Patent Description:
The disclosure, in various embodiments, relates generally to hammock tents, and related camping systems. More particularly, embodiments of the disclosure relate to hammock tents including ridgelines, and to related camping systems.

Conventional sleeping hammocks (e.g., hammock tents, camping hammocks, etc.) suffer from a number of design deficiencies. For example, many conventional sleeping hammocks provide a non-flat (e.g., curved) sleep surface, which can negatively affect user comfort and support. An example of a suspendable hammock tent with a curved sleeping surface is disclosed in <CIT>. In addition, conventional sleeping hammocks providing a flat sleep surface (e.g., a level sleeping platform) may lack sufficient structure to provide durability, stability, and/or to adequately distribute tensional forces, resulting in sleeping hammocks that are unstable, uncomfortable, and/or prone to damage. Moreover, many conventional sleeping hammocks require precise hang angles for suspension equipment (e.g., ropes, straps, anchors, etc.) in order to reduce sag and achieve a flat sleep surface. For example, <CIT> discloses an elevated observation/sleeping tent which requires attachment to four spaced apart anchors such as trees, which limits the number of suitable sites. The support structures employed by many conventional sleeping hammocks may also significantly affect the overall weight and/or profile of the sleeping hammocks, making the sleeping hammocks unappealing or impractical for many outdoor activities (e.g., backpacking). Furthermore, conventional sleeping hammocks having relatively reduced weight and/or profile often lack sufficient structural integrity and interior sleep for sustained, long-term use of the sleeping hammocks without sacrifices to durability, stability, and/or comfort.

The invention concerns a hammock tent according to appended claim <NUM>.

The ridgeline can comprise one or more of webbing, banding, ribbon, strapping, fabric, cord, cable, and rope. The tent body comprises a fabric platform, opposing fabric sides, opposing fabric ends, parabolic support structures, and one or more fastening structures. The fabric platform exhibits a quadrilateral peripheral shape, and comprises end sections each exhibiting a first width and a central section between the end sections and exhibiting a second width smaller than the first width. The opposing fabric sides are each attached to the ridgeline and the fabric platform, and each exhibit another quadrilateral peripheral shape. The opposing fabric ends are each attached to the opposing fabric sides and the fabric platform, and each exhibit a triangular peripheral shape. The parabolic support structures extend along and are attached to the opposing fabric sides. Each of the parabolic support structures individually have ends attached to the ridgeline and a vertex proximate an edge of the central section of the fabric platform. The one or more fastening structures are attached to one or more of the opposing fabric sides, and are located adjacent one or more of the parabolic support structures. The one or more fastening structures facilitate the formation of one or more closable openings in the one or more opposing fabric sides.

The invention also concerns a camping system according to appended claim <NUM>.

Hammock tents are described, as are related camping systems. In some embodiments, a hammock tent includes a ridgeline and tent body affixed to and suspended below the ridgeline. The tent body includes a platform extending generally parallel to the ridgeline, and opposing sides extending between the ridgeline and the platform. Support structures extend along and are affixed to (e.g., effectively permanently affixed to, such as sewn to) the opposing sides of the tent body. The support structures may, for example, each exhibit a parabolic shape including terminal ends located at points along the ridgeline and a vertex (e.g., apex) located at a central point along an edge of the platform of the tent body. One or more fastening structures (e.g., zippers) may extend adjacent one or more (e.g., each) of the support structures on one or more (e.g., one, each) of the opposing sides of the tent body, to facilitate access to an internal portion (e.g., bedding chamber) of the hammock tent by way of closable openings. Portions of the opposing sides of the tent body positioned above the support structures may form an integral canopy (e.g. rainfly, insect netting) of the hammock tent, wherein sections of the canopy positioned adjacent the fastening structures serve as entrance flaps (e.g., door flaps, doors) for the hammock tent. In addition, the platform of the tent body may exhibit an elongate, quadrilateral cross-sectional shape including a relatively narrow central section disposed between two relatively wider end sections. The platform may taper inward from the end sections thereof to the central section thereof. The shapes of the support structures and the platform may minimize sag in the platform and to maintain a lay flat (e.g., level) profile under load. Optionally, the hammock tent may also include one or more additional structures (e.g., spreader bars, storage structures, sleeping pad pockets, etc.) located in, on, or over the tent body. The hammock tent of the disclosure, including the support structures thereof, may be more durable, stable, and/or be better able to distribute tensional forces between the ridgeline and the platform than conventional sleeping hammocks. Moreover, the hammock tent design may enable anchors to be set at a wider range of hang angles (e.g., between about <NUM>° and about <NUM>°).

The following description provides specific details, such as material types, shapes, sizes, and arrangements in order to provide a thorough description of embodiments of the disclosure. However, a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the embodiments of the disclosure may be practiced without employing these specific details. Indeed, the embodiments of the disclosure may be practiced in conjunction with conventional fabrication techniques employed in the industry. In addition, the description provided below does not form a complete process flow for manufacturing a structure or assembly. The structures described below do not necessarily form a complete structure or a complete assembly. Additional acts to form a complete structure or a complete assembly from various structures described herein may be performed by conventional fabrication processes.

