CONVERTIBLE TREKKING POLE AND TENT AND METHODS OF USE

Abstract

A convertible trek tent assembly whereby the device is switchable between a walking configuration for use as a trekking pole and a tenting configuration whereby a deployable tent wrapped around the trekking pole in the walking configuration is unwrapped and used for shelter. The device comprises a frame assembly that provides structural support to the erected tent, but wherein leg components of the frame assembly articulate with a pivot hub and can fold against a main pole with the deployable tent wrapped about the trekking pole when ambulating. A handle is positioned at one end of the device for grasp by a user, and a stake is positioned at an opposed end for contact with a ground surface when trekking. One or more pole locks control the telescoping relationship between a main pole and extension poles.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention. The invention relates generally to trekking poles and tents, and more particularly to trekking poles that quickly convert to serve other camping purposes.

Description of Related Art. Trekking poles are well known in the art as an aid to hiking. They are typically used to help hikers maintain balance and overall safety while hiking over uneven or slippery ground. Tents are also well known in the art. Tents used by hikers require the hiker to carry not only the body of the tent in a backpack or other carrying device, but also to carry an assortment of tent poles. The weight of these items add to the backpack load and it also reduces the space in the backpack for other important goods. In addition, with so many items typically stuffed in a backpack, pulling out a tent and stakes is usually not convenient.

What is needed are alternative tenting options that don't rely on stuffing a tent and tent poles in a backpack for the purpose of rapid deployment and retraction of a tent.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Disclosed herein is a convertible trekking pole and tent and methods of use that satisfy the tenting needs identified earlier. The convertible trekking pole and tent is in some cases referred herein simply as a trek tent assembly.

In one form, a trek tent assembly is convertible between a tenting configuration and a walking (trekking) configuration.

In one form, the trek tent assembly comprises a deployable tent that is wrapped around a frame assembly.

In one form, within the frame assembly, is a horizontal pole assembly which can be telescopically adjusted in length and used as a trekking pole during hikes.

In one form, the horizontal pole assembly comprises a main pole, and one or more of a first extension pole and a second extension pole.

In one form, the frame assembly comprises the horizontal pole assembly and legs (i.e. major leg, minor leg) that are deployable to support the horizontal pole assembly in a tenting configuration.

In one form, in a tenting configuration, the horizontal pole assembly spans generally horizontally across the top of the deployable tent to support it from a ground surface via retractable legs.

In one form, the frame assembly comprises a main pole with a first extension pole extending from one of the main pole ends and a second extension pole extending from the other main pole end.

In one form, at least a portion of the extension poles are telescopically housed within the main pole's sliding cavity.

In one form, only a main pole and one extension pole are utilized in a horizontal pole assembly.

In one form, a pole lock serves as a locking interface between the main pole and an extension pole.

In one form, the pole lock comprises a substantially cylindrical minor pole cavity defined by a minor pole face that is sized to seat an extension outer face therein.

In one form, a pair of sliding hubs slide along an elongate axis along the main pole. In some embodiments, the sliding hub can also slide partially along a respective first extension pole for one, and second extension pole for the other sliding hub.

In one form, the sliding hub comprises a cylindrical hub body with a central hub aperture extending therethrough for housing a main pole and/or extension pole therein.

In one form, a finger boss extending as an outwardly enlarged portion of the cylindrical hub body provides a surface for the user to apply finger pressure when attempting to deploy the legs of the frame assembly.

In one form, seated within the finger boss is a pivot anchor with a pivot pin configured for seating in a first pivot hole of a minor leg to provide a controlled pivot therebetween the minor leg and pivot anchor.

In one form, a lock finger boss extends from one end of the hub body parallel to axis A and is configured to secure the sliding hub in a designated position when the lock finger boss is captured under a lock tab. In this case, an outward extension on the lock finger boss is fixed from movement against the side tab face of the lock tab.

In one form, one or more sliding hubs are retracted toward the midline of the main pole resulting in the major legs being retracted inward in a walking configuration.

In one form, the lock tab is folded down over the sliding hub thereby simultaneously locking the sliding hub in position resulting in the major legs being deployed and locked for use in the tenting configuration.

In one form, the frame assembly also comprises a handle stake extending from opposing ends of the first extension pole and second extension pole. The handle stake comprises a disc shaped pivot hub extending radially from the handle stake. In some embodiments, the pivot hub maintains other profiles such as triangular.

In one form, a plurality of spaced hub windows extend into the pivot hub and include pin recesses for receiving and pivotably holding an end of the major legs using the upper pivot hole of the major legs.

In one form, the handle stake comprises a pair of elongate stakes extending in opposite directions from the pivot hub of the handle stake.

In one form, one of the elongate stakes is fixedly seated in the extension inner cavity.

In one form, the opposing elongate stake extends from the pivot hub in a direction away from the main pole.

