INFLATABLE TENT

Abstract

An inflatable tent for use by travelers that is compact and portable and can quickly erect and fold. The inflatable tent includes a base and walls forming an enclosure. A door in the form of a flap is configured on a front wall. Inflatable bedding including one or more inflatable pillows and a mattress are enclosed within the inflatable tent. The inflatable tent is configured to automatically pop up to erect from a folded state.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to an inflatable tent, and more particularly, the present invention relates to an inflatable tent for use by travelers to rest during travel.

BACKGROUND

Travelers during their journey often have to wait for several hours while availing themselves of a service. For example, while boarding a flight, a traveler may have to wait for a few hours at the airport. Unexpected delays in flight schedules can further extend the wait times. Similar wait times can be expected at railway stations, bus stations, and the like. The amenities available at such places may vary from place to place. For example, at some airports, the passengers may be provided with recliners, while at some airports, only a chair may be available to take a rest while waiting for their flights. Insufficient facilities at airports and the like may lead to discomfort for the passengers waiting for long durations, and often exacerbating bodily pains.

A need is therefore appreciated for an apparatus that can be carried by a user for taking rest comfortably.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following presents a simplified summary of one or more embodiments of the present invention to provide a basic understanding of such embodiments. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated embodiments and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of all embodiments nor delineate the scope of any or all embodiments. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more embodiments in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The principal object of the present invention is therefore directed to an inflatable tent that is compact and lightweight for carrying by a user.

Another object of the present invention is that the inflatable tent provides a comfortable and inflatable mattress for the user to sit upon or lie down.

Still, another object of the present invention is that the inflatable tent provides a certain degree of isolation from the outside.

Yet another object of the present invention is that the inflatable tent can be stowed in a carry case.

A further object of the present invention is that the inflatable tent is easy and quick to erect and fold.

An additional object of the present invention is that the inflatable tent does not have multiple parts to assemble.

Still, a further object of the present invention is that the inflatable tent provided a certain degree of isolation from outside noise.

An additional object of the present invention is that the inflatable tent has luggage space.

Yet an additional object of the present invention is that the inflatable tent protects against insects and dirt.

In one aspect, disclosed is an inflatable tent which is compact and portable, the inflatable tent comprises a base and walls forming an enclosure; a door configured on a front wall of the walls; and a bedding coupled to an upper surface of the base, wherein the bedding is inflatable, the bedding comprises one or more inflatable pillows and an inflatable mattress, wherein the inflatable tent is configured to automatically pop up to erect from a folded state. The door is secured using a zipper. The inflatable tent further comprises an anchor on the base near the front wall, wherein the anchor is configured to secure the zipper in a closed state of the door. The inflatable tent further comprises a luggage space between the mattress and the front wall.

In one aspect, disclosed is a method for taking rest during travel, the method comprises providing an inflatable tent, the inflatable tent comprises a base and walls forming an enclosure, a door configured on a front wall of the walls; and a bedding coupled to an upper surface of the base, wherein the bedding is inflatable, the bedding comprises one or more inflatable pillows and an inflatable mattress, wherein the inflatable tent is configured to automatically pop up to erect from a folded state. The method further comprises removing the inflatable tent from a casing and erecting of the inflatable tent.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The accompanying figures, which are incorporated herein, form part of the specification and illustrate embodiments of the present invention. Together with the description, the figures further explain the principles of the present invention and enable a person skilled in the relevant arts to make and use the invention.

FIG. 1 shows a side and rear view of the inflatable tent, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows a side of the inflatable tent, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 shows a schematic top view of the inflatable tent in which the walls are hidden to show the inner view, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 shows a side and front perspective view of the inflatable tent in which the walls are hidden to show the inner view, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 shows an anchor for hooking a zip of the inflatable tent, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Subject matter will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and which show, by way of illustration, specific exemplary embodiments. Subject matter may, however, be embodied in a variety of different forms and, therefore, covered or claimed subject matter is intended to be construed as not being limited to any exemplary embodiments set forth herein; exemplary embodiments are provided merely to be illustrative. Likewise, a reasonably broad scope for claimed or covered subject matter is intended. Among other things, for example, the subject matter may be embodied as methods, devices, components, or systems. The following detailed description is, therefore, not intended to be taken in a limiting sense.

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Likewise, the term “embodiments of the present invention” does not require that all embodiments of the invention include the discussed feature, advantage, or mode of operation.

The terminology used herein is to describe particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting to embodiments of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises”, “comprising,”, “includes” and/or “including”, when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

The following detailed description includes the best currently contemplated mode or modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is made merely to illustrate the general principles of the invention since the scope of the invention will be best defined by the allowed claims of any resulting patent.

