Apparatus and method for lighting a collapsible structure

Abstract

A solar power generator for a structure comprising a collapsible frame assembly is provided. The solar power generator includes a solar panel removably coupled to the collapsible frame assembly. The solar panel is configured to absorb solar energy from the sun. A power module is electrically coupled to the solar panel. The power module includes a power source that is configured to convert the solar energy absorbed by the solar panel to electrical energy. At least one power output is electrically coupled to the power source and configured to supply electrical energy to a coupled load device.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of Chinese Patent Application 200520126787.2 entitled “Solar Tent” filed on Dec. 29, 2005, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to collapsible structures, such as tents and gazebos, and, more particularly, to collapsible structures having an apparatus for converting solar energy to electrical energy and providing that energy to an interior space defined by the collapsible structure.

Camping and social activities are becoming increasingly popular. With people's current living, standards improving, so are the demands for simplified and user-friendly camping and/or social activity structures. For example, tents are becoming a favored necessity for camping activities. To provide more enjoyment for the camper, electric home appliances and/or lighting devices provide the modem conveniences that the camper is accustom to in his or her lifestyle. In many camping situations, batteries are the only available power source for these conveniences. However, many conventional batteries supply only a limited amount of electric power.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, a solar power generator for a structure including a collapsible frame assembly is provided. The solar power generator includes a solar panel removably coupled to the collapsible frame assembly. The solar panel is configured to absorb solar energy from the sun. A power module is electrically coupled to the solar panel. The power module includes a power source configured to convert the solar energy absorbed by the solar panel to electrical energy. At least one power output is electrically coupled to the power source and configured to supply electrical energy to a coupled load device.

In another aspect, a collapsible structure is provided. The collapsible structure includes a hub. A solar panel is removably coupled to the hub. The solar panel is configured to absorb solar energy from the sun. A power module is electrically coupled to the solar panel. The power module includes a power source configured to convert the solar energy absorbed by the solar panel to electrical energy. The power module defines a plurality of first power ports positioned about an outer housing of the power module and electrically coupled to the power source. A first light source is removably electrically coupled to a corresponding power port. Each first light source is configured to receive electrical energy from the power source.

In another aspect, a method for lighting an interior space defined by a collapsible structure is provided. The method includes providing a collapsible structure including a hub and a plurality of frame members each pivotally coupled to the hub. The frame members at least partially form a collapsible frame assembly of the collapsible structure. A solar power generator is removably coupled to the collapsible structure. The solar power generator includes a solar panel that is removably coupled to the hub and configured to absorb solar energy from the sun. A power module is electrically coupled to the solar panel. The power module includes a power source that is configured to convert the solar energy absorbed by the solar panel to electrical energy. At least a portion of the electrical energy is supplied to at least one lighting source electrically coupled to the power source. The at least one lighting source is configured to receive the electrical energy and emit light.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic sectional view of an exemplary collapsible structure;

FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view of the collapsible structure shown in FIG. 1 with a portion of the tent structure removed to show an interior space defined by the collapsible structure;

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of the collapsible structure shown in FIG. 1 in a collapsed configuration;

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a portion of the collapsible structure shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary collapsible structure;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portion of the collapsible structure shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the collapsible structure shown in FIG. 5 with a rain fly;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an interior space defined by the collapsible structure shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a portion of the collapsible structure shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a portion of the collapsible structure shown in FIG. 5 in a collapsed configuration;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an exemplary solar panel coupled to a ridge hub;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an exemplary ridge hub and an exemplary solar panel removably attachable to the ridge hub;

FIG. 13A is a perspective view of an exemplary power module;

FIG. 13B is a perspective view of an alternative exemplary power module;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary lighting device removably coupled to the power module shown in FIG. 13A;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an exemplary collapsible structure;

FIG. 16 is an exploded view of the collapsible structure shown in FIG. 15 with the roof structure removed;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a portion of the collapsible structure shown in FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an exemplary collapsible structure;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an exemplary collapsible structure;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an interior space defined at least partially by roof surface of the collapsible structure shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the collapsible structure shown in FIG. 18 in a collapsed configuration;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an exemplary solar panel coupled to the collapsible structure shown in FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the solar panel shown in FIG. 22 decoupled from the collapsible structure; and

FIG. 24 is a front view of a collapsible structure in a collapsed configuration for storage within a storage bag.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a collapsible structure, such as a tent, a canopy or a gazebo, including an apparatus for facilitating converting solar energy to electrical energy for supplying electric power to a load device, such as an appliance and/or a lighting device for lighting an interior space defined by the collapsible structure and/or an exterior area about the collapsible structure. In one embodiment, the apparatus utilizes photovoltaic principles to generate electrical energy from solar power obtained from the sun.