In one form, at the bottom (inferior end in walking configuration) of the horizontal pole assembly, the stake terminates in a stake point which contacts the ground when ambulating. At the top of the horizontal pole assembly, the stake extends upwards and is fitted with a handle slid over top of the stake which is used as a handle when in the walking configuration.

In one form, at the handle end, the handle stake is absent. Instead, a pivot hub having a central port and a handle are fit directly over the end of the extension pole creating the same functional arrangement.

In one form, the frame assembly comprises a pair of major legs that are deployable from the hub windows of the handle stakes.

In one form, the major legs comprise an elongate major leg body. At one end is the upper pivot hole used to pivotably articulate in the hub window. A lower pivot hole extends through the major leg a few inches from the upper pivot hole. The lower pivot hole articulates with a first pivot hole at one end of a minor leg and secured with pivot pin.

In one form, the major legs terminate in a foot which can assume a variety of forms.

In one form, the foot can be in the shape of a narrowed down portion of the major leg body.

In one form, the minor leg pivotably extends between the lower pivot hole on the major leg and the pivot anchor of the sliding hub and is secured by pivot pin.

In one form, the minor leg also comprises an elongate minor leg body comprising a first pivot hole at one end of the minor leg body and a second pivot hole at the opposing end of the minor leg. This linkage arrangement of the major legs, minor legs, main pole, and extension poles provide a rigid erect locked tent frame when tenting, and collapses to be a portable frame when trekking.

In one form, a deployable tent in the trek tent assembly has in the tenting configuration, a generally elongate triangle form made of a light tent fabric. Sections of the fabric are typically sewn together and in some cases are sealed against leakage.

In one form, the trek tent assembly comprises a substantially rectangular first roof section and a substantially rectangular and opposing second roof section positioned at acute angles to each other.

In one form, one or more of the trek tent sections are continuations of another section and are fold lines rather than joined by stitching.

In one form, the first roof section and second roof section are joined at their opposing ends by a first end section and a second end section which are substantially triangular in shape.

In one form, a substantially rectangular floor section joins the remaining edges of the end sections and roof sections. Together, inner faces of these sections define a shelter cavity in which a user can use to find shelter from outside elements.

In one form, extending between the top edge of the deployable tent and main poles and the first and second extension poles are a plurality of tent clamp assemblies to secure the tent sections upwards thereby maintaining the shelter cavity.

In one form, the tent clamp assembly comprises a tent tether secured to one or more of the roof or other tent sections. The tent clamp assembly comprises a tent clamp that has an open hook end to hook around one of the pole sections and/or major legs. The other end of the tent clamp is fixed to an end of the tent tether.

In one form, a first window extends through at least one of the roof sections to provide user access into the shelter cavity. In one form, the perimeter of the first window comprises a first window edge which can comprise a window release.

In one form, a window flap is primarily in the form of a flap screen or a flap section of tent material or a combination of both.

In one form, a second window also with a second window edge is present on an opposed side of the tent.

In one form, a joiner section can be used. The joiner section is substantially rectangular on top and triangular on the sides. A joiner release can be present. Trek tent assemblies positioned side by side can use the joiner release to join the joiner section to the roof section of the adjacent tent thereby creating a sealed cojoined shelter cavity.

In one form, at the bottom corners of the deployable tent is a ribbon capture. The ribbon capture comprises a ribbon (i.e. nylon webbing) which on a tent end is secured to one of the tent sections.

In one form, the other end of the ribbon capture, the buckle end, is secured to a buckle segment which releasably mates to a fly buckle on a deployable fly if a deployable fly is used.

In one form, inset within the ribbon capture is a foot receiver for releasably holding the foot of a major leg thereby securing the frame assembly in an upright position at the four corners of the deployable tent.

In one form, a deployable fly comprises a first fly section and an opposing second fly section. A fly restraint extends from the four corners of the deployable fly. The fly restraint comprises a fly ribbon with one end secured typically by stitching to one end of the fly section, and the other end of the fly ribbon secured to fly buckle which is the mating half to the buckle segment. When snapped together, the deployable fly remains secured to the trek tent assembly.

In one form, a flexible cap is utilized on each end of the trek tent assembly to keep the deployable tent bundled when in the walking configuration.

In one form, the flexible cap is manufactured of a flexible polymer such as rubber.

In one form, transitioning from the walking configuration to the tenting configuration comprises the flexible cap being peeled from the deployable tent until it flips away from the deployable tent.

In one form, the flexible cap is flipped in the opposite direction to recapture the rewrapped deployable tent around the poles in the walking configuration.

In one form, the narrower end of the cap body terminates in a restraint face which is sized for a stretched fit over a respective stake or pole boss.

In one form, at the handle end, the restraint face is positioned between the handle and the pivot hub.

In one form, the pivot hub comprises an activation button for releasing a block assembly which secures a major leg in a walking configuration or a tenting configuration.

