Abstract:
A bed-tent provides an enclosure over a mattress. The tent forms a canopy having panels each with a resilient, strip frame member and a sheet of flexible fabric. Retainers secure the canopy on the mattress. In some forms, a frame member disposed externally of the canopy helps to hold the panels and canopy upright. In other forms, the frame members are configured so that no additional support is needed to hold the panels and/or bed tent upright on a bed. The frame members may be readily adapted for use in curved or rectilinear panels to permit a wide range of bed tent designs and features. The frame members preferably can be twisted or wound into flat coils of reduced diameter or other form so that the entire canopy can be conveniently stored in a small package.

Description:
REFERENCE TO RELATED, CO-PENDING APPLICATION  
       [0001]     This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/649,036, filed on Aug. 27, 2003. 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD  
       [0002]     Portable tents are well-known and can be used for many different purposes. This invention relates to tents adaptable for indoor use. More particularly, the tent of this invention incorporates a bottom portion adapted to be fitted over a conventional mattress. Known in the prior art as a Bed-tent, this embodiment is especially popular for use as a children&#39;s toy.  
       BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY  
       [0003]     Prior art Bed-tents consist of some sort of a fabric covered pole structure, which rests on the top surface of a conventional bed mattress. Prior art Bed-tents utilize semi-rigid, bowed poles which place the cover or canopy under tension; the tension is provided by bending the support poles and securing them with a canopy which is attached to the mattress. Bed-tents have enjoyed commercial success but have always presented problems of various types.  
         [0004]     One of the principal problems with prior art Bed-tents is that associated with erecting them. Prior art Bed-tents require simultaneous assembly of an independent pole structure and a separate canopy, and the user must be familiar with an exacting set-up procedure. The process begins with unpacking a bewildering assortment of pole segments and an enormous, shapeless canopy. Segments of different-length poles are connected and passed through a specific sequence of fabric sleeves or the like; the sleeves and canopy form a confusing labyrinth and choosing the correct pole for the correct sleeve makes this an unforgiving process. Each pole is then secured at both ends by insertion into a flexible pocket affixed to the canopy; the user must combat the tension of each pole during this process which becomes more difficult as more poles are added. Further, the finished set-up shape is completely unrecognizable when the structure&#39;s components are laid out; only after the final pole is secured does the Bed-tent&#39;s shape become apparent. It is no surprise that the instruction manuals for prior-art Bed-tents caution, “Adult assembly required.” 
         [0005]     Further complicating the set-up procedure, all prior-art Bed-tents place the flexible frame members inside the canopy, where access is limited during set-up and assembly. Original Bed-tent U.S. Pat. No. 4,852,598 describes, “elongated flexible frame members adapted to support said canopy means over said mattress when positioned between said top surface of said mattress and said canopy means.” Erecting such Bed-tents requires adults to climb inside the partially supported, trembling canopy while securing the internal pole structure in an exact position. As most adults cannot fit inside prior-art Bed-tents, which are designed to attach to a child&#39;s twin size mattress, the torments above are greatly multiplied.  
         [0006]     Ease of set-up is a strong consideration for adults purchasing toys such as a Bed-tent. In short, parents generally will not tolerate time-consuming assembly of toy products and frequently return a product to the retailer if assembly is too difficult. Present day Bed-tents suffer the significant liability of an extra-ordinarily high return percentage. Most Bed-tents are currently sold through mail-order outlets, which offer generous return privileges; traditional retailers no longer distribute the prior art product.  
         [0007]     Attempts have been made to simplify the task of erecting the Bed-tent. U.S. Pat. No. 4,590,956 proved too difficult to assemble because of an integrated canopy and fitted sheet which attached to the mattress. U.S. Pat. No. 4,852,598 eliminated the integral fitted sheet and thus simplified the set-up procedure but only to a small degree.  
         [0008]     A Bed-tent is disclosed herein which eliminates the internal frame assembly of the prior art. This Bed-tent instead utilizes a flexible, resilient strip material induced by a non-stretch fabric to form a weight-bearing panel. By itself the strip sags and offers no support, however because the strip is secured at generally all points of it&#39;s perimeter by the attached non-stretch fabric, it can bear considerable weight. The weight-bearing capacity of the resilient strip is increased by the provision of anchoring means or retainers, such as elastic bands, which releasably attach the structure to the mattress.  
         [0009]     The strip material may be made of plastic, metal, fiber composite or the like and is collapsed by turning or twisting into a packed generally flat disk as illustrated. The strip may be a closed annulus and with the covering fabric forms a panel that is circular, oval, elliptical or generally square, rectangular or triangular with acute or truncated corners. It should be noted that different-shaped panels can be used interchangeably. The strip may also be open-ended rather than a closed annulus to form an arch-type panel; the strip(s) may be permanently or removably attached to the fabric cover to allow washing of the fabric. It may also include a coupling means that permits the abutting ends of the strip material to rotate with respect to each other to simplify the collapsing process. The panel incorporates openings for doors and/or windows and retains the weight-bearing feature.  
         [0010]     One presently preferred embodiment of a Bed-tent is comprised of two opposing panels, a releasably connected pole to maintain them generally upright and a flexible fabric canopy, which forms an enclosure. The pole is segmented for folding and made of plastic, fiberglass or the like and may be adapted, as a non-limiting example, by forming an upside-down “V” for increased headroom inside the structure. The pole can be placed inside or outside of the canopy; the preferred embodiment utilizes an external pole to provide full accessibility while assembling and disassembling the structure. The resilient strip of the preferred embodiment may be substituted by semi-rigid members made of fiberglass, plastic or the like and made of segmented pieces and connected by an elastic cord, or telescoped, for ease of storage. Semi-rigid frame members may be utilized in the manner as prior bed-tent U.S. Pat. No. 4,852,598; however positioned outside the canopy for ease of assembly.  
         [0011]     Similar to the preferred embodiment, a related arrangement is comprised of three panels (rather than two) and a canopy, which forms an enclosure. The additional panel is arranged along the third side of the structure; the pole, while not required, preferably supports the canopy and a fourth side of the structure. The three panels may also be arranged as two opposite sides and roof, in which case the pole may be eliminated, but this structure may be less stable.  
         [0012]     A further related arrangement incorporates four panels and a fabric canopy to form an enclosure. As above, three panels are arranged along the sides of the structure. The additional panel supports the roof; the pole may be eliminated without loss of stability. One panel may also be arranged on each of the four sides of the structure and, as in the previous arrangement, the pole may be eliminated. However, in this arrangement at least one pole—or pole assemblies—may be releasably attached between the panels to provide for vestibules, awnings, wings, fins or other aesthetic and/or semi-functional adaptions. This latter arrangement may also accommodate a fifth panel to support the roof. Some embodiments with more than two panels may be easier to set-up and disassemble by the provision of at least one releasable coupling on one or more of the panels.  
         [0013]     The panels can be adapted to provide increased stability. For example, panels suffer from buckling or bowing along the length of the mattress or when wider mattresses are contemplated; larger panels are also difficult to collapse. To increase the stability of the structure and to simplify the collapsing process, both the resilient strip and covering fabric of the panels may be adapted in several ways. Two strips, which overlie each other on a portion thereof in the same panel, provide more support than a single residual strip and collapse as usual. A panel utilizing a resilient strip formed in a “figure 8” arrangement (which is essentially two smaller panels) increases stability and collapses as usual. The “figure 8” arrangement can turn the corner of the mattress and thereby form at least a portion of two sides of the structure. Similarly, a larger panel may be comprised of two or more smaller panels in the same plane; the smaller panels can be adjoined or spaced apart and connected by an interconnecting piece of fabric, which is part of the panel. Adjoining panels may also be overlapped by a further panel secured to them by Velcro®, buttons, snap-fit engagements or ties as common in the art. Maximum stability is gained by overlapped panels secured by stitching or the like. In such an arrangement, one panel “pierces” the fabric covering of another panel and is stitched at the intersection point to the pierced panel. The overlapped panels pivot around the intersection point; when pivoted in one direction, the panels lie atop each other and collapse as usual. When pivoted in the opposite direction, the overlapped section of the panels prevents them from moving beyond an in-line configuration with each other. Two overlapped, intersecting panels in the same plane form a very stable equivalent of one larger panel. Similarly, two overlapped, intersecting panels in perpendicular planes form a very stable right-angle configuration for the corners of a structure. Elastic bands, attached to the outside distal section of the panels, maintain the overlapped panels in a right-angle configuration when stretched over the corners of the mattress.  