Drawings presented herein are for illustrative purposes only, and are not meant to be actual views of any particular material, component, structure, device, or assembly. Variations from the shapes depicted in the drawings as a result, for example, of manufacturing processes and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, embodiments described herein are not to be construed as being limited to the particular shapes or regions as illustrated, but include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing. For example, a region illustrated or described as box-shaped may have rough and/or nonlinear features, and a region illustrated or described as round may include some rough and/or linear features. Moreover, sharp angles that are illustrated may be rounded, and vice versa. Thus, the regions illustrated in the figures are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the precise shape of a region and do not limit the scope of the claims. Additionally, elements common between figures may retain the same numerical designation.

As used herein, the terms "comprising," "including," "containing," "characterized by," and grammatical equivalents thereof are inclusive or open-ended terms that do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or methods, but also include the more restrictive terms "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" and grammatical equivalents thereof. As used herein, the term "may" with respect to a material, structure, feature or method indicates that such is contemplated for use in implementation of an embodiment of the disclosure and such term is used in preference to the more restrictive term "is" so as to avoid any implication that other, compatible materials, structures, features and methods usable in combination therewith should or must be, excluded.

As used herein, the singular forms "a," "and" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

For example, if materials in the figures are inverted, elements described as "below" or "beneath," or "under," or "on bottom of" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" or "on top of" the other elements or features. Thus, the term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below, depending on the context in which the term is used, which will be evident to one of ordinary skill in the art. The materials may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated <NUM> degrees, inverted, flipped, etc.) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

By way of example, depending on the particular parameter, property, or condition that is substantially met, the parameter, property, or condition may be at least <NUM>% met, at least <NUM>% met, at least <NUM>% met, at least <NUM>% met, or even <NUM>% met.

As used herein, "about" or "approximately" in reference to a numerical value for a particular parameter is inclusive of the numerical value and a degree of variance from the numerical value that one of ordinary skill in the art would understand is within acceptable tolerances for the particular parameter. For example, "about" or "approximately" in reference to a numerical value may include additional numerical values within a range of from <NUM> percent to <NUM> percent of the numerical value, such as within a range of from <NUM> percent to <NUM> percent of the numerical value, within a range of from <NUM> percent to <NUM> percent of the numerical value, within a range of from <NUM> percent to <NUM> percent of the numerical value, within a range of from <NUM> percent to <NUM> percent of the numerical value, or within a range of from <NUM> percent to <NUM> percent of the numerical value.

As used herein, the term "configured" refers to a size, shape, material composition, orientation, and arrangement of one or more of at least one structure and at least one apparatus facilitating operation of one or more of the at least one structure and the at least one apparatus in a pre-determined way.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective view of a hammock tent <NUM>, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The hammock tent <NUM> includes a ridgeline <NUM>, and a tent body <NUM> attached to (e.g., effectively permanently attached to) and the ridgeline <NUM>. The tent body <NUM> may be suspended below the ridgeline <NUM> during use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>. The ridgeline <NUM> may include mounting structures <NUM> (e.g., looped ends) for attachment to anchors <NUM>. The anchors <NUM> may be a component of an attachment assembly including suspension equipment (e.g., ropes, straps, anchors, etc.) for anchoring the ridgeline <NUM> to additional structures (e.g., trees, posts, poles, etc.). Non-limiting examples of connectors that may be used to couple the anchors <NUM> to the mounting structures <NUM> of the ridgeline <NUM> include carabiners, hooks, hoops, U-bolts, and other mechanical fasteners. The anchors <NUM> may be used to suspend the ridgeline <NUM> between two structures (e.g., generally vertical structures, such as trees, posts, poles, etc.) for suspending the tent body <NUM> off a ground surface. <FIG> and <FIG> are side elevation (<FIG>) and top-down schematic (<FIG>) views the hammock tent <NUM> shown in <FIG>. For clarity and ease of understanding the drawings and related description, in <FIG>, different components of the hammock tent <NUM> are shown in a spread-out state, without attachment interfaces (e.g., seams) between and coupling edges of the different components of the hammock tent <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the ridgeline <NUM> is configured to be under tension when the tent body <NUM> of the hammock tent <NUM> is under load. In some embodiments, the ridgeline <NUM>, including the mounting structures <NUM> thereof, comprises a single, continuous structure formed of and including at least one material exhibiting desirable properties (e.g., strength, durability, weight, pliability, flexibility, etc.) for the use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>. As a non-limiting example, the ridgeline <NUM> may be formed of and include one or more of nylon, polyester, polyurethane, neoprene, and vinyl. The ridgeline <NUM> may include fibers of the material arranged in one or more tows. In turn, the tows may be grouped (e.g., woven, knitted, bunched, braided, twisted, etc.) together as desired. For example, the ridgeline <NUM> comprise one or more of a webbing structure, a banding structure, a ribbon structure, a strapping structure, a fabric structure, a cord structure, a cable structure, and a rope structure. In some embodiments, the ridgeline <NUM> comprises a nylon webbing structure.