The present invention is described below in reference to its application in connection with and operation of an apparatus and method for facilitating lighting an interior space defined by a collapsible structure, such as a tent, a canopy or a gazebo. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided that the invention is likewise applicable to any suitable collapsible and/or permanent structure for facilitating providing electric power to any suitable load device including, without limitation, a household appliance and/or a lighting device.

FIGS. 1-4 show an exemplary collapsible structure 25. In this embodiment, collapsible structure 25 is a tent 30 that includes a main tent structure 32 formed of a suitable fabric material. Tent structure 32 is coupled to a collapsible frame assembly 34 to form a plurality of walls 36. A floor 38 is coupled to each wall 36 to form the collapsible structure and define an interior space 39 therein. Interior space 39 is large enough to comfortably accommodate one or more people. It is apparent to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided that tent 30 may include any suitable number of walls having any suitable size and/or shape.

Collapsible frame assembly 34 includes a roof assembly 40 that includes a plurality of collapsible ribs or frame members 42 pivotally coupled to a rib holder or ridge hub 44. In one embodiment, collapsible frame assembly 34 includes four groups of collapsible frame members 42 pivotally coupled to ridge hub 44 to form roof assembly 40. Roof assembly 40 also includes a plurality of spreaders 45 coupled to a second hub 46. As shown in FIG. 4, second hub 46 is generally aligned coaxially with ridge hub 44. In one embodiment, roof assembly 40 includes four groups of spreaders 45 coupled to second hub 46. In a particular embodiment, each spreader 45 is slidably coupled about a corresponding frame member 42. In this embodiment, spreader 45 slides along a length of collapsible frame member 42 for facilitating moving collapsible frame assembly 34 between an erected configuration and a collapsed configuration, as shown in FIG. 3.

Referring further to FIG. 3, an elastic spring 47 is in a state of energy storage with tent 30 in the collapsed configuration such that collapsible frame assembly 34 is extended through an outer force applied from second hub 46 to spreaders 45 under a restoring force of spring 47 for facilitating collapsing tent 30. In this embodiment, the user applies a sufficient force to second hub 46 to move second hub 46 in an upward direction, along with ridge hub 44, and at the same time an extension force of collapsible frame assembly 34 will lapse to allow tent 30 to collapse.

As shown in the FIG. 4, tent 30 includes a solar apparatus 50 that is removably coupled to ridge hub 44. In one embodiment, solar apparatus 50 includes a solar panel 52, a storage battery (not shown), a circuit board (not shown) and a power output end 54. Further, solar apparatus 50 includes an electric power source including a storage device for facilitating providing electric power to a coupled load device. In one embodiment, a plug is electrically coupled to the power source to removably couple the load device to the power source. In a particular embodiment, a photoconductor device is coupled to the circuit board.

In one embodiment, solar apparatus 50 forms an arcuate or circular ring protrusion 56 on a bottom surface 58 of solar apparatus 50. In this embodiment, protrusion 56 is configured to be threadedly coupled to ridge hub 44. It is apparent to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided that protrusion 56 and/or ridge hub 44 may form or define any suitable mechanism for removably coupling solar apparatus 50 to ridge hub 44. Solar apparatus 50 includes a conductive wire 60 extending from bottom surface 58 and within arcuate ring protrusion 56 to electrically couple the storage battery of solar apparatus 50 to a socket 62. In a particular embodiment, conductive wire 60 extends through tent structure 32 and/or ridge hub 44. Socket 62 includes a plurality of power ports (not shown) that are electrically coupled to conductive wire 60 and extend radially about an outer surface of socket 62. Additionally or alternatively, socket 62 includes a power port (not shown) that is electrically coupled to conductive wire 60 and extends generally coaxially with ridge hub 44 and second hub 46 from a bottom surface of socket 62. In one embodiment, a cap (not shown) is threadedly coupled to ridge hub 44 to prevent damage to an interior region of ridge hub 44 with solar apparatus 50 removed from ridge hub 44.

