Collapsible tent device

Claim 1

In a collapsible tent device for use on a vehicle top, a first frame member adapted for mounting onto the vehicle, a second frame member mounted along a lengthwise lateral edge of said first frame member for pivotal movement between open and closed positions, a weather-proof sheet affixed along the inner mating edges of said first and second frame members, said frame members in an open position forming an essentially horizontal platform extending outwardly from the top of the vehicle with said sheet in a loose state, said platform including a substantial flat bed support portion extending lengthwise between said first and second frame members, said frame members further forming a box-like weather-proof enclosure in a closed position with said sheet being drawn taut to form a protective wall against the weather along the length of the pivotal lateral edge, a tent cover secured to said first and second frame members, at least one support element pivotally mounted to either frame member, cable means extending between and secured to the respective outer portions of each of said frame members and secured to the outer portion of said support element, said cable means being loose and resting along with said support element between said frame members in said box-like enclosure, said cable means being automatically drawn taut and causing the rotation of said support element to an upright position and moving said tent cover to a fully opened position in response to pivotal movement of said second frame member, said cable means having sufficient strength to support the outer edge of said second member without auxiliary bracing.