US3250449A

US3250449A - Convertible camping pack frame

Info

Publication number: US3250449A
Application number: US314272A
Authority: US
Inventors: Frank W Woodman
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 1963-10-07
Filing date: 1963-10-07
Publication date: 1966-05-10
Anticipated expiration: 1983-05-10

Description

y 1966 F. w. WOODMAN 3,250,449

CONVERTIBLE CAMPING PACK FRAME Filed Oct. 7. 1963 3 Sheets-Sheet 1 INVENTOR FRANK W. WOODMAN ATTORNEY May 10, 1966 F. w. WOODMAN CONVERTIBLE CAMPING PACK FRAME 3 Sheets-Sheet 2 Filed Oct. '7, 1963 lNVENTOR FRANK W. WOODMAN 2% ATTORNEY y 1966 F. w. WOODMAN 3,250,449

CONVERTIBLE CAMPING PACK FRAME Filed Oct. '7, 1963 5 Sheets-Sheet 3 NVENTOR FRANK W. WOODMAN ATTORNEY United States Patent.

3,258,449 CONVERTIBLE CAMPING PACK FRAME Frank W. Woodman, 348 N. Tracy, Wichita, Kans. Filed Oct. 7, 1963, Ser. No. 314,272 Claims. (Cl. 224-9) This invention relates to camping equipment. More specifically this invention relates to a novel convertible camping pack frame. Still more specifically this invention relates to a combination camping pack frame adapted to be mounted on the .back of the wearer that can be converted to an item of folding camp furniture.

Pack frames are old in the art. While the pack frames known to the art date back to the earliest days of Rome and China, they have undergone very little change in structure with the exception of the utilization of modern new light weight materials. Pack frames having a rigid frame are very efficient for transporting relatively heavy loads over long distances. They have been widely used by campers and others to carry camping equipment, food, sporting equipment, etc. to relatively inaccessible areas. However, after the camper has arrived at his destination bearing his load the conventional pack frame has little or no utility. The pack frames known to the prior art have in general a single purpose or function, namely the transporting of a load, which function ceases upon arrival.

Various types of convertible pack sacks and knap sack carrying frames that can be converted to camp stools are known. However these known apparatus have not proven entirely satisfactory in use. These carrying frames are not in general adapted to be used to carry large loads. Further, they are not comfortable and well balanced on the back of the wearer. The known pack frames do not have a resilient means adapted to engage the back of the wearer to make the frame comfortable and also provide for air circulation. Without air circulation between the portion of the frame engaging the back of the wearer the pack unit is uncomfortable and is likely to chafe the wearers back, shoulders, etc. Still further, the folding camping stools and the like associated with known frames, packs, etc. are very small, unstable, and not well suited for comfortable campingj The convertible pack frame of my invention has a mountable frame means and a resilient support means on the frame means for engaging the back and shoulders of a wearer when the pack frame is in a mounted position. Strap means are provided for securing the pack frame in mounted position on the back of the wearer. There is provided folded means secured to the frame means adapted to form with the frame means an item of a portable furniture.

A preferred specific embodiment of my pack frame is a combination pack frame and foldable camp chair. This embodiment 'has a mountable frame means, a resilient support means on the frame means for engaging the .hold them in a rigid supporting position.

Another preferred specific embodiment of my pack frame is a combination pack frame and foldable camp stool. This embodiment includes a foldable frame means, resilient support means on the frame means for engaging the back and shoulders of the wearer, strap 3,250,449 Patented May 10, 1966 means, and foldable means secured to the frame means adapted to form with the frame a foldable camp stool. The foldable means includes leg bars pivotally mounted on the frame and adapted to be secured in rigid supporting relation tothe mountable frame means. A detachable platform means is provided which can be mounted on the frame means to provide a convenient support for any load to be carried thereon.

Another preferred specific embodiment of my invention is a combination pack frame and folding camp table and/or bed. The embodiment has a mountable frame means, resilient support means on the frame means for engaging the back and shoulders of a person when in mounted position, strap means for securing the frame means in mounted position, and foldable means secured to the frame means adapted to form with the frame a foldable camp bed and/or a foldable cam table. The foldable means includes a foldahle rectangularframe means pivotally secured to the frame means and a foldable support means for the rectangular frame mounted opposite the foldable frame means. When the embodiment of my invention is to be used as a table a rigid fiat section top means is provided which overlies the rectangular frame. I g

