US20070006910A1 - Collapsible structure - Google Patents

Collapsible structure Download PDF

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Publication number
US20070006910A1
US20070006910A1 US11/481,287 US48128706A US2007006910A1 US 20070006910 A1 US20070006910 A1 US 20070006910A1 US 48128706 A US48128706 A US 48128706A US 2007006910 A1 US2007006910 A1 US 2007006910A1
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United States
Prior art keywords
frame
collapsible
segments
hinges
supporters
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
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US11/481,287
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English (en)
Inventor
Wan-sing Chu
Lai-ha Wu
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Best Tide Manufacturing Co Ltd
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Best Tide Manufacturing Co Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Best Tide Manufacturing Co Ltd filed Critical Best Tide Manufacturing Co Ltd
Priority to US11/481,287 priority Critical patent/US20070006910A1/en
Assigned to BEST TIDE MFG. CO., LTD. reassignment BEST TIDE MFG. CO., LTD. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: CHU, WAN-SING, WU, LAI-HA
Assigned to BEST TIDE MFG. CO., LTD. reassignment BEST TIDE MFG. CO., LTD. CORRECTIVE COVERSHEET TO CORRECT THE ASSIGNEE ADDRESS THAT WAS PREVIOUSLY RECORDED ON REEL 018086, FRAME 6427. Assignors: CHU, WAN-SING, WU, LAI-HA
Publication of US20070006910A1 publication Critical patent/US20070006910A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/006—Tents used as toys
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47D—FURNITURE SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CHILDREN
    • A47D13/00—Other nursery furniture
    • A47D13/06—Children's play- pens
    • A47D13/061—Children's play- pens foldable
    • A47D13/063—Children's play- pens foldable with soft walls
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47D—FURNITURE SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CHILDREN
    • A47D9/00—Cradles ; Bassinets
    • A47D9/005—Cradles ; Bassinets foldable
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/24—Tents or canopies, in general cone shaped, e.g. teepees
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/32—Parts, components, construction details, accessories, interior equipment, specially adapted for tents, e.g. guy-line equipment, skirts, thresholds
    • E04H15/34—Supporting means, e.g. frames
    • E04H15/36—Supporting means, e.g. frames arch-shaped type
    • E04H15/38—Supporting means, e.g. frames arch-shaped type expansible, e.g. extensible in a fan type manner
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/32—Parts, components, construction details, accessories, interior equipment, specially adapted for tents, e.g. guy-line equipment, skirts, thresholds
    • E04H15/34—Supporting means, e.g. frames
    • E04H15/44—Supporting means, e.g. frames collapsible, e.g. breakdown type
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/32—Parts, components, construction details, accessories, interior equipment, specially adapted for tents, e.g. guy-line equipment, skirts, thresholds
    • E04H15/34—Supporting means, e.g. frames
    • E04H15/44—Supporting means, e.g. frames collapsible, e.g. breakdown type
    • E04H15/48—Supporting means, e.g. frames collapsible, e.g. breakdown type foldable, i.e. having pivoted or hinged means
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/32—Parts, components, construction details, accessories, interior equipment, specially adapted for tents, e.g. guy-line equipment, skirts, thresholds
    • E04H15/56—Floors

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to collapsible structures for child use such as a collapsible baby bed, infant playpen, children play tent and the like.
  • the present invention also relates to methods of collapsing and expanding the structure.
  • Collapsible structures are commonly used in collapsible baby beds, infant playpens, cribs, playhouses, tents, pavilions, shelters, sun shields, etc.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 6,035,466 discloses a collapsible baby bed which includes a fabric cover covering a collapsible tubular frame.
  • the frame includes a plurality of links which are coupled by a resilient cord such that when in use, the bed may take the form of a conventional crib or playpen.
  • the links When the links are decoupled, the bed can be folded into a collapsed structure for storage or transport.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 5,363,521 discloses a collapsible playpen having a pair of spaced apart articulated end frames, wherein the end frames are separated by articulated upper and lower rails.
  • the end frames and rails are constructed so that the playpen is collapsed by folding the lower rails to draw lower portions of the end frames together and simultaneously rotating the upper portion of the opposing end frames away from each other such that the distance between the upper portion of the end frames is greater than the distance between the lower portion of the end frames.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 3,810,482 discloses a collapsible tent structure in which both sidewalls, the rear wall and top are supported by nearly identical subframe assemblies, each of which has a length of stretchable cord fastening the ends of its jointed diagonally extending struts together.