Disclosed is an inflatable tent that can be carried by a person during travel. The disclosed inflatable tent can be carried in a folded state in a carry case. The case can be flexible like a travel sac or bag. The inflatable tent in the flexible and compact case can be easily carried by the person in hand or luggage. This makes the inflatable tent very compact and portable for carrying by a traveler. Besides being compact and portable, the disclosed inflatable tent does not have multiple parts to assemble while erecting the inflatable tent. The disclosed inflatable tent can automatically pop up from the folded state. The air can be filled using a mouth or pump or any other suitable inflation mechanism known in the art. Thus, the user can quickly inflate the inflatable tent. Similarly, the erected inflatable tent can be folded and stored in the bag/case quickly for storing and carrying the same. This makes the disclosed inflatable tent very suitable for use in travel when a person wants to rest while waiting.

The inflatable tent can be used in airports for taking rest while waiting for the flight. The user instead of waiting on an uncomfortable chair, can use the disclosed inflatable tent to comfortably sit or lie. The user can take a small nap inside the disclosed inflatable tent. The inflatable tent provides both safety and privacy to the user. Also, the inflatable tent to a certain degree provides insulation to external noises, lights, and similar distractions. The constant noise and harsh lighting in public places can be annoying to the user. The disclosed inflatable tent can provide a comfortable and private space for sleeping.

The disclosed inflatable tent can also provide a secure environment for personal belongings. Any risk of theft or loss during naps at public places, like airports, can be prevented. The portable and inflatable tent can be easily carried and erected for use, making it a convenient travel accessory. The material of the tent can shield the user from constant airport noise and distractions, facilitating better sleep. The compactness and quick installation make the inflatable tent very versatile and can be used at different public places, like stations, and airports, and can accommodate diverse traveler needs. This may also appeal to outdoor enthusiasts who may find the inflatable tent useful in camping, beach camping, and other outdoor activities. It is to be noted that the inflatable tent can be used both indoors and outdoors providing a comfortable and private space for rest. The drawstring stuff bag makes it easy to transport in a carry-on bag, backpack, or luggage. For taking a nap, the inflatable tent may also include one or more inflatable pillows. A carabiner or similar hook or anchor point can be included inside the tent as an anchoring point for luggage.

Referring to FIG. 1-5 which show different views of the inflatable tent. The inflatable tent may include a case, also referred to herein as a drawstring stuff bag, which can be used to store the folded inflatable tent. FIG. 4 shows case 10 also including a handle for holding the same in hand. The case can be a separate body from the inflatable tent. Or the case can be attached to the inflatable tent. The door secured by a zipper may provide for gaining entry into the inflatable tent and exiting from the inflatable tent. In certain implementations, the door can be in the form of a flap that can be an extension of the wall. However, the door of a different material, such as a fabric is within the scope of the present invention. Also, the door may be inflatable or non-inflatable, and any such variation is within the scope of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows a side view of the inflatable text as shown in FIG. 1. The inflatable tent can be of an elongated profile so that at least one person can comfortably lie down inside the inflatable tent. A mesh window 160 can be provided in a side wall for ventilation. The mesh may prevent any ingress of insects and the like. The window may have a flap cover to close the window if desired. For example, in cold weather, the user may wish to keep the window closed.

FIG. 3 shows a top schematic view of the inflatable tent 100 in the installed/erected state. The walls are not shown in FIG. 3 so the inner components are visible. The inflatable tent may include bedding 170, the bedding may include an inflatable mattress g over which the user can comfortably lie. Similarly, inflatable pillows 180 can also be included in the bedding. A blanket may also be included in the bedding. In certain implementations, the bedding can be attached to the base of the inflatable tent and can automatically be prepared with the unfolding of the inflatable tent. Similarly, the bedding can fold with the folding of the inflatable tent. It is to be noted that separate inflatable bedding is within the scope of the present invention.

There can also be pockets 190 on the side of the bedding. These pockets can be used to store small articles such as phones, keys, and the like. The pockets can provide an organized and safe storage for small articles, which may otherwise scatter here and there on the bedding. A valve 200 is also shown in the drawing that can be used for inflating the tent.

The inflatable tent may also include space for luggage. The luggage space 210 is shown in FIG. 3 between the front wall and the bedding. A bag can be easily and safely placed in the luggage space.

Referring to FIG. 3, the bedding can be seen covering the major portion of the inside of the inflated tent. In certain implementations, the bedding on the sides can extend upwards, which may act as side cushions, back support while sitting, and the like. The side pockets 190 can be provided on the extended side portion of the inflatable bedding. However, the side pocket on the side walls of the inflatable tent 100 is within the scope of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 4, is a side perspective view of the inflatable tent 100 in which walls are hiddle for showing the inner components. The bedding can be seen covering the major portion of the inside of the inflated tent. In certain implementations, the bedding on the sides can extend upwards, which may act as side cushions, back support while sitting, and the like. The side pockets 190 can be provided on the extended side portion of the inflatable bedding. However, the side pocket on the side walls of the inflatable tent 100 is within the scope of the present invention.