Referring further to FIGS. 2 and 4, a lighting device 70 is electrically coupled to solar apparatus 50 and configured to receive electrical energy produced by solar apparatus 50 for facilitating providing light to interior space 39 defined within tent 30. In one embodiment, lighting device 70 includes a plurality of pipe lights 72 having a LED indicator that is positioned within a corresponding transparent tube or pipe 74. In this embodiment, each transparent tube 74 is coupled to main tent structure 32 and/or a corresponding frame member 42. Each pipe light 72 includes a power output end that is electrically coupled to a corresponding power port formed within socket 62. In an alternative embodiment, a fluorescent light 76 is electrically coupled within the power port formed in the bottom surface of socket 62. It is apparent to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided that any suitable number of lights and/or type of electrical lighting devices can be used with solar apparatus 50 of the present invention for facilitating illuminating interior space 39 defined by tent 30.

FIGS. 5-14 show an exemplary collapsible structure 125. As shown in FIGS. 5-7, collapsible structure 125 is a tent 130 that includes a main tent structure 132 formed of a suitable fabric material. Tent structure 132 is coupled to a collapsible frame assembly 134 to form a plurality of walls 136. A floor 138 is coupled to each wall 136 to form the collapsible structure and define an interior space 139 therein. Interior space 139 is large enough to comfortably accommodate one or more people. It is apparent to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided that tent 130 may include any suitable number of walls 136 having any suitable size and/or shape. As shown in FIG. 5, a first wall 136 forms a door 140 that is configured to provide access to interior space 139 through an opening 141 defined within wall 136. In one embodiment, at least one window 142 is formed in at least one wall 136. In a particular embodiment, tent 130 includes a ceiling panel 143, as shown in FIG. 6, coupled to each wall 136 to define a ceiling of tent 130.

Referring further to FIG. 5, collapsible frame assembly 134 includes a plurality of frame members 144 pivotally coupled to a ridge hub 146. In one embodiment, frame members 144 are fabricated of a flexible material, such as a metal, alloy, composite and/or fiberglass material, sufficiently strong to provide adequate support to tent 130. Each frame member 144 extends from ridge hub 146 downwardly to couple with a retaining pin 148 or other suitable coupling member positioned at a corresponding corner area of floor 138. In one embodiment, frame member 144 is slidably positioned within a pocket 150 formed at a transition line or area defined between adjoining walls 136. In a particular embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, pocket 150 is segmented and formed of a plurality of pocket segments 152. In an alternative embodiment, pocket 150 is continuous.

As shown in FIG. 7, in one embodiment tent 130 includes a rain fly 154 that is coupled with respect to main tent structure 132 to provide further protection from harsh environmental elements, including rain and/or snow for example. In one embodiment, rain fly 154 is coupled to collapsible frame assembly 134 using a suitable coupler, such as a guywire, a strap and/or a clip.

In one embodiment, collapsible frame assembly 134 includes spreaders 156 that interconnect frame members 144. In this embodiment, each spreader 156 is slidably coupled at a first end about a corresponding frame member 144. Spreader 156 is coupled to corresponding frame member 144 with a suitable collar 157 such that spreader 156 is slidably movable along a length of frame member 144. As shown in FIG. 7, spreader 156 is coupled at an opposing second end to a central second hub 158. In one embodiment, a spring 159 is positioned between ridge hub 146 and second hub 158 for facilitating moving tent 130 between an erected configuration and a collapsed configuration.

Referring further to FIGS. 7-14, tent 130 includes a solar power generator 160. Solar power generator 160 includes a solar panel 162 that is removably coupled to ridge hub 146. In one embodiment, solar panel 162 is sealingly coupled to rain fly 154, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. Referring to FIGS. 10-12, in one embodiment ridge hub 146 forms a socket 164 including a conducting pin 166. In alternative embodiments, ridge hub 146 includes any suitable electrically conducting member, such as a plug, known to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided. Solar panel 162 forms a protrusion 168 defining a port 170 that is mateable with conducting pin 166 with solar panel 162 coupled to ridge hub 146. In a particular embodiment, protrusion 168 forms a ring or arcuate wall 171 about port 170 that cooperates with an outer surface of ridge hub 146 for facilitating coupling solar panel 162 to ridge hub 146. In this embodiment, solar panel 162 is rotatable with respect to ridge hub 146 with protrusion 168 cooperating with socket 164 to move solar panel 162 between a locked position and an unlocked position with respect to ridge hub 146. In one embodiment, a cap 172 is threadedly coupled to ridge hub 146 to prevent damage to an interior region of ridge hub 146 with solar panel 162 removed from ridge hub 146.