The convertible pack frame of my invention solves all of the problems associated with pack frames known to the prior art. With the pack frame of my invention a relatively heavy load can be easily and relatively effortlessly transported to the desired camping area, and when the destination is reached'the pack frame can be con- 'verted into a useful item of camping furniture. Therefore, when the destination has been reached by the camper the pack frame of my invention does not cease to be usable but can be employed as a camping stool, a folding camp chair, a table, or a folding bed, depending on the specific embodiment of the invention. The convertible pack frame of my invention is comfortable and well balanced on theback of the .wearer thereby enabling him to transport relatively heavy loads without undue discomfort or effort. The pack frame. of my invention is provided with a resilient portion-adapted to engage the back of the wearer. This resilient portion of the pack frame makes it comfortable to wear, and also provides for the ventilation of air. The ventilation of air is very beneficial in that it makes the wearing of the pack frame more comfortable and also provides a cooling efliect which reduces chafing, etc. by dispelling of the perspiration norm-ally produced during a hike. Upon arrival at the camping destination, the pack frame of my invention is convertible into a sturdy useful itemof camping furniture which adds materially to the enjoyment and ovell being of the camper. The provision of a foldable means for converting the pack frame to an item of camping furniture does not. add an appreciable amount of weight to make the carrying of same an undue burden.

Thecombination packv frame and item of camping furniture of my invention is a light weight, compact, sturdy uni-t.

It is an object of this invention to provide new camp ing equipment. i

It is another object of this invention to provide a pack frame that is convertible to an item of foldahle camping furniture.

Still another object of this invention is to provide a convertible pack frame that is light in weight, compac and comfortable to carry. 1

Yet another object of this invention is to provide a convertible pack frame having a ventilated resilient portion that engages the back of the wearer.

Still another object of this invention is to provide a convertible pack frame which can be unfolded to form l i a sturdy, useful, and comfortable item of camping furniture. v Another object of this invention is to provide a pack frame which can be converted into a foldable camp chair.

pensive to produce;

Other objects and advantages of the invention will,

be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure set forth herein. a

Drawings of preferred specific embodiments of the invention accompany and are a part hereof, and such are to be understood to not unduly limit the scope of the invention. In the drawings,.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the convertible camping pack chair of my invention in folded position.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the combination camping pack frame adapted to be used as a folding chair shown in the unfolded positions usable as a camping chair.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another embodiment of my invention, namely the convertible pack frame adapted to be unfolded into a camping bed or camping table shown'in the unfolded position forming a camping bed.

FIG. 4 is a top view of the specific embodiment of my invention shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a fragmentary view of the embodiment of my invention shown in FIG. -3 illustrating the position of' the extensible leg portions adapting it to be utilized as a camping table.

FIG. 6 is a view taken on line6-6 of FIG. 3.

FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view taken on line 7-7 of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a fragmentary view of the embodiment of FIG. 3 showing the locking means for the extensible legs in position, locking same in folded position.

FIG. 9 is a side view showing the embodiment of FIG. 3 in folded position utilizable as a pack frame.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of still another specific embodiment of my invention namely, a combination pack frame and foldable camp stool shown in unfolded position forming a camp stool.

FIG. 11 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 10 illustrating it in the folded position unable as a pack frame.

FIG. 12 is a fragmentary detail view illustrating the means locking the platform to the pack frame shown in FIG. 10.

The following is a discussion and description of the new convertible pack frame of my invention made with reference to the drawings, wherein the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same or similar parts, and/or structure. The discussion and description are of preferred specific embodiments of the new pack frame, and embodiments thereof, of my invention, and it is to be understood that such are not to unduly limit the scope of my three vertically spaced bars 18, each having a curved surface 19, a straight surface opposite thereof and parallel transverse end surfaces. A rigid metal sheet covering 20 having a U-shaped cross section is secured to the reinforcing bars on the straight and end surfaces thereof. The covering 20 can be of any suitable material and be made in other equivalent forms if desired. Three strips 22 of web material, each strip being secured at its end portions to the end surfaces of the reinforcing bars 18,