  • the struts of each subframe assembly are pivotally attached at their adjacent ends to a stop-forming connector at the intersection of the diagonals for foldable movement in one direction into side-by-side relation with one another while such connector limits their unfolded position to one in which they bear an angular relation of over 180° and less than approximately 220° to one another which position is maintained by the tension in the stretchable cord interconnecting the remote ends thereof.
  • the cord preferably is reeved through marginal hems bordering the frame-supported walls thus defining a unitary foldable tent assembly.
  • the frame itself comprises the four more or less identically constructed subframe assemblies pivotally interconnected to one another at their common corners together with the connectors for accomplishing the latter.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 4,944,322 discloses another collapsible tent structure wherein a plurality of pole clusters is utilized.
  • Each pole cluster has three poles which form an inverted Y-shape, the poles being loosely connected at the center of the inverted Y so that each of the arms may articulate relative to each other.
  • the poles forming the two arms of each inverted Y extend to the ground and the poles forming the stems of each Y extend upwardly and are connected to each other at the top of the structure.
  • a foldable membrane is provided which is connected to both ends of each pole by a clip whereby a foldable tent structure is provided which may be assembled and disassembled repeatedly without separating the foldable membrane from the poles.
  • a collapsible structure including a first frame member defining a base of the structure and a second frame member defining a top of the structure.
  • a piece of foldable material is attached to and extends between the first and second frame members.
  • a plurality of foldable frame supporters is mounted on the piece of foldable material whereby folding of the frame supporters drives the first and second frame members towards a superimposed and collapsed position, and unfolding of the frame supporters drives the first and second frame members towards spaced apart and expanded positions.
  • Another piece of foldable material covers the first frame member.
  • the collapsible structure can also include hinge mechanisms provided on the first and second frame members for folding the collapsed and superimposed first and second frame members.
  • the hinge mechanism can include a first pair of hinges provided on the first frame member, and a second pair of hinges provided on the second frame member.
  • each of the foldable frame supporters can include a first section and a second section hingedly connected to the first section.
  • the first and second sections can be configured to abut against each other when folded and to remain in an aligned or colinear relationship when unfolded.
  • first and second frame members can be in generally parallel and vertically spaced relationship and the plurality of foldable frame supporters are in a generally upright position when the structure is in the expanded position.
  • the collapsible structure can further include a collapsible hood member attached to the second frame member for at least partially covering the open top of the structure.
  • a collapsible child play enclosure which comprises a plurality of frame assemblies, each of which includes a plurality of frame segments and a plurality of hinges connecting adjoining frame segments.
  • the hinges are constructed and arranged to provide movement of the frame assemblies between assembled and collapsed positions.
  • a piece of foldable material is secured to the frame members to enclose an interior space within the frame assemblies when in the assembled position, the frame segments of said frame assemblies are superimposed on one another in the collapsed position and can be folded into a compact state.
  • a method for expanding and collapsing a structure intended for use by a child which comprises assembling the structure with an enclosure for a child by a plurality of segments incorporating snap-lock hinges; providing a flexible covering on the structure, selectively assembling and collapsing the structure by locking or unlocking the hinges.
  • the said hinges are selectively locked and unlocked by (1) aligning the segments of the structure connected by the hinges and (2) to lock the structure pivotably moving the segments out of alignment to collapse the structure to a folded condition, and when the segments are in the folded condition, they are superimposed on one another to provide a flat condition for the structure which can then be folded at the hinges to make the structure more compact.
  • FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view of a collapsible baby bed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 2 shows the frames of the collapsible baby bed of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 2A shows a hinge mechanism of the collapsible baby bed in a folded position
  • FIG. 2B shows the hinge mechanism of the collapsible baby bed in an unfolded position
  • FIGS. 3A-3E show the steps of folding the collapsible baby bed
  • FIGS. 4A-4E show the steps of unfolding the collapsible baby bed
  • FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic view of a collapsible infant play pen in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 6 shows the frames of the collapsible infant play pen of FIG. 5 ;
  • FIGS. 7A-7C show the steps of folding the collapsible infant play pen
  • FIGS. 8A-8C show the steps of unfolding the collapsible infant play pen
  • FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic view of a collapsible igloo in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 10 shows the frames of the collapsible igloo of FIG. 9 ;
  • FIGS. 11A-11D show the steps of folding the collapsible igloo
  • FIGS. 12A-12D show the steps of unfolding the collapsible igloo
  • FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic view of a collapsible teepee in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 14 shows the frames of the collapsible teepee of FIG. 13 ;
  • FIG. 14A shows a hinge mechanism of the collapsible teepee of FIG. 13 ;
  • FIGS. 15A-15D show the steps of folding the collapsible teepee.