Solar panel 162 is configured to receive solar energy from the sun. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, solar panel 162 includes a frame 173 within which a plurality of photovoltaic cells or modules 174 are mounted and electrically coupled. Each module 174 includes a suitable semiconductor, such as silicon, to convert sunlight into electricity using a suitable process know to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided. Referring to FIGS. 13A-14, a power module 176 is in electrical communication with solar panel 162. Power module 176 is configured to convert the solar energy absorbed by solar panel 162 to electrical energy for supplying the electrical energy to a load device, such as a lighting device and/or a small appliance.

In one embodiment, power module 176 includes a power source 178 configured for facilitating converting the solar energy absorbed by solar panel 162 to electrical energy. Power source 178 is electrically coupled to solar panel 162 using a suitable conductive wire 179 (as shown in FIG. 6). In one embodiment, power source 178 includes a battery 180, such as a deep-cycle battery or other suitable battery known to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided. Battery 180 is configured to store at least a portion of the generated electrical energy. In one embodiment, battery 180 is electrically coupled through conductive wire 179 to conducting pin 166, which is mateable with a solar power output, such as port 170 defined by solar panel 162.

In one embodiment, at least one power output 183 is configured to supply electrical energy to a coupled load device. In a particular embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13A, power output 183 includes at least one power port 184 defined by power module 176. Each power port 184 is positioned on an outer surface of the housing for power module 176 such that a corresponding lighting device 186 is electrically coupled to power port 184. Each power port 184 is electrically coupled to power source 178. In one embodiment, lighting device 186 includes at least one pipe light having a LED indicator that is positioned within a corresponding transparent tube or pipe. In this embodiment, each transparent tube is coupled to main tent structure 132 using at least one clamp and/or stitching. Each pipe light includes a power output end that is electrically coupled to a corresponding power port 184 formed within power output 183. In an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13B, each lighting device 186 is electrically coupled directly or permanently to power source 178.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, power module 176 forms a socket 188 that defines a power port 190 electrically coupled to power source 178. A lighting device 192, as shown in FIG. 14, is removably positioned within socket 188. Lighting device 192 includes a suitable conducting pin (not shown) positionable within power port 190 to electrically couple lighting device 192 to power source 178. In one embodiment, lighting device 192 includes a rechargeable power source, such as one or more rechargeable batteries, configured. to store electrical energy supplied by power source 178. With lighting device 192 positioned within power port 190, lighting device 192 is electrically chargeable to store electrical energy for supplying electrical power to lighting device 192 with lighting device 192 decoupled from power source 178. With lighting device 192 decoupled from power source 178, lighting device 192 is portable for facilitating providing light in areas, as desired.

In one embodiment, power module 176 includes a switch (not shown) that is movable between an “on” position configured to supply electrical energy to at least one power port 184, 190 and an “off” position configured to prevent energy from being supplied to at least one power port 184, 190. In a particular embodiment, lighting device 192 includes a switch (not shown) that is movable between an “on” position, configured to supply energy from the rechargeable batteries contained within lighting device 192 with lighting device 192 decoupled from power module 176, and an “off” position, configured to prevent energy from being supplied to lighting device 192. With lighting device 192 decoupled from power module 176, lighting device 192 can be used as a portable light source.

FIGS. 15-17 show an exemplary collapsible structure 225. In this embodiment, collapsible structure 225 is a gazebo 230 that includes a roof structure 232 formed of a suitable fabric material. Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, roof structure 232 is coupled to a collapsible frame assembly 234 that includes a plurality of posts 236. In one embodiment, each post 236 includes two cooperating support members 238 slidably coupled together. In this embodiment, a locking device 239 includes a connector 240 that cooperates with a slider 241 to couple cooperating support members 238 together. Connector 240 is coupled to a lower end of a first or upper support member 238 and slider 241 is coupled to an upper end of a cooperating second or lower support member 238. With locking device 239 in a locked position, slider 241 is prevented or limited from sliding with respect to connector 240, and with locking device 239 in an unlocked position, slider 241 moves with respect to connector 240 such that the lower support member moves with respect to the upper support member in a telescoping manner to retract within the upper support member 238.