         [0014]     An even simpler arrangement utilizes only a single resilient strip to form the frame of the structure, however it is the least stable of the embodiments. The single strip is induced by the fabric into a saddle-shaped annulus comprised of four serially-connected arches; each arch forms one side of a rectangle which corresponds generally to the shape of a bed mattress. The first arch is upwardly-shaped along the length of the mattress, the second arch is shaped downwardly as it traverses the mattress end, the third arch is again upwardly-shaped along the length of the opposite side of the mattress, the fourth arch is downwardly-shaped and traverses the opposite end of the mattress. A similar arrangement turns the saddle-shaped annulus upside down. Embodiments illustrated in the following figures include a resilient strip which crosses at the apex of the annulus in the formation of a “figure 8” with the arches of the “8” extending downwards to form the sides of the structure.  
         [0015]     Bending or pre-forming the resilient strip of these embodiments contributes significant advantages. Strip members shaped at the four corners conform to the rectangular shape of the mattress instead of assuming a circular or oval shape which expands over the edges of the bed. The shaping also increases the internal “living space” of the structure. Similarly, bending the upward strip so it is approximately flat instead of arched raises the structure&#39;s height and increases “headroom” for the user. To facilitate bending of the resilient strip material, rounded stock (rather than flat stock) of plastic, metal, fiber composite or the like is preferred but not required. Rounded stock “takes” a bend in any direction more readily than flat stock which bends easily in one plane but not in the other.  
         [0016]     Instead of a single strip, the structure of my invention may utilize two or more resilient strips for enhanced stability. Certain embodiments may include a second or third strip inside the same or separate fabric channels. The strips may be made from a continuous piece of strip material or from separate strips. Multiple strip embodiments also allow for frames made of different material and diameters; for example in one embodiment, the member forming the base of the Bed-tent is made of a lighter, reduced diameter, less-expensive stock than the upward-shaped member. Rotatable connectors between the ends of the strip material eases the folding of the structure and allows embodiments with base strip members to lay flat after assembly. The rotatable connector(s) may be designed to couple the separate strip members although such coupling is not required.  
         [0017]     Another embodiment of the present invention utilizes a single continuous resilient strip, which forms the base of the structure. The fabric canopy is supported by one or more open-ended resilient strips formed into an arch shape by a fabric channel affixed to the base by stitching or the like. A pivoting junction, affixed to the base loop is a further non-limiting attachment means. To assemble the structure, the open-ended resilient strips are raised generally vertically and attached to the canopy by ties, tabs, Velcro® or the like. To collapse the structure, at least one open-ended resilient strip is detached from the canopy, allowing both open-ended strips to lie atop of the resilient base strip. The structure is collapsed by folding as usual. Both the base strip and the open-ended strip(s) can be bent, as previously described, to better conform to the rectangular shape of the mattress.  
         [0018]     To assemble the bed-tent, the resilient strip pops open and virtually “self-erects” when shaken by the user. The segmented pole, when required, is unfolded and inserted into a flexible fabric sleeve or flexible pole-pockets attached to the canopy. Placing the structure on top of the bedding, the user fits elastic band retainers or the like, attached to the four corners of the bed-tent, over the four corners of the mattress. Elastic bands readily adapt to the user&#39;s bedding and to mattresses of varying thicknesses, whether 8 or 18 inches or any size. A similar means incorporates fabric pockets stitched to the ends of the structure. Both arrangements allow the bed-tent to be attached on top of bedding such as sheets and blankets. A third arrangement, attaches the structure to a conventional fitted sheet, but the user&#39;s bedding is partially or fully covered thereby. While the bed-tent of my invention is preferably attached to the top of a mattress, it can be adapted for a lower position on the bed: elastic bands or fabric sections, fitted between the mattress and box spring, or on top of the top mattress, or both, affix the bed-tent to the peripheral sides of the mattress and prevent the structure from sliding to the floor. This arrangement allows for bedding to be “tucked in” in the normal manner and otherwise includes all the features and forms disclosed previously.  
         [0019]     To disassemble the bed-tent, the user detaches the elastic bands or the like from the mattress. When a segmented pole is used, it is detached from the structure and folded. If overlapped panels are used, they are manipulated to lie upon each other. The panels are collapsed as illustrated.  
         [0020]     Accordingly, several advantages and benefits of the present invention are described hereinafter.  
         [0000]     Base of Assembly  
         [0021]     The bed-tents are uniquely easy to assemble. When shaken by the user, the collapsed panels pop open and virtually self-erect; the structure&#39;s finished set-up shape is immediately recognizable. The structure is attached to the mattress by elastic bands or the like in a manner common to the bedding industry. The bed-tents can be easily assembled by a novice or first-time user; there is no “adult assembly required.” Children six years old can assemble their own bed-tents without adult assistance and feel a sense of accomplishment. To disassemble the bed-tent, the assembly process is reversed and the resilient strip(s) collapsed by folding or winding as described in the accompanying drawings.  
         [0000]     Adaptable Design  
         [0022]     The bed-tents permit a wide range of shapes by providing for increased adaptability of the structure&#39;s framing members. Some embodiments of the bed-tents utilize a segmented pole located outside the bed-tent canopy. Because the pole is accessible, users can conveniently and with minimal expense attach additional frame members for aesthetic or semi-functional purposes conveniently and with minimal expense. For example, frame members can be added to support extensions of the canopy such as awnings, verandas, vestibules or covered windows. Elements such as wings, fins or the like can be added to increase aesthetic options. The toy industry&#39;s commercial viability depends upon new shapes and designs which the bed-tent richly provides; this is a significant advantage in the crowded, competitive field of children&#39;s toys. Finally, the bed-tents can easily be adapted for larger mattresses by increasing the size or number of the panel(s) and enlarging the canopy.  
         [0000]     Fewer Parts  
         [0023]     Prior art bed-tent structures required as many as seven separate rods or at least two framing assemblies. One presently preferred embodiment of a bed-tent utilizes one pole, with segments interconnected via elastic shock cord or telescoped as is customary in the art. Other embodiments eliminate the pole and instead utilize additional flexible panels as described above. In addition to using fewer parts, some embodiments of the bed-tents eliminate the possibility of lost parts.  
         [0000]     Speedier Assembly  
         [0024]     Still another improvement in the bed-tents is the speed of assembly. In the preferred embodiment, poles rapidly self-assemble by means of an integrated, tensioned cord. The panels pop open instantly. The structure quickly attaches to the mattress with a few elastic bands. Other bed-tent embodiments, without the pole, require only to be popped open before attachment to the mattress. Adults and especially children will appreciate the increased speed in erecting their bed-tents.  
         [0000]     Safety  
         [0025]     A still further improvement of my bed-tent is safety and reliability. Prior art bed-tents, which secured the poles inside the canopy with fabric ties and the like, posed a potential hazard of the child&#39;s strangulation on the framing members. The pole of my invention is located out of harm&#39;s reach outside of the canopy. Embodiments utilizing a pole bend readily and can flatten all the way to the mattress and recover to their original position. The flexible strip(s) bend to absorb stress from any direction without breakage. Access from inside the bed-tent to the elastic straps which attach the structure to the mattress, is prohibited. Further, the bed-tents are devoid of small loose parts that can be mistakenly swallowed by a child.  
