as a backpack and inflatable mattress that may be used on camping, hiking, or other recreational trips. The backpack and inflatable mattress includes one or more internal compartments for storing clothing, food, and other items. In addition, the backpack has a portable inflatable air mattress and air compressor or pump for filling the portable air mattress. The backpack further includes a rechargeable battery that may be externally charged, or alternatively, it can be charged by built-in solar panels. The backpack and inflatable mattress combination includes a set of shoulder straps for carrying the device, as well as, a handle and wheels for rolling the device. Finally, the device includes a protective cover that covers the inflatable bed when it is inflated and ready for use.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of recreational gear. More specifically, the present invention relates to an improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress that may be used for camping, hiking, or other recreational trips, activities and vacations. The improved recreational accessory, backpack and inflatable mattress combination, includes one or more internal compartments for storing clothing, food, accessories, tools and other items that are commonly taken on trips or other outings. In addition, the improved recreational accessory includes a portable inflatable air mattress that can be stored within an internal compartment of the carrier or backpack when it is not in use. Additionally, the improved recreational accessory backpack further includes an air compressor for filling the portable air mattress and can be used for other purposes such as filling bicycle tires, vehicle tires, floats, pillows and other inflatable items. The improved backpack device includes a rechargeable battery that may be externally charged, or alternatively, it can be charged by built-in solar panels. The improved recreational accessory, backpack and inflatable mattress combination, includes a set of shoulder or carrier straps for carrying the device, as well as, a handle, and wheels or a slide for rolling or pulling the device, much like conventional luggage. Finally, the invention includes a privacy tent or screen that covers the inflatable bed when it is inflated and ready for use. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices and methods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND

By way of background, traditional backpacks, rucksacks, carryalls and the like are used for storing various travel items and clothing that are commonly needed for taking trips, camping, engaging in recreational or social activities, and hiking. Locating a place to sleep while in the wilderness can be incredibly difficult, and typically requires additional sleeping bags, bedding pads, other accessories, or air mattresses. These additional items are not traditionally stored within a backpack or other luggage. Instead, separate storage is needed for the additional bedding items. This can be difficult to carry along with the user's backpack particularly during more strenuous activities such as hiking or climbing.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress that has storage space inside the backpack or other carrier for an inflatable mattress. In addition, there is a long-felt need for an improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress that has a built-in air compressor/pump for filling the inflatable air mattress or other items that may need inflation. Also, there is a long-felt need for an improved backpack device that has a rechargeable battery, which can be charged externally or by solar panels, for operating an air compressor/pump, LED lights, and other electrical devices. Finally, there is a long-felt need for an improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress that has a sunscreen, bug netting or privacy covering for placing over the air mattress when it is inflated and ready for use.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, is an improved combination recreational accessory carrier and includes one or more internal compartments for storing clothing, food, tools, accessories and other items that are commonly taken on trips. In addition, the improved recreational accessory carrier includes a portable, inflatable air mattress that can be stored within an internal compartment when it is not in use. Additionally, the improved recreational accessory carrier or backpack device includes an air compressor or pump for filling the portable air mattress or other inflatable items such as tires, pillows, floats and the like. The improved recreational accessory carrier backpack device may further include one or more covers for placing over the air mattress when it is inflated and ready for use. A privacy cover, screen, bug netting, or tent can be configured as having two side surfaces and a top surface positioned above and around the air mattress as tent or protective cover or shield around the user. Alternatively, a canopy-style cover can be configured as a flat surface, positioned above the air mattress that can act as a sunscreen, protective netting or cover for the user reducing exposure to bugs and the elements. Finally, a tubular mesh-style covering can extend the length of the air mattress and may act as an insect barrier to the user, thus allowing air flow to keep the user comfortable.

The improved recreational accessory carrier or backpack includes a rechargeable battery that may be externally charged, or alternatively, it can be charged by built-in solar panels that are affixed to the exterior surface(s) of one of the covers for the air mattress as previously described. Alternatively, the solar panels can be removed from the carrier, positioned for the best exposure to the sun and connected to the item needing to be charged. In addition to providing power for the air compressor/pump, or other accessories, the rechargeable battery can also be connected to one or more LED lights for luminating the area around the air mattress and inside the storage compartments in the backpack portion of the improved device. The cover for the air mattress also includes one or more speakers for connecting to a smart phone, thus allowing music, other sounds or alerts to be played through the speakers.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises an improved combination recreational accessory carrier or backpack, inflatable mattress, and a cover for going over the mattress when it is inflated or otherwise in use. In addition, the improved recreational accessory carrier or backpack includes a portable inflatable air mattress that can be stored within an internal compartment when it is not in use. The current embodiment of the present invention includes a cover that is configured as a privacy cover or tent for placing over the inflatable mattress when it is inflated and ready for use.