  • FIGS. 16A-16D show the steps of unfolding the collapsible teepee.
  • FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view of a collapsible baby bed 10 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • the structure of the collapsible baby bed 10 includes a top frame 12 , a bottom frame 14 , and a plurality of frame supporters generally denoted by reference numeral 16 .
  • the top and bottom frames 12 , 14 are in the shape of a closed loop.
  • the top frame 12 defines an open top 22 of the collapsible baby bed 10
  • the bottom frame 14 defines a base of the collapsible baby bed 10 .
  • the top and bottom frames 12 , 14 can be made of plastic tubes.
  • a sheet of foldable fabric material 18 is generally secured to the top and bottom frames 12 , 14 .
  • the fabric sheet 18 generally extends between and along the loop-shaped top and bottom frames 12 , 14 .
  • the fabric sheet 18 can be made of nylon, polyester, or other materials that are durable and easy to clean.
  • the fabric sheet 18 can be fastened to the top and bottom frames 12 , 14 by conventional methods, including but not limited to zipping, stitching, etc.
  • FIG. 2 shows the frame structure of the collapsible baby bed 10 .
  • a plurality of frame supporters 16 are adapted to support the top and bottom frames 12 , 14 of the collapsible baby bed 10 in an expanded position.
  • four frame supporter are used.
  • Two frame supporters 16 are disposed on opposite sides of the collapsible baby bed 10 .
  • the other two frame supporters 16 are disposed on opposite ends of the collapsible baby bed 10 .
  • each frame supporter 16 includes a first section 30 and a second section 32 hingedly connected to the first section 30 by a hinge mechanism, generally designated by reference numeral 34 .
  • each of the first and second sections 30 , 32 is made of a plastic tube. It is to be understood that each frame supporter 16 can include more than two sections hingedly connected with each other.
  • the frame supporter 16 can be adapted to be folded into a folded position where the first and second sections 30 , 32 abut against each other, as depicted in FIG. 2A .
  • the frame supporter 16 can also be adapted to be unfolded into an expanded or unfolded position where the first and second sections 30 , 32 are in an aligned or colinear relationship, as depicted in FIG. 2B .
  • the fabric sheet 18 is stretched out and the top and bottom frames 12 , 14 attached to the fabric sheet 18 are fully expanded.
  • the hinge mechanism 34 generally includes a first hinge segment 50 and a second hinge segment 52 .
  • the first and second hinge segments 50 , 52 are hingedly connected by a link 54 .
  • One end of the first hinge segment 50 is fixedly coupled to one end of the first section 30 of the frame supporter 16 .
  • one end of the second hinge segment 52 is fixedly coupled to one end of the second section 32 of the frame supporter 16 .
  • projections 56 , 58 are provided on the first and second hinge segments 50 , 52 respectively.
  • the projections 56 , 58 serve to maintain the first and second sections 30 , 32 in a colinear relationship when the frame supporter 16 is unfolded.
  • the projections 56 , 58 provide a snap-lock condition for the first and second sections in the expanded position of the baby bed.
  • each frame supporter 16 is preferably disposed within a tubular fabric cover 40 that is attached to the outer surface of the fabric sheet 18 by stitching.
  • the tubular fabric cover 40 can include an opening 42 from which the hinge mechanism 34 of the frame supporter 16 may protrude and be visible. This opening 42 can facilitate the folding and unfolding of the frame supporters 16 .
  • hinge mechanism 34 Although the use of one kind of hinge mechanism 34 has been described herein, it is appreciated that other kinds of hinge mechanisms may be employed.
  • the opposite free ends 36 , 38 of the frame supporter 16 is fastened within the opposite ends of the tubular cover 40 , respectively.
  • the free ends 36 , 38 When the frame supporter 16 is in its fully unfolded position, the free ends 36 , 38 generally abut against the top and bottom frames 12 , 14 respectively.
  • the length of the fully unfolded frame supporter 16 generally defines the height of the baby bed 10 when expanded.
  • the top frame 12 includes a pair of hinges 60
  • the bottom frame 12 also includes another pair of hinges 62 .
  • the pairs of hinges 60 , 62 can be disposed in the middle of the loop-shaped frames 12 , 14 , so that the top frame and the bottom frame can be folded, respectively.
  • a collapsible sun shield or hood 28 is attached to the top frame 12 so as to at least partially cover the open top 22 of the collapsible baby bed 10 .