In one form, a lower basket is utilized at the stake end to limit the depth in which the stake end can sink into the ground.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become more readily appreciated when considered in connection with the following detailed description and appended drawings, wherein each drawing is according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein, and wherein:

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of a trek tent assembly in a tenting configuration on a ground surfacee;

FIG. 2 depicts a partially exploded perspective view of the trek tent assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view of the trek tent assembly of FIG. 1 with first fly section removed;

FIG. 4 depicts a perspective end view of the trek tent assembly of FIG. 1 with first fly section removed;

FIG. 5 depicts a perspective view of a trek tent assembly with a joiner section deployed;

FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of a pair of trek tent assemblies joined together using a joiner section;

FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of a trek tent assembly in walking configuration

FIG. 8 depicts a partial perspective view of a flexible cap for securing or releasing the deployable tent;

FIG. 9 depicts a partial perspective view of the handle of the trek tent assembly in a tenting configuration;

FIG. 10 depicts a partial perspective view of the stake point of the trek tent assembly in a tenting configuration;

FIG. 11 depicts a partial perspective view of a leg folding mechanism of the trek tent assembly with deployable tent removed and legs substantially folded;

FIG. 12 depicts a partial perspective view of a partially folded leg folding mechanism of the trek tent assembly;

FIG. 13 depicts a partial perspective view of a fully deployed leg folding mechanism on one end of a trek tent assembly;

FIG. 14 depicts an exploded perspective view of a deployed leg folding mechanism of a trek tent assembly;

FIG. 15 depicts a partial perspective view of a foot of a major leg body as it is about to be seated in a foot receiver;

FIG. 16 depicts a partial perspective view of the foot of FIG. 15 seated in the foot receiver;

FIG. 17 depicts a partial perspective view of a cylindrical hub body and pole lock in a separated configuration;

FIG. 18 depicts a partial perspective view of the cylindrical hub body of FIG. 17 engaged with the pole lock body;

FIG. 19 depicts a partial perspective view of a lock tab folded down against a lock finger boss;

FIG. 20 depicts an exploded perspective view of a frame assembly including a main pole, extension poles, and legs of a trek tent assembly;

FIG. 20B depicts a partial exploded perspective view of a pivot hub and first extension pole;

FIG. 20C depicts a partial exploded perspective view of a pivot hub and first extension pole and handle;

FIG. 21 depicts a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a frame assembly of a trek tent assembly in a tenting configuration with deployable tent removed;

FIG. 22 depicts a perspective view of the frame assembly of FIG. 21 in a walking configuration with deployable tent removed;

FIG. 23 depicts a partial perspective view of the stake end of the frame assembly of FIG. 21 with major legs locked tenting mode;

FIG. 24 depicts a partial perspective view of the stake end of the frame assembly of FIG. 21 with a major leg in a released mode;

FIG. 25 depicts a partial perspective view of the stake end of the frame assembly of FIG. 21 with one major leg folded although still in released mode (activation button depressed);

FIG. 26 depicts a partial perspective view of the stake end of the frame assembly of FIG. 21 with one major leg folded and the other in a locked tenting mode;

FIG. 27 depicts a perspective view of a pivot hub with pivot collar and activation button of the frame assembly of FIG. 21;

FIG. 28 depicts a cross-sectional perspective view of the pivot hub of FIG. 27;

FIG. 29 depicts a partial perspective view of the handle end of the frame assembly of FIG. 21 with both major legs in a locked tenting mode;

FIG. 30 depicts a partial perspective view of the handle end of the frame assembly of FIG. 21 with one major leg folded in a locked walking mode.

FIG. 31 depicts a flow diagram of a method for switching a trek tent assembly from a walking configuration to a tenting configuration, and from a tenting configuration back to a walking configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SELECTED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Select embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the Figures. Like numerals indicate like or corresponding elements throughout the several views and wherein various embodiments are separated by letters (i.e. 100, 100B, 100C). The terminology used in the description presented herein is not intended to be interpreted in any limited or restrictive way, simply because it is being utilized in conjunction with detailed description of certain specific embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, embodiments of the invention may include several novel features, no single one of which is solely responsible for its desirable attributes or which is essential to practicing the invention described herein.

FIG. 1 depicts a tenting configuration of a trek tent assembly 100 resting on a ground surface. FIG. 7 on the other hand, depicts a walking configuration of the trek tent assembly 100 as used when walking/trekking wherein a deployable tent 173 is wrapped around frame assembly 101 which can be adjusted in length as used as a trekking pole during hikes. The trek tent assembly 100 comprises a frame assembly 101, and a deployable tent 173.

In the tenting configuration, horizontal pole assembly 104 spans generally horizontally across the top of the deployable tent 173 (FIG. 2) to support it from a ground surface via major legs 136. The horizontal pole assembly 104 comprises a main pole 102 with a first extension pole 109 extending from one of the main pole ends 103 and in some cases, a second extension pole 110 extending from the other main pole end 103 (FIG. 14). Having a smaller diameter, at least a portion of the extension poles are telescopically housed within the main pole's sliding cavity 107 that is defined by a main pole inner face 106. The main poles and extension poles in this embodiment are generally cylindrical however they can assume other profiles known in the art. The main pole 102 comprises a main pole body 105 (FIG. 20) that in this embodiment comprises a round tube profile. A main pole outer face 108 which here is generally cylindrical, defines the outer face of the main pole.