span curve surfaces 19. Strips 22 can be of any suitable type material, as for example, canvas, plastic, etc. Two shoulder straps 24, each afixed at one end portion to the upper reinforcing bar 18 slightly spaced from the center thereof, and afiixed at the opposite end to the bottom reinforcing bar 18 slighty spaced from the center thereof, are provided for supporting the pack frame 15 in mounted relation on the back of the wearer. U-shaped length of tubing 26 has a first set of apertures 28 in the central portions of the respective legs, and an upper second set of apertures 30 spaced from said first set of apertures 28. The tubing 26 can be of any suitable material, but is preferably of a metal, most preferably of aluminum. A transverse brace 32 is joined to the U-shaped tubing 26 adjacent the ends of the leg portions. Bolt means are positioned in the first set of apertures 28 pivotaly securing the U-shaped tubing element 26 to the side portions of the sheet metal covering 20 of frame 16. A set of parallel spaced lengths of tubing 34, provided with a first set of apertures 36 spaced from the upper ends theerof, and a second set of apertures 38 adjacent the upper ends thereof form with tubing 26 the foldable legs of the pack frame. A transverse brace 40 joined to the lower ends of tubing lengths 34 are provided. Bolt means are positioned in the firstset of aligned apertures 36 securing lengths 34 to the sides of the rigid frame 16. A pair of links 42, having apertures in the ends thereof, are pivotally secured to the U-shaped tubing 26 and the lengths of tubing 34. Bolt means joining the foldable legs and links 42 are positioned in the first set of apertures 30 in the U-shaped tubing 26 and in the end apertures 38 of the lengths 34 and the associated apertures in link 42. The pack frame in use is adapted to be utilized as a carrier for camping equipment and the like when in the folded position shown in FIG. 1, and also as a foldable camp chair with the rigid frame 16 as the seat portion, the top portion of the U-shaped tubing 26 as the seat back, and the lower por- 'tions of the U-shaped tubing and lengths of tubing 34 serving as the foldable legs. The position of the camping frame means utilized as a foldable camp chair is shown in FIG. 2.

Another embodiment of my invention is a combination pack frame, foldable camp table, and foldable camp bed 50 depicted in FIGS. 3-9. My combination pack frame foldable camp table and foldable camp bed has a rigid frame 52 having two spaced and parallel U-shaped portions 54 with a first bar 56 rigidly joined at its ends to the adjacent ends of U-shaped portions 54, and a second bar 58 rigidly joined at its ends to the intermediate portions of .the opposite adjacent leg portions of U-shaped portions 54. The U-shaped portions and bars can be of any suitable type of materiaL- Preferably the bars are hollow tubular elements, preferably of aluminum or other suitable metal. The U-shaped members 54 and bars 56 'and 58 can be secured together with any suitable type of connection as for example by welding, separate fixtures secured to each of the elements, etc. First hinge means 60 are joined to'the ends of the last-mentioned leg portions of frame 52 on the U-shaped members 54. Three spaced bands of flexible material 62 are joined at their respective ends to the base portions of U-shaped portions 54. Bands 62 can -be of any suitable type of material, but preferably is canvas secured by clip means 64 to eyelets 65 secured to the base portions of U-shaped elements 54. Shoulder straps 66 for securing the rigid frame 52 in mounted position are joined to the first and

second bars

56 and 58 of the rigid frame 52. A foldable rectangular frame 68 is pivotally joined to rigid frame 52 with first hinge means 60. The foldable rectangular frame 68 has a first U-shaped portion 70 mounted at the intermediate portions of the. leg portions on first hinge means 60. A second hinge means 72 is provided on the ends of the leg portions of U -shaped portion 70. An intermediate central portion is pivotally joined to the first U-shaped portion 70 at one end thereof by second hinge means 72. The intermediate portion is comprised of two parallel bars 74 and two spaced and bowed transversely extending bars 76 joined to the parallel bars 74. Slidable tubular sleeves 78, mounted on the rectangular frame are adapted to lock the second hinge means 72 in extended relation. A second U-shaped portion 80 having a third hinge means 82 pivotally securing this U-shaped portion to the ends of the intermediate portion 74 is provided. Slidable tubular sleeves 78 are mounted on the rectangular frame to lock the third hinge means 82 in extended relation. Any other suitable locking means can be substituted for sleeves 78. A sheet of material, preferably of canvas 84, is suitably secured to the rectangular frame with lacing 85 in spanning relationship. This sheet of material 84 can be of any suitable type of material either as a unitary sheet or in the form of strips either interlacing or parallel. A third U-shaped leg portion 86 is joined to the rectangular frame with a fourth hinge means 88 positioned at the legs of the U- shaped portion 86 thus pivotally securing same to the second U-shaped portion 80 adjacent the .base portion thereof. A means is provided to lock the U-shaped leg portion 86 in supporting relationship, that is in a generally transverse position relative to the rectangular frame, when it is in unfolded operative relationship. This locking means can be of any suitable type as for example a hinge means 88 that locks, a folding locking bar or the. like. When the pack frame of my invention is set up in unfolded relationship, as illustrated in FIG. 3, it is adapted to be utilized as a camp bed.