         [0026]     My bed-tent&#39;s structure and attachment means remain secured to the mattress despite considerable lateral force applied against them. A surprising and unexpected result is that at least some embodiments of the bed-tents can actually catch and hold a small child who might otherwise fall to the floor. A larger child&#39;s fall is slowed and possible impact lessened. While especially effective when closed, a partially opened bed-tent can also perform this important function.  
         [0000]     Child Friendly Shape  
         [0027]     The bed-tents preferably rest on an approximately rectangular, open base attached to the mattress. The open base and attachment means enable the bed-tent to fit over a child&#39;s favorite bedding; no specialized sheets, blankets, etc., are required. Further, removal of sheets or blankets is not necessary for assembly or disassembly of the structure. Bedding, including fitted sheets beneath the structure, can be neatened in the normal manner. The vertical sidewalls of my invention provide for full utilization of the mattress so pillows, blankets and toys may be pushed all the way to the edge. Finally, the bed-tents desirably can provide a consistent height throughout the entire length of the bed-tent for maximum use of the internal space.  
         [0000]     Less Expensive  
         [0028]     Nature&#39;s most efficient shape (maximum internal volume with minimum surface area) is a sphere. Due to the circular, elliptical or arch shape of certain portions of some embodiments of my bed-tents, they may enclose more cubic living space per given amount of fabric than any prior-art bed-tent. Putting this another way, to provide a structure of given internal size, the bed-tent of my invention requires less fabric. The consistent height of my preferred embodiment also eliminates fabric waste as full widths of material can be utilized. Because my invention eliminates the apex common to all prior-art bed-tents, costly workmanship to cut and sew irregular fabric patterns is minimized. Finally, the bed-tents eliminate the obvious disadvantage of breakage suffered by prior art bed-tents, which are ruined if a single frame member fails. Present-day bed-tent manufacturers employ costly service departments, which serve primarily to replace broken frame members.  
         [0000]     Compact and Portable  
         [0029]     The bed-tents preferably fold into a compact flat disc. Weight of the packed bed-tent is evenly balanced for ease of transport. The segmented pole is folded into a small bundle as common in the prior art. Containerizing, shipping and insurance costs are correspondingly reduced.  
         [0030]     The features, advantages and objects of my invention, which are explicit and implicit in the foregoing, as well as others, will become apparent and more fully understood from the following description of the invention made in connection with the accompanying drawings. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0031]     These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments and best mode, appended claims and accompanying drawings in which:  
         [0032]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a bed-tent including a canopy and a supporting frame, constructed in accordance with the invention and shown positioned over a mattress in preparation for mounting the bed-tent on the mattress;  
         [0033]      FIG. 2  is an enlarged perspective view showing a corner of the canopy attached to the mattress;  
         [0034]      FIG. 3  is an enlarged fragmentary perspective view of a portion of  FIG. 1  showing clips attaching the canopy to a portion of the supporting frame;  
         [0035]      FIG. 4  is an end view of the canopy, showing one end panel thereof in which parts are broken away. The end panel at the opposite end of the canopy is exactly like to end panel shown;  
         [0036]      FIG. 5  is a perspective view of the supporting frame;  
         [0037]      FIG. 6  is a fragmentary perspective view showing two segments of a leg of the supporting frame separated from one another;  
         [0038]      FIG. 7  is a fragmentary perspective view of portions of the supporting frame;  
         [0039]      FIG. 8  is an end view showing the canopy in the process of being folded for storage;  
         [0040]      FIG. 9  is an end view showing the canopy completely folded and ready for storage;  
         [0041]      FIG. 10  is a perspective view showing the canopy folded and disposed within a transparent package;  
         [0042]      FIG. 11  is a perspective view showing the supporting frame in which the segments thereof are separated and folded and fitted into a transparent package;  
         [0043]      FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a transversely split hoop shown as it is initially being twisted for storage;  
         [0044]      FIG. 13  is a perspective view of the hoop of  FIG. 12  shown fully twisted for storage;  
         [0045]      FIGS. 14-17  show a hoop in a sequence of steps by which it is wound into a flat coil of reduced diameter for storage;  
         [0046]      FIG. 18  is a perspective view of a bed-tent of modified construction, also according to the invention, shown positioned over a mattress prior to being mounted thereon;  
         [0047]      FIG. 19  is a perspective view of the bed-tent of  FIG. 18  shown attached to the mattress;  
         [0048]      FIG. 20  is a view of a hoop employed in the bed-tent of  FIGS. 18 and 19 ;  
         [0049]      FIG. 21  is an enlarged fragmentary detail of a portion of the hoop indicated at  21  in  FIG. 20 ;  
         [0050]      FIG. 22  is a further enlargement showing the coupling between the ends of the hoop;  
         [0051]      FIG. 23  is a perspective view of a bed-tent according to further modification;  
         [0052]      FIG. 24  is a top view of the twisted hoop employed in the embodiment of  FIG. 23 ;  
         [0053]      FIG. 25  is a view of the hoop employed in  FIG. 23 , shown untwisted and within a stitched margin of fabric material, but omitting the fabric material of the bed-tent;  
         [0054]      FIGS. 26-28  show the bed-tent of  FIG. 23  being folded and finally packaged.  
         [0055]      FIG. 29  is a perspective view of one implementation of a bed-tent positioned on a mattress;  
         [0056]      FIG. 30  is an enlarged fragmentary perspective view of a portion of the bed-tent in  FIG. 29 ;  
         [0057]      FIG. 31  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment bed-tent wherein opposed end panels extend beyond an upper surface of a mattress;  
         [0058]      FIG. 32  is a perspective view of another implementation of a bed-tent wherein the end panels and side panels extend below the top surface of a mattress;  
         [0059]      FIG. 33  is a perspective view of another implementation of a bed-tent including a pair of side panels and a roof panel supported by coilable hoops;  
         [0060]      FIG. 34  is a perspective view of another implementation of a bed-tent including three generally rectangular and collapsible panels;  
         [0061]      FIG. 35  is a perspective view of another implementation of a bed-tent including three generally rectangular panels and a pole spanning two of the panels;  
         [0062]      FIG. 36  is a perspective view of a modified bed-tent including three generally rectangular sides with at least one of the sides formed from a pair of generally rectangular and overlapped panels;  
         [0063]      FIG. 37  is a perspective view of a modified bed-tent including four generally rectangular panels;  
         [0064]      FIG. 38  is a perspective view of a modified bed-tent including four generally rectangular side panels and a generally rectangular roof panel;  
         [0065]      FIG. 39  is a perspective view of a modified bed-tent including four generally rectangular sides with one or more sides being defined by overlapped panels;  
         [0066]      FIG. 40  is a perspective view of a modified bed-tent including four generally rectangular sides defined by panels that may overlap in a common plane and in perpendicular planes at the corners of the bed-tent;  
         [0067]      FIG. 41  is a plan view of a panel for a bed-tent having a generally rectangular shape and being supported by a “figure 8”-shaped resilient strip;  
         [0068]      FIG. 42  is an end view of a panel including a supporting frame comprising an inner resilient strip and an outer resilient strip;  
         [0069]      FIG. 43  is an enlarged fragmentary view of the encircled portion  15  in  FIG. 42 ;  
         [0070]      FIG. 44  is a perspective view of a modified bed-tent;  
         [0071]      FIG. 45  is a perspective view of a bed-tent frame structure;  
         [0072]      FIG. 46  is a perspective view of a modified bed-tent frame structure formed differently from the frame structure of  FIG. 45 ;  
         [0073]      FIG. 47  is a perspective view of a modified bed-tent frame structure comprising multiple frame members;  
         [0074]      FIG. 48  is a perspective view of a modified bed-tent; and  
         [0075]      FIG. 49  is a perspective view of a modified bed-tent.  