As shown in FIG. 16, collapsible frame assembly 234 includes a plurality of link member assemblies 242 configured to couple adjacent posts 236. In one embodiment, each post 236 is coupled to an adjacent post 236 with a corresponding link member assembly 242. Link member assembly 242 includes a first end 243 coupled to a first post 236 and a second end 244 coupled to an adjacent second post 236. Each link member assembly 242 includes a pair of scissor-like links 245 that are pivotally movable with respect to each other to extend or retract each side of roof structure 232.

Roof structure 232 includes a roof support member 250, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. A plurality of support links 252 are each pivotally coupled between a corresponding post 236 and roof support member 250. In one embodiment, support link 252 includes an upper link member 254 pivotally coupled to roof support member 250 and a lower link member 256 pivotally coupled to post 236.

Referring further to FIGS. 16 and 17, gazebo 230 includes a solar apparatus 260 that is removably coupled to roof support member 250. In one embodiment, solar apparatus 260 includes a solar panel 262, a storage battery (not shown), a circuit board (not shown) and a power output end 264. Further, solar apparatus 260 includes an electric power storage device for facilitating providing power for the storage battery and a plug coupled to the storage device. In this embodiment, an external power and/or a photoconductor device is coupled to the circuit board.

In one embodiment, solar apparatus 260 forms an arcuate or circular ring protrusion 266 on a bottom surface 268 of solar apparatus 260. In this embodiment, protrusion 266 is configured to be threadedly coupled to roof support member 250. It is apparent to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided that protrusion 266 and/or roof support member 250 may form or define any suitable mechanism for removably coupling solar apparatus 260 to roof support member 250. Solar apparatus 260 includes a conductive wire electrically coupling solar panel 262 to a power module 275 of solar apparatus 260. In a particular embodiment, the conductive wire electrically couples solar panel 262 to a power source 276 including a storage battery housed within power module 275. The storage battery of solar apparatus 260 is also electrically coupled to a socket 277. In a particular embodiment, conductive wire 272 extends through roof structure 232 and/or roof support member 250. Socket 277 includes a plurality of power ports (not shown) that are electrically coupled to the conductive wire and extend radially about an outer surface of socket 277. Additionally or alternatively, socket 277 includes a power port (not shown) that is electrically coupled to the conductive wire and extends generally coaxially with roof support member 250 from a bottom surface of socket 277. In one embodiment, a cap (not shown) is threadedly coupled to roof support member 250 to prevent damage to an interior region of roof support member 250 with solar apparatus 260 removed from roof support member 250.

Referring further to FIG. 17, a lighting device 280 is electrically coupled to solar apparatus 260 and configured to receive electrical energy produced by solar apparatus 260 for facilitating providing light to an interior space 282 defined within gazebo 230 (as shown in FIG. 15). In one embodiment, lighting device 280 includes a plurality of pipe lights 284 having a LED indicator that is positioned within a corresponding transparent tube or pipe 285. In this embodiment, each transparent tube 285 is coupled to roof structure 232 using at least one clamp 286 and/or stitching. Each pipe light 284 includes a power output end that is electrically coupled to a corresponding power port formed within socket 277. In an alternative embodiment, a fluorescent light 288 is electrically coupled within the power port formed in the bottom surface of socket 277. It is apparent to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided that any suitable number of lights and/or type of electrical lighting devices can be used with solar apparatus 260 of the present invention for facilitating lighting interior space 282 defined by gazebo 230.

FIGS. 18-24 show an exemplary collapsible structure 325. As shown in FIGS. 18-20, collapsible structure 325 is a gazebo 330 that includes a roof structure 332 formed of a suitable fabric material. Roof structure 332 is coupled to a collapsible frame assembly 334 to form a plurality of side edges 336, as shown in FIG. 18. In one embodiment, gazebo 330 includes a plurality of walls 338 coupled to corresponding side edges 336 and/or collapsible frame assembly 334, as shown in FIG. 19. In a particular embodiment, walls 338 are removable, if desired. In an erected configuration as shown in FIGS. 18-20, gazebo 330 defines an interior space 339 therein. Interior space 339 is large enough to comfortably accommodate one or more people. It is apparent to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided that gazebo 330 may include any suitable number of side edges 336 and/or walls 338 having any suitable size and/or shape. Gazebo 330 is movable from the erected configuration, as shown in FIGS. 18-20, to a collapsed configuration, as shown in FIG. 21, for facilitating transporting and/or storing gazebo 330.