Referring collectively to <FIG>, the tent body <NUM> of the hammock tent <NUM> includes a platform <NUM> (e.g., a fabric platform), opposing sides <NUM> (e.g., opposing fabric sides), and opposing ends <NUM> (e.g., opposing fabric ends). The platform <NUM> may comprise a base structure (e.g., bottom structure) of the tent body <NUM> underlying the ridgeline <NUM>. The opposing sides <NUM> may be positioned adjacent first opposing edges of the platform <NUM>, and may extend from and between the platform <NUM> and the ridgeline <NUM>. The opposing ends <NUM> may be positioned adjacent second opposing edges of the platform <NUM>, and may also extend from and between the platform <NUM> and the ridgeline <NUM>. The opposing ends <NUM> may laterally intervene between the opposing sides <NUM>. In some embodiments, the platform <NUM>, each of the opposing sides <NUM>, and each of the opposing ends <NUM> comprise discrete structures affixed (e.g., sewn, stitched, adhered, bonded, taped, etc.) to one another. In additional embodiments, two or more of the platform <NUM>, at least one (e.g., each) of the opposing sides <NUM>, and at least one (e.g., each) of the opposing ends <NUM> comprise different portions of a single (e.g., only one) integral and continuous structure. Put another way, two or more of the platform <NUM>, at least one of the opposing sides <NUM>, and at least one of the opposing ends <NUM> may be substantially free of seams intervening therebetween. At least a portion of each of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> may be attached (e.g., sewn, stitched, adhered, bonded, taped) to the ridgeline <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the platform <NUM> (e.g., fabric platform, sleeping platform, base) of the tent body <NUM> exhibits a quadrilateral peripheral (e.g., outermost) shape including a relatively narrow central section disposed between two relatively wider end sections. The platform <NUM> may taper inward from the end sections thereof to the central section thereof. As shown in <FIG>, first opposing edges 116A of the platform <NUM> may each exhibit an arcuate (e.g., concave) shape, and second opposing edges 116B of the platform <NUM> may each exhibit a substantially non-arcuate (e.g., substantially linear) shape. The first opposing edges 116A of the platform <NUM> may located adjacent edges of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>; and the second opposing edges 116B of the platform <NUM> may be located adj acent the edges of the opposing ends <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first opposing edges 116A of the platform <NUM> are sewn to edges of the each of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>, and the second opposing edges 116B of the platform <NUM> are sewn to edges of each of the opposing ends <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. Corners <NUM> may intervene between the first opposing edges 116A and the second opposing edges 116B of the platform <NUM>. The corners <NUM> may exhibit any desired shape, such as a rounded (e.g., arcuate, radiused) shape, a non-rounded (e.g., angled) shape, or a combination thereof.

The platform <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> may be formed of and include at least one material exhibiting desirable properties (e.g., strength, durability, water resistance, weight, pliability, flexibility, etc.) for the use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>. By way of non-limiting example, the platform <NUM> may be formed of and include one or more of nylon (e.g., treated ripstop, taffeta nylon, etc.), polyester, polyurethane, neoprene, vinyl, cotton, hemp, and a composite material. In some embodiments, the platform <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> comprises a material (e.g., a treated material, an untreated material) that is substantially water resistant. The platform <NUM> may include fibers of the material arranged in one or more tows. In turn, the tows may be grouped (e.g., woven, knitted) together as desired. For example, the platform <NUM> may comprise a woven fabric or a knitted fabric. In some embodiments, the platform <NUM> comprises a woven fabric. A material composition of the platform <NUM> may be substantially the same as or may be different than that of one or more of opposing sides <NUM> and the opposing ends <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. In some embodiments, the platform <NUM> comprises a different (e.g., heavier) material than the opposing sides <NUM> and the opposing ends <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the opposing ends <NUM> (e.g., opposing fabric ends) of the tent body <NUM> may each individually exhibit a substantially triangular (e.g., isosceles or equilateral) shape. Lowermost edges of the opposing ends <NUM> may be located adj acent the second opposing edges 116B (<FIG>) of the platform <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>; and side edges of the opposing ends <NUM> may be located adjacent side edges of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. In some embodiments, the lower edges of the opposing ends <NUM> are sewn to the second opposing edges 116B (<FIG>) of the platform <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>, and the side edges of the opposing ends <NUM> are sewn to the side edges of opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. In some embodiments, portions (e.g., upper corners) of each of the opposing ends <NUM> are directly attached (e.g., sewn) to the ridgeline <NUM>. In additional embodiments, the opposing ends <NUM> are each indirectly attached (e.g., attached by way of one or more structures connected thereto, such as the opposing sides <NUM>) to the ridgeline <NUM>.