The first and second extension poles (109,110) comprise an extension pole body 116 that again is generally cylindrical in this embodiment. The extension poles comprise a mid-end 111 that faces the middle of the main pole 102, and a terminal end 112 that faces away from the main pole 102. An extension inner face 113 defines an extension inner cavity 114 whereas extension outer face 115 defines the outer shape of the respective extension pole.

A pole lock 125 (FIGS. 17-19) serves as a locking interface between the main pole 102 and extension poles. Therefore, the sliding position between the main pole 102 and first extension pole 109 can be selectively locked by the pole lock 125 at a desired location. Similarly, the sliding position between the main pole 102 and the second extension pole 110 can be selectively locked by a second pole lock. The pole lock comprises a generally cylindrical pole lock body 124. Within the pole lock body is a clamp recess 132 that provides a means for the pole lock body 124 to reduce the diameter of the minor pole cavity 131 when needed to clamp down on an extension pole. A hinge anchor 126 is formed in pole lock body 124 and provides housing for a pivot pin 121. A lock tab 127 comprises a lock tab pivot 128 also configured for housing the pivot pin whereas the lock tab can pivot between a released mode and locked mode causing locking and unlocking of the pole lock on the extension pole via a cammed surface on the lock tab.

In this embodiment, pole lock 125 comprises a substantially cylindrical minor pole cavity 131 defined by a minor pole face 130 that is sized to seat an extension outer face therein. The lock tab 127 comprising a lock tab pivot 128 at its base pivots with hinge anchor 126 of the pole lock body 124. Lock tab pivot 128 is cammed such that it reduces the minor pole cavity when pushed down. Lock tab 127 comprises opposed activation faces 135 that the user can use to lock and unlock the pole lock with finger force. Lock tab 127 also comprises a side tab face 134 that when locked is able to capture the sliding hub 117 to restrain its position. In this embodiment, the lock tab is arced to wrap around the cylindrical body of pole lock 125 to maintain a low profile in the locked position. An outer pole face 133 of the pole lock body 124 defines the outer surface of the generally cylindrical pole lock 125.

A pair of sliding hubs 117 slide along axis A along the main pole 102 and a respective first extension pole 109 for one, and second extension pole 110 for the other sliding hub. The sliding hub 117 comprises a cylindrical hub body 118 with a central hub aperture 123 extending therethrough for housing a pole therein. A finger boss 119 extending as an outwardly enlarged portion of the cylindrical hub body 118 provides a surface for the user to apply finger pressure when attempting to deploy the legs of the frame assembly 101. Seated within the finger boss 119 is a pivot anchor 120 with pivot pin 121 configured for seating in first pivot hole 146 of a minor leg 144 to provide a controlled pivot therebetween the components. A lock finger boss 122 extends perpendicular from one end of the hub body 118 that runs parallel to axis A. The lock finger boss is configured to secure the sliding hub in a designated position when the lock finger boss is captured under lock tab 127 and an outward extension on the boss is fixed from movement against side tab face 134 as depicted in FIG. 19. FIGS. 17-19 depict various positions of sliding hub 117 whereas FIG. 17 depicts the sliding hub retracted toward the midline of the main pole (major legs retracted inward for walking configuration), FIG. 18 depicting the sliding hub 117 engaged with the pole lock 125, and FIG. 19 wherein the lock tab is folded down over the sliding hub thereby simultaneously locking the sliding hub 117 in position (major legs deployed and locked for tenting configuration) and locking the pole lock 125.

The frame assembly 101, in this embodiment, also comprises a handle stake 208 (FIG. 20) extending from opposing ends of the first extension pole 109 and second extension pole 110. The handle stake 208 comprises a disc or triangular shaped pivot hub 209 extending radially from the handle stake 208. A plurality of spaced hub windows 210 extend into the pivot hub and include pin recesses 211 for receiving and pivotably holding by pivot pins 121 an end of the major legs 136 (upper pivot hole 138) therein. The handle stake comprises a pair of elongate stakes 212 extending in opposite directions from the pivot hub 209 of the handle stake 208.

One of the elongate stakes 212 is fixedly seated in extension inner cavity 114 against terminal end 112 of one of the extension poles along axis A. The opposing elongate stake 212 extends from the pivot hub away from the main pole. At the bottom of horizontal pole assembly 104 (in a walking configuration), stake 212 can terminate in a stake point 213 which contacts the ground when ambulating. In some embodiments, the stake point is interchangeable to accommodate differ terrains. In some embodiments, the stake point is in the form of a rod extending from the main pole or extension pole, whereas in other embodiments the stake point is in the form of an end plug of the main pole or extension pole. At the top of the horizontal pole assembly 104, stake 212 (also known as a pole boss 214) extends upwards and is fitted with a handle 150 slid over top of the stake which is used as a handle when in the walking configuration. As an alternative, the pivot hub is integrated into the bottom of the handle 150 as depicted in FIG. 20B and pressed over the extension pole. In yet another alternative, the pivot hub is separately pressed over the extension pole through pivot hub portal 215 followed by the handle 150 which is also pressed on.