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
       [0076]     Referring now more particularly to the drawings, and especially  FIGS. 1 and 2 , there is shown a bed-tent  10  for sheltering at least one person. The bed-tent  10  is shown disposed over the top surface  12  of a mattress  14  of a bed, prior to being mounted thereon. The mattress  14  is preferably of the usual rectangular shape, having a peripheral edge  16  and four corners  18 . The bed-tent  10  is intended to be occupied by one child, although more than one child may occupy the bed-tent if desired and if permitted by a supervising adult.  
         [0077]     The bed-tent  10  comprises a canopy  19  having an open base  20  generally co-extensive with the peripheral edge  16  of the mattress. The canopy has end panels  22  and  24 , and a flexible fabric cover  26 . A supporting frame  28  holds the end panels in longitudinally spaced, generally upright position.  
         [0078]     The end panels  22  and  24  are preferably of identical construction, each comprising a sheet  30  of substantially non-stretchable flexible fabric and a framing member in the form of hoop  32  of flexible, resilient strip material such as spring steel, composite rod or plastic, for example. Each hoop may be a continuous annulus or it may be transversely split with abutting ends at the split or open-ended to provide for an arch shape hoop (not shown). The hoops may be circular throughout a full 360° or they may be other than circular as by being of oval shape as shown in  FIG. 4 . Not shown are further shapes including circles or ovals incorporating one square corner, two square corners (a continuous arch annulus), triangular, approximately square or rectangular; the corners of these versions may be curved or acute. The hoops of each end panel preferably are disposed in the plane of the sheet  30  and are secured to the outer edge of the sheet, as by folding the outer edge over the hoop and stitching the folded-over outer edge to the sheet. For additional strength a second hoop of strip material (not shown) can be secured to the outer edge of the sheet. The first and second hoops can be formed of a single unitary piece of strip material. Finally, this second hoop can be adapted to be secured to the first hoop along a limited periphery thereof (not shown). The portion of the sheets  30  within each hoop  32  is held taut by the hoop and resists distortion or collapse of the hoop. A screened window opening  31  is provided in the sheet  30  of at least one end panel.  
         [0079]     The cover  26  is made of substantially non-stretchable, flexible fabric and extends between the end panels  22  and  24 . The cover  26  is held fairly taut by having its ends stitched or otherwise secured to the margins of the end panels as by a zipper, for example and to the side edges of extensions  33  of the sheets  30 . The cover  26  defines the sides and top of the canopy. One side of the cover  26  has a cut away portion providing a flap  35  that may be folded back to form an opening for access to the interior of the canopy. The flap serves as a closure for the opening when extended across the opening and held shut by a zipper or other fastening device.  
         [0080]     Two flexible retainers, preferably in the form of elastic straps  40  are secured to extensions  33  of the sheet  30  of each end panel  22 ,  24 . The straps  40  are adapted to be extended over the four corners of the mattress  14  to hold the tent on the mattress. The four corners of the bed-tent preferably have pads or triangular fabric pieces  41  stitched or otherwise secured to the lower edges of the sides of the cover  26  and the sheet extensions  33 . The pads  41  may be formed of the same fabric as the cover  26  and sheet extensions  33 . Alternatively, the pads may be non-stretchable flexible strips. The pads rest upon the top surface of the mattress  14  and prevent the sides of the cover and the sheet extensions from being pulled over the peripheral edge of the mattress by the straps  40 . If the bed-tent  10  has an open base  20  smaller than the mattress  14 , the pads  41  may be eliminated and the elastic straps  40  lengthened.  
         [0081]     The frame  28  includes a stanchion  42  disposed externally of the canopy  19  adjacent the end panel  22 , and a stanchion  44  externally of the canopy adjacent the end panel  24 . The stanchion  42  includes a first pair of legs  46  and  48 . The stanchion  44  includes a second pair of legs  50  and  52 . The frame  28  also includes a horizontal frame member  53  that extends between and is secured to the stanchions  42  and  44  and holds the stanchions erect.  
         [0082]     Each of the legs  46 ,  48 ,  50  and  52  has a plurality of elongated, tubular leg segments  56  removably connected together end-to-end in a linear series. The connecting of the leg segments is accomplished by a sleeve  57  on one leg segment slidably receiving an end of an adjacent leg segment. The uppermost leg segment of each of the legs  46  and  48  of the stanchion  42  is removably fitted into a hole in a hollow coupling  60 . The uppermost leg segment of each of the legs  50  and  52  of the stanchion  44  is removably fitted into a hole in a hollow coupling  62 .  
         [0083]     Pockets  64  are secured to the extensions  33  of the sheet  30  of each end panel  22 ,  24  to receive the lower ends of the legs  46 ,  48 ,  50  and  52  as more fully described hereinafter.  
         [0084]     Clips  65  are attached to the outer surface of the sheets  30  of each end panel  22 ,  24  and to the top of the cover  26  for removable connection to the legs  46 ,  48 ,  50  and  52  and to the frame member  53 .  
         [0085]     The frame member  53  comprises a plurality of elongated, tubular frame member segments  68  removably connected together end-to-end in a linear series in the same manner as the leg segments  56 . The segments  68  at the ends of the frame member  53  are removably fitted in holes in the respective couplings  60  and  62 .  
         [0086]     Elastic cording  69  secures the segments of the legs  46 - 52  and of the frame member  53  together under tension. The cording includes an elastic cord  70  which has one end attached to the lowermost tubular leg segment of the leg  46  and extends through all of the leg segments  56  of leg  46 , through the hollow coupling  60 , through the tubular segments  68  of the frame member  53 , through the hollow coupling  62 , and through the tubular leg segments  56  of the leg  50 , being attached at the opposite end to the lowermost leg segment of the leg  50 . The cording  69  also includes an elastic cord  72  which has one end attached to the lowermost tubular leg segment of the leg  48  and extends through all of the leg segments of the leg  48 , through the hollow coupling  60 , through the tubular segments  68  of the frame member  53 , through the hollow coupling  62 , and through the tubular segments of the leg  52 , being attached at the opposite end to the lowermost leg segment of the leg  52 .  
         [0087]     The elastic cords  70  and  72  hold together under tension the segments of all of the legs  46 ,  48 ,  50  and  52 , as well as the segments of the frame member  53 .  
         [0088]     The bed-tent is easily erected over the top surface of the mattress  14 . This is accomplished by stretching and extending the straps  40  over the four corners of the mattress, inserting the lower ends of the legs  46 ,  48  of the stanchion  42  at one end of the canopy into the pockets  64  provided in the extensions  33  of the sheet  30  of the end panel  22 , and inserting the lower ends of the legs  50 ,  52  of the stanchion  44  at the opposite end of the canopy into the pockets  64  provided in the extensions of the sheet  30  of the end panel  24 , with the frame member  53  extending between the upper ends of the stanchions to hold them erect. An important feature of the invention resides in the fact that the entire frame  28 , including the stanchions  40  and  42  and the interconnecting frame members  53  are disposed externally of the canopy. This makes it very easy to assemble the tent as it does not require the assembler to get inside the canopy.  
         [0089]     The clips  65  on sheets  30  of the two end panels and on the cover  26  are snapped on the legs  46 ,  48 ,  50  and  52  and are snapped on the frame member  53  to provide a firm support for the canopy. Other conventional attachment means such as buttons, hooks, Velcro®, snap-fit engagements and ties may also be used.  