The opposing ends <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> may each individually be formed of and include at least one material exhibiting desirable properties (e.g., strength, durability, water resistance, weight, pliability, flexibility, etc.) for the use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>. By way of non-limiting example, the opposing ends <NUM> may each individually be formed of and include one or more of nylon, polyester, polyurethane, neoprene, vinyl, cotton, hemp, and a composite material. In some embodiments, the opposing ends <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> each comprise a material (e.g., a treated material, an untreated material) that is substantially water resistant. The opposing ends <NUM> may include fibers of the material arranged in one or more tows. In turn, the tows may be grouped (e.g., woven, knitted) together as desired. For example, the opposing ends <NUM> may comprise one or more of a woven fabric and a knitted fabric. In some embodiments, the opposing ends <NUM> each comprise a woven fabric. The opposing ends <NUM> may have substantially the same material composition or different material compositions than one another. In addition, the material composition of the opposing ends <NUM> may be substantially the same as or may be different than that of one or more of the platform <NUM> and opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the opposing sides <NUM> (e.g., opposing fabric sides) of the tent body <NUM> may each individually exhibit a quadrilateral peripheral shape (e.g., a rectangular peripheral shape, a trapezoidal peripheral shape). Lowermost edges of the opposing sides <NUM> may be located adj acent the first opposing edges 116A (<FIG>) of the platform <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>; and side edges of the opposing side <NUM> may be located adjacent the side edges of the opposing ends <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. In some embodiments, the lowermost edges of the opposing sides <NUM> are sewn to the first opposing edges 116A (<FIG>) of the platform <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>, and the side edges of the opposing sides <NUM> are sewn to the side edges of opposing end <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. In some embodiments, at least a portion of each of the opposing sides <NUM> is directly attached (e.g., sewn) to the ridgeline <NUM>.

The opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> may each individually be formed of and include at least one material exhibiting desirable properties (e.g., strength, durability, water resistance, weight, pliability, flexibility, etc.) for the use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>. By way of non-limiting example, the opposing sides <NUM> may each individually be formed of and include one or more of nylon, polyester, polyurethane, neoprene, vinyl, cotton, hemp, and a composite material. In some embodiments, the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> each comprise a material (e.g., a treated material, an untreated material) that is substantially water resistant. The opposing sides <NUM> may include fibers of the material arranged in one or more tows. In turn, the tows may be grouped (e.g., woven, knitted) together as desired. For example, major portions of each of the opposing side <NUM> may comprise one or more of a woven fabric and a knitted fabric. In some embodiments, major portions of the opposing side <NUM> each comprise a woven fabric. The opposing side <NUM> may have substantially the same material composition or different material compositions than one another. In addition, the material composition of major portions (e.g., major woven fabric portions) of the opposing side <NUM> may be substantially the same as or may be different than material compositions of one or more of the platform <NUM> and opposing ends <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>.

With continued collective reference to <FIG>, support structures <NUM> extend along and are attached to the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. The support structures <NUM> may extend from attachment points <NUM> on the ridgeline <NUM> to locations at or proximate the relatively narrow central section of the platform <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. Opposing terminal ends of each of the support structures <NUM> may be effectively (e.g., absent permanent destructive action to one or more attachment structures) permanently attached (e.g., sewn, stitched, adhesively bonded) or may be removably attached (e.g., removably fastened, removably anchored, removably clipped) to the attachment points <NUM> along the ridgeline <NUM>. In addition, the support structures <NUM> may be directly attached (e.g., sewn) to the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>, or may be disposed within another structure (e.g., a sleeve structure) directly attached to or integral with the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. The support structures <NUM> may be attached to one or more of exterior (e.g., outer) surfaces and interior (e.g., inner) surfaces of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. In some embodiments, the support structures <NUM> are sewn to exterior surfaces of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. In additional embodiments, the support structures <NUM> are sewn to interior surfaces of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>.

The support structures <NUM> may be formed of and include one or more materials exhibiting desirable properties (e.g., strength, durability, weight, pliability, flexibility, etc.) for the use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>. By way of non-limiting example, the support structures <NUM> may be formed of and include one or more of nylon, polyester, polyurethane, neoprene, and vinyl. The support structures <NUM> may include fibers of the material arranged in one or more tows. In turn, the tows may be grouped (e.g., woven, knitted, bunched, braided, twisted, etc.) together as desired. For example, the support structures <NUM> comprise one or more of webbing structures, ribbon structures, strapping structures, fabric structures, cord structures, cable structures, and rope structures. In some embodiments, the support structures <NUM> comprise nylon webbing structures.

