CONVERTIBLE SUITCASE BED

Abstract

An embodiment of a convertible suitcase bed having a housing and a sleeping surface. The sleeping surface has a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The expanded configuration corresponds to an unpacked and deployed configuration of the sleeping surface for use as a bed. The collapsed configuration corresponds to the sleeping surface being packed and contained within the housing to be moved. The housing has a first compartment and a second compartment, the second compartment each compartment configured for storage.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present technology relates generally to a transportable sleeping surface. More particularly, the present technology relates to a suitcase comprising a sleeping surface.

BACKGROUND

Traveling as a group can be challenging. For example, a travelling family may include people having a range of ages, and each of those people may have different needs. Infants or toddlers may require a nap during the day. Even older children when travelling may not be comfortable sleeping alone in their own bedroom. If a child or other person is uncomfortable sleeping alone or unable to take a nap, they may not obtain an adequate amount of sleep. When a person does not obtain an adequate amount of sleep, the person, especially a child, may become irritable.

When irritable, it is harder for the person to make decisions and handle stress. When travelling, a person is out of their comfortable, familiar home environment and more likely to encounter decision points or stressful triggers. Thus, it is more important that travelers obtain an adequate amount of sleep. However, when travelling a sleeping surface for an infant or toddler may not be readily available. Typically, a sleeping surface is a bulky item and is not carried along with a travelling family.

It would be desirable to provide a sleeping surface that is easily transportable. It would further be desirable to provide a sleeping surface and is collapsible and expandable. It would further be desirable to provide a sleeping surface that can be integrated into a suitcase or other luggage of a traveler. It would further be desirable to provide a sleeping surface that can be integrated into a suitcase or other luggage without obstructing access to the storage compartments of the luggage, even when a person is resting on the sleeping surface. Accordingly, it is desirable to provide apparatus and methods for a CONVERTIBLE SUITCASE BED.

SUMMARY

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claims included herewith.

A convertible suitcase bed comprising a housing and a sleeping surface is provided. The housing comprises a first compartment and a second compartment and may be configured to receive the sleeping surface. The sleeping surface comprise an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration. More particularly, the housing is configured to receive the sleeping surface in the collapsed configuration.

The housing may define a suitcase, which may be in any configuration that a person of ordinary skill may desire. In one embodiment, the housing may comprise molded foam, however, any housing material may be utilized. The first compartment and the second compartment defined by the housing may be configured for storage.

The sleeping surface may be any suitable sleeping surface, including without limitation, a cot bed, an air mattress, a camping mat, memory foam, or any other surface that may be desired. In some embodiment, the sleeping surface may comprise a plurality of sleeping surface, for example, a memory foam sleeping surface may be positioned on a cot bed.

The sleeping surface may comprise any characteristics that may be desired. For example, the sleeping surface may comprise a waterproof coating or other washable surface. The waterproof coating may allow the sleeping surface to be easily cleaned if liquid spills or otherwise comes into contact with the sleeping surface.

In the collapsed configuration, the sleeping surface may be reduced to less than a size of the sleeping surface in the expanded configuration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The incorporated drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification exemplify the aspects of the present disclosure and, together with the description, explain and illustrate principles of this disclosure.

FIG. 1A is an illustration of one embodiment of a convertible suitcase bed.

FIG. 1B is an illustration of one embodiment of a bed.

FIG. 1C is an illustration of one embodiment of the bed.

FIG. 2A is an illustration of one embodiment of a convertible suitcase bed.

FIG. 2B is an illustration of one embodiment of the convertible suitcase bed from FIG. 2A in an expanded configuration.

FIG. 3A is an illustration of one embodiment of a convertible suitcase bed.

FIG. 3B is an illustration of the embodiment of the convertible suitcase bed from FIG. 3A in an expanded configuration.

FIG. 4A is an illustration of one embodiment of a convertible suitcase bed in an expanded configuration.

FIG. 4B is an illustration of one embodiment of the convertible suitcase bed of FIG. 4B in a collapsed configuration.

FIG. 5A is an illustration of one embodiment of a convertible suitcase bed in a collapsed configuration.

FIG. 5B is an illustration of one embodiment of the convertible suitcase bed of FIG. 5A in an expanded configuration.