When the convertible pack frame of my invention is to be used as a table the height of the rectangular frame 68 is desirably higher than when used as a bed. For this purpose a set of extensible legs is provided. The unfolded position of these legs is depicted in FIG. 5 of the drawings. The extensible legs are comprised of a first set of legs 90 preferably lengths of metal tubing, mounted on the base portions of the U-shaped portions 54 of rigid frame 52. Removable rubber tips 91 can be provided. The legs 90 are pivotally mounted to the rigid frame 52 at pivot points 92. A slidable lock means for locking the legs in extended position is provided, consisting of a slidable cylinder 94 mounted on the base portions of U-shaped portions 54 and having a pin 96. The slidable lock means is clearly shown in FIGS. 6, 7 and 8 of the drawings. When the legs are in extended position as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 and pin 96 is disposed in the open end of leg bar 90, the tip 3'1 being removed. When the legs 90 are rotated in their unfolded position as shown in FIG. 3 the lock means is disposed on rigid frame 52 as shown in FIG. 8 with pins 96 disposed in the opposite ends of legs 90. If desired the extensible legs 90, when in unfolded position, can be secured to lie parallel to the base portions of U-shaped portions 54 by any other suitable means as for example by tying. A second set of leg bars 100 are pivotally mounted on the leg portions of third U-shaped leg portion 86 in generally the same manner that leg bars 90 are mounted on rigid frame 52. A locking means having a slidable cylinder 94 and pin 96 is provided to lock the second set of leg bars 100 in either extended or retracted position. i

A detachable table top 104 comprised of a first rigid sheet of material overlying the first U-shaped portion 70, a second rigid sheet overlying the intermediate portion, and a third rigid sheet of material overlying the second U-shaped portion 80. Clamp means are provided for detachably securing the sections of table top 104 to the respective underlying rectangular frame portions. The leg bars, U-shaped portions, and braces of the aforementioned pack frame of my invention can be made of any suitable type of material. Preferably these elements are made of a hollow tubular metal, preferably aluminum in order to reduce the weight. The various elements can be either welded or otherwise joined with suitable fittings to each other. The pack frame in use is adapted to be alternately used as a carrier for camping equipment, a folding camp bed, or a foldable camp table. As illustrated in FIG. 9 my combination pack frame when in folded position is adapted to receive a pack bag 106 in mounted relation thereon. If desired, additional locking means can be provided for locking the folded sections of the rectangular frame into the position illustrated in FIG. 9. The rectangular frame can be maintained in this position by tying, or by the bag 106, or any other suitable means.

Still another embodiment of my combination pack frame is depicted in FIGS. l0, l1, and 12. My combination pack frame and foldable camp stool 110 has a rigid frame 112 having two parallel curved bars 114 each provided with two apertures 116 spaced from the ends thereof, and two straight bars 118 rigidly joined to the respective adjacent ends of curved bars 114. A canvas sheet 120 is secured to the straight bars 118 and spans the curved bars 114. It is understood that the sheet 120 can be of any suitable type of material such as canvas, plastic, rubber, etc. Furthermore sheet 120 can be in the form of interwoven or parallel strips of material. Two shoulder straps 122 are secured to the rigid frame 112 by hooks 124 secured to curved bars 114. A first set of leg bars 126 is provided with each bar thereof being pivotally secured at its end portion to an end of the straight bars 118 by bolt means 128 and being provided with an aperture 130 in the central portion. A second set of leg bars 132 are pivotally mounted on the first set of leg bars 126. The individual bars of set of bars 132 are joined at the upper ends with a cross bar 133. Each of the second leg bars 132 engage the rigid frame 112 at the junction of one of curved bars 114 and the straight bars 118 to thereby lock the respective first and second leg bars in unfolded supporting relationship. The second set of leg bars 132 are provided with apertures in the center thereof and have a bolt means positioned in the apertures 130 in the first set of leg bars and extending through the respective apertures in said second set of leg bars connecting same in pivotal relationship. A detachable L- frame platform 134 comprising a rigid back portion and a flat extending support portion 136 positioned at the bottom of the back portion and extending at right angles thereto is provided. Four protruding L-shaped hook means 138 are secured to the back portion and positioned so that the extending leg portions of the hooks are insertable in the apertures 116 in the curved bars 114. This relationship is clearly shown in FIG. 12 of the drawings. Thus, the L-frame platform 134 can be detached from the rigid frame portion of the pack frame, and the legs unfolded as shown in FIG. 10 to provide a foldable camp stool. The foldable camp stool has a seat comprised of the rigid frame 112 with the canvas sheet portion 120 serving as a resilient portion. It is understood that the bar members, leg members, etc. of this embodiment can be made of any suitable material and can be secured together in any suitable manner. Preferably the leg bars and associated elements of this preferred embodiment are of a hollow tubular metal, preferably aluminum, and are secured to gether with suitable securing means such as welding, fittings, etc. The pivotal connections can be reinforced with suitable elements if desired.

While I have described and illustrated preferred embodiments of my invention, it is understood that the combination pack frame of my invention as disclosed may be made in other forms than herein described and suggested without departing from the spirit of my invention.