The recreational accessory carrier or backpack of the present invention further includes a retractable handle, wheels, skids, slides, and/or feet for allowing the user to pull it, much like traditional luggage. Further, shoulder or carrier straps may also be affixed to the backpack to allow it to be carried on a user's back, as would be the preferred mode for hiking and camping trips. The internal compartments may have a closure, such as zipper, hook and loop, magnets, snaps, or the like for securing clothing, food, and other items that are commonly taken on trips. In the transport mode, the inflatable air mattress is deflated and rolled-up within one of the specially configured internal compartments within the backpack. Further, an air compressor or air pump, along with a rechargeable battery are also fitted within one of the internal compartments of the backpack. A charging port for an external power source may be conveniently located on the top or side surfaces of the backpack. Alternately, the charging port may be located near or on the rechargeable battery unit. Removable solar panels may also be provided as well as a conventional plug configuration for use at a campground when electrical service is available.

When the user decides to setup the inflatable air mattress, the carrier or backpack is first turned onto its side. Then, the user opens the flap to the internal compartment containing the air mattress. The user then unrolls the air mattress. Next, the user opens the flap containing the air compressor/pump and activates the air compressor/pump by turning on the power switch. The rechargeable battery unit provides the necessary power for the air compressor/pump. When the air mattress is sufficiently inflated, the user turns off the air compressor. Opening a separate flap, the retractable frame can now be extended for the privacy or protective cover, which is stored within one of the internal compartments within the backpack. After setting-up the privacy cover, which in this embodiment of the present invention resembles a tent, the user is now ready to use the air mattress.

Additional features are also available for the user once the air mattress is inflated, and the privacy cover has been placed over the air mattress. First, solar panels may be affixed to the top and/or side surfaces of the privacy cover for the purpose of recharging the rechargeable battery when there is sufficient sunlight. Alternatively, the carrier or backpack may have a removable solar panel module which the individual can deploy for charging purposes. Second, one or more LED lights may be attached to the retractable frame so that the user can have some light to read while on the air mattress and inside the privacy tent when it is dark outside. Finally, one or more speakers can be attached to the retractable frame for connection to an external radio or smartphone for playing music, sporting events, and the like. The speakers may be configured for direct connection to the audio source or may alternately be connected wireless. The rechargeable battery may also include a USB charging port for the user's smartphone.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the improved combination recreational accessory carrier or backpack and inflatable mattress comprises an improved combination carrier or backpack, inflatable mattress, and a cover for going over the mattress when it is inflated. In addition, the improved backpack device includes a portable inflatable air mattress that can be stored within an internal compartment when it is not in use. The current embodiment of the present invention includes a cover that is configured as a canopy-style cover or sunscreen or protective netting for placing above the inflatable mattress when it is inflated and ready for use.

The recreational accessory carrier or backpack of the present invention further includes a retractable handle, wheels, skids, slides and/or feet for allowing the user to pull it, much like traditional luggage. Further, shoulder or carrier straps may also be affixed to the backpack to allow it to be carried on a user's back, as would be the preferred mode for hiking and camping trips. The internal compartments may have a closure, such as zipper, hook and latch, magnets, snaps, or the like for securing clothing, food, tools, accessories and other items that are commonly taken on trips. In the transport mode, the inflatable air mattress is deflated and rolled-up within one of the specially configured internal compartments within the backpack. Further, an air compressor or air pump, along with a rechargeable battery are also fitted within one of the internal compartments of the backpack. A charging port for an external power source may be conveniently located on the top or side surfaces of the backpack. Alternately, the charging port may be located near or on the rechargeable battery unit.