Handle 150, in a preferred embodiment, comprises a generally cylindrical handle body 151 (FIG. 7,20) comprising an inner handle face 153 defining a handle cavity 154 configured for seating pole boss 214 therein. An outer handle face 152 encircles the outside of the handle 150. An optional handle cap 155 caps off the end of the handle. A grip texture 156 can extend from the outer handle face 152 to improve grip on the handle. In some embodiments, the handle comprises a light with integrated battery which can be pivotable. The handle can also integrate a USB output to charge devices and/or a led flashlight. In a trekking/walking configuration, the light is directed towards the direction of trekking, whereas in a tenting configuration, the light is directed into the tent through an opening flap in the corner of the tent fabric.

Frame assembly 101 further comprises a pair of major legs 136 (FIG. 13-14) that are deployable from the hub windows 210 of the handle stakes 208. The major legs 136 (FIG. 14,20) comprise an elongate major leg body 137. At one end is the upper pivot hole 138 used to pivotably articulate in the hub window. A lower pivot hole 139 extends through the major leg a few inches from the upper pivot hole. This lower pivot hole 139 articulates with a first pivot hole 146 at one end of a minor leg 144. A pivot pin 121 extends therebetween these pivot holes while pivotably securing the two legs together. Major legs 136 terminate in a foot 140 which can assume a variety of forms. For example, as depicted in FIG. 15, foot 140 is in the form of a sphere that is reduced in diameter compared to the major leg body 137 for securing to a part of the deployable tent. In other embodiments, the foot can be in the shape of a narrowed down portion of the major leg body.

Minor leg 144 pivotably extends between lower pivot hole 139 on major leg 136 and pivot anchor 120 of the sliding hub 117 (FIG. 14,17). A pivot pin 121 secures the minor leg in the pivot anchor. Minor leg 144 also comprises an elongate minor leg body 145 comprising a first pivot hole 146 at one end of the minor leg body and a second pivot hole 147 at the opposing end of the minor leg. This linkage arrangement of the major legs, minor legs, main pole, and extension poles provide a rigid erect locked tent frame when tenting, and collapsed portable frame when trekking.

FIGS. 2-6 depict various sides of the trek tent assembly 100 in the tenting configuration which has a generally elongate triangle 174 form made of a light tent fabric such as rip stop nylon for example. Sections of the fabric are typically sewn together and in some cases are sealed against leakage. The trek tent assembly comprises a substantially rectangular first roof section 175 and a substantially rectangular and opposing second roof section 176 positioned at acute angles to each other. In some embodiments, one or more of the trek tent sections are continuations of another section and are simply fold lines rather than joined by stitching. The first roof section 175 and second roof section 176 are joined at their opposing ends by a first end section 177 and a second end section 178 which here are substantially triangular in shape. Optionally, a substantially rectangular floor section 179 joins the remaining edges of the end sections and roof sections as depicted in FIG. 2. Together, inner faces 181 of these sections define a shelter cavity 180 in which a user can use to find shelter therein from outside elements. Outer faces 182 of these sections face away from the shelter cavity.

Extending between the top edge of the deployable tent and main poles 102 and first and second extension poles 109,110 are a plurality of tent clamp assemblies 183 (FIG. 10) to secure the tent sections upwards thereby maintaining the shelter cavity 180. The tent clamp assembly 183 in this embodiment comprises a tent tether 184 secured to one or more of the roof sections with a tent clamp 185 that has an open hook end to hook around one of the pole sections while fixed to an end of the tent tether 184. Tent clamp assemblies 183 can also be utilized to releasably secure other portions of the deployable tent 173 to the major legs 136 as depicted in FIGS. 5 and 9.

A first window 186 (FIG. 4) extends through at least one of the roof sections to provide user access into the shelter cavity. The perimeter of the first window 186 comprises a first window edge 187 which can comprise a window release 190 (i.e. zipper, Velcro, magnets) in the event a window flap 191 is present in the event closeable access is desired. In some embodiments, window flap 191 is primarily in the form of a flap screen 192 (to keep bugs out) or a flap section 193 (tent material) or a combination of both. When both are present, a flap release 194 (i.e. zipper, Velcro, magnets) can be used to lower the flap section 193 but retain the screen for air flow with insect protection.

Some embodiments include a second window 188 also with a second window edge 189 on an opposed side of the tent. In some embodiments, a joiner section 195 is used (FIG. 5). Here the joiner section is substantially rectangular on top and triangular on the sides. A joiner release 196 can be present such as for example, as zipper or Velcro or magnets. When a pair of trek tent assemblies are positioned side by side, the joiner release 196 can be used to join joiner section 195 to the roof section of the adjacent tent thereby creating a sealed cojoined shelter cavity 180 as depicted in FIG. 6.