Referring further to FIGS. 18-21, collapsible frame assembly 334 includes a plurality of posts 344 fabricated of a suitable material, such as a metal, alloy, composite and/or fiberglass material, sufficiently strong to provide adequate support to gazebo 330. In one embodiment, each post 344 includes two cooperating support members slidably coupled together. In this embodiment, a locking device 348 includes a connector 350 that cooperates with a slider 351 to couple cooperating support members together. Connector 350 is coupled to a lower end of a first or upper support member 346 and slider 351 is coupled to an upper end of a cooperating second or lower support member 347. With locking device 348 in a locked position, slider 351 is prevented or limited from sliding with respect to connector 350. With locking device 348 in an unlocked position, slider 351 moves with respect to connector 350 such that second support member 347 moves with respect to first support member 346 in a telescoping manner to retract within first support member 346.

Referring to FIG. 18, collapsible frame assembly 334 includes four posts 344 each coupled to adjacent posts 344. In one embodiment, each post 344 is coupled to an adjacent post 344 with a corresponding link member assembly 352. Link member assembly 352 includes a first end 353 coupled to a first post 344 and an opposing second end 354 coupled an adjacent second post 344. Each link member assembly 352 includes a pair of scissor-like links 356 that are pivotally movable with respect to each other to extend or retract each side 358 of roof structure 332.

Roof structure 332 includes a roof support member 360. A plurality of support links 362 are each pivotally coupled between a corresponding post 344 and roof support member 360. In one embodiment, support link 362 includes an upper link member 364 pivotally coupled to roof support member 360 and a lower link member 366 pivotally coupled to post 344.

In one embodiment, gazebo 330 includes a solar power generator that is removably coupled to roof support member 360. In one embodiment, the solar apparatus includes a solar panel, a storage battery, a circuit board and a power output end. Further, the solar apparatus includes an electric power storage device, such as a suitable storage battery, and a plug coupled to the electric power storage device. In this embodiment, an external power and/or a photoconductor device is coupled to the circuit board.

Referring further to FIGS. 20-23, in one embodiment gazebo 330 includes a solar power generator 370. Solar power generator 370 includes a solar panel 372 that is removably coupled to a hub 374, which is coupled to or integrated with roof support member 360. As shown in FIG. 23, in one embodiment hub 374 forms a socket 376 that includes a conducting pin 378. In alternative embodiments, hub 374 includes any suitable electrically conducting member, such as a plug, known to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided. Solar panel 372 forms a protrusion 379 defining a port 380 that is mateable with conducting pin 378 with solar panel 372 coupled to hub 374. In a particular embodiment, protrusion 379 forms a ring or arcuate wall 381 about port 380 that cooperates with an inner surface of hub 374 for facilitating coupling solar panel 372 to hub 374. In this embodiment, solar panel 372 is rotatable with respect to hub 374 with protrusion 379 cooperating with socket 376 to move solar panel 372 between a locked position and an unlocked position with respect to hub 374. In one embodiment, a cap (not shown) is coupled to hub 374 to prevent or limit damage to an interior region of hub 374 with solar panel 372 removed from hub 374.

Solar panel 372 is configured to receive solar energy from the sun. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 22, solar panel 372 includes a frame 382 within which a plurality of photovoltaic cells or modules 383 are mounted and electrically coupled. Each module 383 includes a suitable semiconductor, such as silicon, to convert sunlight into electricity using a suitable process know to those. skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided. Referring to FIG. 20, a power module 384 is electrically coupled with solar panel 372. Power module 384 is configured to convert the solar energy absorbed by solar panel 372 to electrical energy for supplying the electrical energy to a load device, such as a lighting device and/or a small appliance.