  • Another sheet of fabric material 20 can be employed to cover the bottom frame 14 .
  • the fabric sheet 20 can form the bottom layer of the collapsible baby bed 10 .
  • a cushion (not shown) can be provided on this bottom layer for comfort purposes.
  • top frame 12 , the bottom frame 14 , and the frame supporters 16 are made of plastic tubes, it is to be understood that the top frame 12 , the bottom frame 14 , and the frame supporters 16 may be made of other suitable materials, including but not limit to metal or plastic rods, wires, strips, bars, etc.
  • the collapsible baby bed 10 has two loop-shaped frames 12 , 14 .
  • the number, the shape, and the size of these frames may vary.
  • the collapsible baby bed 10 may have one or more additional frames between the top and bottom frames 12 , 14 .
  • the frames 12 , 14 may be of other shapes, including but not limit to rectangular, circular, oval, etc.
  • the sizes of the frames 12 , 14 may be different.
  • the size of the top frame 12 may be larger than that of the bottom frame 14 .
  • FIGS. 3A-3E show exemplary steps of collapsing and folding the baby bed 10 of the present invention.
  • the four frame supporters 16 can first be folded, as shown by the arrows in FIG. 3B .
  • the sun shield 28 can then be folded.
  • the top and bottom frames 12 , 14 are collapsed into a generally superimposed position, as depicted in FIG. 3C .
  • the collapsed and superimposed top and bottom frames 12 , 14 can then be folded around the pairs of hinges 60 , 62 provided on the top and bottom frames 12 , 14 respectively, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 3D .
  • the superimposed frames 12 , 14 form portions which are juxtaposed on one another and the overall length of the superimposed frames 12 , 14 is reduced by one-half as shown in FIG. 3E .
  • FIGS. 4A-4E show exemplary steps of unfolding the collapsible baby bed 10 .
  • the collapsed and folded baby bed 10 can be unfolded at hinges 60 , 62 , as shown by the arrow in FIG. 4B .
  • the four frame supporters 16 are unfolded one after the other, as shown by the arrows in FIG. 4D .
  • the top and bottom frames 12 , 14 are brought into a vertically spaced apart and expanded position, as depicted in FIG. 4E .
  • the sun shield 28 may be unfolded, if needed.
  • FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic view of a collapsible infant play article 100 in the form of a playpen.
  • the collapsible infant play article 100 can be an accordion-like, vertically collapsible and expandable play article with the simulation of an animal.
  • the infant play article 100 includes a top frame 112 , a bottom frame 113 , and a plurality of frame supporters 116 .
  • the infant play article 100 can optionally include one or more intermediate frames 114 , 115 .
  • the top, bottom and intermediate frames 112 , 113 , 114 , 115 can be of circular shape.
  • the top frame 112 defines an open top 122 of the collapsible infant play article 100
  • the bottom frame 113 defines a base of the collapsible infant play article 100 .
  • the top, bottom and intermediate frames 112 , 113 , 114 , 115 may be made of metal strips or other suitable materials.
  • a sheet of flexible fabric material 118 is fastened to the top, bottom and intermediate frames 112 , 113 , 114 , 115 .
  • the fabric sheet 118 can extend between and around the top and bottom frames 112 , 113 .
  • the fabric sheet 118 is fastened to the top, bottom and intermediate frames 112 , 113 , 114 , 115 by conventional methods, including but not limited to zipping, stitching, etc.
  • the fabric sheet 118 can be made of nylon, polyester, or other materials that are durable and easy to clean.
  • a plurality of frame supporters 116 are adapted to support the frames 112 , 113 , 114 , 115 of the collapsible infant play article 100 in an expanded position.
  • Each frame supporter 116 includes a first section 130 and a second section 132 hingedly connected to the first section by a hinge mechanism generally designated by reference numeral 134 .
  • each of the first and second sections 130 , 132 is in the form of a plastic tube.
  • the hinge mechanism 134 can be the same as the hinge mechanism 34 described hereinbefore and shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B . It is to be understood that each frame supporter 116 can include more than two sections hingedly connected with each other.
  • the frame supporter 116 can be folded into a folded position where the first and second sections 130 , 132 abut against each other.
  • the frame supporters 116 can also be unfolded into an unfolded position where the first and second sections 130 , 132 are disposed in an aligned colinear relationship.
  • the fabric sheet 118 is stretched out and the frames 112 , 113 , 114 , 115 attached to the fabric sheet 118 are fully expanded.
  • Each frame supporter 116 can be covered by a tubular cover 140 made of fabric material.