When the user decides to setup the inflatable air mattress, the backpack is first turned onto its side. Then, the user opens the flap for the internal compartment containing the air mattress. The user then unrolls the air mattress. Next, the user opens the flap containing the air compressor/pump and activates the air compressor/pump by turning on the power switch. The rechargeable battery unit provides the necessary power for the air compressor/pump. When the air mattress is sufficiently inflated, the user turns off the air compressor. Opening a separate flap, the retractable frame can now be extended for the canopy-style cover, which is stored within one of the internal compartments within the backpack or carrier. After setting-up the canopy-style cover, which in this embodiment of the present invention resembles a sunscreen, or other protective netting, the user is now ready to use the air mattress. Additional features are also available for the user once the air mattress is inflated, and the canopy-style cover has been placed over the air mattress as previously described in the first embodiment of the present invention.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress comprises a backpack, inflatable mattress, and a cover for going over the mattress when it is inflated. In addition, the improved backpack or recreational accessory carrier includes a portable inflatable air mattress that can be stored within an internal compartment when it is not in use. The current embodiment of the present invention includes a tubular mesh-style cover that is configured as an insect barrier for placing around the inflatable mattress when it is inflated and ready for use. A moisture impermeable cover may also be provided to protect the individual from rain, snow, and other moisture one may encounter during a camping trip or other recreational outing.

The backpack of the present invention further includes a retractable handle, wheels, skids, slides, and/or feet for allowing the user to pull it, much like traditional luggage. Further, shoulder straps may also be affixed to the backpack to allow it to be carried on a user's back, or supported from the individual's shoulder as would be the preferred mode for hiking and camping trips. The internal compartments may have a closure, such as zipper, hook and latch, magnets, snaps, or the like for securing clothing, food, and other items that are commonly taken on trips. In the transport mode, the inflatable air mattress is deflated and rolled-up within one of the specially configured internal compartments within the backpack. Further, an air compressor or air pump, along with a rechargeable battery are also fitted within one of the internal compartments of the backpack. A charging port for an external power source may be conveniently located on the top or side surfaces of the backpack. Alternately, the charging port may be located near or on the rechargeable battery unit.

When the user decides to setup the inflatable air mattress, the user opens the flap to the internal compartment containing the air mattress. The user then unrolls the air mattress. Next, the user opens the flap containing the air compressor/pump and activates the air compressor/pump by turning on the power switch. The rechargeable battery unit provides the necessary power for the air compressor/pump. When the air mattress is sufficiently inflated, the user turns off the air compressor. Next, the cover that was stored within one of the internal compartments of the backpack can now be extended and placed around the air mattress. Wire frame supports will keep the cover in the correct position. Additional closures, such as a zipper or magnets, can be used to allow the user to get inside of the cover. Once inside, the user will now have an insect, moisture, sun or other suitable barrier around them. In the present embodiment, a retractable frame attached to the backpack is not needed, thereby allowing the user to position the backpack upright or on its side. Additional features are also available for the user once the air mattress is inflated, and the cover has been placed around the air mattress as previously described in the first embodiment of the present invention. The cover may be made from a mesh material, moisture impermeable material, or other lightweight material, such as linen, cheese cloth or the like to provide suitable protection for the individuals.

The improved recreational accessory carrier, or backpack and inflatable mattress of the present invention is particularly advantageous because it may be used for travel, camping, hiking, as well as many other recreational activities. The improved recreational accessory carrier, or backpack and inflatable mattress combination comes in various configurations and may be made from nylon, denim, canvas or other suitable materials and can be of any color based on the user's desires and may include logos and other instructional decals without limitation. The improved recreational accessory carrier or backpack and inflatable mattress combination may be sized to accommodate users ranging from small to large or child to adult depending on the needs of the user.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the improved backpack and inflatable mattress combination of the present invention having a privacy cover as per the disclosed design with the air mattress inflated and ready for use;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design now in a transport mode similar to that of traditional luggage;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design and now placed on its side prior to unrolling the inflatable air mattress;

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design with air mattress inflated prior to extending the retractable frame and installing the privacy cover;

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a second preferred embodiment of the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress of the present invention having a canopy-style cover as per the disclosed design with the air mattress inflated and ready for use;

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a third preferred embodiment of the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress of the present invention having a tubular mesh-style cover as per the disclosed design with the air mattress inflated and ready for use.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an improved recreational accessory carrier combination such as a backpack and inflatable mattress that has storage space inside the backpack for an inflatable mattress and other items. In addition, there is a long-felt need for an improved recreational accessory carrier combination such as a backpack and inflatable mattress that has a built-in air compressor/pump for filling the inflatable air mattress. Also, there is a long-felt need for an improved recreational accessory carrier combination or backpack device that has a rechargeable battery, which can be charged externally or by solar panels, for operating an air compressor/pump, LED lights, and other electrical devices. Finally, there is a long-felt need for an improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress that has a sunscreen, rain shield or privacy covering for placing over the air mattress when it is inflated and ready for use.

