Abstract:
A retractable bunk or bed is disclosed. The retractable bunk can be used in a sleeper compartment so as to optimize space within the cab. The innovation can include a shaft around which a suitably strong, yet flexible, material bunk can be wound. Thus, in a closed or “hidden” state, the material can be rolled up around the shaft and stowed, for example behind a door or within a compartment as desired. In an open position, the material is extended in a horizontal manner and affixed to retain the “bunk” position.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 61/379,947 entitled “RETRACTABLE BUNK” and filed Sep. 3, 2010. The entirety of the above-noted application is incorporated by reference herein. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    The cabin or “cab” of a truck is an enclosed space where the operator (or driver) is seated when operating a vehicle. Today, long-haul truck cabs often include many amenities that enhance comfort of a driver. These amenities include air conditioning, ergonomic seats and controls, hi-fi sound and entertainment packages, etc. 
         [0003]    The rearward portion of some cabs often includes a sleeper compartment equipped with amenities and services which include televisions, Wi-Fi Internet access, beds and the like. A sleeper is often a separate compartment attached to the cab where the driver can rest while not driving. Sleeper units can range from a simple bunk compartment to a spacious “apartment-on-wheels.” 
         [0004]    Because space is limited within the sleeper portion of a cab, many appliances and the like have been reduced in size to accommodate and maximize space. Similarly, furnishings are strategically designed to optimize the limited space available in a cab. There exists a need to continue to develop space-saving furnishings for inside a sleeper compartment of a cab. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0005]    The following presents a simplified summary of the innovation in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview of the innovation. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements of the innovation or to delineate the scope of the innovation. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the innovation in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later. 
         [0006]    The innovation disclosed and claimed herein, in one aspect thereof, comprises a retractable bunk or bed. In aspects, this retractable bunk can be used in a truck&#39;s “sleeper” compartment so as to optimize space within the cab. The retractable bunk can include a shaft around which a material bunk can be wound. The bunk can be made of most any suitably strong yet flexible material that enables winding and can sustain the weight of an individual when unwound (and locked) in a horizontal fashion. Thus, in a closed, wound or “hidden” position, the material is rolled up around the shaft and stowed, for example behind a door or within a compartment as desired. In an open position, the material is extended in a horizontal manner and affixed to retain the “bunk” position. 
         [0007]    In another aspect of the subject innovation, the bunk can be equipped with a spring-loaded or other auto-retractable mechanism such that, when unlatched, the retractable bunk can be rewound and stowed with ease. When in a wound state, the bunk can be hidden, e.g., behind a panel, if desired. This windup bunk can assist in maximization of space within a truck&#39;s sleeper compartment. 
         [0008]    In yet other aspects, the retractable bunk can be equipped with motorized units and controls so as to effect automatic deployment. Some aspects can be deployed manually as well as motorized as desired. 
         [0009]    To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles of the innovation can be employed and the subject innovation is intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features of the innovation will become apparent from the following detailed description of the innovation when considered in conjunction with the drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0010]      FIG. 1  illustrates an example retractable bunk assembly in a retracted state in accordance with aspects of the innovation. 
           [0011]      FIG. 2  illustrates an example retractable bunk assembly in an extended state in accordance with aspects of the innovation. 
           [0012]      FIG. 3  illustrates example hardware and catch assemblies in accordance with aspects of the innovation. 
           [0013]      FIG. 4  illustrates example bunk assemblies in retracted states in accordance with aspects of the innovation. 
           [0014]      FIG. 5  illustrates example bunk assemblies in an open or extended and locked state in accordance with aspects of the innovation. 
           [0015]      FIG. 6  illustrates example conveniences in a bunk area in accordance with aspects of the innovation. 
           [0016]      FIG. 7  illustrates example conveniences in a bunk area in accordance with aspects of the innovation. 
           [0017]      FIG. 8  illustrates example conveniences in a bunk area in accordance with aspects of the innovation. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0018]    The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the subject innovation. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. 