FIG. 6A is an illustration of one embodiment of a convertible suitcase bed.

FIG. 6B is an illustration of one embodiment of the convertible suitcase bed of FIG. 6A in an expanded configuration.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of one embodiment of a convertible suitcase bed comprising a plurality of sleeping surfaces.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference will be made to the accompanying drawing(s), in which identical functional elements are designated with like numerals. The aforementioned accompanying drawings show by way of illustration, and not by way of limitation, specific aspects, and implementations consistent with principles of this disclosure. These implementations are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure and it is to be understood that other implementations may be utilized and that structural changes and/or substitutions of various elements may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be construed in a limited sense.

FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a suitcase 100 in a collapsed configuration. In the collapsed configuration, the suitcase 100 comprises a sleeping surface 120, illustrated in FIG. 1 C. More particularly, the suitcase 100 comprises a first compartment 102 and a second compartment 104.

The first compartment 102 may be a main compartment and may be configured as storage to receive any item that may be desired. The first compartment 102 may be configured in any manner that a person of ordinary skill in the art may desire. As illustrated, the first compartment 102 may be accessible from a side of the suitcase 100.

The second compartment 104 is positioned on a front portion of the suitcase 100 and can be accessed independently of the first compartment 102. The second compartment 104 may be configured to store the sleeping surface 120 when in the collapsed configuration. It is contemplated that the second compartment 104 being accessible from outside the suitcase may permit access to the first compartment 102 when in an expanded configuration.

FIGS. 1B and 1C show an illustrative sleeping surface 120 in the collapsed configuration. As illustrated the sleeping surface 120 may be rolled or folded into the second compartment 102 of the suitcase 100. Of course, other configurations of the sleeping surface 120 are contemplated and the aforementioned are provided as non-limiting examples.

In an expanded configuration, the sleeping surface 120 may expand after being removed from the suitcase 100. The sleeping surface 120 may comprise a valve 122. The valve 122 may be opened to allow the sleeping surface 120 to expand. When opened, the valve 122 may allow air or other fluid to enter the interior of the sleeping surface 120. The air or fluid may cause the sleeping surface 120 to expand. For example, the sleeping surface 120 may be an inflatable mattress or sleeping pad. Of course, any means of expanding the sleeping surface 120 are contemplated and the aforementioned are provided as non-limiting examples. For example, the sleeping surface may comprise foam or another padding.

The sleeping surface 120 may comprise any dimensions that may be desired. For example, the sleeping surface 120 may have an expanded thickness of at least 2 inches. In one embodiment the sleeping surface 120 may comprise a length of about 52 inches and width of about 22 inches when in the expanded configuration. In another embodiment, the sleeping surface 120 comprises a length of about 21 inches and a width of about 38 inches in the expanded configuration. Of course, any dimensions are contemplated and the aforementioned are provided as non-limiting examples.

Further, the sleeping surface 120 may comprise any characteristics that a person of ordinary skill may desire. In one embodiment the sleeping surface 120 may be waterproof. In some embodiments, the sleeping surface 120 may comprise a plastic outer surface. It is contemplated that the sleeping surface 120 may be configured to permit cleaning, for example, the outer surface may be wipeable. Of course, other configurations are contemplated for cleaning, including being machine washable.

The sleeping surface 120 may be stored, when in the collapsed configuration, in the second compartment 104. It is contemplated that storing the sleeping surface 120 in the second compartment 104 may permit the first compartment 102 to be used for additional storage.

FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate another embodiment of a sleeping surface 220 integrated into a suitcase 200. The sleeping surface 220 includes a first section 222 and a second section 224. The sleeping surface 220 may have a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. In the collapsed configuration shown in FIG. 2A, the sleeping surface 200 may fit into a housing of the suitcase 200 when the housing is in the closed configuration. FIG. 2B shows the first and section sections of the sleeping surface 220 in the expanded configuration. In the expanded configuration, the first section 222 of the sleeping surface 220 may form a side or wall of a first compartment 102 of the suitcase 100. In the expanded configuration, the second section 224 of the sleeping surface 220 may form a side or wall of a second compartment 204 of the suitcase 200. In the expanded configuration, the housing may be in an open configuration.