I claim:

1. A pack frame comprising a mountable frame having between opposite sides thereof bar-like members, one outer side of said frame having a camping furniture surface means thereon for use in camping, the other outer side of said frame having resilient support means thereon, a space between said resilient support means and said bar-like members -within the confines of said frame, said resilient support means constructed and adapted for yieldably engaging when in mounted position the back and shoulders of a wearer of same, strap means for se curing said pack frame in mounted position, foldable support means pivotally secured to said frame constructed and adapted to form with said frame an item of portable camping furniture.

2. A combination pack frame and foldable camp chair comprising, a rigid frame having three vertically spaced reinforcing bars, each having a curved surface, a straight surface opposite thereof, and parallel .transverse end surfaces, a rigid sheet metal covering having a U-shaped cross section secured to said reinforcing bars on the straight and end surfaces thereof, three strips of web material, each strip being secured at its end portions to the end surfaces of a reinforcing bar and extending across said curved surface, and two shoulder straps, each affixed at one end portion to the upper reinforcing bar slightly spaced from the center thereof, and affixed at the opposite end to the bottom reinforcing bar slightly spaced from the center thereof, a U-shaped length of aluminum tubing having a first set of apertures in the central portion of each respective leg, and an upper second set of apertures spaced from said first set of apertures, a transverse brace joined to the U-shaped tubing adjacent the ends of the leg portions, bolt means positioned in said first set of apertures pivotally securing said U-shaped tubing to the side portions of sheet metal covering of said rigid frame, a set of parallel spaced lengths of aluminum tubing provided with a first set of apertures spaced from the upper ends thereof, and a second set of apertures adjacent the upper ends thereof, a transverse brace joined to the lower ends of said lengths of tubing, bolt means positioned in said first set of aligned apertures securing said lengths to the s des of the rigid frame, a pair of links pivotally secured to said U-shaped tubing and said lengths of tubing having apertures in the ends thereof, bolt means positioned in said second set of apertures in said U-shaped tubing and in end apertures of said links, and bolt means positioned in said second set of apertures in said length of tubing and opposite end apertures of said links, said pack frame in use adapted to be alternately utilized as a carrier for camping equipment and the like, and also as a foldable camp chair with the rigid frame as the seatportion, the top portion of the U-shaped tubing as a seat back, .and the lower portions of the U-shaped tubing and lengths of tubing functioning as foldable legs.

3. A combination pack frame and foldable camp chair comprising, a rigid frame having vertically spaced reinforcing bars each bar having a curved surface and a straight surface opposite thereof, a rigid covering having a U-shaped cross section secured to said reinforcing bars, resilient means secured to said rigid frame and spanning said curved surface of said reinforcing bars, strap means on said rigid frame adapted to secure same in mounted position, a U-shaped bar pivotally mounted at its center portion to said rigid frame, brace means secured to the end portions of said U-shaped bar, a set of leg bars pivotally mounted at the top portion to said rigid frame, a brace means connecting the lower ends of said set of leg bars, a set of link means, each link means joined at one end to a leg of said U-shaped bar above the pivotal mounting securing same to said rigid frame, and at the other opposite end to the extreme top end of one of said set of leg bars, said pack frame in use adapted to be alternately used as a carrier for camp equipment and the like and also as a folding camp chair with the rigid frame as the seat portion, the top portion of said U-shaped bar as the seat back and the lower portions of the U-shaped bar and length of tubing functioning as legs.

4. A combination pack frame and foldable chair comprising, a rigid frame having parallel curved reinforcing bars, covering means secured to said reinforcing bars, resilient sheet material secured to said rigid frame and spanning said curved reinforcing bars, strap means on said rigid frame for securing same in mounted position, a U-shaped bar pivotally mounted adjacent the center portions of the legs to said rigid frame, leg means having parallel spaced bar portions pivotally mounted at a point spaced from the ends thereof on said rigid frame, a set of link means associated with said U-shaped bar and said leg means, each link being secured at one end portion to said U-shaped bar at a point spaced from the pivotal mounting securing same to said rigid frame and at the opposite end to the extreme top portion of a bar of said leg means, said pack frame in use adapted to be alternately utilized as a carrier for camping equipment and the like and also as a foldable camp chair with the rigid frame as the seat portion and the top portion of said U-shaped bar as a seat back and the lower portions of the U-shaped .bar and leg means functioning as legs.

5. A combination pack frame and foldable camp chair comprising, a mountable frame having between opposite sides thereof bar-like members, one outer side of said frame'having seat means thereon to provide in use a surface on which'to sit, the other outer side of said frame having resilient support means thereon, a space between said resilient support means and said barlike members within the confines of said frame, said resilient support means constructed and adapted for yieldably engaging when in mounted position the back and shoulders of a wearer of same, strap means on said frame means for securing same in mounted position, foldable means secured to said frame means adapted to form with said frame means a foldable camp chair, said foldable means including a first set of relatively long laars pivotally mounted on said rigid frame and includmg a back portion secured to the end portions, relatively short leg portions pivotally secured to said rigid frame, and a link means operatively secured to said first and second leg means to correlate the movement therebetween and hold same in a rigid open position.

