This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/317,384, filed Mar. 25, 2010 by Jeffrey Alan Bernat, and entitled “Portable Hammock,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
None.
This disclosure relates to reversibly-extensible frame systems capable of supporting a support surface in a cot-like configuration.
In general, some people enjoy being outdoors and engaging in outdoor activities such as camping and hiking. While spending time away from the conveniences of modern amenities can be rewarding, in some cases, people enjoy the ability to relax comfortably in an outdoor setting. Tents, campers, and other outdoor-living products allow people to engage with nature yet still provide some level of comfort or protection from weather and other factors. Portability of such devices can be desirable for the consumer, as, in some cases, it provides the ability to travel longer distances with a lesser weight burden on the carrier.
In one general aspect, a collapsible, self-supporting hammock is disclosed. The hammock includes a reversibly extensible frame system capable of supporting a user's weight upon a substantially planar support surface, where the support surface is attached to the frame when the frame system is in an extended configuration. The support surface includes a tensioning strap that is capable of both providing structural integrity to the frame and concurrently providing tension of the planar support surface.
In one embodiment, the reversibly extensible frame system includes two or more leg pairs connected by one or more rotatably-coupled support member pairs that allow the frame to both compress into a minimum volume in a storage configuration and also extend into the extended configuration.
In one embodiment, a longitudinal stability of the frame is partially provided by locking the one or more support member pairs into an extended configuration. In a related embodiment, locking the one or more support member pairs into an extended configuration includes inserting a terminal end of a first support member of a support member pair into a shroud disposed on a first leg, and inserting a terminal end of a second support member into a shroud disposed on a second leg. In a related embodiment, each leg includes a joining member disposed on an end of the leg, wherein the joining member is configured to receive a portion of the tensioning strap and allow shifting of the tensioning strap therethrough. Furthermore, tightening the tensioning strap urges the leg ends toward one another against an urge-resistive bracing force provided by the support member pairs, thereby providing structural integrity to the frame.
In one embodiment, the second support member is part of a second support member pair.
In one embodiment, the joining member includes a rigid body having one or more protrusions configured to fit into a terminal portion of a frame member with a minimum of space therebetween. The joining member further includes a channel on a first face of the body which is configured to receive a portion of the tensioning strap. The joining member further includes a flared portion on a second face of the body, wherein the flared portion originates from the channel, and wherein the first and said second faces are orthogonal. In a related embodiment, the rigid body includes a first protrusion configured to be inserted into a leg of the frame and a second protrusion configured to be inserted into a terminal portion of a cross-brace that spans two or more legs of the frame.
In one embodiment, the hammock further includes a second substantially planar support surface capable of supporting a portion of a user's weight. The second planar portion is attached to the first planar support surface at one end, and to a headrest frame at a second end. The headrest frame is rotatably coupled to a portion of the frame system. In a related embodiment, the headrest frame is rotatably coupled to a cross-brace that spans a first and a second leg of the frame system. In a related embodiment, a headrest tensioning strap is coupled at each end to the headrest frame and a cross-brace, respectively, wherein the cross-brace is a rigid member that spans a first and second leg of the frame system.
In one embodiment, the planar support surface includes one or more mechanisms for attaching one or more accessory(ies), or a second collapsible, self-supporting hammock thereto. In a related embodiment, the accessory(ies) is one or more of: fishing or hunting accessories, floatation devices, shades, netting, beverage holders, pockets, anchors, pillows, or storage containers.
In one embodiment, a first frame leg comprises a jacket for coupling one of the rotatably-coupled supports to the first leg. The jacket includes a rigid body having one or more bores for inserting a one or more attachment mechanisms therethrough and into the leg to attach the jacket to the leg. The jacket further includes at least a partial shroud extending from the rigid body at an angle that allows an end portion of a first support member of the rotatably-coupled support to be inserted therein when the frame is in an extended configuration. At least one of the attachment mechanisms provides for attaching a second support member of the rotatably-coupled support to the jacket. In a related embodiment, the hammock further includes a column-shaped stabilizing body that protrudes from the rigid body and is disposed within the shroud. In this embodiment the stabilizing body is sized and configured to be inserted into the end portion of the first support member. The stabilizing body protrudes from the rigid body at substantially the same angle as the shroud.