         [0090]     The tent is just as easily taken off the mattress and stored. This is done by first unclipping the frame  28  from the canopy  19 . The segments of each leg  46 ,  48 ,  50  and  52  and of the frame member  53  are separated by pulling them apart against the tension of the cords  70  and  72 . The upper segments of the legs and the end segments of the frame member  53  are also separated from the couplings  60  and  62  in the same manner. All of the segments  56  and  68  are then folded together parallel to one another for storage in a package  80 , for example. The package  80  is transparent and has handles  81  to provide a convenient carrying case. See  FIG. 11 . The separated and folded segments, of course, remain held together by the elastic cords  70  and  72 .  
         [0091]     The canopy  19  is collapsed and the hoops  32  of the end panels  22  and  24  are laid over one another and twisted ( FIG. 8 ) or wound into a substantially flat coil of reduced diameter so that the entire canopy will fit nicely into a very small package  82  ( FIG. 10 ) for storage. The package  82  has handles  84  and is transparent and provides a convenient carrying case.  
         [0092]     If the hoops  32  of the end panels are transversely split rather than continuous, they may be removed from the fabric through an opening provided in the stitching around the margin of the sheet material in which the hoops are received. If the hoops are not removed from the fabric stitching, the end panels will fold in a similar manner even with the hoops in place. If the hoop is open-ended to form an open arch shape panel, the ends of the hoop are first placed together before the hoop is twisted in the usual manner.  FIGS. 12 and 13  illustrate how a split hoop may be twisted for storage.  
         [0093]      FIGS. 14-17  show an alternative method of winding a split hoop for storage. Thus, the hoop may be wound into a tight spiral in a common plane to reduce its overall diameter several times for more convenient storage. Reducing a hoop to a flat coil by winding in this manner would be difficult without at least partially removing the hoop from the fabric to which it is normally attached.  
         [0094]      FIGS. 18 and 19  are perspective views of a bed-tent  90  of modified construction. The bed-tent  90  has a base frame  92  and an upwardly arched canopy frame  94 . The base frame  92  is preferably a hoop  96  of oval shape made of the same material as the hoops previously described and adapted to rest flat in a horizontal position on the top surface  99  of a rectangular mattress  98 . The upwardly arched canopy frame  94  is preferably also a hoop  100  of oval shape but bent from a naturally flat condition to the upwardly arched shape shown in  FIGS. 18 and 19 .  
         [0095]     The hoops  96  and  100  may be separately formed or they may, as here shown, be formed from one continuous length of strip material. Thus, referring to  FIGS. 20 and 21 , and starting at the split  102 , the strip material extends up and then down into a rear end portion of the hoop  100  indicated by the arrows a and b, then along the side and front of the hoop  100  as indicated by the arrows c and d, proceeding downward as indicated by the arrows e and f where it extends into the rear portion of the base frame  96  indicated by arrows g and h, then around to the front of the base frame as indicated by the arrow J. The strip material returns to the split  102  at one side of the base frame indicated by the letter k. Thus, one strip of continuous material forms both hoops. Obviously, separate lengths of strip material may be provided if desired to make the separate hoops.  
         [0096]     The split ends of the strip material are secured together by a coupling  110  shown in  FIG. 22  which preferably embraces both hoops at one side of the tent. The coupling  110  may allow the ends of the strip material to rotate with respect to each other. The two hoops at the opposite side of the tent may be secured together by any suitable means such as a similar coupling.  
         [0097]     A sheet  112  of substantially non-stretchable fabric fills the space within the hoop  100  and is secured to hoop  100  as by a folded-over stitched margin  114  of the sheet. The arched frame  94  including the hoop  100  and the fabric sheet  112  forms the top and sides of the tent.  
         [0098]     The front of the tent is completed by a fabric sheet  115  of non-stretchable fabric secured to the stitching along the margin of the fabric sheet  112  forming part of the arched frame  94  and also having a stitched margin to which the front and side portions of the base frame  92  is secured. A similar fabric sheet of non-stretchable fabric  116  is stitched in a similar manner both to the base frame  92  and to the arched frame  94  to complete the canopy enclosure.  
         [0099]      FIG. 19  shows the bed-tent  90  secured to the corners  120  of the rectangular mattress  98  by straps  124  as of elastic or the like secured to the edges of the fabric sheets  115  and  116 . The bed-tent preferably extends over substantially the entire top surface  99  of the mattress. A flap  128  of fabric material secured to the side edges of the sheets  115  and  116  at one side of the bed-tent may be adapted to be tucked between the mattress  98  and box-spring  130  supporting the mattress. A similar flap (not shown) may be provided on the opposite side of the bed-tent. The flaps may be releasably attached to each other under the mattress. The sheet  112  has a cut-away portion providing a panel  132  which may be folded back for access to the interior of the bed-tent.  
         [0100]     As shown in  FIG. 44 , a modified bed-tent  112 ′ which is generally similar to the bed-tent  112  shown in  FIG. 19 , may be provided wherein the resilient strip material of bed-tent  112 ′ may be pre-formed, for example by bending, to correspond more closely to the rectangular shape of the mattress. Base frame  92 ′ may be bent in a generally right-angle configuration at the corners of the mattress, to provide for increased internal living space. Base frame  92 ′ can be additionally bent at one or more midpoints  129  along the length of the mattress to provide a force tending to reduce or eliminate the tendency for the tent to expand outwardly and shift or move off the mattress. These bends may make it possible to eliminate the fabric flap  128 , which functions to keep the base member from expanding over the sides of the mattress. Upwardly arched frame  94 ′ may be bent in a similar manner to provide for an approximately flat roof; this provides additional “headroom” and assists in keeping the base member from expanding as mentioned. During folding of the bed-tent, the upwardly arched frame  94 ′ and base frame  92 ′ are placed upon each other before collapsing as usual.  
         [0101]      FIG. 23  is a perspective view of a bed-tent  140  of a further modification. The bed-tent  140  has a canopy frame  142  in the form of an endless hoop  144  of the same material as previously described. The hoop  144  is twisted into the shape of the numeral  8  ( FIG. 24 ) and is bent from a naturally flat condition to an upwardly arched shape as shown. Sheets  146  and  147  of substantially non-stretchable fabric fill the space within the twisted loops of the hoop  144  and are secured to the hoop  144  as by folded-over stitched margins  148  of the sheets. The arched frame  142  including the hoop  144  and fabric sheets  146  and  147  form the front, top and rear of the tent.  
         [0102]     Sheets  150  of substantially non-stretchable fabric at the front, sides and rear of the tent extend downwardly from the arched frame to the bottom of the tent, being secured as by stitching to the marginal edge portions of the sheets  146  and  147  of the arched frame. The lower edges of the canopy sheets  150  are adapted to extend down to the upper surface of a rectangular mattress  156  and may be held in place along the sides by flaps  154  secured to the side portions of the sheet and adapted to be tucked under the mattress  156  between the mattress and a supporting box spring (not shown).  
         [0103]     The bed-tent  140  is secured to the corners  158  of the rectangular mattress  156  by straps  160  secured to the corner portions of the fabric sheets. The bed-tent preferably extends over substantially the entire top surface of the mattress. The four corners of the bed-tent preferably have pads  161  secured to the lower edges of the sheets  150 . These pads  161  are like the pads  41  previously described and serve the same purpose. If the bed-tent  140  is smaller than substantially the entire top surface of the mattress, straps  160  are lengthened and pads  161  can be eliminated. The sheet on one side of the bed-tent has a cutaway portion providing a panel  162  which may be folded back for access to the interior of the bed-tent.  
         [0104]      FIG. 25  shows the hoop  144  untwisted, with the fabric excluded.  FIGS. 26-27  show a sequence of positions as the bed-tent  140  is folded to a more or less flat condition enabling it to be placed within a package  170  for storage as shown in  FIG. 28 .  