In one embodiment, power module 384 includes a power source 385 configured for facilitating converting the solar energy absorbed by solar panel 372 to electrical energy. Power source 385 is electrically coupled to solar panel 372 using a suitable conductive wire (not shown). In one embodiment, power source 385 includes a battery, such as a deep-cycle battery or other suitable battery known to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided. The battery is configured to store at least a portion of the generated electrical energy. In one embodiment, the battery is electrically coupled through the conductive wire to conducting pin 378, which is mateable with a solar power output, such as port 380 defined by solar panel 372.

In one embodiment, solar panel 372 is rotatably coupled to roof support member 360. Solar panel 372 is electrically coupled to power module 384 of solar power generator 370. In a particular embodiment, solar panel 372 is electrically coupled to power source 385 including a storage battery housed within power module 384. The storage battery of solar power generator 370 is also electrically coupled to a socket 386. In a particular embodiment, a conductive wire extends through roof structure 332 and/or roof support member 360 to couple solar panel 372 to power source 385. Socket 386 includes a plurality of power ports (not shown) that are electrically coupled to the conductive wire and extend radially about an outer surface of socket 386. Additionally or alternatively, socket 386 includes a power port (not shown) that is electrically coupled to the conductive wire and extends generally coaxially with roof support member 360 from a bottom surface of socket 386.

Referring further to FIG. 20, a lighting device 390 is electrically coupled to solar power generator 370 and configured to receive electrical energy produced by solar power generator 370 for facilitating providing light to interior space 339 defined within gazebo 330. In one embodiment, lighting device 390 includes a plurality of pipe lights 394 having a LED indicator that is positioned within a corresponding transparent tube or pipe. In this embodiment, each transparent tube is coupled to roof structure 332 using a suitable coupling member, such as a clamp and/or a strap. Each pipe light 394 includes a power output end that is electrically coupled to a corresponding power port formed within socket 386. In an alternative embodiment, a light, such as a fluorescent light (not shown), is electrically coupled within the power port formed in the bottom surface of socket 386. It is apparent to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided that any suitable number of lights and/or type of electrical lighting devices can be used with solar power generator 370 of the present invention for facilitating illuminating interior space 339 defined by gazebo 330.

In one embodiment, gazebo 330 is stored within a storage bag 400 in the collapsed configuration, as shown in FIG. 24. Storage bag 400 is made of any suitably durable material, such as a fabric material, and has any suitable size and/or configuration for facilitating storing gazebo 330 to prevent or limit undesirable exposure to environmental conditions when gazebo 330 is not being used. As shown in FIG. 24, storage bag 400 forms a pocket 402 within which solar power generator 370 is stored. In a particular embodiment, solar power generator 370 is stored within a case 404 that is positionable within pocket 402 to further protect solar power generator 370 from undesirable exposure to environmental conditions and/or contact with items that may damage the components of solar power generator 370.

The above-described apparatus and method facilitate illuminating an interior space defined by a collapsible structure, such as a tent or a gazebo. More specifically, the apparatus and method utilize photovoltaic principles to generate electrical energy from solar power obtained from the sun. As a result, in one embodiment electrical energy in the form of light is provided in an efficient, environmentally conscience and cost-effective manner.

Exemplary embodiments of an apparatus and method for providing a light source for facilitating lighting an interior space defined by a collapsible structure are described above in detail. The apparatus and method are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but rather, components of the apparatus and/or steps of the method may be utilized independently and separately from other components and/or steps described herein. Further, the described apparatus components and/or method steps can also be defined in, or used in combination with, other apparatus and/or methods, and are not limited to practice with only the apparatus and method as described herein.

While the invention has been described in terms of various specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A solar power generator for a structure having a collapsible frame assembly, said solar power generator comprising:

a solar panel removably coupled to the collapsible frame assembly, said solar panel configured to absorb solar energy from the sun;

a power module electrically coupled to said solar panel, said power module including a power source configured to convert the solar energy absorbed by said solar panel to electrical energy; and

at least one power output electrically coupled to said power source and configured to supply electrical energy to a coupled load device.

2. A solar power generator in accordance with claim 1 wherein the coupled load device comprises at least one lighting device removably coupled to said power source.

3. A solar power generator in accordance with claim 1 wherein said at least one power output comprises a plurality of power ports defined by said power module, each said power port electrically coupled to said power source.

4. A solar power generator in accordance with claim 3 further comprising a plurality of lighting devices, each said lighting device electrically coupled to a corresponding power port.