In one general aspect, a portable cot is disclosed. The portable cot includes a reversibly extensible frame system for supporting a fabric thereon in a cot-like configuration. The frame system includes one or more rotatably-coupled x-shaped frame support members attached to, and separately spanning from first to second, and third to fourth legs, and one or more rigid cross-braces attached to, and separately spanning from the first to the third leg, and from the second to the fourth leg to provide a semi-rigid framework having a substantially rectangular shape. The fabric further includes a tensioning strap that allows a user to urge an end of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth legs together against a resistive force provided by the semi-rigid framework, which creates a substantially rigid framework and a resting surface capable of being used as a cot.
In one embodiment, the portable cot further includes a shroud on each of the first, second, third, and fourth legs that is configured to allow manual insertion and removal of an end of the x-shaped frame support member and provide connection to the leg without use of other attachment mechanisms.
In one embodiment, the portable cot further includes straps attached to the frame system or the fabric, or both, to allow the portable cot to be worn as a backpack.
In one embodiment the portable cot further includes means for attaching accessory items or attaching two or more portable cots in a tandem configuration.
In one general aspect, a portable hammock is disclosed. The portable hammock includes a substantially rectangular-shaped reversibly-extensible support frame that includes a substantially planar head frame and a substantially planar foot frame. The head frame and the foot frame include two legs coupled by one or more rigid cross-braces. The head frame and the foot frame are joined by at least two x-shaped supports to form a substantially-rectangular frame shape. The x-shaped support includes at least two rigid support members rotatably coupled near their longitudinal midpoints. The portable hammock further includes a first, substantially planar support surface capable of supporting a user's weight. The support surface is coupled to the reversibly-extensible support frame by a tensioning strap that is generally disposed about the perimeter of the support surface. The portable hammock further includes a backrest frame rotatably coupled to one of the head frame cross-braces. The portable hammock further includes a second, substantially planar support surface joined along one perimeter side to the first substantially planar support surface, and along a second perimeter side to the backrest frame. The tensioning strap runs through a joining member disposed on a top portion of each of the legs; providing tension to the tensioning strap causes each of the top portions of each leg to shift toward a midpoint of the substantially-rectangular frame shape when the portable hammock is in an extended configuration.
A portable hammock of the type described herein can be longitudinally extensible, e.g., fold into a minimum-volume configuration that allows transport as a backpack on a wearer's back; or extend into a deployed configuration, where a fabric support surface supports a user's weight like a cot or hammock. In some embodiments, a portable hammock includes a reversibly reclinable backrest body wherein a structural component of the backrest body is formed of fabric. In some embodiments, a portable hammock includes accessory members for holding articles, such as fishing poles, beverage containers, sleeping materials (e.g., sleeping bags) and the many others. In some embodiments, a portable hammock includes tandem attachment members for securing two or more portable hammocks together, creating a larger resting area than that of a single portable hammock. Such a configuration can be used for sleeping, or resting with a partner.
Certain advantages of the systems and methods described herein include lightweight portability, simple methods for deploying and packaging, and the ability to accessorize a portable hammock, among others.
Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of any described embodiment, suitable methods and materials are described below. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. In case of conflict with terms used in the art, the present specification, including definitions, will control.
The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages will be apparent from the drawings and detailed description, and from the claims.
The present embodiments are illustrated by way of example and not limitations in the figures of the accompanying drawings in which scale is arbitrary, like references indicate similar elements, and in which:
In general, resting systems are described. The resting systems as described herein can be used when and where a person wishes to sit- or lie down, such as during camping, hiking, lounging, or other activities. The resting systems described herein provide advantages in portability, ease of use (i.e., deployment and packaging for transport), protection from sunlight, bugs, and other environmental factors, and a providing a full-size resting area capable of being stored in a highly compact configuration.
In general, in one embodiment, a hammock system is described. In general, the term “hammock,” as used herein, is used to describe a system that includes a substantially planar support fabric supported by at least one structural member. In some embodiments, however, the support fabric can be draped, to form a non-planar support fabric. Terms similar to “hammock” as used herein include cots, portable beds, “lawn chairs,” and the like. The hammock systems can be reversibly collapsible, in that the system can be selectively deployed from an open, extended configuration (in this case, a hammock structure capable of supporting weight) into a collapsed, transportable configuration occupying minimal volume, and vice-versa. In general, a reversibly collapsible hammock (hereinafter “hammock”) can include, among many other features and alternatives: a reversibly-collapsible, lightweight support structure system of trusses and support members configured to support of a fabric for carrying a user's weight; integrated shoulder straps for personal transportation during, e.g., hiking; a fabric for supporting the user's weight while sitting, lying down, or in other positions; and a system of lightweight fabric structural members for supporting an adjustable back rest. Additionally, a hammock can include features for storing or supporting personal items such as beverages, and accessory items such as protective covers, umbrellas, mosquito netting, sleeping accessories (pillows, sheets, sleeping bags and the like), and other accoutrements.