  • the two opposite ends of each tubular cover 140 can be attached, preferably by stitching, to the inner surface of the fabric sheet 118 immediate adjacent to the top and bottom frames 112 , 113 respectively.
  • the tubular cover 140 has an opening 142 from which the hinge mechanism 134 of the frame supporter 116 may protrude and be visible.
  • the opposite free ends 136 , 138 of the frame supporter 116 can be fastened within the opposite ends of the tubular cover 140 respectively.
  • a collapsible hood 128 can be attached to the top frame 112 and can fully or partially cover the open top 122 of the collapsible infant play article 100 .
  • a fabric sheet 120 can be employed to cover the bottom frame 113 to form the bottom layer of the collapsible infant play article 100 .
  • a window or netted panel 124 can be provided on the collapsible infant play article 100 .
  • top frame 112 , the bottom frame 113 , and the intermediate frames 114 , 115 are made of metal strips, it is to be understood that they may be made of other suitable materials, including but not limit to metal or plastic tubes, rods, wires, etc.
  • hinge mechanism 134 may be the same as the hinge mechanism 34 shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B , it is appreciated that other kinds of hinge mechanisms may be employed.
  • the collapsible infant play article 100 has four circular frames 112 , 113 , 114 , 115 which in the expanded state of the play article 100 form a cylindrical volume in the interior of the play article.
  • the number, shape, and size of the frames may vary.
  • the collapsible infant play article 100 may have more or less than four circular frames.
  • the frames 112 , 113 , 114 , 115 may be of non-circular shape.
  • the sizes of the frames 112 , 113 , 114 , 115 may be different.
  • collapsible infant play article 100 may have more or less than three frame supporters 116 .
  • FIGS. 7A-7C show the steps of folding the collapsible infant play article 100 of the present invention.
  • the three frame supporters 116 are first folded one by one, as illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 7B .
  • the hood 128 can then be folded onto the top frame 112 .
  • the top, bottom and intermediate frames 112 , 113 , 114 , 115 can collapse into a generally superimposed position, as depicted in FIG. 7C .
  • FIGS. 8A-8C show the reverse steps of unfolding the collapsible infant play article 100 .
  • the three frame supporters 116 are unfolded one after the other, as illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 8B .
  • the hood 128 can then be unfolded.
  • the top, bottom and intermediate frames 112 , 113 , 114 , 115 are brought into a vertically spaced apart and expanded position, as shown in FIG. 8C .
  • FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic view of a collapsible igloo 200 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the igloo is in the form of a generally dome-shaped structure such as a tent.
  • the collapsible igloo 200 includes a first frame assembly generally designated by reference numeral 300 and a second frame assembly generally designated by reference numeral 400 .
  • the first and second frame assemblies 300 , 400 are arc-shaped, for example, semi-circular, when fully unfolded and expanded.
  • a sheet of fabric material 500 is secured on the first and second frame assemblies 300 , 400 of the collapsible igloo 200 .
  • the first frame assembly 300 and second frame assembly 400 each includes a plurality of segments hingedly connected with each other.
  • the first frame assembly 300 includes six frame segments 310 , 312 , 314 , 316 , 318 , 320 hingedly connected together by hinge mechanisms represented by circled block numbers 1 , 2 and 3 .
  • the second frame assembly 400 includes six frame segments 410 , 412 , 414 , 416 , 418 , 420 hingedly connected together by hinge mechanisms represented by circled block numbers 1 , 2 , 3 .
  • the frame segments 310 , 312 , 314 , 316 , 318 , 320 , 410 , 412 , 414 , 416 , 418 , 420 can be made of plastic tubes.
  • each of the hinge mechanisms represented by block numbers 1 , 2 , 3 of the first and second frame assemblies 300 , 400 can be the same as the hinge mechanism 34 as depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B .
  • the hinge mechanisms 1 , 2 , 3 are designated by numbers according to a preferred folding sequence. In other words, the frame segments are preferably folded at hinge mechanisms 1 initially, then at hinge mechanisms 2 , and finally at hinge mechanisms 3 .
  • the frame segments 310 , 320 can be the two ground-engaging frame segments of the first hinge assembly 300 . These two ground-engaging frame segments 310 , 320 can be adapted to engage the ground when the igloo 200 is in use and in its expanded position.
  • the ground-engaging frame segments 310 , 320 are hingedly connected to frame segments 312 , 318 respectively by hinge mechanisms 3 .
  • the frame segments 312 , 318 are hingedly connected to frame segments 314 , 316 respectively by hinge mechanisms.