At the bottom corners of the deployable tent is a ribbon capture 165 as depicted in FIGS. 15-16. The ribbon capture 165 comprises a ribbon 166 (i.e. nylon webbing) which on a tent end 167 is secured to one of the tent sections typically by stitching. The other end of the ribbon capture 165, the buckle end 168, is secured to a buckle segment 169 which releasably mates to fly buckle 205 on a deployable fly 200 if a deployable fly is used. Inset within ribbon capture 165 is a foot receiver 170 for releasably holding foot 140 of major leg 136 thereby securing the frame assembly 101 in an upright position at the four corners of deployable tent 173.

Deployable fly 200 (FIG. 2, exploded view) comprises a first fly section 201 and an opposing second fly section 202 as depicted in the top of FIG. 2. A fly restraint 203 extends from the four corners of the deployable fly 200. Fly restraint 203 comprises a fly ribbon 204 with one end secured typically by stitching to one end of the fly section, and the other end of the fly ribbon 204 secured to fly buckle 205 which is the mating half to buckle segment 169. When snapped together, the deployable fly 200 remains secured to the trek tent assembly 100. In addition, to brace against wind, stake loops can be utilized at the base of the tent to be held down by ground stakes.

A flexible cap 158 (FIG. 7-10) can be utilized on each end of the trek tent assembly 100 to keep the deployable tent 173 bundled about the poles when in the walking configuration as depicted in FIG. 7. One or more bundling straps 197 can be utilized to assist with bundling using Velcro for example for quick release. Flexible cap 158 is manufactured of a flexible polymer such as rubber. In transition from the walking configuration to the tenting configuration, the flexible cap 158 is easily peeled from the deployable tent until it flips away from the tent as depicted in FIGS. 9-10 in a tenting configuration. The flexible cap is flipped in the opposite direction to recapture the rewrapped deployable tent in the walking configuration. The flexible cap 158 comprises a narrow dome like cap body 159 comprising a first cap face 160 and a second cap face 161 (FIG. 11). The first cap face 160 faces outward or inward depending on which direction the flexible cap 158 is flipped. The wider end of the cap body terminates in a circular end face 162. The narrower end of the cap body 159 terminates in a restraint face 163 which is sized for a stretched fit over respective stake 212 or pole boss 214. At the handle end, restraint face 163 is positioned between handle 150 and pivot hub 209. At the stake point 213, restraint face 163 is positioned over the stake adjacent the pivot hub 209.

Depicted in FIGS. 21-30 is a preferred embodiment of a frame assembly 101B for use in a trek tent assembly. A deployable tent 173 such as introduced previously can be used with this frame assembly. As before, this embodiment utilizes a plurality of retractable major legs 136B which articulate with a pivot hub 209B. As noted in FIG. 22, a pivot hub 209B is located at a handle end and stake end of frame assembly 101B. In this embodiment, a first extension pole 109B engages in a telescoping relationship with main pole 102B with the overall length of the two fixedly adjustable by the use of pole lock 125B. For example, in a tenting configuration as depicted in FIG. 21, pole lock 125B is locked with the two poles in an elongated relationship, whereas in the walking configuration of FIG. 22, pole lock 125B is locked with the two poles having greater overlap. In some cases, a second extension pole can be used, typically along with a second pole lock as depicted in earlier embodiments. Again, FIGS. 21-30 are depicted to illustrate an embodiment of a frame assembly absent the deployable tent 173B.

FIG. 22 further depicts major legs 136B folded against main pole 102B and first extension pole 109B. Note that this embodiment is absent of the minor legs utilized in previous embodiments due to greater control over the major legs 136B within pivot hub 209B. As noted in the figures, one pivot hub 209B with control over two of the major legs is utilized at the handle end, and one pivot hub with control over two of the major legs is utilized at the stake end of horizontal pole assembly 104B. In this embodiment, pivot hub 209B has a generally disc shaped pivot hub body 216B that here is in the form of a rounded triangle defined by a generally flat first face 227B with an opposed generally flat second face 228B. The rounded triangle profile of the pivot hubs are defined by radial face 229B, however, it is recognized this profile can be changed without functional loss. Extending between first face 227B and second face 228B is pivot hub portal 215B defined by hub portal face 217B configured in rounded profile to house the respective main pole or extension poles therein as depicted in FIG. 22. Notched into first face 227B and radial face 229B of pivot hub body 216B is hub window 210B defined by hub window face 218B. Hub window 210B opens to first face 227B and radial face 229B. Opposing hub window faces 218B defining hub window 210B are sufficiently narrow to provide pivoting side support to pivot collar 237B from which a major leg 136B extends from. An additional hub window face 218B stops the pivot collar 237B once it fully extends from pivot hub 209B thereby supporting respective major leg 136B once it is substantially parallel to first face 227B in the tenting mode.