         [0019]    Referring initially to the drawings,  FIG. 1  illustrates an example retractable bunk system  100  in accordance with aspects of the innovation. Generally, in one aspect, the retractable bunk system  100  can include a roller assembly  102  (not shown) capable of rolling (or wrapping) material  104  thereon. In aspects, the roller mechanism  102  can include a spring mechanism (not shown) that effects auto-winding and provides resistance when unwinding (and assistance when winding) the material  104  upon mechanism  102 . In these aspects, it will be appreciated that the mechanism&#39;s rod or roller  102  can include at least one end that rotates independent of the pin. As will be understood, each end of the roller mechanism  102  can be removeably positioned within a notch or holder so as to retain the roller when unwound while at the same time enabling the roller to spin or rotate thereby enabling unwinding of the bunk material. In other aspects, the mechanism can be fixedly attached, e.g., within a compartment, wall, etc. 
         [0020]    As shown in  FIG. 1 , a material  104 , e.g., trampoline-like material, can be wrapped upon roller mechanism  102  (not shown). In the aspect, in its wrapped (or wound) state, as shown, the retractable bunk assembly  100  is compact thereby not occupying much space within the cab. It will be understood that each end of the roller assembly  102  can be attached into a bracket or catcher such that it is able to freely (or substantially freely) rotate. 
         [0021]    In operation, once extended (or unrolled), the material  104  creates a bunk-like surface upon which an individual can sit or lay. Similarly, the in its unrolled state, the extended material can be used as a shelf or other storage location. Once extended, as shown, a locking rod  106  can be attached to the material so as to be latched (or otherwise positioned) into roller catches  108 . These catches  108  will be better described upon a review of the figures that follow. Here, in operation, the roller mechanism  102  can be rotated while the material is unwound. As shown, the material can be equipped with a support rod (or a plurality of pins)  106  which can be inserted within the catches  108  thereby holding the material in an taut or extended state. 
         [0022]    While one set of catches  108  is shown, it is to be understood that additional (or adjustable) catches can be employed so as to enable adjustment of the tension applied to the unwound material. In aspects, an additional set of catches  108  can positioned closer to the winding mechanism  102  such that the material will be less-taut upon securing. Still further, catches  108  can be equipped upon tracks or slides so as to enable adjustment of the distance from the roller mechanism  102 . As will be understood, the closer the catches  108  are to the roller mechanism  102 , more slack can be provided in the material. 
         [0023]    In alternative aspects, an optional cushion  110  can be employed to rest upon the extended fabric or material  104 . As described above, the fabric or material  104  can be most any material capable of supporting the weight of a human body. In some aspects, the material is rubber-based such as that used in a trampoline. In others, suitably strong netting (e.g., nylon) can be employed. It is to be understood that most any material known in the art can be employed without departing from the spirit and/or scope of the innovation and claims appended hereto. 
         [0024]    While the aspect illustrated in  FIG. 1  illustrates that the bunk can be retracted or extended from a wound coil of material mounted or otherwise hidden within a wall unit, other aspects contemplate the material being coiled or wound around the rod  104 . These alternative aspects are to be included within the scope of this innovation and claims appended hereto. 
         [0025]    Turning now to  FIG. 2 , an example view of a retractable bunk assembly  200  is shown in accordance with an aspect of the innovation. As illustrated, the retractable bed assembly  200  is shown in an extended or opened position. In other words, as depicted, the material  104  is extended and the roller  106  is positioned within catches (or holders)  108 . In this orientation, an individual can sit or lay directly upon the material  104 , whereas the bunk can support the weight of the person. 
         [0026]    Alternatively, and optionally, a cushion  110  can be positioned atop the material in a horizontal manner thereby providing additional cushion (and support) for comfort. In aspects, it will be understood that the cushion  110  can be manufactured from most any suitable materials (e.g., foam) and covered with cloth, leather, vinyl or the like thereby enhancing comfort and support. Further, as shown the material  104  can be fixedly attached to a backwall by way of a support rod  202  as shown. Other aspects can employ most any attachment means know so as to attach the material to the back wall. As described supra, the coiling (or winding) mechanism can be positioned at the innermost (near the wall as shown) or outermost location (e.g., about rod  106 ). These alternative aspects are to be included within the scope of the innovation without departing from the features, functions and benefits described herein. 
         [0027]    As stated supra, the material  104  can be most any suitably rollable material having strength to withstand weight of a human body. For example, the material  104  can be a rubber-based trampoline-like material, a reinforced nylon netting, or other material. The shaft of the roller  106  can be manufactured of most any material including, but not limited to, wood, steel, aluminum, alloy, composites or the like. In one example, the roller bar  106  has a round cross-section that facilitates ease of rolling. However, it is to be understood and appreciated that other shapes including hexagons, pentagons, ovals, squares or the like can be employed as appropriate. 