The first section 222 and the second section 224 of the sleeping surface 220 may be zippered or otherwise releasably affixed to the housing of the suitcase 200. When zippered or otherwise releasably affixed to the housing, the sleeping surface 220 may be able to support a sleeping infant, toddler, or other person. The first section 222 of the sleeping surface 220 may be unzipped or otherwise disconnected from the housing to provide access to the first storage compartment 232 of the suitcase 200. The second section 224 of the sleeping surface 220 may be unzipped or otherwise disconnected from the housing to provide access to the second storage compartment 234 of the suitcase 200. The first section 222 and the second section 224 of the sleeping surface 220 may be independently affixed to or detached from the housing.

In the collapsed configuration, the sleeping surface may be folded about a seam 206 and positioned within the housing 210. In the collapsed configuration, the housing 210, in the closed configuration, may compress the sleeping surface. Compressing the sleeping surface 220 may reduce a thickness of the sleeping surface 220 and allow it to be contained in the suitcase 200 and transported along with the suitcase 200. The sleeping surface 220 may be formed of any material that may be desired, including, without limitation, foam, memory foam, feathers, cotton, polyester, air, or any other material.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate one embodiment of a sleeping surface 320 integrated into a suitcase 300. The sleeping surface 320 may have an expanded configuration shown in FIG. 3B and a collapsed configuration shown in FIG. 3A. The sleeping surface 320 is affixed to a frame 328 to define a cot bed, that is secured to a housing 310 by a plurality of legs 326. The frame 328 comprises a first hinge 340a and a second hinge 340b disposed on opposing sides of the frame 328. More particularly, the first hinge 340a and the second hinge 340b may be disposed at opposing sides of a midline of the frame 328. The first hinge 340a and the second hinge 340b may permit the frame 328 and the sleeping surface 320 to be rotated such that the frame 328 and the sleeping surface are folded upon themselves.

In one embodiment, the sleeping surface 320 may be approximately 25 inches by approximately 38 inches in the expanded position in FIG. 3B and approximately 25 inches by approximately 19 inches in size when in the closed position and stored within the suitcase 300, as shown in FIG. 3A.

In the expanded configuration, a height of the sleeping surface 320 above a housing 310 may be adjustable. It is contemplated that raising the height of the sleeping surface may provide access to a first section 322 and/or second storage 324 section of the suitcase. Raising the height of the sleeping surface 320 may provide access to any of the first section 322 or second section 324 of the suitcase 300. It is contemplated that raising the height may permit access to even when the sleeping surface 320 is in use. The sleeping surface 320 may include a mechanism 326 for locking the sleeping surface 320 at a desired height relative to the housing 310. In the illustrated embodiment, the mechanism 326 for locking the sleeping surface is a ball lock pin, however, any mechanism for locking may be utilized.

Lowering the height of the sleeping surface 320 may allow the sleeping surface 320 to be affixed to the housing 310. Affixing the sleeping surface 320 to the housing 310 may provide additional support to the sleeping surface 320. It is contemplated that the additional support may reduce potential sagging of the sleeping surface 320 when in use. The additional support may allow a heavier person to sleep comfortably on the sleeping surface 320. Further, lowering the height of the sleeping surface 320 may allow the sleeping surface 320 to be collapsed and stored within the housing 310 of the suitcase 300 when in the closed configuration illustrated in FIG. 3A.

FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate one embodiment of a convertible suitcase bed comprising a suitcase and a sleeping surface 420. The sleeping surface 420 may be stored in the suitcase when the sleeping surface 420 is in a collapsed configuration illustrated in FIG. 4B. The sleeping surface 420 may be removed from the suitcase and unpacked into an expanded configuration illustrated in FIG. 4A.

In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeping surface 420 is affixed to a frame 428 to define a cot bed. The frame 428 comprises a first hinge 440a and a second hinge 440b, each disposed on opposing side of a midline of the frame 428. The first hinge 440a and the second hinge 440b may permit the sleeping surface 420 and the frame 428 be rotated to the closed configuration illustrated in FIG. 4B.