The present invention, an improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress, includes one or more internal compartments for storing clothing, food, tools, accessories and other items that are commonly taken on trips or used for recreational purposes. In addition, the improved recreational accessory carrier or backpack device includes a portable inflatable air mattress that can be stored within an internal compartment when it is not in use. The inflatable mattress is inflatable from a first position to a second position with the second position being larger than the first position and the first position being of a size and dimension to fit within the compartment of the backpack or carrier. The inflatable mattress may also have one or more air vents to allow the air mattress to be quickly and easily deflated. Additionally, the improved carrier or backpack device includes an air compressor or pump for filling the portable air mattress. The improved carrier or backpack device may further include one or more covers for placing over the air mattress when it is inflated and ready for use. In one exemplary embodiment, a privacy cover or tent can be configured as having two side surfaces and a top surface positioned above and around the air mattress as tent around the user. In a second exemplary embodiment, a canopy-style cover can be configured as a flat surface positioned above the air mattress that can act as a sunscreen or rain shield for the user. Finally, in a third exemplary embodiment, a tubular mesh-style covering can extend the length of the air mattress and may act as insect barrier to the user, thus allowing air flow to keep the user comfortable.

The improved backpack device includes a rechargeable battery that may be externally charged, or alternatively, it can be charged by built-in solar panels that are affixed to the exterior surface(s) of one of the covers for the air mattress as previously described. In addition to providing power for the air compressor/pump, the rechargeable battery can also be connected to one or more LED lights for luminating the area around the air mattress and inside the storage compartments in the backpack portion of the improved device. The cover for the air mattress also includes one or more speakers for connecting to a smart phone, thus allowing music, sounds or alerts to be played through the speakers. The smartphone may contain one or more downloaded applications to allow for different communications and messages to be played through the speaker such as distress calls, location information, noises to scare off wildlife or other useful verbal commands or audible tones.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the improved recreational accessory combination or backpack and inflatable mattress of the present invention having a privacy or protective cover as per the disclosed design with the air mattress inflated and ready for use. The improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000 is shown with the backpack 100 laying on its side. The backpack or carrier 100 has an outer surface 111 made from a durable material such as canvas, nylon, denim, or other materials. The inflatable air mattress 200 is shown in the inflated position adjacent to backpack 100. The embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1, includes a privacy or protective cover 300 sized to create a tent or cover over the air mattress 200. Having an inclined top surface 322 and side surfaces 325, the privacy or protective cover 300 extends the entire length of the mattress from the foot end of the air mattress 200 to the head end of the air mattress 200 where it attaches to the retractable frame 310. The privacy cover 300 is preferably made from nylon, denim, canvas or other durable material. The cover, mattress, backpack or carrier may all be made from the same material and/or colors so that they all match or they may be made from different materials and colors depending on the preference of the user. The retractable frame 310, shown in the extended position in FIG. 1, is preferably made from lightweight tubular metal such as aluminum, PVC pipes or other material. The retractable frame 310 can be stored within opening 110 of the backpack or carrier 100. In the stowed position, the retractable frame 310 fits within the backpack 100 and is held securely in place by flap 315 and closure 317.

The improved backpack or carrier 1000 includes a rechargeable battery 470 (see FIG. 4) that may be externally charged via a charging port 30, or alternatively, it can be charged by solar panels 330 which may be integrated with the invention or may be a separate module that can be positioned or receive sunlight. If the solar panels are integral with the invention, the panels are affixed to the top surface 322 and/or side surfaces 325 of the privacy cover 300. In addition to providing power for the air compressor/pump 450 (see FIG. 4), the rechargeable battery 470 (see FIG. 4) can also be connected to one or more LED lights 340 for luminating the area around the air mattress 200 and inside the storage compartments in the backpack 100 of the improved device. The privacy cover 300 for the air mattress 200 also includes one or more speakers 350 for connecting to a smart phone, thus allowing music, sounds, alerts or other audible information to be played through the speakers 350. Both the LED lights 340 and speaker 350 may be attached to the retractable frame 310 or may be disposed elsewhere as needed on the carrier or mattress.