As shown in each of <FIG>, the support structures <NUM> may each individually exhibit a parabolic shape including two opposing ends located at different attachment points <NUM> than one another along the ridgeline <NUM>, and an apex <NUM> (e.g., a vertex) at or proximate a centerline of the platform114. The parabolic shape of the support structures <NUM>, as well as the relatively narrow width of the central section of the platform <NUM> (e.g., as compared the widths of the end sections of the platform <NUM>), may substantially limit sagging of the central section of the platform <NUM> during use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>. The parabolic shape of the support structures <NUM> may, for example, distribute tensional forces between the ridgeline <NUM> and the platform <NUM> in the manner depicted by the phantom line <NUM> shown in <FIG>. In additional embodiments, one or more (e.g., each) of the support structures <NUM> may exhibit a non-parabolic shape that impedes (e.g., substantially prevents) sagging of the central section of the platform <NUM>. As a non-limiting example, at least one (e.g., each) of the support structures <NUM> may exhibit a different arcuate profile (e.g., a non-parabolic arcuate profile, such as a non-parabolic inverted arc profile). As another non-limiting example, at least one (e.g., each) of the support structures <NUM> may exhibit a V-shaped profile. As an additional non-limiting example, at least one of the support structures <NUM> may exhibit a different shape having multiple (e.g., three) portions (e.g., multiple apexes, multiple ends, etc.) at or proximate the first opposing edges 116A (<FIG>) of the platform <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, upper portions of the opposing sides <NUM> positioned above the support structures <NUM> may form a canopy <NUM> of the hammock tent <NUM>. The canopy <NUM> may be affixed (e.g., sewn, stitched, adhered, bonded, etc.) to the ridgeline <NUM>. In some embodiments, canopy <NUM> comprises a single (e.g., only) structure (e.g., a single piece of fabric) attached to the ridgeline <NUM> and operatively associated with (e.g., removably fastened to) lower portions of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. In additional embodiments, the canopy <NUM> comprises multiple (e.g., more than one) structures (e.g., multiple pieces of fabric) attached to the ridgeline <NUM> and operatively associated with (e.g., removably fastened to) the lower portions of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. For example, the canopy <NUM> may comprise two separate pieces of fabric attached (e.g., sewn) to the ridgeline <NUM>, wherein one of the pieces is operatively associated with a first of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>, and the other of the pieces is operatively associated with a second of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. As another example, the canopy <NUM> may comprise multiple pieces of fabric in a stacked relationship with one another. At least one lower portion of the canopy <NUM> may, for example, comprise a mesh fabric (e.g., nylon mesh) configured to protect against insects while enabling adequate visibility and air flow; and at least one upper portion of the canopy <NUM> overlying the lower portion of the canopy <NUM> may, for example, comprise a lightweight, water-resistant (e.g., substantially water-proof) fabric (e.g., nylon fabric, polyester fabric, etc.) configured to shield against one or more of rain, wind, and direct sunlight. In such embodiments, the lower portion and the upper portion of the canopy <NUM> may each individually be attached (e.g., sewn) to the ridgeline <NUM> and may be operatively associated with (e.g., removably fastened to) the lower portions of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, one or more (e.g., each) of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> may exhibit fastening structures <NUM> attached thereto that facilitate access to an interior region of the tent body <NUM>. The fastening structures <NUM> may, for example, include one or more of zippers, ties, clips, rivets, buttons, hooks and loops, and straps having hook and eye connections (e.g., VELCRO® straps). In some embodiments, at least one of the fastening structures <NUM> comprises a single, continuous zipper extending along the path at least one of the support structures <NUM>. The fastening structures <NUM> may be located along edges of the opposing sides <NUM> proximate upper edges the support structures <NUM>. For example, lower portions (e.g., lower zipper teeth) of the fastening structures <NUM> may be attached to upper edges of lower portions of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> located adjacent upper edges of the support structures <NUM>, and upper portions (e.g., upper zipper teeth) of the fastening structures <NUM> may be attached to lower edges of the canopy <NUM> located proximate the support structures <NUM> when the tent body <NUM> is in a closed state. In additional embodiments, the path of at least one (e.g., each) of the fastening structures <NUM> does not completely follow the path of the support structure <NUM> most proximate thereto. Upper portions (e.g., portions proximate the ridgeline <NUM>) of the fastening structures <NUM> (and, hence, edges of the opposing sides <NUM> proximate thereto) may, for example, deviate from the paths of upper portions (e.g., portions extending from and proximate the attachment points <NUM> along the ridgeline <NUM>) of the of the support structures <NUM>. By way of non-limiting example, upper portions of the fastening structures <NUM> (and, hence, edges of the opposing sides <NUM> proximate thereto) may extend from points along the ridgeline <NUM> laterally inward of the attachment points <NUM>, such that the upper portions of fastening structures <NUM> extend substantially orthogonal to the ridgeline <NUM>, as depicted by dashed lines in <FIG> and <FIG>. Extending upper portions of the fastening structures <NUM> substantially orthogonal to the ridgeline <NUM> may simplify opening and closing the tent body <NUM> from an interior region (e.g., bedding chamber) thereof. In embodiments wherein the canopy <NUM> includes a stack of multiple pieces of fabric (e.g., insect netting, and a rainfly overlying the insect netting) inner fastening structures 132A may be configured and positioned to secure lower portions (e.g., insect netting) of the canopy <NUM> to the lower portions of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>, and outer attachment structures 132B may be configured and positioned to secure outer portions (e.g., a rainfly) of the canopy <NUM> to the lower portions of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. Each of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> may exhibit fastening structures <NUM> attached thereto, or only one of the of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> may exhibit fastening structures <NUM> attached thereto.