Integrated into pivot hub 209B is a first block assembly 225B for locking an associated major leg 136B in a walking configuration or in a tenting configuration, whereas also integrated into pivot hub 209B is a second block assembly 226B for locking the other associated major leg 136B in a walking or tenting configuration. FIG. 28 depicts a cross-sectional view of first block assembly 225B and second block assembly 226B. Here, the block assemblies comprise a spring pin 220B which in this embodiment is substantially ‘J’ shaped. The spring pin translates within activation cavity 223B between a position in which it is blocking movement of the respective pivot collar 237B and a position in which it is not blocking the pivot collar thereby allowing it to pivot. A spring 221B working on a portion of spring pin 220B, biases the spring pin to a blocked position. An activation button 224B is elevated through radial face 229B and is operable with finger pressure, to move spring pin 220B out of the way to allow pivoting of pivot collar 237B. Releasing activation button 224B causes the spring pin 220B to be biased back to a blocking position where it secures the pivot collar 237B (and associated major leg 136B) to be held in either a walking configuration or tenting configuration once the user moves the major leg to the preferred position. A leg receiver 234B can be used to help seat the major legs in a walking configuration. As noted in FIG. 29, leg receiver 234B is substantially ring shaped and encircles the main pole or extension pole. In this embodiment, leg receiver 234B comprises a plurality of radially extending receiver arms 235B which between them defines a receiver seat 236B in which a major leg can be seated. The receiver seat can be resilient such that a major leg can be popped in and out of position with a user's finger pressure. Extending through radial face 229B and across hub window 210B is pin recess 211B. Housed within pin recess 211B is pivot pin 222B which also extends through pivot collar 237B to control pivotal movement of the pivot collar 237B about the pivot pin within hub window 210B. Note that hub windows 210B at the stake end and handle end face each other whereby when the major legs are folded, they fold within the space between each pivot hub.

Positioned at the stake end (note stake 212B) just below the lowest pivot hub 209B is a lower basket which assists in preventing the stake end from sinking too deeply in a ground surface when trekking. In this embodiment, lower basket 230B has a substantially umbrella shaped basket body 233B with a basket central port 232B for housing main pole 102B or one of the extension poles therein. One or more basket windows 231B can extend through the lower basket for weight reduction. At the handle end of horizontal pole assembly 104B is a handle 150B for grasping by the user during trekking. Handle 150B has an outer handle face that is curved to better fit to the user's hand and as before comprises a handle cavity for seating therein a portion of the main pole 102B or one of the extension poles or a pole boss. The frame assembly depicted in FIG. 21 shares many of the same features as previous embodiments. One skilled in the art will recognize that the various features depicted can be added, subtracted, and otherwise combined into embodiments falling within scope of this disclosure.

In one embodiment, a method for converting a trek tent assembly from a walking configuration to a tenting configuration for obtaining shelter comprises the following steps. Obtaining a trek tent assembly comprising an adjustable length telescoping horizontal pole assembly having a handle on one end and a stake on an opposing end, with two pair of spaced legs depolyable from a pivot hub at the handle end and from a pivot hub at the stake end, and having a deployable tent wrapped and secured with binders about the main pole (250). Removing the binders and unwrapping the deployable tent from the horizontal pole assembly (252). Extending and locking the telescoping length of the main pole with respect to the extension poles (254) for a tenting length. Deploying a first and second set of legs away from the main pole (256). Supporting the frame assembly on the ends of the legs on a ground surface (258). Securing the leg ends in ribbons at edges of the floor section to complete the tenting configuration (260). Optionally, securing a deployable fly over the horizontal pole assembly and securing the fly at the ribbons extending from the deployable tent (262). The ribbons can optionally be staked to the ground surface. Climbing through a first window into a shelter cavity to obtain shelter (264).

In one embodiment, the method for converting a trek tent assembly from a tenting configuration to a walking configuration comprises the following steps. Climbing through the first window out of the shelter cavity (266) and removing any stakes to the ground surface if present. Releasing the deployable fly from ribbons if used (268). Releasing the leg ends from the ribbons (270). Compressing and locking the telescoping length of the main pole with respect to the extension poles (272). Retracting the first and second set of legs towards the main pole (274). Wrapping the deployable tent around the horizontal pole assembly (276). Binding the deployable tent about the horizontal pole assembly (278). Then utilizing the trek tent assembly to walk in a walking configuration (280).

It is noted that the terms “substantially” and “about” and “generally” may be utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. These terms are also utilized herein to represent the degree by which a quantitative representation may vary from a stated reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject matter at issue.