In an embodiment, the frame 428 comprises a first collapsible leg 426a and a second collapsible leg 426b, however, any number of collapsible legs are contemplated. The collapsible legs 426a, 426b may be opened to position the sleeping surface 420 above a floor, or other surface, supporting the sleeping surface 420. The collapsible legs 426a, 426b may comprise a mechanism (not shown) for locking the collapsible legs in a desired orientation. The mechanism for locking may be any mechanism that may be desired, for example, a ball lock pin.

The collapsible legs 426a, 426b may comprise any height. In one embodiment, the collapsible legs 426a, 426b may be about 6 inches in height and the sleeping surface 420 may be suspended about 6 inches above the floor. In some embodiments, the frame 428 may in the collapsed configuration have a thickness of less than about 2 inches. For example, the frame 428 may have a thickness of about 1.5 inches.

In some embodiments, the frame 428 may define an edge around the sleeping surface 420. It is contemplated that the edge may be serve as a rail or bumper to prevent a person from rolling off the sleeping surface 420. Of course, in other embodiments (not shown), the sleeping surface 420 may be above or level with the frame

FIGS. 5A-B illustrate one embodiment of a convertible suitcase bed comprising a suitcase and a sleeping surface 520. The sleeping surface 520 is shown in an expanded configuration FIG. 5B and a collapsed configuration in FIG. 5A. In the expanded configuration of FIG. 5B, a first section 522 of the sleeping surface 520 may form a side or wall of a first compartment 502 of the suitcase, and a second section 524 of the sleeping surface 502 may form a side or wall of a second compartment 504 of the suitcase.

In some embodiments, the first section 522 of the sleeping surface 520 may be releasably affixed to a side or wall of the first compartment 502 of the suitcase. The second section 524 of the sleeping surface 520 may likewise, be releasably affixed to a side or wall of the second compartment 504 of the suitcase. For example, the first section of the sleeping surface may be releasably attached to the side or wall of the first storage compartment of the suitcase by hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro) or other suitable mechanisms.

In an embodiment, the first section 522 and second section 524 of the sleeping surface 520 may be zippered or otherwise releasably affixed to a housing 510 of the suitcase. When zippered or otherwise releasably affixed to the housing, the sleeping surface 520 may be able to support a sleeping infant, toddler or other person or object. The first section 522 of the sleeping surface 524 may be unzipped or otherwise disconnected from the housing 510 to provide access to the first compartment 502 of the suitcase. The second section of the sleeping surface may be unzipped or otherwise disconnected from the housing to provide access to the second storage compartment of the suitcase. The first and second sections of the sleeping surface may be independently affixed to or detached from the housing. However, any suitable mechanisms for securing the first and second sections of the sleeping surface to the housing are contemplated. For example, hook and loop fasteners may be utilized in some embodiments.

Turning to FIG. 5A, the sleeping surface 520 may is illustrated in a collapsed configuration. In the collapsed configuration, the sleeping surface 520 may be folded about a seam and positioned within the housing 510. The seam may permit the first section 522 to fold relative to the second section 524 when the sleeping surface 520 is in the collapsed configuration. In one embodiment, not shown, the seam may permit the first section to fold relative to the second section at a hinge. It is contemplated that in the expanded configuration, each of the first and second sections may be rotated at least 90 degrees relative to the first and second compartments, respectively.

In the closed configuration, the housing 510 may compress the sleeping surface 520. Compressing the sleeping surface 520 may reduce a thickness of the sleeping surface 520 and allow the sleeping surface 520 to be packed within, and transported along, within a suitcase.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate one embodiment of a convertible suitcase bed comprising a sleeping surface 620 that may be integrated into a suitcase 600. In FIG. 6B, the sleeping surface 620 is shown in an expanded configuration. The sleeping surface 620 may also have a collapsed configuration. In the collapsed configuration shown in FIG. 6A, the sleeping surface 620 may be folded about a seam 606 and positioned within a housing 610 of the suitcase 600. In the collapsed configuration, the sleeping surface 620 may fit within the housing 610 when the suitcase 600 is in the closed configuration of FIG. 6A.

The housing 610 may comprise a first compartment 602 and a second compartment 604. Any of the first compartment 602 and the second compartment 604 may be configured for storage. The housing 610 may have an open configuration illustrated in FIG. 6B and a closed configuration illustrated in FIG. 6A. In the closed configuration, the housing 610 may compress the sleeping surface 620 to define the collapsed configuration. Compressing the sleeping surface 620 may reduce a thickness of the sleeping surface 620 and allow it to be transported along with the suitcase.