Acting upon the fastening structures <NUM> facilitates forming (or closing) at least one opening <NUM> in the tent body <NUM>. For example, if the fastening structures <NUM> comprise zippers, unzipping the fastening structures <NUM> may form the opening <NUM> in the tent body <NUM>, and zipping the fastening structures <NUM> may close the opening <NUM>. The fastening structures <NUM> may be acted upon (e.g., zipped, unzipped) from inside the tent body <NUM> and from outside the tent body <NUM>. At least one section of the canopy <NUM> proximate the fastening structures <NUM> may serve as an entrance flap (e.g., door flap, door) for the tent body <NUM> of the hammock tent <NUM>. In addition, the canopy <NUM> may have at least one tether structure <NUM> (e.g., loop, strap, rope, banding, cord, carabineer, hook, hoop, U-bolt, mechanical fastener, combinations thereof) attached thereto for securing sections of the canopy <NUM> serving as an entrance flap in an open position (e.g., a position wherein the opening <NUM> in the tent body <NUM> is present). As shown in <FIG>, the tether structure <NUM> may, for example, be secured to one or more additional structures (e.g., a tree, a post, a pole, etc.) to provide cover (e.g., protection from precipitation, protection from sunlight) for the outside area leading into the opening <NUM> in the tent body <NUM>. In embodiments wherein the only one of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> includes fastening structures <NUM> attached thereto, a single (e.g., only one) opening <NUM> may be formed in the tent body <NUM> by way of the fastening structures <NUM>. In additional embodiments wherein each of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> includes fastening structures <NUM> attached thereto, multiple (e.g., more than one, such as two) openings <NUM> may be formed in the tent body <NUM> by way of the fastening structures <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, edges of the opposing sides <NUM> at least partially defining the openings <NUM> may, optionally, be shielded with at least one protective covering <NUM>. For example, one or more pieces of material (e.g., water resistant fabric, rubber, etc.) may cover one or more portions of the fastening structures <NUM> employed to form (and close) the openings <NUM> to impede (e.g., prevent) moisture from entering (e.g., seeping, leaking) into the interior region of the tent body <NUM>. In some embodiments, when the fastening structures <NUM> are in a closed state, the protective covering <NUM> extends over and past one or more portions of the fastening structures <NUM> by about <NUM> inch (<NUM>) to about <NUM> inches (<NUM>) (e.g., from about <NUM> inches (<NUM>) to about <NUM> inches (<NUM>)). The protective covering <NUM> may, for example, be attached (e.g., sewn) to portions of the canopy <NUM> proximate the fastening structures <NUM>. In some embodiments, the protective covering <NUM> partially extends across the path(s) of the fastening structures <NUM> to cover less than an entirety of the fastening structures <NUM> when the fastening structures <NUM> are in a closed state. For example, the protective covering <NUM> may only cover portions of the fastening structures <NUM> proximate (e.g., within about <NUM> inches (<NUM>), such as within about <NUM> inches (<NUM>), such as within about <NUM> inches (<NUM>)) the ridgeline <NUM>. In additional embodiments, the protective covering <NUM> substantially completely extends across the path(s) of the fastening structures <NUM>, to substantially completely cover the fastening structures <NUM> when the fastening structures <NUM> are in a closed state.

With continued reference to <FIG>, optionally, the hammock tent <NUM> may also include one or more storage structures <NUM>. The storage structures <NUM> may include one or more structures (e.g., pouches, pockets, compartments, straps, gear hooks, etc.) for storing items outside and/or within the tent body <NUM>. In some embodiments, one or more storage structures <NUM> are attached to one or more external surfaces of the tent body <NUM>, such as one or more external surfaces of one or more of the opposing ends <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. In additional embodiments, one or more storage structures <NUM> are attached to one or more internal surfaces of the tent body <NUM>, such as one or more internal surfaces of one or more of the opposing ends <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the hammock tent <NUM> may, optionally, further include additional attachment structures <NUM> (e.g., ties, straps, loops, etc.) that may be coupled to other structures to provide additional stability to the hammock tent <NUM>. If present, the additional attachment structures <NUM> may extend from external surfaces of the tent body <NUM>, such as from locations proximate at least some (e.g., two, four) of the corners <NUM> of the platform <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a partial perspective view of an interior region <NUM> of the hammock tent <NUM> during use and operation thereof. The interior region <NUM> may, for example, serve as a bedding chamber (e.g., sleeping region) for one or more individuals (e.g., occupants, people) during use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>. The interior region <NUM> may be at least partially defined by interior surfaces of the platform <NUM>, the opposing sides <NUM>, and the opposing ends <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. The interior region <NUM> may also contain (e.g., hold, bound) one or more additional structures (e.g., spreader bars, bedding pads, storage structures, etc.), as described in further detail below.