6. A combination pack frame and foldable camp stool comprising, a rigid frame having two parallel, curved bars each provided with two apertures spaced from endsthereof, two straight bars rigidly joined to the respective adjacent ends of said curved bars, a canvas sheet secured to said straight bars and spanning said curved bars, a space between said canvas sheet and said curved bars within the confines of said frame, said canvas sheet constructed and adapted for yieldably engaging when in mounted position the back and shoulders of a wearer of same, two hooks secured to each of said curved bars, two shoulder straps secured to said hooks, a first set of leg bars, each leg bar being pivotally secured at its end portion to an end of one of said straight bars and being provided with an aperture in the central portion, a second set of leg bars pivotally mounted on said first set of leg bars, each of said second leg bars adapted to-have an end engage the frame at the junction of said curved and straight bars to thereby lock the respective said first and second set of bars in unfolded supporting relationship, said second set of leg bars provided with apertures in the centers thereof, bolt means positioned in each of said apertures in said first set of bars and extending through the respective apertures in said second set of leg bars connecting same in pivotal relationship, a detachable L-frame platform comprising, a rigid flat back portion, a flat extending support portion positioned at the bottom of said back portion and extending at a right angle thereto, four protruding L-shaped hook means secured to said back portion and positioned so that the extending leg portions of the hooks are insertable in said apertures in said curved bars, said pack frame in use adapted to be alternately utilized as a carrier for camping equipment, and also as a foldable camp stool with the canvas sheet of said rigid frame as a seat, and the leg bars unfolded and supporting said frame.

7. A combination pack frame and foldable camp stool comprising, a rigid frame having parallel curved bars each provided with two apertures spaced from the ends, two straight bars rigidly joined to the respective adjacent ends of said curved bars, a flexible sheet secured to said straight bars, a space between said flexible sheet and said curved bars within the confines of said frame, said flexible sheet constructed and adapted for yieldably engaging when in mounted position the back and shoulders of a wearer of same, shoulder straps secured to said curved bars for maintaining said frame in mounted position, a first set of leg bars, each bar of said first set being pivotally secured in its end portion to one of said straight bars and provided with an aperture in the center portion, a second set of leg bars pivotally mounted at the center portions thereof to said first set of leg bars, bolt means positioned in said apertures in said first set of bars pivotally securing said second set of leg bars to said first set of leg bars, a detachable L-frame platform comprising, a rigid back portion, hook means secured to said back portion insertable in said apertures in said curved bars of said rigid frame, and a flat rigid extending support portion secured to the bottom of said back portion, said pack frame in use adapted to be alternately utilized as a carrier for camping equipment, and also as a fold ing camp stool with the resilient sheet of said rigid frame sewing as a seat and the leg bars unfolded and supporting said rigid frame.

8. A combination pack frame and foldable camp stool comprising, a rigid frame having generally parallel curved bars, elongated bars rigidly joined to the respective end of said curved bars, a resilient sheet of material securedto said elongated bars, a space between said resilient sheet of material and said curved bars Within the confines of said frame, said resilient sheet of material constructed and adapted for yieldably engaging when in mounted position the back and shoulders of a wearer of same, strap means secured to said rigid frame adapted to secure same in mounted position, a first set of leg bars, each of said first set of leg bars being pivotally secured at its end portion to one of said elongated bars, a second set of leg bars, each of said second leg bars being pivotally mounted on the intermediate portion of one of said first set of legs at the intermediate portion thereof, a detachable platform means comprising a back portion, means on said back portion to detachably secure same to said rigid frame, and an extending bottom portion joined to said back portion, said pack frame in use adapted to be alternatelyutilized as a carrier for camping equipment and the like, and also as a folding stool with the resilient sheet of said rigid frame as the seat and the leg bars unfolded in supporting relation thereto.

9. A combination pack frame and foidable camp stool comprising, a mountable frame having between opposite sides thereof bar-like members, one outer side of said frame having seat means thereon to provide in use a surface-on which to sit, the other outer side of said frame having resilient support means thereon, a space between said resilient support means and said bar-like members Within the confines of said frame, said resilient support means constructed and adapted for yieldably engaging when in mounted position the back and shoulders of a wearer of same, strap means on said frame means for securing same in mounted position, foldable means secured to said frame means adapted to form with said frame means a foldable camp stool, said foldable means including leg bars pivotally mounted on said frame means and adapted to be secured in rigid supporting relation and also in folded compact relationship, a detachable platform means mountable on said frame means, said pack frame adapted to be used alternately as a pack frame for carrying camping equipment and the like, and also as a foldable stool With the resilient support means of said frame means as the seat and the foldable means unfolded in supporting relation thereto.