Even when the housing 610 is in the closed configuration, the first compartment 602 may be accessible via a first closable opening in a first outer wall of the housing 610. Even when the housing is in the closed configuration, the second compartment 604 may be accessible via a second closable opening in a second outer wall of the housing 610. The first and second openings may be closable and openable via zippers or other suitable closure mechanisms.

FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of a convertible suitcase bed comprising a plurality of sleeping surfaces. As illustrated, a first compartment 702 of a suitcase comprises a first sleeping surface 720a and second sleeping surface 720b, each in a collapsed configuration. A third sleeping surface 720c is illustrated in its collapsed configuration and positioned above a second compartment 704 of the suitcase. The plurality of sleeping surfaces may be any of the sleeping surfaces discussed with reference to FIGS. 1A-6B or any other sleeping surface that may be desired.

FIG. 7 illustrates a first section 722c of the third sleeping surface 720c has been detached from housing 710 and folded over a second section 724c of sleeping surface 720c. As shown, the second section 724c may still be attached to the housing and may form a side or wall of a second compartment 704. In an expanded state (not shown), the third sleeping surface may also be releasably affixed to a housing of the suitcase and form a side or wall of the first storage compartment. However, in another embodiment, in the expanded state the third sleeping surface may be fully detached and deployed separate from the housing.

It is contemplated that any of the plurality of sleeping surfaces may be removed from the housing and may be used separately or in combination with one another. For example, any of the first, second, or third sleeping surfaces of FIG. 7 may be used in combination with another.

In one embodiment, the convertible suitcase bed comprising a plurality of sleeping surfaces. The plurality of sleeping surfaces may be any of the sleeping surfaces discussed with reference to FIGS. 1A-7 or any other sleeping surface that may be desired.

It is contemplated that any of the plurality of sleeping surfaces may be removed from the housing and may be used separately or in combination with one another. For example, any of a first, second, or third sleeping surfaces may be used in combination with another.

The dimensions of the suitcases in FIGS. 1A-6B may be any dimension that may be desired. In one embodiment, the housing may comprise a width of 27 inches and a depth of 14 inches. In some embodiments, the housing may comprise a total height of about 19 inches. In an embodiment, the housing may comprise a total combined length, width, and height of less than 62 inches.

In another embodiment, the housing may not exceed 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches.

It is contemplated that the dimensions of the sleeping surface may be any suitable for storage within the housing. In one embodiment the sleeping surface may be about 22 inches by about 52 inches in an expanded configuration. In another embodiment, the sleeping surface may be about 21 inches by about 38 inches in an expanded configuration.

In one embodiment, the housing may have the dimensions of about 27 inches by about 19 inches by about 14 inches in a collapsed and about 38 inches by size inches by 27 inches in an open configuration.

In one embodiment, in the open configuration, the first section and the second section of sleeping surface are each configured to have a thickness of at least 2 inches; and in the closed configuration, the housing is configured to comprises the sleeping surface so that a total thickness of the first section and the second section is 3.5 inches or less.

In an embodiment, the first compartment and second compartment are rotatable about the hinge such that the first compartment and the second compartment may be positioned relative to each other to form an open configuration of the housing; and in the open configuration, the housing has dimensions of 38 inches×6 inches×27 inches. The mattress pad may be inflated to dimensions of 25 inches×2 inches×36 inches.

Thus, methods and apparatus for a CONVERTIBLE SUITCASE BED are provided. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that the present disclosure can be practiced by other than the described embodiments, which are presented for purposes of illustration rather than of limitation.

The following examples are exemplary embodiments.