         [0105]     Referring in more detail to the drawings,  FIGS. 29 and 30  illustrate another bed-tent  200  that may be secured to a mattress  202  and used as a sleeping shelter or play house. The bed-tent  200  is adapted for use with a mattress  202  that is preferably of the usual rectangular shape having opposed upper and lower surfaces  204 ,  206 , peripheral sidewalls  208  and endwalls  210  extending between the upper and lower surfaces, and four corners  212 .  
         [0106]     The bed-tent  200  includes a cover  214  and an open base that preferably is generally coextensive with the periphery of the mattress  202 . The cover  214  has end panels  216  that may be positioned adjacent to the head and foot of the bed and a flexible fabric canopy portion  218  spanning the end panels  216 . The supporting frame  220  holds the end panels  216  in laterally spaced and generally upright position. The frame  220  includes a pole  222  positioned about the exterior of the fabric canopy  218  and extending between at least one pair of pockets  224  each attached to the cover or to the hoop generally adjacent to a separate one of the end panels  216 , and through one or more sleeves  226  or loops along the canopy  218  to facilitate maintaining the canopy  218  erect above the mattress  202 . Alternately, the pole  222  may be positioned about the interior of the fabric canopy  218 . Preferably, each end of the pole  222  is disposed within a separate one of the pockets  224  to maintain the spacing of the end panels  216  from each other. The pockets  224  preferably are disposed in flaps  225  attached to the cover and extending laterally beyond the end panels  216 . The pockets may also be attached to fabric canopy  218  so that the pole  222  does not extend laterally beyond the end panels  216 . Further, the pole(s) may be releasably attached to the collapsible frame members  230  (not shown). This facilitates holding the canopy  218  in tension so that it is fully expanded for maximum interior tent space. The pole  222  preferably comprises a plurality of elongated, tubular frame segments removeably connected together end-to-end in a linear series providing a generally continuous pole. Each segment of the pole  222  is preferably interconnected by an elastic cord (not shown) under tension. The cord holds together the segments of the pole  222  to facilitate their alignment, and interconnection. The cord also prevents individual segments of the pole  222  from becoming misplaced or lost when not in use.  
         [0107]     The frame  220  preferably further includes at least a pair of collapsible frame members  230 , one in each end panel  216 , such as resilient strips of a flexible material such as spring steel, composite rod or plastic, for example. The hoops  230  may be generally circular, oval, may incorporate one generally square corner, two square corners, may be triangular, approximately square or rectangular; the corners of the various versions may be curved, truncated or generally form right angles. Each hoop frame member  230  may be a continuous annulus or it may be transversely split annulus with abutting ends at the split or open ended. The hoop frame members  230  are preferably disposed in the plane of the end panels  216  and are secured to the outer edge of the panels  216  such as by folding the outer edge of each panel over the hoop  230  and stitching the folded edge to the panel  216 . For additional strength, a second hoop of resilient strip material can be secured to the outer edge of the panel. This second hoop can also be formed, with the first hoop, of a single unitary piece. Finally, this second hoop can be adapted to be secured to the first hoop along a limited portion or periphery thereof. The portion of the end panels bounded by each hoop or frame member is held taut by the frame member and resists distortion or collapse of the end panel.  
         [0108]     A screened window opening  240  may be provided in the end panels  216 , or canopy  218 , as desired. The canopy  218  preferably is made of substantially nonstretchable, flexible fabric and extends between the end panels  216 . The canopy  218  is held fairly taut by having its ends stitched or otherwise secured to the margins of the end panels  216 . So arranged, the canopy  218  defines opposed sides and a top or roof of the tent  200 . One side of the canopy  218  preferably has a cutaway portion providing a flap  242  that may be folded back to form an opening  244  for access to the interior of the bed-tent  200 . The flap  242  serves as a closure for the opening  244  when extended across the opening and may be releasably held shut by a zipper, Velcro® straps, or other fastening device.  
         [0109]     Retainers  246  are preferably disposed at each corner of the bed-tent  200  and are adapted to be secured to or about each corner  212  of the mattress  202 . These retainers preferably are flexible straps formed of a relatively elastic and resilient material. The ends of the straps  246  are attached to the fabric of the end panels  216  and/or canopy  218 . The strap  246  preferably are U-shaped with 2 legs  248  disposed on and attached to adjacent sides of a corner of the bed-tent  200  with a central bight (not shown) adapted to be disposed around the corner  212  of the mattress  202 , preferably with a portion underneath the lower surface  206  of the mattress  202 . The straps  246  may be disposed in or covered by a flap of fabric, or they may simply be exposed elastic straps, as shown in  FIG. 29   
         [0110]     As best shown in  FIG. 29 , in the interior of the bed-tent  200 , optional pads  252  or fabric pieces are preferably stitched or otherwise attached or connected to the end panels and/or cover. These pads  252  overly a portion of the upper surface  204  of the mattress  202 , in the area of each of the corners  212  of the mattress  202 . When the bed-tent  200  is placed on the mattress  202 , the pads  252  rest upon the top surface  204  of the mattress  202  and prevent the bed-tent  200  from being pulled over or down beneath the upper surface  204  of the mattress  202  when the retainers  246  are secured to the mattress  202 . The pads  252  may be formed of the same fabric as the canopy  218  and end panels  216 , or any other suitable material, as desired. Pads  252  are not necessary if the bed-tent is smaller than the mattress.  
         [0111]     The bed-tent  200  is easily erected over the top surface  204  of the mattress  202 . This is accomplished by stretching and extending the retainers  246  over the four corners  212  of the mattress  202 , and inserting the ridge pole  222  through the sleeve  226  and into the pockets  224 . The ridge pole  222  is preferably disposed externally of the canopy  218  which facilitates assembly of the ridge pole  222  to the bed-tent  200 .  
         [0112]     The tent  200  is just as easily taken off of the mattress  202  and stored. This may be done by removing the ridge pole  222  from the tent, and then removing the retainers  246  from the mattress  202 . The segments of the pole  222  may then be disconnected and folded together for convenient storage. The tent  200  may be collapsed and the resilient strip frame members  230  of the end panels  216  are laid over one another and twisted around into a substantially flat coil of reduced diameter so that the entire tent  200  will fit nicely into a very small package for storage. Alternatively, one or more retainers  246  can be wound or wrapped about the flat coil and material of the tent to prevent it from unwinding and expanding, without the need to place the tent within a separate bag or package.  
         [0113]     If the resilient strip frame members  230  of the end panels  216  are split rather than continuous, they may be removed from the fabric through an opening provided in the stitching around the panel in which the frame members are received. If the hoop frame member  230  is open ended to form an open arch shaped panel, the ends of the hoop are preferably first placed together before the hoop is twisted in the usual manner.  
         [0114]     A modified bed-tent  300  is shown in  FIG. 31 . In this embodiment, the end panels  316 , preferably including resilient, collapsible frame members  330 , extend beneath the top surface  204  of the mattress  202 , and may extend along the endwalls  210  of the mattress  202  to the bottom surface  206  of the mattress. They may even extend all the way to the floor. When disposed between the mattress  202  and a headboard and/or footboard of a bed, this may provide additional stability of the tent  300  and prevent lateral movement of the tent  300  off the mattress  22 . Otherwise, the bed-tent  300  may be substantially as shown and described with reference to the bed-tent  200  in  FIGS. 29 and 30 , so similar reference numbers have been applied to at least some of the similar portions of the tent  300  in  FIG. 31  and its construction and use will not be further described.  