  • the two frame segments 314 , 316 are hingedly connected together by hinge mechanism 1 which is the middle hinge mechanism at the peak of the first hinge assembly 300 .
  • the frame segments 410 , 420 are the two ground-engaging frame segments of the second hinge assembly 400 . These two ground-engaging frame segments 410 , 420 are adapted to engage the ground when the igloo 200 is in use and in its expanded position.
  • the ground-engaging frame segments 410 , 420 are hingedly connected to frame segments 412 , 418 respectively by hinge mechanisms 3 .
  • the frame segments 412 , 418 are, in turn, hingedly connected to frame segments 414 , 416 respectively by hinge mechanisms 2 .
  • the two frame segments 414 , 416 are hingedly connected together by the hinge mechanism 1 which is the middle hinge mechanism of the second hinge assembly 400 .
  • FIGS. 11A-11D show the steps of folding the collapsible igloo 200 .
  • the first frame assembly 300 is initially folded at hinge mechanism 1 thereof, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 11A , thereby bringing frame segments 310 , 312 , 314 towards frame segments 316 , 318 , 320 , respectively.
  • the second frame assembly 400 is then folded at hinge mechanism 1 thereof, as illustrated by the arrow in FIG. 1B , thereby bringing frame segments 410 , 412 , 414 towards frame segments 416 , 418 , 420 , respectively.
  • the first and second frame assemblies 300 , 400 can then be brought into a generally collapsed and superimposed relationship where the four hinge mechanisms 2 are grouped together into a first group and the four hinge mechanisms 3 are grouped together into a second group.
  • the collapsed and superimposed first and second frame assemblies 300 , 400 can then be folded at hinge mechanisms 2 , as shown by the arrow in FIG. 11C .
  • the first and second frame assemblies 300 , 400 can be folded at hinge mechanisms 3 , as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 11D .
  • the igloo is now in a collapsed state with the adjacent frame assemblies folded into a compact arrangement.
  • FIGS. 12A-12D show the reverse steps of unfolding the collapsed and folded igloo 200 of FIG. 9 .
  • collapsible igloo 200 is easy to set up and fold due to the particular arrangement of the frame segments and the application and grouping of the hinge mechanisms.
  • the collapsible igloo 200 has two frame assemblies 300 , 400 each having six frame segments 310 , 312 , 314 , 316 , 318 , 320 , 410 , 412 , 414 , 416 , 418 , 420 , it is appreciated that the numbers of frame assemblies and frame segments may vary. For example, there may be more than two frame assemblies and more or less than six frame segments in each frame assembly.
  • frame segments 310 , 312 , 314 , 316 , 318 , 320 , 410 , 412 , 414 , 416 , 418 , 420 are made of plastic tubes, it is appreciated that these frame segments may be made of other materials, such as metal tubes or metal/plastic rods.
  • hinge mechanisms 1 , 2 , 3 are the same as the hinge mechanism 34 shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B , it is appreciated that other kinds of hinge mechanisms may be employed which provide a locking feature when unfolded.
  • FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic view of a collapsible teepee 600 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
  • a teepee is a Native American tent of pyramid shape.
  • the term “teepee” is used herein to denote a children play tent resembling a teepee.
  • the collapsible teepee 600 includes a ground-engaging frame structure generally represented by reference numeral 602 , and a plurality of supporting frame assemblies generally designated by reference numeral 604 .
  • a sheet of fabric material 960 can be mounted on the frames of the collapsible teepee 600 .
  • the ground-engaging frame structure 602 includes a plurality of sides each having a plurality of frame segments hingedly connected together by hinge mechanisms. In the illustrated embodiment, the ground-engaging frame structure 602 has four sides each having two frame segments.
  • the frame segments 710 , 712 are hingedly connected together by a hinge mechanism 1 .
  • the frame segments 714 , 716 are disposed on the opposite side of the frame segments 710 , 712 and are hingedly connected together by another hinge mechanism 1 .
  • frame segments 718 , 720 are hingedly connected together by a hinge mechanism 2 .
  • the frame segments 722 , 724 are disposed on the opposite side of the frame segments 718 , 720 and are hingedly connected together by another hinge mechanism 2 .
  • the sides of the ground-engaging frame structure 602 are hingedly connected together at the corners by hinge mechanisms 734 .
  • Each supporting frame assembly 604 includes a plurality of frame segments.
  • each supporting frame assembly 604 includes an upper frame segment 910 , a middle frame segment 912 , and a lower frame segment 914 .