The retractable handle 10 can be used for pulling the backpack or carrier when it is in a transport mode along the ground in an upright position via wheels, skids or slides 20 attached to the bottom side of the backpack 100. Feet 25 are mounted on each corner opposite from wheels 20 on the bottom surface of the backpack 100 and allows the backpack 100 to stand upright. The backpack 100 in transport mode will further be described in FIG. 2.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention 1000 shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design now in a transport mode similar to that of traditional luggage. In this configuration, the inflatable air mattress 200 and the privacy cover 300 are stowed in the interior area of one of the internal compartments 400 of the backpack or carrier 100 with each of the compartments having a fastener to allow access to an interior area of the compartments. Wheels 20 are preferably made from polyurethane roller wheels and feet 25 are preferably made from a hard and durable plastic. The retractable handle 10 is constructed from a tubular metal and may include either a plastic or rubber grip for comfort and sized to fit the user's hand.

The Backpack or carrier 100 includes a plurality of internal compartments 400 for storing clothing, food, tools, accessories and other items that are commonly taken on trips or used for recreational activities. The items are kept secure and dry by closures 417 that tightly seal the flap 415 on the backpack or carrier 100. Closures 417 such as zipper, hook and loop, magnets, snaps, or the like secure and seal each of the internal compartments 400. The improved backpack device 1000 includes an inflatable air mattress 200 that is currently stowed within its internal compartment 400 behind the flap 215, which is sealed and secured by closure 217. The charging port 30 is preferably located on either the top or sides of the backpack 100 for attaching to an external power source.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention 1000 shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design now placed on its side prior to unrolling the inflatable air mattress 200. After opening the closure 217, the air mattress 200 can be unrolled or unfolded from within its internal compartment 400.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention 1000 shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design with the air mattress 200 inflated prior to extending the retractable frame 310 and installing the privacy cover or shield 300. When the user decides to setup the inflatable air mattress 200, the backpack 100 is first turned onto its side. Then, the user opens the closure 217 for the flap 215 to gain access to the internal compartment 400 containing the air mattress 200. The user then reaches into opening 219 and unrolls or unfolds the air mattress 200. Next, the user opens the flap 415 containing the air compressor/pump 450 and activates the air compressor/pump 450 by turning on the power switch. The rechargeable battery unit 470 provides the necessary power for the air compressor/pump 450. When the air mattress 200 is sufficiently inflated, the user turns off the air compressor 450. Opening a separate flap 315, the retractable frame 310 can now be extended for the privacy cover 300, which is stored within one of the internal compartments 400 within the backpack, 100 as previously described in the description for FIG. 1. After setting-up the privacy cover 300, which in this embodiment of the present invention resembles a tent, the user is now ready to use the air mattress 200. Air vents 431 and 433 may be provided to deflate the air mattress or to adjust the firmness of the mattress after inflating.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a second preferred embodiment of the improved recreational carrier combination or backpack and inflatable mattress of the present invention, having a canopy-style cover as per the disclosed design with the air mattress inflated and ready for use. The improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 2000 is shown with the backpack 2100 laying on its side. The inflatable air mattress 2200 is shown in the inflated position adjacent to the backpack 2100. The embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 5 includes a canopy-style cover 2300 sized to create a top-only sunscreen over air mattress 2200. Having an inclined top surface 2322, the canopy-style cover 2300 extends from the foot-end of the air mattress 2200 to the head end of the air mattress 2200 where it attaches to the retractable frame 2310. The canopy-style cover 2300 is preferably made from nylon, denim, canvas, or other durable material. The retractable frame 2310, shown in the extended position in FIG. 5, is preferably made from lightweight tubular metal such as aluminum or PVC pipes. Solar panels (not shown) may also be affixed to the exterior surface of top surface 2322 or may be provided as a module that can be repositioned for easy use for recharging the rechargeable battery as previously described in the description for FIG. 1.