The foregoing invention has been described in accordance with the relevant legal standards, thus the description is exemplary rather than limiting in nature. Variations and modifications to the disclosed embodiment may become apparent to those skilled in the art and fall within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A trek tent assembly comprising: a frame assembly;a deployable tent operable to provide shelter when erected;said frame assembly comprising a main pole;said frame assembly comprising one or more extension poles in telescoping relationship with said main pole;a pair of spaced pivot hubs;said pivot hubs comprising a pivot hub portal for disposing therein at least one of said main pole and said extension poles;a plurality of legs;said plurality of legs articulating at one end with said pivot hub portal;said plurality of legs switchable between a walking configuration and a tenting configuration wherein in a walking configuration said legs are folded against said main pole, and wherein in a tenting configuration said legs are extended away from said main pole to support said deployable tent;a handle;a stake;said handle positioned at one end of said frame assembly and operable for grasping by a user when trekking; and,said stake positioned opposite said handle at one end of said frame assembly and operable for engaging a ground surface when trekking.

2. The trek tent assembly of claim 1 further comprising: one of said pair of spaced pivot hubs positioned adjacent said handle;one of said pair of spaced pivot hubs positioned adjacent said stake; and wherein said plurality of legs fold inward against said main pole between said pair of spaced pivot hubs in said walking configuration.

3. The trek tent assembly of claim 1 further comprising: one of said pair of spaced pivot hubs positioned adjacent said handle;one of said pair of spaced pivot hubs positioned adjacent said stake; and wherein said plurality of legs extend outward away from said main pole in a tenting configuration.

4. The trek tent assembly of claim 1 further comprising: a pole lock; and,wherein said telescoping relationship between said main pole and said extension poles can be fixed utilizing said pole lock.

5. The trek tent assembly of claim 4 further comprising: a lock tab;said lock tab extending from said pole lock; and,wherein activation of said lock tab can switch said pole lock between locked and unlocked positions.

6. The trek tent assembly of claim 1 wherein said deployable tent further comprises a deployable fly.

7. The trek tent assembly of claim 1 wherein said deployable tent further comprises: a floor section forming the floor of the deployable tent;a first roof section;a second roof section;a first end section;a second end section to form a shelter cavity; and,wherein said first roof section, said second roof section, and said floor section are joined at seams to form a triangle; and,wherein said first end section and said second end section enclose respective ends of said triangle.

8. The trek tent assembly of claim 7 wherein said seam at said first roof section and said second roof section is supported by said main pole and one or more of said extension poles.

9. The trek tent assembly of claim 7 wherein at least one of said first roof section and said second roof section comprises a first window operable for gaining access into a shelter cavity.

10. The trek tent assembly of claim 9 further comprising: a joiner section;wherein said joiner section is used to join a first window on two adjacent deployable tents.

11. The trek tent assembly of claim 1 further comprising: a minor leg;a sliding hub;one end of said minor leg pivotably connected to said sliding hub; and,the other end of said minor leg pivotably connected to said pivot hub.

12. The trek tent assembly of claim 1 further comprising: a ribbon extending from a plurality of corners of said deployable tent;said ribbon comprising a foot receiver extending through said ribbon;said legs terminating in a foot; and,wherein said foot is seated within said foot receiver of said deployable tent.

13. The trek tent assembly of claim 1 further comprising: a flexible cap; and,wherein said flexible cap is utilized to secure said deployable tent against said frame assembly in a walking configuration.

14. The trek tent assembly of claim 1 further comprising: a spring pin;wherein said spring pin locks said legs in a locked walking mode or a locked tenting mode.

15. The trek tent assembly of claim 14 further comprising: an activation button;said activation button extending from said pivot hub; and,wherein depressing said activation button releases said legs from a locked walking mode or locked tenting mode.

16. The trek tent assembly of claim 1 further comprising: a lower basket operable to limit the depth the stake end can submerge in a ground surface;wherein said lower basket is positioned below a pivot hub at a stake end of the trek tent assembly.

17. The trek tent assembly of claim 1 further comprising: a leg receiver; and,wherein said leg receiver comprises a receiver seat for resiliently holding one or more of said legs in a walking configuration.

18. A method for converting a trek tent assembly from a walking configuration to a tenting configuration comprising the steps of: obtaining a trek tent assembly comprising an adjustable length between a telescoping main pole and one or more extension poles and having a handle on one end and a stake on an opposing end, with two pair of spaced legs deployable from a pivot hub at the handle end and from a pivot hub at the stake end, and having a deployable tent wrapped and secured with binders about the main pole;removing the binders and unwrapping the deployable tent from the main pole and extension pole;extending and locking the telescoping length of main pole with respect to the extension pole;deploying a first and second set of legs away from the main pole;supporting the main pole and extension poles on the ends of the legs on a ground surface; and,securing the leg ends in ribbons at edges of the floor section of the deployable tent.

19. The method of claim 18 further comprising the step of: securing a deployable fly over the main pole and one or more extension poles and securing the fly at the ribbons extending from the deployable tent.

20. A method for converting a trek tent assembly from a tenting configuration to a walking configuration comprising the following steps: releasing the leg ends from ribbons extending from the floor of the tent;compressing and locking the telescoping length of the main pole with respect to the extension poles;retracting the first and second set of legs towards the main pole;wrapping the deployable tent around the main pole; and,binding the deployable tent about the main pole.