Refer to FIG. 5 which shows an anchor point 220 coupled to the base 110 of the inflatable tent. The anchor point can be a hook, a carabiner, or the like. The anchor point can be used to anchor the luggage for safety. For example, when a person is sleeping or taking a nap, the luggage secured to the anchor point prevents any theft. As shown in the drawings, the zipper can also be secured to the carabiner as the anchor point. Thus, the zipper can be locked from inside the inflatable tent which provides both safety and privacy inside the inflatable tent. The anchor 220, thus, may provide multiple functionality.

In certain implementations, the walls and the base of the inflatable tent can be inflatable. The walls and base can be made from multiple plies of sheets encasing the air cavities, the sheets can be reinforced in different areas. The reinforcements and air cavities may provide the walls with the required strength to remain erect and maintain shape. The inflatable tent can automatically pop-up when inflated. The inflatable walls, base, and bedding can be fluidly coupled to a common inflation port; thus, the whole assembly can be inflated at once. Similarly, the assembly can be deflated at once through the common inflation port.

In certain implementations, only the bedding, including the pillows, can be inflatable while the base and the walls of the tent are not inflatable. The walls and the base made from sheets can be supported on a foldable frame. The frame may provide the desired rigidity and strength for the inflatable tent to remain erected. The frame can be folded for storage and carrying the inflatable tent.

The frame can be made from suitable rods or wires that provide both flexibility for folding and rigidity for erecting the inflatable tent. The frame made of wires and/or rods running along the edges of the inflatable tent may allow the tent to be folded and unfolded. When unfolded, the frame may cause the inflatable tent to automatically pop up and maintain the up standing/erected shape. The wires/rods can be rigid with some flexibility and resilience. For example, the wires and rods can be made from spring steel.

The walls and base can be made from any suitable material. Preferably, the walls and the base of the inflatable tent can be made from fabric, polymeric material, and the like. Preferably, the material of the base and walls can be waterproof and dustproof. It is to be noted that the walls and base can be made from the same or different material, and any use of suitable material is within the scope of the present invention. Also, the material used in making of the base and wall may be durable for the longer life of the inflatable tent. The bedding including the pillows can be made from the same material used in making the base and/or wall of the inflatable tent. Preferably, the top surface of the inflatable bedding including that of the pillow can have a layer of fabric or similar material that is comfortable and skin friendly.

While the foregoing written description of the invention enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the specific embodiment, method, and examples herein. The invention should therefore not be limited by the above-described embodiment, method, and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the invention as claimed.

Claims

1. An inflatable tent which is compact and portable, the inflatable tent comprises: a base and walls forming an enclosure;a door configured on a front wall of the walls; anda bedding coupled to an upper surface of the base, wherein the bedding is inflatable, the bedding comprises one or more inflatable pillows and an inflatable mattress,wherein the inflatable tent is configured to automatically pop up to erect from a folded state.

2. The inflatable tent according to claim 1, wherein the door is secured using a zipper.

3. The inflatable tent according to claim 2, wherein the inflatable tent further comprises an anchor on the base near the front wall, wherein the anchor is configured to secure the zipper in a closed state of the door.

4. The inflatable tent of claim 2, wherein the inflatable tent further comprises a luggage space between the mattress and the front wall.

5. The inflatable tent of claim 4, wherein the one or more inflatable pillows and the inflatable mattress comprises a common inflation port, wherein the one or more pillows are attached to a top surface of the inflatable mattress and the inflatable mattress is attached to the base.

6. The inflatable tent of claim 5, wherein the inflatable tent further comprises one or more pockets configured in an extended side portion of the inflatable mattress.

7. The inflatable tent of claim 5, wherein the inflatable tent further comprises one or more pockets configured in a side wall of the walls of the inflatable tent.

8. The inflatable tent of claim 5, wherein the inflatable tent further comprises a mesh window configured in one wall of the walls of the inflatable tent.

9. A method for taking rest during travel, the method comprises: providing an inflatable tent, the inflatable tent comprises: a base and walls forming an enclosure,a door configured on a front wall of the walls, anda bedding coupled to an upper surface of the base, wherein the bedding is inflatable, the bedding comprises one or more inflatable pillows and an inflatable mattress,wherein the inflatable tent is configured to automatically pop up to erect from a folded state;removing the inflatable tent from a casing;erecting of the inflatable tent.