  • the upper and middle frame segments 910 , 912 are hingedly connected together by hinge mechanisms 3 .
  • the middle and lower frame segments 912 , 914 are hingedly connected together by hinge mechanisms 4 .
  • the supporting frame assemblies 604 are hingedly connected to the corners of the ground-engaging frame structure 602 respectively by the hinge mechanisms 734 .
  • the free ends of the supporting frame assemblies 604 can be grouped together to form the tip 930 of the collapsible teepee 600 .
  • the frame segments 710 , 712 , 714 , 716 , 718 , 720 , 722 , 724 , 910 , 912 , 914 are made of plastic tubes.
  • the hinge mechanism 734 includes a first hinge segment 750 , a second hinge segment 752 , and a third hinge segment 754 .
  • the first, second and third hinge segments 750 , 752 , 754 are hingedly connected by a link 756 .
  • One end of the first hinge segment 750 is fixedly coupled to one end of a frame segment of the ground-engaging frame structure 602 .
  • One end of the second hinge segment 752 is fixedly coupled to one end of another frame segment of the ground-engaging frame structure 602 .
  • One end of the third hinge segment 754 is fixedly coupled to one end of frame segment 914 of supporting frame assembly 604 .
  • Projections 760 , 762 are provided on the first and second hinge segments 750 , 752 respectively.
  • the projections 760 , 762 limit the two connecting frame segments of the ground-engaging frame structure 602 in a predefined relationship when the ground-engaging frame structure 602 is unfolded.
  • each of the hinge mechanisms 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 of the collapsible teepee 600 can be the same as the hinge mechanism 34 as depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B .
  • the hinge mechanisms 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 are designated by numbers according to a preferred folding sequence. In other words, the frame segments are initially folded at hinge mechanisms 1 and 2 , then at hinge mechanisms 3 , and finally at hinge mechanisms 4 .
  • FIGS. 15A-15D show the steps of folding the collapsible teepee 600 of the present invention.
  • the ground-engaging frame members 602 are initially folded at hinge mechanisms 1 as illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 15A , and then at hinge mechanisms 2 as illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 15B to form a collapsed teepee.
  • the collapsed teepee 600 can then be folded at hinge mechanisms 3 , as shown by the arrow in FIG. 15C .
  • the collapsed and folded teepee 600 can further be folded at hinge mechanisms 4 , as shown by the arrow in FIG. 15D .
  • FIGS. 16A-16D show the reverse steps of unfolding the collapsible teepee 600 .
  • collapsible teepee 600 is easy to set up and fold due to the particular arrangement of the frame segments and the application and grouping of the hinge mechanisms.
  • each supporting frame assembly 604 may have more or less than three frame segments.
  • frame segments 710 , 712 , 714 , 716 , 718 , 720 , 722 , 724 , 910 , 912 , 914 are made of plastic tubes, it is appreciated that these frame segments may be made of other materials such as metal tubes or metal/plastic rods.
  • hinge mechanisms 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 are the same as the hinge mechanism 34 shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B , it is appreciated that other kinds of hinge mechanisms may be employed.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Architecture (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Tents Or Canopies (AREA)
  • Carriages For Children, Sleds, And Other Hand-Operated Vehicles (AREA)
  • Invalid Beds And Related Equipment (AREA)
US11/481,287 2005-07-06 2006-07-05 Collapsible structure Abandoned US20070006910A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US11/481,287 US20070006910A1 (en) 2005-07-06 2006-07-05 Collapsible structure

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US69651505P 2005-07-06 2005-07-06
US11/481,287 US20070006910A1 (en) 2005-07-06 2006-07-05 Collapsible structure