10. A combination pack frame, foldab-le camp table, and foldable camp bed comprising, a rigid frame comprising, two spaced and parallel U-shaped portions, a first bar rigidly joined at its ends to adjacent ends of said U-shaped portions, and a second bar rigidly joined at its ends to the intermediate portions of the opposite adjacent leg portions of said U-shaped portions, first hinge means joined to the ends of said last-mentioned leg portions, three spaced bands of flexible material joined at their respective ends to the base portions of said U-shaped portions, a space between said bands of flexible material and said bars within the confines of said frame, said bands of flexible material constructed and adapted for yieldably engaging when in mounted position the back and shoulders of a wearer of same, shoulder straps for securing said rigid frame in mounted position joined to said first and second bars of same, a foldable rectangular frame comprising, a first U-shaped portion pivotally mounted at the intermediate portions of the leg portions on said first hinge means, a second hinge means on the ends of the leg portions of said first U-shaped portion, an intermediate central portion pivotally secured to said first U-shaped portion at one end thereof by said second hinge means, said intermediate portion comprised of two parallel bars and two spaced and bowed transversely extending bars joined to same, a slidable tubular sleeve mounted on said rectangular frame adapted to lock said second hinge in extended relation, a second U-shaped portion, third hinge means pivotally securing said second U-shaped portion at the ends of the legs thereof to the intermediate portion, a slidable tubular sleeve mounted on said rectangular frame adapted to lock said third hinge means in extended relation, a sheet of canvas secured to said rectangular frame and spanning same, a third U-shaped leg portion,

fourth hinge means positioned on the ends of the legs of said third U-shaped portion pivotally securing same to said second U-shaped portion adjacent the base por tion thereof, extensible leg means comprising, a first set of legs pivotally mounted on the base portions of said U-shaped portions of said rigid frame, slidable lock means on said last-mentioned base portions for locking said first set of legs in either extended or retracted position, a second set of leg bars pivotally mounted on the leg portions of said third U-shaped leg portion, slidable lock means on the legs of said third U-shaped portion to lock said second set of leg bars in either extended or retracted position, a detachable table top comprising, a first rigid sheet of material overlying said first U- shaped portion, a second rigid sheet of material overlying said intermediate portion and a third rigid sheet of materal overlying said second U-shaped portion, clamp means for detachably securing said table top to the respective underlying rectangular frame portions,-

said pack frame in use adapted to be alternately used as a carrier for camping equipment, a foldable camp bed, and a foldable camp table.

11. A combination pack frame, foldable camp table, and foldable camp bed, comprising, a rigid frame comprising spaced and parallel ,U-shaped portions, a first bar rigidly joined at its ends to the adjacent ends of said U-shaped portions, a second bar rigidly joined at its ends to the intermediate portions of the opposite adjacent leg portions of said U-shaped portions, and spaced bands of flexible material joined to the base portions of said U-shaped portions, a space between said bands of flexible material and said bars within the confines of said frame, said bands of flexible material constructed and adapted for yieldably engaging When in mounted position the back and shoulders of a wearer of same, strap means secured to said rigid frame for securing same in mounted position, a foldable rectangular frame comprising, a first U-shaped portion pivotally mounted at the intermediate portions of the leg portions on said first hinge means, an intermediate central portion pivotally secured to said first U-shaped portion, a second U- shaped portion pivotally secured to said intermediate portion, means to lock the portions of said rectangular frame in a rigid planar position, a resilient sheet of material secured to said rectangular frame, a third U-shaped leg portion pivotally secured at the ends of the legs thereof to said third U-shaped portion adjacent the base portion of same, extensible leg means comprising, a first set of legs on said rigid frame pivotally mounted on the base portions of said U-shaped portions of said rigid frame, lock means for securing same in either extended or retracted positions, a second set of leg means pivotally mounted on the leg portions of said third U-shaped leg portion, lock means for selectively securing said second set of leg bars in either retracted or extended positions, a detachable table top comprising a first rigid sheet of material overlying said first U-shaped portion, a second rigid sheet of material overlying said intermediate portion, and a third rigid sheet of material overlying said second U-shaped portion, clamp means for detachably securing said table top sections to the respective underlying rectangular frame, said pack frame in use adapted to be alternately used as a carrier for camping equipment and the like, a foldable bed, and a foldable camp table.