• • 1. A convertible suitcase bed system comprising:
  • a housing;
  • a main compartment within the housing;
  • a side compartment within the housing; and
  • a sleeping surface that has an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration,
  • wherein, in the collapsed configuration, the sleeping surface is storable in the side compartment.
  • 2. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 1 wherein the housing has a total width of 27 inches and a total depth of 14 inches.
  • 3. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 1 wherein the housing has a total height of 19 inches.
  • 4. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 1 wherein the housing has a total combined length, width and height that does not exceed 62 inches or 158 centimeters.
  • 5. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 1 wherein the housing has a total combined length, width and height that does not exceed 45 inches or 114 centimeters.
  • 6. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 1 wherein the housing has a combined dimensions that do not exceed 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches.
  • 7. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 1 wherein the housing is constructed from molded foam.
  • 8. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 1 wherein in the expanded configuration, the sleeping surface has dimensions of 22 inches×52 inches.
  • 9. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 1 wherein in the expanded configuration, the sleeping surface has dimensions of 21 inches×38 inches.
  • 10. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 1 wherein the sleeping surface is a mattress pad.
  • 11. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 10 wherein the mattress pad:
  • comprises a self-inflating valve; and is inflatable to a thickness of at least 2 inches.
  • 12. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 1 wherein the sleeping surface comprises a waterproof surface.
  • 13. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 1 wherein the sleeping surface comprises a plastic surface.
  • 14. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 1 wherein the sleeping surface is affixed to a frame.
  • 15. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 14 wherein the frame comprises collapsible legs, that in the expanded configuration, position the sleeping surface about 6 inches above a floor supporting the collapsible legs.
  • 16. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 14 wherein the frame comprises an edge, that in the expanded configuration, prevents a person from rolling off the sleeping surface.
  • 17. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 14 wherein the frame, in the collapsed configuration, has a thickness of about 1.5 inches.
  • 18. A convertible suitcase bed system comprising:
  • a housing comprising:
  • a first compartment;
  • a second compartment; and
  • a hinge that allows the first compartment to rotate relative to the second compartment;
  • a mattress pad comprising:
  • a first section that forms a wall of the first compartment;
  • a second section that forms a wall of the second compartment; and
  • a seam that allows the first section to fold relative to the second section when the housing is rotated about the hinge.
  • 19. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 18 wherein:
  • the first section is releasably affixed to the housing; and
  • the second section is releasably affixed to the housing.
  • 20. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 19 wherein when the first section and the second section are affixed to the housing, the mattress pad can support a sleeping person.
  • 21. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 18 wherein the first section is releasably affixed to the housing by a zipper that allows the first section to be released from the housing and provide access to an interior of the first compartment.
  • 22. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 18 wherein the second section is releasably affixed to the housing by a zipper that allows the second section to be released from the housing and provide access to an interior of the second compartment.
  • 23. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 18, the mattress pad further comprising a self-inflating valve and is inflatable to a thickness of 2 inches.
  • 24. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 18 wherein:
  • the mattress pad has an inflated state and deflated state; and
  • when the mattress pad is in the deflated state, the first compartment can be rotated, about the hinge, at least 180° relative to the second compartment.
  • 25. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 18 wherein:
  • the mattress pad has an inflated state and deflated state; and
  • when the mattress pad is in the inflated state, the first compartment can be rotated, about the hinge, at least 90° relative to the second compartment.
  • 26. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 18 wherein the first compartment and second compartment are rotatable about the hinge such that the first compartment and the second compartment may be positioned relative to each other to form a closed position of the housing.
  • 27. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 26 wherein, in the closed position, the housing has dimensions of 27 inches×19 inches×14 inches.
  • 28. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 18 wherein:
  • the first compartment and second compartment are rotatable about the hinge such that the first compartment and the second compartment may be positioned relative to each other to form an open configuration of the housing; and
  • in the open configuration, the housing has dimensions of 38 inches×6 inches×27 inches.
  • 29. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 28 wherein, in the open configuration, the mattress pad may be inflated to dimensions of 25 inches×2 inches×36 inches.
  • 30. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 29 wherein in the open configuration:
  • the first section of the mattress pad is affixable to the housing such that the first section can support at least 100 lb. of weight when suspended over an interior of the first compartment; and the second section of the mattress pad is affixable to the housing such that the second section can support at least 100 lb. of weight when suspended over an interior of the second compartment.