The retractable frame 2310 can be stored within the backpack 2100 as previously described in the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 1. Feet or skids 2025 are mounted on each corner opposite from the wheels 2020 on the bottom surface of the backpack 2100 and allows the backpack 2100 to stand upright. The air mattress 2200 can be deflated and rolled-up or folded up and placed back into the backpack 2100 through an opening 2217. The canopy-style cover 2300, air compressor and rechargeable battery (not shown in FIG. 5, but previously described herein) are also stowed within internal compartments of the backpack 2100. The backpack 2100 in transport mode resembles the embodiment shown and described in FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a third preferred embodiment of the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress of the present invention having a tubular mesh-style cover as per the disclosed design with the air mattress inflated and ready for use. The improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 3000 is shown with the backpack 3100 standing upright. Alternately, the backpack 3100 may be also positioned on its side since this embodiment of the present invention includes a free-standing tubular mesh-style cover 3300. The inflatable air mattress 3200 is shown in the inflated position adjacent to the backpack 3100. The free-standing tubular mesh-style cover is sized to go over and around the air mattress 3200. Wire frames 3310 provide support for the mesh material 3322 to form a tunnel large enough for the user to lay down on the air mattress 3222. The mesh material 3322 is preferably made from a nylon weave netting material that permits air flow, but also serves as an insect barrier. The user may enter and exit the tubular mesh-style cover by opening the closure 3317, which may be a zipper, magnets, or snaps. The operation of the air mattress 3200 and backpack 3100 is similar to the previous embodiments described herein. Finally, in a further embodiment, the device may further comprise a commercially available tracking device such as a GPS transmitter, RFID tag, etc. to enable a user to track the location of the device.

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress”, “improved backpack device”, and “improved backpack” are interchangeable and refer to the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and 3000 of the present invention.

Notwithstanding the forgoing, the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and 3000 of the present invention can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that it accomplishes the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration and material of each of the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and 3000 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and designs of the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and 3000 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of each of the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and 3000 are important design parameters for user convenience, the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and 3000 may be of any size that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claims

1. A recreational accessory comprising: a carrier having an outer surface and at least one compartment having an opening for providing access to an interior area;at least one of a handle or straps attached to the carrier; andan inflatable mattress disposed within the interior area of the at least one compartment, wherein the inflatable mattress is repositionable between a first position and a second position.

2. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 1, wherein the carrier further comprises an air compressor for inflating the inflatable mattress.

3. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 1, wherein the first position is a deflated position, and the second position is an inflated position.

4. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 2 further comprising a rechargeable battery for powering the air compressor.

5. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 4 further comprising a solar panel for supplying power to the rechargeable battery.

6. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 1 further comprising at least one LED light.

7. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 1 further comprising a protective cover for use over the inflatable mattress, wherein the protective cover comprises a retractable frame.

8. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 7, wherein the protective cover provides protection against at least one of a sunlight, an insect and a moisture.

9. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 7, wherein the protective cover comprises an LED light mounted to the retractable frame.

10. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 7, wherein the protective cover is comprised of a mesh material.

11. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 7, wherein the carrier comprises a second compartment.

12. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 7, wherein the protective cover extends over an entire length of the inflatable mattress.

13. A backpack comprising: a compartment sized and configured to house an inflatable mattress;a second compartment sized and configured to house at least one of a food, a clothing, a tool or another accessory;an air compressor;a rechargeable battery connected to the air compressor; anda protective cover having a retractable frame.

14. The backpack as recited in claim 13 further comprising a LED light attached to the retractable frame.

15. The backpack as recited in claim 13, wherein the protective cover extends over a length of the inflatable mattress when the inflatable mattress is inflated.

16. The backpack as recited in claim 13, wherein the protective cover protects again a sunlight, an insect and a moisture.

17. The backpack as recited in claim 13, wherein the retractable frame is comprised of an aluminum or a plurality of PVC pipes.

18. The backpack as recited in claim 13 further comprising a solar panel connected to the rechargeable battery for recharging the rechargeable battery.

19. A backpack and mattress combination comprising: a backpack having a compartment with an interior areaan inflatable mattress having at least one air vent;an air compressor for use in inflating the inflatable mattress;a rechargeable battery for providing power for the air compressor;a solar panel for charging the rechargeable battery; anda protective cover having a retractable frame, wherein the protective cover extends over a length of the inflatable mattress when the inflatable mattress is in an inflated position.

20. The backpack and mattress combination as recited in claim 19, wherein the protective cover provides protection from at least one of a sunlight, an insect and a moisture.