12. A combination pack frame, foldable camp table and foldable camp bed comprising, a rigid frame comprising, .t'wo spaced and parallel U-shaped portions, and means joining said U-shaped portions in spaced relationship, spaced bands of material joined at their respective ends to the base portions of said U-shapcd portions, a space between said spaced bands of material and means joining said U-shaped portions Within the confines of said frame, said spaced bands of material constructed and adapted for yieldably engaging when in mounted position the back and shoulders of a wearer of same, strap means secured to said rigid frame for securing same in mounted position, a foldable rectangular frame pivotally secured to said rigid frame comprising, a first U-shaped portion pivotally mounted at the intermediate portions of the leg portions to said rigid frame, an intermediate portion pivotally secured to said first U- shaped portion, a second U shaped portion pivotally secured to said intermediate central portion, means to lock the portions of said rectangular frame in a planar relationship, leg means pivotally secured to said third U- shaped portion, a resilient sheet of material secured to said rectangular frame, extensible leg means comprising, leg bars pivotally mounted on said U-shaped portions of said rigid frame, lock means for securing said leg bars in operative position, a second set of leg bars secured to said leg means, lock means for securing said leg bars to said leg means in an operative position, a sectioned detachable table top mounted on said rectangular frame, clamp means for detachably securing said table top to said rectangular frame, said pack frame in use adapted to be alternately used as a carrier for camping equipment, a foldable camp bed, and a foldable camp table.

13. A combination pack frame and foldable camp bed, comprising a rigid frame comprised of two spaced and parallel U-shaped portions, means rigidly securing otally joined to an intermediate central portion, a flexible sheet means secured to said rectangular frame spanning same, leg means secured to said rectangular frame opposite said rigid frame, said pack frame in use adapted to be alternately used as a carrier for camping equipment and the like and a foldable camp bed.

14. A combination pack frame and foldable camp bed comprising, a mountable frame having between opposite sides thereof bar-like members, one outer side of said frame having bed means thereon to provide in use a surface, on which to lay, the other outer side of said frame having resilient support means thereon, a space between said resilient support means and said bar-like members within the confines of said frame, said resilient support means constructed and adapted for yieldably engaging when in mounted position the back and shoulders of a wearer of same, strap means on said frame means for securing same in mounted position, foldable means secured to said frame means adapted to form with said frame means a foldable camp bed, said foldable means including a sectioned rectangular frame pivotally mounted on said frame means, a flexible material secured to and spanning said rectangular frame, and a foldable support means on the end of said rectangular frame opposite said frame means for supporting same, said pack frame in use adapted to be alternately used as a carrier for camping equipment and a foldable camp bed with the rectangular frame as the support means thereof.

15. A combination pack frame and foldable camp table comprising, a mountable frame having between opposite sides thereof bar-like members, one outer side of said frame having table means thereonto provide in use a surface on which to eat, the other outer side of said frame having resilient support means thereon, a space between said resilient support means and said bar-like members within the confines of said frame, said resilient support means constructed and adapted for yieldably engaging when in mounted position the back and shoulders of a wearer of same, strap means on said frame means for securing same in mounted position, foldable means secured to said frame means adapted to form with said frame means a foldable camp table, said foldable means including a foldable rectangular frame means pivotally secured to said frame means, foldable support means for said rectangular frame means mounted opposite said mountable frame means, and a rigid, fiat, sectioned top means overlying said rectangular frame.

References Cited by the Examiner UNITED STATES PATENTS 2,689,603 9/1954 Smith 297-24 2,843,185 7/1958 Clem l50 2,964,222 12/ 1960 Rainwater 224- 9 GERALD M. FQRLENZA, Primary Examiner. HUGO O. SCHULZ, Examiner.

Claims

1. A PACK FRAME COMPRISING A MOUNTABLE FRAME HAVING BETWEEN OPPOSITE SIDES THEREOF BAR-LIKE MEMBERS, ONE OUTER SIDE OF SAID FRAME HAVING A CAMPING FURNITURE SURFACE MEANS THEREON FOR USE IN CAMPING, THE OTHER OUTER SIDE OF SAID FRAME HAVING RESILIENT SUPPORT MEANS THEREON, A SPACED BETWEEN SAID RESILIENT SUPPORT MEANS AND SAID BAR-LIKE MEMBERS WITHIN THE CONFINES OF SAID FRAME, SAID RESILIENT SUPPORT MEANS CONSTRUCTED AND ADAPTED FOR YIELDABLE ENGAGING WHEN IN MOUNTED POSITION THE BACK AND SHOULDERS OF A WEARER OF SAME, STRAP MEANS FOR SECURING SAID PACK FRAME IN MOUNTED POSITION, FOLDABLE SUPPORT MEANS PIVOTALLY SECURED TO SAID FRAME CONSTRUCTED AND ADAPTED TO FORM WITH SAID FRAME AN ITEM OF PORTABLE CAMPING FURNITURE.