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US20070006910A1 true US20070006910A1 (en) 2007-01-11

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US11/481,287 Abandoned US20070006910A1 (en) 2005-07-06 2006-07-05 Collapsible structure

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US (1) US20070006910A1 (fr)
EP (1) EP1741366A3 (fr)
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US20080066687A1 (en) * 2006-09-18 2008-03-20 Michael Leung Mobile pet bed/carrier
US20090121207A1 (en) * 2007-11-14 2009-05-14 James Patrick Bowerman Configurable enclosure
US20100294759A1 (en) * 2008-01-31 2010-11-25 Prime Honour Development Limited portable structure
US20140194031A1 (en) * 2013-01-10 2014-07-10 Tiny Love Ltd. Activity center
GB2514310A (en) * 2011-08-31 2014-11-26 Lynne Stewart A collapsible protective structure for infant nursery furniture
US20150040959A1 (en) * 2012-03-16 2015-02-12 Vuly Pty Ltd. Trampoline cover
WO2015118452A1 (fr) * 2014-02-04 2015-08-13 Icandy World Limited Améliorations apportées ou se rapportant à des unités de transport d'enfant
USD737919S1 (en) 2014-05-07 2015-09-01 Meadowbrook LLC Children's camper play tent
US9179785B2 (en) 2011-06-14 2015-11-10 Serpolet Self-deployable cot
US10383455B2 (en) * 2015-03-30 2019-08-20 Kids Ii, Inc. Depth-adjustable bassinet
US10612268B1 (en) * 2019-04-30 2020-04-07 Andrew Bobucky Portable canopy assembly
USD948225S1 (en) * 2019-06-05 2022-04-12 Mamas & Papas (Holdings) Limited Cradle
USD976762S1 (en) 2019-06-05 2023-01-31 Mamas & Papas (Holdings) Limited Pram
US20230064646A1 (en) * 2021-09-02 2023-03-02 Lara Hurst Pet apparatus

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DE102006041248A1 (de) * 2006-09-02 2008-03-20 Concord Gmbh Tragetasche für ein Kleinkind
CN101243932B (zh) * 2008-01-03 2011-07-06 深圳市洋洋母婴用品有限公司 婴儿围栏及其应用
GB2465596B (en) * 2008-11-21 2011-01-05 Catherine Dolores Curtis Portable playpen
FR2953701B1 (fr) * 2009-12-15 2012-03-02 Cardamine Lit pour enfant
CN103271589A (zh) * 2013-06-06 2013-09-04 徐李华 全折叠童床
CN106490883B (zh) * 2015-09-08 2019-10-18 明门香港股份有限公司 睡箱收折机构及睡箱
CN108209325B (zh) * 2016-12-22 2021-05-25 宝钜(中国)儿童用品有限公司 可固定收折方向的座布结构及婴儿床
CN110169677A (zh) * 2019-05-29 2019-08-27 好孩子儿童用品有限公司 折叠儿童用品

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US20120125265A1 (en) * 2006-09-18 2012-05-24 Michael Leung Mobile Pet Bed/Carrier
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US20080066687A1 (en) * 2006-09-18 2008-03-20 Michael Leung Mobile pet bed/carrier
US20090121207A1 (en) * 2007-11-14 2009-05-14 James Patrick Bowerman Configurable enclosure
US20100294759A1 (en) * 2008-01-31 2010-11-25 Prime Honour Development Limited portable structure
US9179785B2 (en) 2011-06-14 2015-11-10 Serpolet Self-deployable cot
GB2514310A (en) * 2011-08-31 2014-11-26 Lynne Stewart A collapsible protective structure for infant nursery furniture
US20150040959A1 (en) * 2012-03-16 2015-02-12 Vuly Pty Ltd. Trampoline cover
AU2017100365B4 (en) * 2012-03-16 2017-06-08 Vuly Pty Ltd Trampolines and trampoline covers
US9512631B2 (en) * 2012-03-16 2016-12-06 Vuly Pty Ltd. Trampoline cover
US20140194031A1 (en) * 2013-01-10 2014-07-10 Tiny Love Ltd. Activity center
CN106455830A (zh) * 2014-02-04 2017-02-22 爱康国际有限公司 儿童携带装置中或与儿童携带装置相关的改进
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USD737919S1 (en) 2014-05-07 2015-09-01 Meadowbrook LLC Children's camper play tent
US10383455B2 (en) * 2015-03-30 2019-08-20 Kids Ii, Inc. Depth-adjustable bassinet
US11330915B2 (en) 2015-03-30 2022-05-17 Kids2, Inc. Depth-adjustable bassinet
US11930939B2 (en) 2015-03-30 2024-03-19 Kids2, Inc. Depth-adjustable bassinet
US10612268B1 (en) * 2019-04-30 2020-04-07 Andrew Bobucky Portable canopy assembly
USD948225S1 (en) * 2019-06-05 2022-04-12 Mamas & Papas (Holdings) Limited Cradle
USD976762S1 (en) 2019-06-05 2023-01-31 Mamas & Papas (Holdings) Limited Pram
US20230064646A1 (en) * 2021-09-02 2023-03-02 Lara Hurst Pet apparatus

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN1891109A (zh) 2007-01-10
EP1741366A2 (fr) 2007-01-10
CN1891109B (zh) 2011-01-19
EP1741366A3 (fr) 2007-03-07

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