As shown in <FIG>, one or more spreader bars <NUM> may, optionally, be provided within the interior region <NUM> of the hammock tent <NUM> during the use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>. The spreader bars <NUM> may comprise elongate structures (e.g., rods, poles, shafts) configured and positioned to expand (e.g., widen, broaden) the separation between upper portions of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. Opposing ends of each spreader bar <NUM> may be positioned adjacent to the support structures <NUM> attached to the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. Each spreader bar <NUM> may substantially laterally extend between the support structures <NUM> in a direction transverse to that of the ridgeline <NUM> of the hammock tent <NUM>. The opposing ends of each spreader bar <NUM> may be removably secured to interior surfaces of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> and/or interior surfaces of the support structures <NUM> with coupling members <NUM> positioned along the paths of the support structures <NUM>. The coupling members <NUM> (e.g., washers, nuts, T-nuts, rivets, etc.) may be positioned and configured to retain the spreader bars <NUM> against and between the support structures <NUM> as the opposing sides <NUM> move and shift under load. Each spreader bar <NUM> may individually be formed of and include a rigid material, such as one or more of a metal material, a polymeric (e.g., plastic) material, a ceramic material, and a solid organic material (e.g., wicker, wood, etc.). Each spreader bar <NUM> may be configured to withstand compressive forces, and may be positioned to distribute (e.g., redirect) at least a portion of the load to the support structures <NUM>. In some embodiments, the hammock tent <NUM> includes at least two spreader bars <NUM>, with at least one of the spreader bars <NUM> being positioned proximate one of the opposing ends <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> during use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>, and at least one other of the spreader bars <NUM> positioned proximate the other of the opposing ends <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> during use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>. In additional embodiments, the hammock tent <NUM> includes only one (e.g., a single) spreader bar <NUM> positioned proximate only one of the opposing ends <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> during use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>. In additional embodiments, the hammock tent <NUM> is free of any spreader bars <NUM> (e.g., the spreader bars are absent from the hammock tent <NUM>).

With continued reference to <FIG>, a bedding pad <NUM> (e.g., an air mattress, a foam pad) may, optionally, be provided within the interior region <NUM> during use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>. The bedding pad <NUM> may be provided over an interior surface of the platform <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>, and may laterally extend between each of the opposing sides <NUM> and each of the opposing ends <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. In some embodiments, the tent body <NUM> is configured such that the apex <NUM> of each of the support structures <NUM> is positioned below an upper surface of the bedding pad <NUM> during use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>. The apexes <NUM> of the support structures <NUM> may, for example, be positioned directly at the first opposing edges 116A (<FIG>) of the platform <NUM> of the tent body <NUM>. In additional embodiments, the tent body <NUM> is configured such the apexes <NUM> of the support structures <NUM> are positioned above the upper surface of the bedding pad <NUM> during use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>. Portions of the opposing sides <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> may intervene between the apexes <NUM> of the support structures <NUM> and first opposing edges 116A (<FIG>) of the platform <NUM>. For example, the apex <NUM> of each of the support structures <NUM> may be offset from one of the first opposing edges 116A (<FIG>) of the platform <NUM> most proximate thereto by a distance within a range of from about <NUM> inch (<NUM>) to about <NUM> inches (<NUM>) (e.g., from about <NUM> inches (<NUM>) to about <NUM> inches (<NUM>), from about <NUM> inches (<NUM>) to about <NUM> inches (<NUM>), or from about <NUM> inches (<NUM>) to about <NUM> inches (<NUM>)). In such embodiments, the bedding pad <NUM> may be substantially laterally surrounded by the material of the opposing sides <NUM> and the opposing ends <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> during use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>, even when the opening <NUM> is formed in at least one of the opposing sides <NUM> by way of the fastening structures <NUM> (<FIG>) (e.g., zippers) operatively associated therewith. Accordingly, lower portions of the opposing sides <NUM> and the opposing ends <NUM> may form a bedding pocket <NUM> for the bedding pad <NUM>. Positioning the apexes <NUM> of the support structures <NUM> above the bedding pad <NUM> may enhance the ease and simplicity of accessing the interior region <NUM> of the hammock tent <NUM> by way of the openings <NUM>. For example, providing the apexes <NUM> of the support structures <NUM> above the bedding pad <NUM> may preclude the sides of the bedding pad <NUM> from impeding the movement of devices (e.g., one or more sliders) of the fastening structures <NUM> (<FIG>) (e.g., zippers) past the bedding pad <NUM> when it is desired to access the interior region <NUM> of the hammock tent <NUM> by way of the openings <NUM>.