         [0115]     Another implementation of a bed-tent  400  is shown in  FIG. 32 . In this embodiment, both the canopy  418  and the end panels  416  are extended beneath or below the upper surface  204  of the mattress  202  and may surround the sidewalls  208  and endwalls  210  of the mattress  202 . End panel frame members  430  may also extend below the upper surface  204  of the mattress  202 . The retainers  246  may be fitted underneath the mattress  202 , such as between a box spring  402  and the mattress  202 , or the flexible retainers  246  may be replaced with stretchable or substantially nonstretchable flaps or strips of material which are disposed beneath the bottom surface  206  of the mattress  202  to retain the bed-tent  400  in position on the mattress  202 . Or, for example, the retainers  246  could be disposed around corners  404  of the box spring  402  with the bight of the retainers underneath the box spring (not shown). Pads  252  may rest on the mattress  202  to help maintain the position of the bed-tent relative to the mattress. If the bed-tent extends to the floor, the retainers  246  can be eliminated and pads  252  may rest on the mattress  252  or between the mattress and box spring  402  or in both locations. Otherwise, the bed-tent  400  may be substantially as shown and described with reference to  FIG. 29  so its construction and use will not be further described.  
         [0116]     Another implementation of a bed-tent  500  is shown in  FIG. 33 . This bed-tent  500  includes a roof panel  502  circumscribed by a resilient strip frame member  504  that may be constructed substantially in the same manner as the frame members  430  of the respective end panels  416  of the tent  400 . The fabric covering the roof panel frame member  504  may be integral with the remaining fabric of the cover that defines the sides of the bed-tent  500 , or the material may be separately formed from the sides of the tent. The ridge pole may not be necessary in this embodiment as the roof panel  502  provides sufficient support to maintain the bed-tent  500  upright and to prevent collapse of the cover toward the mattress  202 . The roof panel  502  may be releasably connected immediately adjacent to or in the area of the end panels  416  at each end of the roof panel  502 , to provide increased stability of the bed-tent  500 . The roof panel  502  preferably is foldable into a coil of reduced diameter or size in the same manner as generally set forth with respect to the end panel frame members  230 . Accordingly, the entire bed-tent  500  is provided in a single unit, without additional or loose parts and may be readily collapsed and stored, and expanded and positioned on a mattress  202  as desired. The remainder of the bed-tent  500  may be substantially as described with reference to the bed-tent  200  shown in  FIGS. 29, 31  and  32 , so its construction and use will not be further described. The roof panel  502  may also be substituted for panels with two frame members as described, for example without limitation, with reference to side panel  606 ′ of  FIG. 36  or side panels  902 ,  904  of  FIG. 40 , described hereinafter.  
         [0117]     Another modified bed-tent  600  or structure is shown in  FIG. 34 . In this implementation, the bed-tent  600  includes a plurality of interconnected panels  602 ,  604 ,  606  defining a partial enclosure and including one or more retainers  246  adapted to releasably retain the bed-tent  600  on to a mattress  200 , bed frame or other structure. In the embodiment shown, the end panels  602 ,  604  are generally square with rounded corners, and a side panel  606  interconnecting the end panels  602 ,  604  is generally rectangular with rounded corners. A fabric sheet  608  may be disposed between the end panels  602 ,  604  providing a roof for the bed-tent and a separate front fabric panel, which includes a door for entry. Each panel  602 ,  604 ,  606  preferably includes a flexible resilient strip frame member  610  generally about its periphery and preferably enclosed in material stitched onto itself to retain the resilient strip member  610 . The frame members  610  may be folded, collapsed or coiled into generally flat configuration of reduced size or diameter to facilitate storage of the bed-tent. Retainers  246  and/or fabric pieces  612  (which may be the same as or similar to the pads  252  in a prior embodiment) hold the structure to the mattress (not shown) as in  FIGS. 30, 31  and  32 . If structure  600  is smaller than mattress  202 , material  612  can be eliminated.  
         [0118]     Another implementation of a bed-tent  600 ′ is shown in  FIG. 35 . This bed-tent  600 ′ is construction substantially identical to the bed-tent  600  shown in  FIG. 34 , and includes a pole  650  or connector extending between the end panels  602 ,  604 , generally at an opposite edge  652  of the end panels from the side panel  606 . Preferably, the pole  650  extends along an upper corner opposite the side panel  606  and is adapted to receive thereon a sheet or other piece of fabric or cover to facilitate attaching or providing a roof and a front fabric panel for the bed-tent  600 ′. The pole is attached as described with reference to  FIG. 29 . The pole may optionally or also be used to hang or attach other accessories for the bed-tent  600 ′, as desired. At least one additional releasable pole may attach to the side and or end panels to provide additional functions, for example, a peaked roof, eaves, vestibules, etc. The remainder of the bed-tent  600 ′ may be constructed substantially as shown and described with reference to the bed-tent  600  in  FIG. 34 , and hence its construction and use will not be further described.  
         [0119]     The bed-tent  600 ″ shown in  FIG. 36  is similar to the bed-tent  600  of  FIG. 34 . However, the side panel  606 ′ of the bed-tent  600 ″ includes a pair of resilient strip frame members  610  that are at least partially overlapped in a generally common plane and are interconnected to form the side panel  606 ′. Each of the pair of frame members  610  may be generally square with rounded corners, as the frame members  610  used in the end panels  602 ,  604 . These panels of the sidewall  606  may be connected edge to edge or may be overlapped in the same plane, as shown in  FIG. 36 . Accordingly, four generally identical panels can be used to form the two end panels  602 ,  604  and the elongated side panel  606 ′. Otherwise, the bed-tent  600 ″ may be constructed and used in substantially the same manner as set forth with regard to the bed-tent  600  of  FIG. 34  and/or  600 ′ of  FIG. 35 , so it will not be further described.  
         [0120]     The bed-tent  700  of  FIG. 37  is similar to the bed-tent  600  shown in  FIG. 34  and includes a second elongated side panel  706  opposed to the first side panel  606  and spanning the distance between the end panels  602 ,  604 . The side panel  706  may include a single resilient frame member  610  or may include overlapped frame members  610 , as the sidewall  606 ′ in the bed-tent  600 ″ of  FIG. 36 . A roof, cover or other canopy type arrangement may be provided on the bed-tent  700  as set forth with regard to the previous bed-tents. Otherwise, the bed-tent  700  may be constructed and used substantially as described with reference to the tent  600  shown in  FIGS. 34 and 600 ′ as shown in  FIG. 35 , with at least one optional pole releasably attached to provide eaves, vestibules, etc. and hence, will not be described further.  
         [0121]     The bed-tent  700 ′ shown in  FIG. 38  is similar to the bed-tent  700  shown in  FIG. 37  and includes a top or roof panel  750  releasably connected to one or more of the side and/or end panels  602 ,  604 ,  606 ,  706  of the bed-tent  700 . As shown, the roof panel  750  may be constructed substantially identical to the side panels  606 ,  706  of the bed-tent  700 ′. The roof panel  750  is shown as been releasably connected along its longer side to the length of the upper edge  752  of a side panel  706  so that the roof panel  752  may be pivoted or folded along its connected edge. The roof panel  752  may be formed with one continuous frame member  610 , or may include more than one overlapped or interconnected frame members  610 , as desired. Otherwise the bed-tent  700 ′ may be constructed and used substantially as described with reference to the tent shown in  FIG. 34 .  
         [0122]     The bed-tent  800  shown in  FIG. 39  is similar to the bed-tent  600 ″ shown in  FIG. 37  and has opposed side panels  606 ′,  706 ′ each formed from a pair of interconnected and overlapped panels to define the generally rectangular sides of the bed-tent  800 . Each of the overlapped panels forming a sidewall may be substantially identical in size and shape to the panels of the endwalls  602 ,  604  so that the bed-tent  800  is formed from six equally sized and shaped panels to facilitate its folding and packing. The panels of the sidewalls  606 ′,  706 ′ may be connected edge to edge, or may be overlapped in the same plane, as shown in  FIG. 39 . A roof panel  752  may be added as in  FIG. 38 . Alternately, at least one releasably connected pole may be added as described in  FIG. 35 . Otherwise, the bed-tent  800  may be constructed and used in substantially the same manner as the bed-tent  600 ″ of  FIG. 37  and so it will not be described further.  