Throughout the disclosure, it will be understood that the inventive subject matter is not limited in its application to the details of the particular arrangements shown, but is also capable of other arrangements. Similarly, those skilled in the mechanical arts will appreciate that the features described, and the terms used to describe them, can be exchanged for equivalent structures, terminology, and construction approaches that yield similar results or function. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.
Referring now to
One or more X-shaped support member pairs 130 can couple the left legs 114, 116, to the right legs 110, 112, respectively. Each X-shaped support member 130 can include one or more elongate bars 132 pivotally coupled about a center point 134. The elongate bars can be coupled by methods known in the art, such as with a rivet 136, cotter, bolt, or similar article. One or more X-shaped support members 130 can be linked in series to create a longitudinally-extendable support structure 100 of varying length as illustrated in
X-shaped support members 130 can be optimally assembled such that parallel elongate bars on neighboring X-shaped support members 130, e.g., elongate bars 132 and 142, are brought to a substantially confronting relationship when the support structure 100 is in a folded configuration, such as the configuration shown in
A frame body 148 can include a plurality of interconnected support members 148a-c to provide a support structure for a fabric support that can be used, e.g., as a back rest. The frame body 148 can be pivotally coupled to an upper traversing cross brace 118, 122 by, e.g., a pair of C-clamps 146 integral with one or more of the support members 148a, 148c.
Referring now to
Referring now to
Referring now to
A lower bolt 158 extends through two opposing sides of the body 156 and the leg 114 to secure a lower portion of the leg assembly 154. In some embodiments, bolt 158 extends beyond the body 156 to provide an attachment point for an elongate bar (e.g., elongate bar 140) of an X-shaped support member 130. In such an embodiment, the elongate bar can be securely fastened to the leg assembly 154 and thereby the leg 114. A bolt 158 is one of many options for securely connecting an elongate bar of an X-shaped support member to a leg assembly 154. Other connection mechanisms such as pins, cotters, rivets and the like are known in the art and can be used as alternatives.
An upper bolt 160 extends through two sides of the body 156 and the leg 114 to secure an upper portion of the leg assembly 154. Similarly, other connecting means such as pins, cotter assemblies, rivets, and the like may be used to securely connect the upper portion of the leg assembly 154 to the leg 114.
Still referring to
Within the shroud 162, a column-shaped stabilizing body 168 protrudes from the leg assembly body 156. In this embodiment, the stabilizing body 168 is sized and configured to plug into an end portion of a hollow, rectangular-tubular elongate bar to minimize the likelihood of the elongate bar unintentionally shifting out of the shroud 162. Again, the stabilizing body 168 can be designed to fit into an aperture of any type of elongate bar, e.g., a hollow, tubular elongate arm. The shroud 162 extends from the assembly body 156 at a slight downward angle θ as indicated in view B which can provide additional stabilizing force as described below; a buttress member 164 extends from the assembly body 156 to a top portion of the shroud 162 to provide structural reinforcement.
Referring now to
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Referring to
The channel 604 gradually expands in volume from a left side 610 to a right side 611 of the body 601. Flared portions 608a, 608b of the channel wall extend in opposite flaring directions to form a cusp with a bottom wall 613 and a top wall 612 of the body 601, respectively. A beveled portion 609 of the right wall 611 can allow the strap rotate to a vertical orientation and can also provide a smooth surface on which the strap can shift, e.g., during tightening and loosening of the strap. Tightening and loosening the strap, as described in greater detail below, can allow a user to apply a desired tensioning force to the support fabric.
Each of legs 110, 112, 114, and 116 can include an integral or attachable joining member 600 as shown, e.g., in
Referring now to
In some embodiments, such as the embodiment of
Referring now to
A tensioning strap 807 is integrally connected to right and left peripheral sides 809, 811, respectively, of the support surface 805, and extends beyond the bottom and top end peripheral edges 813, 815, respectively, of the support surface 805. Portions of the tensioning strap 807, e.g., those that extend beyond the bottom and top end peripheral edges 813, 815 of the support surface 805, are passed through joining members 817a-d to support the planar support surface 805 (817d is not shown in
In one embodiment, the tensioning strap 807 runs through an elongate loop of support surface material. Such an embodiment can allow the tensioning strap 807 to shift with respect to the support surface 805.