5. A solar power generator in accordance with claim 1 wherein said collapsible frame assembly further comprises:

a hub configured to removably couple said solar panel thereto; and

a plurality of frame members pivotally coupled to said hub, said plurality of frame members at least partially forming said collapsible frame assembly.

6. A solar power generator in accordance with claim 1 further comprising a conductive wire electrically coupling said solar panel to said power source.

7. A solar power generator in accordance with claim 1 wherein said power source further comprises a battery configured to store at least a portion of the converted electrical energy.

8. A solar power generator in accordance with claim 1 wherein said power module further comprises a socket defining one power port of said plurality of power ports, and a lighting device removably positioned within said socket, said lighting device including a conducting pin electrically coupled to said power outlet with the lighting device positioned within said socket.

9. A solar power generator in accordance with claim 8 wherein, with said lighting device positioned within said socket, said lighting device electrically chargeable to store a quantity of electrical energy.

10. A solar power generator in accordance with claim 1 wherein said lighting device further comprises a rechargeable battery configured to store electrical energy supplied by said power source.

11. A solar power generator in accordance with claim 1 wherein said power module further comprising a switch movable between an on position configured to supply energy to said plurality of power ports and an off position configured to prevent energy from being supplied to said plurality of power ports.

12. A solar power generator in accordance with claim 1 wherein said power module further comprises a conducting pin electrically coupled to a battery, said conducting pin mateable with a solar power output defined by said solar panel.

13. A solar power generator in accordance with claim 1 wherein said power module forms a socket and said solar panel forms a plug removably electrically coupled to said socket.

14. A solar power generator in accordance with claim 1 wherein said solar panel is rotatable with respect to said hub between a locked position and an unlocked position.

15. A solar power generator in accordance with claim 1 wherein the coupled load device comprises at least one lighting device directly coupled to said power source.

16. A solar tent comprising:

a hub;

a solar panel removably coupled to said hub, said solar panel configured to absorb solar energy from the sun;

a power module electrically coupled to said solar panel, said power module configured to convert the solar energy absorbed by said solar panel to electrical energy, said power module defining at least one first power port positioned about an outer housing of said power module and electrically coupled to said power source.

17. A solar tent in accordance with claim 16 further comprising at least one first light source, said at least one first light source removably electrically coupled to a corresponding power port of said at least one first power port, each said first light source configured to receive electrical energy from said power module.

18. A solar tent in accordance with claim 16 further comprising:

a socket defining a second power port electrically coupled to said power module; and

a second light source removably positioned within said socket, said second light source including a conducting pin positioned within said power port for electrically coupling said second light source to said power module.

19. A solar tent in accordance with claim 18 wherein said second light source further comprises a rechargeable battery configured to store electrical energy supplied by said power module.

20. A solar tent in accordance with claim 16 wherein said power module further comprises a power source having a battery configured to store at least a portion of the converted electrical energy.

21. A solar tent in accordance with claim 16 wherein said at least one first light source further comprises one of a LED indicator, a rainbow decoration light, a fluorescent light and a lamp.

22. A solar gazebo comprising:

a hub;

a solar panel removably coupled to said hub, said solar panel configured to absorb solar energy from the sun;

a power module electrically coupled to said solar panel, said power module configured to convert the solar energy absorbed by said solar panel to electrical energy, said power module defining at least one first power port positioned about an outer housing of said power module and electrically coupled to said power source.

23. A solar gazebo in accordance with claim 22 further comprising at least one first light source, said at least one first light source removably electrically coupled to a corresponding power port of said at least one first power port, each said first light source configured to receive electrical energy from said power module.

24. A method for providing energy to an interior space defined by a collapsible structure, said method comprising:

providing a collapsible structure including a hub and a plurality of frame members each pivotally coupled to the hub, the plurality of frame members at least partially forming a collapsible frame assembly of the collapsible structure;

removably coupling a solar power generator to the collapsible structure, the solar power generator including a solar panel removably coupled to the hub and configured to absorb solar energy from the sun;

electrically coupling a power module to the solar panel, the power module configured to convert the solar energy absorbed by the solar panel to electrical energy.

25. A method in accordance with claim 24 further comprising supplying at least a portion of the electrical energy to at least one lighting source electrically coupled to the power module, the at least one lighting source configured to receive the electrical energy and emit light.