<FIG> are perspective views of a portion of the hammock tent <NUM> shown in <FIG> during use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>. <FIG> show enlarged views of the attachment points <NUM>, and the mounting structures <NUM> of the ridgeline <NUM>, and the anchors <NUM> previously discussed above with reference to <FIG>. As discussed above, the support structures <NUM> of the tent body <NUM> of the hammock tent <NUM> may be attached to the ridgeline <NUM> at the attachment points <NUM> of the ridgeline <NUM>, and the mounting structures <NUM> may be indirectly attached to the anchors <NUM>. Since tensional forces are distributed between the ridgeline <NUM> and the platform <NUM> (<FIG>) of the tent body <NUM> using the support structures <NUM>, the hammock tent <NUM> may be suspended using a wider range of hang angles <NUM> (e.g., attachment angles) of the anchors <NUM> as compared to conventional hammock tent configurations. By way of non-limiting example, the ridgeline <NUM> may be suspended from the anchors <NUM> when the anchors <NUM> that are set at a hang angle <NUM> within a range of from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees relative to a horizontal plane of the platform <NUM> (e.g., level sleeping platform). Conversely, most conventional hammock systems require a hang angle of about <NUM> degrees. As shown in <FIG>, in some embodiments, the hammock tent <NUM> is suspended above the ground when the anchors <NUM> are attached to support structures at a hang angle <NUM> of about <NUM> degrees. As shown in <FIG>, in additional embodiments, the hammock tent <NUM> is suspended above the ground when the anchors <NUM> are attached to support structures at a hang angle <NUM> of about <NUM> degrees. Thus, the anchors <NUM> may each individually be set at a hang angle <NUM> within a range of from <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees relative to horizontal, while enabling a lay flat (e.g., level) profile of the platform <NUM> (<FIG>) of the hammock tent <NUM> under load.

Optionally, the mounting structures <NUM> and/or the anchors <NUM> may be configured and positioned for attachment to portable structural supports (e.g., tent poles, such as collapsible tent poles) for instances when structures (e.g., stationary structures, such as trees, embedded posts, embedded poles, etc.) capable of suspending the hammock tent <NUM> above a surface of the ground are unavailable, and it is desired to utilize the hammock tent <NUM> on the ground. In such embodiments, the platform <NUM> (<FIG>) of the tent body <NUM> may at least partially rest on the ground during use and operation of the hammock tent <NUM>, with support being provided to upper portions of the tent body <NUM> by way of structural supports (e.g., tent poles) extending between the ground and one or more of the ridgeline <NUM>, the mounting structures <NUM>, and the anchors <NUM>.

Outdoor camping structures including hammock tents (e.g., the hammock tent <NUM>) in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure may be used in embodiments of camping systems of the disclosure. Such camping systems may, for example, include the hammock tent <NUM> previously described in relation to <FIG>, as well as one or more additional structures and/or devices. By way of non-limiting example, a camping system of the disclosure may include the hammock tent <NUM> (including the tent body <NUM> and the ridgeline <NUM> thereof), and a containment vessel (e.g. bag, backpack, etc.) for holding and storing the hammock tent <NUM>. The hammock tent <NUM> may, for example, be readily manipulated (e.g., folded, rolled, compressed) for placement within an internal chamber of the containment vessel. The combination of the hammock tent <NUM> and the containment vessel may be relatively light weight (e.g., less than or equal to about <NUM> pounds (<NUM>), such as less than or equal to about <NUM> pounds (<NUM>), or less than or equal to about <NUM> pounds (<NUM>)), facilitating simple transport and use of the hammock tent <NUM> for a wide variety of applications (e.g., hiking, camping, mountaineering, on-foot excursions, etc.).

The hammock tents (e.g., the hammock tent <NUM>) and camping systems of the disclosure may be more durable, comfortable (e.g., facilitating a more flat sleeping surface), stable, efficient (e.g., including fewer discrete parts to manage and arrange; having improved distribution of forces under load; having reduced weight and bulk, etc.), and adaptable (e.g., usable under a relatively wider range of hang angles and site conditions) than conventional hammock tents and camping systems.

Claim 1:
A hammock tent (<NUM>), comprising:
a ridgeline (<NUM>); and
a tent body (<NUM>) attached to the ridgeline (<NUM>) and comprising:
a platform (<NUM>) comprising:
two end sections; and
a central section between the two end sections;
opposing sides (<NUM>) attached to first opposing edges (116A) of the platform (<NUM>); and
opposing ends (<NUM>) positioned between the opposing sides (<NUM>) and
attached to edges of the opposing sides (<NUM>) and second opposing edges (116B) of the platform (<NUM>);
characterized in that the two end sections are each relatively wider than the central section and the hammock tent (<NUM>) further comprises support structures (<NUM>) attached to the opposing sides (<NUM>) and each comprising ends attached to the ridgeline (<NUM>) and an apex (<NUM>) proximate the central section of the platform (<NUM>).