  • 31. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 18 wherein the mattress pad comprises a waterproof surface.
  • 32. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 18 wherein the mattress pad comprises a plastic surface.
  • 33. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 18 wherein the mattress pad comprises memory foam, that self-expands to a thickness of 2 inches.
  • 34. A convertible suitcase bed system comprising a housing that has a closed configuration and an open configuration,
  • wherein:
  • in the open configuration, a cot bed contained within the housing provides a sleeping surface; and in the closed configuration the sleeping surface is folded within the housing.
  • 35. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 34 wherein the sleeping surface is approximately 25 inches×38 inches.
  • 36. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 34 wherein in the closed configuration, the sleeping surface is folded and measures approximately 25 inches×19 inches.
  • 37. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 34 wherein in the open configuration, a height of the sleeping surface above the housing is adjustable.
  • 38. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 37 wherein raising the height of the sleeping surface above the housing allows access to a storage area defined by the housing.
  • 39. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 38 wherein lowering the height of the sleeping surface encloses the storage area defined by the housing.
  • 40. A convertible suitcase bed system comprising:
  • a first storage area;
  • a second storage area;
  • a hinge that allows the first storage area to rotate relative to the second storage area; and
  • a sleeping surface comprising:
  • a first section that forms a first side of the first storage area; and
  • a second section that forms a second side of the second storage area.
  • 41. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 40 wherein:
  • the first section is detachable from the first storage area; and
  • the second section is detachable from the second storage area.
  • 42. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 40 wherein the sleeping surface comprises memory foam.
  • 43. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 40 wherein the first storage area is rotatable about the hinge, relative to the second storage area, from an open configuration to a closed configuration.
  • 44. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 43 wherein: in the open configuration, a first thickness of the first section of the sleeping surface and a second thickness of the second section of the sleeping surface are positioned side-by-side; and in the closed configuration, a first area of the first section of the sleeping surface is positioned touching a second area of the second section of the sleeping surface.
  • 45. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 44 wherein:
  • the first area is defined by a first length and a first width of the first section; and
  • the second area is defined by a second length and a second width of the second section.
  • 46. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 44 further comprising a housing, and
  • wherein, the sleeping surface comprises memory foam, and in the closed configuration, the housing is configured to compress the memory foam.
  • 47. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 44 further comprising a housing, and wherein:
  • in the open configuration, the first section and the second section of sleeping surface are each configured to have a thickness of at least 2 inches; and
  • in the closed configuration, the housing is configured to comprises the sleeping surface so that a total thickness of the first section and the second section is 3.5 inches or less.
  • 48. A convertible suitcase bed system comprising:
  • a first storage area having a first inner wall and a first outer wall;
  • a second storage area having a second inner wall and a second outer wall;
  • a hinge that allows the first storage area to rotate relative to the second storage area; and
  • a sleeping surface comprising:
  • a first section that forms the first inner wall of the first storage area; and
  • a second section that forms the second inner wall of the second storage area;
  • wherein, the first storage area is accessible via a first closable opening in the first outer wall and the second storage area is accessible via a second closable opening in the second outer wall.
  • 49. The convertible suitcase bed system of example 48, further comprising:
  • a first zipper mechanism that is configured to open and close the first closable opening; and
  • a second zipper mechanism that is configured to open and close the second closable opening.
  • 50. A method for deploying a sleeping surface:
  • releasing a first section of a suitcase from a second section of the suitcase; and
  • expanding a sleeping surface positioned between the first section and the second section by rotating the first section relative to the second section.
  • 51. The method of example 50 further comprising inflating the sleeping surface.
  • 52. The method of example 50 further comprising allowing the sleeping surface to self-expand in thickness after the expanding.
  • 53. The method of example 50 further comprising collapsing the sleeping surface by rotating the first section relative to the second section.
  • 54. The method of example 53 further comprising compressing the sleeping surface.
  • 55. The method of example 53 further comprising after the collapsing, inserting or removing an object from a storage area within the first section.
  • 56. The method of example 54 further comprising compressing the sleeping surface between the first section and the second section.
  • 57. The method of example 54 further comprising compressing the sleeping surface by closing a housing that encloses the first section and the second section.
  • 58. The method of example 57 further comprising after closing the housing, inserting or removing an object from a storage area within the first section via an opening in the housing.
  • 59. The method of example 50 further comprising after the expanding, inserting or removing an object from a storage area within the first section.