         [0123]     The bed-tent  900  of  FIG. 40  is similar to the bed-tent  800  of  FIG. 39  except that its side panels  902 ,  904  and end panels  906 ,  908  are overlapped and provide outwardly extending corner portions  910  extending at right angles to each other. In other words, an end portion  912  at each end of each side panel  902 ,  904  intersects and extends beyond the plane of each of the end panels  906 ,  908 , and an end portion  914  at each end of each side panel intersects and extends beyond the plane of each of the side panels. The interior of the bed-tent  900  remains a generally rectangular cube, while the exterior includes the outwardly extending corner portions  910 . Otherwise, the construction and use of the bed-tent  900  may be substantially as described with reference to the bed-tent  800  of  FIG. 39  so it will not be described further. The panels  902  and  904  could be connected together edge-to-edge as described, for example, with reference to  FIG. 36 .  
         [0124]     An alternate embodiment of a panel  950  for a bed-tent is shown in  FIG. 41 . The panel  950  includes a “figure 8” shaped frame member  952  which preferably is formed of a resilient strip material as set forth with regard to the prior embodiment bed-tents. The resilient strip frame member  952  is preferably disposed within the boundary or margin of a sheet  954  of flexible material to which the frame member  952  is connected. The “figure 8” shaped frame member  952  may be continuous or split in one or more pieces, and it is preferably disposed within channels, passages, loops or sleeves attached as by stitching to the sheet  954  of the panel. Such a panel  950  may be used as any of the side, end or roof panels, for example, of any of the bed-tents described herein. It may also bend in an approximately right angle to form at least part of one side panel and of one end panel.  
         [0125]     An alternate embodiment panel  960  is shown in  FIGS. 42 and 43 . This panel  960  includes a peripheral frame member  962  which may be continuous or split, and an inner frame member  964  having at least some portion disposed inwardly of the outer frame member  962 . The frame members  962 ,  964  may be disposed within channels, passages, loops or sleeves  966  formed in or attached to the sheet fabric of the panel, such as by sewing. The inner frame member  962  may be disposed within separate sleeves  966  bridging corners of the panel  960  and, as best shown in  FIG. 43 , the inner frame member  964  may be disposed in the same sleeve  966  as the outer frame member  962  along a portion of the run of the inner frame member  964 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 42 , the inner frame member  964  forms a rotated square, or diamond pattern disposed in and joined with or intersecting a generally square outer frame member  962 . Of course, substantially any other shape and arrangement can be utilized, as desired for a particular application.  
         [0126]     Two similar bed-tent frame members  1000  and  1000 ′ are shown in  FIGS. 45 and 46 . The frame members  1000  and  1000 ′ preferably are formed from a single strip of resilient material that is bent, or urged by its connection to the fabric of the tent, into the configuration shown. In  FIG. 45 , the frame member  1000  includes a saddle shaped portion  1002  and an oval portion  1004  that overlies a mattress (not shown). The saddle shaped portion  1002  includes an upwardly curved section ‘a’ which contains one end  1006  of the strip material of the frame structure  1000 . Section ‘a’ leads to downwardly curved section ‘b’, which leads to laterally extending section ‘c’, which leads to upwardly curved section ‘d’, which leads to downwardly curved section ‘e’ which leads to laterally extending section ‘f’. Section ‘f’ passes by the end of the strip material and extends laterally along the mattress to section ‘g’ forms part of the oval section along with sections ‘h’, ‘i’, ‘j’, and ‘k’.  
         [0127]     The frame member  1000 ′ shown in  FIG. 46  is similar to that shown in  FIG. 45  in that it also may be formed from a single strip of resilient material having a saddle portion  1002 ′ and an oval portion  1004 ′. In this embodiment, however, the strip material is routed differently. The saddle sections ‘a’, ‘b’, and ‘c’ lead to oval sections ‘d’, ‘e’, ‘f’, ‘g’, and ‘h’. Oval section ‘h’ in turn leads to another portion of the saddle section defined by sections ‘i’, ‘j’ and ‘k’, as shown.  
         [0128]      FIG. 47  illustrates yet another frame member  1010  suitable for use with a bed-tent. The frame member  1010  preferably is formed from one or more strips of resilient material that is bent, or urged by its connection to the fabric of the tent, into the configuration shown. The frame member  1010  includes a central saddle section  1012 , a slightly concave middle oval section  1014 , and a lower oval section  1016  adapted to overlie a mattress. Connectors  1018  preferably interconnect the adjacent runs of the sections  1012 ,  1014 ,  1016  and permit rotation or pivoting the sections relative to one another to facilitate folding flat and collapsing a bed-tent with which the frame structure  1010  is used. The connectors  1018  prevent outward bowing or movement of the various sections to facilitate maintaining a bed-tent on a mattress. The frame member  1010  may be formed in substantially the same manner as, for example, the frame member  1000  of  FIG. 45  except that the frame member  1010  includes two oval sections as shown.  
         [0129]      FIG. 48  illustrates a bed-tent  1050  formed from an upwardly bowed frame member  1052  disposed in the shape of an inverted saddle. The frame member  1052  preferably is formed from a single strip of resilient material that is bent, or urged by its connection to the fabric of the tent, into the configuration shown. The frame member  1052  may be circumferentially continuous, or it may be split. The bowed frame member  1052  keeps the fabric of the bend tent  1050  in tension when erected. Retainers  246  may also help keep the bed-tent stretched out over the mattress in a manner already described, such as by engaging one or more of the four corners of the mattress.  
         [0130]      FIG. 49  illustrates a bed-tent  1060  that utilizes a single continuous resilient strip frame member  1062  that forms the base of the structure. The base may be formed in any desired shape such as oval (as shown), rectangular, square, etc. A fabric canopy  1064  is supported by one or more open-ended resilient strips  1066  formed into an arch shape by a fabric channel  1068  affixed to the base by stitching or the like. A pivoting junction, affixed to the base loop is a further attachment, by way of example without limitation. To collapse the structure, at least one open-ended resilient strip is detached from the canopy, allowing both open-ended strips to lie atop the base  1062 . The structure is collapsed by folding as usual. Both the base  1062  and the open-ended strip(s)  1066  can be bent, as previously described, to better conform to the rectangular shape of the mattress. Retainers  246  may also help keep the bed-tent  1060  stretched out over the mattress in a manner already described, such as by engaging one or more of the four corners of the mattress.  
         [0131]     One of ordinary skill in this art will readily recognize that the preceding description has been set forth in terms of description rather than limitation. While many of the panels of the bed-tents disclosed herein have been shown as being circular, oval, square or rectangular, the panels and any desired portion of the bed-tents may be formed in any desired shape. The panels of the various embodiments may be releasably attached to allow the separate panels to be easily folded for storage. The pads, which maintain the bed-tent on top of the mattress, may be eliminated if the structure is 2-4 inches smaller than the mattress. Further, while the bed-tents disclosed herein have been shown with an open base so that immediate access can be provided to the sheets, blankets or other linens on the bed with which the tent is used, a base panel may be provided if desired. Still further, while the frame members have been described as being retained in or on the panels of the bed-tent by stitching or the fabric around the frame members, they may be otherwise connected. For example, adhesive, or hook and loop type fasteners, may be employed to name a couple of many possibilities. Still other modifications and substitutions can be made without departing from the spirit and broad scope of this invention. The invention is to be defined by the following claims.