In one embodiment, the tensioning strap 807 is formed of two non-integral portions that can be fastened together. A fastener 819 can releasably join two ends of the tensioning strap 807 and furthermore provide the capability to provide a selected amount of tension in the support surface 805. The fastener 819 can be any type known in the art for releasably joining two straps, e.g., cam, over-center, or ratchet-type fasteners, buckles, and end fittings, among others. In one embodiment, the tensioning strap 807 is an integral band that runs at least the perimeter of the support surface 805, and the fastener 819 can take up slack in the band 807 to provide a selected amount of support tension in the support surface 805.
The tensioning strap 807 can be used to stiffen the overall hammock support structure 801. For example, the tensioning strap 807 in
In one embodiment, the support surface 805 is integrally connected to a backrest support 821. The backrest support 821 can include secondary support strap sections 823a, 823b that extend through joining members 825a and 825b, respectively, which are part of a frame body 829 (similar to frame body 148 described with respect to
A retaining strap 827 extends from a top cross-bar 831 of the frame body 829 to a lower traversing cross brace 833, which is similar to lower traversing cross brace 120 described in
In one embodiment, the backrest support 821 can include a pillow 837. The pillow can be removable or integrally connected to the surface of the backrest support 821 by sewing or other attachment methods. In one embodiment, the pillow 837 can be inflated and deflated by the user. In one embodiment, the pillow 837 and the backrest support 821 can each include one half of a hook-and-loop fastening system (e.g., the hook-and-loop fastening system sold under the Velcro brand name), respectively, so that the pillow 837 can be removably fastened to the backrest support 821.
In one embodiment, the tensioning strap 807 can include fastening or attaching mechanisms for connecting accessory items, described in greater detail below, or for connecting a second collapsible hammock in a tandem configuration. The attachment mechanisms shown in
In one embodiment, storage compartments 841 can be integrally connected to the support surface 805. The embodiment of
A collapsible hammock having mechanisms for connecting accessory items provides a wide range of accessory options for the user. The following embodiments provided without limitation to convey some exemplary accessory options. It will be understood that equivalents may be substituted as well as other accessory variations that will occur to the reader.
Referring now to
Referring now to
In one embodiment, a hammock can include an anchor. The anchor can be stored on the hammock, for example, within a storage container (e.g., container 841 in
Referring now to
The tandem configuration of two or more collapsible hammocks has certain advantages for sleeping or resting with a partner. For example, because the substantially planar support surfaces are supported along the longitudinal sides by a flexible support strap, two people can rest comfortably together in close proximity. Additionally, the ‘firmness’ of the substantially planar support surface of each collapsible hammock can be adjusted by adjusting the tension of the support strap as described above. Thus, each partner can choose a resting surface with a firmness that suits their personal preference. In some embodiments, both for single and tandem collapsible hammock configurations, the backrest support can be selectably folded down, as shown for collapsible hammock 1110, providing further options for personal resting preferences.
Referring now back to
The collapsible hammocks described herein may be manufactured to specifications for desired size, weight, length, and other measurables. In one embodiment, a collapsible hammock is approximately six (6) feet in length. In one embodiment, the substantially planar support surface is approximately 2 feet from the ground in an extended, deployed configuration. In one embodiment, a collapsible hammock can occupy a volume of approximately nine (9) cubic feet in the folded configuration. One embodiment of a collapsible hammock has undergone a finite element analysis for load bearing and was found to be able to support 350 pounds in an extended, deployed configuration. Although not shown in
In some embodiments, a collapsible hammock can be outfitted with holders configured to hold weaponry, such as firearms, including handguns and rifles. Such embodiments of a collapsible hammock can therefore be useful to hunters and military personnel. In the latter case, all, or portions of the collapsible hammock can include camouflage decoration so as to blend into a surrounding environment.
A number of illustrative embodiments have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the various embodiments presented herein. For example, while it would be impracticable to recite all available attachment means for accessories, it will be understood that a collapsible hammock can be modified or include attachment mechanisms to secure common articles. For example, a collapsible hammock can include harnesses, loops, straps, containers, recesses, pockets, clips, hooks, pouches, and similar items. Such items can allow for releasable attachment of, e.g., beverages, clothing, fishing and camping equipment, food, supplies, and other items. In one embodiment, a sleeping bag can be integrated into a user support surface (e.g., surface 805 in
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