Umbrella with offset handle

Abstract

An umbrella that includes a plurality of support members for supporting a canopy, and a pivot assembly coupled with each of the support members allowing the support members to move between an open position and a collapsed position. The plurality of support members define an outer perimeter of the umbrella. A handle engages one of the plurality of support rods at the outer perimeter offset from a center of the umbrella. A shoulder support may be coupled to one of the support members.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60 / 666,986, filed Mar. 31, 2005.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to umbrellas, and more particularly, to an umbrella with an offset handle that provides greater coverage and wind resistance while still allowing for full visibility. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] The word “umbrella” comes from the Latin root word “umbra,” meaning shade or shadow. Umbrellas, also known as a parasols, were originally used to provide shade from sunlight. Umbrellas are commonly used by individuals as shelters from rain, snow and other forms of precipitation. [0004] An umbrella is a device for protection from the weather consisting of a collapsible, usually circular canopy mounted on a central rod. Umbrellas can be made by stretching a fabric or other material over a frame. Early umbrellas were developed in Europe and made of wood or whalebone and covered with alpaca or oiled...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

While umbrellas of various shapes and sizes with numerous utilities have been developed over the years, prior art umbrellas have not solved the problems of providing full coverage to the user and not inverting in windy conditions.

Umbrellas are often challenging to control, difficult to grip and tricky to balance.

One of the major limitations of traditional umbrellas is their performance in the wind.

When the wind catches them, the typical umbrella design will invert and even break.

When an umbrella inverts, the poles often stick through the canopy, which can create a dangerous situation in which the user or a passerby can become injured by the poles extending outside the canvas.

In windy conditions, umbrella inversion can happen often and cause the user to become wet from rain and frustrated.

Controlling the umbrella is even more difficult if the user is carrying other items or packages.

Prior art umbrellas often provide inadequate

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