         [0028]    Additionally, in yet other aspects, the bunk can be segmented and folded (or bent) in an accordion-like manner for storage. Still further, the segmented (and semi-rigid) bunk (not shown) can be guided (e.g., slidably traversed) into the back wall and stowed in that manner. These semi-rigid aspects are to be included within the spirit and scope of this specification. 
         [0029]      FIG. 3  illustrates an alternate view  300  of a roller mechanism  102  in accordance with aspects of the innovation. As shown in the alternate view, roller  102  can be equipped with a spring-loaded rod  302  positioned with the interior length of the roller  102 . The rod  302  is configured to rotate in at least one direction. For example, the rod  302  is spring-loaded such that resistance is provided to retain the material  104  in a taut state upon rolling out. Once rolled to a desired length, the rod  302  engages thereby not enabling additional roll-out of material  104 . 
         [0030]    Hardware, including bushings (e.g., metal or plastic bushings)  304  can be applied to each end of the rod  302 . The bushings  304  can be press fit onto each end of rod  302 . When extended, the bushings  304  along with a portion of the roller  102  can be fit into catches  306  thereby retaining the material  104  in a taut state. In operation, the bushings  304  (and roller  102 ) can “snap” or otherwise be frictionally attached into the catches  306 . 
         [0031]    It will be appreciated that catches  306  can be configured in a vertical slot-like manner as shown with regard to catches  306 . In an alternative design, an angled slot-like manner can be employed as illustrated with regard to catch  308 . In this manner, the catch  308  can naturally retain the rod  102  in relation to the spring-back tension or friction. In other words, the locking feature can be inherently included within the angled shape of the catch  308 . 
         [0032]    With continued reference to  FIG. 3 , the retractable bunk assembly  300  can be equipped with a lockable handle  310 . The lockable handle  310  can be manufactured so as to permit unwinding when in an “open” or “unlocked” (up) position (as shown). When “locked,” the handle can be pivoted downward. It will be appreciated that most any handle/lock assembly can be employed without departing from the spirit and/or scope of the innovation. 
         [0033]    Turning now to  FIG. 4 , a front view of an alternative bunk assembly  402  in a retracted position is shown. As illustrated, the bunk assembly is retracted thereby increasing cab space. Additionally, it is to be appreciated that the retracted bunk assembly  402  can be equipped with or without an optional cushion as described supra. 
         [0034]    Alternative perspective view  404  of a bunk in a retracted position is shown in  FIG. 4 . It is to be understood that, while a specific configuration is shown and described herein, alternative aspects can be employed without departing from the spirit and/or scope of the features, functions and benefits described herein. As described above, the retractable material can be employed as a bunk or other shelf or storage area. Further, while a bunk-sized example is shown and described, it is to be understood that the innovation can be employed in larger or smaller sizes, for example, to provide a small storage shelf or table area as desired. These alternative aspects are to be included within the scope of the innovation described herein. 
         [0035]      FIG. 5  illustrates an alternative aspect of a retractable bunk assembly  500  in an extended, and locked, state. As shown in  FIG. 5 , the bunk cabin can be equipped with a full length (or partial length) sun/moon roof  502  or window as desired. In aspects, the roof portion  502  can be retractable, removable or pop-up (or combinations thereof). Additionally, a blind or cover can be provided so as to cover or shade the bunk portion. It is to be appreciated that either or both the roof and/or the shade can be motorized as desired. 
         [0036]    Referring now to  FIGS. 6 ,  7  and  8 , additional conveniences to the retractable bunk assembly are shown. More particularly, the bunk area can be equipped with an over moulded soft (e.g., rubber) edge. Net storage bins can also be provided to enhance storage and convenience. While specific bins are shown, it is to be understood that most any storage compartments can be employed without departing from the spirit and/or scope of the innovation. Further, the retractable bunk environment can include a flexi-lamp as shown in  FIG. 6 . 
         [0037]      FIG. 7  illustrates optional storage area lights as well as speaker modules. Other aspects can include air conditioning and heater ducts, etc. Overhead bins can be provided in order to assist with space maximization. Accordingly,  FIG. 8  illustrates optional air-conditioning/heating and entertainment (e.g., radio, television) controls. 
         [0038]    What has been described above includes examples of the innovation. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the subject innovation, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the innovation are possible. Accordingly, the innovation is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.