These and other aspects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the following drawings and the detailed description of the preferred embodiments.

Various elements, which are described herein in the context of one or more embodiments, may be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination. Further, the processes described herein are not limited to the specific embodiments described. For example, the processes described herein are not limited to the specific processing order described herein and, rather, process blocks may be re-ordered, combined, removed, or performed in parallel or in serial, as necessary, to achieve the results set forth herein.

It will be further understood that various changes in the details, materials, and arrangements of the parts that have been described and illustrated herein may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the following claims.

All references, patents and patent applications and publications that are cited or referred to in this application are incorporated in their entirety herein by reference. Finally, other implementations of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosure disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of the disclosure being indicated by the claims.

Claims

1. A convertible suitcase bed system comprising: a housing;a first compartment within the housing;a second compartment within the housing; anda sleeping surface that has an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration, wherein, in the collapsed configuration, the sleeping surface is storable in the side compartment.

2. The convertible suitcase bed system of claim 1 wherein the housing has a total width of 27 inches and a total depth of 14 inches.

3. The convertible suitcase bed system of claim 1 wherein the housing is constructed from molded foam.

4. The convertible suitcase bed system of claim 1 wherein the sleeping surface is a sleeping pad comprising a self-inflating valve, and is inflatable to a thickness of at least 2 inches.

5. The convertible suitcase bed system of claim 1 wherein the sleeping surface comprises a frame.

6. The convertible suitcase bed system of claim 5 wherein the frame comprises collapsible legs, that in the expanded configuration, position the sleeping surface about 6 inches above a floor supporting the collapsible legs.

7. A convertible suitcase bed system comprising: a housing comprising: a first compartment;a second compartment; anda hinge that allows the first compartment to rotate relative to the second compartment;a sleeping surface comprising: a first section that forms a wall of the first compartment;a second section that forms a wall of the second compartment; anda seam that allows the first section to fold relative to the second section when thehousing is rotated about the hinge.

8. The convertible suitcase bed system of claim 7 wherein: the first section is releasably affixed to the housing; andthe second section is releasably affixed to the housing.

9. The convertible suitcase bed system of claim 7 wherein the first section is releasably affixed to the housing by a zipper that allows the first section to be released from the housing and provide access to an interior of the first compartment.

10. The convertible suitcase bed system of claim 7 wherein the second section is releasably affixed to the housing by a zipper that allows the second section to be released from the housing and provide access to an interior of the second compartment.

11. The convertible suitcase bed system of claim 7 wherein: the mattress pad has an inflated configuration and deflated configuration; andwhen the mattress pad is in the deflated configuration, the first compartment can be rotated, about the hinge, at least 180° relative to the second compartment.

12. The convertible suitcase bed system of claim 7 wherein the first compartment and second compartment are rotatable about the hinge such that the first compartment and the second compartment may be positioned relative to each other to form a closed position of the housing.

13. The convertible suitcase bed system of claim 7 wherein: the first compartment and second compartment are rotatable about the hinge such that the first compartment and the second compartment may be positioned relative to each other to form an open configuration of the housing; andin the open configuration, the housing has dimensions of 38 inches×6 inches×27 inches.

14. A convertible suitcase bed system comprising: a first storage area;a second storage area;a hinge that allows the first storage area to rotate relative to the second storage area; anda sleeping surface comprising: a first section that forms a first side of the first storage area; anda second section that forms a second side of the second storage area.

15. The convertible suitcase bed system of claim 14 wherein: the first section is detachable from the first storage area; andthe second section is detachable from the second storage area.

16. The convertible suitcase bed system of claim 14 wherein the first storage area is rotatable about the hinge, relative to the second storage area, from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

17. The convertible suitcase bed system of claim 16 wherein: in the open configuration, a first thickness of the first section of the sleeping surface and a second thickness of the second section of the sleeping surface are positioned side-by-side; andin the closed configuration, a first area of the first section of the sleeping surface is positioned touching a second area of the second section of the sleeping surface.

18. The convertible suitcase bed system of claim 14, wherein, the first storage area is accessible via a first closable opening in the first outer wall and the second storage area is accessible via a second closable opening in the second outer wall.

19. The convertible suitcase bed system of claim 18, further comprising: a first zipper mechanism that is configured to open and close the first closable opening; anda second zipper mechanism that is configured to open and close the second closable opening.